by Summer D Clemenson | Oct 17, 2024 | Opinions, Politics
Dear conservative christians: You can’t possibly understand my position on abortion. You are so stuck on an idea. My position is based on free will, which is based on what God created because God wants to be chosen. God also understands each of us better than rules and ideas. God knows that there are circumstances where humans find ourselves in desperate situations and grace is necessary. I believe that God is with all His creation and especially with babies that are aborted.
I have never had an abortion and I don’t think I would ever have been in a situation where I would have had one, because I have a relationship with God and I know He would have carried me through the worst scenario I can imagine, I can’t test that because I have never been pregnant. I don’t believe I could have become pregnant which is a huge burden to me, since being a mother, is the one thing I have wanted most. But I don’t believe I have the right to judge anyone or stop them from having a safe procedure that might allow them to have a safe pregnancy when they are ready.
I believe many christians are not truly pro-life but pro-birth. I believe this because my mother worked hard but could never afford health insurance. Healthy parents raise healthy children and work harder and pay more taxes. Our foster care system is overwhelmed with children, and yet, pro-birth christians have empty rooms in their homes.
My words are hard to hear because many conservative christians don’t want to consider themselves to be Pharisees, but when ideas and rules are bigger than love and relationship, that is exactly what you become. Jesus came to teach us that love, forgiveness, grace and mercy is bigger than the rules we can’t follow because they cause death. The bible is an important tool but it must be read continuously along with prayer and relationship with God and not relying on the teaching of humans. Humans like to rely on rules because it is safe and comfortable. Rules can be helpful but relationship with God, who knows us best, is where real growth and compassion comes in. There is corruption that has been sewn into the bible too because humans have edited the bible over the years to benefit their agendas. This is why relationship with God and honest prayer is vital to bible study.
There is no room in heaven for Pharisees. Conservative christians need to know that is in the bible too. Your rules cannot be bigger than your love and mercy. The rules in the bible were meant to teach us how to have self control, so we would have less stress. The rules were not meant for us to impose on other people.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Oct 7, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Fuel Your Wellness
This article was originally posted on WellnessWorksNW.com on 9/23/2024.
In June I was inspired to join a week long group called Weakless Week hosted by Jason Seib. During this week where Seib inspired the group to get comfortable with being uncomfortable in order to give up junk food for good and commit to exercise forever because that is how we love ourself, he mentioned this self help book, Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph. D. He felt that this book would help us understand the value of knowing the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset and teaching us to work towards living with a growth mindset.
A Fixed or Growth Mindset can be seen in Business Leadership, Home, in Parenting and in Personal Relationships.
A fixed mindset is a belief that your qualities (talents, aptitudes, interests, temperament, morals) are set in stone and can’t be changed. People with fixed mindsets are usually wrong about their abilities because they don’t know what they are capable of.
A growth mindset is a belief that our basic qualities (intelligence, personality, character) are things we can cultivate through our efforts, strategies and help from others. People that are growth oriented are open to learning, they believe they can develop themselves. Growth mindset seeks challenge and they tend to thrive even in failure.
In learning, failure, to a fixed mindset person can be a traumatic setback, but for a growth mindset person it can be a perfect opportunity to grow and become better at productivity. The belief is that are not a failure as long as you are learning from your mistakes and taking ownership. If you are blaming someone else the process of learning is over. Blaming is a trait of a fixed mindset learner.
Fixed mindset people with depression tend to shut down because when you measure yourself by failure you lose coping resources.
Growth mindset people with depression tend to try harder and be determined to keep going as well a they can because they believe their abilities can be expanded.
In their opinion, a fixed mindset person doesn’t need to ask for help because losing is not an option. They can’t handle losing. Asking for help is a sign of weakness. The idea of deficiencies is terrifying to them. A fixed mindset person relies on natural talent and they believe they don’t need to overcome challenges. Fixed mindset is ego driven and believes you are either somebody or nobody.
Talent is needed to get you to the top but character is needed to keep you there.
Growth Mindset Beliefs:
- overcoming shortfalls is exciting
- practice makes perfect
- using your personal strengths to overcome shortfalls is key
- ordinary people can do extraordinary things with the right amount of effort and training
- can talk themselves from losing to winning based on their past strengths
- focuses on self-development, self-motivation and responsibility
Fixed Mindset in love
- The ideal is instant, perfect and perpetual compatibility
- Couples will agree on everything
- Problems indicate character flaws that can’t be fixed
- After rejection feels judged, bitter and vengeful
Growth Mindset in Love
- All things can be developed
- Communication happens, nothing is assumed
- Problems can possibly be fixed
- After rejection feels hurt, hopeful, forgiving, learning and moves on
Parenting
In parenting with a fixed versus growth mindset is important to consider situations and expectations. With children complimenting intelligence or speed might stunt their willingness to try hard things. Not being honest with constructive criticism might lead to wrongful blame. Encouraging hard work in weak areas and acknowledging hard work already done will build confidence.
Remember learning is a process. Don’t judge. Teach.
Success can knock you into a fixed mindset that tells you that you won because you have talent – not that you have to fight every time to win. Parents that respond to mistakes as opportunities to learn, pass on a growth mindset.
The Journey from fixed to growth mindset
- Embrace that we all have some fixed mindset traits.
- Become aware of triggers (Mine is competition)
- Give your fixed mindset personality a name (Mine is Stormie)
- Educate your fixed mindset. Be supportive of its roll but let it know we are going to try this anyway and communicate as well as we can with those around us.
- Daily consider growth opportunities for myself and for others around me.
Fixed mindset people often have an internal monologue that is focused on judging. Where a growth mindset person is often thinking about what they can learning from an experience, how can they improve, how can I help my partner do this better?
Life is about the journey. Some days we do better than others and that is ok but keep moving forward. Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph. D was a very helpful book to read and I got a lot out of it that I can relate to many parts of my life. I think it is a good nonfiction book for anyone to read that wants to sharpen their personal development skills.
I got this book from my personal collection you can get your own copy of Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph. D on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck My rating: 4 of 5 stars Mindset is often the reason we are successful and in Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph. D, Dweck talks about the difference between fixed and growth mindsets and how they make a difference in the outcomes of our lives. A Fixed Mindset is the belief that our talents, aptitudes, interests, temperament, morals are set and can’t be changed. A Growth Mindset is the belief that our intelligence, personality, character can be developed through education and practice. Most people have a mixture of both types of mindsets throughout their life but the book illustrates that the Growth Mindset is the goal as it has the greater room for possibility. View all my reviews
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I hope this article helps Fuel Your Wellness. Please leave your comments below.
