I am happy and quite pleased with my reading accomplishments for the month of August. For the sake of brevity, you can look to my "Good Reads" profile for the reviews of the following books:
Changing Diapers: The Hip Mom's Guide to Modern Cloth Diapering by Kelly Wels (4 Stars)
Gentle Birth Choices by Barbara Harper (3 1/2 Stars)
I also read Birth in Four Cultures & Essential Truths of the Christian Faith. Since the latter was on my original reading list, I am reviewing it, but I went ahead and decided to include Birth in Four Cultures on the blog because of how fascinating it was. It was of a different approach than the other birth/pregnancy books I've read, since it was not written for the lay person and masses, but originally a grad paper, so the tone and style of communication is quite different. It is not one I would necessarily recommend to any pregnant lady, or woman wanting to conceive, unless they had lots of spare time to read and could read many other books too. It's not an essential read for the expectant momma, by any means.
Birth in Four Cultures Brigitte Jordan
Truly, a fascinating book. What started out as a comparative anthropological study of birth in different cultures by a grad student, Brigitte Jordan, has proved to open the discussion on traditional and medical birth and the pros and cons that go along with the differing systems.
This was the fourth edition and greatly expanded and updated, and yet it is 20 years old! The original work was done 40 years ago. I would be very interested to read another book of this sort that is current within the last few years. The four cultures are the Yucatan, Mexico, Sweden, Holland, and the United States (California). The first is an indigenous culture that primarily uses traditional midwives, the second, a modernized country where the use of drugs, etc. is very high, yet has a good birth outcome, the third, primarily natural births with midwives at home and in hospital, with doctors to take over complicated pregnancies, and the last, a controversial highly technological, interventionist, drug laden country where obstetricians are the supreme authority. What was fascinating was the fact that though Sweden and the U.S. were both highly technologically and medically advanced in the area of birth (though, Holland is advanced too, they just reject the philosophies of these two nations), they had very different outcomes. The author primarily focuses on the U.S. and the Yucatan in comparison, which was disappointing for me personally, since I was very interested to know more about the Dutch way of birth.
As an overview, The Swedish & Dutch have a socialized medical regime, whereas the U.S. and Yucatan do not. The Swedish & U.S. both are routine in their obstetrical practice of drugs in pregnancy and treating it as a highly medical event. In Holland and Yucatan, they see birth as a normal occurrence in women and completely natural, not needing highly specialized care in typical pregnancy and labor. The Swedish are very informed about the drugs they can use in labor, and even choose which type and when they want it administered, and how much (since they are educated on the procedures, side effects, risks, etc), whereas most American women are completely ignorant of the safety or lack thereof of routine drug use and any procedures done to them and are treated rather childishly for their lack of understanding. The Dutch women are evaluated and screened to find out if they fit in the normal pregnancy tier, or risky, or high risk. They are given care accordingly and expected to labor naturally if no complications are foreseen, and drugs are not an option for them, unless they choose to opt in and pay for all the extra expenses themselves. Interestingly, the Yucatan women see birth as a part of life and typically reject hospitalization for labor at all costs. So most labor and birth in the quiet of their home, where the midwife comes to her.
This book compares more than just the practices of pregnancy, labor, and birth, but the social aspect, the "medical" aspect, or natural, and the cultural implications of such. She urges for certain practices to be re-evaluated, and even gives her input on how to reconcile the gap between traditional labor and birth and the highly technological & medicalized view of birth.
Over all, an interesting book to read, though at times a bit tedious due to the nature of the book being an anthropological study, (i.e., filled with many facts, statistics, data, footnotes to other research). It was informative and useful, though I would not necessarily recommend this as pregnancy reading to most mommy-to-be's, simply because it was not as engaging or *fun* to read, like Ina May's book, which I highly recommend! But if you are very interested in all things baby, pregnancy, midwifery, etc. then this book is for you.
Essential Truths of the Christian Faith by R.C. Sproul Sr.
This is a book that every Christian ought to read, young or old, new to the faith or mature in the faith, as it is a refresher to some of the fundamental truths to our faith. For anyone who does not adhere to a confession of faith, or know the benefits of catechisms, would benefit the most to this systematic and easy to understand approach. But it is so much more than mere concepts! This book is the outpouring of a man who loves the Lord and meditates upon His word, loves His word, and wants others to love the Truth as well, and not fall by the way side of bad theology. And R.C. Sproul is a very gifted teacher, both audio teaching, as well as the written word. He has such a way with words in bringing things to an understanding level that all may comprehend, no matter what their background or how much they may or may not know about the bible.
If you are the type of Christian who says "No Creed but Christ!", or think theology and doctrine to be a hindrance or too much religion and prefer nothing but love and a relationship with the Lord Jesus, you would be pleasantly surprised as you read this book. These are things that make us love the Lord more, humbly bow before His awesome presence, appreciate His mercy, grace, & truth, simply by reading them and being reminded of them. Theology is not bothersome, on the contrary, it is the knowledge and study of God Himself!-the amazing Creator God who sent His Son to Redeem a people for Himself, to love and pour out His grace. Why would you not want to know more about Him, to study Him and His word? This book is an aid to that end.
As to the book itself and its contents, it was a very straight forward, concise, intelligent, clear, and easy to understand in simple yet thought provoking terms. This could even be used as a devotional since each "chapter" is 2 to 4 pages long. And R.C. Sproul does not just spout off mere opinions, but in every single truth he presents and thoughtfully addresses, he includes four or more scriptures for reflection directly relating to the topic at hand, typically old and new testament. Each topic ends with a review to give the reader a concise understanding of what was just read and presented to them. I felt this provided clarity as well as a strengthening reminder for the memory.
There were a few points in which I think he lacked, such as when he talks of Creation. He merely says all things were created and need a creator, which was very weak in asserting that the bible is the standard for all truth and a Genesis Creation. This may be controversial to some, but one of the other truths he presents is the infallibility of the word of God, so it seems he could have been stronger in this (and other) areas. Over all, a very basic and general presentation of very important truths to our Christian faith, when it is biblically based.
