Five Question Friday

I've decided I really like this meme, and will try to do it regularly. I have opted not to do Friday Follow this week, because they're asking everyone to post their SPONSOR'S button this week, and I refuse to do that. I'm not posting someone else's sponsor's button on my blog - not makin' money for YOU. Nuh-uh! So, without further ado, I'll get into Five Question Friday.

1. How much time do you spend on the computer a day?

I plead the Fifth. Seriously. It's way too much, given that I make ZERO dollars during the time I spend online!

2. Will you pay for your children's college or raise them to pay for their own way?

A little bit of both. We have money put aside for each, but once that's gone, they are expected to take care of the rest. My husband and I truly believe that they will appreciate their education more if they take an active part in making it happen.

3. Have you ever been in a car accident?

Yep. Many times. At least once as a child, and two or three as an adult (driving).

4. What is your favorite book?

Hahahahahaha! This question is IMPOSSIBLE for me to answer. I LOVE to read. I am an avid reader. I couldn't possibly pick ONE favorite! That said, I am ADDICTED to the Riyria Revelations series by Michael J. Sullivan. Michael is an EXCELLENT storyteller, and these are well-crafted stories. It is a series of six, three of which have been published. The fourth, The Emerald Storm, is expected next month. As I said, I LOVE this series - LOVE it! In fact, I love it so much I've agreed to help (as a favor - not a paid gig) with copy editing, starting with Nyphron Rising (the third book in the series) and continuing through the rest of the series - if they'll have me! 

5. Do you make your bed everyday?

Define "making the bed" - seriously. I don't tuck in all the edges and make it look pristine, but I also don't leave it a mess. The sheets and blankets are straightened out and pulled up to the pillows. It's neat, but not pristine.

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Rules for 5QF: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then link up (grab the code too, if you'd like!!). Also link back to Mama M.

No blog? That's alright!! Just answer the questions in the comments of anyone's blog along the way...this is a fun, easy way to get to know your fellow bloggers!

Questions for Friday, 3/12 (repeated for easier copying):
1. How much time do you spend on the computer a day?
2. Will you pay for your children's college or raise them to pay for their own way?
3. Have you ever been in a car accident?
4. What is your favorite book?
5. Do you make your bed everyday?

Quick Reminder

About a week ago, I posted another book giveaway! One week from today, it ends. So, I thought I'd remind you all about it! Up for grabs is Dancing with My Father and Mother-Daughter Duet. You can sign up for either one or both - just specify on your entry. So far, there aren't very many entries - I'm hoping it's because of lack of interest in these books, rather that lack of interest in me. (I'm pathetically insecure, aren't I?) Whatever the excuse, please support me! ENTER HERE!

Sneak peek: Coming in a couple of weeks is a giveaway of Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs and a giveaway of An Absence So Great by Jane Kirkpatrick.

Tune-In Tuesday

I have always said that music is my passion, my life. When asked the question "What would you do if you could do any job OTHER THAN your current one?" I always say "Something in the music industry. Maybe producing or music engineering, etc." I LOVE music. I love to sing, I love to dance. I LOVE music. Either early this morning or late last night I decided to attempt a meme of my own: Tune-In Tuesday. I'm going to share TWO of my current favorite songs, songs that have recently inspired me, or songs that I just think everyone ought to hear at least once! While I'd love to be able to just add the songs to my account, I have decided to locate the songs on YouTube. If I can find the video that goes with, I will share that. If not, I will find a suitable alternative.

That said, here are my Tune-In Tuesday (Week #1) picks:

1. Rebirthing by Skillet ~ I LOVE Skillet. They are my FAVORITE. I discovered them while in college about 11 years ago, and have been a big fan ever since. So, you'll likely see LOTS of them in here! ;-) This is probably my favorite song of theirs EVER.

I lie here paralytic
Inside this soul
Screaming for you till my throat is numb
I wanna break out
I need a way out
I don’t believe that it’s gotta be this way
The worst is the waiting
In this womb I’m suffocating

Feel your presence filling up my lungs with oxygen
I take you in
I’ve died
Rebirthing now
I wanna live for love wanna live for you and me
Breathe for the first time now
I come alive somehow
Rebirthing now
I Wanna live my life wanna give you everything
Breathe for the first time now
I come alive somehow

I lie here lifeless
In this cocoon
Shedding my skin cause
I’m ready to
I wanna break out
I found a way out
I don’t believe that it’s gotta be this way
The worst is the waiting
In this womb I’m suffocating

Bridge:
Tell me when I’m gonna live again
Tell me when I’m gonna breathe you in
Tell me when I’m gonna feel inside
Tell me when I’m gonna feel alive

Tell me when I’m gonna live again
Tell me when this fear will end
Tell me when I’m gonna feel inside
Tell me when I’ll feel alive

2. Hero by Skillet ~ I told ya, I LOVE Skillet. My kids do, too - they ask specifically for Skillet! This is one that all of us listen to a LOT lately.

