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0 In Book Review/ Faith/ Memories/ Motherhood

From Assignment to Revelation: Discovering God’s Love

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As a college freshman, my first assignment was to write a paper on any ‘classic’ book. Innocently, I asked my English professor, “Can I write my paper on the Bible?” To me, there was no more classic book than the Bible.

“Yes,” my professor replied, “but the Bible is a long book with many different topics. Choose one topic.”

I chose LOVE—not realizing how deep, complex, and transformative that theme would prove to be.

Though I had experienced God’s love throughout my life, pausing to study it intentionally was a powerful and eye-opening journey. As Ann Voskamp writes in One Thousand Gifts, “The only thing that can change us, the world, is this – all His love.”

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“The only thing that can change us, the world, is this – all His love.” – Ann Voscamp, 1000 gifts

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I’ve hesitated to write this post for two reasons:

First, I can’t find my original college paper—most likely tucked away on a long-forgotten floppy disk buried in a box somewhere in my basement.

Second, trying to capture the fullness of God’s love in a single post feels a bit like trying to explain the ocean with just one drop of water.

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I remember the college assignment forcing me to dig into God’s Word and discover what it says about His love. The more I studied, the more my heart filled with His goodness and awe! While other freshmen sought significance in temporary fixes, I found lasting significance within the pages of my Bible. I grew in my awareness of being unconditionally loved by the Creator of the Universe. I was His beloved daughter.

 

‘See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!’ 1 John 3:1

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The Creator of the universe loves you exactly as you are, with all your faults and inadequacies—He thinks you are worthy of love!

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Becoming a mom deepened my understanding of God’s love. Having children opens up a new kind of love: a sacrificial love. I had no idea I could love someone who requires so much of me. This made me see, at a deeper level, how much God loves me. He gave everything for me, even His life.

I can see how He still loves me when I mess up because I love my children that way. I’m disappointed when they make wrong choices because I know it hurts them. When they hurt, I hurt. But my love for them doesn’t change.

Although I understood God’s love more after becoming a mother, my love for my children doesn’t compare to God’s love for us. God’s love transcends human love. It is unconditional—not based on feelings or actions. He doesn’t love us because we’re lovable or because we make Him feel good; He loves us because He is love.

Take a minute and learn from your children. Matthew 11:25 says: 

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“At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.’”

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Children never turn down a gift. When you give a child something, they receive it immediately, with no questions asked! They don’t wonder if they’ve earned it or if they deserve it. They just take it. We must learn from our children and receive God’s love like that. It’s a gift!

If you’ve never received the GIFT of God’s love, stop now and tell God that you want to know Him and receive His love!

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Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us:

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”

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God’s not in love with a future version of you; He is in love with you just as you are.

If you have difficulty accepting or understanding God’s love, pray Ephesians 3:17-19 over yourself right now, and again each morning:

“I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

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Begin to search the Scriptures for what it says about love. Read each verse and let the truth of God’s Word fill your heart with comfort, confidence, peace, joy and love.

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“I have loved you with an everlasting love;    I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.” Jeremiah 31:3

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God desperately wants you to rest in His love. He wants you to live your life knowing you are loved.

Close your eyes and imagine this…

Imagine yourself curled up in your Father’s lap. 

Listen to Him tell you that He loves you.  

Bask in the safety of His love.

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Now, go about your day knowing you are loved and showing that love to each person you encounter.

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Questions for further study:

  • How does the Bible describe God’s love, and what are some key scriptures that illustrate its depth and nature?

  • In what ways can we practically experience and share God’s love in our daily lives?

  • How does understanding God’s unconditional love change our perspective on self-worth and identity?

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Here are some “next steps” you can take after reading this post to further explore and experience the love of God:

  1. Daily Scripture Reading: Commit to reading a portion of the Bible each day, focusing on passages that speak about God’s love. Consider starting with the Gospel of John, 1 John, and Psalms.

  2. Prayer and Meditation: Spend time in prayer, asking God to help you understand and feel His love more deeply. Meditate on key verses about God’s love, such as Ephesians 3:17-19 and 1 John 4:9-10

  3. Join a Study Group: Find or start a Bible study group focused on exploring the love of God. Discussing with others can provide new insights and deepen your understanding.

  4. Read Further: Read books on the love of God, such as “The Ragamuffin Gospel” by Brennan Manning, “The Pursuit of God” by A.W. Tozer, or “What’s God Really Like” by SJ Hill.

  5. Serve Others: Put God’s love into action by serving others in your community. Volunteer at a local charity, help a neighbor in need, or participate in a church outreach program.

  6. Reflect and Journal: Keep a journal to reflect on your journey of understanding God’s love. Write down your thoughts, prayers, and any revelations you receive during your study and meditation.