Summer D Clemenson is a co-owner Clemenson Enterprises, LLC and Wellness Works NW. Summer her wife, Karen G Clemenson’s personal motto is Creativity, Honesty & Positivity are a must! This mantra helps them stay community and wellness minded in all they do. Summer is an Independent Wellness Advocate at dōTERRA. Summer also writes poetry and inspirational blogs @ GoodTimesAlways.com.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 20, 2024 | Poetry
I had my team even though I didn’t want them
I wasn’t properly trained
But my uniform was always properly attired
Three yellow chevron on blue was always attractive
and polished
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An invisible sergeant
I was never given a horse
even though my specialty was cavalry
It is impossible to lead or train
When no one can see you
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Supervision, guidance, support I gave
for which I was never paid
Or rather I paid very dearly
They knew my value
but I didn’t
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I saw myself
This old self yesterday
and I understood another part of me
I thanked myself for my service
and let myself retire with honors
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by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 19, 2024 | About Summer, Opinions
I was a dad’s girl. I tried to call my father daddy once and we both gave each other a look. We both knew he wasn’t a daddy. It wasn’t that he didn’t love me. I knew he loved me. It was just that neither of us was overly cuddly. We were more logical. I was in grade school and there were girls that called their dads by that name and I was trying it out. It was not natural. I didn’t do it again.
If Dad was available I would be by his side. I am sure I tried his patience a lot, but I did learn to work because that was what my dad liked to do. We worked in the yard. We worked on the cars and on the bikes. We built a shed. We worked in the garden. I wasn’t allowed to prune the trees or anything dangerous but I liked being with my dad. He thought more like me. Most of my questions didn’t overwhelm him. He was usually the most stable parent. If he got upset, there was always a reason; you knew to obey him and never do certain things.
My mom was different. Her mental illness made her different. I never really knew which mom I was going to run into. She was very emotional. She wanted a daughter that wanted to be coddled and I wasn’t that way. She had an easier time with my younger siblings.
My life seemed perfect until I was 5 years old. There is a definite line in my life that started there. My great-grandmother died. I called her Grammy. She was my favorite person. Jesus introduced Himself to me when I was playing under the apple trees in the backyard. I was by myself so there aren’t any witnesses but I will never forget that day and how I never really felt alone again. I also think that was the year that my parent’s marriage really began to fall apart.
My dad left when I was 9 years old. He had made promises to me about when I became a woman. He said he would still be there for me. But he lied.
He lied a lot.
He not only lied but he left me holding the bag. I now had all his responsibilities. He really did expect me to take care of my siblings and the house. He expected me to be happy when I came to visit him even though he emotionally abused me the entire car ride to his place where I had to be respectful of his girlfriend and eventual wife. I hated her. I am positive it was mutual.
Not one promise my father made to me, growing up, ever came true.
I tried to make friends with his wife, when I was a young adult, but she didn’t want that. It didn’t fit in with what she wanted. I was supposed to be the scapegoat.
In my young 20’s, I was in therapy and trying to become whole. It was hard because I didn’t know how to leave the abuse that we were all used to. But when I got married, I left and I finally had someone that asked me to not let them hurt me anymore. After several therapists had suggested I leave them behind, I told them I needed a break. It was supposed to be a break.
But my siblings cut me off. They tallied up anything they ever hated about me and rallied against me and anytime I tried to talk to my father he would tell me about them. I was so confused. He had always said that when we were adults, his job was done. If that was true than these things were none of his business. Why was he talking to me about things they should be talking to me about, but weren’t? Why was he yelling me about this? Why was I being abused still?
When I got cancer I didn’t want my parents to hear it from anyone but me. I felt like I should respect them at least that much. I had told my friends first but that had been in a text. I hadn’t actually said it out loud yet. I had heard it at the doctor’s office with my wife and texted my friends. This was a mistake. I called my mom first but she didn’t answer. So Dad got the message first and I broke down. While I was crying he was telling me about the problems with my damn siblings and their adult kids again. What the hell!
The call ended up with me calling my father a son of a bitch. A few weeks later I sent him a letter asking for forgiveness for my response to him. I don’t believe he deserves to be spoken to like that. But I also see how he brings out the worst in me. I told him I had to be done. I told him I didn’t want to be his daughter anymore. I didn’t want anything from him ever again. I loved him and I pray for him but I had to be done.
I know he didn’t understand this letter. I know he didn’t understand the level of pain I was in to make these statements; that after years of begging for respect and love and better communication, I was removing myself from his flock. Even though I see myself as the most like him and I understand why he does what he does, I have to protect myself. I have forgiven him but I had to leave.
His wife expects me to come back because she usually gets what she wants. She has written to me in his name. I know my father knows me. He knows when I say I am done that I really mean it. I know it was her that wrote the letter that I received the week after my grandpa died, knowing I would be hurting. She really expected me to want reconciliation and she really expected me to apologize but I don’t have anything to apologize for. I am not sorry.
I have repented to God for the pain that my healing has caused. I know that my telling my stories has caused pain because my growth and honesty hurts my fixed mindset extended family members that need to keep their secrets. It is healthy and necessary for me to tell my stories and I also know that there are people that read my stories and they are empowered by them and I want them to be. I am not so special that my stories can’t help someone just as they help me to heal.
I have been told that because I tell my stories I have betrayed my extended family members. That is the trouble with family abuse and traumas that are never dealt with until someone says; here and no further. Because my family has refused to get help with their traumas, which are there. Because they are there, they have perpetuated a system of pain. They could be proud of me. They could see that I am brave and honest. They could see that I have learned a lot of positive tools to deal with the things my brain and body lie to me about and they could join me in getting well. They have not chosen to change. They have that right.
There is a difference between forgiveness and repentance. When we repent we recognize we have made an error and we try our hardest to never do it again. I know this is next to impossible from my fixed mindset family. But it is not impossible for God to do anything. If God wants reconciliation He will make it happen. He knows what I need and what we all need. I trust Him.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 17, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I believe that Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is one of the saddest stories I have ever read. The first time I ever heard about this book, I was reading The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams. This classic fiction novel was on the reading list in this book; since then I have also seen it on a couple more literary must read lists, so I purchased it and made sure to read it. I don’t believe the book mentions any dates for reference, but it must take place around the time it was written, 1938. I suspect this because people had cars but no TVs in their homes, women were educated but men still did most of the talking.