God's word is indeed the standard, and R.C. Sproul seeks to show how essential our beliefs concerning the bible are, and what are the common things that hold us as Christians together, no matter what denomination. And might I add, it was refreshing to read this from a covenantal position! You will not waste your time reading this book.
Friday, August 30, 2013
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Failure, Pregnancy, and a New Puppy!
Well, as upsetting as it is, right in the middle of my book goal, I have failed! It seems life has caught up to me. I have not completed a book from my reading list this past month. *Sigh*
Part of my bad reading habit has caught up with me. Namely: reading multiple books all at once. It seems pregnancy is quickly growing and consuming more of me and my life, ha! I'm reading multiple different pregnancy related books, Childbirth Without Fear, Maternal Fitness, & Childbirth the Natural Way, & Husband Coached Childbirth. I did finish one light read in the month of June, Duncan's War, which I have the review up on my good reads profile (a 5 star). I also finished reading Ina May's Guide to Childbirth, which the review is also up on my good reads profile (a 4 star). I borrowed this from my Bradley Class Instructor's Lending Library, but it is definitely one I want for my own bookshelf. I liked it so much I think every first time pregnant lady must read it!
Since Samuel was the one who was the natural birth advocate out of the two of us (I was very open to it, but he was the driving force!), I didn't know as much about everything. This pregnancy has caused me to read and do some light research of my own, educating myself about myself. Ina May's book is probably my favorite, to date. (Of course, that could be because it's the only pregnancy related book I have read cover to cover, so far). Some books you just connect with and are so engaged in that you want to read it and finish it as soon as you can. This was one of those books. It was more engaging than Childbirth Without Fear, though I still want to finish this one. It is absolutely amazing how God has prepared women's bodies for birth! The more I read, watch, and learn, the more I am amazed and my confidence goes up. We ladies do not have to buy into the cultural fear, stigmas, and portrayals by anyone with a negative attitude about labor! (Cue hollywood scene where woman screams in agony and yells at her husband "youuuuu did this to me!"). I am so thankful for the abundance of resources at my fingertips, and that the Lord has saw fit to reveal so much to me to prepare for such a wondrous event. He has redeemed me, and He will uphold me, even in labor! Now, to trust in Him when it hits is the key. (:
My life is just engulfed in pregnancy and baby related reading lately. And I love it! I'm very interested in Cloth Diapering as well, even though I haven't done in depth research about the health benefits of it, I've just heard mommy friends talk about the bleach and other junky things they put in regular disposable diapers. CD interests me more for the economical aspect of it; if you stick with it and have a few babies, it will be infinitely cheaper in the long run. Though I may be changing more diapers by myself if I go this route. (: It would be worth it to save money in the long run though. So many things to decide!
On a non baby note, we adopted a new furry friend, and he is super cute. We named him Baxter, after the reformed minister, Richard Baxter. We always have to have a good solid name for out pets, none of those random names for us. (: I'm fairly certain he is a Beagle and Rotweiler mix, since he looks like a Rotweiler but is smaller. Plus, I did a google search and those pictures look the most like him. On a doggy note, I am working with Lex (our Lab/Border Collie mix) to help prepare her for the baby, and my own sanity. An obedient dog that does not jump on my lap sounds wonderful... especially if there is a baby in my arms! Baxter is very calm and is responding more to my commands of come and stay. If only Lexi were as easy as he was...
Methinks that John Owen might get neglected until after the baby is born, or maybe until I slow down and get a lot bigger belly... which is sad. There is only so much time in the day to read, and I have so much to learn about this new season of life I am in, and about to enter into! So a heavy Theological work like his may not get the attention it needs til later.
I think in August I will dedicate myself to one of the books off my reading list and finish it. Maybe one by R.C. Sproul. And of course, I have the liberty to change my own book list on a whim, so maybe it will just end up including lot's or pregnancy, labor, and baby books. (: In December I will try and do a blog post with a complete list of every book I've read this past year. Counting books not originally put on my list, I have already passed my goal of 12 books. So I'll keep on doing what I am doing, even if less from my original list are read.
What are you reading these days?
Part of my bad reading habit has caught up with me. Namely: reading multiple books all at once. It seems pregnancy is quickly growing and consuming more of me and my life, ha! I'm reading multiple different pregnancy related books, Childbirth Without Fear, Maternal Fitness, & Childbirth the Natural Way, & Husband Coached Childbirth. I did finish one light read in the month of June, Duncan's War, which I have the review up on my good reads profile (a 5 star). I also finished reading Ina May's Guide to Childbirth, which the review is also up on my good reads profile (a 4 star). I borrowed this from my Bradley Class Instructor's Lending Library, but it is definitely one I want for my own bookshelf. I liked it so much I think every first time pregnant lady must read it!
Since Samuel was the one who was the natural birth advocate out of the two of us (I was very open to it, but he was the driving force!), I didn't know as much about everything. This pregnancy has caused me to read and do some light research of my own, educating myself about myself. Ina May's book is probably my favorite, to date. (Of course, that could be because it's the only pregnancy related book I have read cover to cover, so far). Some books you just connect with and are so engaged in that you want to read it and finish it as soon as you can. This was one of those books. It was more engaging than Childbirth Without Fear, though I still want to finish this one. It is absolutely amazing how God has prepared women's bodies for birth! The more I read, watch, and learn, the more I am amazed and my confidence goes up. We ladies do not have to buy into the cultural fear, stigmas, and portrayals by anyone with a negative attitude about labor! (Cue hollywood scene where woman screams in agony and yells at her husband "youuuuu did this to me!"). I am so thankful for the abundance of resources at my fingertips, and that the Lord has saw fit to reveal so much to me to prepare for such a wondrous event. He has redeemed me, and He will uphold me, even in labor! Now, to trust in Him when it hits is the key. (:
My life is just engulfed in pregnancy and baby related reading lately. And I love it! I'm very interested in Cloth Diapering as well, even though I haven't done in depth research about the health benefits of it, I've just heard mommy friends talk about the bleach and other junky things they put in regular disposable diapers. CD interests me more for the economical aspect of it; if you stick with it and have a few babies, it will be infinitely cheaper in the long run. Though I may be changing more diapers by myself if I go this route. (: It would be worth it to save money in the long run though. So many things to decide!
