I have half-written posts that I'd like to share, but Ed had a short seizure last night, and I'm not in the writing mode this morning.
Some of my favorite websites have shared posts recently that were so good I wanted to save them to reread. Enjoy their insights.
Anita shares some profound thoughts on loneliness and our longing for God in the Seduction of the Sehnsuht Part One and Part Two.
The Mullet family has experienced far more physical illness than most, and Cindy shares on Finding Hope in Suffering
Shari Zook's words brought me to tears in What I Saw: Good Friday Reflections.
Sara shares a poem she learned as a youth that echoes today in Dying to Self.
Katrina Hoover Lee shared some of her favorite Easter poems including the poignant Gethsemane.
Desiring God shares on How To Make Urgent Medical Decisions for Your Loved One.
May these words inspire you.
الثلاثاء، 30 أبريل 2019
الجمعة، 26 أبريل 2019
One Day at a Time
For months, my general response to "How are you?" has been "We're living one day at a time."
The past few weeks this has been even more true. I can only focus on today. Or maybe this moment.
I can't dwell on the past because then I remember how much better Ed was last month, or last summer or last year. The days I thought were hard then, now seem easy. I wonder why I didn't appreciate how good I had it.
No, I can't focus on the past.
I can't focus on the future. I do have to make plans. I must make phone calls, line up supplies, and work out details. Sometimes I even allow myself to dream, to plan a summer book club or look up a new camping spot the children would enjoy. But I can't imagine how I'll make it through the next weeks, the next months, the coming years.
No, I can't dwell on the future.
A few months ago I didn't know how I'd manage if Ed lost his ability to walk. Now it's our reality.
How are we managing?
We "do the next thing" as Elisabeth Elliot said often. Each moment there is a task ahead of me and always there is strength for that task.
When I accept my present reality and walk into it, I find grace for the moment.
The last weeks have held some good times. Ed and I enjoyed his niece's wedding. On Palm Sunday Ed's family was together at his mother's house. My family spent Easter Sunday together, enjoying the presence of my brother who returned from teaching English in the Middle East. And of course, Easter is a reminder that we have a risen Savior who gives us hope.
Enjoying Iraqi naan at our untypical Easter dinner.
But our families are holding us up in very tangible ways. My sister helped me scrub the winter grime off the windows to let in the spring sunshine. Ed's brothers and my brothers have helped with various projects around the house such as building a wheelchair ramp and stacking firewood. If I mention that my faucet is leaking, I have brothers vying to fix it.
Many of you have emailed, sent mail, and remembered us in various ways. Thank you for your love and reminders of God's care. Your prayers are holding us up and are the reason we are finding grace.
A friend sent me the words to this song which have been echoing in my mind ever since. I know that often people reject God in times of suffering. My prayer is that I will hold tighter to Him as my only place of safety.
Under His Wings
by William O. Cushing
Enjoy listening to this song in this video. (If reading by email, click over to the blog to view.)
The past few weeks this has been even more true. I can only focus on today. Or maybe this moment.
I can't dwell on the past because then I remember how much better Ed was last month, or last summer or last year. The days I thought were hard then, now seem easy. I wonder why I didn't appreciate how good I had it.
No, I can't focus on the past.
I can't focus on the future. I do have to make plans. I must make phone calls, line up supplies, and work out details. Sometimes I even allow myself to dream, to plan a summer book club or look up a new camping spot the children would enjoy. But I can't imagine how I'll make it through the next weeks, the next months, the coming years.
No, I can't dwell on the future.
A few months ago I didn't know how I'd manage if Ed lost his ability to walk. Now it's our reality.
How are we managing?
We "do the next thing" as Elisabeth Elliot said often. Each moment there is a task ahead of me and always there is strength for that task.
When I accept my present reality and walk into it, I find grace for the moment.
The last weeks have held some good times. Ed and I enjoyed his niece's wedding. On Palm Sunday Ed's family was together at his mother's house. My family spent Easter Sunday together, enjoying the presence of my brother who returned from teaching English in the Middle East. And of course, Easter is a reminder that we have a risen Savior who gives us hope.
Enjoying Iraqi naan at our untypical Easter dinner.
But Ed's wheelchair is now necessary just to move across the room. His shaky hands make eating difficult. The weakness on his left side is more obvious. Every day I see another sign of his deteriorating health.
But our families are holding us up in very tangible ways. My sister helped me scrub the winter grime off the windows to let in the spring sunshine. Ed's brothers and my brothers have helped with various projects around the house such as building a wheelchair ramp and stacking firewood. If I mention that my faucet is leaking, I have brothers vying to fix it.
Many of you have emailed, sent mail, and remembered us in various ways. Thank you for your love and reminders of God's care. Your prayers are holding us up and are the reason we are finding grace.
A friend sent me the words to this song which have been echoing in my mind ever since. I know that often people reject God in times of suffering. My prayer is that I will hold tighter to Him as my only place of safety.