  7. Practice Gratitude: Make a daily habit of thanking God for His love and the ways you experience it in your life. Gratitude can help reinforce your awareness of His love and presence.

 

Have you encountered God’s Great Love for you?  If so, leave me a comment and share how that has impacted you? (Leave a comment by clicking on the little comment graphic by the title of this post)

Thanks for reading and please subscribe so you don’t miss a post.

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Here’s a song about God’s love for you.

2 In Book Review/ Product Recommendations

The ONE book you should read this year!

If you only read ONE book in 2019, I recommend …

The one book you should read this year!


One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voscamp was truly a GIFT to me. It was the most beautifully written book I’ve ever read – and so full of truth and light. The book made me cry, laugh, think, and smile.

When I read a book, I underline all my favorite parts. If it’s a book that has stuff I that I don’t want to forget, I enter everything I’ve underlined into my computer. For this book, I had SIX TYPED pages of notes and quotes from the book! Six pages of words from the book that I didn’t want to forget. That’s a record!

This is a book I’ll come back to over and over. I’m also going to read the study guide that goes with this book:

The premise of One Thousand Gifts is about how to find gratitude in the mundane days of life. Finding gratitude leads to a full, joy-filled life.

Here are some quotes from the book:

It’s easy to speak the language of discontentment, self-condemnation, and dissatisfaction…but it’s worth learning how to speak a new language.

Why not let ALL life be penetrated by JOY and gratitude!?

Do yourself a favor and READ THIS BOOK!

Have you read One Thousand Gifts? If so…leave me a comment. Also, if you have a book I MUST read this year, let me know!

Have you read One Thousand Gifts? If so…leave me a comment. Also, if you have a book I MUST read this year, let me know!

Have you read One Thousand Gifts? If so…leave me a comment. Also, if you have a book I MUST read this year, let me know!

If you’d like to read reviews of all 40 books I read last year, click here.

*Affiliate link in post

2 In Book Review

2018 Book Reviews and Recommendations

 

Scroll to the bottom to read what I think are the BEST BOOKS of 2018!

40 books I’ve read in 2018:

1. Money-making mom – (4/5) This book had some different ideas about how a mom can earn some extra money while raising kids. Written by Crystal Paine who created MoneySavingMom.com.

2. Girl Wash your face by Rachel Hollis – (4/5) Read my review by clicking here.

3. Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver (5/5) – Fascinating book, and I highly recommend it. Read my full review by clicking here.

4. Mother & Son: The Respect Effect by Emerson Eggerichs. (5/5)  Read my review by clicking here.

5. Conversations with a Billionaire by Ted Egly (5/5) Awesome book! Get a glimpse into this book by clicking here.

6. An American Marriage by Tayari Jones (3/5) Read my review here.

7. The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah (3/5) – Read my review here.

8. Necessary Endings by Dr. Henry Cloud (5/5) – Loved this book and HIGHLY recommend it if you are going through any transitions. Read my full review here.

9. Breathing In, Breathing out by Ralph Fletcher (4/5) – Read my review here.

10. Love Does by Bob Goff (5/5)  – I read this a couple years ago, and downloaded the audiobook to hear the author read it! This is one of my favorite books ever.

11. Everybody Always by Bob Goff 5/5 (Review here)

12. Wise Woman Abides from The Help Club for Moms – 5/5  – Fall Bible Study book. Click here to read an excerpt.  My favorite Bible study for women.

13. Wise Woman Stays from The Help Club for Moms 5/5

14. Wise Woman Loves from The Help Club for Moms – 5/5

15. Fervent by Priscilla Shirer – (5/5)  read my review here.


16. Indescribable by Louie Giglio – (5/5) We aren’t finished yet, but the kids and I love this Devotional Book for Kids. Read my review here.

17. My Bible – (5/5) I did not read the ENTIRE Bible this year, it’s just something I read from most days.

18. Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson – (5/5) Great Book!! Read my review here.


19. Adamant: Finding Truth in a Universe of Opinions by Lisa Bevere – (4/5) Good book full of truth.

20. Volunteer Revolution by Bill Hybels (2nd reading) (5/5) A great book to read if you work with volunteers. Read my review here.

21. Family Ministry Essentials– (4/5) Great book for anyone serving in children, family, or student ministry. Review here.

22. Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine – (3/5) There were some sweet parts to the story, but overall sad.

23. Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris – (4/5) Funny stories from David’s life. It has some inappropriate parts (TMI).

24. Volunteer Engagement 2.0 – (2/5) Skimmed this book and because it’s more of a textbook and not one I’d read for “enjoyment.”

25. Amy Carmichael: Rescuer of Precious Gems – (5/5) Awesome book about an incredible missionary! Great gift for a high school student.