On a non baby note, we adopted a new furry friend, and he is super cute. We named him Baxter, after the reformed minister, Richard Baxter. We always have to have a good solid name for out pets, none of those random names for us. (: I'm fairly certain he is a Beagle and Rotweiler mix, since he looks like a Rotweiler but is smaller. Plus, I did a google search and those pictures look the most like him. On a doggy note, I am working with Lex (our Lab/Border Collie mix) to help prepare her for the baby, and my own sanity. An obedient dog that does not jump on my lap sounds wonderful... especially if there is a baby in my arms! Baxter is very calm and is responding more to my commands of come and stay. If only Lexi were as easy as he was...
Methinks that John Owen might get neglected until after the baby is born, or maybe until I slow down and get a lot bigger belly... which is sad. There is only so much time in the day to read, and I have so much to learn about this new season of life I am in, and about to enter into! So a heavy Theological work like his may not get the attention it needs til later.
I think in August I will dedicate myself to one of the books off my reading list and finish it. Maybe one by R.C. Sproul. And of course, I have the liberty to change my own book list on a whim, so maybe it will just end up including lot's or pregnancy, labor, and baby books. (: In December I will try and do a blog post with a complete list of every book I've read this past year. Counting books not originally put on my list, I have already passed my goal of 12 books. So I'll keep on doing what I am doing, even if less from my original list are read.
What are you reading these days?
Thursday, June 6, 2013
In Review: Dollar NonCents
So I *did* finish more than one book this past month of May, but I decided to stick to my one review on the blog. You can visit my Goodreads Page to see the following reviews:
IndoctriNation, Colin Gunn & Joaquín Fernández
Heroes of the Holocaust: True Stories of Rescues by Teens, Allan Zullo
The Reward of Childhood Truth
As for the books actually on my reading list, it's one I've been meaning to read for quite some time now, as it is written by my father-in-law. One interesting tidbit is that he didn't publish the book to make money or anything along those lines, rather, he wrote it to educate. And as an educational tool, he very often gives them away for free! I gave a copy away a few weeks ago as well.
Dollar NonCents, Peter Allison
This is a very quick read. However, it took all month to read it! My dear husband said he would like to read it with me. One thing about our couples reading is that it is both sporadic and intermittent. (; I said sure, but I have a deadline! I need to finish this book by the end of the month. Well, we finished all 90 pages by June 1st (not including the additional appendixes).
I feel this book needs no excerpts, it just needs to be read. This helped me understand with simple and straightforward explanations, just what is wrong with our monetary system. The Federal Reserve is corrupt and fraudulent, but why? What exactly is "money". What is a "dollar"? Did you know our money is actually debt? This book gives a history lesson of where the Federal Reserve came from, when silver and gold were used as commodities, when we stopped backing the dollar by gold, etc. It also calls upon many experts to testify. It ends with what we should do. Should we go live in a cave and refuse to use the dollar? How can we get rid of this horrendous thieving monster?
Read the book for the answers! It is a fantastic book that shows us where to look for Truth. It was a very insightful book as well as encouraging. It is not all hopeless. The first step is to get educated.
This gets a big 5 Stars from me!
IndoctriNation, Colin Gunn & Joaquín Fernández
Heroes of the Holocaust: True Stories of Rescues by Teens, Allan Zullo
The Reward of Childhood Truth
As for the books actually on my reading list, it's one I've been meaning to read for quite some time now, as it is written by my father-in-law. One interesting tidbit is that he didn't publish the book to make money or anything along those lines, rather, he wrote it to educate. And as an educational tool, he very often gives them away for free! I gave a copy away a few weeks ago as well.
Dollar NonCents, Peter Allison
This is a very quick read. However, it took all month to read it! My dear husband said he would like to read it with me. One thing about our couples reading is that it is both sporadic and intermittent. (; I said sure, but I have a deadline! I need to finish this book by the end of the month. Well, we finished all 90 pages by June 1st (not including the additional appendixes).
I feel this book needs no excerpts, it just needs to be read. This helped me understand with simple and straightforward explanations, just what is wrong with our monetary system. The Federal Reserve is corrupt and fraudulent, but why? What exactly is "money". What is a "dollar"? Did you know our money is actually debt? This book gives a history lesson of where the Federal Reserve came from, when silver and gold were used as commodities, when we stopped backing the dollar by gold, etc. It also calls upon many experts to testify. It ends with what we should do. Should we go live in a cave and refuse to use the dollar? How can we get rid of this horrendous thieving monster?
Read the book for the answers! It is a fantastic book that shows us where to look for Truth. It was a very insightful book as well as encouraging. It is not all hopeless. The first step is to get educated.
This gets a big 5 Stars from me!
Friday, May 31, 2013
Breakfast... Second Breakfast... Elevnsies
*Finally* I can post this. (: Been sitting in my drafts box for 2 months, waiting to be posted, waiting for Samuel and I to announce online we're expecting our first precious little one! So without further ado:
Yes, it is a Hobbit's life for me! Truly. Ever since finding out I was pregnant, I have felt like a hobbit. My way to combat nausea (the dreaded "morning sickness"-not just in the morning after all!), was to eat plenty of raw fruits and veggies intentionally, take all my supplements and prenatals, drink at least one cup of raspberry leaf tea each day, a cup of milk with molasses, have my ginger candy at the ready, and, of course, eat every couple hours. Literally.
So I began joking that I was having "second breakfast". And "Second dinner". But then I decided to look up the official mealtimes of Hobbit's, and their respective names. So without further ado:
Breakfast (seven a.m.),
Second breakfast (nine a.m.),
Elevensies (eleven a.m.),
Luncheon (one p.m.),
Afternoon tea (four p.m.), |
Dinner (six p.m.), and, later in the evening,
Supper (eight p.m.) (only approximate times of day)
I feel this sums up pregnancy eating very well. I'll munch on some nuts, cheese, fruit, veggies, caviar, etc. But those meal times, breakfast, second breakfast, luncheon, dinner, and supper, those are real meals, just slightly smaller portions than normal to be spread out.