I'm just a step away
I'm just a breath away
Losing my faith today
(Falling off the edge today)

I am just a man
Not superhuman
(I'm not superhuman)
Someone save me from the hate

It's just another war
Just another family torn
(Falling from my faith today)
Just a step from the edge
Just another day in the world we live

Chorus:
I need a hero to save me now
I need a hero
(Save me now)
I need a hero to save my life
A hero'll save me
(Just in time)

I gotta fight today
To live another day
Speaking my mind today
(My voice will be heard today)

I've gotta make a stand
But I am just a man
(I'm not superhuman)
My voice will be heard today

It's just another war
Just another family torn
(My voice will be heard today)
It's just another kill
The countdown begins to destroy ourselves

Bridge:
Who's gonna fight for what's right
Who's gonna help us survive

We're in the fight of our lives
(And we're not ready to die)

Who's gonna fight for the weak
Who's gonna make 'em believe
I've got a hero
(I've got a hero)

Living in me

I'm gonna fight for what's right
Today I'm speaking my mind

And if it kills me tonight
(I will be ready to die)

A hero's not afraid to give his life
A hero's gonna save me just in time

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What has inspired you as of late? Share in comments or with your own blog post. Just make sure to leave a comment with a link to your post so I can come check it out! :-) I'd LOVE to see everyone's Tune-In Tuesday choices! Not only is it fun, but I look forward to discovering new music!

Worst. Parents. Ever.

There are few things worse than waking up to your child crying. One of those things is when you realize it's your fault...

My poor sweet Abigail had a VERY disappointing morning. The Tooth Fairy forgot to come! Ordinarily, this would be disappointing for any child, but this was especially bad. This was the tooth she had extracted yesterday. The one we told her the Tooth Fairy would leave EXTRA for because the dentist took it out. The one that caused her much discomfort and made it hard for her to eat because she has to be careful. The one that is GIGANTIC because the root is still fully in tact. THE TOOTH!

I awoke to the sound of her crying and entering my room. Tears were flowing as she announced, "She didn't come!" Immediately, I had words run through my head that I'll not share here. Then came the thoughts I can share. HOW could we FORGET? After all the poor thing had been through, HOW did we not remember? Now what? How do we explain this one away? What does the Tooth Fairy need to do to restore my daughter's faith in her?

I feel absolutely horrible about this. Horrible! :-( I let her down. How could I?

Monday Madness

Today has truly been one of those crazy days. I finally have some peace - Natalie's napping - and hope it stays somewhat peaceful. The morning just wore me out!

After dropping Grant off at school, Abby and I headed to my physical therapy appointment. It went pretty well. After a lengthy assessment, she gave me some exercises to try. I go back on Thursday. The appointment lasted quite long, and we barely got out on time to make it to Abby's appointment! We immediately headed to the dentist. Abby did very well with her tooth extraction. She didn't like the Novocaine shot - which I cannot blame her for! I HATE those! She did quite well, though - and seems to be just fine now. Upon inspecting the tooth (which he let her bring home for the Tooth Fairy), we can see a groove in the root of the tooth, where the permanent tooth was stuck! That tooth definitely needed to get out! Now we're just praying for quick healing!

While the morning felt crazy, the afternoon really wasn't too bad. We spent some time at the library, where I was able to sign Natalie up for some toddler story time in April. :-) Kids are in bed. I have a headache. :-( I might be going to bed early, too.

Tomorrow: I MUST pay bills. Should've done that today.

Week in Review and Looking Ahead

I have been unusually active over the past week or so, and decided to go back and share my thoughts on the week - and what I have coming this/next week. (Why am I doing this on a SUNDAY? Because I didn't think of this yesterday - and I'll explain why in a bit.)

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So, the week in review follows.

• Sunday: Nothing special comes to mind, but it was a LONG week, so maybe that's why! 
• Monday: I started by participating in the Thaw Blogsplash. It was fun to be part of that! On a more personal note, I finished Monday by spending several hours at the Emergency Room with my 4-year-old son. He split his forehead open on the coffee table (we think, as we were in the kitchen and didn't see it happen). Fortunately, it was a small, clean cut and they were able to glue it - as opposed to him getting stitches.
• Tuesday: I took part in a FUN Friend Makin' Monday. With the drama from the night before, I figured it was understandable for me to need to post a day late. Plus, better late than never, right? More personal, I had an appointment with my PCP to discuss the Prilosec I take for GERD. It went well, and - BEST PART - she was very impressed by my weight loss! WOOHOO! She even congratulated me. :-)
• Wednesday: Umm .... I didn't post anything. And, honestly, can't say I remember much about the day. But, a laid-back, not-so-crazy day was needed, that is FOR SURE!
• Thursday: I posted as part of a Blog Tour. Included in that is a GIVEAWAY of TWO free books. Entrants can specify which they want - or even enter for both. Click HERE to check it out! 
• Friday: A double-post day. I started with Friday Follow and finished with a very fun Five Question Friday. Personally, not much to report. It was my youngest sister's birthday, but she lives too far away to do anything with her. I sent her a text and posted to her on Facebook.
• Saturday: No posts. Sorry to disappoint! ;-) But, personally it was VERY busy. Abby and I spent four hours at her Girl Scout troop's cookie booth. The girls sold 118 boxes, and they all behaved rather well. Abby and I went with her BFF (and her BFF's mom) to Carlos O'Kelly for a late lunch. At the end, I was SICK! I'll spare you the details, but let's just say I'm glad I won't see most of those people ever again! LOL I came home and slept. I was WIPED OUT! I'm guessing now you can see why I didn't post this yesterday! ;-)

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And now for the week ahead. (Again, this is something I'm hoping to do on Saturdays, so today will be mentioned even though it's almost over.)