“I believe there is a theory that men and women emerge finer and stronger after suffering, and that to advance in this or any world, we must endure ordeal by fire.” Chapter 2
Rebecca was the name of the first wife of Mr. de Winter. Although Rebecca is dead, she is still the main character throughout this mystery. Although the narrator and secondary character is the second Mrs. de Winter and we never hear her first name throughout this entire romance thriller.
Rebecca is an intense book. It is well written. I was compelled to continue reading it. There was growth in the characters, especial the second Mrs. de Winter, but it was a stressful story. I am not in love with the ending. It doesn’t feel finished.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I related a lot to the narrator of this book. As a young woman I was very shy and not able to communicate or feel capable of knowing how to make myself known. The second Mrs. de Winter was a very young lady when she married her much older husband and she had no idea the history of the family she was marrying into or even the history of her husband. She had a lot of learning and growing to do and she was forced to do it or lose him. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is a complicated and sad story of mystery and manipulation.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 12, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
In all the world we will never find a love like what we receive from God. I knew that before I read The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning because in all the world I have only met a few people that even came close to God’s ability to accept me and know me and love me even partially as well as He loves me. This book celebrates this truth and encourages us to reach out to our broken, imperfect neighbors and love each other anyway because it is what God does. We are all given the opportunity to be un-entitled beggars able to receive God’s mercy.
“My deepest awareness of myself is that I am deeply loved by Jesus Christ and I have done nothing to earn it or deserve it.” Brennan Manning
When we accept our humanity, we declare our freedom from hunger for power or acceptance from others because we are more secure in ourself. We no longer fear criticism, because we accept our limitations. When we trust in God, who loves us consistently and faithfully nurtures us to be free disciples we are able to foster other loving people.
Jesus hung out with ragamuffins. In Jewish culture, to share a meal is to declare friendship. In bible times, sinners (ragamuffins) were outcasts and it was illegal to mix with them so Jesus was breaking the law and breaking the structure of Jewish society. Jesus was the first to treat ragamuffins with dignity and show them they were acceptable to God. :
- the poor
- the lepers
- the blind
- the hungry
- the lame
- sinners
- prostitutes
- tax collectors
- the persecuted
- the downtrodden
- the captives
- those possessed with unclean spirits
- all who labor
- all who are heavy burdened
- the people that didn’t know the law
- the crowds
- the little ones
- the least
- the last
- the lost sheep of the house of Isreal
Imposters in the Spirit always prefer appearance to reality: Self deception sells our sinfulness and prevents us from seeing that we are all ragamuffins. The self-righteous place their trust in the works of the law and closed their hearts to the gift and message of grace.
The poor is spirit (Matthew 5:3) are all those who rely entirely on the mercy of God and accept the gospel of grace. The poor in spirit are like children. Children are unselfish and incapable of pretense — they just accept the gift of the kingdom of God in faith. But we are called to be like children. Children had no worth in the bible times. So to be like a child is a big call. Christians must be willing to be totally humbled to accept oneself as unimportant and of little account. If we maintain that open-mindedness of children, we challenge fixed ideas of established structures — even our own. An open-mind believer realizes that in reality, truth and Jesus Christ are incredibly open-ended.
“Honesty is such a precious commodity that its seldom found in the world or the church. Honesty requires the truthfulness to admit the attachment and addictions that control our attention, dominate our consciousness, and function as false gods.” Brennan Manning
Repentance is not just what we do for forgiveness — it is an expression of gratitude because forgiveness can’t be earned. Once forgiven, our past is irrelevant before God. God is in the now — in the present. God is not our enemy. He is not intent on trying, tempting or testing us. He does not promote suffering and pain. Jesus teaches us that a relationship with God drives out fear, mistrust, anxiety and guilt. A true relationship is hopeful, joyous, trusting and compassionate. Human love is a faint shadow of God’s love because of it’s passion and emotion — it is a thin echo of the love of God. Authentic Christianity leads us to treat others with love and communion. It should lead the Christian to maturity, personality and reality, and reverence for the mystery of humanity in spirituality.
Jesus told us not to fear because fear was useless. He told us to trust and have joy and share this with others.
Some Christians want to be slaves. It is easier to let others make the decisions or rely on the law than to be truly honest with God and accept our limitations in religion and the gift of grace.
At this end of this book are 19 inspirational bible studies. I wish that I had been doing them while I read the book. Since I think this is a book that is to be read again and I again, I will keep this in mind when I read it next time. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to grow in their relationship with Christ and their understanding of theology.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have tried to read this book for over 20 years. In fact this is not the first copy of this book I have bought. Now was the time for this book and I am glad I finally read it because over the years, in my personal study of the bible, I have come to find that my beliefs, which seem to be different that what I was taught growing up, are exactly what are in this book. I am thankful that I can never earn the mercy and forgiveness I have got from God. I love that God is so in love with me that I can learn that kind of love from Him. That I can even try to share that kind of love with others. I know that my version of love is just a shadow of His, but I am glad to be free from the law and to live in His grace. This book is such a gift.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 30, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Rosa Parks was an amazing woman and what is special about this biography put out by the Library of Congress is that it is full of pictures of her memorabilia and writings. She was an avid writer and notetaker and would write on anything she had on hand. I find this fascinating because I do this too.
Rosa Parks was active in helping people well before the day she chose to not get off the bus. She also:
- Educated voters
- Supported activists
- Campaigned for political candidates
- Fought segregation
- Sought justice for victims of sexual assault, abduction and gang rape
Rosa Parks lived for freedom not just for herself but for others. She wanted all people to be treated well.
“I would rather be lynched than live to be mistreated.” Rosa Parks
Many people had been abused as they protested bus segregation before Rosa Parks. Her actions were not planned but there was a lot to fuel the fire of history. Rose had just reached her tipping point on that day.