26. Hallelujah Anyway by Anne Lamott – (4/5) Anne is an entertaining writer – good book!

27.  Encountering our Wild God by Kim Meeder – (5/5) This book is full of fascinating stories of what God has done in and through people. Loved it!

28. Fully Alive by Ken Davis (4/5) – Funny and interesting. Feels like it’s written for an older age group, but overall enjoyable.

29. The Path between Us by Suzanne Stabile – (3/5) Enneagram book. How to have a relationship with people of different personalities. I listened to the audiobook and think it was too much info to ‘listen to.’ I’d probably give it a higher rating if I’d read the book.

30. 5 Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman (5/5) I’ve read this a long time ago but this is one you could keep coming back to. The book discusses different ways our children receive love and how to provide that love.

31. What’s God Really Like? by SJ Hill (5/5) Outstanding book on our amazing God and his incredible love for YOU! This book reminded me of all the ways God SHOWS his love for me! Wow, so so good.  READ THIS BOOK!

32. Of Mess & Moxie – 4/5 Entertaining and FUN to read with lots of truth nuggets.

33. Love Does for Kids -(5/5) I LOVED the grown-up version of this book, so I was really excited to get this and read it to my kids. It’s a great book, but I may have enjoyed it more than the kids. I’m still trying to figure out how to get four boys to sit and listen. The book is FULL of great stories, and each connects with a lesson from the Bible.

34.  Strong mothers, strong sons by Dr. Meg Meeker (5/5) A book that every single mother of sons should read. Absolutely fantastic. So many scenarios with recommendations of what is normal and how to respond, what to do, etc. Really good for me in a house full of boys! I’ll be reading this again in two years when I have a teenager. This would make a great gift for the mother of pre-teens or teens.

35. The Middle Place (3/5) – This book came recommended so I had high expectations. I usually enjoy memoirs, but this book did not deliver. I felt like it was more of a letter to her own family and too personal. The book’s title: “The Middle Place” refers to being in that place of raising children and still being someone’s child. I skipped through a few parts and kept hoping it would get better. It didn’t.


36. Speak Life by Brady Boyd- (5/5) An amazing book about the power in our words. My review here.

37. The Remarkable Ordinary  – (3/5) I downloaded this audiobook because of the interesting title. There were some enjoyable parts to the book, but overall, I wasn’t crazy about it.

38. Unsupermommy by Maggie Combs (5/5) – A book every single mom should read. She speaks truth. LOVED IT and plan to give a few as gifts!

39. Cultivate by Lara Casey (3/5) – About “cultivating” the life you want. Decent book but the book was a little flat for me. However, I was “listening” to this book and may have been distracted. It has great reviews on Amazon.


40. One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voscamp – 5/5 This is one of my TOP FIVE books of the year! Ann is probably one of the most gifted writers I’ve ever read. This is a book on the power of gratitude. This would be a PHENOMENAL gift for any person you know.

Of the 40 books listed above, here are my Top 8 Favorite Books of 2018:

  1. One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voscamp – An incredibly well-written book that reminds the readers of how gratitude can positively change your life.
  2. UnSuperMommy by Maggie Combs – This would make a great gift for any new moms or moms with young children.
  3. What’s God Really Like? by SJ Hill – LOVED this book. It would make a good gift for anyone wanting to be reminded of how GOOD our God really is!
  4. Conversations with a Billionaire by Ted W Egly – I LOVED this book and think it would be a great gift for anyone needing a little inspiration.
  5. Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver – So interesting. A great gift for any gardener or foodie!
  6. Love Does by Bob Goff
  7. Speak Life by Brady Boyd
  8. Strong mothers, strong sons by Dr. Meg Meeker

(Books above are affiliate links which means if you choose to purchase one, I may make a small commission without any additional cost to you.)

What were your favorite books this year? Leave me a comment!

4 In Book Review/ Saving money

What I’ve been Reading – Book Reviews and Recommendations!

(Books listed below have affiliate links. If you choose to purchase one, I will earn a small commission without any extra cost to you.)

You guys….I’m SOOOO excited about discovering the free audio book app called HOOPLA!!!

Have you heard of it?

If you download the Hoopla App and plug in your library card info, you can check out FIVE free audiobooks every month!  I have a list a mile long of books that I want to read but don’t get enough time to SIT and READ! NOW I can listen to FIVE audiobooks each month! I’m so happy about this!  Some people “binge watch” on Netflix … well, I ‘binge listen” on my Hoopla app. I listen in the car, while I’m doing housework, out on a walk or run, or whenever I can squeeze in a couple of minutes to LISTEN! I LOVE IT!

