Jan. 31, 2008 - 2008 Personal Reading List

Last year I attempted to keep a record of the books that I'd read through the year here. It was fun to keep track, and I like reading other's book lists and getting ideas, so I figured I do it again this year.

January

Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte I loved it and blogged all about it here.

The Shaping of a Christian Family by Elisabeth Elliot Part biographical, part autobiographical, I was challenged, inspired, and encouraged by reading about Elisabeth Elliot's upbringing, which is quite different from my own. If you adore Elisabeth Elliot, you'd enjoy this book.

Anne of Green Gables by L.M.Montgomery No matter how many times I read this book, I never tire of it. I have more than half of it memorized, and continue to relate to this beloved Anne-girl. My husband watched the movie with me last year, and gained so much insight into who I am. Seriously. He laughed at all the most serious parts because the resemblance was uncany! After 11 years of marriage he knows me well, he just hadn't been introduced to my literary counterpart yet. :) If by some chance you've never read it yourself, you've got to do it!

So what've you been reading? Got any recommendations for me? Which books can you read over and over again? To what literary character do you most relate? Talk to me

Jan. 11, 2008 - Jane Eyre

     Despite being in gifted English classes throughout High School, my public school education was sorely lacking in classic literature.  We read sections of many works, studied some Shakespeare, the Odyssey, Beowulf, and Caterbury Tales, but we also wasted our time with a lot of silly short stories.  In college, I read a few classics (Don Quioxte, The Great Gatsby,..) in my Humanities classes, but the only literature class that I took was World Lit Survey which focused on books from Africa, Asia, and mostly Eastern countries.  Thus,  while I can delineate the merits of Cry the Beloved Country and Things Fall Apart, I am sorely illiterate in my knowledge of many of the classics of Western Literature. 

      Determined to remedy this situation, I began by reading Pride and Prejudice for the first time a couple of years ago.  Upon completion,  I was filled with such a great sense of accomplishment that I determined to become acquainted with more of the classics.  Since then, I've relished Northanger Abbey, Emma, and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn.  

      These past two nights, I stayed up way too late finishing my first Bronte book: Jane Eyre.  I confess to not knowing at all what this book was about before I started reading it, and I was completely surprised by its contents.  I wrongfully assumed it would be just like the Jane Austin books that I've read.  Although there are some similarities (period, setting, cultural atmosphere), Charlotte Bronte's classic was so much richer, deeper, more suspenseful, and spiritual than Austin's.  (And personally, I like Jane so much better than Emma).  In the end, it was positively redemptive!  I enjoyed it thoroughly. 

      One quote which I must share with you, illustrates the moral undertones of this book.  These words, spoken by Jane Eyre, are full of Truth which is very much relevant in today's society, and bears heeding.

"I will keep the law given by God; sanctioned by man.  I will hold to the principles received by me when I was sane, and not mad---as I am now.  Laws and principles are not for the times when there is not temptation: they are for such moments as this, when body and soul rise in mutiny against their rigour; stringent are they; inviolate they shall be.  If at my individual conscience I might break them, what would be their worth?  They have a worth--- so I have always believed, and if I cannot believe it now, it is because I am insane--- quite insane with my veins running fire, and my heart beating faster than I can count its throbs.  Preconceived opinions, foregone determinations, are all I have at this hour to stand by: there I plant my foot." (Dover Thrift Edition, Chapter XXVII, pages 296-297)

     If you are as unread in the classics as I was; I encourage you to read one.  You won't be dissapointed.  If  you're well educated in the classics; please share your favorites with me.  I'm anxious to read another one. 

Jan. 2, 2008 - 2007 Personal Reading List

I decided in January of 2007 to keep a list of all of the books I read throughout the year.  I really thought I'd posted more than just January, but it appears I have not!  This year, I tried to branch out a bit; read more classics, diversify.  As I glimpse through the books I've read, I am reminded of how much I gleaned from so many of them.  There are few on the list that I would not heartily recommend.  I know I've forgotten some of them, but as memory serves me, here is my long-awaited, updated, personal reading list from 2007.   Happy Reading!

I've seen quite a few bloggers posting a list of the books they're reading each month, and it seems like a good idea to me, so I've decided to do the same.  Before you ask, "When do you find time to read?" I read in the car traveling to and from Pennsylvania (we usually get out there twice a year), and I read before I go to bed at night (but not every night).  We have not been watching television as much, so that has extended my reading time.  Rarely do I read in the daytime, unless I am sick, or sometimes during "quiet time," but that's usually computer time.   Initially, I can read a couple of chapters a night, but with most books, I get to a point where I can not stop reading until I've finished the book.  I suffer the results in the morning. 

