Why I, and Everyone, Can Relate to "Go Set a Watchman"

One of my favorite books is To Kill a Mockingbird. When I heard that its relative, Go Set a Watchman, was to be published last year, I was very excited. I finally checked it out last month.

I had heard some rumors about the book painting Atticus in a completely different light and that it bothered people. First, it's important to remember that this book was written before Mockingbird and was published as is. Second, the seeming contradiction is exactly why I loved it.

I can relate so much to how Jean Louise (Scout) felt. I realized that although I'm no Southern gal nor a tomboy, I have much in common with her. We both are tied to the place where we grew up but do not fit in there nor desire to return permanently. We both grew up idolizing a family member only to have that image broken once we became an adult. 

At that time, it was very disappointing and hurtful for me (though not as crushing as it was for Jean Louise in the book). However, what I've since learned from personal study and therapy, and as this book expresses at the end, is that everyone is human, sometimes people change and sometimes we just don't see them how they really are, and we all need to establish our own personal identities separate from those we love and admire. These are truths to which everyone can relate.

Everyone Is Human

To be human means to be imperfect. It means to have weaknesses and to be inconsistent. Even the most noble of God's children are prone to make errors, even ones that may seem out of character for those people. I love how President Dieter F. Uchtdorf put it: "If you define hypocrite as someone who fails to live up perfectly to what he or she believes, then we are all hypocrites." No one on earth lives up to 100 percent of his or her ideals 100 percent of the time. It's also important to remember that just because people are strong in one area--or many--doesn't mean they are perfect in all areas or don't have room to grow in their strengths. 

We may find this frustrating or upsetting, but as Elder Jeffrey R. Holland so wisely said (as he always does), "[Be] kind regarding human frailty . . . . Except in the case of His only perfect Begotten Son, imperfect people are all God has ever had to work with. That must be terribly frustrating to Him, but He deals with it. So should we."

Can't argue with that. 

Humans Are Dynamic

Most people undergo changes throughout their lives as they go through new experiences and learn new ideas. Some changes are for the better, and some for the worse. Sometimes it happens quickly, but usually it happens slowly and undetected until all of a sudden it's noticeable and catches us by surprise. Either way, it's unfair and silly to expect others to always remain the same, especially for our own comfort.

On the other hand, sometimes it is our fault for not seeing people as they really are, whether that means putting someone on a pedestal from which to crash down when he or she deviates from our expectations, or being purposely deceived by others. Everyone agrees the latter is wrong, but so is the former. When people are perceived as being more saintly or wise than they really are, and they don't want to be perceived that way, it limits them. It doesn't allow them to be weak, wrong, or fallible, because when they are, they lose support or damage the feelings of those who looked up to them. (I feel this way sometimes with people who have put me on a pedestal and have only given me one direction in which to go: down.)

This is why the scriptures remind us not to rely on the "arm of the flesh." Humans progress and regress, and are therefore unreliable. The only beings who are always constant, unchanging, and steady are Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. We can always depend on Them for love, help, and truth.

Humans Are Individuals

Jean Louise's uncle realizes that his niece's internal war isn't just about her father. It's also about her own identity. She had attached her identity to her father's, and now that she was discovering the two were not the same, she had to break free and become her own person. In this way, I relate to her the most.

It slowly began once I became a mother. Everything I had spouted out before that were things others had put into my head and I regurgitated. (It's how I got nothing below an A- my whole educational career. I learned to do and say what the teachers wanted me to do and say instead of actually understanding and applying the material. Not that that was always the case!) Then I began to be exposed to new ideas and practices. I read about them, tried them out, and decided they fit who I am and how I think, and more important, they worked for my children. Now the way I parent is by choice and not by expectation or habit (well, I try, anyway). 

I've experienced similar transformations in all my beliefs during my adult years. I've found that I do have particular political philosophies and that certain topics are more important to me than others. I've discovered some of my doctrinal understandings were incomplete or outright incorrect, whereas others I've come to comprehend even more fully than before. I've sorted through multiple ideas and behaviors into those which work for me and reflect who I am and those which do not, regardless of what others think or think I should think.