- Brown v. Board of Education which said that segregation of schools was unconstitutional
- Claudette Colvin, a 15-year-old girl had been roughed up and dragged off a Montgomery bus for not giving up her seat to a white person
- Emmitt Till, a 14-year-old boy has been murdered by the KKK for a comment no one heard him make
Because of Parks’ calm demeanor and good reputation the president of the NAACP chose her to be the face of resistance. Many things happened that were a help to the civil rights movement because Rosa Parks chose to stay seated one day on the bus. On June 6, 1956 Browder v. Gayle stated that bus segregation was unconstitutional. Civil rights leaders were expecting pushback from Alabama and they got it. Alabama appealed on November 13, 1965 but the lower court upheld the ruling. Alabama appealed a second time but it was denied and Federal Marshalls handed Mayer Gayle official notice on December 20, 1956.
“I want to be remembered as a person who wanted to be free and wanted others to be free.” Rosa Parks
This is the first nonfiction book that I have read about Rosa Parks but she also wrote books about her life and I intend to read those too:
- Quiet Strength
- My Story
- Dear Mrs. Parks: A Dialogue with Today’s Youth
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Rosa Parks In Her Own Words by Susan Reyburn on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Rosa Parks: In Her Own Words by Susan Reyburn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rosa Parks was a humble and great woman. She worked hard to serve others for the betterment of the civil rights movement because she wanted to be remembered as a person that wanted to be free and wanted others to be free. She was not wealthy and did not ask for riches for anything she ever did but she has gone down in history has an amazing force for good. This book, put out by the Library of Congress is full of notes and personal memorabilia that she kept while on her journey towards freedom for us all.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 29, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I can’t believe that summer break is over and school has begun again. Summertime flew by. It seems to go faster every year. I hope you got your reading in. I read 24 books over the summer. I think that is pretty good for me, considering only 9 of them were adult books. I love to read. If you have any books you would like me to review just let me know! Now for the 5 Books for August 2024:
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Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Johnson
Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love Harold and I love his adventures. Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Johnson is a sweet and classic children’s fiction story that takes you along with Harold and his purple crayon as he attempts to visit the moon, but misses and lands on Mars instead. Don’t worry, in this space fantasy Harold still makes it home in time for breakfast. I love how Harold talks about what people are afraid of and he bravely faces them with his art. I think this is my favorite Harold and the Purple Crayon picture book.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Jonhson on Amazon.
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Make Way for the Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I remember having Make Way for the Ducklings by Robert McCloskey on my bookshelf when I was a child. I had an aunt and uncle who lived in Boston, where this fiction story takes place and they had sent the book to us. I don’t remember the story though. It made reading this children’s classic, like new today and I am glad I have this book to share with my great niece and nephews. I love how this bird family, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard looked for the perfect place, free from foxes, turtles and other animals, bicycles and other things with wheels to raise their ducklings. I also love how when the ducks were ready for their first adventure, the police were ready to make way for the ducklings. This is a perfect family picture book.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Make Way for the Duckling by Robert McCloskey on Amazon.
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Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy
Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy is an adorable bear adventure just like the fiction animal adventures had by the character created by Don Freeman. It is great to see Corduroy continue on with new artists! In this children’s classic story, Corduroy finds out that Lisa’s birthday is coming and he wants to find the perfect gift for her. But on the way he gets lost. With the help of new friends, Lisa finds him, which is she really wanted all along. This precious family story is the perfect addition to story time. The illustrations by Jody Wheeler really bring this fantasy picture book to life.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G.Hennessy on Amazon.
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Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Jim Panzee woke up in a bad mood but he doesn’t know it, but luckily all his animal friends in the jungle are there for him and help him understand his feelings. It’s ok to feel what your feel, even if its s a beautiful day. Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang is a wonderful children’s fiction book that examines emotions with the use of humor. The illustrations by Max Lang are fun and inviting to any story time.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang on Amazon.
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Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray
Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble At the Yard Sale by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Surprisingly, Walter’s family brought him to the yard sale and wondered why no one came to their yard sale, not even other animals. If you know about Walter, you know he is a dog with terrible, smelly gas. Walter probably should have stayed inside for the day but where is the humor in that? Walter’s amazing farting was so powerful, he only caught the attention of a wannabe bank robber with extra stinky crime on his mind, in Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray. I was shocked that Father was willing to part with Walter for only $10 but in the end, Walter made his way home and saved the day. The fun illustrations by Audrey Colman really make this children’s fiction picture book extra fun!
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray on Amazon.
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You learn such amazing things when you read. Sometimes you just learn about yourself and what you like. Reading is one of the best things I ever learned. I hope you make time to read.
Be blessed.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 14, 2024 | Poetry
He is natural in chaos
I used to be but now I make different choices
with all these emotions
He commands the world
regardless of the blood on his face
and I wish the screaming
in my head hadn’t begun
when I saw the gunfire
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The boy who shot him
had hardly lived
and now he is is dead
Is he paying for crimes
besides his own
Is he collateral damage
much like the bystanders
that felt the impact of his bullets
The father that died
The others that will live
but will never be the same
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He is the epitome of every bully
I’ve ever known
It was clear when his lips
were red with his blood
I know him
I was terrified of him
How can they not see who he is
But I see him
And I am no longer afraid
He is just another man
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by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 12, 2024 | Fuel Your Wellness
Methotrexate is an oral medication, available in a solution or a in a tablet, used to treat several illnesses. I take methotrexate to address Psoriatic Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. I believe I began taking methotrexate in 2015. I also take folic acid to avoid side effects from this drug. Methotrexate belongs to a group of medicines called antineoplastics that interfere with the growth of cancer cells it also used in treatments as an immunosuppressant for auto immune diseases. Methotrexate is often the first drug that doctors try with people with arthritis (in much smaller amounts than for treating cancer) to slow down the damage from inflammation in the joints. I am lucky. This drug works for me and I haven’t had to move on to other medications with more side effects. Many people can’t take this drug.
Methotrexate is used to treat the following medical conditions:
- Cancer: breast, head, head and neck, lung, blood (acute lymphoblastic leukemia or all), bone, lymph node (mycosis fungoides, relapses or refractory non-Hodgkins lymphoma) or uterus cancer
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Severe Psoriasis
- Lupus
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
- Vasculitis
- Eczema
“Methotrexate is one of the most effective and widely used medications for treating inflammatory types of arthritis, It’s also the safest arthritis drugs, despite a common misconception among many patients that methotrexate is highly toxic.” Arthritis Foundation.
