Historical Fiction Review: Yours Truly, Thomas by Rachel Fordham

Book Description:

For three years, Penny Ercanbeck has been opening other people's mail.

Dead ends are a reality for clerks at the dead letter office, and she dreams of something more--a bit of intrigue, perhaps a taste of romance. When she comes across a letter from a brokenhearted man to his one true love, it becomes her mission to place this lost letter into the hands of its intended recipient.

But when Penny's undertaking leads her to the intriguing man who touched her soul with his words, everything grows more complicated. She wants to find the rightful owner of the letter, and yet . . . she finds herself caring--perhaps too much--for the one who wrote it.

My Review:
I'm picky about the historical fiction I read. I admit I was drawn to this book because the main character's name is Penny, like me. Yours Truly, Thomas is a wonderful story of forgiveness of self and others. Guilt is such a difficult burden to bear. Fordham's story of love and adventure creates a beautiful backdrop for a difficult journey. If you enjoy Hallmark's series and movies, Signed, Sealed, Delivered, you'll love this story. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. 5 stars.

Children's Book Review: Seek and Explore Devotions for Kids by Yvonne H. Van Ee, PhD & Michael Williams, PhD

Book Description:

The Seek and Explore Book of Devotions is a full-color, interactive journey through every book of the Bible—365 days (plus one for leap day!) of reading and hands-on activities, like journaling, crosswords, word searches, puzzles, and more. During each week, your child will learn about one or two books of the Bible in short, easy-to-handle activities. Whether reading, writing, drawing, crafting, moving, or going out into the world, kids will learn about the Bible, God, and themselves. By the end of this interactive journey, your child will have a better understanding of the Bible as the story of God’s people and his love for them. Perfect for a child to use on his own, as a family, in a classroom, or even in a Sunday school setting, this devotional is unique and engaging for ages 6–10.

My Review:
I like the premise of Seek and Explore. The illustrations are engaging and fun. The devotional activities are varied. I'm not convinced a six to eight-year old would be able to use this book to the full extent. But with an adult or as a family, this would be a great addition to devotion time. For independent use, nine to twelve might be a better target age. The activities look enjoyable and will help the child have a better understanding of the scripture. I especially like the devos that are more like a puzzle than the writing activities. I can also see this as a good home school tool to prompt Bible discussion. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Zonderkidz. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Cross and the Flag

2 Corinthians 3:17

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

As the fireworks flared and boomed, our country celebrated another year of independence. A freedom fought for and protected by our men and women in the armed forces. I thank God for their sacrifices and bravery. I cannot imagine being at war. Hunkering down in ditches, putting up with one-hundred-twenty degrees of heat, tolerating annoying insects, snakes, spiders, or being separated from family and friends.

Pray for the folks who defend American freedom. Give them a thank you, when you see them. My dad fought in WW 2, and I will be forever grateful to him.

As much as I thank God for our soldiers, even more I praise God for the one who sacrificed for the ultimate freedom. Jesus Christ gave his life so that my life could be saved. He allowed my sins to fall on him, so that grace could pour over me. Jesus paid the price, like many soldiers, he died for my liberty. Then he rose in victory. He won the battle.

When I think of freedom, I look to the cross and the flag, two symbols of sacrifice, hope and love.

Flower Friday: Chicory

The delicate light-blue blossoms of chicory wave hello to summer. 

Did you know, the roots of chicory are sometimes used to make coffee? I had the opportunity to taste this interesting drink at the Cafe Du Monde, in New Orleans. It was quite tasty along side a delicious beignet.

Happy 4th!

The World is God's

From Pain to Praise

Psalm 30:11-12

You turned my wailing into dancing;
    you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,
that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent.
    Lord my God, I will praise you forever.

For the last couple of years I was employed, I carried a lot of stress. My health failed me. Pain increased as my knee cartilage disappeared. I limped and ached. The environment at work changed. We were under constant construction, updating toward a better place. But the noise and chaos troubled me. Changes in staffing and increase in responsibility took a toll. As my physical pain increased, my joy evaporated. I may not have wailed, but I cried and complained. Yet all along, God had a plan.

Last November, the surgeon replaced my old, broken-down knee with a brand new, shiny one. In May, I retired. Since then, joy has replaced my sorrow and pain. Although I still can't dance (I couldn't before, either) I rejoice and praise God for meeting my needs. He knew my future before I did. Many circumstances in life bring sorrow, crying, and pain. God takes those situations, guides us through and gives hope. Now as I look back on the many months I struggled, I see where my Father held me up and helped me, literally, put one foot in front of the other. He carried me through those last days on the job and has given me tools to help others.

I praise God for walking with me every day.

God's plan for your life, far exceed the circumstances of your day. -Louie Giglio