About Me

My photo
I have been a stay at home mom since Oct 31st 2006. My children started school in 2008, so I decided it was time for me to go back, too. I have been a full time student for over two years now, and it seems like I am learning about more than just my schoolwork.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Mothers and Daughters

I try to stagger my posts, so you get a mix of my life and the books I read, but sometimes I find it very hard to do that. And I consider some of the books I read part of my learning process. And part of my life. Like the book I finished reading today, called "Mercy Come Morning" by Lisa Tawn Bergren. I am very blessed to be a part of these reviews. Not only do I get to read great books for free, but sometimes I get them before everyone else. This book isn't set for release for another 5 days, but I have it here in my hand.

This is a story of a mother and daughter, lost to each other, but slowly finding their way back. Charlotte suffers from Alzheimer's, and Krista struggles to find compassion for a mother who seemingly had no compassion for her. Through letters and notes, Krista discovers her mother's past and feelings. This brings understanding and closure to Krista's childhood.

When Charlotte finally goes to Heaven, Krista has a peace that only comes from God. The closure she has with her mother allows her to grow in other relationships. My relationship with my Mom was nothing like the relationship that Krista had with Charlotte, but at the end I can relate to Krista's feelings on losing her Mom. I see a lot of the hardships my Mom faced with ALS in the hardships Charlotte dealt with as an Alzheimer's patient.

Normally I skip past the author's "To the Reader" letter in the back of the book, but for some reason I read this one. I definitely ask that anyone who reads this story finishes it with that letter.

My final grade for this book is a five out of five. I seem to be giving those a lot, but there are a lot of great books out there. If you know someone with Alzheimer's, if you've ever lost a mother, or if you are just interested in a good read, I recommend this book to you.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Stained Glass Hearts

The good people at Thomas Nelson have sent me a new book, Stained Glass Hearts, written by Patsy Clairmont. Mrs. Clairmont is not only a best selling author, but she also speaks at Women of Faith conferences.


This book is written for creative and artistic people. Every different type of media is covered, from music to poetry to priceless works of art. At the end of each chapter is a section called the Art Gallery, which features different media that corresponds with the message just given.  As with many of the books I review, be prepared to have Google up and waiting. While her descriptions are accurate, you cannot fully comprehend the beauty of Mother and Child without seeing it for yourself. And the music she recommends definitely should be heard.


Patsy's style of writing is colorful, funny, and unapologetic. It doesn't seem as if she hides anything from you. Many of her comments mirror my own thoughts and feelings. It's as if she's read my heart. Well, if she hasn't, than my Heavenly Father sure has.

I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars. And I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for inspiration.  

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Another Summer Over

August 9th marks the last day of the summer 2011 season. On one hand, I am relieved, but on the other I want it to go on forever. My kids are growing up--I'm not sure if I'm ready for that yet. The stress of my school year is already getting to me, and I still have 2 weeks. OR, you could say I only have two weeks. Books to buy, classes to prepare for, kids to take care of, houses to clean. The list goes on and on.

Despite it all, I look forward to the final reward. Having that silly little piece of paper means so much to me, I don't think I can stand it. Right now, I am not even sure what classes I am taking this semester, I just know there is going to be a lot of them.

For sure, I am taking experimental photography. And I know that I am going to experiment with fiber paper and paints. We'll see what happens.

I wanted to get my darkroom out, there's a few contests and things going on in the next month, and I wanted to turn in some of my work. The problem I am having now is buying the matte board that I need in order to present my pictures well. That stuff is expensive.

Ok, I really need to go research textbook prices now, and I have to get everything ready for the kids' first day of school. **sigh**