The Christmas Yes List

The Christmas Yes List

by Melissa Ferguson

This author has become and automatic must-read for me. I loved the characters, their banter, and their dry sense of humor. I loved the lessons learned about not going to extremes as either a people-pleaser or a narcissist. Loved the hints of Christian faith. And I especially LOVED, LOVED, LOVED the affirmation that homemaking is a valid and worthy choice of career!! Clean romance (kisses only--not graphic).

Notable quotes:

"A good partner isn't perfect -- as both your mama and I know -- and dry seasons and flood years in life will certainly come. But a good partner is one who can acknowledge when he or she makes a mistake, anchors their moral compass in the hands of the good Lord, and commits to growing in humility, honesty, respect, and love along the way. That person might not be flashy. They might not draw every eye in the room. But if they keep their promises, tell the truth, and show up when it counts -- that's the kind of love you can build a home on. That's the kind of man I want to see for you."

This is the kind of man I married, the kind of men I pray my sons will be, and the kind of men I pray my daughters will seek and find.

"And while there may be millions of women on this planet who can juggle both their jobs and these other things seamlessly, I can't.... Let the world do its rushing. Let women everywhere reach all their incredible dreams and save lives in operating rooms and lead meetings on top of skyscrapers. The world needs them. I wish them all the deep satisfaction in the world. But for me?... I just want a peaceful life. ...I've spent the past twenty years since kindergarten being asked what I want to be when I grow up, and I can't recall a single time anyone said 'I just want to keep a home, thank you very much' as a viable statement. ... And I'm fairly certain I'm not even allowed to mention such a secret desire before I'm married either. At best I'm supposed to tuck it away until the wedding bells have stopped ringing and I've popped out a baby or two and then maybe, maybe slip into that kind of life by accident. Certainly not on purpose or premeditated."

My sentiments EXACTLY!! Thank you, Melissa!

A physical copy was provided Goodreads. All opinions expressed are my own.

New Book Release -- Southern Sunshine by Dawn Wallis

 

Y'all, this is a fantastic book! Each of the 90 devotionals starts with a southern saying (many are familiar, but some are new to me), explains the origin and/or meaning of it, then relates it to a biblical principle or story, followed by application and prayer.

This author is new to me. I've been reading an advance copy as part of the launch team. I was hooked from the table of contents! I HIGHLY recommend this book!!

1. Bless Your Heart

2. Cattywampus

3. Pretty is as Pretty Does

4. Slower Than Molasses Running Uphill

5. Can't Never Could

6. Happier Than a Dead Pig in a Ditch

7. Highfalutin

8. Gimme Some Sugar

... and so it continues.

From Chapter 6 "Happier Than a Dead Pig in a Ditch":

"...to experience true joy, God's joy, we must spend time in His presence.  Practically speaking, that means praying, reading the Bible, and spending time with other Christians.  Then when joy-killers of life -- such as work stress, relationship stress, and financial stress -- roll in, we may struggle, but we won't sink. ... loving Jesus and following His commands leads to joy bubbling over in our souls.  And how amazing is that?  Much better than a dead pig sort of smiling in a ditch. Jesus, thank you for filling my soul will joy that not only strengthens me but sustains me.  I am grateful for moments of happiness but deeply moved by the presence of true joy.  Help me be intentional in spending time with you and walking in love so my joy overflows. Amen."

Available on Amazon.

New Book Release -- Birds on a Wire by Katie Powner

 Sometimes the hardest path leads to the most beautiful redemption.

After her son is taken by CPS, Bri Marshall faces the daunting reality of changing her life with no car, no job, and very little support. Across town, foster mom Laura Gambler finds that saying "yes" to a newborn drags long-buried pains from her own past back to the surface. Together, these two women must look in the mirror and the Bible to find a way forward through troubled waters.

It is a convicting and authentic story about the high cost of loving deeply for the sake of others.

Available now on Amazon: https://mybook.to/birdsonawire

This is a new-to-me author.  I was absolutely blown away by this powerful look at foster care from both sides -- the foster family and the biological family. I was engaged with the characters and hooked from the first page. I could barely put it down and kept thinking about it long after I finished. If you are or have been a foster parent, or a foster child, or know people who have, I cannot recommend this book highly enough!