That last part is the most difficult. Not everyone is happy or supportive when you come into your own identity and establish your individuality. It takes courage to stand up for yourself. I remember during one therapy session, my therapist said he wished I would tell him sometime that what he was saying was "a load of BS." He wanted to see me be assertive and vocal about something instead of always agreeing. (In my defense, he has yet to say something that would necessitate such a strong response.) Similarly, Atticus is actually proud of Scout when she stands up to him.

Unfortunately, we don't always have such a positive outcome when we try to express our true selves. It's a shame, because that is the beauty of being a child of God. He somehow made each of His billions of children unique. It reminds me of snowflakes. I am left in wonder and awe that regardless of how much snow falls around the world year round, not a single snowflake is the same, nor ever will be. Each has the same basic structure and properties, but each also has its own design and beauty.

A Perfect Pair

Go Set a Watchman helped me understand To Kill a Mockingbird better and see it through an adult's eye instead of a child's. The characters weren't ruined for me, but magnified. I highly recommend you read it and see it for what it is: not a sequel (or prequel) to a book beloved worldwide, but a deeper look into what it means to be human.

"A Princess Story" Book Review

Have you ever wanted to be a princess? Or just to feel like royalty or experience an adventure? There's something about princesses and fairy tales that we're naturally drawn to, whether it's good defeating evil or having a happily ever after.

In the book A Princess Story: The Real-Life Fairy Tale Found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Jaci Wightman explains why we feel this way and how we truly are princesses in a very real fairy tale of our own. She reveals how the plan of salvation fits the story line of a typical fairy tale and who all the main characters are.

Smiles
*It explores deep topics while remaining easy to read.
*It relies heavily on scripture and other authoritative gospel sources.
*It encourages action. The book isn't just informative, but also inviting. The purpose is to get us to see the gospel in a new perspective and understand its direct involvement in our lives. Sister Wightman provides questions to ask ourselves, gives additional references to read and study, and recommends keeping a journal of spiritual discoveries while reading.

Frowns
*None so far. I admit, I haven't finished it yet.

For more information on the book and author, visit this website.

"Papa's Book of Mormon Christmas" Book Review

Are you looking for a new addition to your collection of children's or family Christmas books? If you are, then you will love Papa's Book of Mormon Christmas by Emma Rae Parker. It's about a loving grandpa sharing with his little granddaughter his special appreciation for and connection to the Book of Mormon, especially during certain Christmases in his life.

Smiles
*The story is very cute and touching, and the characters are charming.
*The illustrations are colorful and adorable.
*It's an easy read and just the right length for both young and older children.
*It balances the secular and spiritual sides of Christmas.

Frowns
*When I first read it, I thought it was based on a true story. I was disappointed to find out it was fictional. It's still a beautiful story, though, that brings the Spirit and focuses on the amazing gift the Book of Mormon is to us.

I recommend making this book a part of your holiday traditions! (Note: I didn't read the story yet to my kids, ages 5 and 2, because I want to save it for Christmas, but I know they'll love it.)

"From Baptist Preacher to Mormon Teacher" Book Review

If you don't know me, I love to hear people's stories: where they came from, how they met their significant others, what their talents and hobbies are and where they learned them, etc. As a Mormon, one of my favorite stories to listen to is people's conversion stories: where they first heard the gospel, what touched their spirits and made them want to learn more, what was difficult for them to accept, etc. Therefore, I was excited to review From Baptist Preacher to Mormon Teacher by Wain Myers (with Kelly Martinez). Brother Myers candidly and humorously shares his journey to becoming a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and progressing in the gospel.

Smiles
*Brother Myers is honest and real. You can feel his personality through the book so it seems that if you met him, you wouldn't consider him a stranger but a friend.
*The book is very engaging and easy to read. Sometimes it read like a novel and sometimes like a compelling church talk (which he says he practices all the time, so maybe that's why it showed in his writing, too!).
*I learned some things about the Church and gospel that I didn't know before. I won't tell you what they were, though--you have to read the book yourself!

Frowns
*The last quarter felt a little disjointed to me, bouncing from topic to topic and reading more like a sermon than a story line (I guess his preaching days haven't fully left him, lol). I would've liked it organized differently.

If you enjoy a fresh and funny story about a real person and their spiritual journey, I recommend you read this book!