Under His Wings
by William O. Cushing
Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me, and I am His child.
Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him; I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me, and I am His child.
Under His wings, under His wings,
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
Under His wings, what a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort, and there I am blessed.
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort, and there I am blessed.
Under His wings, oh, what precious enjoyment!
There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me,
Resting in Jesus, I’m safe evermore.
There will I hide till life’s trials are o’er;
Sheltered, protected, no evil can harm me,
Resting in Jesus, I’m safe evermore.
الثلاثاء، 23 أبريل 2019
Book Review - Suffering Is Never For Nothing
One of the shaping influences of my life is Elisabeth Elliot. I read almost all of her book in my teens and early twenties. I also had the chance of hearing her speak in person at several different events in my teens.
I remember sitting on a couch next to Elisabeth in the lobby at one of these events. I thought I'd bubble over with questions, but I couldn't think of anything to say. (Yes, rare speechless moment for Gina.) Elisabeth turned the questions to me asking how I pinned my hair into a bun. We ended up comparing hair notes (she also wore her hair in a bun.) That was when I realized that Elisabeth wasn't only wise and articulate, she was also kind, funny, and, well, human.
When I heard of Elisabeth's death a few years ago, I pulled the whole stack of her books off my shelf intending reread them all. I don't think I got past my favorite (A Path Through Suffering). This post contains affiliate links.
I rarely buy new books. I'm such a tightwad that I'd rather borrow books from the library or from friends, or wait until I can find them used.
But when I heard that a new book by Elisabeth Elliot had been published, and when I heard the topic, I immediately ordered it from Amazon.
Suffering Is Never For Nothing was compiled from a transcript of a small conference where Elisabeth spoke on the topic of suffering.
Elisabeth met suffering personally. Her husband, Jim Elliot, was murdered soon after their marriage while trying to share the gospel in Ecuador. Cancer took the life of her second husband. Elisabeth has personal experience with wrestling with the hard questions of why God doesn't do something about suffering.
Her answer? He has. God walked the ultimate path of suffering and won the victory. For all of us who suffer.
This book is unlike Elisabeth's other books. The tone is conversational since it came from her spoken words. The prose is not tight like her other books, and I wonder if Elisabeth would be embarrassed to have her unedited script be put to print.
But I underlined many passages in this book and when I finished the last page, I turned to the beginning and started reading again. Right now, a deep theological tome would be too much for me to ingest. But when I read Suffering Is Never For Nothing, I can see Elisabeth's tall thin frame standing behind a lectern, with her soft but authoritative voice sharing God's Word through her life story.
And again I thank God for the way His grace in Elisabeth's life is able to strengthen me.
I remember sitting on a couch next to Elisabeth in the lobby at one of these events. I thought I'd bubble over with questions, but I couldn't think of anything to say. (Yes, rare speechless moment for Gina.) Elisabeth turned the questions to me asking how I pinned my hair into a bun. We ended up comparing hair notes (she also wore her hair in a bun.) That was when I realized that Elisabeth wasn't only wise and articulate, she was also kind, funny, and, well, human.
When I heard of Elisabeth's death a few years ago, I pulled the whole stack of her books off my shelf intending reread them all. I don't think I got past my favorite (A Path Through Suffering). This post contains affiliate links.
I rarely buy new books. I'm such a tightwad that I'd rather borrow books from the library or from friends, or wait until I can find them used.
But when I heard that a new book by Elisabeth Elliot had been published, and when I heard the topic, I immediately ordered it from Amazon.
Suffering Is Never For Nothing was compiled from a transcript of a small conference where Elisabeth spoke on the topic of suffering.
Elisabeth met suffering personally. Her husband, Jim Elliot, was murdered soon after their marriage while trying to share the gospel in Ecuador. Cancer took the life of her second husband. Elisabeth has personal experience with wrestling with the hard questions of why God doesn't do something about suffering.
Her answer? He has. God walked the ultimate path of suffering and won the victory. For all of us who suffer.
This book is unlike Elisabeth's other books. The tone is conversational since it came from her spoken words. The prose is not tight like her other books, and I wonder if Elisabeth would be embarrassed to have her unedited script be put to print.
But I underlined many passages in this book and when I finished the last page, I turned to the beginning and started reading again. Right now, a deep theological tome would be too much for me to ingest. But when I read Suffering Is Never For Nothing, I can see Elisabeth's tall thin frame standing behind a lectern, with her soft but authoritative voice sharing God's Word through her life story.
And again I thank God for the way His grace in Elisabeth's life is able to strengthen me.
الخميس، 18 أبريل 2019
Bookmarks: Picture Books on Inventors
I love the recent trend that has produced many lovely picture-book biographies. These books aren't just for young children; even older children will enjoy the introduction to famous, and not so famous, inventors.