• Trial by Ordeal by Craig Parshall. Definately a "guy book."  I really wanted to like this one since it was written by Janet Parshall's husband (a quality chap), and in the end I did, but it took a long time to get into it and the writing seemed forced.  
• Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen.  Absolutely delightful! Charming!  The reading of this book was enhanced by watching Pride and Prejudice with my sister (who gave me Northanger Abbey ) when about half-way through the book.   
• The Messenger by Tim Woodroof.  Biblical Historical-Fiction centered around the church at Phillipi.  Very well-written! Captivating!  Tim Woodroof writes as though from personal experience,  focusing on several themes which are still relevant in today's churches.  Highly recommended!
• Glimpses of Paradise: A Novel  by James Scott Bell.  Christian Historical-Fiction novel set in WWI/post-war, small town America, and Hollywood.  A fun read which was also very interesting and thought provoking.  Excellent character development.  Recommended!
• Emma Lazarus Rediscovered by Eve Merriam.  Selections from Emma Lazarus' literary works tied together with biographical narrative.  I do not share her personal or political philosophy, but I really enjoyed learning about her and stretching my mind through reading the excerpts from her writings. 
• Mark of the Cross by Judith Pella.  Interesting love story set in the Middle Ages, but somewhat far fetched.  It was okay.

• The Greatest Game Ever Played by Mark Frost. This book took me over a year to complete, but I really enjoyed it.  I'm not a golfer myself, but read it in order to discuss it with my dad.  Extremely well written, and full of interesting historical and social information, this biography of golf would be a great gift idea for the golfer in your life. 

• Emma by Jane Austen.  Not nearly as enjoyable as Pride & Prejudice, I was a tad disappointed. 

• A Man Called Peter by Catherine Marshall.  A Christian classic, absolutely inspiring!  Read more here.

• Ishmael by E.D.E.N. Southworth.  This Lamplighter book is truly one of the best novels I've ever read in my entire life.  It reads like a soap-opera, but is so full of moral values and inspiring characters!  I could not put it down, and was thankful to have the sequel on hand to begin immediately after finishing. 

• Self-Raised by E.D.E.N. Southworth.  Suspenseful sequel to Ishmael, I devoured it like the first.  Loved it!

• Canadian West Series by Janette Oake (When Calls the Heart, When Breaks the Dawn, When Hope Spings New, When Comes the Spring).  This is my absolute favorite series by this beloved author!  It was a wonderful summertime treat to bury myself in it once again: like donning a favorite sweater! 

• The Last Jihad by Joel C. Rosenburg.  Gripping novel, critically aclaimed.  I could hardly put it down, and my husband enjoyed it thoroughly as well.

• The Last Days by Joel C. Rosenburg.  Exciting sequel to Last Jihad did not dissapoint. 

• Genesis of a Legacy by Ken & Steve Ham.  Part biography, part autobiography, part instructional; this book about the Ham family sheds light on Ken's passion for Creation Science, and challenges parents to put God's Word first in rearing their children.  Full of great insight!

• Thoughts for Young Men by J.C.Ryle.  A quick read, but chock full of practical biblical admonitions for young men.  Though written over a hundred years ago, it still hold tremendous relevance!  Recommended for boys ages 10-12 and up.

• Northwest Passage by Kenneth Roberts.  At over 700 pages in length, this is the longest book I've ever read, and one of the most captivating.  I was fascinated by the portrayal of Robert Rogers (Roger's Rangers-French and Indian War), and the authors ability to expose his impressive strengths and repulsive weaknesses so articulately!   Published in 1937, I appreciated the tact with which disturbing subject matter was presented; such is lacking in much acclaimed modern novels!  Excellent history, appropriate for mature high school students and above. 

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Patterson.  Not having read this as a child, I wanted to read it myself before allowing the kids to read it or see the movie.  I really enjoyed it, but decided it was slightly more mature than my son.  In my opinion it's appropriate for 11/12 year olds and up, and necessitates discussion. 

• Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary.  A childhood favorite that I wanted to reread before passing on to my daughter.  I still enjoy it! 

• A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith.  Few books have moved me in the way that this one did.  It struck a chord in my heart and provoked so much thought and emotion.  I lingered in that reflective place for days after finishing it.  If you haven't read it yourself, you must!

• Fifth Seal by Brock & Bodie Thoene.  This biblical historical fiction book (and its sequel) is a precious book to read during Advent.  Another excellent composition by two of my all-time favorite authors!

• Sixth Covenant by Brock & Bodie Thoene.  Sequel to Fifth Seal, I was sobbing by the end.  The reality of Christ's coming struck me anew as I read their interpretation of the biblical events surrounding the birth of our Savior.  Fabulous!

I have not yet completed the following books:

• The Wonderful Spirit Filled Life by Charles Stanley.  I was so blessed and challenged by this book, and then I set it aside and never finished.  I must do so soon.  My initial insights can be read here. 
• The Shaping of a Christian Family by Elisabeth Elliot.  Part biography, part autobiography.  This glimpse into the upbringing of Elisabeth as well as her parents' is very insightful, challenging, and thought provoking.  There is much practical application to be taken away. 
• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.  A $3.50 Christmas present to myself.  My first Bronte book, and I am loving it!!!  No wonder it's a classic! :)

Jun. 15, 2007 - In Remembrance: Ruth Bell Graham

Jesus wept.