"Understanding Your Endowment" Book Review

For those of you who are LDS, have you ever left the temple feeling the Spirit yet also confused about certain aspects of the ceremony? I'd be lying if I said I haven't. Whether or not you have felt that way, I highly recommend you read the book Understanding Your Endowment by Cory B. Jensen. As described on the publisher's blog:

For many members of the Church, the temple endowment remains something of a mystery. Yet when understood, the temple can function in our lives as a modern day Liahona, giving us our bearings in our mortal journey back to our Father. Understanding Your Endowment is packed with insights and keys, which can help you unlock the temple’s purpose and meaning in your life. It will help you understand the blessings the Lord offers His children through His temples and will enrich your personal temple worship.

Understanding Your Endowment examines topics such as covenant ceremonies, the initiatory ordinances, the endowment, and temple sealings in a manner that is plain and easy to understand while still respecting their sacred and confidential nature. Whether you are preparing to enter the temple for the first time or already attend regularly, your temple worship will be enhanced by reading this book.

Smiles
*It definitely increased my desire to return to the temple often and put more effort into letting the Spirit teach me the deeper meanings behind the symbolism and their applications in my life.
*It discusses temple covenants and ordinances thoroughly and helpfully without divulging sacred information.
*I appreciated Brother Jensen's frequent reminders that symbolic interpretations aren't limited and are very personal and we should discard anything he says that isn't helpful to us. He doesn't pretend to know all the answers or assert that only his views are correct.

Frowns
*Although it can be read by members preparing to enter the temple for the first time, it is best for those who have been at least once so they can follow the discussion. However, there are still sections that members should read beforehand to help them have a better experience.
*The background on covenants made me glad I did not live before Christ's Atonement ended the need for sacrifices and other gruesome rituals! It did explain a lot of modern practices, though.

I think all members should read and apply this book and use it to teach others preparing for the temple so they can have more meaningful first-time experiences and learn how to make the most of future visits. For a more spiritual review, go to my Mormon Light blog.

"Scripture Princesses" Book Review & Free Tiara Printable

Has your daughter ever wanted to learn more about the women in the scriptures? It can seem like they are hard to find, so author and illustrator Rebecca J. Greenwood made it easy by compiling the stories of the major women from the scriptures in a book called Scripture Princesses.

Smiles
*It's a simple, easy read that adheres to the stories as written in the scriptures and includes references for further exploration.
*The illustrations are lovely and break up the text nicely.
*I like that the women were ordered chronologically instead of by scripture set to give you a better sense of when they lived in relation to each other.
*Each chapter begins with a statement about the quality each woman showed through her experiences. (ex: Be wise, like Eve).

Frowns
*I wish it had included Deborah from the Old Testament.
*Although the last sentence restates the woman's quality and how it blessed her and others, I wish there had been something more. For example, how we can use the quality in our lives or an explanation about the quality (like what it means to be wise). 

This book is great for Primary girls who want to learn about female scripture heroes whose examples they can follow. The stories also make great Family Home Evening lessons and a great resource for family scripture study and Church lessons.

Rebecca also has provided a free princess tiara printable for your little princess to color and wear!

"1, 2, 3 with Nephi and Me!" Book Review

When I volunteered to review the board book 1, 2, 3 with Nephi and Me!, I admit I wasn't expecting much. A board book for babies on counting to ten can only be so amazing, right? Boy, was I pleasantly surprised and very glad to be wrong!

Smiles
*This book was very well thought out. It was not overly simple or predictable. I even learned some new things!
*Each number representation comes with scripture references for further learning and connection to the Book of Mormon.
*It uses rhyming.
*The illustrations are colorful and appealing.
*I like the matte finish on the inside pages.

Frowns
*None

I highly recommend this book for your little ones! It makes a great sacrament meeting quiet activity, nursery lesson, Family Home Evening lesson, or even bedtime story.

"The Caregiver's Journey" Book Review

It may seem out of place for me to review a book about being a caregiver for an elderly loved one. However, as the author, Todd F. Cope, noted, "Sixty five million Americans (mostly mothers) are currently a caregiver for a loved one. With the Baby Boom generation reaching retirement age, that number will only increase. Most adults who are not caregivers either know one, or anticipate becoming one in the near future." Some of you already may be facing this responsibility. Some of you may not be there yet, but the best time to prepare is now.