This post contains affiliate links.
by Judith St. George, illustrated by David Small
Short blurbs on many inventors and fun illustrations make this book a winner for any child who dreams of inventing the next spectacular widget.
by James Rumford
Rumford uses lovely water-color paintings to describe what Gutenberg needed to print his first books. Also check out Johann Gutenberg and the Amazing Printing Press by Bruce Koscienlniak which traces the history of printing throughout history.
by Gene Barretta
How could one man give us everything from a postal service, bifocals, and world-changing documents? This book shares the practical brilliance of Ben Franklin which impacts our world today. Look for other books by this author such as Timeless Thomas: How Thomas Edison Changed Our Lives.
by Pat Miller, illustrated by Vincent X. Kirsch
Hanson Gregory was only a teenager when he invented the breakfast treat that millions enjoy. Learn of his brave deeds and colorful history along with the true story of the doughnut.
You might recognize the famous green tractors, but do you know how the John Deere Company began? Bright comic-style illustrations share the story of frustrated farmers and a struggling blacksmith. You may also like John Deere, That's Who! By Tracy Nelson Maurer, illustrated by Tim Zeltner.
written and illustrated by Emily Arnold McCully
She may have been young, and she may have been a girl, but that didn't keep Mattie from loving tools and building things. Mattie's invention of the paper bag is still used today. Soft illustrations show Mattie's life and sketchbook.
by Peter Busby, illustrated by David Craig
From a toy helicopter to bicycles to gliders, and, finally, the first powered airplane – these brothers’ hard work paid off. Richly detailed paintings and period photographs share their story in fascinating detail.
by Jen Bryant, illustrations by Boris Kulikow
Most boys would have given up, but young Louis was determined to read even though he was blind. Braille was still a child when he invented the Braille alphabet. The child-friendly illustrations help tell the story of this young inventor.
by Catherine Thimmesh, illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Windshield wipers and chocolate chip cookies are only two of the products you’ll learn about in this book with its short chapters. Learn about women who turned a good idea into a useful invention.
by Chris Barton, illustrated by Don Tate
Lonnie loved to build action toys. Even when he became a real rocket scientist, he didn't stop inventing. Bright illustrations introduce children to a modern inventor and scientist.
I only shared a few of the picture-book biographies on this list. I hope to share more soon. You can also check out my book list page.
الجمعة، 12 أبريل 2019
Unmeasured
Last week was intense. For three days Ed had chemo infusion which meant leaving early to get to the clinic. Once there we had a few relaxing hours while Ed had the infusion. I brought my laptop and caught up with email and placed my orders for next year's school curriculum. Only a mom of six would consider sitting in a doctor's office as a peaceful break.
Since Ed's brain tumor is so aggressive, chemo probably won't do more than slow its growth - if that. I was worried that the chemo would make Ed sick with little benefit. But Ed felt great all week and was never nauseous.
Since we had a break in the rain, Ed's nephew tilled the garden and the children helped plant onions, sugar peas, potatoes, and broccoli.
Spring is a reminder that life continues. God doesn't change despite my current circumstances. He is still in control of the earth's rotation, and He'll continue to carry us in His vast, unmeasured love.
O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus
by Samuel T. Francis
Hymns of the Church #291
Since Ed's brain tumor is so aggressive, chemo probably won't do more than slow its growth - if that. I was worried that the chemo would make Ed sick with little benefit. But Ed felt great all week and was never nauseous.
At the end of the week, I spent parts of two days at a writers' conference. The workshops were wonderful, but I enjoyed the social interaction even more. Writers often tend to be introverted loners, but, get a whole group of them together, and the room was full of crackling passion. I loved meeting some of you that I've only known through email.
I may have enjoyed it even more since I didn't know if I would be able to attend this year. I'm so grateful for my family who made it possible. But I doubt I'll leave that long again. Ed continues to decline, but I'm used to caring for him. We are learning the things that make it easier to function, even if it is hard to admit they are needed. Today we got a wheelchair. His left leg is dragging more making it harder to walk. We also stopped physical therapy. Though it feels like we are giving up, we need to face reality.
Ed would tell you that he feels well; he has no pain or headaches. He talks very little, but enjoys visitors. In many ways he is childlike, agreeably doing what he is told, though on rare occasions acting like a stubborn two-year-old. To be honest Ed and I have less conflict now than a few months ago when I'd get frustrated when it seemed like he wouldn't try harder. I know, I wasn't being reasonable and I'm not proud of my attitude. Now his limits are more obvious.
This week we've had no appointments, and we spent several afternoon enjoying the spring weather and cleaning up the yard. I thank God for my little girls who cuddle baby kittens, give wonderful hugs, and help keep me sane.
I might be crazy for planting a garden, but last year I found pulling weeds was therapeutic after a doctor appointment. I figured I might need the relief this year too.
Since we had a break in the rain, Ed's nephew tilled the garden and the children helped plant onions, sugar peas, potatoes, and broccoli.
