Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Book Review - The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven

One of my great passions in life is reading.  I believe everyone has a story, and am continually fascinated by the lives of others.  When I read the title, The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven, my interest was immediately piqued.  What do you mean came back from Heaven?  I thought that one thing was for sure; Heaven wasn't a place from which you could return.

Keri Jo Raz and the wonderful people at D.C. Jacobson & Associates were kind enough to send me a copy of the book, because I felt that it might be something that readers of my blog would be interested in.  I am so excited to share my impressions of the story of Kevin and Alex Malarkey, as each page was more astounding and more moving.

The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven is the story of Alex Malarkey, a young boy who was the victim of a horrific car accident alongside his father, Kevin.  Although such an accident is every parent's worst nightmare, the account takes a very surprising turn.  Instead of being a story of grief and despair, Alex is a miracle with a Faith that would rival most adults (including that of his parents!).

Alex is a Crusader for the message of God, and has changed countless lives through his strength and his story.  With people worldwide saying prayers for Alex, he came out of a two-month coma, and slowly told of his journey to Heaven and back.

Come On, you say.  Nice story, but get real.  Even this was addressed within the book.  I truly appreciated how Alex's father Kevin admitted to struggling to understand what his son saw and experienced.  But read Alex's words, and see the pictures of his quest for survival, and you won't be questioning him for long.  


When I first opened my copy of The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven, I anticipated feeling very sorry for Alex and his family.  When I turned the last page, I felt challenged to examine my own Faith and beliefs.  I felt thankful that Alex did return from Heaven to share some spiritual insights and inspire us.

See for yourself.  Meet Alex and Kevin.  Hear other's impressions of Alex's story.  This book embodies the Reason for the Season.

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Monday, November 29, 2010

Little Cabin In the Woods


 Good friendships are such a blessing, and traveling with new friends is such fun.  There is something so peaceful and reviving about being in Nature.  This little "home away from home" was our retreat for the weekend!

Very rarely there is power in procrastination, but for once it paid off.  Due entirely to my indecision, we booked this cabin days before our departure, and it ended up being such an affordable weekend. Bonus!



Once of the things I love most about living near Atlanta is that you get four complete Seasons, but don't have to deal with many extremes.  (I guess I've already forgotten how hot I was this Summer).

These Fall leaves were so beautiful.  Even better was the way that they reflected in the perfectly still Lake.

As the last of the leaves begin to fall and the colder weather sets in, I look forward to the fun things that Winter has to offer.  My mind wanders to thoughts of hot cocoa, fuzzy warm jackets, pretty scarves, little red noses, evergreen trees, and time spent inside enjoying family and friends.  

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Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Clipboard Cuteness!

I am truly impressed with the creativity and craftiness of the writers of the blog, How Does She?  Their collaborative efforts have lead to great decorating ideas, awesome giveaways, and even free printables!

In an effort to nurture my creative spirit and my bank account, I recently created cute clipboards using their tutorial for birthday presents.  What child doesn't like to doodle and draw?  I also thought these would be perfect for a car or restaurant.
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Tuesday, November 9, 2010

How will the children learn?

Being in the trenches of teaching does not often allow you much time to examine what politicians are considering for the future of our profession.  Every once in a while, though, a movement is so well publicized it catches the attention of many, and renews the passion amongst teachers about the quality of education in the United States.
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Monday, November 8, 2010

Thinking Back


Question.  Has anyone seen October?  The date on my computer this morning says something about November, but there were 31 days of one of my favorite months that have come and gone in the blink of an eye.  
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