"Will you take her?" she asks.

 When Beth Nonte Russell travels to China to help her friend Alex adopt a baby girl from an orphanage there, she thinks it will be an adventure, a chance to see the world. But her friend, who had prepared for the adoption for many months, panics soon after being presented with the frail baby, and the situation develops into one of the greatest challenges of Russell's life.

Russell, watching in disbelief as Alex distances herself from the child, cares for the baby -- clothing, bathing, and feeding her -- and makes her feel secure in the unfamiliar surroundings. Russell is overwhelmed and disoriented by the unfolding drama and all that she sees in China, and yet amid the emotional turmoil finds herself deeply bonding with the child. She begins to have dreams of an ancient past -- dreams of a young woman who is plucked from the countryside and chosen to be empress, and of the child who is ultimately taken from her. As it becomes clear that her friend -- whose indecisiveness about the adoption has become a torment -- won't be bringing the baby home, Russell is amazed to realize that she cannot leave the baby behind and that her dreams have been telling her something significant, giving her the courage to open her heart and bring the child home against all odds.

Steeped in Chinese culture, Forever Lily is an extraordinary account of a life-changing, wholly unexpected love.

Beth Nonte Russell received a master's degree in psychology from Marymount University and provided counseling services at a community mental health center. She lives with her husband and two daughters, Lily and Jaden, outside Washington, D.C.

This book was not what I expected it to be.  When I received the review request for this one, I was excited.  It has been a while since I've had opportunity to review an adoption-related book here on my blog; and I do like to make sure that I have adoption content here to share - especially with people who may be contemplating adoption and looking for reading material.

I know, from our times in Vietnam, that situations like the one portrayed in this book really do happen.  To me, it seems unreal and impossible.  But, I've heard tales of mothers who rejected their new babies because the baby bonded with the father and not the mother; or, like the perspective adoptive mother in this  book, the baby "just wasn't what they expected".  It seems ridiculous to me, though.  I will admit that, when I first laid eyes on Gracie, she wasn't what I expected either - her face was covered in a rash and her head was mishapen (due to bottle propping).  But, within a matter of minutes, she was mine; and I could have never given her up!  So, though I'm sure the author meant to portray Alex in a light that would make us question her motives, I'm left with many questions that went unanswered in the pages of the book.  What was wrong with the baby that she could just decide that she didn't want her?

I enjoyed the China-adoption-related storylines in this book.  The Chinese culture, the adoption trip itself, the trip the see the baby's orphanage, etc. - I found that all extremely interesting and was able to tie it with similarities of my own Vietnam adoption adventures.  I appreciated Beth's descriptions of her feelings for this baby - how quickly she was able to feel a bond with her and the  strong desire in her heart to make this baby her own.

However, as most of my readers are Christians, I need to point out that this is NOT a Christian book.  Actually, I'm not sure exactly what religion this book would tie into.  There are references to praying, and there's a time that God is mentioned (with a capital "G"), but Buddha is also mentioned, chatting with a "spiritual advisor", meditation, etc. along with some other ideas that are just very foreign to me as a Christian.  Throughout the story, Beth shares dream sequences.  All along, I thought that her dreams seemed a bit too vivid to be real, and I found myself actually skimming over  them, or skipping them altogether at times. The dreams were just extremely odd.  Toward the end of the book, you find out that she believes that these dreams are actually remembrances of a past life that she lived.  Hello?!  I just don't buy that. 

Because of the things mentioned in the previous paragraph, I will not be inclined to recommend this book.

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What if you were a nearly-transparent creature who was almost impossible to see swimming in a vast ocean? Who would be your friend? That is the plight of Joy the Jellyfish, who swims the ocean looking for a friend.

Kristen Collier is a critically acclaimed Christian novelist, a columnist for several newspapers, and a feature writer for magazines.  Kevin Collier is a children's book author and has illustrated over 40 children's books.

I was honored to be asked to review this precious book!  I love children's books anyway, and this one has a very sweet storyline and illustrations that are colorful and fun.  I've come to love any book that is illustrated by Kevin Collier (our Splish artist); but this book, in particular, is fabulous.  It's very obvious that a lot of extra time and effort were put into making this book wonderful.

The storyline is simple, yet profound.  Joy, the seemingly transparent jellyfish, has trouble making friends.  She believes it is because others don't notice her or can't see her. Finally, she comes to realize that in order to have friends, you have to BE a friend.  Of course, the book has a happy ending. 

