2010 at a Glance.

To wrap up 2009 I did an entry showing the highlights, as a recap of a great year. In similar fashion I want to give 2010 it's due because this really has been the best year of my life. It has been tough and challenging and full of obstacles but as I say goodbye to this year it's with sadness, for despite the bad there has been an overwhelming amount of good this year. So join me (tearfully if you must) in flashing this year before your very eyes and appreciate the highlights of 2010.


2010 at-a-glance:


January:


- First off, let's start with this entry where I laid out what I wanted my life to look like in 2010. I later recapped my success with an entry in early December.

- I worked on my condo in my first month living there including painting a wall and changing out the carpet.

- We made the Superbowl, again! I have now had a once in a lifetime experience, twice.

February:

- We lost the Super Bowl.

- I battled through being a million miles from home...

- I got my second invite from Dove to host an event.

March:

- Hosted said event.

- I finally posted a raw entry written months before about love lost. This is one of my favorite entries to date.

- Proof that I did occasionally slow down and enjoy life this year.

April:

- I learned discipline.

- Made plans to take on two new towns for two new adventures.

May:

- I spoke to 1000s of people about, gasp, getting it all wrong.

- I created space.



June:



- First video blog in the new condo.



- I learned about grace under pressure.



July:



- Had a breif glance into life when you love an addict.

- I got to ride in a hummer limo and get trained by a celebrity trainer!

August:

- Mom came to Tampa.

- More raw honesty came out.

September: (the month Yours Truly was born)

- I witnessed a miracle.

- I turned 25.

- I did home improvements. (three entries for the price of one)

- I spent my birthday with the Manning brothers.

- I let my best friend love someone else.

October:

- I was in my best friend's wedding.

- I revealed my 50 pounds of weight loss.

November:

- I got my wisdom teeth pulled.

- Posted before and after pics (ack).

- Wrote the entry that took the most out of me.

- Met one of my heros.

- And made time to spend Tgiving in Indiana (with a Peyton Manning look-a-like).

December:

- I started making plans for 2011.

- Burned some bridges.

- Finished my 50th book (and reviewed it).

- Celebrated a year in my condo & as a homeowner with a Cribs vid.

It goes without saying but I'll say it anyway - this has been an incredibly rewarding year. I've grown a person, Christian, daughter, friend, sister, leader, and blogger. I look forward to 12 more months of adventures next year. Thank you for being a part of this year. Stick around because it's only going to get better from here.

Love,
B

Book Review: A Million Little Pieces & The End of The List.

Before I get on with this book review I would like to take this time to celebrate the meeting of a challenging goal - I have now completed 50 books in the year 2010! My friend, Joy, asked me back in December of last year if I would set out to read 50 books with her this year. I quickly agreed thinking 50 didn't sound so overwhelming. Later, as I drove home I realized that was almost a book a WEEK! In what has been in some ways the craziest year of my life to date, it was a challenge. But I'm thankful to Joy because her challenge pushed me to make reading a priority this year.


At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I truly believe that access to literature and the ability to read are a gifts. I try my hardest not to take them for granted. I have learned and expanded my mind through literature this year and have stretched myself to expand my reading horizons. I have truly read a little bit of everything this year. Autobiographies, fiction, non-fiction, christian literature, bible studies, memoirs, etc. You can find the now completed list of my readings here. Also, I've now linked to reviews for any of the books from this list that I have written about along the way. So if you're looking for reading material, maybe one of my reviews will spur you on towards something I've read this year.


Now, on with my review...




First off, I want to start by saying I'm not going to give this book my stamp of approval for two major reasons - language and adult content. The language in this book is horrific, which I imagine is pretty true to alcohol and drug rehabilitation centers. I've never been forced to sweep over so many f-bombs in a book in my life. The content of this book is explicit though it could be argued, realistic. Similar to R rated movies, I don't recommend to anyone with my stamp of approval something I would define as vulgar.

That being said, I got curious about James Frey's depiction of his time as a drug addict, alcoholic, and criminal and coming to terms with each through rehabilitation after seeing first hand this year the effects addition has on a person. Not in my own life but in the life of a friend who's spiraled downward over the past 10 or so years. I wondered to myself what that life must be like and the empty, sad existence it leads too. Frey's book was recommended by Oprah who's opinion I rarely agree with but it got my curious and I checked the book out at the library.

Frey's book was met with much attention as it was originally released as an autobiography of his time in rehab but was later found to hold a large amount of fiction. I read it as an interpretive work, one in which he relives as he recalls it, his experience with trying to overcome a disease. His fight against his own mind and body in order to survive.

I was most struck by how young his downward spiral began. He describes his crossing the line from recreation to out-of-control as happening at the age of 10. 1o years old. I remember playing with Barbie and swimming in our pool every day at 10 years old, not blacking out from alcohol poisoning and missing large pieces of time in my memory.