The Caregiver's Journey is an introductory book into the world of caregiving for loved ones (not professionals) who need easily understood and accessible advice on how to give proper care. It outlines the journey you will have to take, from recognizing care is needed to finding the right help to saying goodbye. It covers common problems and emotions you may face, and it begins each chapter with a real example to give you an idea of an issue or to help you relate with others who have been in similar situations to yours and your loved one's.

Smiles
*It is very simple and practical to help those who have no professional background in caregiving and need general tools on how to start and navigate the journey and where to find more resources specific to your situation.
*The sections and chapters are organized very well to help you find answers about specific topics relevant to where you are in the caregiving journey.
*The book is a short, quick read, perfect for your busy lifestyle.

Frowns
*More of an FYI  than a frown: Because the approach is more general in nature, it is not helpful for those looking for more detailed information on care for certain conditions, what to look for in a care facility, or what questions to ask when hiring help. It is a simple overview of issues that come with being a caregiver and how to handle them.

I recommend this book for anyone who is new to caregiving and is feeling lost or overwhelmed, anyone who may become a caregiver in the near future, or anyone you know who is in those positions and may benefit from guidance. In fact, I think I'm going to pass along my copy to my uncle, who cares for my grandma.

"Missionary: Possible" Book Review

I feel passionately about proper preparation for serving an LDS mission. Preparing to be a missionary starts as a child with obtaining gospel knowledge and a foundational testimony. It continues on in the teenage years as knowledge and understanding deepen and testimonies strengthen. But far too many youth wait until crunch time before starting to prepare, and then it's too late to make meaningful and lasting improvements. Companions, investigators, and church members end up suffering from the under-preparation of these missionaries.

Eric Rigby addresses this problem in his book Missionary: Possible, Preparation Tips from New Testament Heroes. He uses examples from the book of Acts and his own life to teach proper mission preparation in specific and helpful ways.

Smiles
*It had the perfect tone for the targeted audience. It was straightforward and simple without being condescending and had the right amount of cheesiness.
*I like that he used New Testament examples instead of typical Book of Mormon and pioneer stories. Missionaries need to be familiar with and appreciate the Bible as well. This approach also made the book unique.
*It includes pages for note taking to encourage study and application, not just reading.

Frowns 
*None.

I recommend this book not only for teens but also for parents who want to know how to help their children prepare for a mission and for anyone who wishes to be a better member missionary.

The Healthy Family Slow Cooker Cookbook Review

One of the authors of the Snow Valley romance novels, Christina Dymock, has also written some cookbooks. I've had a lot of fun reviewing her latest one: The Healthy Family Slow Cooker Cookbook. It contains over 70 simple recipes categorized into poultry, pork, beef, soup and salad, sides, and sweet endings. I tried three of the recipes.

The first one I made was the chicken gyros. I added some spinach for a fresh, leafy crunch and some hummus for extra moisture since I overcooked the chicken. The seasoning was delicious, and my husband really liked the homemade tzatziki sauce.

The second I made was the turkey and veggie sloppy joes. I didn't put in all the required veggies because I didn't have them all. I used carrots, onions, and peppers, and added mushrooms because we love them. Next time I would definitely include celery. I served the sandwich on whole wheat hamburger buns instead of crispy rolls and had veggie chips as the side. I wouldn't say the flavor reminded me of a sloppy joe, but I still thought it was very yummy.

The last one I made was the cookie bar. This one wasn't my favorite. It reminded me of a blond brownie, and I prefer my brownies dark and fudgy. The boys gobbled it up, though! The directions didn't specify the heat setting, so I started on low to be safe. The cookie wasn't baking, so I switched it to high and ended up overcooking it. Just a tip: the top may still look raw even when it's done (at least, to me it did). The plus side is that the clean-up was a million times easier than it is after making cookies the traditional way!