This book would be excellent for a beginning reader, or especially for a shy child.  If you have a special child on your Christmas list, and you've been looking for a great book, I'd definitely recommend adding Joy the Jellyfish to your gift buying for this year.  The  book can be purchased here, and is also available on Amazon.com, Target,com, and other online book retailers.

If you'd like to have even more fun with Joy, check out the book's website, where you'll find all kinds of great worksheets to expand the learning and fun of the book!

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This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
White Christmas Pie
Barbour Publishing, Inc (September 1, 2008)
by
Wanda E. Brunstetter

Step into Amish country for this bittersweet holiday romance. Here you'll meet Will Henderson, a young man tortured by his past, and Karen Yoder, a young woman looking for answers. Add a desperate father searching for his son, and you have all the ingredients for a first-class romance that will inspire and enthrall.

Abandoned by his father, Will Henderson was raised by an Amish couple. Now he's about to marry Karen Yoder but is having second thoughts. Can Will overcome the bitterness of his past in order to secure his future? Karen cannot break through the barrier her fiance has suddenly constructed around his heart. When she seeks the advice of an old boyfriend, Will begins to see green. Has he already lost his chance for happiness?

When an accident threatens Will's life, the strength of blood ties is tested. Will a recipe for White Christmas pie contain the ingredients for a happily-ever-after?

If you would like to read the first chapter of White Christmas Pie, go HERE

Watch the book trailer:

Fascinated by the Amish people during the years of visiting her husband's family in Pennsylvania, WANDA E. BRUNSTETTER combined her interest with her writing and now has eleven novels about the Amish in print, along with numerous other stories and ministry booklets. She lives in Washington State, where her husband is a pastor, but takes every opportunity to visit Amish settlements throughout the states.

This year Wanda also published A Sister's Hope.

This was the first of Wanda's  books that I have read.  I have heard of her and have  been seeing her books in stores, etc. but I had never had opportunity to read one.  So, I was anxious for White Christmas Pie.  Living among the Amish, I tend to be much more critical of these books based on the Amish - and there seems to be an overabundance of them these days.  I have read most of Bevely Lewis' books and I find them to be quite  good.  However, if you've been reading my  blog for any length of time, you know I've read some Amish books by other authors that I have NOT enjoyed.

So, yes, I'm critical, I admit it.  Here's my thoughts on White Christmas Pie --- as far as the Amish, I was so glad that this book was set in Indiana, rather than PA.  Anything written about the Amish that I wasn't quite sure about (and there wasn't much), I was able to "chalk it up" as differences in various Amish sects - so that was GOOD!  However, I wasn't really impressed with the writing style of this book.  It seemed extremely simplistic to me, almost as if it were forced.  In other words, things were written into the storyline that, to me, would have been better off left  to the imagination.  I don't know if that makes any sense or not.  The more I read it, the more I liked it - I thought it started off somewhat slow and drawn out. 

I will pick up more of her books, though, as I'd be interested to see if they are all written in this same style.  We shall see.....

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A grandfather’s song turns a diner into hallowed ground, like a church. A contrary girl with a gypsy heart feels the tug of home. A mother, far away, confronts impossible expectations. And a truck driver named Jedidiah keeps his foot on the gas to sweep you into an unforgettable story of belonging and grace.

Readers looking for a meaningful, powerful read on a winter’s evening or with the family will love the rich 1960s nostalgia captured in the Midwest of Jedidiah’s and Ellee’s story; the peace found when family strife boils over, and the gentle reminders of the influence and effect every life has on another.

My Mother’s Wish is an unforgettable, powerful tale that ends on a memorable Christmastime note, but will be cherished and reread year-round for its bold message of grand hopes, impossible expectations, and the gift of grace that comes in between. 

This  book was very different than what I expected after reading the summary.  However, I did enjoy it.  At this time of year, I enjoy the shorter novellas that are available, especially when they have a Christmas theme.  I think these little story books make great gifts for friends and loved ones.  My Mother's Wish is no exception.  Though the story wasn't what I expected, it was intriguing and fun to read, and I enjoyed the ending (which I wasn't expecting). 

I'd love to share a copy of this book.  If you'd be interested in receiving a copy of My Mother's Wish, please leave a comment to this post.  I'll draw a winner on Thursday (the 20th) and announce the winner at that time.

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Angel Eyes is a heartwarming adventure of two cherubs, Kennedy and Tristan. They help children understand what the angels might have felt when Jesus came to Earth and was crucified. Dixie Phillips' inspirational story coupled with Kim Sponaugle's colorful illustrations make the story come alive and guarantees to leave Divine footprints in the hearts of children of all ages.