          But why?

                   Knowing what lay ahead

                 moments away…

             Was it because

          He had not come,

       when He heard

 Lazarus might die?

  Lazarus was dead!

    Was it in sympathy

       with their raw grief,

        faith’s impotent lack?

         Or could it be

          because He

            had to bring him

             back?

                        Ruth Bell Graham

I don't keep up well with current events, so I just heard the news that Ruth Bell Graham has gone to meet her Savior face to face.  You can read about her here, but I would recommend that you get to know her even better through her own words.  Footprints of a Pilgrim is a beautiful auto-biography which caused me to fall in love with this godly woman.  It is full of her own poetry and personal anecdotes which inspire and encourage me.  Though published 6 years before her death, it is a fitting memorial as it also includes thoughts of many others (Jan Karon, Barbara Bush, her family) on Ruth Graham. 

May many continue to be blessed by the legacy which she has left behind.  I look forward to spending eternity with you, dear Ruth! 

From the final page: 

AND SO WE OFFER YOU A VERY FULL LIFE

AND TRAILING IN ITS WAKE

A CADENCE OF MEMORIES

OF JOY

AND OF PAIN

OF BROKENNESS

AND OF HEALING

SNATCHES OF INSIGHT

GLIMPSES OF GRACE

IN THE BRIGHT LIGHT OF LOVE.

THE FOOTPRINTS OF A PILGRIM.

Jun. 1, 2007 - Emma

Last night I finished reading Emma for the first time.  It didn’t make my top ten list of best books, but I did end up enjoying it by the end.  I must confess that it was actually a very frustrating book to read.   Emma seemed to be getting herself (and others) tangled up in such a way that caused me to become tense in anticipation of whether and how it would all work out.  Was Harriet going to be spoiled forever?  What would come of the farmer she should have married?  Was there really something between this person and that, or was I just imagining it?  What mystery lies between Miss Fairfax and Frank Churchill?  Would Emma ever grow up?

I don’t normally get so agitated by all of the loose ends, but for some reason this book caused great angst and I was so relieved to finally arrive at the end of it and find that everything worked out just as I would have liked for it to end. 

It was enjoyable to witness Emma’s maturation, and I found myself like her in many ways.  Many are the foolish things that I have done in my lifetime.  I’m so thankful that I’ve grown up from the immature adolescent I was in high school.  I still look back at things I did and said with regret!  Why did I ever say that?  What provoked me to do such a silly thing?  Sigh! 

The one thing that is noticeably absent from classics like this one, is any real mention of God.  In fact, the vicar turned out to be one of the least favorable characters!  No one prays, even before meals.  There wasn’t a single mention of the Bible.  The book is totally devoid of spiritual value.  So why do we as Christians esteem it so much?  Yes, it’s a very moral book, but are goodness and morality enough?  Can you really become a mature man without Christ?  I’m sure that there are plenty of moral, upstanding people who have matured nicely without Him (by the world’s standards), but for me the only true maturity has come as I have learned to rely on Jesus more and more, day after day, step by step.  As I have grown in my understanding of His Word, I have grown in wisdom.  As I have yielded to the Holy Spirit and learned to abide in Christ, He has produced perfect fruit in me.  My Heavenly Father is continually conforming me into the image of the Son.  That is how real maturity occurs!  It’s absolutely impossible without a great deal of prayer and Bible study.   While I’ve had my share of Mr. Knightleys in my life to chastise my improper behavior, they do not replace the need for the Holy Spirit in my life (although he beautiful typified the Holy Spirit whose love for us desires us to become ever more like Christ!). 

In the end, it was an enjoyable book.  I do feel a bit more cultured having read it.  I am looking forward to watching the movie.  I will continue to enjoy the classics.  But they will never touch my heart in the way that Christian books do, for there is little of eternal value in them.  Having finished this, my third, Jane Austen book, I am even more grateful for Lamplighter books, as I contrast this highly acclaimed novel with two lesser known ones that completely captivated me and entered my heart forever:  Ishmael and Self Raised by E.D.E.N. Southworth.  These are classics that not only endure the test of time, but are of eternal significance as well!    And that makes all the difference!

May. 18, 2007 - To Watch or Not To Watch?

Saturday night is going to be a girls' night with my daughters (almost 8, 6, 4), so I'm trying to think of something fun to do with them beyond painting toenails.  They always like the idea of popcorn and a movie and it would be a very special treat since they haven't watched hardly any TV or DVDs lately.  I think that they're old enough to enjoy watching The Secret Garden (Hallmark Hall of Fame- 1987) or Anne of Green Gables with me, but the problem is that they haven't read either of these books.  Both of these are very well done movies and true to the books, but no matter how good the movie; the book is always better.  I had hoped to read The Secret Garden to them before watching the film, but it hasn't happened yet, so should I wait, or should we just enjoy the movie?  The Secret Garden was one of my favorite childhood books, and I still remember the suspense of reading it.  Will they be losing something by watching the movie first?