Here’s what I’ve been reading and listening to:

 

Girl, wash your face by Rachel Hollis

This book has been on my “To READ” list and when I got the Hoopla App, it was the first book I downloaded. The audiobook is read by the author herself. Rachel Hollis tells about her life in an honest yet uplifting, funny way. It’s her memoir about a small town girl who became a wife, mom to 4 kids, writer, speaker, and media mogul! Really enjoyed this! 4.5 out of 5 stars

 

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver

Two people said this book was their favorite, so I decided to check it out and WOW, it was fascinating!  It was a true story about a family who lived for a year off of what they could grow or buy locally. I learned so much about the food we eat. I’m so glad I read (by read I mean “listened to”) this and it’s slowly changing the way I buy and eat food. 5 out of 5 stars – I HIGHLY recommend you ‘listen to’ or read this as well!

 

Mother & Son: The Respect Effect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs

Did you know that if men had to choose between love and respect, 3 out of 4 would choose respect?!

I grew up in a household of full of women, so feeling ‘loved’ took precedence over feeling ‘respected.’ Now that I’m in a household full of men, I thought it would be a good idea to learn a little more about the ‘respect’ effect!

This book helped me understand the “language” men speak, as well as how they think. The book teaches moms how to speak in a way that boys will listen.

For instance, one simple thing I learned is to, when appropriate, switch out the word “love” for “respect.” Instead of saying, “I love how you…” say “I respect how you…”

Dr. Eggerichs also takes us back to the basics of our role as mothers with the word GUIDE.

G – Give

Give so a child’s basic needs are met.

U – Understand

Understand our children so they are not provoked or exasperated.

I – Instruct

Instruct our children so they can know and apply God’s wisdom.

D – Discipline

Discipline, so your child can correct wrong choices.

E – Encourage

Encourage, so your child can courageously develop God-given gifts.

S- Supplicate/pray

Supplicate and pray so your child can experience God‘s touch.

The book shares tons of real-life scenarios so that we can learn how to apply information presented in this book! I really enjoyed it and would recommend it for boymoms.

 

Conversations with a Billionaire , by Ted Egly – I wrote my thoughts on this book here. I highly recommend it.

 

An American Marriage, by Tayari Jones – Expectations were very high for this Oprah’s Book Club selection, but I didn’t love it. It tells the story about a married couple, Roy and Celestial. They have been married for about a year and a half when Roy gets falsely accused of a crime and goes to prison. They write letters and continue to make their marriage work as a lawyer tries to get the charges dropped. Roy ends up getting released after serving 5 years and he is excited to get back home to his wife and attempt to put his life back together. However, things don’t go as planned. This book shows how lives are impacted from injustice in our justice system and how time can change everything. Well written and interesting, but not a favorite. I’d give it 3 out of 5 stars.

 

The Great Alone, by Kristin Hannah – I had to skip over many pages to get through this LONG and sad story…I kept waiting for something good to happen. It follows the life of a girl and parents. The father had been in the Vietnam War and came home with PTSD. You see how that negatively impacts his life and the lives of his wife and daughter. It’s really well written, but I don’t like to read really sad stories, so if you are like me, I wouldn’t recommend it.

 

What’s God Really Like? Unique insight into His fascinating personality, By SJ Hill

This summer, during a visit to Indiana, my Uncle Steve (SJ Hill) gave me a copy of his newest book. The title was intriguing and I was looking forward to seeing what this book was about. I’m not finished yet, but I’m REALLY enjoying it! Every page makes me smile. It’s a refreshing and uplifting book.

 

Breathing in, Breathing out: Keeping a writer’s notebook, by Ralph Fletcher

My Aunt Michelle sent me this book for my birthday and I read it over the summer but forgot to talk about it! I LOVED it! It’s based on the idea that if you want to be a good writer, you need to have an opportunity to “Breathe in” your ideas, thoughts, quotes, stories, observations, lists, etc. Then, you can “Breathe out” what you’ve captured into a blog post, article, book, etc.

If you are a writer, I HIGHLY recommend you read this book. My aunt had underlined portions and made notes, so I enjoyed that as well! I find it fun to read books ‘second hand.’

 

Have you read any of these books or plan to read one! Leave me a comment by clicking on the little box by the TITLE of this post! Thanks for reading what I’ve been reading!

0 In Book Review

A peek into “Conversations with a Billionaire”

Before I start a new book, sometimes I’ll just skim it or read a few pages to see if it’s worth my time or money!  If you are like ME, you are in luck. I’m giving you a little glimpse into my husband’s book, Conversations with a Billionaire.

I read the ‘rough draft’ of each chapter at least once as he was writing the book. I did some editing and gave feedback.

However, reading the published book from front to back was amazing!  The book is truly inspiring.  I underlined sections, put STARS, wrote notes. I loved it. I’m sure part of the love for this book is because the author is my husband and I am proud of him, but mostly I loved it because it’s just that GOOD. FULL of great stories, inspiration, and truth.