• Sunday: Nothing planned. 
• Monday: BUSY day! We start the day with me having a physical therapy appointment. I have an issue with one of my knees - something discussed at the aforementioned appointment on Tuesday - so we're trying PT to see if it helps things improve. After that poor Abby is having a tooth pulled! It's a baby tooth. Her dentist says it's blocking the permanent tooth from coming up, so it's coming out. I told her the Tooth Fairy gives EXTRA for teeth that the dentist pulls out, but she's still nervous! Prayers for her would be appreciated! The plan is to keep her home from school, as I don't think she'll be up to it. She's supposed to have a Girl Scouts meeting tomorrow, but I expect her to stay home. We'll see, though - if she's doing OK and wants to go, I'll take her. Hopefully I can remember to check out Friend Makin' Monday!
• Tuesday: No plans come to mind. Just the usual - school, the hubby working, etc. Perhaps I'll post Friend Makin' Monday if I forget on Monday - again!
• Wednesday: Again, no plans that I can think of - and my Google calendar is blank, so it must be true - right? I sure hope so!
• Thursday: The hubby gets paid, so that's always nice. Otherwise, nada - I hope. Note to self: get better about updating that Google calendar!
• Friday: I have an ultrasound in the morning. It's for the aforementioned (twice now) knee. Aside from that, I'm planning to participate in Friday Follow and Five Question Friday.

OK, so the week's not as bad as I was thinking it was going to be. Well, at least not so far as planned events go. Once we make it through our BUSY Monday, it shouldn't be too bad. Hopefully. I am hoping to get a book read that I'm going to be editing, but so far our printer won't cooperate! Looks like we'll be buying a new printer in the next couple of days. (UPDATE: DH just told me that he ordered a new printer! Problem sorta solved. I'm still running behind so far as getting my book read! Oh, well. It'll work out. No sense stressing over it.)

Have a blessed week, everyone!

Five Question Friday

It's Five Question Friday time again! (Another one two weeks in a row? Wow. How is this happening?)

1. What's your guilty pleasure?

Hmm...that's a bit of a loaded question. Are we talking food? Activites? Something else? I'm gonna think on this one - and hopefully remember to come back to it so I can really answer it!

2. What is your favorite TV series?

I'm sorry, but this question implies that I have ONE favorite! So NOT the case! LOL My absolute FAVORITE shows (meaning ones I MAKE SURE to watch by making them a priority of sorts, as opposed to the shows I really like but never get around to actually watching them) are:

• Dexter ~ I cannot believe I'm saying that! PLEASE don't tell my hubby! I thought it was abhorrent when he started watching it (thanks to NetFlix) and openly showed my disgust. I have since been sucked in, and he's - graciously, I'm sure - rewatching the first two seasons so I can see them all, too! He knows I'm enjoying it - just don't tell him how much!
  
• 24 ~ Love, love, LOVE this show!
• Lost

There are plenty more that I REALLY like (Private Practice, The Good Wife, The Mentalist, The Forgotten), but have fallen so far behind that I think I've decided to let them go - at least for now. Perhaps with the help of NetFlix I can get caught up again sometime!

3. Can you speak any foreign languages?

Not really. I can speak a tiny bit of Spanish, but I'm nowhere near fluent - and likely couldn't carry on a conversation beyond "hello, how are you, my name is Heather" and the like!

4. How many pairs of shoes do you own?

I honestly don't know. I used to have a LOT of shoes, but having babies made it so some of those shoes no longer are wearable by me. I got rid of a TON of pairs that no longer fit - but just bought some new shoes last weekend. I'd say a dozen or so - but likely to get more as I rediscover my love for shoes!

5. What's your favorite kind of M&M's...peanut, almond, straight up regular, etc.?

Peanut, hands down!

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Rules: Copy and paste the following questions to your blog post, answer them, then link up! If you'd like, grab the code for the blog hop...but you don't have to! Link back to Mama M., so people know where to go for the next go around!

Questions for Friday, March 5th (repeated for easier copying):

1. What's your guilty pleasure?

2. What is your favorite TV series?

3. Can you speak any foreign languages?

4. How many pairs of shoes do you own?

5. What's your favorite kind of M&M's...peanut, almond, straight up regular, etc.?

Friday Follow

It's a miracle - two weeks in a row! Maybe I can be more consistent. I must admit, ever since deciding to stop editing content for eHow.com, I've found I've enjoyed blogging much more. It's no longer a chore, but something I can do at my own pace without pressure to be doing something else! That said, it's time to get down to business.

Welcome to the eighth Friday Follow celebration hosted by One 2 Try, Hearts Make Families and Midday Escapades! You are invited to join in every Friday to get more blog followers and to follow other interesting blogs. It is all about sharing and having fun.

Here’s how YOU can join the celebration:

• Link up your blog name and URL using the MckLinky below – Only need to on one blog to be seen on all the blog hops.
• Follow the Friday Follow hostesses listed in the first 3 slots
• Follow as many blogs as you’d like
• Comment on the blogs telling them you’re from Friday Follow
• Follow back when you get a new follower through Friday Follow

The Blog Hop is the same at each of our three hosts blogs so you do not have to add your blog at each site. Just one – but you can follow each host blog. Follow a few or follow them all.
This list is new each week. The links do not carry over. Please link up each week for new participants to find your blogs. This list is only open to add your blog links on Fridays. It will be visible all week to visit the blogs listed.