One reason that I hesitate is that once you've watched a movie, it influences the way you read the book.  Instead of imagining what Anne looks like based on L.M.Montgomery's description, you will forever have the image of Megan Follows in your head.  It hinders your imagination.  I had already read the Anne books before we watched the weekly PBS instalments; as it turned out, Megan Follows was exactly as I had pictured Anne!  So maybe it doesn't matter.  Pride and Prejudice was another book which I read before watching the film.  I'm glad I did and I'm waiting to watch Emma and Sense & Sensibility until I've read those books as well.   But sometimes it can be so disappointing to watch the movie after you've read the book.  Are you not as disappointed when you read the book after watching the movie?  I've always read the book first, so I don't really know if watching the movie spoils or enhances the reading of the book.

What do you think?  Am I over-analyzing or should we wait?  Maybe we could pop some popcorn and I could begin reading The Secret Garden to them.  These movies have been sitting on my shelf waiting for the right time for quite a while now; I suppose they could wait a little longer.   Except I've been reading so much to them lately that I don't know that they'd be as excited about that idea.  And there are still so many other books to read that don't have movies to go along with them.  But Anne of Green Gables is one of the best books of all time, and I'd hate to have my daughters lose any of the joy that comes from reading it by watching the movie first!  We've watched all the other age-appropriate movies we own and I never have much success going to Blockbuster.  If you really want to know the truth, I'M the one who really wants to watch Anne of Green Gables again, it's been such a long time and the music from the soundtrack is playing through my head even as I type.  Maybe I should just put the girls to bed early and stay up late watching it myself.  I'm sure they'd appreciate that! Ha!

Suggestions anyone?

Mar. 20, 2007 - Practicing the Presence of God

Preface: This post was inspired in part after I came across numerous critiques of Brother Lawrence, and references to those who esteem him as mystical or New Age.  I will assure you that I do not fit into either category; nonetheless, I have been blessed by the basic concept presented in this book.  It has been several years since I read it, and I have not read any of his other books, but read within the context of God’s Word, the concept of practicing the presence of God is consistent with Scripture and Jesus’ instruction in John 15 to “abide in Him.”  It is important that we always practice discernment!  Everything that we read must be read in the light of the Word of God and our beliefs must conform to His Word.  Applying these principles, I was able to glean many positive and practical insights from The Practice of the Presence of God.   On a side note, I first heard of Brother Lawrence from Elisabeth Elliot.  It would be laughable to describe her as either a modern day mystic, or one who dabbles in the New Age! 

Practicing the Presence of God

When I was a young mom of two, I was introduced to a 17^th century monk by the name of Brother Lawrence and his small book The Practice of the Presence of God.  The profundity of this work forever impacted my life.  Simply put, Brother Lawrence was a monk who learned to be mindful of God’s presence with him even as he peeled potatoes.  He learned to worship God and pray continually in the midst of the most mundane of life’s circumstances. 

Being a young mother whose life was comprised of many such mundane activities, I was greatly encouraged and challenged to “pray without ceasing” as a result of reading this book.  In I Thessalonians 5:16-18, the apostle Paul writes, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” As a person who desires to always be in the center of God’s will, I learned that the simple exercises of rejoicing, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks for everything, were practical things that I could do to ensure that I was.  As Paul again states in Philippians 2:14, “do all things without grumbling or disputing;”  From Paul and Brother Lawrence, I learned that rather than despising washing diapers, laundry, and dishes, I ought to see those chores as opportunities to spend time in God’s presence, in prayer and conversation with Him.  As a result, I began to master the art of praying without ceasing.  If a friend came to mind as I loaded the dishwasher, I prayed for that person, specifically.  As I loaded smelly diapers into the washing machine, I thanked God that I did not have to wash them by hand.  As I scrubbed the toilet, I worshiped God, recalling His numerous attributes.  As I washed the dishes, I looked out the window and praised God for His creation.  Over time, these mundane tasks were no longer burdensome, but rather were opportunities for prayer and worship.  Times spent nursing the baby in the middle of the night became opportunities to dedicate the child to the Lord and pray specifically for his future, his faith, his future mate.  Midnight insomnia became an opportunity to worship God and pray for missionaries oversees who would be in the midst of their day, serving and ministering.  Over time, these interruptions were welcomed as I recognized the power of prayer. 