Methotrexate is not recommended for use for children, or women that are breastfeeding, as it is harmful to infants. Also it is recommended that when having specific vaccinations or medical procedures that your doctor will ask you to pause your dose of Methotrexate for a time being as Methotrexate might cause an unwelcome reaction between the vaccine or slow down the healing process after your procedure. It is important to let your doctors know you are taking Methotrexate because how you take other medications or if you can take other medications, including NSAIDS and PPIs, will be affected.
It is not recommended that you drink soda, alcohol or smoke cigarettes while you take Methotrexate. Your doctor will also need to require lab work every two months to make sure your liver and kidneys are not being negatively affected by Methotrexate. Because Methotrexate can increase the risk of liver problems, check with your doctor if you have pain in your upper stomach, pale stools, dark urine, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or yellow eyes or skin.
Make sure to follow the directions your doctor has given you on how to take your medication. If you have missed a dose, make sure to check with your medical professional until you are used to your medication and how it affects you. Effective birth control should be used while using this medication. If you think you are pregnant, make sure to contact your doctor right away.
Methotrexate may cause serious allergic reactions. Contact your doctor if you are experiencing:
- Anaphylaxis
- Rash
- Itching
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fast Heartbeat
- Trouble Breathing or Swallowing
- Chest Tightness
Methotrexate may lower your bodies resistance to infection. So you may not want to spend time with people that are knowingly sick. Also washing hands is important. Methotrexate can also make you more sensitive to the sun. Wearing a hat, eye protection and sunscreen is important. Do not use sunlamps and tanning beds.
There are tons of side effects. Make sure to read them on the link to the Mayo Clinic article listed below if you are interested.
Commonly there are some gastrointestinal issues that come with taking this medication. I have found, for me, that making sure I have a hearty breakfast before I take my weekly dose was what I needed. I already eat a diet that is anti-inflammatory and free of junk food. I don’t drink soda, juice, caffeinated beverages and alcohol and I quit smoking almost 20 years ago. I also exercise every day. All of these components help to give me a better quality of life. Many of the side effects that may come with this medication also come with other medications I take and I like not hurting. I notice when I have to miss a dose.
If you are needing help creating a Wellness Plan that works for you, please Contact Wellness Works NW at 360-447-8061. Karen G Clemenson is a very caring and authentic person and she is looking forward to talking with you and helping you define your Wellness Goals and strategies. I hope this article answered questions you had and was easy to understand. If you would like us to write about a particular topic that you can’t find on this site, please send us an email on our Dear Jamie page and someone from Our Team will be glad to research and write about your topic.
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I hope this article helps Fuel Your Wellness. Please leave your comments below.
Summer D Clemenson is a co-owner Clemenson Enterprises, LLC and Wellness Works NW. Summer her wife, Karen G Clemenson’s personal motto is Creativity, Honesty & Positivity are a must! This mantra helps them stay community and wellness minded in all they do. Summer is an Independent Wellness Advocate at dōTERRA. Summer also writes poetry and inspirational blogs @ GoodTimesAlways.com.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 8, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
“Bathsheba looked directly toward the threshing floor and the king’s store house directly behind the palace. David was giving a staggering amount to this work [the building of the temple]. But she would expect nothing less of him. He was a man devoted, consumed, in his passion for the Lord his God. A generous man who had learned the gratitude that comes of sins forgiven.”
Bathsheba was King David’s eighth wife, but he was not her first husband. She was originally the wife of Uriah the Hittite, one of the King’s Thirty most trusted captains. Uriah was loyal to the rules King David, the king of Israel, established for his soldiers during war, which included celibacy. Wars could last months and Bathsheba was often very lonely.
During the beginning of this biblical fiction book, King David’s favorite wife, Abigail, died after giving birth to their third child and King David was very distraught. He stayed behind from a battle and eventually met Bathsheba on her roof. They were both attracted to each other, but they stayed away from each other, knowing they were married.
Still depressed, King David, stayed back from another war. His wives quarrels had become too much for him, Abigail had often been the peacekeeper. King David and Bathsheba kept bumping into each other until one night he sent for her.
In all the four years Bathsheba was married to Uriah, she had never conceived. Bathsheba had grown accustomed to the idea that she was barren. However one evening with the king brought forth a child. When Bathsheba told the king, he called Uriah home from war and suggested that he go home to his wife. After two nights, Uriah stayed faithful to his men at war and slept at the castle’s front gate with the guards. He did not want to fail his men.
Knowing that by the time Uriah returned from war, the pregnancy could not be covered up and the consequences for adultery was death, King David ordered Uriah the Hittite to the front line, where certain death came. After the allotted time of grieving, King David took Bathsheba as his bride.
The birth of David and Bathsheba’s first son brought the attention of Nathan the profit with a message from God. The truth was revealed and David repented. God forgave David and Bathsheba but He took their first son. God also said that sword would never leave his house, while he was alive.
Years later, after David and Bathsheba had know the forgiveness of God for their forbidden romance and raised their 4 sons, King David announced his son Solomon as his successor. He had never know war and was the one to bring peace to Israel. King Solomon would go down in history as being able to do things that King David would never have been able to do.
Bathsheba by Jill Eileen Smith is #3 in a three part historical fiction series of the Wives of King David: Michal, Abigail and Bathsheba are wonderful novels. Each book is powerful and can stand on their own. Michal, telling about David in his youth and running from King Saul. Abigail tells of King David as his kingdom is established. Bathsheba shares about his last years. King David was a strong and passionate leader and these three of many wives helped him in so many ways. I highly recommend these Christian fiction books on their own or as the series.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Bathsheba by Jill Eileen Smith on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Bathsheba by Jill Eileen Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Bathsheba by Jill Eileen Smith showcases the humanity of King David and Bathsheba and the love and mercy that God offers for His own pleasure and purpose. I found myself having compassion on both characters because there was so much sadness and loneliness around them. I could understand how they might have been able to cling to each other, even though they had their own spouses. Among the pain there is growth and forgiveness and that is the theme of life. I truly enjoyed the Wives of King David series, this book being #3. I highly recommend this fiction book to anyone that likes to read, even if you are not a Christian.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 2, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Abigail by Jill Eileen Smith is an amazing historical fiction novel based on the story of King David in the bible. Abigail was David’s third wife, but before she was King David’s wife, she was betrothed to Nabal, a cruel, rich man who had inherited debt owed to his father, by Abigail’s father. Both Abigail’s father and brother worked for Nabal and Abigail was promised to him as soon as she was old enough to marry.
