Dear Reading Friends ~
There's no place else I'd rather be ... all warm and cozy curled up by the fire under the blue fleece throw I gave him but try to quietly grab before he gets it. A messy stack of magazines and newspapers is toppling, the pile of library check-outs grows weekly. I haven't read nearly as much as in previous years and my TV watching is almost nil.
The culprit? Sudoku-X 16x16 Numbers & Letters. The cover says it's 'easy,' but even genius family members have struggled mightily to successfully get through one puzzle. It's not uncommon to invest a week or two of evenings to find, as you're closing in on the final squares, that you made a simple mistake somewhere along the way and the party's over.
I love it anyway. And yes, this is a fabulous 🎄 gift for your puzzling loved ones. Don't forget these erasers. They'll need them.
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| image credit |
Waymaker: Finding the Way to the Life You've Always Dreamed Of
Ann Voskamp
'I haven't just tipped into heart failure right now; I've been falling in failure for far too long, failing my darling Darryl, failing my marriage, failing my sons and daughters, failing the kindest of friends and long-suffering family, failing in bruised relationships, and failing God. I've curved inward instead of turned, blamed instead of owned, controlled instead of calmed, dismissed instead of peeling back everything and lavishing attention on souls just yearning to be seen ...'
(page 266-267)
🎄 click to look inside, get a free sample, or buy
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The Sweet Life (Cape Cod Creamery Book #1)
Suzanne Woods Fisher
My family has been huge fans of Suzanne's Amish series (3 Generations Are Loving This Amish Author) and I had no idea she'd written other light-hearted fiction 'til youngest daughter gave me this book for my birthday. What's not to love?! My Cape Cod home turf, relationship drama, buying and refurbishing an old decrepit shop in Chatham, mother-daughter dynamics, and ice cream on every page.
🎄 click to look inside, get a free sample, or buy
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The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Matters, Ditch What Doesn't, & Get Stuff Done
AND
The Lazy Genius Kitchen: Have What You Need, Use What You Have, & Enjoy It Like Never Before
Kendra Adachi
I read these one right after the other ... an enjoyable crash course in all things 'lazy genius.' Kendra's like a smart, sassy big sister and her philosophy is spot on - 'be a genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don't.' If your life or your kitchen space is out of control, she's the perfect no-nonsense, very fun companion to get you where you want to go. Whimsical illustrations and clever charts, lists, and stuff.
The Lazy Genius Way -
🎄 click to look inside, get a free simple, or buy (on sale for $4.99!)
The Lazy Genius Kitchen -
🎄 click to look inside, get a free simple, or buy
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LINKS
The single best thing you can do for your reading life
Anne Bogel
A Season of Waiting (a free devotional focusing on Advent's history) 🎄
Kate Bowler
Christmas Devotionals for Groups, Individuals, & Families 🎄
Tim Challies
Mere Christianity: 7 Helpful Quotes for Modern-Day Readers
Lois Flowers
How to Start a Prayer Journal
Richard Foster
Writing Reveals What is Alive in Us
Henri Nouwen
Cultivating Attention: The Challenge of Reading Great Literature
Dr. Holly Ordway
Why the world needs readers (like you)
Michelle Watson
5 Fabulous Books for Christmas Gift Giving 🎄
Me
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SPIRITUAL PRACTICES
I've been listening to the books of Hebrews and 1 Peter on the her.BIBLE app. Repeatedly. Sometimes just a few verses. Sometimes chapter after chapter. Hearing God's love letter read by women has enlivened the current sermon series and Bible Studies in my life. Fabulous.
Three years ago, a new friend invited me to get together each week of Advent. And so we began, using Sarah Young's Jesus Calling for Christmas. The reflective devotional readings, favorite Scripture, and the most exquisite winter photography have guided us into a much-needed gentle, quiet rhythm each year since. We're only half way through the book and are in no rush.
Is there a friend you'd like to make space for this Advent? It can't hurt to ask, right? With our ridiculously over-scheduled holiday calendars, inviting someone to walk through Advent with you is best done sooner rather than later.