Spring is a reminder that life continues. God doesn't change despite my current circumstances. He is still in control of the earth's rotation, and He'll continue to carry us in His vast, unmeasured love.
O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus
by Samuel T. Francis
Hymns of the Church #291
O the deep, deep love of Jesus, vast, unmeasured, boundless, free!
Rolling as a mighty ocean in its fullness over me!
Underneath me, all around me, is the current of Thy love
Leading onward, leading homeward to Thy glorious rest above!
Rolling as a mighty ocean in its fullness over me!
Underneath me, all around me, is the current of Thy love
Leading onward, leading homeward to Thy glorious rest above!
O the deep, deep love of Jesus, spread His praise from shore to shore!
How He loveth, ever loveth, changeth never, nevermore!
How He watches o'er His loved ones, died to call them all His own;
How for them He intercedeth, watcheth o'er them from the throne!
How He loveth, ever loveth, changeth never, nevermore!
How He watches o'er His loved ones, died to call them all His own;
How for them He intercedeth, watcheth o'er them from the throne!
O the deep, deep love of Jesus, love of every love the best!
'Tis an ocean vast of blessing, 'tis a haven sweet of rest!
O the deep, deep love of Jesus, 'tis a heaven of heavens to me;
And it lifts me up to glory, for it lifts me up to Thee!
'Tis an ocean vast of blessing, 'tis a haven sweet of rest!
O the deep, deep love of Jesus, 'tis a heaven of heavens to me;
And it lifts me up to glory, for it lifts me up to Thee!
الخميس، 11 أبريل 2019
Giveaway Winner and Unexpected Kindness
Thanks to all who joined the giveaway for The Sugar Shack. It was fun hearing how your enjoy maple syrup.
Random.org chose Ruth Anna as the winner of a copy of The Sugar Shack.
To order you own copy of The Sugar Shack or My First Deer Hunt, email florencejfox at gmail.com . Cost of one book is $8.99. Michigan readers pay 6% sales tax. Payment by check is preferred. All book orders will have free shipping until May 31, 2019.
Thanks, Flo, for making this giveaway possible.
Authors must be generous folks.
Last week I had a surprising email from Robert Kurson, the author of Rocket Men which I had briefly mentioned in a blog post. He offered to send a package to our children.
A few days later we found a fun package in the mail. The box contained a copy of the Rocket Men audio book, two tiny pieces of actual moon rock, and a "first day of issue" envelopes with the Apollo 8 stamp from May 5, 1969 in Houston, Texas for each of the children.
I love that this stamp has the words of Genesis 1 that the astronauts on Apollo 8 quoted on their Christmas Day report from the moon that was broadcasted throughout the world. One a fun slice of history for our children.
This post contains affiliate links.
الخميس، 4 أبريل 2019
Giveaway - The Sugar Shack
Here in Pennsylvania, the maple sugar season is drawing to a close.
But at my friend Flo's house in Michigan, the sap is still running.
Flo's children help collect and cook sap. In Flo's newest book, The Sugar Shack, her daughter Kenzie gives us a tour through the woods and into the sugar shack explaining the process of turning sap into syrup. Full-color photos help those of us who've never watched the process to understand.
Flo includes facts about maple syrup at the end of the book and shares a few of her favorite recipes incorporating maple syrup. If you are a long time reader, you may have enjoyed Flo's wonderful coffee cake recipes.
Flo is giving away a copy of The Sugar Shack to a Home Joys reader. To enter the giveaway, please let a comment, give us your email address, and share your favorite way to enjoy maple syrup.
To order you own copy of The Sugar Shack, email florencejfox at gmail.com . Cost of one book is $8.99. Michigan readers pay 6% sales tax. Payment by check is preferred. All book orders will have free shipping until May 31, 2019.
You may also enjoy My First Deer Hunt in which Flo's son Laramie shares the story of bow hunting with his dad. Like The Sugar Shack, it is written from a child's perspective for children ages 4-7 and illustrated with full-color photos. Ordering information and price are the same for both books.
But at my friend Flo's house in Michigan, the sap is still running.
Flo includes facts about maple syrup at the end of the book and shares a few of her favorite recipes incorporating maple syrup. If you are a long time reader, you may have enjoyed Flo's wonderful coffee cake recipes.
Flo is giving away a copy of The Sugar Shack to a Home Joys reader. To enter the giveaway, please let a comment, give us your email address, and share your favorite way to enjoy maple syrup.
To order you own copy of The Sugar Shack, email florencejfox at gmail.com . Cost of one book is $8.99. Michigan readers pay 6% sales tax. Payment by check is preferred. All book orders will have free shipping until May 31, 2019.
You may also enjoy My First Deer Hunt in which Flo's son Laramie shares the story of bow hunting with his dad. Like The Sugar Shack, it is written from a child's perspective for children ages 4-7 and illustrated with full-color photos. Ordering information and price are the same for both books.
Giveaway will be open for one week and is open to readers with a US postal address.
