What I am . . .

READING

I am currently reading the latest book from Francine Rivers "Her Mothers Hope" - this is the first of two books (2nd due out later this year).  It examines families, relationships between mothers and daughters (or lack of relationship that almost tears them apart), struggles of making a new life in a new country (testing their faith constantly), and the impact of 2 wars on this German/Swiss family.  It is a lite read, but the sort that keeps me picking it up and reading more. 

I particularly enjoyed reading "Redeeming Love" also written by Rivers.  This is a sad story.

 I read a little each night of Ruth Graham's "Fear Not Tomorrow, God is Already There: Trusting Him in Uncertain Times".  It has been a very rewarding book and I have got a lot out of it.  The book looks at issues that we face each day, some more daunting than others, the fears of what tomorrow may bring and the times we think we have to battle on our own as we think that God has deserted us, forgotten us. busy with others as we aren't worthy of His time  Graham talks about learning to trust God, something most of us are not good at or get inpatient wanting answers NOW!

 

My next book on "my to read list" is completely different to Francine Rivers.  I will be reading "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel.  A novel that tells the story of Sir Thomas Cromwell, during the times of Henry VIII.  It is a novel so it will be interesting to see how accurate it is to the history books. Cromwell was quite the forward thinker in what was turbulent times so it should make for a good read.  It was recommended to me by a colleague and I noticed it has received very good reviews.

 

WATCHING:

I have finally got to see Mao's Last Dancer on DVD and loved it.  I thought the book was excellent and have recommended it to a number of people, sadly movies cannot show all aspects of a book, one being the huge struggles the Cunxin family endured throughout the Cultural Revolution - eating turnips all winter and freezing!  The movie did add a few extras that were not in the book, but I can live with that.  I love ballet - and this film had lots of it in.  For those who may not know Li Cunxin now lives in Australia with his wife (Mary) and their children.

QUOTE

There's something in a simple hug that always warms the heart.
A hug's a way to share the joy,
 and the sad times we go through,
 or just a way for friends to say they like you because you're you.
It's funny how a little hug makes everyone feel good;
in every place and language.
And hugs don't need new equipment,
special batteries or parts
--just open up your arms and open up your heart.
~Unknown~

FUNNY PHOTO

Helping with the shopping.

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PS Yes, I am at home today - my nose is still mis-behaving and my head is wollie.  I should be OK by tomorrow.  I am rugged up as it is cold and windy outside (but sunny), I have even had to turn on the central heating on as my hands were getting very cold.   Thankyou for your thoughts and garlic recipe (yet to try it!!!)

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Where is Ruby!?!?

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