A huge gift indeed. 🎄
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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ BARGAINS
I love these authors & these titles (on sale thank you very much)
The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Works, Ditch What Doesn't, & Get Stuff Done
Kendra Adachi
$4.99
Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging & the Courage to Stand Alone
Brene Brown
$5.99
Changes that Heal: Four Steps to a Happier, Healthier You
Dr. Henry Cloud
$4.99
Linda
P.S.
Website Updates
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And the bookbag has replaced the e-book deals page! Go here to quickly access 95+ bookish posts any time.
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I just received Richard Foster’s new book on Humility in the mail! Can’t wait…
ReplyDeleteI am so far behind on reading right now!
Well, if you're behind in your reading it's because you're out living a full and fascinating life and not sitting at home with your nose in a Sudoku!
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You had me at "Ice Cream on Every Page" with the Cape Cod Creamery book! The kitchen organization book sounds tempting but how much work? Is the author a minimalist who doesn't have a cluttering heart and so doesn't quite understand the non-minimalist? Thanks so much for the reviews, Linda!
ReplyDeleteHey Maryleigh, what I love about Kendra is that she doesn't have that 'one size fits all' mentality. She helps us ask ourselves what we really value and need in this season. I love that. Life certainly doesn't look like it did a few decades ago, does it!
DeleteAlthough she'd probably think I'm crazy to have dozens and dozens of old wooden spoons in my very tiny kitchen.
Whatever!
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Good morning Linda1 We got our first taste of that white stuff Saturday and after a lovely week of temps ranging in the 60s, reality is hitting us. It was in the 20s this morning. So glad I have remote start on my truck, especially at 5:00 in the morning. My reading for the month has been eclectic to say the least. While at home I reread both of Frank Peretti's first two novels: This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness. At the office, I tend to read more books pertaining to my work. You know...the somewhat dull ones. LOL Just finished "Live Your Truth and other lies" by Alisa Childers. Excellent book! I'm currently reading "Lead Like it Matters to God" by Richard Stearns. Since I am preparing to preach on Revelation at the start of the new year, I have been reading several on it. I'll stop now. Oh...I have never done Sudoku. I don't need any help looking dumb. :)
ReplyDeleteWow, Bill. You're quite a prolific writer at 5:53 in the morning! Impressive.
DeleteYep, I hear you ... two days ago it was in the 70s and this morning in the 30s. Too weird.
Anyway, I appreciate that you have an eclectic reading life. Many pastors I've talked with do not. And I think that's kind of unfortunate because life is eclectic and so are the people we connect with.
Just sayin' ...
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I don’t need any help being lazy, but I might check out Kendra’s books anyway 😸
ReplyDeleteYep, there's some things in life that just aren't worth the great big deal we make out of them. That's where the lazy part comes in ...
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Just started the The Sweet Life, Cape Cod Creamery book yesterday. It's an easy read and I love knowing the towns and spots she is writing about! Nice book to get away from chores!
ReplyDeleteExactly! Sure beats scrubbing toilets or pushing a vacuum around the house!
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You have some interesting sounding titles here! I always appreciate the recommendations!
ReplyDeleteJeanie, thanks! I hope you find something that fits you to a T!
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What great reads you have recommended here, Linda! You should see the mountain of books waiting here for me to read; I just don't dare order any more or Danny will disown me - lol! But, I will keep these in mind, my friend.
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
It seems like it's either feast or famine when it comes to reading, doesn't it?
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I really enjoyed Cultivating Attention: The Challenge of Reading Great Literature and Why the world needs readers (like you). I have Lazy Genius Way in my Kindle app but haven't read it yet.
ReplyDeleteI can't remember the last time I read (and enjoyed) a book that'd be considered great literature, Barbara. That article really grabbed my attention. That key, Cultivating Attention, says it all. I feel like I've lost it along the way. Age? Online skimming? Not quite sure ...
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I always appreciate your book recommendations, Linda!
ReplyDeleteLisa, thanks. I hope you found a little gem somewhere amongst the lists and stuff.
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As always, thanks for the book recommendations. My reading has slowed down over the past three months, not sure why! Have a lovely week, Linda!
