Thursday Tidbits

{real} Little miss has been going through another round of teething. This time, it was her molars coming in, and let me just say, boy howdy. We all lost a LOT of sleep, and spent a lot of time just holding her. She really just wanted her daddy. On Friday, she had been crying for him, and when he got home from work she snuggled right up to him and finally fell asleep. I think it's kind of amazing that they understand at such a young age that daddy's are a safe place, and can always make you feel better. Josh may pretend it doesn't phase him, but he's a total pool of mush. I'm not fooled. ;)

{happy} I've been making time to read a little each day. I usually get a good half hour to myself during the day (sometimes more if I'm caught up with housework). But mainly, the early mornings are my "me" time. I finished up these two books within the last week, and both were wonderful, although entirely different story lines. I picked up "Where Courage Calls" by Janette Oke because I had recently started watching "When Calls The Heart" (Based on the earlier novels by Oke) on Netflix. It is SO good! If you were a fan of the "Love Comes Softly" Movie series, you'd probably enjoy it. I realize it is borderline cheesy, but honestly, I'm all about cheesey Hallmark goodness. Also, Janette Oke will always be one of my favorite Christian fiction authors. I've read most of her books, minus the ones she co-wrote with T. Davis Bunn. I guess I need to find copies of them soon.

{funny} I'll spare a picture of this one, and just share a funny from "mom life". This morning, we had a slow start. I turned on cartoons for Evie while I prepped coffee & muffins for breakfast (obviously, the coffee is for me, haha). I caught up with a few blogs, finished the last few pages in the book above, and set out breakfast for Evie. I was thinking what a nice morning it was. Until, I realized Evie had a blow out diaper & I forgot to put new wipes on her changing table. :D How many times will I do that before I learn my lesson? I may never know. Or rather, want to know. Now, excuse me while I go re-stock the nursery.

Linking Up: PHFR

Reservations For Two

When I first heard about the Two Blue Doors series, I had mixed feelings. Trying out new authors is a bit like going on a date. You really don't know what to expect. It can either feel "right" or just "off".  When you get a "right", you are generally happy to move on to the second date, or in this case, second book.

Thankfully, Hillary Manton Lodge's first book was right on so many levels. I just loved the slow-paced aspect of the book, which is actually rare for me. However, Lodge so perfectly weaves the story line you find yourself falling more in love with each character. The story unfolds with seasoned grace, and just enough twists to keep you wondering what will happen next.

Her second novel, Reservations for Two, absolutely stole my attention. I have to say I actually liked it better than the first. By the time you sink into the second novel you are fully aware of all the stakes involved of our main character, Juliette, and the supporting roles.

Juliette is facing major life changes on many levels. With her new career, budding relationship, and the heartbreak of possibly losing her mother to cancer, she learns to rise above and conquer what she really wants out of life. The ending of the book provided quite the surprise for me. Perhaps, I should have seen it coming, but I figured the novel would have a typical fairy tale ending. Not quite. Honestly, I think that's why I loved it so much. Authors who are brave enough to throw a cog in a story line show a lot of courage. And I love that!

Oh, and did I mention the recipes? I love reading about Juliette cooking up a storm to relive stress or to impress her friends. I can't wait to try a few of them out myself.

I'm giving this one a hearty five stars! A million thanks to the kind folks at Blogging for Books for my copy. I will be standing in line for the third novel.

A Favorite Children's Author

I really have a weakness for vintage books. One of my favorite authors that my mom introduced me to as a kid was Tasha Tudor. Her illustrations are gorgeous, and many of her stories are very wholesome. One of my favorite books by her is actually just a collection of illustrations that go along with Psalms 23. It's a perfect bed time story. I've found a few more of her books here and there while thrifting around town. I think they will be wonderful outlets to incorporate into homeschooling Evie one day.

Do you enjoy vintage books?

Happy Homemaker Monday Vol. 4

Weather Outside:

Slightly overcast. 

Making Me Happy:

We were able to get a few things accomplished over the weekend (and by we, I mean, mainly Josh). I like getting things knocked off the "to do" list. ;)

Menu This Week:

Monday: Crockpot Chicken & Veggies
Tuesday: Turkey Sausage & Sauteed Cabbage
Wednesday: Out
Thursday: Barbeque Meatballs & Veggies
Friday: Mexican Eggs

Around My House:

Evie is watching a leap frog video, I just sat down with my coffee to catch up on blogging. :) 

Today's To Do List:

~Laundry ( I am SO behind, haha)
~Clean Bathrooms
~Sweep & Swiffer
~Finish Evie's Photo Book
~Get Crock Pot Going
~Activity Time with Evie (this is something new I'm hoping to implement)

Looking Forward To This Week:

Having a little family get together for Evie's belated birthday celebration.

Currently Reading:

Unbroken by Laure Hillenbrand

Lesson Learned:

It's important who you choose as close friends. It may sound so cliche, but allowing a negative influence to rub off on you can REALLY wreak havoc on your soul. I'm dealing with this right now, and frankly, I'm at a loss.

On My Mind:

Spend more time in God's word. Finding a group to fellowship with (Bible study?). Making prayer a high priority. 

Verse:
 "This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast..." Hebrews 6:19

I love the above verse. I actually printed it off and had it framed earlier this year. It has been a balm to my soul throughout every day struggles. Whenever I begin to doubt or question different situations, I am reminded that He is still my hope. He is our achor, and will always be there for us. No matter what.

Happy Homemaker Monday (I don't think there is an actualy link up this week...but I wanted to post anyway. ;-))

A Thankful Post

Today, I am thankful for so many things. Little things.

Baby toes (so kissable!).
A last minute ice cream date with my main man.
Little every day reminders that He cares for all things.
Momentos of the sweetest first year with our daughter.
Finding a few minutes here & there to read.
Sermons that make you ponder & think.
New crock pot meals that the hubby enjoys.

What are you thankful for today?