Smiles
*The cookbook motivated me to use my slow cooker more. It was much more enjoyable preparing things early and not having to scramble around trying to figure out dinner in the evening with hungry, whiny boys.
*The recipes are easy to alter to fit your needs. I normally don't have all the ingredients needed for a recipe, so I appreciated that I could make changes and still have it come out great.
*The meals are simple and most are loaded with vegetables. They are also kid friendly. My boys ate both meals without complaint, which is how I determine a dinner's success!

Frowns
*This is where I get nitpicky as an editor. For the most part, I loved the layout. It was simple and clean, exactly my style. However, I prefer directions in bullet or numbered form, because it's easier to find your place in the recipe and divide it into steps. I also thought some of the photos were less professional looking than others, particularly the ones that were super close up or had poorer lighting.

Overall, this cookbook is a great resource for planning easy, healthy meals, whether you're a busy mom or not!

Summer in Snow Valley Clean Romance Novels

Remember my feature post and review of the romance novel set Christmas in Snow Valley? Well, the authors have come out with another set for some clean summer romance reading! And the best part is that, like last time, the book set will be on sale for $0.99 for a limited time, so buy your digital copy of Summer in Snow Valley (Snow Valley Romance Anthologies Book 2) today!

The #1 Bestselling Amazon authors of Christmas in Snow Valley have teamed up again with six wonderful summer romances that are sure to make your summer sweet and sassy!

Catching Caytie by Amazon Top Seller Cindy Roland Anderson

On the night Caytie Holbrook intends to break up with her cheating boyfriend, he blindsides her by announcing their engagement at a dinner party. When Caytie discovers her father is in on the scheme, she runs away from her home in Beverly Hills to hide out at her uncle’s ranch in Snow Valley, Montana. While Snow Valley is a beautiful place, Caytie only plans to stay until her twenty-fifth birthday when she’ll inherit a trust fund her grandmother left her, allowing her to pursue her dream to move to Italy. That is, until she meets Jace McAllister, an incredibly sexy—although somewhat grumpy—cowboy who threatens to disrupt her plans.

Tin Foil Tiaras by Amazon Top Seller Jeanette Lewis

Cameron Elliott has come to Snow Valley to coach Annalisa Drake in the Miss Snow Valley pageant and prove to her demanding boss that she deserves a place at the prestigious Westbrooke Agency. But Annalisa’s handsome and protective big brother, Kyle, is determined to keep his sister from becoming a reluctant beauty queen. As Cameron tries to win Kyle over, Kyle insists some things are more valuable than a title, and as crazy as it sounds, Cameron might just believe him.

A Touch of Love by Amazon Top Seller Cami Checketts

Annie Stirland has endured a lifetime of teasing, embarrassment, and isolation due to her speech impediment. When irresistible cowboy, Luke Wilson, seems to be falling for her, she’s certain he’s too good to be true. A tragedy involving his ex-girlfriend proves she’s right. What man can resist sheltering someone they once loved? Annie knows she should walk away, but Luke isn’t ready to give her up.

First Love; Love First by Amazon Top Seller Taylor Hart 

Janet Snow doesn’t expect to get caught in a full-blown make-out session at her brother’s wedding. Especially not with Michael Hamilton, the boy she’d written off ten years ago. Even though they both agree to no complications, Janet’s not sure they can stick to it given their past. After a trip to the hot springs, a helicopter ride, and a proposal, even the most cautious single mother would start to wonder if true love really is just about the timing. Now Janet has to make a choice—play it safe or trust that her first love could also be her last.

Romancing Rebecca by Amazon Top Seller and Award-winning Author, Kimberley Montpetit

Rebecca Dash loved spending her teen summers swooning over Jane Austen and helping her aunt at the Starry Skies Bed & Breakfast in Snow Valley. But as a recent college grad, she’d rather write sappy romance novels than go out with guys that make her a nervous wreck. When a team of firefighters set up camp on the lawns of the B&B and Captain Wade catches her eye, Becca soon learns that there’s more to a happily-ever-after than a flirty fireman with muscles the size of the Montana hills.

Love in Light and Shadow by Amazon Top Seller and Award-winning author Lucy McConnell

Mercedes O’Shay has sworn off gorgeous men because they have a tendency to break her heart. When she meets her new neighbor, Chet Bauer, she immediately puts him in the Do Not Date category based on his well-defined muscles and stunning blue eyes. But the more Mercedes learns about the cowboy who reads classics and forges iron, the more she realizes the heart doesn’t see in black and white; it sees light and shadows.