There were other results as well.  In Hebrews 13:5, we are instructed, “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you nor will I ever forsake you.”  In this verse, God’s promise to always be with us is the reason we are to be content.  Thus, the key to contentment is knowing and understanding that God is with us.  In this regard, the more I practiced the presence of God, the more content I became in my circumstance.  When I was aware of God’s presence with me, worshiping Him, praising Him, thanking Him, interceding for others, and petitioning for my own requests, an attitude of contentment and gratitude was developed in my heart.  Rather than begrudging my role as a stay at home mom, wishing I were working in a law firm somewhere, I was content to scrub toilets to the glory of God and in service to my family.  The times that I was not acknowledging His presence were times that I was vulnerable to discontentment and sin.  Consider this; if another person is in the room with you, you are less likely to scream at your kids than when you are alone with them.  In the same regard, when we acknowledge God’s presence, we ought to behave differently. 

The effects of practicing the presence of God are numerous and far reaching!  Even though it has been about 7 years since I read Brother Lawrence’s book, the basic concepts that he wrote about come to mind frequently.  I will confess that I have not been so eager to scrub toilets lately!  I continue to pray without ceasing, throughout the day, but my life has not been permeated to the same degree by actions resulting from an understanding of His presence with me every single moment.  The challenge is that I can’t always feel God’s presence with me, but I must accept by faith His promise to always be with me, and the reality of His Holy Spirit within me.  I still have a long way to go, but I am ever-thankful for the lessons I began learning from a 17^th century monk who praised God while he scrubbed potatoes. 

Mar. 8, 2007 - Perfect Hospitality

“His house was perfect, whether you like food, or sleep, or work, or story-telling, or singing, or just sitting and thinking best, or a pleasant mixture of them all.  Evil things did not come into that valley…All of them, the ponies as well, grew refreshed and strong in a few days there.  Their clothes were mended as well as their bruises, their tempers and their hopes.  Their bags were filled with food and provisions light to carry but strong to bring them over the mountain passes.  Their plans were improved with the best advice.”  

J.R.R. Tolkien

Describing Elrond’s House

Chapter 3, A Short Rest: The Hobbit

Feb. 12, 2007 - Recommended Reading: Fiction

            I’ve begun posting a list of books that I’ve read each month, but what of all of the other books that I’ve read in past months, and years?  There’s no way I can remember all of the books that I’ve ever read, although I think it would be awesome if I had kept track all these years!  At the prompting of AHappyHome, I’ve attempted to compile some of the best.  Normally, I would attempt to post links for each of these books, but in this instance, that would be far too time consuming.  Sorry!

          I enjoy many different genres of literature, but my favorite, by far, are Christian Historical Fiction and Biblical Historical Fiction.   In an attempt to be relevant, this past year, I read a few books off the New York Times Best Seller list (Davinci Code, Angels & Demons, Kite Runner), and while they were at times captivating and intriguing, I found the profanity and much of the subject matter to be disturbing and appalling to my spirit.  Another book was simply pornographic, and the Spirit inside me would not allow me to read beyond the first 20 pages (although I still wonder how everything turned out in the end)!  On the other hand, I am extremely frustrated by the poor writing that is submitted by some Christian authors!   There is one, amazingly popular, series of books about the end times that you will not find on my list, as the character development, dialogue, and writing are so poor that I actually stopped reading in the middle of the book, in the middle of the series (something that never happens), because I could not stand to read it any longer!   The plot was intriguing, but the characters were hokey and not believable.  I am not a writer myself, but I have a very high standard for what I read. 

Quality content + Quality writers = Quality Literature

          My favorite authors are definitely Brock & Bodie Thoene.  I would recommend anything they’ve written!  If you’re looking for a place to start and like history, try the Zion Covenant series set in World War II Europe.  If you prefer Biblical fiction, the A.D. Chronicles are amazing! 

          Another favorite author is Francine Rivers.  I enjoyed her Mark of the Lion trilogy tremendously!  Set in Rome just after the time of Christ, they easily rank in my top ten ever!  I haven’t cared as much for her more contemporary novels.

          For a long time, Ellen Gunderson Traylor, was one of my favorite authors.  She captured my heart with her Biblical fiction novel about Ruth, which remains a favorite, but I was disappointed with her departure from some known Biblical facts in Joshua, and Noah was pretty bizarre.  Still, I’d recommend her other books as long as you're careful to practice discernment as you read.  The Priest and The Oracle are more contemporary suspense novels which I enjoyed. 

          Another old favorite Christian historical fiction author is Marian Wells.  I think her books are out of print, but you can find them used.  She wrote a few books about the beginnings of the Mormon church which were quite enlightening and another interesting series set during the Civil War. 

          In a totally different genre, Frank Peretti’s books This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness are phenomenal.  Definately thought provoking regarding the reality of the spiritual world. 

          Of course, no female bibliophile’s list would be complete without Anne of Green Gables.  The Anne books rank among the best books ever written.  If you haven’t read them, you must, and if you’ve only read the first book, there is so much more waiting for you in the other 7.   Also by L.M.Montgomery, Kilmeny of the Orchard is one of the sweetest books ever written!  My mother also loves the Emily books, but I haven’t been able to get through even the first one myself. 

