I've been just a little quiet....

But with very good reason!! Not only did we move into a new home this year, (YES!!) have to undergo a bit of reconstruction in our living room - because of water damage, had some fun decorating our new home (though I don't feel anywhere NEAR settled yet... with time..)

Just a couple of my wintery touches... ;) 

 BUT our family has had a HUGE surprise!! Something I never expected to happen...

Yes!!! I am expecting!!!! I am in the second trimester, and though morning sickness wasn't too bad, I'm happy to be feeling much better and to be getting some energy back!!

At 19 weeks this past Thursday, I'm finally starting to "pop" a bit and am enjoying my little bump! ;) I have felt a few little flutters, but am excited to really start feeling my little one!!

It was such a surprise to find out that The Lord has sent our next little one to us this way! We were starting to discuss getting geared up for the next adoption! ;) (I had been feeling a bit of "baby fever.") And while we thought we'd wait til our active, very busy toddler was just a tad bit older, God has other plans, and His plans are perfect!! (Even though this Matron of Honor is due just two days before her dear sister's wedding!! YES! God does have quite the sense of humor!!) ;)

So, just a little "catch up" post on my blog... And I've got a few book reviews to catch up on as well. ;) I've been a bit remiss on a couple of my programs and I don't want to be disqualified. It takes me a while to get through a book these days for some strange reason!! :P

Book Review: The Potter's Lady

Ah, yes, once again a return to historical fiction - my first love! ;) I have a true love of history and enjoy books about different time periods. Judith Miller has my respect as a writer and has for quite some while. Some authors just stand out above the rest.

I really enjoyed reading The Potter's Lady. In this story, Rose McKay convinces her brother to invest in a pottery business. She loves designing pottery and wants to help in designing pieces that will make the new business venture a success. When the survival of the new business depends on the outcome of a contest that would result in an amazing pottery contract, Rose isn't sure who she can trust - company designs have been stolen.

I did enjoy this book - so much so, that I am excited to have received another in this series for Christmas! This is a sequel to another book, but knowing that does not interfere with enjoying this one. I also love when covers to books are beautifully designed, as this one is! I look forward to reading more of Judith Miller's books.


Thanks to Bethany House for the review copy. My opinions are my own.

Book Review: From the Start

Yes, with moving and everything else going on this year, I've got a bit behind on my book reviews. :) We'll start with this one. ;)

Kate Walker is in a bit of a slump as a professional writer and returns to her hometown - small Maple Valley. Colton Greene is in his own professional slump as an injured NFL player and he retreats to a friend's home in the small town of, you guessed it, Maple Valley. They are both seeking where to go next in life, will they get a fresh start together?

This was a fun book to read, but honestly, not overly original as contemporary Christian fiction goes. I also found it a bit odd that with a very autumn looking cover and a football theme, this book released in March. Seemed like funny timing to me, but I'm not the expert. ;) Did I enjoy it, yes! Do I recommend it? Sure! Fun read!



Thank you to Bethany House for the review copy... my opinions are my own.

Book Review: Jesus Calling for Little Ones

If you haven't heard of the devotional, Jesus Calling, it is one of my absolute favorites. Based on Scripture, it is often exactly what I need for the day. I was excited to see this little Jesus Calling for Little Ones! It is very sweet, encouraging, and comforting for little ones. Like the adult version, each page and the encouragement comes directly from the Bible and the verses are printed there as well. 

It is a cardboard book, which is perfect for my little one right now. She loves to look at the pages, especially the one with the little girl praying. She loves to say prayers and play with her doll. :) I can see us reading this even more in the future when the words have even more meaning for her. 

Thank you to BookLook blogger program for this review copy. My opinions are my own. 

Book Review: Where Trust Lies

Where Trust Lies is the second book in the Return to The Canadian West series. While this series is meant as a companion to the popular television series produced by Hallmark, I feel the book is excellent on it's own. (And for me, reading the book doesn't pose the disturbing issue of having to watch the characters in a historic setting sporting modern day hairstyles... does this not bother anyone else but me?? ahem. back to the book...)  In this story, Beth is headed back home to her family and on to a steamship cruise of the east coast. They make some friends on the trip but also meet some people of questionable character, leading one of their party into danger! (Ok... no more spoilers here... read it!) :)

Janette Oke, yes she's been writing a while. Yes, some people feel that her stories are a bit formulaic. BUT, I'm really not of that opinion. While she does tend to stick in the same genre, historical fiction, that also happens to be one of my favorite genres and I feel she does a great job! Some of my favorite, re-read/comfort books are Janette Oke. :) This book is a quick fun read and I love the cover art - it can really make or break a book in today's competitive market! :)

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This book was given to me in exchange for my honest review by Bethany House Publishers. Just an aside... I love their review program. It is very personal and they are quick to answer any questions! I also love the quality books put out by Bethany House... some publishers I've had issues with content, but not Bethany. Kudos to a publisher for upholding high standards!