GIVEAWAY: Dancing With My Father & Mother-Daughter Duet

Today I'm posting for another blog tour. This one features two books that I just don't think I can get finished by tomorrow! I'm a little over halfway through one, and just don't see the time to read the second - at least not by the end of tomorrow! ;-) So, here's the info about the books. I'll post my thoughts on them, and later - eventually - a review.

I have one copy of EACH book to give away to two lucky readers. Details on how to win are below!

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Description:  The reality of living in a broken, fallen world can leave women feeling overcome by fear, guilt, and weariness. Many develop “sawdust souls,” numb to any sense of joy.

In this warm and wise book, author Sally Clarkson invites readers to take God’s hand and let Him lead them into a life of anticipation, passion, and purpose. With the voice of a trusted mentor, she reveals how, by getting in tune with the rhythm of God’s presence, women can nurture an inner attitude of anticipation and celebration even in the stressful seasons of life.

Through rich biblical insights woven with real-life stories, women will be inspired to recapture a spirit of joy as they follow God’s lead on the dance floor of life.

Author Bio: Sally Clarkson is a popular speaker, known across the nation and internationally for her work with women. She is the author of several books, including The Mission of Motherhood, The Ministry of Motherhood, and Seasons of a Mother’s Heart. She has worked in various ministries, including Campus Crusade for Christ. With her husband, Clay, she is cofounder of Whole Heart Ministries, which encourages and equips Christian parents. The Clarksons, parents of four, live near Colorado Springs, Colorado.

My thoughts: This book is making me think about a lot of things in ways I'd never done before - or at least not in a long time. While it's about joy, it's also made me think about my role in my family - my job as a wife and a mother. It's made me realize that I need to embrace these roles in a way I haven't yet, and really give these people in my life everything I have. The following quote, in particular, really touched me:

Parents face the test of whether to pursue our own rights and interests or give up personal time and priorities in order to invest in training our children and learning what it means to be a servant leader.

This quote jumped out at me. I need to be better about giving up my own personal interests and personal time for the benefit of my children. Yes, the needs to be some balance, but I need to be less self-centered and more focused on my kids. God has given me these wonderful blessings, and I need to focus on them. That means less time pursuing my own interests and more just caring for them, loving on them, being a good mother to them.

The style of the writing in this book is very conversational and very easy to read. Overall, I am enjoying her stories and learning a lot about my relationship with God.

Source: This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Get your own copy: Order your copy of Dancing with My Father HERE.

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Description: When a daughter is born, her mother has a thousand hopes and dreams for her, especially that they will be best friends one day.

Unfortunately, even the best of intentions can go awry. There are so many challenges on the journey to adult friendship that the reality is fraught with friction and frustration. But a harmonious relationship is possible.

Award-winning author Cheri Fuller and her daughter, Ali Plum, have been there and have discovered the keys to a healthy relationship. In Mother-Daughter Duet they share their story—each from her own perspective—in which they have experienced distance and tension, growth and challenge, and, ultimately, acceptance and harmony. Filled with personal anecdotes and based on several basic principles (letting go; listening; respect; setting boundaries; and more), Mother-Daughter Duet helps moms repair the breach so that daughters want to draw close.

The mother-daughter dynamic is intense, personal, complex, and unique. But mothers and daughters can achieve mutual respect and learn to celebrate their differences when they learn the two-part harmony of the mother-daughter duet.

Author Bios: Cheri Fuller is a best-selling, award-winning author whose books have sold more than one million copies. She speaks to a wide range of women at women’s conferences and is a frequent guest on national radio and television programs.

Ali Plum is Cheri’s daughter, a writer and songwriter, a wife, and a mother to Noah and Luke. She and her mom have weathered the ups and downs of their relationship to find one of the most treasured, honest relationships of their lives. Ali has recorded background vocals for popular musicians, and Mother-Daughter Duet marks her debut into book publishing.

My thoughts: Don't really have any yet, as I have yet to even open this book. BUT, I do look forward to reading it. As the mother of two daughters, I hope to gain a lot of insight into how best to foster a healthy relationship with my girls. Once I've read it, I'll let you know if it delivers! ;-)

Source: This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Get your own: You can purchase your own copy of this book HERE.

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And now for the EXTRA FUN part! Sign up to get a FREE copy of either book. Contest ends at 1 a.m. CENTRAL on March 17. To enter, just give me your information using the MckLinky form below. Make sure to specify what you're entering for (Dancing, Duet, or both)! Remember, only I have access to your e-mail address, so don't be shy! Finally, contest is open only to U.S. residents. No P.O. boxes.

Friend Making Monday ... on Tuesday

Yep, I'm late - again. Sorry. I saw yesterday's post, and thought it looked like fun. But, last night while we were cleaning up after dinner, Grant split his forehead open! So, I spent the night (well, a few hours) at the emergency room with him. They were able to glue it together, so I was happy we were able to avoid stitches! Today has subsequently been nuts - I kept him home just to make sure he wasn't going to pick at it or anything. I finally have a chance to post!

Amber wants to know what home decor style we gravitate to. There's a quiz on Sproost that she'd like us to take. If you wanna take the quiz, go here.

According to the style quiz, my personal design style is:

57% Classic (I LOVE this picture!)