Stubby's Destiny is an inspirational story about a defeated donkey, Stubby, who feels he was born wrong. He was just about to give up when Divine destiny tapped him on the shoulder. He was chosen to carry the King of Kings upon his back. Stubby's Destiny will bring hope to hurting children who feel their situation is hopeless.

Dixie Phillips and her husband, Paul, have been married for thirty-one years and served the congregation of the Gospel Lighthouse Church in Floyd, Iowa, for the past twenty-seven years. The Phillips have four grown children. Dixie hopes to capture the hearts of little ones for Prince Emmanuel with her heartwarming stories. Visit Dixie's writing ministry at www.floydslighthouse.com.

What can I say?  These books are PRECIOUS!  With their charming illustrations and their heartwarming storylines, these two books are sure to become favorites to many children.  Dixie Phillips has used some endearing characters (a donkey who's feeling down on his luck, and some child-like cherubs) to help tell the story of the  gospel in such a way that children can easily relate to it and understand it.  Kim Sponaugle is an extremely talented artist whose illustrations are colorful and fun to look at. 

I see a lot of children's  books and I really do enjoy reading them.  I'm an adult, though, so you don't want to take my word for it!  My 8 year old daughter read both of these books and she says that they were very good and she thinks that kids would really enjoy reading them.  So, there you have it!  If you're looking for a good Christmas gift for some of the little ones in your life, be sure to check out these two titles by Guardian Angel Publishing.

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Today's is Ashley's 15th birthday!

Please stop by her blog and tell her
Happy Birthday!

Ashley,
I'm so glad you're mine
and I'm very proud of the lovely young woman that you are  becoming.
You constantly make me proud-
in your dealings with people,
your writing, and your desire to honor God with your life.
I am blessed to be your mom
and to be home with you every day.
Love,
Mom

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Ashley and I have enough topics set up to do Destination Disney as a weekly meme for 2009.  Feedback would be much appreciated - are you wanting to switch to a weekly meme?  Or would you prefer to stick to twice a month (in which case we have enough topics to cover 2 years)?  Leave me a comment and let me know your thoughts on this. 

Also, in response to a question I asked a few weeks ago, some said a day other than Friday might be good.  I dont' really like Friday myself.  Would THURSDAY work?  If so, let me know in the comments (or tell me which day would be best for YOU, and we'll go with the majority vote).

Now, for this week's Destination Disney.....

Our topic is

I have to admit, EPCOT is my favorite park -
probably because it is just dripping with education
and I'm a bit of an education-freak.

Does everyone realize that there is a ride inside that giant geosphere?!
Yep, it's called Spaceship Earth and, though it's made a few changes over the years,
it travels through time explaining how man communicates.
Though rather slow-moving, it's actually quite interesting.

EPCOT is actually two parks rolled into one.
The front park, Future World, houses all kinds of fun and educational attractions,
including The Seas with Nemo & Friends,

Soarin' (which we have yet to ride but are looking forward to),
Test Track (if you're in a hurry, jump in the single rider lane),
and many other interesting and fun exhibits.
My mom's personal favorite is Figment:

I absolutely love the back part of EPCOT - World Showcase.
World Showcase Lagoon is surrounded by replicas of 11 countries.
My goal on our last trip was to have our family picture taken in each country.
We did accomplish it, but I won't share because we're in those
lovely yellow rain ponchos in about 1/2 of them!
Hopefully we can redeem ourselves this coming January!

My girls have enjoyed the KIDCOT Fun Stops, hosted by Family Fun.
Last time (and I think currently) they made a mask - adding to it in each country.
They've also enjoyed the passports you can purchase and get signed and stamped in each country.
These both make excellent (and inexpensive) souveniers.
(If you're a member of the DISboards, there are even DISigners who have created printable passports - these would cost nothing more than the ink and paper to print them on-
though I'm not sure I'm clever enough to put one together!)

No trip to EPCOT would be complete without staying for the laser fireworks show -
Illuminations - Reflections of Earth.

I can't wait to see everyone's EPCOT pictures and hear their EPCOT stories.
I wish I had more pictures to share, but my album is (once again)
in pieces and my scanner just doesn't do the best job.
After our January  trip, I should have PLENTY of pictures to share!

Please sign the Mr. Linky with a direct link to your DD post.
Be sure to spread the news to your friends about Destination Disney.
And visit the other DD links - make some new Disney-lovin' friends!

