Far Better Things Ahead

Check out my post at Putting on the New where I talk about moving forward despite setbacks.

Children's Fiction Book Review: Woodford Brave by Marcia Thornton Jones, Illustrated by Kevin Whipple

Book Description:

Cory Woodford, aka “The Kid”, is determined to live up to his intimidating family legacy of bravery. While his father is off fighting in World War II, eleven-year-old Cory and his friends spend the summer building go-carts, drawing comics, playing baseball . . . and tracking down Nazi spies. Right and wrong are more complicated than in Cory’s beloved comics, and he and his friends soon learn that the world isn’t as black and white as they thought. In an age when friendships are deep and complex, Cory makes mistakes and hurtful decisions. Based on the author’s personal experience and research, Woodford Brave is a deeply satisfying novel of summer and friendship, but also explores what it means to be a son, a friend, a neighbor—and truly brave. Includes an author’s note and selected bibliography.

Book Review:
First of all, Kevin Whipple's illustrations add so much to this book. He's created a comic book within the story lines that will entertain readers. I love the 1940s children and their view as they deal with the reality of war and how it affects them, their town, and their families. As I read the story, I felt I had a better understanding of what my parents went through as WW2 hit home. This would be a good book to help kids understand the history, the value of friendship, and family. A word of caution, there are some swear words in the book and some sad events. Overall, I'd recommend the book to kids 4th-8th grade.

I received this book in exchange for a fair review.

Not a Creature is Stirring

Luke 2:28-35
Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying:
 “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
    you may now dismiss your servant in peace.
For my eyes have seen your salvation,
   which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:
    a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
    and the glory of your people Israel.”
The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

The day after Christmas and all through the house not a creature is stirring...

This morning I picked up the remnants of last night's party. My fridge is full of left-overs and my heart overflows with the joy of family. We shared gifts. Some hand-made, some made for spending later. And I loved every one. We added new family this year and watched a sweet 18-month old enjoy the magical chaos. And in the midst, we read of the angels who announced to the shepherds, the birth of the man who would be Savior.

Yes, Jesus came to earth as a baby. And I love celebrating his birth. But more than that I love remembering his life. He walked the earth for thirty-three years. In his last three years he taught his followers and all who would listen about God. He spoke the beatitudes. He preached of light and salt. He was tempted and baptized. He lived so he could die for me and all who walk on earth. But most important, as I told my grandchildren last night, he rose from the dead to offer new life after this one ends. I love Jesus and thank God for his son. Praise God for the gift of life!

It's Christmas!

December in a Small Town

December

Santa and Frosty came from the Marathon gas station in Lynchburg

wreaths,

candy canes grace

small town

Main Street.

Santa's coming,

Jingle Bells plays,

Nativity's in place.

Carolers jostle down the street 

Christmas tea.

Evergreens twinkle 

in windows,

on street corners.

Christmas lives

in small town.

Small town.

My town.

Your town.

Grow up

And grow memories

In small town.

This is part of the poem "Small Town" I wrote about growing up and raising my children in Lynchburg, Ohio.

To read the whole poem go to: 

http://www.pennyfrostmcginnis.com/p/small-town-oem.html

Oh Christmas Tree

Luke 2:11
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Christmas trees adorn the windows of the stores and businesses. Some twinkle with white lights, others don red ribbons. I've even seen a few pink ones. In the morning, while the dark still covers the day, tree lights peek from behind curtains. In our home a silver tree lights the corner with multi-colored lights. And what a fun sight to see a car zipping along the highway with a fresh cut tree tied to the top.

The evergreen tree has been a symbol of hope since ancient times; a reminder that spring followed winter. Since the evergreen doesn't lose its leaves and remains green all winter, it's also a great symbol of life. Because Jesus Christ died on a wooden cross, sometimes referred to as a tree, I'm reminded of his sacrifice every time I see a Christmas tree. The evergreen has life through the winter when other trees stand stark. Jesus offers life in heaven, where God reigns and life flows abundantly. This Christmas as I look at the beautifully decorated trees at a time when I celebrate Jesus birth, I'm reminded of his death and resurrection. Praise God for his son.

Merry Christmas! May peace and joy fill your days.

Merry Christmas!

Tim & I wish everyone a Christmas filled with peace & joy!