INTENTIONAL PARENTING

When I picked up the book Intentional Parenting, it was for a two fold purpose.   To learn, and to be affirmed.   As I read and absorbed and pondered, I did learn, and I was affirmed.   Parenting isn't just about the children, but about the parents too.  Three writers coming together, bringing with them their honesty, their invaluable experience as counselors, social workers and executive directors, and leaving the reader with 12 powerful attributes that go hand in hand with what it means to be intentional as parents and yes, as individuals.   Have you ever stopped to consider what parenting would do to you, in you and through you?
Homes and families don't just happen!  We must be INTENTIONAL!   To continue learning through all the stages of parenting, and even finding affirmation in the stages you've already walked through,  pick up your copy today.....and then pass it on to a friend (parent).  

NEXT DOOR SAVIOR

The writings of Max Lucado, in his book, NEXT DOOR SAVIOR: Near Enough to Touch, Strong Enough to Trust,  are a combination of anecdotes and  true stories, both personal and scriptural, that bring to us "real life" and "relevant"  reminders of God's amazing nearness.   Chapter by chapter you will receive exhortation and blessing.  There is NO person He won't touch.  There is NO place He won't go.

If you long to grasp, even a little, and on a personal level, what it means when Paul writes,  "He who is at the right hand of God, also intercedes for us" (Romans 8:34), this book is for you.

The conclusion leaves a powerful summary (and one of my favorite lines), "Yes, he is in heaven.  Yes, he rules the universe.   But, yes, he has walked your streets.   He's still the next door Savior".   Go ahead, read it, touch him, trust him.

Crystal 

To comply with new Federal Trade Commission regulations, please note that this book was provided compliments of Booksneeze in exchange for an unbiased review. 

The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant

Set in Rome during the Renaissance, The Legend of the Monk and the Merchant is a compelling story of two friends.  Bonded together through their very different lives, their very different callings, and each leaving a very powerful legacy.   Not only is the reader left with a great and inspiring story, but also strong spiritual foundations and twelve keys to successful living.  
Whatever your mission in life, be it the ministry or the marketplace, this book will no doubt open your eyes and change the way you see opportunities of service and leadership all around you.    Also included in this book is a twelve week study guide suitable for individuals and small groups.  

Crystal

Tapestries, Thankfulness and Twenty Thirteen

There is something about the turn of the calendar page from December to January that spurs great reflection, more so than any other time.    2012 left me with a tangible list of 1000 gifts of thankfulness.   When I started this journey 365 days ago, I had no idea what an incredible birds eye view it would give to me in that time of reflection.  

Being able to step back and see the beauty adds such value, such purpose, not just in the successes and moments of celebration, but also in the pain of mistakes and regret along the way.  

I like to think of it as my tapestry of thankfulness in all things!

Sometimes in the day to day weaving, it's hard to see anything other than a jumbled fray of knots and random tangles.   The big picture is sometimes difficult to see.  It's not until you look from afar that you begin to see each color and texture and pattern has amazing purpose.  

"No thread of experience good or bad.......is wasted."

#994. Kind-hearted people and good customer service. 

#995. Christmas traditions, bringing us together. 

#996. God's WORD, affirming me, reminding me, guiding me. 

#997. Memories of you....sister.
#998. The gray of winter outside my bedroom window----it makes the colors of spring that much more beautiful.
#999. Life.....coming full circle.  So profound!
#1000. The stroke of the clock at midnight, brings with it, a new year, a clean slate and endless possibilities.   

Here's to 2013 and all the moments of thankfulness that will be woven together, by His grace and for His purposes!

CRYSTAL