Frey writes himself in what I imagine addicts would see as a hero type role. He doesn't play by the rules. He falls in love with a girl he's forbidden to talk too. He won't follow the AA plan. Doesn't believe in God or a higher power. And immediately after his release from rehab goes to a bar to see if he can overcome his own temptations. He's a rebel with a cause and he's unwilling to take advice. Most of all he finds successes where those who came before him met with failure.

He also portrays himself as winsome in some ways. He makes friends with the most deviant of his rehab-mates and they help him get a fresh start. The fight for him. They lie for him. The protect him against all opposition with in the facility. They also help him escape a 3 year jail sentence - one through criminal means and one who though spending time in rehab is still a judge through pulling his strings. They reduce the sentence he will face when he is released and they both desire to stay a part of his life and look out for him when he leaves.

Hard to decipher through to what may hold some truth but the story did give me a dark look into addition, rehabilitation, and the hopelessness of a life where substances win out as the most important thing in life. A look from the addicts eyes of the destruction they leave in their wake. The hurt they cause. The relationships they ruin. The people who's lives they destroy along the way. A sad reminder of what life without hope or faith is like. Moving, impactful, terrifying, and somehow beautiful, I close 2010 with this dark and twisted memoir.

This has been a great literary journey - 50 books in 2010. I look forward to the new worlds that will be opened through my reading in 2011. Thank you for following along with me.

Love,
B

Another Chilly Weekend.

Picture.

Well I'm headed to the 'lou' tomorrow morning. St. Louis that is. My first trip to that side of Missouri. I'm looking forward to my first view of 'the arch' and of course the usual experimenting with a new cities cuisine. Life has to revolve at least a little bit around food, right?

I thought it had gotten chilly when I was running errands last night and it was only 50 degrees but it's looking like that's only a little prep for a chilly weekend in the L. The temperature should be a slightly terrifying 41 degrees when we touch down tomorrow morning. I woke early this morning to work on my packing. Good thing I had my coat dry cleaned. It's new but for some reason it was a bit smelly. Thankful for 1.99 dry cleaners this week - especially since my Christmas party dress is also now clean and ready for Tuesday.

On a happy note my most recent review was a success on multiple levels. One of my readers, Lisa, has already, bought, read, and finished the book - so my review was actually taken seriously, which I always like. Lisa wrote on my facebook last night:

If that wasn't good news enough, I may have mentioned previously my excitement at being found (via the blog) and asked my this particular company to review the book. It was my first time working with them and obviously, it was my desire to review the book with excellence and please them with my work.

I wrote my contact to give her the links to my blog review as well as a consumer review (on amazon) and received a positive response from her last night as well. She wrote that not only had she enjoyed the review but had pasted it on the Heather's editor who was equally pleased. She also wrote that she would be happy to work with me again and would send me other books for review if I am interested. This was great news.

Well, I best be getting moving if I'm going to have time to stop for a diet dr. pepper on my way to work.

Love,
B

Book Review: Last Night at Chateau Marmont.

Enter: Brooke Alter. A young spunky redhead working 2 jobs as a nutritionist to support to her talented but so far undiscovered musician husband. She's head over heels in love with her cute, charming, attentive husband. The teacher's pet of her hospital job, the one that she hopes will pave the way for the private practice she plans to open a few short years later. The overly caring and concerned nutritional advisor at an all girl's private school who treats each girl as if they were her baby sister. In short, she's living on love and surviving just fine. Until...

After 5 years of marriage Brooke Alter is thrown into a whirlwind by her husband’s sudden, overnight fame. When Brooke’s husband Julian gets discovered and his debut album starts off at number 4 on the billboard charts, her life is turned upside down. From paparazzi to reading about the demise of their marriage in tabloids across the country, to Julian-hungry-crazy-fans nothing in Brooke’s life will be the same again. The question is, can she adjust?

If fame is the test of a person’s true character then Julian’s may be in question. His ego grows faster than Pinocchio’s nose. While he travels the world promoting, well, himself – he seems to forget the sacrifices his wife made to get him there. Asking her to quit her jobs to be at his beckon call and constantly belittling her role as a nutritionist at an all girls school, the same job that paid the bills while he was a starving artist a mere month before. Their relationship is certainly on the rocks.

The tests of true friendship, what really matters in life, and how your relationship can survive sudden success will keep you interested throughout Lauren Weisberger’s latest novel, Last Night at Chateau Marmont. It’s a funny, easy chic-lit read and as always, I enjoy Weisberger's style of writing. I found myself taking Brooke’s side and wanting Julian to realize what he was putting her through. Her way of showing the rumor hungry reporters was an added bonus, as I’ve witnessed some of that myself over the years. A good reminder we should be slow to believe anything we read....people love a good story.