The marriage was filled with abuse and infidelity but Abigail was honorable to her husband in order to honor God. When David’s men protected Nabal’s livestock and required some pay, Nabal refused. Knowing this would not end well, Abigail ordered her servants to pack mules with provisions and she met David on his way to seek revenge. David respected how Abigail honored him and was thankful for the payment. There were mutual feelings on both sides at their first meeting.
As Abigail tried to tell her husband how she had saved his life and corrected his mistake, Nabal was about to strike her, but God would not allow it and struck Nabal down, who died a few days later. When David found out, he asked permission from Abigail’s father, who had joined his camp earlier, for her hand and once he agreed, David offered to marry Abigail, knowing that a woman without a husband in Israel at that time was powerless, Abigail accepted.
Abigail knew she was David’s third wife and knew he would probably take more wives. She truly loved David and he truly loved her. David even admitted, he wished he had met her first, so she could be his only wife. Her love for the Lord and her wisdom were a great comfort to him. Out of all his wives, she was the easiest confidant and support.
But sharing King David was a true test of her strength and devotion. It was hard to bear the other wive’s complaints and to share his time among them and their children, but with God’s help they made it work.
Abigail is number 2 in the 3 part biblical fiction series of The Wives of King David. I can’t really compare this book to the first one: Michal. Abigail is it’s own story. Both books are wonderful in their own ways. Whether you are a Christian or not I believe that this story of romance and war is compelling and worth the read.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Abigail by Jill Eileen Smith on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Abigail: A Novel (The Wives of King David) by Jill Eileen Smith (2010) Paperback by Jill Eileen Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Abigail by Jill Eileen Smith is number two in a 3 part Christian Fiction series about The Wives of King David. Abigail was King David’s third wife and probably his favored because of her love for the Lord and her wise ways. She came to him while he was still living in the wilderness, hiding from King Saul’s murderous hunting and rose with him to the pinnacle of his success. The story of Abigail is full of history, romance, war and everything in between. I really enjoyed this book.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 31, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Michal by Jill Eileen Smith is biblical fiction and based on history as found in the bible; the story of the rise of King David.
“And suddenly she knew. A window to her soul opened, and Michal squirmed at the sight. What a bitter woman she’d become! She’d been so afraid Father’s demons would one day hound her steps that she never realized she’d given herself over to demons of her one.”
Michal wasn’t sure how to pray but she was not alone and Adonai led her through to repentance.
Michal was the youngest daughter of King Saul, the first king and once powerful ruler of Israel. But as Saul stopped honoring the Lord Most High, his success waned and he was known to have fits of madness. Only the music of David could soothe him. But there was word that David had been anointed as the next king by Samuel the priest and this hurt King Saul’s pride. He wanted his son to be king. But even Jonathan, the king’s son was willing to honor God’s will. As King Saul’s madness progressed he was willing to do anything to keep David away from the throne. However, Michal loved David and she did become his first wife. But as King Saul sought to kill David, he had to leave his bride behind as he fled. They were separated for 17 years before David could take his place on the throne and reclaim her, but much had changed for both of them.
I was so into this historical fiction book, I read all 382 pages in one day. I simply couldn’t put down the book. I highly recommend this novel on romance and war and everything in between to anyone that likes to read, especially if you enjoy Christian Fiction.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Michal by Jill Eileen Smith on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Michal by Jill Eileen Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Michal is a book about romance and war and life lived as the daughter of a king driven mad with jealousy while being the wife of the future king. Michal has a life of loss that has turned to bitterness but in the end she learns to turn to God for forgiveness and freedom from all the pain.
Michal by Jill Eileen Smith is an action packed book that keep the pages turning for me. This is not the first book by Smith that I have read and I look forward to reading more. I highly recommend her books to anyone that likes to read.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 30, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I am sitting here and thinking about how I can really honor The Last Black Unicorn by TIffany Haddish. This autobiography is for adults. Your kids might want to read it but you might want to read it first because Haddish has had a challenging life and she doesn’t hide any of it, not the complexities of being black, homeless, female, abused or any other detail about her life as she shares her memoir of how she built her life from being an unwanted foster kid to being celebrity. Comedy is Haddish’s saving grace and what keeps her healthy. It is how she has made it through most of the hardest parts of her life. In high school she had the opportunity to meet Richard Pryor and he told her to always have fun and that advise has really paid off. This nonfiction biography is filled with pain, growth, but also humor and beauty as Haddish learns to value and trust herself.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Last Black Unicorn by TIffany Haddish on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have always enjoyed Tiffany Haddish in movies and in interviews. She is so authentic. This book is honest. She has had a hard life but she always chooses to have a good time. She has overcome a lot and worked hard to be where she is and this book tells how she did it. It was an easy read because you didn’t want to put it down. Haddish is an amazing and resilient woman.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 29, 2024 | About Summer, Opinions
Rumination is probably my best unconscious sport. I bet if I went to the Olympics I could bring home a gold metal for ruminating. I don’t mean to. I have OCD and PTSD and Anxiety Disorder and between those three disorders sometimes I am stuck in the past, trying to fix the outcome of events or I am stuck in the future worrying about things that haven’t happened yet. I don’t always realized I am doing this until I notice that my muscles are tensing and I am feeling angry or frustrated. Lucky for me, God is always with me and God loves the people I am fixated on, more than I ever could. As soon as I realize where I am at, I pray for the people in my mind and ask God to forgive me, and them, and to bless us both with a good night’s sleep, and I agree with whatever God is doing in their lives that brings God pleasure. Forgiveness is the best gift ever!
This week the opening act for the Olympics gave us a perfect opportunity to see where asking questions and being slow to anger is necessary. I don’t know Greek history but I do know the bible. When people were posting their half screen shots of the performance of the celebration of the Greek gods beside the painting of the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci with angry comments poised at France and the performers, it was short-sighted. One, the celebration of the Greek gods was not the same thing as the Last Supper in the bible. Two, the painting by Leonardo da Vinci, although is attractive and a show of great talent, is incorrect as well because Jesus and His disciples are Jewish and not white. Their skin should be brown and their hair would never be blonde. Three, before we spend our energy getting angry at things we don’t understand, we should always ask questions and pray before we accuse anyone. This scenario is the perfect place where forgiveness and mercy are necessary.