I'm happy to report, that I've only had one horrible sick day (pukey included) where I could not keep anything down. My hypothesis is that I ate out twice the day before, and thus, did not eat as well as I have been. The milder sick day was the evening where I had a small snack BEFORE dinner (around 5:30) and then dinner was postponed until 9:30. Oh, what a rough 4 hours that was! I didn't even get supper. I was ready to crash. Sleep also helps. The fuller I am before bed and the earlier I get to sleep, the better I feel in the morning.
I think what strikes me the most (besides living a Hobbit's life as of late), is that I do not crave sweets or sugar, in fact, it rather repulses me!-then makes me feel sickly. Which is good. Fruit is borderline too sweet, but I don't ever feel bad after eating it.
A lot of my new found knowledge about nutrition (and where I go to, to get snack/meal ideas) is from Mommypotamus, Foodrenegade, Weston A Price Foundation, and the best primer to date, the book "Beautiful Babies" by Kristen Michaelis. I HIGHLY recommend that book, not just to those wanting to be pregnant or already are pregnant, but people in general! Everything she says is tailored to nutrition for fertility and pregnancy, but it is so much more than that. It is an excellent book to read if you are wanting to transition to a better diet, but would like more insight. You know what I found intriguing about her suggestions?- She lists organic veggies and fruits as the LAST thing to change in your diet. I know right? Don't sweat the small stuff, but change the things that will make the most impact on your health in your diet.
But I can't complain. Having a half Hobbit's life is not so bad. (: Especially when I know it is full of nutritious delicious food for baby Allison and I. I might even be tempted to call my growing baby my little Hobbit (; My very own halfling!
But in all, I am praising the Lord for this unborn life within me! It is amazing to think that there is a little life inside me, and my first instinct is to nurture and protect him or her. I'm very thankful that He has opened my eyes to His wondrous truth, that I have a fear for the Lord, a respect for life, and desire to love my child. There are many who are not so. They believe there is nothing wrong with the murdering of innocent life... a tragedy indeed!
We are so excited for November to get here! Prayers are very much appreciated during this time.
~*~*~~*~*~
Yes, it is a Hobbit's life for me! Truly. Ever since finding out I was pregnant, I have felt like a hobbit. My way to combat nausea (the dreaded "morning sickness"-not just in the morning after all!), was to eat plenty of raw fruits and veggies intentionally, take all my supplements and prenatals, drink at least one cup of raspberry leaf tea each day, a cup of milk with molasses, have my ginger candy at the ready, and, of course, eat every couple hours. Literally.
So I began joking that I was having "second breakfast". And "Second dinner". But then I decided to look up the official mealtimes of Hobbit's, and their respective names. So without further ado:
Breakfast (seven a.m.),
Second breakfast (nine a.m.),
Elevensies (eleven a.m.),
Luncheon (one p.m.),
Afternoon tea (four p.m.), |
Dinner (six p.m.), and, later in the evening,
Supper (eight p.m.) (only approximate times of day)
I feel this sums up pregnancy eating very well. I'll munch on some nuts, cheese, fruit, veggies, caviar, etc. But those meal times, breakfast, second breakfast, luncheon, dinner, and supper, those are real meals, just slightly smaller portions than normal to be spread out.
I'm happy to report, that I've only had one horrible sick day (pukey included) where I could not keep anything down. My hypothesis is that I ate out twice the day before, and thus, did not eat as well as I have been. The milder sick day was the evening where I had a small snack BEFORE dinner (around 5:30) and then dinner was postponed until 9:30. Oh, what a rough 4 hours that was! I didn't even get supper. I was ready to crash. Sleep also helps. The fuller I am before bed and the earlier I get to sleep, the better I feel in the morning.
I think what strikes me the most (besides living a Hobbit's life as of late), is that I do not crave sweets or sugar, in fact, it rather repulses me!-then makes me feel sickly. Which is good. Fruit is borderline too sweet, but I don't ever feel bad after eating it.
A lot of my new found knowledge about nutrition (and where I go to, to get snack/meal ideas) is from Mommypotamus, Foodrenegade, Weston A Price Foundation, and the best primer to date, the book "Beautiful Babies" by Kristen Michaelis. I HIGHLY recommend that book, not just to those wanting to be pregnant or already are pregnant, but people in general! Everything she says is tailored to nutrition for fertility and pregnancy, but it is so much more than that. It is an excellent book to read if you are wanting to transition to a better diet, but would like more insight. You know what I found intriguing about her suggestions?- She lists organic veggies and fruits as the LAST thing to change in your diet. I know right? Don't sweat the small stuff, but change the things that will make the most impact on your health in your diet.
But I can't complain. Having a half Hobbit's life is not so bad. (: Especially when I know it is full of nutritious delicious food for baby Allison and I. I might even be tempted to call my growing baby my little Hobbit (; My very own halfling!
But in all, I am praising the Lord for this unborn life within me! It is amazing to think that there is a little life inside me, and my first instinct is to nurture and protect him or her. I'm very thankful that He has opened my eyes to His wondrous truth, that I have a fear for the Lord, a respect for life, and desire to love my child. There are many who are not so. They believe there is nothing wrong with the murdering of innocent life... a tragedy indeed!
We are so excited for November to get here! Prayers are very much appreciated during this time.
Monday, May 13, 2013
Redeeming the Time
"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise,
redeeming the time, because the days are evil" Ephesians 5:15-16
Sometimes I think about this and realize how often I fail at redeeming my time. Part of it is that I lack the self-discipline, and part of that is because it seems most of my life my time was dictated by another. Such as, co-op classes, then community college classes, work, then college classes, then more work. It is easy to be productive when someone else expects it of you, but it is something else entirely to be the manager of our home and I am the only one expecting much of my time!-though Samuel too, but in a smaller way (and I must say, he is the most patient man I know!-I am a blessed woman that he does not criticize me, but rather lovingly encourages me). So I am constantly learning and growing in this area.