"The Olive Tree: An Artistic Adaptation" Book Review

Jacob 5 is the longest chapter in the Book of Mormon, and for good reason. It contains the allegory--a symbolic story representative of human life--of the olive tree. It tells of the scattering and gathering of the Israelites and the role of the Gentiles. The allegory can be difficult to understand in this modern age, especially for those of us unfamiliar with the growth and care of olive trees. Three sisters realized this stumbling block and created an artistic work to better illustrate the allegory. They adapted the text and included calligraphy and paintings to beautify the story. (You can read the more detailed story of the book's creation here.)

Smiles
*The language of the scriptures is kept to preserve its poetry and power.
*The artwork is beautiful, and the cohesion between the colors and style of the calligraphy and paintings is impressive. My favorite illustration is the one in which the lord of the vineyard is crying and his servant is comforting him.
*It makes a good companion book for scripture study or a family home evening/church lesson.

Frowns
*It doesn't explain the allegory, so if that's what you're looking for, then this book is not for you.

To learn more about the sisters and the book or to purchase this lovely work, visit their site. You can also stay updated on the book through Facebook.

"I Want to be Baptized" Book Review

For those of you who are LDS, I have a fantastic book for you to help prepare your children for baptism: I Want to Be Baptized by Annalisa Hall. This book is excellent in every way possible!

Smiles
*Thoroughly explains why we need to be baptized.
*Great format. For younger children, you can just read the major points, and for older there is an analogy and explanation for each point.
*Includes scriptural and musical references for each point at the end of the book.
*The illustrations (by Corey Egbert) are beautiful, fun, colorful, and detailed.
*All of the above make it very kid friendly. My 4-year-old loves it!
*Makes a great lesson aid for Family Home Evening or Primary.

Frowns
*None.

Annalisa and Corey have also published The Holy Ghost Is like a Blanket, which I really want to get now! It even comes in a board book for little ones. For more information about or to buy the books, visit annalisa-hall.com.

Christmas in Snow Valley Bookset Review

Two weeks ago I shared with you summaries of the Christmas in Snow Valley romance novellas. Now here is my review of the bookset:

An Unexpected Kiss
*It was just like a Hallmark movie: cheesy, romantic, and unrealistically perfect.

Feels Like Love
*This one had a more realistic situation and a family dynamic I could somewhat relate to. I didn't think the surprise ending fit well with the leading man's personality.

Full Court Devotion
*My favorite! These characters were the most likable and compatible and, as a product of an interracial marriage married to another product of an interracial marriage, I loved the interracial relationship.

The Christmas Eve Kiss & Risking it All for Love
*I didn't care for these stories too much, but I appreciated that they touched on deeper, darker themes.

Blue Christmas
*A perfect ending to the set! It had the right balance of fun and seriousness and had a believable story arc and character change.

Overall Smiles
*Entertaining reads that get you hooked.
*Love how the stories all happen in the same place and time with some of the characters crossing over into the other novellas.
*Clean without being prudish or boring.
*Really gets you in the Christmas spirit--and I'm a Scrooge!

Overall Frowns
*Whoever the publisher's proofreader was needs to be fired! There are not only usage mistakes, but also wrong character names!
*Sometimes too cliche situations and descriptions.

Note: Although clean compared to other romance novels, it is still PG, with sexual references, mostly for background info; a brief, non-graphic attempted rape scene; and one story using damn. So if you are more conservative (along the lines of the Duggar family), then this bookset is not for you.

Christmas in Snow Valley Clean Romance Bookset

Christmas in Snow Valley is only $.99 until November 8th.

Amazon * iTunes * B&N * Smashwords * Kobo

Snow Valley, Montana, is a small community with the tradition of doing Christmas big. Festivities begin with tree lighting in the town square the day after Thanksgiving and continue until the culminating romantic Christmas Ball. From the Polar Express to a Winter Carnival, there’s something for every wonder-filled  child—and every couple who’s in love—or about to be.

