Thursday, June 30, 2016

Books and Beans {June}

Hello summer!  I've had a lot of time to read this month due to staying up way past my bedtime, waiting for the boys at practices and getting up early to have some alone time.  You read that right; I'd rather read than sleep!

*COFFEE*

It was back to my non-sweetened creamer coffee this month.  However, I did discover that I love a good Colombian coffee to start my day.  They make several brands for the Keurig, and I love the bold coffee taste first thing in the morning.  This month, it was all about sipping strong coffee on the front porch while saying my morning prayers.  Love my summer routines!

*BOOKS*
(All book images from Amazon)

The Nest by: Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney
(2 out of 5 Stars)


I read this book after seeing all the hype on Amazon, Instagram and Goodreads.  I was so excited to finally get my hands on it.  And then....I did not like it!  I really wanted to connect with the characters, and care about the story line, but it just didn't happen for me.  The other reviews are fantastic, so it might just be me.  I was bored and had a hard time finishing the book.  The writing itself is good, so I gave it two out of 5 stars.

Divorcing a Narcissist:  One Mom's Battle by: Tina Marie Swithin
(4 out of 5 Stars)


If you or anyone you know has divorced someone with a personality disorder, you must share this book with them.  If you have never been involved with a person with a personality disorder, skip this book; you just won't understand unless you have been there.  This woman is such an inspiration with the way she fights for her kids.  If you or someone you know is going through a divorce, check out my devotion series for helping women through this difficult time.

Cancel the Wedding by: Carolyn T. Dingman
(4 out of 5 stars)


I. Loved. This. Book.  Anytime a new author hits it out of the park with her first novel, it makes me oh so happy!  This book contains all of the things I heart most about a good read; relatable characters who are searching for themselves, a bit of mystery and intrigue and a good love story.  This book was just plain fun.

(4 out of 5 Stars)



I read this book one chapter each morning during my morning Bible time.  I felt very convicted and energized to amp up my prayer life while reading this book.  I like the way they break down the process of prayer and give examples of how to incorporate that into your prayer time.  This will be a book that I pass on to a friend in the hopes that she finds it helpful too.

The Knockoff  by:  Lucy Sykes
(4 out of 5 Stars)



This book was also so, so good!  It is very Devil Wears Prada ish and I love anything that takes place in the fashion world of New York City.  The incorporation of how technology is changing the workplace is so smart.  A very enjoyable and fun book.

The Obsession by:  Nora Roberts
(3 out of 5 Stars)



Every once in a while, I like to read a good 'ole Nora Roberts romance.  The underlying story in this one is dark and depressing (so much so that I thought about chucking it before I'd finished the first chapter).  However, the story that follows is very good.  I love Robert's descriptions of old houses, decorating and food.  As always, you are rooting for the main character and missing her a bit when the book is done.

I am loving all of my extra reading time this summer!  Can't wait to see what July brings!

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Devotions Through Divorce~Week 2

The prudent see danger and seek refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it. ~Proverbs 27:12

When we find ourselves in a space where our marriage is crumbling and the life we are trying to cling to is slipping from our grasp, it is often our nature to feel the need to keep powering through on our own. There are times, however, when we need to see the danger for what it is, and find shelter from the storm. During a divorce, you are not seeking shelter to wait out the storm, but, rather, seeking shelter as a place to plan your steps after the storm has passed.

God is always waiting with open arms for us to fall into and rest. There we will find peace that surpasses all understanding.

This week, identify your safe havens; spaces, people, situations that make you feel loved and cared for. Find rest in God's word and let his promises pour over you and protect you from the storm that will eventually pass.