When I was growing up I didn’t like my grandpa Clemenson. I had several reasons. Some of them were probably based in my neurodivergence, which we didn’t know about. I am sensitive to energy and noises. My grandfather had a powerful authoritarian energy that didn’t do anything for my relationship and success motivated personality (but I only like to compete with myself). He also had a very loud voice and made loud noises that startled me. He made me nervous. I also didn’t like hugging him because of where he would put his hands. I was angry that I knew that my father had been abused as a child by both his parents and was, in fact, the scape goat and endured more abuse than most of his 8 siblings and finally moved out when he was 14 years old. I know that things changed after my grandfather stopped drinking. It was easier to forgive my grandmother because she was always caring for everyone. It was easier to see that she loved my father. When my grandfather died, I read his obituary and he did some amazing things. There were many things to respect about my grandfather. He was a very hard worker. He married my grandmother when she was pregnant and raised another man’s child, as his own. My grandparents helped a lot of the neighborhood children with housing, clothes and food. My grandparents were married for almost 50 years; he died before their anniversary. These are all honorable things. I have also learned many things from my Aunt Elaine. She has many great stories about him, where he was kind and gentle, that I would never have known about.
I am writing about this because I was surprised to have him come visit me in a dream last week. I am used to Grammy and Grandma Clemenson and Nana coming to see me, but I have never had Grandpa Clemenson come to see me ever, until last week. He was young, like in some of the pictures Aunt Elaine has shown me, he was slim and had hair. He was softer and calmer too. I don’t remember exactly what he said but it was something like: You don’t know the whole story. You only know your side of my story and your dad’s story. I felt like he was trying to tell me about my dad.
I feared and disliked my grandfather so much that I went by a made up last name in my 20’s. It took me a long time to forgive and let go of things I can probably never completely understand. But I did. With the help of God and therapy, I was able to begin to accept healing for myself and even my ancestors. My grandfather coming to see me was a reminder of how far I have come. I am thankful for that dream. It is nice to have a non stressful moment with my grandfather.
I also know that there are things I will never know about my father. I have forgiven him for a lot. I don’t see us changing though. I have tried so hard to have him in my life, but his traumas are still right on his sleeve. I don’t require perfection but I do require attempts and he will not see a therapist. We are wired the same and I think we could build a relationship because we really can, not talk about topics that trigger us but his wife won’t let that happen. Now that I am married, I understand that I can’t ask him to leave her behind, if he were to come for a visit. She will still be there. I can’t have her in my life.
Forgiveness sets us free from the past. It lets us move forward but that doesn’t mean we can go back. Mercy is for moving forward. The difference between artistic expression on the television and family is that one is for a moment and we can turn it off or walk out of the room and make a cup of tea while it plays out. It is easy to ask questions for clarification and within a few days people will answer all your questions. You don’t have to spend one second being angry or having any feelings that are a waste of time. When people we love hurt us, it is a bigger situation, especially if they keep doing it over and over and you have tried to peacefully make it stop and that hasn’t worked. But in reality the response is the same. When we feel wronged, we must forgive. Forgiveness is definitely the best gift ever. And when we are beat up and tired and don’t know how to get up and keep going, that is when mercy comes in and shows us that we are not alone and we don’t even have to get up on our own. That is God.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 26, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg takes place between 1924 and 1988. It is a compilation of stories told by Mrs. Ninny Threadgood to Evelyn Couch when she comes with her husband to visit his mother at Rose Terrace Nursing Home. Evelyn is not welcomed by her mother-in-law so she finds herself visiting with a lively lady; Mrs. Threadgood, who loves to tell her about the amazing stories of Whistle Stop, Alabama, where she grew up and would like to return, as soon as her roommate Mrs. Otis gets comfortable and can handle her leaving.
For years, Fried Green Tomatoes has been my favorite movie. People have always told me that it was a queer friendly movie and I never saw it. But I have finally purchased the book and the book is now one of my favorites. Idgie (one of the main characters) was a lesbian and her mother knew it and if it bothered her, she didn’t let it show. She loved her daughter. she had a suit made for her to wear to her sister’s wedding instead of fighting her over a dress. When she saw that Idgie loved Ruth, she announced it at the family dinner table and sent the kids away for laughing at her. When Ruth came back to be with Idgie, leaving her abusive husband, pregnant, Idgie’s father gave her $500 to buy a business to support her family. To have the love and support from their family and community must have been amazing.
The nice thing about books is they have time to develop characters that movies don’t and even though it is fiction, I love how Flagg showed us the depth of each character and even brought us to the end of their life. Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe is a classic contemporary story of love, empowerment, humor and southern flare. It is properly based in a historical fiction setting that is interesting all on its own but also relevant to all female literature readers as well. The book has everything in it to keep the pages turning mystery, murder, social injustice and lots of friendship. I highly recommend this book to anyone!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I LOVE THIS BOOK! I have seen the movie several times. It is one of my favorites but the book, as always, has caught my heart and will be on my shelf for when I need to go to a more simple time. Fannie Flag wrote a masterpiece about topics that are not always easy to talk about but she did it so smoothly that I was overwhelmed with all kinds of emotions. People had always told me that two of the main characters, Ruth and Idgie were a couple, but I didn’t think they were more than great friends. The movie was not specific enough for me, but the book was blatant and I needed that. The entire book takes place between the 1920’s and the 1980’s while Mrs. Threadgood, a resident at the home where Evelyn Couch’s mother in law lives, tells Evelyn about her life in Whistle Stop, Alabama. Through the powerful stories, their relationship brings Mrs. Threadgood a new friend and helps Evelyn come to terms with middle age, menopause and herself. I could hardly put this book down!
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 25, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Descriptions of cultural, racial and physical differences that note “otherness,” these may also include wealth, class and gender; these differences are used to identify an outsider in order to define one’s self. Othering is only taught by example. We want to own and govern the other because of the emotions they provoke in our own self. When strangers walk away from us they sometimes take our good opinion of ourself with them.
These are all ideas that I pulled out The Origin of Others by Toni Morrison a Black author, known for her stories and essays on feminism, race, social justice and history. Morrison is a highly intelligent artist that writes fiction novels but weaves in nonfiction and deep cultural meaning into all her work. Her philosophy is to engage her readers in as much reality or purpose as they can bear.
