Movie & Book Reviews

Hey bloggy friends! It's been a long time since I've written about anything not pertaining to mommy-hood. Funny how that happens sometimes! So I thought I'd share some of the things that I've been reading & watching lately...and get some suggestions from y'all as well :)

True Grit:

Hmmm, where do I begin? I know a LOT of people really, really liked this movie. It was recommended by quite a few friends and family members. I; however, was not a fan. Something about Maddie...I just found her to be, well, annoying. I actually really like Westerns usually, but I just couldn't get into this one. And to me, Matt Damon just didn't fit somehow...especially as someone from Texas! When the movie ended I couldn't help feeling perplexed. Both Chris and I felt like it was a waste of 2 hours. Sad, I know.

The Company Men:

I didn't love this movie either. In it's defense, it was the 2nd movie of the night and we (I...Chris was asleep!) didn't start it until almost 11. So, maybe it's a little unfair to judge it so harshly since I could barely hold my eyes open for it! But, I'm one of those people who HAS to see the end if I start it. Worst movie ever? I'll stick it out to the credits. I just can't help it.

Anyway, back to the movie. Again, I just didn't get into it. I really liked the actors, and the previews made it look really interesting. But, in the end, I think it just fell flat. Maybe it was an accurate portrayal of how it feels to lose your job, especially as an executive...I don't know. But even so, there was no really "gripping" part. None of the characters really made you "feel" for them. One was a jerk (in the beginning), one was having an affair (sooo, jerk), and the other was just pitiful. Sad, yes. Memorable? No.

Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo:

Wow. There really are no words. It's a short book that I finished in about 1.5 days because I just couldn't put it down. It was engaging, heart-tugging and remarkable. I thought it was sincere in its message, and I just couldn't help but feel a little bit more joyful when I finished it. Death is daunting to me. I felt like this was a little glimpse of what is in store for us (in heaven), in an easy-to-understand, and vivid version. That's what this book is, I guess. Many books in the Bible explain what heaven will look like, some in great detail, but sometimes the language and wording is difficult to wrap my head around. This book, coming from a 4 year old, isn't difficult at all. It stays true to what I've read in scripture but somehow enhances the images in my mind. I'd highly recommend it to anyone :)

What I'm Currently Reading:

The Ministry of Motherhood by Sally Clarkson

Praying the Scriptures for Your Children by Jodie Berndt

Do you have any good book or movie recommendations?? I'm really not picky about movies (though my reviews might say otherwise!). I usually like anything :) And while I don't have a whole lot of time to read anymore, I LOVE to do it when I get the chance! So any suggestions would be great!

Hope you all had a fantastic weekend!

A Blog Book Club...Who's In???

I've been thinking about doing this for awhile now, and though I LOVE the idea, I'm not sure how well it will work. BUT, I'm going to try it anyway, and I hope you'll join me for something super fun & a little different...a Blog Book Club :)

I seriously love Beth Moore. I've done a few of her Bible Study's, and have really enjoyed them. And as much enjoyment as I get out them, the best part is that I truly learn from them. Beth has an unique way of putting things into perspective. She doesn't necessarily simplify things, she just uses her gift of writing to make scripture a little easier to delve into. She recently wrote a new book called, "So Long Insecurity...you've been a bad friend to us", and ever since I heard about it, I've been wanting to read it.

On the surface, I'm not an insecure person. But, like everyone (I think), once I really look at myself, and dig a little deeper, those insecurities are there...hindering my relationships, and limiting my life. After reading some reviews, it sounds like this book isn't as "scripture based" as most of her other books, and is more autobiographical than anything that she has ever written. It's about women; their quest for perfection & acceptance. I, for one, am anxious to see what she has to say.

I couldn't find this book on the shelf (Columbus isn't exactly known for it's great bookstores!), so I've had to order it. I'm kinda glad though, because that gives everyone a little time to go out and buy it for themselves (or borrow it, or check it out of the library). I'm thinking of starting this little adventure in book-clubbing on Monday March 15th and I'd love for you all to join me!! Go ahead and start reading, and we'll review/discuss the first chapter on that first day. I'm excited...I hope you are too!!

Books, Glorious Books!

I'm a bookworm, did ya know it??  Give me a good book, a snuggly place to sit, and a mug of hot chocolate and I'm in heaven!  I've been known to read an entire book in a day...Jodi Piccoult can do it to me every time!  So, I thought I'd throw out some of my favorite "feel good" books so that you might enjoy them during the holidays.  Some of them are my favorite children's books, some are novels...but I promise that they will all bring a smile to your face, and a tear to your eye (a happy tear, of course!).   There's nothing like transporting yourself to another place & time on a snowy (or in my case, foggy) evening.  

This is a definite "must read".  It's about an share-cropper (a modern day slave), and his physical, emotional & spiritual journey.  He ends up in Ft. Worth (another reason I love this book!), where he meets his very own, personal angel.  It's a true story, and I promise that you will LOVE it!

It looks like a Children's book, but really...it's not.  It's a classic, and is full of Christmas truths.  This is one I can read again and again...oh wait...I have!

This one is a Children's book, but it's so sweet that I just had to include it.  The pictures are beautiful, and the story is precious.  If you're a military family, like we are, I guarantee that you won't be able to get through this one without shedding at least one tear of gratitude :)

Another great Children's book.  Can you tell I worked w/ kids for a LONG time??  If you've never read this book, you're missing out.  It's such a good story about how we, sometimes, are the best "vessels" of Christ by just being ourselves, and recognizing the blessings that we have to offer.

Such a good "feel good" book.  It's about a little girl who is searching for the mother that her heart longs for, and the wonderful women that she meets along the way.  I can't wait to see the movie, too!  

And, last but not least...this is the true story about a professor dying from Lou Gehrig's disease who shares his wisdom with his former student, the author, Mitch Albom.  It's sad, and sweet, and a wonderful tribute to a great man.

Happy Reading and, as always, I'd love to hear about some of your favorite books!