But there is one area I've found that I do redeem the time wisely. Back before I had this new occupation as wife, helpmeet, and manager of our home, I drove. A lot. It seems I was either driving to and from work, to and from church, or to and from a friend's house. Always driving. But I lacked free time, and what free time I had, I devoured books and online articles. But here I had all this time whilst driving to and from so many places. I don't precisely remember how long ago it dawned on me, but however many years ago it was, I discovered I can listen quite well while driving. Not to music, but to sermons, lectures, and anything that I could learn from! It was my one year at Texas A&M (Whoop!) that I began to enjoy listening to sermons when I discovered Sermonindex. Prior to that, I listened to some things on Youtube. But when I found a source to download from, it was a whole new world that opened up to me. But it wasn't until after I left college that I filled my driving time with sermons/etc. in the car.
But I don't drive nearly as much as I used to. And I have generously donated my iPod to Samuel's work van and his pleasure to use while driving (he drives a LOT). But immediately after we wed, I realized there were new tasks in life that I could actively listen to edifying teaching at the same time. Things like, folding and hanging up the clothes, doing the dishes, cleaning around the house, during the prep and cooking of dinner, to name a few. And I love it!-still love it! In this small way, I can redeem the time from what could be mundane and monotonous tasks, to a time that I truly enjoy. I don't dread these endless tasks (they just go on forever, you know, the rest of your life!), but see it as a time where I can listen and learn. And sometimes I do just put on music to listen to. (: But the important thing is that I can constantly learn, even when it seems there is no time to read (but I do get plenty of time to read in this season of life).
A few of my favorite resources are:
Generations With Vision - A web radio show that airs Monday-Friday that weighs in on a myriad of topics and issues from a biblical worldview. A newsource of sorts that isn't filled with the despair, but hope we have in Christ. It's generally about 30 minutes long, so I'll listen to a few in a row.
Ligonier Ministries - Essentially the teachings of R.C. Sproul Sr. One of my favorite teachers. There are so many different series you can find on this site to download or listen to on your web browser.
Sermon Audio - Like sermonindex, but I just like this one better now. You can find plenty of Ligonier teachings on here as well. Kevin Swanson (host of generations radio) is also a pastor, and I love listening to some of his sermons. Paul Washer is great too. Dr. Joe Morecraft III too.
Monergism - A website with more than just audio teachings. But they do have some free MP3's to download that I have benefited from. They also have great discounts from time to time too. (:
My Church Library - Lately I've listened to "A Critique of Modern Education lecture by R. J. Rushdoony; "Raising Godly Children In and Ungodly World" lecture(s) by Michael and Susan Bradrick. Our church has a lot from the Chalcedon Foundation.
Sometimes I like to put on documentaries while I'm folding clothes. So many great ones out there, especially on youtube. I recently watched Food Matters because a friend let me borrow their dvd, but it's on youtube.
I love discovering new resources, and the above mentioned are just a few that I utilize. What/who do you like to listen to? Do you have any suggestions? Also, what are some ways that you have found to redeem your time wisely?
Sometimes I think about this and realize how often I fail at redeeming my time. Part of it is that I lack the self-discipline, and part of that is because it seems most of my life my time was dictated by another. Such as, co-op classes, then community college classes, work, then college classes, then more work. It is easy to be productive when someone else expects it of you, but it is something else entirely to be the manager of our home and I am the only one expecting much of my time!-though Samuel too, but in a smaller way (and I must say, he is the most patient man I know!-I am a blessed woman that he does not criticize me, but rather lovingly encourages me). So I am constantly learning and growing in this area.
But there is one area I've found that I do redeem the time wisely. Back before I had this new occupation as wife, helpmeet, and manager of our home, I drove. A lot. It seems I was either driving to and from work, to and from church, or to and from a friend's house. Always driving. But I lacked free time, and what free time I had, I devoured books and online articles. But here I had all this time whilst driving to and from so many places. I don't precisely remember how long ago it dawned on me, but however many years ago it was, I discovered I can listen quite well while driving. Not to music, but to sermons, lectures, and anything that I could learn from! It was my one year at Texas A&M (Whoop!) that I began to enjoy listening to sermons when I discovered Sermonindex. Prior to that, I listened to some things on Youtube. But when I found a source to download from, it was a whole new world that opened up to me. But it wasn't until after I left college that I filled my driving time with sermons/etc. in the car.
But I don't drive nearly as much as I used to. And I have generously donated my iPod to Samuel's work van and his pleasure to use while driving (he drives a LOT). But immediately after we wed, I realized there were new tasks in life that I could actively listen to edifying teaching at the same time. Things like, folding and hanging up the clothes, doing the dishes, cleaning around the house, during the prep and cooking of dinner, to name a few. And I love it!-still love it! In this small way, I can redeem the time from what could be mundane and monotonous tasks, to a time that I truly enjoy. I don't dread these endless tasks (they just go on forever, you know, the rest of your life!), but see it as a time where I can listen and learn. And sometimes I do just put on music to listen to. (: But the important thing is that I can constantly learn, even when it seems there is no time to read (but I do get plenty of time to read in this season of life).
A few of my favorite resources are:
Generations With Vision - A web radio show that airs Monday-Friday that weighs in on a myriad of topics and issues from a biblical worldview. A newsource of sorts that isn't filled with the despair, but hope we have in Christ. It's generally about 30 minutes long, so I'll listen to a few in a row.
Ligonier Ministries - Essentially the teachings of R.C. Sproul Sr. One of my favorite teachers. There are so many different series you can find on this site to download or listen to on your web browser.
Sermon Audio - Like sermonindex, but I just like this one better now. You can find plenty of Ligonier teachings on here as well. Kevin Swanson (host of generations radio) is also a pastor, and I love listening to some of his sermons. Paul Washer is great too. Dr. Joe Morecraft III too.
Monergism - A website with more than just audio teachings. But they do have some free MP3's to download that I have benefited from. They also have great discounts from time to time too. (:
My Church Library - Lately I've listened to "A Critique of Modern Education lecture by R. J. Rushdoony; "Raising Godly Children In and Ungodly World" lecture(s) by Michael and Susan Bradrick. Our church has a lot from the Chalcedon Foundation.
Sometimes I like to put on documentaries while I'm folding clothes. So many great ones out there, especially on youtube. I recently watched Food Matters because a friend let me borrow their dvd, but it's on youtube.