الاثنين، 1 أبريل 2019
Friendships and Resurrection Hymns
Years ago Ed's church youth group had a tradition of going Easter caroling. They'd get up early on Easter Sunday and visit the elderly people from church and celebrate the resurrection by singing Easter hymns.
Easter is an ignored holiday, but this youth activity made it special.
Last night, several of Ed's friends from his youth group days came to our house. Since most of us have children now, the ranks had grown. We managed to squeeze 50 people into our house, though the majority was little bodies.
Though we are a few weeks early, we sang some of favorite Easter hymns as well as some of Ed's favorite hymns. Then we chowed on snacks, the children played, and the adults laughed over long-ago memories.
Old friends are a treasure.
Friends that remember the crazy events from our past.
Friends that have grown and matured with us through the years.
Friends that help carry our burdens.
Friends that remind us of our risen Lord.
This week Ed is going to have three days of chemo treatments. We needed the reminder of the power of our risen Lord to walk with us through our hardest days.
This week Ed is going to have three days of chemo treatments. We needed the reminder of the power of our risen Lord to walk with us through our hardest days.
A few favorite lines from the songs last night -
Death cannot keep his prey - Jesus my Saviour!
He tore the bars away - Jesus my Lord! - Robert Lowry
But Jesus hath cheered the dark valley of sorrow,
And bade us, immortal, to heaven ascent;
Lift then your voices in triumph on high,
For Jesus hath risen, and man shall not die. - Henry Ware
Love's redeeming work is done, Hallelujah!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Hallelujah! - Charles Wesley
الأربعاء، 27 مارس 2019
Mocha Cake
I wouldn't have thought anyone could beat my mom's chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting, but when we were in North Carolina one of the ladies made this cake. The mild coffee flavor enhances the chocolate perfectly.
I came home and immediately made this cake for my family.
This photo was taken right before I enjoyed the last piece. SO good.
Mocha Cake
1 ¾ c. flour
2 cup sugar
¾ c. cocoa powder
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. Kosher salt
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup hot coffee
Preheat oven to 350. Grease a 9 x 13 cake pan or two 9 inch round cake pans.
Mix dry ingredients in bowl. In another bowl combine all wet ingredients except coffee. Mix wet and dry ingredients together on low speed, then add coffee until just combined.
Pour batter in greased pan (or pans) and bake for 35-40 minutes. Cool in pans for 30 minutes then gently remove and place on cooling racks till cooled completely.
Mocha Frosting
6 oz. semisweet chocolate
2 sticks butter, softened
1 egg yolk
1 tsp. vanilla
1 ¼ c. powdered sugar
1 tbsp. instant coffee powder
Melt chocolate. Beat butter until fluffy. Add egg yolk and vanilla. On low speed gradually add the powdered sugar. Dissolve the coffee powder in a small amount of very hot tap water. Slowly add chocolate and coffee to butter mixture until blended. Spread immediately on cool cake.
السبت، 23 مارس 2019
Off the Shelf
Most of the books I read are middle-grade fiction that I'm pre-reading for my children, but here are a few adult books that I read (and loved) this winter.
This post contains affiliate links. If you click over to Amazon and make any purchase, you'll help support this site.
This post contains affiliate links. If you click over to Amazon and make any purchase, you'll help support this site.
The Lake House by Kate Morton
I read almost no adult fiction. I feel like I don't have time to read fiction when there is so much nonfiction that I want to read. Plus I tend to lose sleep when I'm reading a good fiction story. But occasionally, I like to pick up a well-written fiction. And The Lake House was worth it.
This book begins in the 1920's when a child disappeared from a sea-side estate then jumps to 2003 when a detective is researching this cold case. The child's sisters are now elderly ladies who think they know what happened those many years ago, but soon they learn that there is much they didn't know.
I love a detective story that keeps me guessing "who dun it " the whole way through. Morton is a master at characterization and each character seemed real to me. There is a very small amount of profanity and a mention of adultery in the book, but not in a sensual manner.
I like to read a good writing book at least once a year. This book was written by a Pulitzer Prize winning author and his editor. The two of them worked together for decades, and I loved listening to their writing and editing process. Unlike many writing books, this one didn't contain questionable excerpts to wade through. Highly recommended for any writer.
Rocket Men: The Daring Odyssey of Apollo 8 and the Astronauts Who Made Man's First Journey to the Moon
by Robert Kurson
Ed and I started this nonfiction audio on our trips to the city for his doctor appointments, but then we finished listening to them with the whole family and my boys couldn't get enough.
I'm not even interested in space travel, but Rocket Men held my attention until the very end. This is a great example of nonfiction story-telling. It contained some profanity (direct quotes) that I wish the author would have omitted, but not bad enough that I couldn't let my children listen.
And an extra because I can't quit talking to my friends about this book...
Okay for Now by Gary D. Schmidt
I think this was my favorite book I read last year. It might have even landed on my top-ten books list.