A worthwhile read that kept my attention and endeared me to the characters - even Brooke and Julian's dog, Walter Alter. The drama of their tale may just leaving you thankful for being off the radar and out of the limelight.

Love,
B

The Wedding Weekend - Candy and Josh.

You know I always have to debreif from any trip on the blog. It should come as no surprise to you then that I have some thoughts and pictures to share from this weekends trip to Scottsburg, IN as well…

I finished my 46th book of 2010 on my second flight yesterday – Liz Tuccillo’s How to be Single (a novel, not a self help book…I feel the need to defend myself about that). I’m not going to do a book review on it because honestly, I don’t feel inspired to say much about it other than this: it was not to my standards. The writing was so-so. The plot was a bit tired. The morals were somewhat lacking. And the ending was predictable and a little too ‘I will survive’ for my taste. Glad it’s over, glad to be moving on to book 47.

Thanks to an odd leg of my trip, I can now at Missouri to my list of states I’ve been too. Confession here it did take my 2 maps and some effort to figure out that I was indeed in Kansas City, Missouri and not Kansas City, Kansas. Why they would have a city named the same that close together but in two different states is really beyond me. I personally think that’s a terrible idea. Apparently the Nascar girls sitting beside me on my flight from KC to Tampa yesterday spend the entire weekend going back and forth between the two and could barely tell them apart. Hm.

I always have the most interesting travel experiences. After nearly missing my flight from Indy to KC yesterday, I sat in the very last row of the plane next to a couple who graciously allowed me the aisle seat after I ran a little frazzled and sweaty onto the plane during ‘final boarding call’ (there was a wreck on the interstate and Mom and I could barely get there). Turns out, not only were they precious – they’re moving (from KC) to Tampa in 3 weeks. We exchanged info and I will not be their first Tampa friend. You know I love a new friend. I had such an amazing experience getting settled into Tampa myself that now I really try to make others feel at home quickly.

The weekend was a bit of a whirlwind but of the best variety. I impressed even myself by how quickly I got from my condo, to parking, to the airport, checked a bag, thru security, grabbed Starbucks, and got to my gate – in literally 40 minutes total. Am I super woman or what? It was unnecessary since it meant that I had to sit at my gate for longer than I anticipated but better to sit and read then stand in line being wanded and groped for explosives.

I flew through Chicago Midway for the first time. I’ve been to O’Hare my fair share of times but never Midway. It’s surprisingly small for an airport in the greater Chicago area, and easy to navigate (much more so than O’Hare). I had a short but sweet little layover there en route to Indianapolis Friday. It was uneventful.

After landing we were able to slip over to Dad’s office for a quick visit. He even let us stay for lunch, which by the way is delish – having people cook you meals everyday at work would be life-changing (especially for my waistline). Though my visits with my parents never feel long enough, it was nice to get an hour in with Dad before I headed south to Scottsburg and he headed way farther south to my territory for the weekend of work.

Mom and I went out for frozen yogurt before I needed to get ready and head towards ‘the burg’ for the rehearsal and dinner. Unfortunately that yogurt made our stomachs hurt for 2 days. Ouch.

I wore my fabulous new dress and shoes I showed you all a few entries back, but sadly, we didn’t take ANY pictures of the rehersal dinner. I know, what is wrong with us? I’m hoping SOMEONE took some during the rehearsal and maybe I can find them on facebook at some point. Gr. That’s what I get for being too lazy to go back out to my car and get my camera. Boo becca.

Saturday morning we girls got our hair did… here we are make-up-less but hair done and obviously happy about it.

The wedding day was actually far more relaxing than any wedding I’ve ever been to let alone in! We ate subway and hungout at the house after our hair. Then we got ready at the church, took pictures, and still had a little down time before our walk down the aisle.
Candy was a beautiful bride. I loved her dress as you’ll see in some of the pictures below and she was absolutely stunning in it. Don’t worry Josh (since I know how much you love being talked about on my blog) you were super handsome yourself!

I didn’t know Lauren or Sam the other 2 bridesmaids before this weekend – but once you’ve dressed and undressed each other a few times, you’re practically family. Glad to know them both. What fun, sweet, and special girls they both are. Looking forward to hopefully getting to hangout with them again in the future.

It was great catching up with some of the Coach girls from back when Candy and I met. Laura and Sarah - so much fun seeing you both.

I'll close this entry with a few pictures... (some borrowed from others facebooks - hope you don't mind!)

Love,

B

Cha-Ching & my To Reads.