Here’s a little peek into a section of Conversations with a Billionaire, by Ted Egly:

Because…YOU are worth it

… Imagine if I were handing you a one hundred dollar bill. Would you take it? I’m sure you would. But first, let me illustrate an invaluable principle.

I am going to crumple the bill up. Do you still want it? I’m sure you do!

Well, next I take that $100 and drop it on the ground and begin to grind it into the floor with my shoe. Now with it all crumpled and dirty, I hold it out to you. Do you still want it? I’m suspecting that you do!

No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. It was still worth one hundred dollars.

Here’s the beautiful reality. Many times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. We feel as though we are worthless. But no matter what has happened or what will happen, we will never lose our value, especially in the eyes of the Divine. Dirty or clean, crumpled or finely creased, we are still priceless to Him.

Our desire for approval can truly be met only by receiving God’s acceptance and approval of us.

In the ancient text etched by the apostle Paul, these inspiring words were written, “YOU are God’s masterpiece.” Our desire for approval can truly be met only by receiving God’s acceptance and approval of us.

No Spare Parts

I believe your life is a gift. You are on purpose. You have divine significance. You matter in life.

Years ago, when my first son, George, was born, we purchased a closet cabinet from IKEA for his clothes. When we got it home and opened up the box – we spread the various parts all over the floor. There were screws, bolts, nails, plugs, wood, and more! I quickly realized that I was in way over my head. Reading through the directions and reviewing the diagrams, I noticed at the top were the three worst words ever written in the existence of man: SOME ASSEMBLY REQUIRED.

Those three words strike fear into dads all around the world – even to this day.

As I finished putting the cabinet together, I found that I had several pieces left (three screws, four nails, three washers, and an acrylic piece that said “important” on it). I had a bunch of spare parts left over!

Here’s the deal.

There was a voice in my soul, in that moment, whispering oh so gently, as I stared at the many spare parts. (May you not forget this truth.) The still small voice said,

“YOU are not a spare part. The people you come in contact with every day are not spare parts. You have a purpose. You have a destiny.”

May you never forget that you are on purpose. You have significance. You matter. You are not a spare part.

– Excerpt from Conversations with a Billionaire by Ted Egly –

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Isn’t that beautiful! I loved it and hope you do too! If there is someone you know who could benefit from this message, would you send this blog post to them? Also, we’d love for you to pick up a copy of his book by clicking here!

 

The book has received all 5-star reviews on Amazon, and here are some of the comments:

 

Inspired as soon as I started to read, could not put it down. – Anonymous

 

This book made a difference in my life. I just absolutely loved it. From the first page, I felt like this book was written for me. It was like someone looked into my brain and heart and addressed the worries, the gremlins, the fears inside me. I loved the way the book went back and forth between short insights into the Billionaire’s life, the author’s own experiences, and his suggestions for how to live a better life by making small adjustments into how I approach life. After I read the last page and closed the book, I felt freer and hopeful. Like I could tackle more and BE more in my life and for those I love. Since reading it the first time, I find myself picking it up, opening to a random page, reading for a few moments and being inspired. I hope you give this book a try – I promise you’ll be grateful you did. – Corey

 

This book is dynamic! A fantastic book filled with great life insights and thought provoking questions that lead me to seriously evaluate where I’m at today personally, professionally and spiritually. It’s forced me to get intentional about where I go from here and how I intend to get there. Dreaming and hoping isn’t enough. A call to action is paramount. And this book lays out the case for just how important that call is for each and everyone of us! I can’t help but feel empowered as I come away from reading this book. I have a destiny in life and it’s largely determined by me! The author layed out a compelling case challenging me to get started down my path to growth, learning and difference-making. The pages breathed life into my dreams and aspirations. It’s my time to act. Thank you Ted!  –Mark

 

A thought-provoking look at the ways we can change our mindset and be inspired toward growth. I loved it. Reading the billionaire’s perspective intertwined with author’s own experiences on things like resiliency, community and bravery are what make this book uplifting and truly special. – Catherine

 

Loved it! Inspirational from start to finish! The positive energy created by Ted’s book has motivated me to make changes in both my personal and professional life. Time to get moving! – Dan

 

This is such an inspirational and helpful book. There is no one more qualified than Ted to write a book about leadership and personal growth. The lessons he shares are not only valuable for professionals but also for anyone raising a family in our world today. I especially like the challenges he presents in Chapter 8. Everyone can benefit from those. This book is practical and easy to read. – Pamela

 