I love discovering new resources, and the above mentioned are just a few that I utilize. What/who do you like to listen to? Do you have any suggestions? Also, what are some ways that you have found to redeem your time wisely?
Friday, May 3, 2013
In Review: 3 Again
These three books were vastly different, yet brought much pleasure to
read. The first was the most laborious, the second, a borrowed book that was a page
turner, and the third, a gift from a friend
and very informative. I enjoy reading any chance I can get and I'm pleased that I've
been able to consume 3 times as many books as I anticipated this month.
The Harsh Truth About Public Schools by Bruce Shortt
I think the title of this book accurately sums up what the contents inside hold. I read a few reviews on it and one lady was quite put off by his harshness. Um, did you even read the title, lady? He is unapologetic about his findings, his views, and presents a plethora of research, studies, and statistics just to drive home his point on {almost} every single page. About 90 pages at the end of the book are just endnotes to source his facts and findings. You could not ask for a better reference guide to how awful the government schools are doing in every area for some ammunition against the defenders of a sinking ship.
"Research from the Nehemiah Institute shows that children from Christian homes who attend government schools are five times more likely to adopt such anti-christian dogmas as moral relativism than those who attend Christian schools." pp. 13
"The fact is that government schools are killing our children spiritually, morally, and intellectually. But most of us don't even see the problem;" pp. 14
And it's true. On these three grounds the government funded education is failing your children by a Christian standard. It's no hidden fact that children raised in Christian homes and who attended church are leaving the faith of their parents behind. This is the fundamental reason: parents don't think it is their responsibility to educate their children!-academically or spiritually. It's the highly trained professional teachers who are responsible for making sure my child gets a good education; it's the Sunday school teachers and youth pastors who are responsible for teaching my children about God. He doesn't go into the latter, but definitely the former.
Each chapter is fascinating and a bit horrifying to read. I think chapter two was the hardest to read because it was so explicit in the perversion and morally bankrupt culture in the schools. It’s true, I never attended a public school, but most of my church friends did, and I was invited to go to school events including homecomings. It was through that small window I can attest to the grotesque nature of the schools, so it doesn’t shock me to hear what Mr. Shortt says in his book, though it does make me sick.
In this book you get an understanding of the history behind education in America, how the schools were started and how they ended up where they are today. You get a sense of the political agenda and driving force behind modern education as well as see the painful reality of the failing academic side of the failure. He doesn’t leave out the disciplinary failures as well as complete lack of any standard for morality. And yes, he even points his finger at you [the parent] who says, Yeah, well my kid’s school is different. Above all, I appreciated his research about the very early education in this country and those of reformed protestants influence in education for everyone. At the end of his book he offers a chapter of helpful information for parents who are looking for either a private Christian school to send their children, or the resources to learn about home education.
So what is his point? “A Christian education must impart a Christian worldview in which the sovereignty of God and the central role of Jesus Christ in human history and affairs are understood by every Christian child.” Pp. 315-316. But clearly, this is not the case for public schools.
Beautiful Babies by Kristen Michaelis
The Harsh Truth About Public Schools by Bruce Shortt
I think the title of this book accurately sums up what the contents inside hold. I read a few reviews on it and one lady was quite put off by his harshness. Um, did you even read the title, lady? He is unapologetic about his findings, his views, and presents a plethora of research, studies, and statistics just to drive home his point on {almost} every single page. About 90 pages at the end of the book are just endnotes to source his facts and findings. You could not ask for a better reference guide to how awful the government schools are doing in every area for some ammunition against the defenders of a sinking ship.
"Research from the Nehemiah Institute shows that children from Christian homes who attend government schools are five times more likely to adopt such anti-christian dogmas as moral relativism than those who attend Christian schools." pp. 13
"The fact is that government schools are killing our children spiritually, morally, and intellectually. But most of us don't even see the problem;" pp. 14
And it's true. On these three grounds the government funded education is failing your children by a Christian standard. It's no hidden fact that children raised in Christian homes and who attended church are leaving the faith of their parents behind. This is the fundamental reason: parents don't think it is their responsibility to educate their children!-academically or spiritually. It's the highly trained professional teachers who are responsible for making sure my child gets a good education; it's the Sunday school teachers and youth pastors who are responsible for teaching my children about God. He doesn't go into the latter, but definitely the former.
Each chapter is fascinating and a bit horrifying to read. I think chapter two was the hardest to read because it was so explicit in the perversion and morally bankrupt culture in the schools. It’s true, I never attended a public school, but most of my church friends did, and I was invited to go to school events including homecomings. It was through that small window I can attest to the grotesque nature of the schools, so it doesn’t shock me to hear what Mr. Shortt says in his book, though it does make me sick.
In this book you get an understanding of the history behind education in America, how the schools were started and how they ended up where they are today. You get a sense of the political agenda and driving force behind modern education as well as see the painful reality of the failing academic side of the failure. He doesn’t leave out the disciplinary failures as well as complete lack of any standard for morality. And yes, he even points his finger at you [the parent] who says, Yeah, well my kid’s school is different. Above all, I appreciated his research about the very early education in this country and those of reformed protestants influence in education for everyone. At the end of his book he offers a chapter of helpful information for parents who are looking for either a private Christian school to send their children, or the resources to learn about home education.
So what is his point? “A Christian education must impart a Christian worldview in which the sovereignty of God and the central role of Jesus Christ in human history and affairs are understood by every Christian child.” Pp. 315-316. But clearly, this is not the case for public schools.
This gets a 4 Star. 4)
being, a really great book, useful to instruct, thought provoking/good
entertainment, very challenging, growth as a reader, way more good than bad,
would recommend. Worth reading again.
With the caveat that not every Christian parents needs to read this, but
every Christian parent with children in the public schools, or planning to put
their children IN the public schools needs to read this.
The Last Sacrifice by Hank HaneGraaff & Sigmund Brouwer
The Last Sacrifice by Hank HaneGraaff & Sigmund Brouwer
This is the second book in this series, fictionally set in
the persecution early believers might have endured during the tribulation set
in Revelation. I think it’s fascinating
that they included the disciple John in this fictional series. The previous book was more about him, but his
character is more prominent in this second book. They have a cast of characters all
interwoven, including zealous Jews, Jewish Christians, and a myriad of Romans. Some of the perversions in this book are
hinted at, but not as explicit as the last book, in my opinion. So in that sense I liked it better.