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This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
One Holy Night
Sheaf House (April 1, 2008)
by
J. M. Hochstetler

In 1967 the military build-up in Viet Nam is undergoing a dramatic surge. The resulting explosion of anti-war sentiment tears the country apart, slicing through generations and shattering families. In the quiet bedroom community of Shepherdsville, Minnesota, the war comes home to Frank and Maggie McRae, whose only son, Mike, is serving as a grunt in Viet Nam.

Frank despises all Asians because of what he witnessed as a young soldier fighting the Japanese in the south Pacific during WWII. The news that his son has fallen in love with and married Thi Nhuong, a young Vietnamese woman, shocks him. To Frank all Asians are enemies of his country, his family, and himself. A Buddhist, Thi Nhuong represents everything he despises. So he cuts Mike out of his life despite the pleas of his wife, Maggie; daughter, Julie; and Julie s husband, Dan, the pastor of a growing congregation.

Maggie is fighting her own battle--against cancer. Convinced that God is going to heal her, Frank plays the part of a model Christian. Her death on Thanksgiving Day devastates him. Worse, as they arrive home from the gravesite, the family receives news of Mike s death in battle. Embittered, Frank stops attending church and cuts off family and friends.

By the time a very pregnant Thi Nhuong arrives on his doorstep on a stormy Christmas Eve, Frank is so filled with hate that he slams the door in her face, shutting her out in the bitter cold. Finally, overcome by guilt, he tries to go after her, but driving wind and snow force him back inside. With the storm rising to blizzard strength, he confronts the wrenching truth that what hate has driven him to do is as evil as what the Japanese did all those years earlier, and that he needs forgiveness as desperately as they did ...

Frank doesn't know that what God has in mind this night is a miracle. As on that holy night so many years ago, a baby will be born and laid in a manger--a baby who will bring forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing to a family that has suffered heart-wrenching loss.

If you would like to read the first chapter of One Holy Night, go HERE.

J. M. Hochstetler writes stories that always involve some element of the past and of finding home. Born in central Indiana, the daughter of Mennonite farmers, she graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Germanic languages. She was an editor with Abingdon Press for twelve years and has published three novels.

One Holy Night, a contemporary miracle story for all seasons, released in April 2008. Daughter of Liberty (2004) and Native Son (2005), books 1 and 2 of the American Patriot Series are set during the American Revolution. Book 3, Wind of the Spirit, is scheduled for release in March 2009. Hochstetler is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Christian Authors Network, Middle Tennessee Christian Writers, and Historical Novels Society.

I was really attracted to this book because of (1) the Christmas story and (2) the references to Vietnam.  However, I just really have to admit that I didn't enjoy this book as much as I thought I would.  In addition to the "main cast of characters" - Frank, his wife Maggie, and their children, Julie and Mike - there were so many "extra" stories going on, involving so many additional characters, that it was hard to follow sometimes.  I would have enjoyed the story so much more if it were just the main characters and the storyline involving them. 

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We recently received the Windmill Generator kit from Green Science to review. 

Another incredible green toy for older kids from 4M!

Build this amazing wind generator and learn about renewable energy. Watch the LED glow as it is powered by free energy from the wind. No batteries required! Help save the planet by recycling a plastic bottle to support your wind generator.

Contents:

* 1 Rotor
* 1 Front-housing with gear and rotor shaft installed
* 2 Half screw caps
* 1 Tail
* 1 Toy motor with gear
* 8 Small screws
* 1 LED unit with wires and detailed assembly instructions

This was an exciting product to me.  I'm not a huge fan of science, so it's hard for me to just come up with fun science experiments on my own.  I must admit, though, that when I first opened this box, I was a little intimidated by all the pieces that came with it (some very small).  I sat down to work on this project with my 8-year-old daughter, and we put the windmill generator together with surprising ease.  The directions were extremely clear and easy-to-follow and the pieces were well-represented in the directions so we had no problem distinguishing what was what.

But, the true test of projects like these is always how they work, right? We got a fan and turned it on high speed and, sure enough, the windmill generator took off!  We couldn't wait until darkness rolled around and we could test it again.  It was so exciting to see the light that was generated from the wind!  We added water to the bottle and enjoyed the effect that the light made on the water. 

This was definitely a fun project.  When 2 non-science people  give it TWO THUMBS UP, you know this company has succeeded!  I would definitely recommend this Windmill Generator project and will be looking into more Green Science kits to make science fun and  come to life!  These kits can be purchased at Kobold Toys.  Christmas is coming, and I'm sure you kids would love these - educational gifts that are actually FUN!

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