I'm always on the hunt for Colts colored outfits for games, parties, etc. I snagged this skirt for ...get this... $3 at Old Navy (where I rarely go). But I'd spy'd it online a month ago or so and then noticed it hit sale last week. When I went in today the clearance items were an additional 50% off! While 6.99 would have been a steal...$3 was even better! So exciting.

As for what's on my weekend reading list I figured since a few of my newer readers have taken an interest in my reading material - I'd show you what's coming up next. This weekend I will be finishing up the last few pages of Gigi Levangie Grazer's novel 'Queen Takes King' as it was leant to me by a coworker and I was ready for a bit of mindless reading material (Grazer is good for this). Little substance but a bit of New York flare.

Next up after finishing Grazer I'm back to the library pile with...

How to be Single came highly recommend on several websites and I've see the cover on a few blog pages lately. I'm interested to try about Tuccillo, whom I've never read (or heard of) before. This one may be worth reviewing for you all. If it's good I may just get it done this weekend. If it's sunny I'll be poolside with my book and if it's rainy (as predicted) I'm going to hole up in the 'batch pad' and blaze through these.

If (or when) I finish How to be Single I will be reading this from the BBC list I printed earlier this year...

I try to make myself read the occasional 'classic'. Good literature is so hard to find these days.

I'll keep you up to date as time goes on.

Love,

B

Book Review: The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake

By request, I’m posting my thoughts about Aimee Bender’s newest magical realm novel, The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake. Bender, author of ‘Girl with the Flammable Skirt’ and ‘Willful Creatures’ is known for her ability to intertwine dark, sad themes with a light, airy blend of magic. Lemon Cake is no exception.

At the age of nine Rose discovers her ability to taste the preparer’s feeling in all food. Suddenly homemade meals are speaking to her and what they have to say is less than inviting. From the ability to taste anger, sadness, depression, and discontentment in first her mother’s home cooking and later in a variety of foods prepared in her cafeteria at school and in restaurants, Rose is overwhelmed by others emotions with every bite. At nine, she finds herself trying to carry the weight of others feelings as she fights against her strange ‘gift’.

This book is not for the grammar nazi – as there is not one single quotation mark in Bender’s novel. The format of her writing may be distracting to those who are ‘picky’ about writing rules. She breaks the rules and draws your attention only to the storyline. While not my format of choice I appreciate the desire to ‘just write’. She crafts her descriptions with eloquence and displays emotion on a wide scale with fluidity.

Dark and depressing but carefully crafted, the Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake is a novel unlike any I’ve read this year. I find that even having finished the book I’m left with an unsettled feeling. What just happened? I neither loved nor hated it and hesitate to recommend it or caution against it as a result. While I don’t wish I hadn’t read it, I wouldn’t say that I enjoyed it either.

Love,
B

Note: I find that I am recently very turned off to the Oprah bookclub reads. This may be my last of hers for a while.

Review: Vanishing Act.

I 'met' Liz Johnson while she was working for the WaterBrook Multnomah 'Blogging for Books' program. She was my main contact and we e-mailed once or twice a month as she invited me to review books and I either confirmed or denied my desire to be involved in that particular book tour.

I was sad when she e-mailed to say she was moving on from the program but rejoiced with her when I later received an invite to review her second novel, Vanishing Act. As a future writer hopeful myself, I couldn't be more excited for Liz to be continuing a career as a writer and since I hadn't read any of her writing other than e-mails yet, I was thrilled to be chosen as one of the 40 bloggers to receive a signed review copy of her book.

I finished Vanishing Acts tonight, my 38th book of 2010! Liz's genre is one I've never read before, which is cleverly referred to as 'love inspired suspense'. Catchy.

The story of Danielle and Nate has a few of my favorite things. Love. Suspense. Drama. And even a little crime! Wonderfully written so that it captivated me without leaving me sleepless. There are twists and turns as the mystery unfolds, that kept my eyes moving quickly as I sought the happy ending. A sucker for a love story and of course a 'happily ever after' I was glad to see that there were rays of light in Vanishing Act.

Suspense is not a genre you often see taken on in Christian fiction but I was pleased to see Liz take it on with such grace. An easy read that packed a punch of a message about our fears and God's ability to handle anything for us, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It didn't read as though it were preaching, but regardless I took away a challenge to deal with fears within my own life and spiritual walk.

I hope to see more literature from Liz soon and certainly wish her the best. A talented writer with a great heart. I know God has big things in store for her and I look forward to reading more from her in the future. I hope this review has sparked your interest and that you'll show Liz your support by reading Vanishing Act as well.

Love,

B

Book Review: The Lost Summer of Louisa May Alcott

By popular request, a book review!

I came across this book a list of great summer reads. It's been years since I read Louisa May Alcott's Little Women but it has a special place in my heart as I associate it with some of the greatest years of my childhood. Exploring life with sisters, a fit theme for a girl who grew up in a house of girls.