Again, I think this is way better than the left behind series. The history in it fascinates me. The Christian culture is much more vivid, vibrant, and full of life than in the LB series. Plus, this is an eschatology of hope, as opposed to the bleak and hopeless one of LB.
This gets a 4 ½ Stars. 4) being, a really great book, useful to instruct, thought provoking/good entertainment, very challenging, growth as a reader, way more good than bad, would recommend. Worth reading again.
Again, I think this is way better than the left behind series. The history in it fascinates me. The Christian culture is much more vivid, vibrant, and full of life than in the LB series. Plus, this is an eschatology of hope, as opposed to the bleak and hopeless one of LB.
This gets a 4 ½ Stars. 4) being, a really great book, useful to instruct, thought provoking/good entertainment, very challenging, growth as a reader, way more good than bad, would recommend. Worth reading again.
Beautiful Babies by Kristen Michaelis
This is the book given to me by a friend from church. What an excellent book! This is not just for those women pregnant or
wanting to be pregnant. This is an excellent resource for traditional nutrition
in general. As well as a great navigational tool to wade the waters of
"food" in our modern culture. What is good to eat and why. I
appreciated her being a Christian, though I differed with her on a few points.
Overall, a great book I would recommend to anyone wanting a great introduction,
refresher, or more information on healthy, whole, and real foods.
She includes recipes in the back of the book, some great charts and lists for navigating the waters of GMO’s, MSG, oils, and tips on how to manage your kitchen, even on a budget. A very practical book for starting changes in your diet. Yes, it has some wonderful information on breastfeeding, what foods young children should eat, and what to avoid, as well as things to eat for fertility, and things to eat while pregnant. But, it is in general, a great health foods book. The Foreword was written by Joel Salatin! All in all, I am glad I read this, and I use it as a reference guide now. I would highly recommend this to any woman married, with children, or no children but want children. In fact, it may even be a gift choice. (: I appreciate the friend who gave this to me as a gift!
This gets a 4 Star. 4) being, a really great book, useful to instruct, thought provoking/good entertainment, very challenging, growth as a reader, way more good than bad, would recommend. Worth reading again.
She includes recipes in the back of the book, some great charts and lists for navigating the waters of GMO’s, MSG, oils, and tips on how to manage your kitchen, even on a budget. A very practical book for starting changes in your diet. Yes, it has some wonderful information on breastfeeding, what foods young children should eat, and what to avoid, as well as things to eat for fertility, and things to eat while pregnant. But, it is in general, a great health foods book. The Foreword was written by Joel Salatin! All in all, I am glad I read this, and I use it as a reference guide now. I would highly recommend this to any woman married, with children, or no children but want children. In fact, it may even be a gift choice. (: I appreciate the friend who gave this to me as a gift!
This gets a 4 Star. 4) being, a really great book, useful to instruct, thought provoking/good entertainment, very challenging, growth as a reader, way more good than bad, would recommend. Worth reading again.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Vapor
"Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your
life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then
vanishes away" James 4:14
The truth of this scripture has been washing over me anew this day. Some dear friends of ours lost a wonderful godly man to a very abrupt and unexpected tragedy. A godly husband and father, now gone to be with the Lord. My thoughts, tears, and prayers have been with them all through the day since finding out, and memories, like silent droplets of rain, gently drench my soul, remembering my own loss, years ago.
These two verses came to my mind immediately, and the tears began to flow as I poured out my heart in prayer, for these brothers and sisters in Christ.
"Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep." Romans 12:15
"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2
I do not know their pain. But I kept thinking and praying: this is the day of shock. It is a day of blur. This is a time where things get fuzzy, life seems to stop, yet nothing seems real. You want to wake up, but you really don't. The sad reality is still there with you for days, but it never really sinks in. You expect to see their face again, their smiles, their laughter, their jokes. But it's strangely quiet. They are strangely not there. You know in your mind that God is sovereign and has a plan in all this; you know He is good, that your beloved is in a place of no more tears in the presence of our heavenly Father; yet your heart is breaking. The pain is real, the grief is real, the sorrow is all too acute. Suddenly, life is very real again, life is really different without them. You know God is good, but your heart is so wrenched all you can think of is how can life go on without them?
I know, because I had my day of shock. I had those feelings. I had that pain, that sorrow. But it is different for every single person who loses someone they love. Every relationship is different. Some lose sisters, some lose husbands, some lose daddy's. Each one feels a little differently than the rest.
And the absolute worst thing you can ever say to someone suffering the loss of someone they love? "I know how you feel" or "I understand what you're going through". No you don't. No one wants to hear that when the grief is fresh. YOU never knew what it was like to be her sister. YOU never knew what it was like to have him as father. YOU never were married to this exact person. YOU will never know precisely how it feels to have lost what they lost. So please, don't ever say this to someone, even if you mean well.
Perhaps I remember the above through the eyes of someone younger, surrounded by immature people. It has been many years since I have been through a tragic loss of a loved one's life, but I would hope no one would dream of saying they know how someone else feels during a loss. It is just unfathomable to say such a thing to someone hurting. I also remember going through such a devastating loss as someone who did not have any true comprehension that God is absolutely sovereign, reigning on His throne, and that nothing happens out of His will and plan for life. I did not really know that God is good, even in the midst of tragedy, for all I could think of was, "why"?-and it was so unfair. But it's not unfair. God is in control, and He was very kind to bless us with that person's life as long as He chose to. Knowing God is sovereign over all makes a huge difference when going through trials and hardships. When I went through an entirely different tragedy of sorts (no loss of life), it was amazing to cling to the Lord God and know His mercy, grace, peace, and comfort and knowing He was sovereign and in control, and not one thing happened that He did not first allow. As Linus from the Peanut's strip commented to Lucy's remark about God's promises being reassuring, "Sound theology has a way of doing that". So...