Don’t read this book…. Unless you are ready to change your life and your world! There were so many times while reading this book that I recognized and reflected on my inaction and invisibility; my life of monotony and compliance. I’ve gotten to mid-life and see the repetition of my days. Waiting for retirement and THEN I will FULLY LIVE!! HA!! And like an electric currant in my seat, this book has moved me to action!! I don’t want to live another day without making a difference in the life of others or in my own life!! It doesn’t take much effort to express words of gratitude or encouragement to others… and yet as simple as those actions might be, how often do we neglect the opportunities to validate others?
Bringing together the life reflections of a billionaire and the voice of many sage guides, the author gracefully shares his own wisdom in this powerful, quick read. This book is different. This book calls you into motion, into action to do something … anything that moves you toward a more authentic, exhilarating, lived future.
Conversations with a Billionaire led to conversations with myself. As I consider my future…. Where to live, what work to pursue, where do I want to be? What do I want to do? I see those around me who have taken bold, courageous steps leading to days filled with learning new cultures and experiencing new adventures. I look at them with envy, yet what’s holding me back from taking the leap and no longer living vicariously, but living my own dream! I was made for more than the life I am currently living… and so were you!!
– Happijep

Have you read it? If so, leave a comment. If not, click here to get one or to give one as a gift!

 

10 In Book Review/ Giveaway

What I’ve been reading – and a Giveaway!

We are often fighting in person, what we should be fighting in prayer!

Priscilla Shirer is a great communicator. This book is engaging and full of truth. I appreciated how it reminds me that our enemy is on a mission to kill, steal and destroy. Often times,  we are fighting something in person, rather in PRAYER! Start with PRAYER, continue in PRAYER! “Prayer is kryptonite to the enemy.” I highly recommend this book!

 

Faith isn’t a business trip walked on a sidewalk; it’s an adventure worked out on a steep and sometimes difficult road. -Bob Goff

Bob Goff’s first book, Love Does,  was one of my favorite books ever – it had me laughing until I was crying. I was a little nervous about reading his second book –  I didn’t think it could top the first. I was wrong. His second book, Everybody Always,  DID NOT disappoint! It was funny, interesting and incredibly inspiring!   I HIGHLY recommend you read anything Bob writes! I could listen to him tell stories all day, every day! I’ve never met a person who lives as full of a life as him! Bob left his phone number in the back of the book so I plan to call him the week the boys go back to school.

What should I ask Bob Goff?

 

 

This summer I’ve been reading a fun book with my kids called “Indescribable.” Each chapter/devotional is less than two pages (which seems to be perfect with the attention span of FOUR BOYS!) Each page intertwines the amazing things you find in nature with God’s word and truth. We’ve all enjoyed it and have learned new things!

 

I just finished the summer Help Club for Mom‘s bible study, The Wise Woman Stays, which was written with the focus on staying connected to Chris, staying focused on your marriage, staying engaged with your children.  Now I am about to start the book for Fall: The Wise Woman Abides.

“Abide in me, as I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” John 15:4 ESV

I love the ‘Wise Woman’ Bible study series because it’s written by a variety of real moms of all ages and all walks of life. It’s PRACTICAL, it’s engaging, it’s relatable, and it encourages me to be the best wife and mom. In this book, there are 3 studies per week, so if you miss a day, you won’t get behind. Each study can be done in as little as 15 minutes. You can also join our facebook group – it’s a bunch of ladies, all doing the same study – interacting with, praying for, and encouraging each other!

I purchased an extra book to give away! If you’d like to join me in this study – leave me a comment and I’ll have my boys draw a winner this week!

We choose TWO winners! Congrats Annie K and Ronda M!

The next two books on my reading list are: The Great Alone and Girl, wash your face.

2 In Book Review/ Faith/ Family/ Inspiration

Before you quit, read this!

Do you feel Overwhelmed? Exhausted? Are you ready to quit?

Faith does not look at the FACTS and say “Well, I might as well give up.” Faith looks at circumstances that have “impossible” written all over them and then listens to what heaven is saying. In heaven, you will never hear God say, “You should quit. This is impossible.”

Scripture is clear that faith has nothing to do with what we feel or see. We walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Cor 5:7

If you listen, you will hear God telling you that He is on your side, he is FIGHTING FOR YOU, that with Him you are more than a conqueror!

Determine today, as a person of FAITH, to move your eyes off your situation and open your ears to God’s voice.

When you are in crisis, God is not. When you are in depression, God is not. When you are lost, God is not. When you want to quit, God will not. God has not vanished. Just because you may not understand the path you are traveling doesn’t mean God is not leading you! Choose to trust Him.

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Choose to believe:

He will comfort you in all your troubles. Ps 23:4

God will meet all your needs (Phil 4:19)

He will turn your darkness into light and make straight your crooked path (Is 30:5)

Joy comes in the morning (Ps 30:5)

God will not forsake you (Ps 9:10)

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When Marcus Luttrell (Lone Survivor) was training to be Navy seal he noticed that men around him were quitting, giving up and not fulfilling their dream to be a Seal!  These men were STRONG, some stronger than Marcus. Though they had physical strength, they didn’t have the mental strength. When you make up your mind that you are not going to quit, the battle is WON! There comes a time in every marriage, family or situation when it’s easier to quit than endure. Decide now that you WILL NOT QUIT!