McNees does an extraordinary job of telling an intimate story of Louisa herself, in her formidable years. One of the most believable 'historical fiction' novels I've come across. An intricate weave of love, tragedy, curiosity, headstrong youth, and failure. You can't help but think of your first time feeling 'in love', your first efforts at striking out on your own, and even the moments in your childhood where you realized your parents weren't perfect (sorry Mom & Dad).

Most famous fictionial stories such as Little Women make you wonder about their authors lives and Lousia May Alcott is no exception. It's no stretch to believe that Alcott spend a summer similar to the one McNees writes for us here, especially if Little Women was somewhat autobiographical - which it may in fact have been.

A cutesy summer read I'd recommend for a day at the beach.

All We Ever Wanted Was Everything.

I was struck by the title (and cover) of this book a while back and finally checked it out at the library after finding it on one of my 'lists'. Both addictive and a bit depressing I haven't been able to sort through all my feelings about the book. I'm over halfway through it now, a mere 3 days later.

Crumbling family structures are nothing new in 'the land of opportunity' so reading as a family goes through a tough divorce, infidelity, debt, drugs, lies, and sex. I mean, hasn't this in some ways become the new foundation of our country? I don't mean that to be flippant. It just seems that our culture has adopted all of the above as the new 'norm'.

This isn't a book review. In fact, it's the title of said book that inspired this entry. Isn't it true that at some point we really did want everything? I grew up playing Barbies and imagining myself as this perfect, beautiful woman who was going to dominate the work force and then skip out of the office in my too high heels to come home to my perfect little family (in a pink jeep, naturally).

Don't get my wrong...not everything about my dream life has changed. I still desire to be successful in my current career path and any I may come to next. I still want to prance around a top Christian Louboutins, preferably with a killer handbag slung over my tan and toned arm (hey, it's my fantasy - let me write it). I no longer see myself as the housewife type and I don't picture my dream life as involving kids of my own anymore, just my future nieces and nephews I can't wait to spoil rotten.

Do you ever feel like it's easy to lose sight of your dreams as we're bombarded with phrases like 'worst job market since the depression' or 'masters are the next batchelors degree'? It's tough being anyone in this economy (except maybe Chad Ocho Cinco and his 38 million dollar hands he keeps braggin about) but it's even harder to be trying to get your footing. What is the new dream for 20-somethings? Not having to live with your parents and eating something more exciting than Ramen noodles?

I think my Louboutins are still a few years off. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention I'd rather have a Navy Audi than a pink jeep these days. Just for the record - in case you were thinking of buying me one.

Here's to chasing your 'everything', whatever that may look like.

Love,

B

New to the Reading List.

As I finish up books 25 and 26 for the year, I'm already thinking of what I will be reading next. I have a nice 4 day weekend of relaxation followed by 6 days on beaches in South Carolina to get some serious reading in. I plan to start with these 3:



I LOVE Kelly Cutrone! I believe I've blogged about this previously but from 'Kell on Earth' to her rolls in 'The Hills' and now 'The City' - I have fallen in love with her straight forward style. She isn't afraid to bring tears to her interns eyes and make grown men cower in fear. I love that about her. Life and success belong to those who go after what they want, without fear of failure, does it not? She is my kind of girl.


I love me some Coco as well and have had this book on my Kindle 'to read' list for months now. I'm finally going to bite the bullet it, buy it and probably soak up all the fabulous advice in a day or two. After reading, 'How to be a Hepburn in a Hilton World' I'm kind of into these icon advice type books. Go figure.

A new book from my very favorite author! I was so excited when I found out about the release of Picoults most recent book, House Rules. I've been protesting on Amazon to the Kindle version being 15 bucks, as I think that's outrageous for an ebook. But lets be honest if the price doesn't come down soon, I'll be forced to buy it anyone....I NEED to read this book.

Still taking ideas and suggestions. : ]

Love,

B

8 Days!

So my vacation to the Carolinas is only 8 days away and I can hardly wait! I'm so excited about my trip I'm not even dreading that I will again have to pack a bag (I'm still working on unpacking from my last flight) and take 2 more flights to get there (layovers are the bane of my existence!). Now that is true excitement (for me).

The days until then we'll not be uneventful, however. Tonight I must finally cage myself into the condo and get some cooking and cleaning done for this eventful week at home. Tomorrow on our lunch break my department (which is 3 people small) is coming over for lunch. My director has never seen the condo (ack!). On the menu is White Chicken Lasagna - prepared at a previous session at Dinner Done.