Everyone is different. Some people need to have others around to feel loved, and have life and activity all around them. Some people just want to share every sweet memory they have with anyone who will listen. Some people need to be alone. Some people need time to cry, or wrestle through their feelings whatever they may be. Some people want to laugh. Some people want a shoulder to cry on. Some may even want you to cry right there with them. So be sensitive to each person grieving. And each person in a family is different. Some may cry every single night. Others may cry once. Each have their way of expressing their sorrow.
Above all, though they are different, everyone needs the same thing: prayer, and the comfort of God. They all need the saints of Christ to bear their burden, to weep with them, even if it is not physically with them.
So even though you can't know how they feel, you can tell them, "I don't know how you feel or what you are going through, but your sorrow is my sorrow, my prayers are for you."
And don't forget them in a month or two. They are living with a new reality. Next year, remember to give them a hug, send them a card, or a phone call, or text, to say, I love you and remember your loss.
With my friends, all I could do was lift my tearful prayers up to the throne of grace. I know the shock, I know it is going to be a slow process of sorrow and then healing. I know they need the grace, peace, love, and comfort of God more than any other time in their life, right now. But I do not know how they feel. But our heavenly Father does. And oh how sweet it is when He works in His timing to heal the brokenhearted, to comfort those in sorrow, and to give peace that surpasses all understanding when the world around you is chaos.
This life is but a vapor, quickly passing, quickly fading. You never know when the one you love may not be here the next moment. Cherish the blessings God has given you this day. Trust in His unfailing love, and His sovereign plan. Do not take for granted what you have this day. For who commands his destiny? Who truly controls his own life?-none.
Remember, He gives grace to His children, yet His children are still sinners, so they need grace from you and I when they lack grace when grieving.
The truth of this scripture has been washing over me anew this day. Some dear friends of ours lost a wonderful godly man to a very abrupt and unexpected tragedy. A godly husband and father, now gone to be with the Lord. My thoughts, tears, and prayers have been with them all through the day since finding out, and memories, like silent droplets of rain, gently drench my soul, remembering my own loss, years ago.
These two verses came to my mind immediately, and the tears began to flow as I poured out my heart in prayer, for these brothers and sisters in Christ.
"Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep." Romans 12:15
"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2
I do not know their pain. But I kept thinking and praying: this is the day of shock. It is a day of blur. This is a time where things get fuzzy, life seems to stop, yet nothing seems real. You want to wake up, but you really don't. The sad reality is still there with you for days, but it never really sinks in. You expect to see their face again, their smiles, their laughter, their jokes. But it's strangely quiet. They are strangely not there. You know in your mind that God is sovereign and has a plan in all this; you know He is good, that your beloved is in a place of no more tears in the presence of our heavenly Father; yet your heart is breaking. The pain is real, the grief is real, the sorrow is all too acute. Suddenly, life is very real again, life is really different without them. You know God is good, but your heart is so wrenched all you can think of is how can life go on without them?
I know, because I had my day of shock. I had those feelings. I had that pain, that sorrow. But it is different for every single person who loses someone they love. Every relationship is different. Some lose sisters, some lose husbands, some lose daddy's. Each one feels a little differently than the rest.
And the absolute worst thing you can ever say to someone suffering the loss of someone they love? "I know how you feel" or "I understand what you're going through". No you don't. No one wants to hear that when the grief is fresh. YOU never knew what it was like to be her sister. YOU never knew what it was like to have him as father. YOU never were married to this exact person. YOU will never know precisely how it feels to have lost what they lost. So please, don't ever say this to someone, even if you mean well.
Perhaps I remember the above through the eyes of someone younger, surrounded by immature people. It has been many years since I have been through a tragic loss of a loved one's life, but I would hope no one would dream of saying they know how someone else feels during a loss. It is just unfathomable to say such a thing to someone hurting. I also remember going through such a devastating loss as someone who did not have any true comprehension that God is absolutely sovereign, reigning on His throne, and that nothing happens out of His will and plan for life. I did not really know that God is good, even in the midst of tragedy, for all I could think of was, "why"?-and it was so unfair. But it's not unfair. God is in control, and He was very kind to bless us with that person's life as long as He chose to. Knowing God is sovereign over all makes a huge difference when going through trials and hardships. When I went through an entirely different tragedy of sorts (no loss of life), it was amazing to cling to the Lord God and know His mercy, grace, peace, and comfort and knowing He was sovereign and in control, and not one thing happened that He did not first allow. As Linus from the Peanut's strip commented to Lucy's remark about God's promises being reassuring, "Sound theology has a way of doing that". So...
Everyone is different. Some people need to have others around to feel loved, and have life and activity all around them. Some people just want to share every sweet memory they have with anyone who will listen. Some people need to be alone. Some people need time to cry, or wrestle through their feelings whatever they may be. Some people want to laugh. Some people want a shoulder to cry on. Some may even want you to cry right there with them. So be sensitive to each person grieving. And each person in a family is different. Some may cry every single night. Others may cry once. Each have their way of expressing their sorrow.
Above all, though they are different, everyone needs the same thing: prayer, and the comfort of God. They all need the saints of Christ to bear their burden, to weep with them, even if it is not physically with them.
So even though you can't know how they feel, you can tell them, "I don't know how you feel or what you are going through, but your sorrow is my sorrow, my prayers are for you."
And don't forget them in a month or two. They are living with a new reality. Next year, remember to give them a hug, send them a card, or a phone call, or text, to say, I love you and remember your loss.
With my friends, all I could do was lift my tearful prayers up to the throne of grace. I know the shock, I know it is going to be a slow process of sorrow and then healing. I know they need the grace, peace, love, and comfort of God more than any other time in their life, right now. But I do not know how they feel. But our heavenly Father does. And oh how sweet it is when He works in His timing to heal the brokenhearted, to comfort those in sorrow, and to give peace that surpasses all understanding when the world around you is chaos.
This life is but a vapor, quickly passing, quickly fading. You never know when the one you love may not be here the next moment. Cherish the blessings God has given you this day. Trust in His unfailing love, and His sovereign plan. Do not take for granted what you have this day. For who commands his destiny? Who truly controls his own life?-none.
Remember, He gives grace to His children, yet His children are still sinners, so they need grace from you and I when they lack grace when grieving.
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