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I am never going to quit loving.

I am never going to quit serving.

I am never going to quit forgiving.

I am never going to quit praying.

I am never going to quit believing.

I am never going to quit being kind.

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Inspiration came from the book “Love Like You’ve Never Been Hurt” by Jentezen Franklin.

Click here to read “Rediscovering Joy: A Journey of Self-Reflection, Resilience and Faith”

Books are affiliate links.

2 In Book Review/ Colorado/ Colorado Springs/ Free stuff/ Giveaway/ Product Recommendations/ Things to do in Colorado

You are invited … to a book signing and a chance to win a $40 and $50 gift card!

Colorado Friends!

I’d like to invite each of you to Ted and my first ever duel BOOK SIGNING!

In the last few months, my husband and I have both published our first books.

Mine is a children’s book is entitled “Climb, Soar, Swim, Explore: A Pikes Peak Adventure Story. (click here to read more about my book).

Ted’s book is entitled “Conversations with a Billionaire.” His book is an amazing story on life and leadership (click here to read more about his book).

Till Kitchen has invited to come do a book signing at their beautiful coffee bar/restaurant. We’d love to meet you and sign a book for you and your children!  PLUS, for every book you purchase, your name will go in a drawing to win a $40 gift card to this fabulous restaurant! (which is on my list of best places to eat in Colorado Springs!) Also, Till Kitchen has offered to give away a $50 gift card for “Tillivery” – their delicious meal delivery service!

Here are all the details:

What: Ted and Kathryn Egly’s book signing

When: Saturday, June 29th from 9-11AM

Where: The Roost Coffee Bar inside Till Kitchen – 9633 Prominent Point | Colorado Springs, CO 80924 | 719 282-8004

Why: Have a cup of hot coffee and a delicious pastry, meet your neighbors and local authors, purchase a book that we will sign with a personal message, and be entered to win a prize!  

For each product you purchase, your name will go into a drawing for a $40 gift card to Till Kitchen OR a $50 gift card for Tillivery! 

PS – If you mention the secret word “KathrynEgly.com,” you will get $2 off my book – making it only $8 for you! The is the best price you’ll find anywhere, ever!

Ted’s book is available for the low price of $12 – the best price you’ll see anywhere as well!

Hope to see you there!!!

UPDATE: Giveaway winners: Mary Kathryn S. ($40 gift card), Pam ($50 Tillivery)

3 In Book Review/ Family/ Product Recommendations

My husband’s first book: Conversations with a Billionaire

 

George enjoying his Daddy’s first book!

I’m so excited to tell you about my husband’s first book, Conversations with a Billionaire!

If you know my husband, you know that he is a gifted communicator. He has so much wisdom and knowledge that spills out of him. He’s been working on this book for the last year, and one night while writing, he said, “Kathryn, you need to write a book too!” I tell more about that story here.

My husband’s not only the reason I wrote MY book, but he’s the reason I started this blog, too! He encourages me to write, even though I wouldn’t call myself a “writer.” Ted is actually the writer in this family! (Soon he will write a guest post on here. Leave me a comment and tell me what you want him to write about!)

In the meantime, let me tell you about my husband!

  • Ted was raised in an Air Force family.
  • He suffered a life-threatening illness in his teens and was miraculously healed.
  • He earned his Bachelors and then his Master’s (in Organizational Leadership and Human Resource Management) – all while working full time.
  • He loves adventure racing, fishing, and teaching.
  • He’s got this crazy “Spidey” sense where he just “knows” what’s going to happen – and he’s usually right!

Ted’s got a life FULL of interesting stories and some of them have been captured in his new book: Conversations with a Billionaire.

Don’t let the title fool you, this is not a book about money, or how to become a Billionaire.

The title comes from conversations that he had and lessons he learned from spending time with a Billionaire. This Billionaire is a name you’d probably know, but he doesn’t share his name in the book. Ted spent time in the Billionaire’s home, learning from him, watching him, and talking to him about life and leadership. Ted writes about things he learned from the Billionaire, as well as stories from his own life.

This book is incredibly inspiring and will benefit anyone – from a stay-at-home parent to a business person. There is something you will learn to spur you on in your journey. You’ll want to have a pen or highlighter with you when you read – there will be so many things you won’t want to forget, or will want to go back and re-read!

A peek inside, and if you pre-order a book, you’ll get PDFs of all the artwork/graphics inside the book!

I’d love for you to order a copy, CLICK HERE to do so!