While I'm already heating up the kitchen cooking tonight, I'm going to go ahead cook lunch for my Wednesday company! I'm having our interns over for lunch @ my place Wednesday. We have 6 interns this summer, which is intense. But I believe only four of them will be around for the fun. On the menu for Wednesday lunch are double stack dillas (also made at dinner done) and they're bringing dessert, chip n salsa, and drinks. Should be a fun chance to get to know them a little better - outside of the office environment.

Small group is taking a break for the 4th this week so I will have Thursday blissfully to myself before I start a 4 day weekend of relaxation, sun, workouts, and the like. I plan to get a great base tan working before I head up north to 6 days of beaches with my family. That way when I return to work, church, etc I will look like I've really been on a vacay. I love that feeling.

Still not certain how I want to celebrate the 4th this year. Honestly, my only request is that it involves fireworks! I never use to be into fireworks (even as a kid) but in my old age I'm growing more sentimental and my family has had some great 4th of Julys over the years. Seems only right I ring in this years with the traditional watching of a firework show. Considering a festival out in St Pete Friday night perhaps. We shall see.

Update on my reading: I'm still iffy on my feelings towards The Red Tent (62% done) and am closing in on the halfway mark for 'Sweet Ruin', for which my interest is mounting. Hoping to finish both this week so that I will enter July on book 27 of 50 for this year. Though I expect that I will pull ahead of my personal goals for reading over my week at the beach. Between 4 plane flights, a car ride, the beach, and nights in with the fam I expect I will knock out quite a few books in that time.

I'm once again taking recommendations, so if anyones read a good one lately - hit me up.

Love,
B

Updates, Updates.

Hello Darlings.


Life remains busy in the bay area for this go-getter. Booked 2 more flights for 2010 this week - to Indiana for Candy's Wedding (free flight courtesy of Southwest - love ya!) and to Nashvegas in August for work. I leave in 12 days for Myrtle Beach & Isle of Palms with la familia (that's pretty much all the Spanish I know, be impressed). I fly as much as a bird these days...I may just forget how to keep my feet on the ground by December.


This weekend I'm staying put and spending time with my Tampa family - the Huhtas. Sweet Bryn's turning 18 this weekend! Can't wait to celebrate her @ Ellas in Seminole Heights (the cutest little place you ever did see!). Can't decide what to wear...what do you all think of this dress:

Image borrowed from here.

This dress was a fabulous on sale find at the local Marshalls btw - Dave Ramsey approved. I've tried it with nude Guess heels and with a Stella and Dot bib necklace and black peep toes. Votes are welcome for which to sport this weekend. I guess nude heels little or no jewelry would be more casual. Hmm.

Found a cute pair of jeans on sale at Gap for $13 bucks today. No lie. $13. Amazing. Every once in a while you walk in and hit the jackpot. I rarely even set foot in a Gap since preppy isn't really my style. I like a little more color and glitz in my life then the typical Gap shopper - but as with any store you never know what you'll find that you can work into the perfect little outfit.

You may have noticed I've been adding quickly to the book list on the left side of my blog. I am almost halfway through my 25th book of 2010. We're currently reading The Red Tent for book club. Jury is still out for me on how I feel about it. Fictional stories based on biblical characters are always a bit intriguing to me. Theres a little more of a sexual vibe to it then I care to read typically - maybe it just freaks me out that 4 sisters are married to the same man. Having 2 sisters of my own, it's hard not to be a bit creeped out by that...even realizing that social norms were different in biblical days.

For those of you who caught my video blog, you already know that I am now leading a small group (bible study) in my home! That is going amazingly well and I continue to be inspired and challenge by our current study entitled: Girls Gone Wise in a World Gone Wild. She's refreshingly frank and I appreciate a to-the-point gal. I am pleased and grateful for how the group is taking off...God is so good.

Oh yeah, I can't believe I almost forgot... I won biggest loser (the work edition). It always feels good to win but honestly, the contest itself was great for all of us and together the 3 of us lost over 40 lbs in 10 weeks. So it was a great team effort to get healthy and fit for the summer (and forever). I considered showing you all my before and after pics but just couldn't bring myself to post my double chin on the internet. Gross.

Who's got exciting plans for the 4th of July? My only request is a tan and some fireworks. I don't care where or with who. Still working on those deets.

Love,

B

Indivisible.

Christian literature meets 'Criminal Minds' in a story that begins with the police cheif of a small Colorado town finding 2 mutilated raccoons. Jonah Westfall delves into the mystery knowing this act threatens the peaceful nature of his country town. Torn between a toxic relationship with a childhood friend and his teetering sobriety he learns the danger of doing life alone.

Solid character development and storyline suspense will keep this book in your hands. Heitzmann forges uncharted territory in Christian fiction combining suspense and drama with a clear picture of the inner-workings of relationships and struggle.

To hear more from the author enjoy this audio interview here.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging for Books program.