 

29% French Eclectic

 14% Modern Elegance (I must admit this one surprises me a little)

And here's the description to go with it:

Classic

What's old is new again! The beauty of Classic Style is how well it takes all of the beautiful forms, colors and textures of the past and reinvents them in a way that feels both fresh and inspired. The style itself is a mix of European influences and French, English and Italian antiques and replicas are often used together. Furniture is well proportioned and comfortable and the rooms give off an air of sophistication and grace. Oil paintings depicting a still life or nature scenes and emphasizing symmetry of pairs helps maintain the Classic nature of the room. Windows are often covered with opulent fabric shades and/or drapery. Classic rooms give off an air of history that seems to say: "I was here long before you, and will remain long after you've gone." And yet, even with this level of sophistication, the rooms are soft and inviting.

More >

Materials

Classic rooms are filled with texture and deep color. Walls are often saturated in color and many times have an old-world faux finish to hint of days gone by. Dark stained wood is very common and is often distressed. Additionally, gold, bronze and silvers have a natural-looking patina to them that softens their shine. Maps and animal prints are common, and fringe and tassels are often used to trim pillows, drapery and cushions. Genuine antiques are mixed with replicas and found objects become sculptural elements in the room. Wallpaper is a very popular way to bring additional color and texture to the room, and the patterns are usually reminiscent of traditional European styling.

Colors

Common colors are creams, and rich versions of traditional colors such as burgundy, dark green and navy blue. Golds and yellows are also popular as many Classic rooms have a very warm tone to them. That being said, greens and blues can also be tailored to take on the Classic feel. The color, whatever it may be, almost always has a regal air to it and many times you will see faux finishing to highlight the aged feel of the color.

Now, if only I could afford to remodel so my house looks like that first pic! LOL

So, what's YOUR personal design style? Head on over to Sproost to find out! Don't forget to share your results!

Thaw Blogsplash: Read a Novel for FREE

Ruth's diary is the new novel by Fiona Robyn, called Thaw. Fiona has decided to blog the novel in its entirety over the next few months, so you can read it for FREE. How cool is that? Ruth's first diary entry (the first chapter of Thaw) is below, and you can continue reading tomorrow HERE.

Before getting to Thaw, I must add that I am honored to be part of this Blogsplash! Thank you, Fiona, for allowing me to help get the word out about Thaw!

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These hands are ninety-three years old. They belong to Charlotte Marie Bradley Miller. She was so frail that her grand-daughter had to carry her onto the set to take this photo. It’s a close-up. Her emaciated arms emerge from the top corners of the photo and the background is black, maybe velvet, as if we’re being protected from seeing the strings. One wrist rests on the other, and her fingers hang loose, close together, a pair of folded wings. And you can see her insides.

The bones of her knuckles bulge out of the skin, which sags like plastic that has melted in the sun and is dripping off her, wrinkling and folding. Her veins look as though they’re stuck to the outside of her hands. They’re a colour that’s difficult to describe: blue, but also silver, green; her blood runs through them, close to the surface. The book says she died shortly after they took this picture. Did she even get to see it? Maybe it was the last beautiful thing she left in the world.

I’m trying to decide whether or not I want to carry on living. I’m giving myself three months of this journal to decide. You might think that sounds melodramatic, but I don’t think I’m alone in wondering whether it’s all worth it. I’ve seen the look in people’s eyes. Stiff suits travelling to work, morning after morning, on the cramped and humid tube. Tarted-up girls and gangs of boys reeking of aftershave, reeling on the pavements on a Friday night, trying to mop up the dreariness of their week with one desperate, fake-happy night. I’ve heard the weary grief in my dad’s voice.

So where do I start with all this? What do you want to know about me? I’m Ruth White, thirty-two years old, going on a hundred. I live alone with no boyfriend and no cat in a tiny flat in central London. In fact, I had a non-relationship with a man at work, Dan, for seven years. I’m sitting in my bedroom-cum-living room right now, looking up every so often at the thin rain slanting across a flat grey sky. I work in a city hospital lab as a microbiologist. My dad is an accountant and lives with his sensible second wife Julie, in a sensible second home. Mother finished dying when I was fourteen, three years after her first diagnosis. What else? What else is there?

Charlotte Marie Bradley Miller. I looked at her hands for twelve minutes. It was odd describing what I was seeing in words. Usually the picture just sits inside my head and I swish it around like tasting wine. I have huge books all over my flat; books you have to take in both hands to lift. I’ve had the photo habit for years. Mother bought me my first book, black and white landscapes by Ansel Adams. When she got really ill, I used to take it to bed with me and look at it for hours, concentrating on the huge trees, the still water, the never-ending skies. I suppose it helped me think about something other than what was happening. I learned to focus on one photo at a time rather than flicking from scene to scene in search of something to hold me. If I concentrate, then everything stands still. Although I use them to escape the world, I also think they bring me closer to it. I’ve still got that book. When I take it out, I handle the pages as though they might flake into dust.

Mother used to write a journal. When I was small, I sat by her bed in the early mornings on a hard chair and looked at her face as her pen spat out sentences in short bursts. I imagined what she might have been writing about; princesses dressed in star-patterned silk, talking horses, adventures with pirates. More likely she was writing about what she was going to cook for dinner and how irritating Dad’s snoring was.