Here’s a little video from Ted:

4 In 2019/ Book Review/ Joy

Get your Happy On – 7 tips for more JOY!

1. Pay attention to what you are paying attention to.

Do I think more about my disappointments or my blessings? Am I focusing more on what is going WRONG than what is going right?

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Neuroplasticity – moment by moment our brain is changing based on what we consume, what we think, and what we do. What we dwell on helps us or hurts us. It’s gradual – just like weight gain!

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We are sponges!

We soak up what we see, hear, and think! (Kids are even more spongy than adults.)

Proverbs 4:23: “Be very careful what you think. Your thoughts run your life.”

It’s easier to ‘magnify the minuses’ than to ‘promote the positives.’

It’s EASIER to Notice the Negative – this is why we need to be aware of it and pay attention to our thoughts.

Those lacking joy are paying excessive attention to the negatives.

The solution — read, watch, and think on the good stuff.

Glance at problems, glare at God!

Tommy Newberry

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2. Continually remind yourself of your blessings!

Meditate on the good. It’s easy to take for granted the blessings we’ve had the longest:
  • Fresh water,
  • our marriage,
  • a home,
  • heat and air conditioning,
  • blankets and a bed,
  • enough food to eat.
Keep a gratitude list/journal and add to it each day. Review it when you are feeling down!

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3. Each moment is a new beginning

Each day, even each moment, can be a fresh start.

It is because of the Lord’s lovingkindnesses that we are not consumed,
Because His [tender] compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great and beyond measure is Your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:22-23, Amplified Bible

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You don’t need to be mad about something or someone you were mad at yesterday. In fact, when we are thinking negatively about someone, we are actually poisoning ourselves. We can’t feel good about ourselves when we feel rotten about others.

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Hate is a boomerang. If you spew it toward others, it comes back and creates self-loathing.

Joe DeSena

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4. Spend time with people who make you better.

If you want to become better in something, hang out with people who are better than you. Spending time with people who are consistently negative will rub off on you.
Years ago, I had a good friend who regularly talked negatively about her spouse. I found myself trying to find things in my spouse that were negative just so I could relate to her. Yikes!

Hang out with people who love you but challenge you to be the best version of yourself.

  • As I’m trying to be a good mom, I talk to moms who I admire or who have raised good kids.
  • Because I want a good marriage, Ted and I spend time with those who fight for their marriage.

Proverbs 27:17: “Iron can sharpen iron.In the same way, people can help each other.”

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5. Our current Emotions are not FACTS, they are FEELINGS

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What are emotions?

Emotions are subjective indicators of objective events

You are not your feelings – you are more than that. Life is a mixture of good and bad. Emotions may want you to feel bad when life, in general, is really good! Focus on the good that happens.

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Allocate your thoughts to the following categories:

  • Blessings
  • Things that I can fix (what CAN YOU do)
  • Scripture memorization
  • Service / contributing to others

 “…The cheerful heart has a continual feast.”

Proverbs 15:5

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6. Have an Early Morning Joy Ritual (EMJR)

Joy needs to start first thing in the morning.
EMRJ is one habit that will elevate your joy.
Start your day with:
– Writing down 2-5 things that bring you joy.
– Reading/memorizing a positive quote,
Daily declarations, or
– Reading, quoting or memorizing Scripture. 

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7. Finally, be on the LOOKOUT for good!

We have approximately 50,000 thoughts a day – 90% are repeats.
What I’m thinking about today predisposes me to repeat those thoughts tomorrow. If I’m thinking mostly negative today,  I’m more than likely going to do the same tomorrow.
In a previous post, I wrote about how we use our “Awesome Jar” to help us notice the GOOD that happens each day. We put notes in the jar of things that are “awesome” The jar forces us to look for what is going right and to talk about!

You will always find good if you look for it.

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Continue to think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.

Philippians 4:8

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Author Tommy Newbery, the inspiration behind this post!

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Do you need a daily dose of JOY!? Here are a couple of products I recommend:

  1. The Joy Challenge for Moms

An easy, daily, devotional-style book – written by women and for women! Read this for a little “joy boost” each day.  NOTE: Order this book and receive 40 days worth of inspirational daily JOY builder videos! A $40+ dollar value! 

2. The 4:8 Principle: The Secret to a Joy-Filled Life, by Tommy Newberry

3. Love Does, by Bob Goff 

This book will just make you laugh the whole way through, and sometimes, you just need a laugh! I could listen to and read Bob’s stuff all day every day! I just purchased the one for kids so I could read it with them!



Which of these tips resonates with you?

What are you reading/watching/listening to that brings you joy? Please leave a comment by clicking on the little comment box by the title of this post.

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Struggling with fear? Here are 12 verses that build your faith and fight fear.

Here is a Daily Declaration that we have printed on the fridge.