Love,

B

Forget Me Not.

Murder. Mystery. Political agendas. Romance. Christian fiction? Vicki Hinze boldly goes where few Christian authors have gone before in her novel, 'Forget Me Not'. Benjamin Brandt whose wife and son were brutally murdered, continues to keep his wife's crisis center open without setting foot inside himself. That is, until a woman, baring striking resemblance to his deceased wife and having lost her memory in a brutal beating, shows up claiming to be her. Ben finds himself sucked into the race to find out the mystery woman's past before her enemies catch up with her. Can he protect her from those who seek to kill her while still guarding his heart and remaining distant and disconnected?

Hinze weaves an intricate web of mystification. While keeping you guessing and drawing you forward in the story she also gracefully includes a romance in the midst of tragedy. This is one love story heavy on the drama. A good reminder that love never fails.

This book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah. You can pick up your own copy on the website and by all means, share with my your thoughts. Happy Reading!

Love,

B

Tidbits.

Almost done playing catch up on my goal of 50 books this year, as a week ago I was about 4 books behind schedule! I read 3 books in the past week to catch back up and have now finished 7 books in the 8.5 weeks of 2010. I finished Shutter Island last night as well as saw the movie with friends. I was trying to finish the book before we saw the movie but had 13% left, which I finished last night/this morning. So, it got done.

This book/movie combo was the closest I've seen in a while. The story was the same, and they used almost the exact same wording. But I enjoyed both, though I'd hesitate to recommend them since there was a certain 'creepy' element to them I'm not sure many of you would enjoy. I personally enjoy the occasional psychological thriller as I was subjected to quite a few semesters of Psyc in college, including 'Social psychology of mental disorders' so I find it rather fascinating.

In other news, the blog hit 12K views yesterday afternoon. So thank you to all my faithful readers, that was exciting. : ] I have in my head a personal goal of how many views I'd like there to be this year. But it's not really about numbers, I know. I just prefer to make absolutely everything a game/competition. Don't judge.

My Mom's continued love for my zebra print theme in my house continues! Even while in Washington DC she managed to find some zebra I just couldn't live without that she will be sending to Florida via my aunt when she comes to see my cousin ball this month. Love my Mom...she's so fun.

Wishing I was going to be in North Carolina with the other 3 Christensen (well, Christensen/Breslin) ladies this weekend. My 'Meme' has a birthday this week and the fam has gathered to celebrate back in my Momma's home town of Winston Salem, NC. Dad and I are however, absent. Tear. But we've been consoling each other via the phone since were both 'home alone' this week.

Wishing my Meme (on the left) a very special birthday!

Love,
B

Book Six: The 10th Circle

I wasn't feeling well leaving dinner with a friend last night, so I came home and spent the remainder of my Friday night in a bubble bath or in bed finishing up my 6th book of 2010.  Jodi Picoult as some of you may know is my absolute favorite author.  She never disappoints me, I've enjoyed every book I've read of hers.  Although, I guess I should admit I never finished the Pact.  I've still got 2 books of hers left to read and I'm hoping my Mom will buy me the newest one for my birthday this year.  She usually buys me the Jodi's as they come out.

The 10th Circle showed the love of a parent for a child and the struggle to help your child through unavoidable hurts.  It highlights the heartbreak of a child after their first love ends.  The story is full of twists, turns, lies, secrets, and heartbreak.  I warn you of the dark nature of any book written about the victim of sexual assault.  But as you would expect from a writer who received her training at Princeton and Harvard. Now, if only she'd show some of the Christian Fiction writers I'd read a thing for two.

If you're interested in checking out Jodi's work the are the one's I'd recommend:

- 19 Minutes

- Handle with Care

- My Sister's Keeper 

Coming in March, is House Rules.

Love,

B

Book Five: Accidental It Girl.

I just finished a girlie chic-lit book entitled, 'Accidental It Girl'. It's about a paparazzi photographer who's run in with a boyishly cute actor leads her down an (in my opinion) overly expected path to romance. The book was horribly simple in plot and left nothing to the imagination. It also, unnecessarily had bad language, which I'm not inclined to appreciate. But it had come recommended and I thought it was worth a shot. I almost didn't finish the book but after spending a few dollars from my precious 'entertainment fund' (other budgeters will appreciate this) I felt obligated to finish. Plus, I've got to get caught up on my 50 books for 2010 challenge.

Here's what I DID like about the book. The girl was totally quirky. I have a soft spot in my heart for quirky girls, being one myself. In my professional life and even many of my acquaintances don't get the chance to see this, as I'm make sure to be organized and on top of things in my day to day life. But my personal life is full of quirk. In fact, once I punch out for the day, I let all my quirkiness come to the surface. That's one great thing about living on your own!