Okay for Now is listed as a middle-grade novel though I would recommend it for teens or older. Schmidt nails perfectly the voice of Doug, a struggling teen who has just moved to The Dump in a stupid town in northern New York. I rooted for Doug as he makes new friends and discovered hidden abilities. I finished the story in awe of how the author put me into the head of a troubled teenager in a dysfunctional home.
Okay for Now is listed as a middle-grade novel though I would recommend it for teens or older. Schmidt nails perfectly the voice of Doug, a struggling teen who has just moved to The Dump in a stupid town in northern New York. I rooted for Doug as he makes new friends and discovered hidden abilities. I finished the story in awe of how the author put me into the head of a troubled teenager in a dysfunctional home.
Okay For Now is an example of how what the author doesn't tell you is as important as what he does tell you. I could give examples, but then I might give too much away. And I really want you to read this book. (There is a small amount of romance including a quick kiss.)
This book would be perfect for anyone who works with troubled teens, especially teachers. It is set in 1969 (think the Space Race and Vietnam War) and masterfully combines John James Audubon's paintings. I finished this book with a longing that every book was written this well. Okay for Now is a sequel to Wednesday Wars, but can be read alone. But, if you enjoy one, you'll want to read them both.
What are you reading?
الثلاثاء، 19 مارس 2019
I Know Whom I Have Believed
When your husband is told he has aggressive brain cancer, life changes. Plans change. Your dreams change from imagining growing old to hoping we can enjoy Christmas.
You begin to be thankful for a smile across the table, a warm hug, holding hands on a walk around the yard.
It has been almost two yeas since Ed was diagnosed with GBM. By some reports, only 5% of GBM patients survive two years. We are grateful God gave us many good months with Ed. But no amount of time will never feel like enough. It is hard to know that Ed's future life on earth is likely to be counted by months.
Lunch at the Clinical Center
Our visits with Ed's doctors have confirmed our suspicion. Since this is the third progression of Ed's tumor, he has limited medical options. We can try more treatment, but it is doubtful that it will extend Ed's life by more than a few months. Please pray for us as we make decisions.
(Just a note, please don't send us information on an alternative medical treatment that you have read about online. I've spent untold hours researching brain cancer, so it is not likely you'll tell me anything new.)
In the meantime, we are enjoying glimpses of spring. Last week was lovely with warmer temperatures, and we all tried to soak in some sunshine.
Now the weather is cold again and spring feels a long way away.
I'm glad for a few forsythia branches that I brought into the house to force into bloom. They give me hope that spring is coming soon.
My sister gave us her piano since our old piano had some broken keys. We are enjoying making music again.
A new piano prompted a reorganization of some other furniture, which gave us room for a new...well....I'll save that for another post.
A song that has been playing through my head recently is based on 2 Timothy 1. This chapter has so many great verses. Here is a few excerpts.
I Know Whom I Have Believed
by David W. Whittle
You begin to be thankful for a smile across the table, a warm hug, holding hands on a walk around the yard.
It has been almost two yeas since Ed was diagnosed with GBM. By some reports, only 5% of GBM patients survive two years. We are grateful God gave us many good months with Ed. But no amount of time will never feel like enough. It is hard to know that Ed's future life on earth is likely to be counted by months.
Lunch at the Clinical Center
Our visits with Ed's doctors have confirmed our suspicion. Since this is the third progression of Ed's tumor, he has limited medical options. We can try more treatment, but it is doubtful that it will extend Ed's life by more than a few months. Please pray for us as we make decisions.
(Just a note, please don't send us information on an alternative medical treatment that you have read about online. I've spent untold hours researching brain cancer, so it is not likely you'll tell me anything new.)
In the meantime, we are enjoying glimpses of spring. Last week was lovely with warmer temperatures, and we all tried to soak in some sunshine.
I'm glad for a few forsythia branches that I brought into the house to force into bloom. They give me hope that spring is coming soon.
My sister gave us her piano since our old piano had some broken keys. We are enjoying making music again.
A new piano prompted a reorganization of some other furniture, which gave us room for a new...well....I'll save that for another post.
A song that has been playing through my head recently is based on 2 Timothy 1. This chapter has so many great verses. Here is a few excerpts.
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord...
Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus...
Who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel...
For I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. (2 Timothy 1:7-12)
I Know Whom I Have Believed
by David W. Whittle
- I know not why God’s wondrous grace
To me He hath made known,
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own.- Refrain:
But “I know Whom I have believed,
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I’ve committed
Unto Him against that day.”
- Refrain:
- I know not how this saving faith
To me He did impart,
Nor how believing in His Word
Wrought peace within my heart. - I know not how the Spirit moves,
Convincing men of sin,
Revealing Jesus through the Word,
Creating faith in Him. - I know not what of good or ill
May be reserved for me,
Of weary ways or golden days,
Before His face I see. - I know not when my Lord may come,
At night or noonday fair,
Nor if I walk the vale with Him,
Or meet Him in the air.