I’ve always wanted to write my own journal, and this is my chance. Maybe my last chance. The idea is that every night for three months, I’ll take one of these heavy sheets of pure white paper, rough under my fingertips, and fill it up on both sides. If my suicide note is nearly a hundred pages long, then no-one can accuse me of not thinking it through. No-one can say; ‘It makes no sense; she was a polite, cheerful girl, had everything to live for’, before adding that I did keep myself to myself. It’ll all be here. I’m using a silver fountain pen with purple ink. A bit flamboyant for me, I know. I need these idiosyncratic rituals; they hold things in place. Like the way I make tea, squeezing the tea-bag three times, the exact amount of milk, seven stirs. My writing is small and neat; I’m striping the paper. I’m near the bottom of the page now. Only ninety-one more days to go before I’m allowed to make my decision. That’s it for today. It’s begun.

Continue reading tomorrow here...

The Editor in Me Cringes!

I have to say something. Before I do, though, please bear a couple of things in mind:

• My degree is in English.
• I have worked several years as an editor - most of which were as a copy editor.
• I am one of those word nerds who loves to see the English language used correctly.
• I do know that most incorrect usage of the language stems from either not knowing any better or confusion. Key word there: MOST. I know some people don't give a you-know-what.

Now that that's out of the way. Minor vent is here. I HATE that the titles of these things tend to lack needed punctuation. Five Question Friday should be Five-Question Friday. Friend Makin' Monday should be Friend-Makin' Monday. I'm sure there are more. And please, if you are the creator of these - and others like these - please do not be offended. I don't mean to offend. I can grit my teeth and ignore it - most of the time. Unfortunately, I cannot let it go completely unmentioned. Sorry. Remember, as stated above, I've spent LOTS of time editing. I have nothing but love for you - AND your creation(s)!

Five Question Friday

Aren't I the Chatty Cathy today? LOL I just stumbled upon a few fun Friday-themed things and decided to go along. I find stuff like this fun, so I decided to play along. Plus, it makes up for the long stretches of silence I tend to have occasionally - right?

1. Do you sing karaoke? If so, what is your go to song?

No. I do not sing karaoke. I LOVE to sing, but I'm too self-conscious. I almost NEVER let anyone (other than my kids) hear me sing - not even my hubby.

2. What is your favorite coffee drink?

I don't drink coffee - ever. HATE it! I like to say that Dr Pepper is my coffee. That said, I LOVE a chai tea latte. My favorite is from Panera, but Starbuck's will do in a pinch!

3. If you could choose your own name, what would it be?

Ha! I honestly don't know. I know that growing up I always hated my name - HATED it. My biggest problem with it was that I couldn't shorten it. I had friends named Melissa who went by Missy; friends named Jennifer went by Jenny; guys named Andrew went by Andy ... I hated that Heather couldn't be shortened. But, I don't know that I'd change it at this point. I am Heather - don't know if I could be anything (anyone?) else!

4. Were you ever bullied?

Not really - at least no one ever threatened me. BUT, I was picked on a LOT in grade and middle school. A LOT. I hated it - and I pray my children never experience anything like it.

5. How often do you eat fast food?

Way too often. At least a couple of times per week - and that's on top of going out at sit-down places! But, I'm still losing weight, so I can't be doing too badly, right?

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This was fun, and I think I'll do it again next week - assuming I remember! LOL Wanna play, too? Here are the rules:
Copy and paste the questions into your own blog, putting your own answers in (of course). Add your link in McLinky (below), and make sure to link back to Mama M. Have fun!

~*~Friday Follow~*~

So, I added myself to the Friday Follow McLinky list, but neglected to make a FF post! Sorry! I decided to give this a try, because it sounds like fun! :-) This is my first week doing this, and I look forward to making new friends!

I post mainly book reviews, but also other odds and ends - hence the name, Ramblings & More! ;-) To check out my reviews, go HERE. I occasionally have book giveaways, too. Look for TWO free books up for grabs next week!

To see the rules of Friday Follow, so that you, too, can participate, click on the graphic above! Leave me a comment if you become a follower, and I'll do the same for you!

Thank you to our hosts: Midday Escapades, One 2 Try, and Hearts Make Families!

Trying Not to Panic

I just received word from my husband that he has been officially accepted for grad school! It's something I know he's been wanting to do for quite some time, and he was finally able to get it worked out. His employer will pay for everything - including his salary while he's schooling. (Without that this wouldn't happen right now, as I'm not going back to work any time soon.)

Yes, I'm happy for him and proud of him. And, yes, I know it's a good thing and it's what needs to happen.

So, why the panic?

Because while he can do most of his work online, he is required to be on campus for at least one semester!

The school he has chosen (because of the program they offer) is 6 hours away from home.

Get it now?

Yup. And I thought his 30-day deployments were hard! Those will seem like nothing by this time next year! :-( I cannot imagine a full semester without him here! How am I going to get through it? Don't get me wrong, I know I will, but thinking about it just freaks me out right now. I was going to try to get off the Zoloft this year, but now I'm thinking maybe I'll wait. Yes, I know, it's a crutch, but with the prospect of going it alone for three months causing me near panic I don't know that I wanna fend for myself yet!

Again, I know this is what needs to happen now. I know he is following God's will by doing this. I know it's right. I know we'll be OK. But, man, does it scare me.

Plus, I can't believe I'm admitting it publicly, but there's also the fear of him being away at college for a semester - alone. Yes, I trust him - we wouldn't have recently celebrated our 11th anniversary if I didn't. But, I know sometimes people surprise you - and not in a good way.