I've had my fair share of...interesting...roommate experiences. But there's something great about being able to check your bag at the door as you walk in each night and just be you. However weird, quirky, open, or odd that may be. For me this could be anything from drinking out of the 2 liter bottle to my obsession with criminal minds, or my hatred for wearing pants around my house. Yeah, I said it.

We all have fun little quirks and in the book, her quirks are what the guy she ends up with appreciates about her. I love that. I hope someday when I decide to settle down (or at least tart seriously dating again) I'll find someone who not only can handle my quirks, but loves me for them.

Love,

B

On my choice to read Steph Meyer's New Moon.

I received this comment recently on my post stating that I had just finished Stephanie Meyer's second book in the Twilight series. The comment:

Anonymous said...
haven't read it, but know it's this generation's "obsession" -- I have heard horrible things about it from a Christina perspective and strongly encourage you to rethink your choice of reading materials. If I recall from the synopses I've read . . . . it's all about a vampire obsessed with an underage girl with whom he wishes to have a sexual relationship? Doesn't sound all that wholesome to me.

My response:

Anon - I'm afraid I have zero idea who actually wrote this comment (one small draw back to allowing people to comment without their name). But while I see great intentions behind your suggestion and think all 'entertainment' should be carefully considered I would offer you a challenge as well. I tell my Mom so often when she makes statements about Harry Potter, Twilight, etc. that there is a level of unfairness in judging anything you don't personally know about. Twilight is actually the first book in...years? written to be a non-christian romance story in which they wait until they're married to have sex. While the vampire (being without the ability to 'die') is certainly older than the desire of his heart, Bella...it is HIS decision that they will not have sex before marriage which at one point he explains as his desire to 'protect her honor'. I give Meyer 'mad props' for this. While, not unlike Harry Potter, there is a magical, mythical element to the characters, I can appreciate the expression of imagination. I do feel, that parents should consider if their children are yet at an age to muscle through in their minds fact from fiction. But at 24, I think I have reached that point.

I take every comment I receive to heart. I really do. I went to someone I consider a Christian mentor of sorts, who is a part of my every day life and I asked her what she thought of the comment. She herself had just finished reading the entire Twilight series because her middle school daughter's friends were, and her daughter wanted too as well. Here were her thoughts, of which I am inclined to agree...

This person sounds exactly like I sounded prior to reading the books.

I found the story to be more about a deep devoted love. She desires to have sex. He says they need to be married and they don't have sex until they are married. They have a child after marriage. The family rallies together and unites when they face adversity. After reading the books, it definitely changed my pre-judged theories.

I don't think that Twilight is based on truth. I don't think it was intended to be a faith-based literature of any kind. And I appreciate concern on the parts of many Christians that I have read comments from, about the desire to keep 'evil' and 'fantasy' out of literature. But while vampires and ware wolves are certainly an odd choice for a romance novel, the stories themselves may be a far cry from what you imagine. I enjoy reading popular books because as people talk about them, I want to have an opinion that is based in my own knowledge, and not in word-of-mouth.

This post is not to endorse Twilight in any way, or to push others to read it. I in no way would push anyone to read anything they feel uncomfortable with, for any reason. If you feel, based on your own knowledge or anyone elses, that a book is not of the level of value you wish you expose yourself, then I would say don't read it. But in my experience, when you keep an open mind until you can find your conclusion for yourself, there are surprises to find.

I am not at this time reading the third Twilight book. Not because I won't someday, as I imagine I will finish the whole series someday. But for now, I'm reading 'The 10th Circle' by Jodi Picoult (my favorite author).

I continue to welcome your comments and I certainly welcome a challenge when you think I am doing something wrong. Thank you to the writer of this comment for your concern and your interest in my well being. I appreciate your heart.

Love,
B

Book Four of 2010.

Just finished Stephanie Meyer's second book in her Twilight series, called New Moon. I had read Twilight (the first book) sometime last year before seeing the first movie. Unlike many of Meyer's fans, I wasn't instantly addicted. I think she's a compelling writer and the way she weaves a story is certainly entertaining. I wouldn't say it drew me into obsession or that I couldn't put it down, but overall, I enjoyed the book.

I will make one comment I hope wouldn't offend Meyer, should she for whatever reason read this blog entry. And that is this, I find it disappointing that the most read romance of my generations literary era has been a book about vampires and werewolves. Literature is certainly not what it once was. While I support expanding the imagination as well as the mind, I find myself slightly saddened by romantic literature these days.

I'm sure some of you are wondering and yes, I will read the next one in the series. I'm not sure if I'll do it right away, but eventually.

That's four books so far this year, but leaves me trailing far behind my partner in reading crime. I need to get in gear!

Love,
B