          I stayed up many a late night (or early morning) reading Grace Livingston Hill novels.  They’re all delightful to read and I’ve even discovered a new blog devoted to all thing GLH: Neat and Dainty as a Flower.  I've read so many and it's been so long since I did, that I can't recommend any certain titles. 

          Janette Oake is another popular Christian author whose books have delighted me.  They aren’t as intellectually stimulating as some of the others I’ve read, but there’s something so comforting about reading one of her books, like putting on a favorite sweater and a broken in pair of jeans that aren’t too snug around the hips!  I can read through one in a couple of hours, but wish that they’d never end!  My favorite of her series are the Canadian West and Seasons of the Heart.

          Julie and Christy by Catherine Marshall are wonderful books too! 

          I am ashamed to admit that I really have not read many classics.  I opted out of senior year AP Literature in high school in favor of Speech and Etymology, and the only Lit class I took in college was World Lit. Survey, which focused on Non-Western Literature, so that is one area of my education that is severely lacking!  As a young girl, I did enjoy all of Louisa May Alcott’s books, as well as The Secret Garden, The Little Princess, and some other childhood classics, but it was only a couple of years ago that I read Pride and Prejudice for the first time, and I was so proud of the accomplishment!   I hope to read more of Jane Austen’s books, as well as some of the Bronte sisters’ and expand my horizons this year to enjoy many more of the classics. 

          Well, that's the best I can do for now.  I'm sure that I'll think of others in the days to come, and I do hope to compile a similar list of non-fiction books in the near future.  I'd love to read your favorites too, so feel free to post them in the comments or blog them yourself and post a link!  While searching for links, I came across Tracey’s Book Nook which looks like a great resource.  Enjoy and Happy Reading!

Feb. 9, 2007 - Something to Savor from A Man Called Peter

I’ve been busy today getting the house in order for “Home Fellowship” this evening.  I decided to allow myself to take a break for just a minute to share with you a bit.  I’m reading the Christian classic, A Man Called Peter, the biography of Peter Marshall by his lovely widow, Catherine.  It is a shame that so few of us modern Christians know of this great preacher from Scotland who captured our nation’s heart and influenced many as Chaplain of the United States Senate.  This book is one of the many that have been decorating my bookshelves for years, waiting patiently for the moment when they can share their treasures with me.  I am thoroughly enjoying this gem, and hope that you are encouraged, challenged, and blessed, by this excerpt, from one of Peter’s sermons, written sometime in the 1930s.   

Marriage is not a federation of two sovereign states.  It is a union---

domestic

  social

     spiritual

         physical.

It is the fusion of two hearts----

     the union of two lives-----

          the coming together of two tributaries,

which, after being joined in marriage, will flow in the same channel in the    

     same direction…

carrying the same burdens of responsibility and obligation.

Modern girls argue that they have to earn an income, in order to establish a home, which would be impossible on their husband’s income.

That is sometimes the case, but it must always be viewed as a regrettable necessity, never as the normal or natural thing for a wife to have to do.

The average woman, if she gives her full time to her home

    her husband

         her children…

If she tries to understand her husband’s work…

    to curb his egotism while, at the same time, building up his self-esteem

    to kill his masculine conceit while encouraging all of his hopes

    to establish around the family a circle of true friends…

If she provides in the home a proper atmosphere of culture

     of love of music

         of beautiful furniture

             and of a garden…

If she can do all this, she will be engaged in a life’s work that will demand every ounce of her strength

     every bit of her patience

           every talent God has given her

              the utmost sacrifice of her love.

It will demand everything she has and more.

And she will find that for which she was created.

She will know that she is carrying out the plan of God.

She will be a partner with the Sovereign Ruler of the universe.

And so, today’s daughters need to think twice before they seek to make a place for themselves

     by themselves

in our world today….

Oh, that more of us would heed his words! 

I look forward to reading your comments!

Partnering with the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe,

Angel

Jan. 31, 2007 - Confident or Insecure?

I’ve been reading Emma Lazarus Rediscovered by Eve Merriam, which my dh picked up for me at Ellis Island, while on a business trip to New York last year.  The following quote resonated with me for a couple of different reasons.  In a letter to Ellen Emerson (daughter of Ralph Waldo) Emma wrote:

Thank you very much for your kind, welcome letter---I am so glad you sent it just as you did, with the interrupted fragments on different dates, for it was especially pleasant to be reassured of your frequent thoughts of me.  I think I require more expressions of friendship from those I care for than most people do---not from lack of confidence in their kindness or loyalty, but from my painful mistrust of my own capacity to inspire friendship.