I know that I just have to trust God. I will be prayerfully approaching the rest of this year. I need God to sustain me, but - more importantly - I also need God to be with my husband. I need Him to protect my husband in every possible way - spiritually, emotionally, physically, mentally, sexually, and anything else that might need protection. Please, my dear friends, pray with me! There is strength in numbers. God says so Himself! If you are praying with me, please comment so I know. It's always comforting to know when someone's joining me in praying for things like this!

Just pitiful

We tried hard with all three kids to avoid the Linus syndrome - you know, having a blanket that must go EVERYWHERE with them! Abby and Grant went along with it, choosing something smaller (and more portable) to cling to. Natalie, however, did not cooperate.

Yesterday Natalie decided that she simply couldn't do anything without her precious blanket. While my husband makes her leave it in the crib every morning, I let her bring it downstairs. Sometimes - like yesterday - she tries to carry it with her everywhere. I say "tries" because I don't let her leave the house with it. And sometimes - again, like yesterday - she protests. Usually she just throws a fit and cries for about 5 minutes or so. Not yesterday. She threw a fit in the kitchen and refused to cooperate as I was trying to get everyone into the car. So, I forced her through the door (gently of course), after which point she relented and walked to the car without more fussing. This was in the morning, when dropping Abby off at school.

About 30 minutes later it was time to bring Grant to school. Natalie again attempted to bring the blanket. There was another fit. Again she refused to leave the house willingly. As I'm (again, gently) dragging her out the door, I asked "Do we really need to do this again?" Her response: "Yes" in the most pitiful voice I've ever heard! LMAO I couldn't help but crack up. And, yes, this occurred one more time when it was time to pick Grant up - complete with the pitiful "Yes" when asked if we really had to do that again! LOL

Natalie is such a character. All three of my kiddos are. But, I wouldn't change them - or my life with them - for anything. God has blessed me beyond my greatest hopes!

Book Review: Yesterday's Promise

Yesterday's Promise by Linda Lee Chaikin


My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Summary: Rogan Chantry faces danger from tribesmen, ruthless politicians, and his own family as he searches for gold in South Africa. In England, his beloved Evy is injured by a mysterious assailant. The greed and intrigue surrounding the diamond mines could very well drive them irrevocably apart.

My review: Before reading this book, I was disappointed to find out that this was Book 2 in a series. I hate starting a series (not just books, but anything - TV shows, movies, etc.) anywhere but the beginning. Normally, I would table the book until I'd read the previous one in the series. But, I had agreed to read this one and post a review this week. As this was one of two books I was to review this week, I didn't have the time to read Book 1 in this series. I wish I had. I found that there was much in this book that had me questioning if I'd know what was being referred to if I had read Book 1. There were many events and circumstances referenced that I was completely clueless about. So, I don't know that this would be a stand-alone title. I think I would have enjoyed this book much more if I had read Tomorrow's Treasure first.

That said, overall I did like the book. While it took me awhile - meaning at least a few chapters - to get into it, I soon found myself unwilling to put it down. In fact, I read the last hundred-plus pages today. I think part of why I couldn't get into it at first was because this book starts (and continues) with the assumption that I'm familiar with the back story. But, once I got into it, I found the story and the characters quite interesting.

I now feel that I have to read Tomorrow's Treasure - to get the first part of the story into my head. Then I'd like to re-read this one. Hopefully it'll be a bit easier to read once I'm familiar with the earlier story in the series. Although, I do fear that knowing how this one plays out means that I'll have much in the first book actually ruined. But, it's more about finding out what happened before.

So, if this book sounds interesting to you, I suggest you start with Tomorrow's Treasure first, then read this one. I would guess that this one is quite good if read after the first in the series!

Source: Sent by publisher for review.

Get your own: You can get your own copy of Yesterday's Promise HERE.

Note: This is the second of two books reviewed as part of this week's Spring Value Fiction Blog tour, which features six full-length novels priced at $5.99 (according to the press release I received). The other book review of Beneath a Southern Sky can be found HERE.

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Congratulations my first giveaway WINNER

THANK YOU to all who entered the book giveaway for Hear No Evil! With the help of Random.org, the winner has been selected.



In case it's unclear (I can't see the list until I hit "Publish"), the winner is MONICA! :-) I'll be in touch soon! (Gotta drop the boy off at school.)

Book Review: Beneath a Southern Sky

Beneath a Southern Sky by Deborah Raney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Summary: Daria Camfield is expecting her first child when her husband Nate is reported dead on the mission field. Devastated, she returns to the States and soon marries again. But two years later Nate is found alive in the jungle. How can Daria possibly choose between the two men who love her?

My Review: I hadn't heard of Deborah Raney before, so I wasn't sure what to expect. Long story short: I'll be looking to read more of Raney's books, because this one was GOOD.

I like how this is a Christian book, but it's not preachy. The references to God and the praying in the book felt natural - they fit with when I'd find such things in my own life. I like the natural Christianity in the book, rather the the oftentimes overly preachy references in other Christian fiction.

The plot was good. It showed that the consequences of not listening to that still small voice often are quite painful - not just for those refusing to submit, but also for their loved-ones. The choices we make in our walk with God aren't just about us - they affect everyone we know to some degree or another. Those most dear to us likely are most affected by it. This book served as a good reminder for me to make sure to be in tune to God's prompting in my heart, and to strive to be in His will.


Source: This book was sent by the publisher for review.

Get Your Own Copy: Interested? Purchase your own copy here.

Note: This is the first of two books that I will be reviewing as part of this week's Spring Value Fiction Blog tour, which features six full-length novels priced at $5.99. Look for my review of Yesterday's Promise later this week.