ReplyDeleteMaybe it was just too gorgeous out this fall! All we wanted to do was be outdoors, yes?
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I've certainly not done a lot of reading yet this year, had such a busy year in the garden. I hope to find more time to read this winter. Always enjoy your reading lists and suggestions! Happy Thanksgiving blessings!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're here, Marilyn. I hope Thanksgiving is a wonderful time for you and yours to remember and celebrate and praise. Bless you, girl!
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Linda, Wow! 8 books -- I'm impressed! My TBR (To be read) pile grows ever taller. I like the idea of meeting with a friend to do the Jesus Calling for Christmas. I'm going to look into that right now since Advent is just around the bend.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Bev xx
I would absolutely love to hear how that works out for you, Bev! That makes me so happy. Please let me know!
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Linda!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for the shout-out in your newsletter! What a wonderful surprise to see my little article alongside so many other beautiful articles by deep-wide thinkers. I love your list of 5 fabulous books for holiday giving. I think those recommendations are spot on for readers like me who tend to be contemplative. (I loved The Next Right Thing.) Hope you have a beautiful Thanksgiving next week.
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Michelle, it was a pleasure to share your work! I knew you'd be the perfect fit for the readers here.
DeleteREADERS - Do check out Michelle's website - she has lots of goodies for all you book aficianados! I'm a fan.
https://bookdevotions.com/
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Oh, for more hours in the day to accommodate all the books I want to read. All of these sound so intriguing. What I really need, though, is that gorgeous library near the beginning of your post!!
ReplyDeleteI know, I know, don't you just love a wall of books built into a unique nook or cranny?!
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I have been busy with moving into our new house in Ohio and haven't been visiting blogs or writing many posts, but I am glad I paused and read this one! I visited several of the links you shared and The Lazy Genius Way looks great! Thanks for all the recommendations. The Sudoku caught my eye too! I love Sudoku and I like the idea of the extra challenge.
ReplyDeleteWelcome to your new home, Cindy! I look forward to reading your moving story. And yes, you might like the Lazy Genius philosophy as you figure out what's important right now and what can wait 'til later.
DeleteBless your transition, girl ...
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Ah, Linda ... the battle for the coziest blankets is a thing, isn't it? :-) I just put a hold on "The Sweet Life" ... it sounds like a lovely book for this season. Reading Waymaker with a friend was helpful because we could bounce things about the book off each other as we read. Thanks for sharing my Lewis post ... no matter what else I read, Mere Christianity stays at or near the top of my "favorites" list. Hugs, friend.
ReplyDeleteYou're right, Waymaker is a perfect read to talk over with a friend who isn't afraid to go deep. A great idea!
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Ahhh, Linda. I really enjoy Sudoku, though I've never tried a puzzle with sixteen squares! On my phone app, I play and win most of the Expert puzzles. So fun! I loved the book suggestions. The Lazy Genius books sound up my alley. I'm looking into those! I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving, my friend!
ReplyDeleteIt's like any kind of puzzle is the perfect break during holiday prep or stress. I love doing a jigsaw with family. Maybe it re-calibrates the brain or something.
DeleteHappy Thanksgiving to you, too, friend. I hope it's a good time.
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I think I need to check out the lazy genius books. I definitely need some help in that area! And I always find it hard to resist anything on journaling. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteBooks that are fun to read, clarifying, and hopeful. I love this kind of stuff!
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I always appreciate your recommendations Linda. I'm an avid reader but lately I seem to be fizzeling out. What used to be 4-5 books a month is maybe 1.
ReplyDeleteThanks bunches for sharing the book bag with Sweet Tea & Friends this month my friend.
This has been the year of reading-fizzle for so many of us, yes, Paula. I like the idea of allowing ourselves to be where we are, to figure out why this change, and to go on from there.
DeleteFor me, it's been too much time online. Mostly.
I don't like that! That's not where I want to be.
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Thanks for sharing these great recommendations! I loved Waymaker and The Lazy Genius Kitchen, too! 🤗 Stopping by from #graceandtruthlinkup
ReplyDeleteHey Laura, it's been good to connect with you this weekend. Thanksgiving blessings to you and yours ...
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