I found it interesting that a person who appeared to exude great confidence remained, at heart, extremely insecure.  Interesting, but not surprising!  I am well aware that many people assume that I am very confident, and in some ways I am.  I am confident in my Lord, in the salvation that I have obtained through Him, and of the beliefs that I have acquired from studying His Word.  But I, too, am quite insecure in numerous ways and share Miss Lazarus’ “painful mistrust of my own capacity to inspire friendship,” despite the many wonderful friends that I appreciate and adore. 

If you can discern the second reason which caused this quote to resonate in my heart, consider yourself one of my most beloved friends.  (Hint: Those of you who knew me before the widespread use of e-mail when I wrote lengthy letters by hand, over the course of days, weeks, or even months.) 

Jan. 19, 2007 - Marveling at Maturation & Highly Recommended: My Mommy, My Teacher

This evening, I had the pleasure of reading My Mommy, My Teacher by Johanna Bluedorn to my sweet 2dd7.5.  Sadly, I admit that this dear child has not always been so enthusiastic about being home-educated.   We have already had many conversations about why it is that we homeschool when "so and so" does not.  I have attempted to be honest without being critical of the decisions that fellow believers have made, focusing her attention on the decision that "Daddy and I" have made, based on our conviction from the Holy Spirit and the Word of God.  We recognize, and acknowledge that others do not share the same conviction, but God has entrusted her to us, and she; therefore, has to submit to our decision to keep her at home. 

Unfortunately, her lack of enthusiasm for being kept at home has often carried over to her attitude while being instructed.  But God, (once again those two words inspire and encourage me), God has been working in her heart as of late, and we have been pleased to see marked maturity in her over the past several months.  While she was saddened to leave behind so many dear friends in Virginia, and family in Pennsylvania, this move has been so good for her.  She has drawn closer to us (her sisters, her brother, her daddy and me) in this time where playdates are virtually non-existant.  She has also flourished under the love and attention of Gramma, Granpa, and aunts and uncles.  Even better, she has shown initiative in reading her Bible and having quiet time (encouraged by a special Precious Moments devotional journal she received as a Christmas gift from her sister). 

From the time she was a baby, she was the girl with the curl who was either "very, very good" or "horrid."  Lately, she's been much less horrid and more often very sweet.  She has always been beautiful (as you can see in my avatar), but lately her inner beauty has been so much more dominant.  There are times when she can not keep the smile inside.  The joy floods her face and we are overwhelmed by the toothless grin and those adorable dimples.  God is doing wonderful things in her heart, and that has overflowed to our academic lessons.  She is thriving in our home-schooling environment, finally content with the decisions we have made.  Which brings me back to Johanna's picturebook. 

This book has captured her heart.  She admittedly loves "every part of it" and is even wondering when we will move to a farm and have chickens and cows too.  She has poured over every picture, admiring the beautiful dresses, "I'd like a dress like this one, isn't it pretty?"  Searching for the page where the kids talk about putting on a play for their parents so that she can show me.  I am amused, I am delighted, but I am not suprised.  As I consider how many books we homeschooling mothers read, books to encourage us that we've made the right decision, books that teach us how to teach our children, books that challenge us to not give up....Is it no wonder that our children might benefit from a book of their own about home-educated children?  Even the precious "living books" that we read to them often include children who "go" to school.  The videos they watch, the CDs they listen to, the toys with which they play (although we never bought the Fisher-Price Schoolbus ourselves) they all advocate the norm of children being educated at a school, in a classroom.  Undoubtedly, our children might benefit from some external encouragement, in the form of a beautifully illustrated picturebook.  I highly recommend My Mommy, My Teacher by Johanna Bluedorn, available at Trivium Pursuit.  I appreciate that Miss Bluedorn has endeavored to bless our families, encourage our children, and glorify God in her writing.  I pray that others would follow her lead and provide our families with many more books that will continue to encourage our children! 

Nov. 27, 2006 - The Joy of Learning to Read

Teaching my children to read has been such a delightful experience!

I have been fortunate to have bright kids who respond well to phonics instruction (provided I am sensitive to their readiness).  I have enjoyed every part of the process from first learning the letters of the alphabet to reading fluently. 

My son recently completed The Chronicles of Narnia and has started The Hobbit.  He finally accepted that Mom has good taste in books, after devouring Misty of Chincoteague in two days.  He is his mother's son, an avid bookworm!

Tonight, my eldest daughter finished her first living chapter-book: The Courage of Sarah Noble.  She has been sporadically reading a chapter before bed over the course of the past two months and finally finished it tonight.  (She goes at her own pace.) My heart was warmed as she shared her oral narration with me.  She couldn't hide her adorable dimples as she told me of the game they played with a pebble in a shoe.  Her eyes shined as she told of the reunion of Sarah with her family.  I didn't correct her when she "like" told me "like" how the Indian "like" carried Sarah on his shoulders.  I was far too busy treasuring the moment in my heart and enjoying her toothless grin.  