View all of my GoodReads reviews >>

GIVEAWAY & Book Review: Hear No Evil

Hear No Evil: Marching in the Lord's Army, Fleeing the Devil, and Finding a Righteous Groove by Matthew Paul Turner

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars (note: on Goodreads.com, it is 4 stars, because they do not have half-star ratings)

Summary: A collection of wise, compelling, and often uproariously funny essays built around the experience of music as a transformational element in a moment of truth, Hear No Evil mines Matthew Paul Turner’s humorous memories of his evangelical youth and invites readers to groove along on his journey.

From attending forbidden contemporary Christian concerts to moving to “Music City” Nashville, Hear No Evil chronicles Turner’s “life soundtrack” which morphs seamlessly into the stories of people, places, and experiences that have taught the music-editor-turned-author some new things about God, forced him out of his comfort zone, and introduced him to a fresh view of grace along the way.

If you’ve ever had the opening bars of a song transport you back in time or remind you of a pivotal spiritual moment, Matthew Paul Turner’s honest—and frequently hilarious—musings will strike a chord. Straight forward and amusing, Hear No Evil is an exploration of a life of faith lived to a personal soundtrack.

My review: Matthew Paul Turner grew up in a very strict - fundamentalist - church/family. I didn't realize just how sheltered some people are - and how extreme fundamentalists can be! Oddly, though, despite my growing up in a Charismatic church, I was almost as sheltered as he was. Especially when it came to music. I attended a church that STRONGLY discouraged listening to secular music. In fact, I remember a time when one of the youth leaders gave me a bunch of free CDs in exchange for old secular music of mine - which was then destroyed! Despite my "best" attempts, I've never stuck to listening to strictly Christian music for long. Anyway, because of this and similar experiences, I found myself able to relate in a way I never would've guessed!

Back to the book. I'm jealous of Turner! I'd love to work for CCM, and to meet AMY GRANT! She's the ONE artist I've been a fan of all my life. She's the person I always say I'd meet if I could meet ONE person. I would love to get to read the story he originally wrote from the interview he mentions in this book. I couldn't believe the piousness of his boss in regards to Amy's life! Apparently this man was just plain BLIND because of the REDWOOD TREE in his own eye!

This was a very enjoyable read, and I thought it was quite interesting to see some things about how the Christian music industry works behind the scenes. There were things I never would've even guessed - but makes a lot of sense.

Anyone who LOVES music (I often say it's my passion) should read this book!

Source: This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Get your own copy: I was sent ONE extra copy to give away FOR FREE to my readers. So, please fill out the McLinky form below. Make sure to include your e-mail address (only visible by ME) so I can contact you if you are the winner! This contest is open through 2 a.m. CENTRAL time on Monday, February 22. I will announce the winner (to be randomly selected with the help of random.org) within 24 hours.

If you do not win, you can purchase your own copy here.

View all my GoodReads reviews >>

Book Review: Love & War

Love and War: Finding the Marriage You've Dreamed Of by John and Stasi Eldredge
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Summary: What the Eldredge bestsellers "Wild at Heart" did for men, and "Captivating" did for women, LOVE & WAR will do for married couples everywhere. John and Stasi Eldredge have contributed the quintessential works on Christian spirituality through the experience of men and the experience of women and now they turn their focus to the incredible dynamic between those two forces.

With refreshing openness that will grab readers from the first page, the Eldredges candidly discuss their own marriage and the insights they’ve gained from the challenges they faced. Each talks independently to the reader about what they’ve learned, giving their guidance personal immediacy and a balance between the male and female perspectives that has been absent from all previous books on this topic. They begin LOVE & WAR with an obvious but necessary acknowledgment: Marriage is fabulously hard. They advise that the sooner we get the shame and confusion off our backs, the sooner we'll find our way through.

LOVE & WAR shows couples how to fight for their love and happiness, calling men and women to step into the great adventure God has waiting for them together. Walking alongside John and Stasi Eldredge, every couple can discover how their individual journeys are growing into a story of meaning much greater than anything they could do or be on their own.

My review: I had heard of John Eldredge, so I was excited to have a chance to read something he'd written.

This book is VERY good. VERY insightful. It is a Christian book about marriage, and it talks all about what God intended marriage to be. It was an eye-opener, insofar as it really helped me see why Satan is trying to hard to undermine marriage - not only by attacking intact marriage, but also by convincing people that it's irrelevant and by perverting something beautiful created by God himself.

I have considered myself blessed in my marriage. My husband and I are a great match, and we seem to be in an awesome place. This book served as a reminder that this likely is the calm before the storm. Satan's not going to let us revel in our harmonious marriage long before striking and attempting to destroy what we have. This book has made me more watchful, more mindful, and more prayerful.

I highly recommend this book to all married couples, all engaged couples, AND anyone who wants to get married someday. There are issues from our past that can greatly affect our marriages. This book tells us how to defeat those - and I figure you don't have to wait until you're married/engaged to start fighting those battles!

Get your own copy of the book:
http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780385529808
This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

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Book Review: Bonk

Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex by Mary Roach

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was very interesting, and quite hilarious at times. There were a few laugh-out-loud parts that had me hoping no one would ask what I'm laughing at for fear of having to explain in detail what I'm reading! LOL I absolutely love Mary Roach's wit and humor.

Get your own copy of Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex.

View all my reviews >>