You can listen to the hymn below. (If reading by email, click over to the blog.)
الأحد، 10 مارس 2019
See The Conqueror
Several of you have asked if we have support.
We do. We feel supported in both practical ways and through prayers and encouragement.
I'll give this week as an example. We have revival meetings at our church this week. My family set up a schedule (without me asking) for someone to stay with Ed each evening so the rest of us could attend church.
Several people brought meals this week, in fact, we were given so many meals that some had to be frozen. Since November, my freezer has never run out of meals. For months I have cooked only when I felt like it. If I feel busy or Ed had a appointment, I go to the freezer and decide if I'm hungry for soup, lasagna, or chicken/rice casserole. Meals might be the way that Mennonites show love best. For a mom going through a stressful time, having meals prepared is a huge blessing.
Sometimes I feel almost guilty. I have friends who are going through difficult times. They need support as much as I do, maybe more. But since their needs are quieter, they are not the getting meals, cards, and gifts of cash that we are.
I'm glad not everyone has bold needs like a husband with brain cancer. But I hope that I can be one who supports others who have pain that no one talks about at prayer meeting.
This week our family's needs felt large. Since Ed has been declining, his doctor decided to push up his MRI. Because of a cancellation, we were able to get his MRI quickly. The MRI showed that Ed's tumor is now growing in a new area of his brain.
I wasn't shocked; Ed's symptoms had to be caused by something. But I had held onto hope that there would be a different cause. Something easily fixable. Now that hope is gone.
This is the third time we've received news of tumor progression. In some ways it gets harder each time since Ed's options for treatment are dwindling. Glioblastoma tends to adapt and morph into new forms. Ed's specific form of GBM is super aggressive. We are so thankful that treatment has given Ed more time than the average, but we sure wish the statistics were not stacked against him.
Which is why I was grateful for the services this week. Revival week is always busy, and because of appointments we were not able to go every night. But each of the services were a blessing. To hear the Word of God, to hear the Truth applied to our everyday lives, and to be reminded of Hope in Jesus is soul strengthening.
I find myself being drawn to hymns that remind me of God's glory. The first night we sang See The Conqueror Mounts in Triumph. These words tell of Christ's power over sin and the grave.
We do. We feel supported in both practical ways and through prayers and encouragement.
I'll give this week as an example. We have revival meetings at our church this week. My family set up a schedule (without me asking) for someone to stay with Ed each evening so the rest of us could attend church.
Several people brought meals this week, in fact, we were given so many meals that some had to be frozen. Since November, my freezer has never run out of meals. For months I have cooked only when I felt like it. If I feel busy or Ed had a appointment, I go to the freezer and decide if I'm hungry for soup, lasagna, or chicken/rice casserole. Meals might be the way that Mennonites show love best. For a mom going through a stressful time, having meals prepared is a huge blessing.
Sometimes I feel almost guilty. I have friends who are going through difficult times. They need support as much as I do, maybe more. But since their needs are quieter, they are not the getting meals, cards, and gifts of cash that we are.
I'm glad not everyone has bold needs like a husband with brain cancer. But I hope that I can be one who supports others who have pain that no one talks about at prayer meeting.
This week our family's needs felt large. Since Ed has been declining, his doctor decided to push up his MRI. Because of a cancellation, we were able to get his MRI quickly. The MRI showed that Ed's tumor is now growing in a new area of his brain.
I wasn't shocked; Ed's symptoms had to be caused by something. But I had held onto hope that there would be a different cause. Something easily fixable. Now that hope is gone.
This is the third time we've received news of tumor progression. In some ways it gets harder each time since Ed's options for treatment are dwindling. Glioblastoma tends to adapt and morph into new forms. Ed's specific form of GBM is super aggressive. We are so thankful that treatment has given Ed more time than the average, but we sure wish the statistics were not stacked against him.
Which is why I was grateful for the services this week. Revival week is always busy, and because of appointments we were not able to go every night. But each of the services were a blessing. To hear the Word of God, to hear the Truth applied to our everyday lives, and to be reminded of Hope in Jesus is soul strengthening.
I find myself being drawn to hymns that remind me of God's glory. The first night we sang See The Conqueror Mounts in Triumph. These words tell of Christ's power over sin and the grave.
See the Conqueror Mounts In Triumph
By Christopher Wordsworth
Hymns of the Church #260
See, the Conqueror mounts in triumph; See the King in royal state,
Riding on the clouds, His chariot, To His heavenly palace gate.
Hark! the choirs of angel voices Joyful alleluias sing,
And the portals high are lifted To receive their heavenly King.
Who is this that comes in glory, With the trump of jubilee?
Lord of battles, God of armies, He has gained the victory.
He who on the cross did suffer, He who from the grave arose,
He has vanquished sin and Satan, He by death has spoiled His foes.
