CLOSING TIME

This is the post that I've written so many times in my head over the past few months.  I have blogged off and on here for the past 13 years!!  My life has changed so much since then.  I've learned that often time beginnings are scary and endings are sad.  But so far I have survived every single one of them!!  There is so much uncertainty these days. And there are SO MANY THINGS I have ZERO control over.  I have learned there are basically two things I can control: 1. MY attitude and 2. MY effort.  And so this is what I have decided to focus on.  I can choose to be positive no matter what my surroundings look like, and I can choose to work hard no matter what life deals me!  If you know anything about me, you know I love music.  I love listening and finding new songs.  I love sharing songs with my people.  And I love love love good lyrics!  Many things that I quote often come from song lyrics. 

Good vibes.  Open up the champagne...pop. Ain't nothing gonna break my stride.  Life is short and love is rare....we all deserve to be happy while we're here.  The house don't fall when the bones are good.  Breathe in...breathe out...move on.  What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.  Nothing's gonna stop us.  Always be sure to count your blessings. Everything's gonna be alright. There's a song for everything (and yes that is a song lyric)!!!!  Maybe I need to start a new blog all about songs I love...or maybe not. 

I think the point I'm trying to make is that it's time for me to hang up my blogging hat.  There are so many other social media platforms that take up enough of my time, and blogging is not one of the ones I am passionate about anymore.  So if you need to get your "Denise fix", you are welcome to stalk find me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Snapchat!!

So to quote the song Closing Time..... "you don't have to go home, but you can't stay here".....
Denise out!

The Struggle is Real FOR SURE!!!!!

Sometimes I feel like every minute of my life is a struggle.  Then life gets a little "better" and it's smooth sailing for a quick minute.  Then I'm back driving the struggle bus through the ruts of life.  This seems to be a common theme in my life and in the lives of those around me.  Friends, family, coworkers, even my cashier at the Walmart all have struggles.  The Struggle is Real.....just like the book title says!!!

Nicole Unice is a new-to-me author although she has written a few other books.  Her new book is a great read for anyone who struggles with little or big things in life...so basically this book is for EVERYONE!!!

• My tolerance for idiots is completely low today.  I used to have some immunity built up, but obviously there's a new strain out!!
• No, I don't really rise and shine.  Most days, I just caffeinate and hope for the best....
• I want buns of steel, but I also want cinnamon buns!!

These are just a few things Nicole struggles with first thing in the morning.  And I can totally relate :)  If you are looking for a great book that is relatable in several areas of your life, I totally recommend reading this!!

*I was provided this book in exchange for my review.  Opinions are mine.*

Once Upon A Farm

Wow.  Just wow.  I love this book so much.  I have seen Rory and Joey in person at a Zac Brown concert.  A few years later I learned about her illness.  She has Indiana roots, so there were stories about her life in the local news.  Their daughter Indy is so precious, and I've enjoyed seeing updates on Instagram when Rory will post a picture or story.  Lots of good stuff! His new book has lots of stories about the past and present.  Things he has lived through and the lessons he has learned or lessons he is till trying to learn.  One thing I've learned that is that things are always changing.  Surprises, good or bad, are just one breath away.

"Ain't that how life is?  It's never really easy.  It takes twists and turns and goes in directions you don't want it to go.  You're hoping for smooth sailing today, and the wind suddenly kicks up and spins your boat around in a completely different direction.  And all you can so is hang on and try not to capsize.

It used to disappoint me that life couldn't be simpler.  But I've learned to embrace it.  To do more than embrace it.  To love that life is that way.  That the crazy ride is what life actually is, when it is at its best."

*I was gifted this book in exchange for my review.  Opinions are mine.  Thanks to BookLook Blogger!

WHERE HOPE BEGINS

It's Summer Reading Club time at my local library, so I'm trying my best to read lots of books.  I was excited to read this book by new-to-me author, Catherine West.  This is a book about marriage, infidelity, divorce, suicide, death, and lots of other topics!  There is definitely a fairy-tale happy ending.  Which if that's your style, you'll really enjoy this book.  Sometimes fairy-tale endings don't happen in real life, but reading a book like this can be a good escape.

"For all our efforts, somehow we sensed the task was beyond us.  The real gift was the challenge of our faith.  The challenge to see past the improbable likelihood of anything growing in here again.  To push aside what the world would deem impossible and hold out for a miracle."  This is one of my favorite quotes from the book.  The main character is definitely holding out for a miracle, and although it isn't the answer she was hoping for, it's the best answer for her life.  Everyone wants the best answer in their own life!

*I received this book in exchange for my review.  Opinions are mine.*

Things I Never Told You

I am so excited to share this new-to-me author.  After living in Colorado for five years, I still have strong feelings for that state.  This book is set in Colorado and many places she mentions are still familiar to me!

I am also a mom of boys at this stage in my life.  And reading a book about a family of girls definitely gives me a different perspective.  I love my boys, but sometimes I need an escape from the craziness.  So reading about a family with multiple girls is just that!  We are introduced to several sisters and learn about their past, their pain, a cancer scare, and all the family drama that ensues.  There is also lots of talk about volleyball, so if you're a sports family, you can totally relate to this aspect of life.  I will definitely look forward to the next book in this series and see how life is going for these girls!!

HOW TO BE MARRIED

Mawage. Mawage is wot bwings us togeder tooday. Mawage, that bwessed awangment, that dweam wifin a dweam… And wuv, tru wuv, will fowow you foweva… So tweasure your wuv.  ~Quote from The Princess Bride
If you are looking for some encouraging words about marriage, might I recommend the book How To Be Married to you!  I'm always looking for good stories, lessons, and just downright good advice, yet often don't know where to turn.  A book as good as this need to be passed on to your friend, neighbor, or co-worker who can also glean good relationship information.  This would also make a great addition to a wedding shower gift!  Something any newlywed can relate to is awesome!  After reading this book, you'll remember all the good, bad, and ugly things that brought you to the exact place you are today...and hopefully married....happily ever after....  Love.  True Love.

MAY THE FAITH BE WITH YOU

I love to read.  Reading is my passion.  And I really don't understand when people say they don't like to read or don't have time to read.  What the what?!?  Now I'm going to be completely honest here and tell everyone that I have three boys who hate to read.  Yes it's true.  And yes it makes my heart just a little sad.  But I'll get over it.

That being said, anytime I can find a "boy" book that is not cheesy or tacky, I will literally snatch it up in hopes that one of my boys will at least glance at it.  The new NIRV bible May The Faith Be With You is a perfect example of this.  Geared to the Star Wars fan (my boys for sure!) this would be a great Bible for lots of people I know.  I really don't think it is age dependent, because I know lots of adult Star Wars fans.  My boys are 12 and 16, and we have enjoyed reading Bible stories.  There are also sections throughout that are relevant to them today.  We definitely have enjoyed this New International Reader's Version together!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my review.  Opinions are mine.*