An Unexpected Kiss by Cindy Roland Anderson
Lucy Phillips doesn’t want to spend her Christmas vacation dodging her ex-boyfriend, so when he turns up at the airport to give her a ride home, Lucy panics and asks a complete stranger to kiss her. Although the kiss is incredible, Lucy never expects to see the guy again. Is it bad luck or destiny when Lucy comes down with a sore throat and the new doctor in Snow Valley is none other than the guy she kissed at the airport?

Feels Like Love by Jeanette Lewis
Christmas in Snow Valley is the perfect way for April Winston to introduce her city slicker fiancé, Scott Mecham, to life on a farm. If only Wade Hadley, hometown boy and high school sweetheart, will cooperate! But Wade has no intention of letting April go without a fight. This Christmas, Wade is determined to overcome their painful past and show April that she already has what she’s been seeking all along.

Full Court Devotion by Cami Checketts
Kazlyn is too busy with her schooling and future plans to enjoy life, let alone fall in love with a man who has heartbreak written all over him. Tyrese Hamilton, a college basketball star and major heartthrob, is intrigued when Kazlyn doesn't pursue him or even seem interested. Ty's career is in jeopardy, and he needs a miracle and Kazlyn to save him.

The Christmas Eve Kiss by Taylor Hart
When Molly O’Hare gets a prediction that she will kiss her true love on Christmas Eve, she thinks it’s utterly ridiculous. But when she gets teamed up with Kevin Snow, aka her ex-boyfriend, to decorate a Christmas tree, things start to change. Too bad getting over the past is hard and seeing him kiss another girl is even harder. Now Molly is left with a choice—run away from home and heartbreak or let Christmas work out a miracle all of its own.

Risking it all for Love by Award-Winning author, Kimberley Montpetit
Ever since her high school boyfriend's death from a car accident three years earlier, Jessica Mason and her hometown of Snow Valley, Montana, with all its awful memories, have not been compatible. Running away to New Orleans on a ballet scholarship, Jessica cringes when she thinks about confronting Pastor John and the community church--she doesn't want to talk about God, not after He took Michael, the boy she was going to marry ever since third grade.

In the local scene of funky New Orleans, Jessica seeks out Madame LaBlanc, hoping Michael will absolve her of her guilt the night of the car accident in a seance, but the spirit world is silent and she fears the grief will drown her.

Finally succumbing to family pressure, Jessica reluctantly returns for Christmas - and the little town of Snow Valley does Christmas big. When she visits Michael’s grave in the church yard, Jessica is shocked to meet handsome James Douglas, Pastor John’s nephew, who’s studying for the ministry. No, she is not going to be attracted to someone who wants to be a preacher! Definitely not compatible! But James Douglas is unlike any minister-in-training she's ever met. James can not only dish back Jessica’s finely tuned sarcasm but understands grief all too well, turning Jessica’s world upside down.

Can Jessica forgive herself for that terrible, fateful night? Can she take another risk on love?

Blue Christmas by Lucy McConnell
As head of Snow Valley hospital's fundraising effort, Paisley Hackett barely has time to organize the craft show, cookie decorating party, and the annual Christmas Ball. What she doesn't have time for is falling in love with Clay Jett, the incredibly handsome bass player who sweeps into town. She's been burned by a tourist romance before and, with everything going on, Paisley will have to work overtime to protect her heart from Clay and his swoon-worthy ballads.

Click any link at the top to buy your copy of Christmas in Snow Valley today while the price is low!

10 Books That Have Stayed with Me

I've seen the "10 books that stayed with you" challenge going around Facebook, but I thought I'd post it here instead. Note, these are books that have stuck with me, not necessarily my top 10 favorite (though they are in the top 20).

10. The Giver by Lois Lowry

This book really opened my eyes to the value of agency, an important doctrine in my religion.

9. Holes by Louis Sachar

The intertwined stories show how our actions affect others whether or not we realize it and how trials can become blessings.

8. The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

I loved this book for making the characters break out of stereotypes and discover who they really are.

7. The No-Cry Sleep Solution by Elizabeth Pantley

When I had given up hope of ever finding a guilt-free and effective way to get my baby to sleep, this book came to the rescue and helped me find the balance I was looking for.

6. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

The symbolism in and depth of the stories have strengthened my testimony of Christian gospel.

5. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

My oldest brother introduced this book to me and it positively changed the way I interact with people. I have never had a problem making friends wherever I go.

4. A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett

Ever since I read this book as a little girl, I have wanted to be just like Sara. She is a superior role model, albeit a fictional one.

3. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Who hasn't been touched by this book? The story, the characters, the writing--everything about it is amazing!

2. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman

This book has the power to transform any relationship and restore love.

1. The Book of Mormon

This book reveals the plain and precious gospel of Jesus Christ and testifies of Him. You can learn more at mormon.org.

Which 10 books have stayed with you?

Bible Bands Rubber Band Jewelry Book Review

If you have a girl, then you are probably familiar with the current rubber band loom jewelry fad. I was asked to review a new rubber band jewelry how-to book: Bible Bands by Katreina Eden. It contains 13 Christian-based designs, such as Joseph's coat of many colors. Each design includes illustrated instructions, extra tips and tricks, and a Bible passage to explain the inspiration for the design.

I asked my 12-year-old sister-in-law for help with the review since I do not have a loom. She made these two designs and shared with me her thoughts:

"Living Waters of Everlasting Life"

"God Created the Beautiful World for Me"

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*The instructions are easy to follow, and colorful photos for every step are included.
*The designs are very enjoyable and addicting to make!
*There are designs appealing to young boys as well.
*The designs relate to specific verses or stories from the Bible that reach across all Christian denominations.
*Makes a great after-church activity or religious gift!

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*Designed exclusively for the Rainbow Loom brand, with some patterns requiring two looms.

Get your Bible Bands book today through Amazon so your kids can start making this fun faith-based rubber band jewelry!

Darling Magazine

A few months ago, I stumbled upon Darling Magazine, thanks to Meant4More Apparel's Facebook page. The magazine's mission statement is eloquently written:

Darling Magazine categorizes their topics under lovely labels for women, like "Hostess" and "Intellectual." Subjects cover every aspect of a woman's life, whether she stays at home or works, is married or single, has children or not. I love their "What Makes Us Different?" page, which contrasts their magazine to mainstream women's magazines.

You can subscribe to the 150+-page, monthly printed magazine of articles and photography (always original content not featured on their blog) for $20 every 3 months, which includes the digital version. Or you can just buy the digital version for $5 every month. Check out their beautiful blog to get a sample of their content and writing style.

Things I've Learned from Murder Mystery Books & Crime Shows

During my first trimester, I read a ton of Agatha Christie murder mysteries to get me through the morning sickness. The books, and shows like Law & Order: SVU, have taught me some very important things:

1. One murder always leads to a second or more. Just like lies.
2. Never hide anything from the police, even if it isn't relevant to the case. They will discover it and air out your dirty laundry in front of everyone.
3. Never confront a murderer or criminal about the murder or criminal activity. Friends and family can turn on you to save their own hides. Go straight to the police and let them take care of it.
4. Blackmailing a murderer always results in your own murder. 
5. If you disregard the previous two tips, always tell someone where you are going and who are you meeting, especially if you are a witness or blackmailer.

Living in the Light Book Review

There are many people close to me who battle depression, and although I am not clinically depressed, I am easily discouraged and often lack motivation. So when I was presented with the opportunity to review a book about fighting depression, I said yes. I'm glad I did.

Living in the Light: How to Fight Through the Darkness of Depression and Anxiety, by Lacey A. West and Gary L Anderson, offers simple (but not necessarily easy!) and realistic solutions that apply to everyone wanting to change their thoughts and attitudes for the better. It is also a great book for those with family and friends who are depressed so they can understand depression better and learn how to help their loved ones.



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*Easy, well written read.
*Supported by lots of reputable sources, both scientific and spiritual. (Note: Although any Christian could read and gain from this book, it is written from an LDS perspective and includes LDS scripture and doctrine.)
*Invites readers to take action through specific exercises and activities.
*Offers encouragement and hope.
*Provides real-life examples, both from Lacy's life and Dr. Anderson's patients.

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*None.

Learn more about Living in the Light--due out January 8, 2013--on its official site, Facebook, and Lacey's blog. You can pre-order it at Amazon or Barnes & Noble.