He has raised our human nature In the clouds to God’s right hand;
There we sit in heavenly places, There with Him in glory stand:
Jesus reigns, adored by angels; Man with God is on the throne;
Mighty Lord, in Thine ascension We by faith behold our own.
Glory be to God the Father, glory be to God the Son,
Dying, risen, ascending for us, Who the heavenly realm has won;
Glory to the Holy Spirit, To one God in persons Three;
Glory both in earth and heaven, Glory, endless glory, be.
السبت، 2 مارس 2019
الخميس، 28 فبراير 2019
Keto Lemon Meringue Custard
I've experimented with a lot of keto recipes. I found that baked recipes such as cake and cookies are difficult to get a good texture. But custards and puddings are very easy to make for a keto diet which is very high in fat and low in carbs.
This recipe has been a favorite. You could pour the custard into a low-carb pie crust for pie, but I just serve it as custard. It is pretty enough to serve to guests.
Keto Lemon Meringue Custard
Custard:
1/2 tsp stevia (or 1 T Truvia)
1/2 tsp xanthan gum (optional)
1/8 tsp salt
1/2 T lemon juice
1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 egg yolks
1/2 tsp lemon extract
Meringue:
2 egg whites
1/8 tsp cream of tartar
1/8 tsp stevia
1/8 tsp vanilla
For custard: in saucepan combine stevia, xanthan gum (if using), salt, and lemon juice. Whisk in cream. Combine well. Whisk in egg yolks. Cook on medium heat, stirring often. When mixture simmers, remove from heat and add extract. Pour into four 4-oz ramekins or other oven-safe serving dish. (I use 1-cup Pyrex dishes.)
Immediately prepare meringue. In small bowl, whip egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Add stevia and vanilla and beat at high speed until stiff peaks form. Spoon meringue over each custard pushing to the edge to seal.
Place custards in oven a few inches under broiler and broil at high heat for 30-60 seconds until just beginning to brown on tips of meringue. Cool. Serve.
This recipe has been a favorite. You could pour the custard into a low-carb pie crust for pie, but I just serve it as custard. It is pretty enough to serve to guests.
Keto Lemon Meringue Custard
Custard:
1/2 tsp stevia (or 1 T Truvia)
1/2 tsp xanthan gum (optional)
1/8 tsp salt
1/2 T lemon juice
1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 egg yolks
1/2 tsp lemon extract
Meringue:
2 egg whites
1/8 tsp cream of tartar
1/8 tsp stevia
1/8 tsp vanilla
For custard: in saucepan combine stevia, xanthan gum (if using), salt, and lemon juice. Whisk in cream. Combine well. Whisk in egg yolks. Cook on medium heat, stirring often. When mixture simmers, remove from heat and add extract. Pour into four 4-oz ramekins or other oven-safe serving dish. (I use 1-cup Pyrex dishes.)
Immediately prepare meringue. In small bowl, whip egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Add stevia and vanilla and beat at high speed until stiff peaks form. Spoon meringue over each custard pushing to the edge to seal.
Place custards in oven a few inches under broiler and broil at high heat for 30-60 seconds until just beginning to brown on tips of meringue. Cool. Serve.
الاثنين، 25 فبراير 2019
Keto Chocolate Custard
Ed isn't strictly following his keto diet anymore. After a year and a half of a radical diet, he wanted a little more flexibility. But I still cook a lot of keto food for him.
This recipe is one of his favorites. I adapted this recipe from my mother-in-law's chocolate pie that we enjoy every New Year's Day. It does contain raw eggs.
Keto Chocolate Custard
1 1/2 T cocoa
2 1/2 T coconut oil
1 T heavy whipping cream
2 eggs, divided
1/4 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp pure powered stevia (could use Truvia or other sweetener to taste)
Melt coconut oil and mix cocoa and whipping cream. Stir in egg yolks well. Add vanilla and stevia and mix well. In separate bowl beat egg whites until stiff. Fold egg whites into chocolate mixture. Pour into bowl and chill. Serve with whipped cream and cocao nibs.
I place this into two small glass 1-cup bowls. The servings are small but rich.
This recipe is one of his favorites. I adapted this recipe from my mother-in-law's chocolate pie that we enjoy every New Year's Day. It does contain raw eggs.
Keto Chocolate Custard
1 1/2 T cocoa
2 1/2 T coconut oil
1 T heavy whipping cream
2 eggs, divided
1/4 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp pure powered stevia (could use Truvia or other sweetener to taste)
Melt coconut oil and mix cocoa and whipping cream. Stir in egg yolks well. Add vanilla and stevia and mix well. In separate bowl beat egg whites until stiff. Fold egg whites into chocolate mixture. Pour into bowl and chill. Serve with whipped cream and cocao nibs.
I place this into two small glass 1-cup bowls. The servings are small but rich.
الاشتراك في:
الرسائل (Atom)