Narrations haven't always flowed so smoothly from her lips.  At the beginning of the book (in October) she would claim that she didn't remember what she had read, but tonight she remembered well and was pleased to share with me.  This is my daughter who likes to keep her thoughts to herself and only share them when it suits her.  I have learned to give her my undivided attention when she chooses to share her heart with me, in the hopes that it will encourage her to do it more often.  After she finished retelling the last 4 chapters of the book (yes, if you did your math, you've realized that it took 1 1/2 months to read 7 chapters and 1 night to read 4), she asked, "So, can we go to the library in the morning?"  Of course, we do need another book! (plus, this one is overdue and accruing fines because the library wouldn't let me renew it again!)

Reading is so marvelous!  I'm fortunate to have two children who have entered the world of readers, with two more on their heels.  I think I'll go curl up with a good book of my own.  Isn't life grand?!?

Sep. 20, 2006 - Through Gates of Splendor: Put Off and Put On

As I've continued to read, I have now been introduced to Nate Saint.  Although familiar with him from the movie End of the Spear, I am even more impressed by the picture Elisabeth Elliot paints of him and the quotes she includes from his diaries. 

In Chapter V, she talks of his inventions, improvements, and adjustments to his plane in order to more excellently fulfill his mission of delivering needed supplies to missionaries in the jungle.  On page 60 she writes:

"Every ounce counted in a plane of this type. When Nate found that the streamlined wheel covers were collecting mud, he took them off.  Characteristically, Nate turned this to spiritual illustration: 'When life's flight is over, and we unload our cargo at the other end, the fellow who got rid of the unnecessary weight will have the most valuable cargo to present to the Lord.' " 

What a challenge to me!  Am I faithfully, consistently, persistently, and dilligently, working to rid myself of "unnecessary weight" so that I can carry the "most valuable cargo" for the Lord?  In Colossians 3, Paul instructs us to "put...aside anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth."(verse 8) and to "put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love,..."(verses 12-14).  The verses which follow are also full of instruction of how we should lives as those "who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved."   This is the kind of cargo we should be accumulating, not the kind that weighs us down and prevents us from serving the Lord with our whole being.   (I'd encourage you to take a few minutes and read the entire chapter, it's full of good meat.)

So, that's my challenge today.  Put off and put on.  Be persistent in searching out every part of myself and my life to see where I've put on a little weight that needs to be purged.  (And I'm not talking about fitting my jeans better, although that wouldn't be such a bad thing either! )

Have a great day!  God bless!

Sep. 13, 2006 - Through Gates of Splendor: Chapter 1 and Glimpses for Kids

Do you have books on your shelves that have been there so long and are so familiar to you that you believe that you must have read them at some point but in actuality you never have?  Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot is one of those books for me.  I am so familiar with Elisabeth Elliot and the story of her husband Jim that I just assumed that I'd actually read this book, but in reality, I never have.  So, I picked it up last night before bed and even though I forced myself to put it down after one chapter, I'm already wondering why it has taken me so long to actually read it.  The first chapter has been filled with quotes from Jim's diaries and I am already so impressed and humbled by this godly man's fervor and his heavenly perspective.  I could probably rewrite the chapter here if I shared every quote that impressed me, so I'll limit myself to one that seemed especially applicable to my own life. 

page 23

"Remember the last few verses of 1 Corinthians 3, 'For all things are yours...and ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.'  Throughout all our personality we are God's, and since God has made our whole selves, there is great joy in realizing who is our Creator.  This realization is to permeate every area and level of life.  In appreciation of beauty, mountains, music, poetry, knowledge, people, science---even in the tang of an apple---God is there, to reflect the joy of His presence in the believer who will realize God's purpose in all things."  Pete Fleming

Recognizing God's hand in everything is such an important part of truly living a Christian life.  Praising God is not something that can be relegated to Sunday morning, but it is the overflow of the awe that comes from seeing God's hand at work in the big things and in the smallest details.  And knowing that "God has made our whole selves," there is freedom to be who He created us to be whether people think we are strange, weird, crazy, annoying; God gave us our personalities for a purpose and He will use them for His glory and the edification of the body of Christ.  There is such peace in knowing that, and security in resting in Him and seeking His approval rather than man's!  We thus present ourselves as "living sacrifices" (Romans 12) and ask that He would use us to accomplish His purpose, for our good and His glory. 

Applying this to my homeschooling, it really doesn't matter whether others approve, I am the Lord's and He is the one that I am serving, so I will make the most of this opportunity that He has presented me with and the four beautiful children which He has entrusted to me and do my best to teach them to live a life in awe of our Creator and to learn to recognize God's purpose in all things; so that, they may live their lives to the fullest, devoted as I am to our Lord and Savior.  What an awesome privilege!

Check it Out! In surfing for links for this post, I found this awesome resource from the Christian History Institute: Glimpses for Kids: Real Heroes for Today biographical news articles about numerous "heroes of the faith" with quizzes and on-line activities as well.