The Origin of Others is a short but powerful read. I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Origin of Others by Toni Morrison on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Origin of Others by Toni Morrison
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Toni Morrison has always fascinated me and this book did not disappoint. The Origin of Others by Toni Morrison is about race and how people create “others” because of the emotions they created in our own self. Morrison talks about how she uses these concepts in her books and how she felt her readers responded to them. It is a short but honest read.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 24, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
The best times I had as a kid were under the apple trees in my back yard. I would steal my mom’s old sheets and find some string or yarn and make a tent and live in there until I had to come out. When I wasn’t doing my doll’s hair I was reading. It was a great way to find shade and let my imagination run wild. I hope you are finding times with your kids making forts and reading piles of books. It is the best way to take adventures without going anywhere, especially when parents have to work and kids need something to do. I hear Longview Public Library has some great programs this summer too! Now for our 5 books for July 2024:
The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle
The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have to admit I was a little grumpy when I started to read The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle and the art in this colorful children’s picture book really cheered me up. The grouchy lady bug has terrible manners and big emotions and feels like fighting but can’t seem to find the perfect animal to fight no matter where she goes on her adventure. This great classic family fiction book talks about time, size, shape, mathematics and manners and is even a board book so it can be washed a bit, making it a perfect story time book.
This is definitely a book to read again and again. In fact, apparently I read and reviewed this book last summer too! 🙂
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle on Amazon.
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A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson
A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson
A Picture for Harold’s Room was written in 1960 by Crockett Johnson. It is a wonderful adventure story as Harold, wanting to create a picture for his room imagines an entire world where he becomes very large and also very small. This fiction children’s classic is the perfect pace for family story time before bed while Harold explores and explains the fantasy world he creates in this picture book. I really enjoyed it.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Dandelion by Don Freeman
Dandelion by Don Freeman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Dandelion by Don Freeman is a story about a lion that is invited to a party and wants to change his look but his friends like him the way he is and don’t recognize him. This classic fiction book is full of different animals who all help Dandelion with his day of fashion or enjoy him at the party after they finally let him in. I think this picture book is a little short-sighted because no one lets Dandelion explore his new look but only likes him when he stays the same. Sometimes that happens in real life so maybe this book also brings value to story time.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Dandelion by Don Freeman on Amazon.
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Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson
Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson is a colorful children’s fantasy picture book that reminds us that no one is perfect. We all color outside the lines sometimes or make mistakes and it is ok. With wonderful words that rhyme, Stinson uses poetry to liven up story time with fiction that is as real as true life and farting. The illustrations by Rebecca Ashdown add humor and aid our imagination to take us to fun places. I recommend this book.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson on Amazon.
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Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen
Layla, the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Layla is about to start school for the first time and she is a little nervous. She has spent all her life in the Overlook Woods with her animal friends and that is where she is comfortable. But as fall comes, it is time to go to school at Unicornia with all the other unicorns. Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen us a fantasy children’s story about learning how to find your way in a new place. This fiction picture book is brought to life by illustrations by Jessica Gibson. This book, about how our differences can be our strength, will be a great addition to your story time.
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen on Amazon.
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I had a great time reading this books. Let me tell you, it was what I needed to get my mind off of politics!
Be Blessed!
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 12, 2024 | Fuel Your Wellness
This article was originally posted on Wellness Works NW on June 28, 2024. I have been in a bit of a rut lately and letting my self-care get a little lackadaisical. While I was scrolling on Facebook I saw an advertisement by Jason Seib for Weakless Week June 2024 and thought this might be what I needed. It was. I didn’t get too deep into researching Seib but from what I can tell, he is a personal trainer that helps people change their thoughts in order to change their lives. He offered membership to a closed group for a week, 5 days of videos where he gave tools to help people change how they think and in the end you can join another closed group for a monthly fee. The first week and group was free. (more…)
by Summer D Clemenson | Jun 28, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
It is officially summer time and the kids are home. There is no better reason to be reading children’s books. I hope you are enjoying time in any book you enjoy but if you have kids, there is no better time than time spent reading with your kids. When you read to kids to teach them that learning and loving is important, you encourage communication too and that is so important. With out much further ado…here are our 5 Books for June 2024.
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson is an amazing adventure for Harold as he draws his way through his visit to the circus. With humor he tells us about the animals and dogs, clowns and even the treats in this fiction children’s classic. Harold is endearing and charming and provides many ways to talk about all kinds of things in this picture book. Harold’s Circus is an outstanding addition to any family story time.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Curious George Rides A Bike by H.A. Rey
Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
George is a little monkey that is known for humor and getting himself into adventures and Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey does not disappoint. It is George’s 3rd anniversary with the Man in the Yellow Hat and he has given George a beautiful bike as a gift. While his friend finishes work, George explores the town in this picture book and finds ducks and other animals at the zoo. In this fiction children’s classic, George even gets to play a part in the zoo performance that night. This story book is super fun!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey on Amazon.
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Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy
Walter the Farting Dog: Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Walter always makes me laugh and the fact that his family loves him in spite of his terrible gas is very endearing. Yet not everyone can, as seen in this fiction family story, Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy.
First Walter is banned from the beach and then he is banned rom the village because of his bodacious farting but it is that same gargantuan gas bombs that ends up saving the day, finding buried treasure and helping the family afford their own private beach house where Walter is free to fart and not be condemned.
The illustrations by Audry Colman make this story book even more hilarious! I highly recommend this book that is exploding with humor!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy on Amazon.
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The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale Retold by Angela Elwell Hunt
The Tale of Three Trees : A Traditional Folktale by Angela Elwell Hunt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale retold by Angela Elwell Hunt is a beautiful children’s fiction picture book. Based on religion folklore, the story tells us how three trees grow up to become tools that serve Jesus through His life on earth. The illustrations by Tim Jonke are stunning and really bring the book to life. This is a special story to add to any book collection.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale retold by Angela Elwell Hunt on Amazon.
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Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett is a fun family story filled with humor and fantasy, told by a grandfather to his grandkids about a place called Chewandswallow where all the food came from the sky. This was a great place to live until it got out of hand and everyone had to escape for their lives. This children’s fiction picture book is brought to life by illustrations by Ron Barrett. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs will make any story time more tasty!
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett on Amazon.
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I had so much fun picking out these book. I hope you enjoyed reading the reviews. If you want to hear about any books you have heard about please send me a message with the form below and I will make sure to try to find that book.
Be blessed.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
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