by Summer D Clemenson | May 28, 2024 | Fuel Your Wellness
The article was originally posted on Wellness Works NWon May 21, 2024.
I was recently watching TV and a commercial came on that said that artificial sweeteners caused strokes. I don’t eat foods with artificial sweeteners because they cause my GERD to flare up but I was curious and thought it was time for me to be learning about artificial sweeteners. Food and beverages with sugar in them give us empty calories that add up and cause weight gain. They also raise the risk of of health problems like diabetes and heart disease. Whether you are eating white sugar, honey, molasses or organic sugars, they are all sugar and they all lead to the same result. For this reason, many people look to sugar substitutes that offer less calories and some have no calories.
Types of Sugar
- Sugar (50% glucose, 50% fructose)
- Agave (10% glucose, 90% fructose)
- Honey (30% glucose, 40% fructose, 14% water & small amounts of vitamins & minerals)
- High Fructose Corn Syrup (45% glucose, 55% fructose)
- Rice or Brown Rice Syrup (3% glucose, 52% maltotriose, 45% maltose)
- Molasses
- Sugar Substitutes
Sugar is a simple carbohydrate that is naturally found in fruits, dairy, grains and some vegetables. Table sugar is a combination of two simple carbs: glucose and fructose. Glucose is metabolized by our cells for energy. Fructose is metabolized by our liver which promotes fat. The FDA calls Sugar Substitutes Non-Nutritive Sweeteners because they are high-intensity, low-calorie, artificial sweeteners that provide no nutritional benefits such as vitamins and minerals. (more…)
by Summer D Clemenson | May 20, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
The Ark and the Dove The Story of Noah’s Wife by Jill Eileen Smith is based on the scriptures from the bible found in Genesis 5:32 through 10:1 where we can learn about what was happening during the time of Noah and the building of the ark and what it was like to be alive on the earth at that time. The bible doesn’t give a ton of detail but Smith has obviously taken a lot of time to help us see what it would have been like to be alive during this time and how it would have been to be the wife of Noah in this historical fiction book. Zara had many responsibilities in order to support her family, her husband and the wives of her sons. It was hard to be the only family that believed in the Creator and her family was persecuted often. Zara had to be strong for them all and she worked hard to be what they needed.
It was also hard to leave behind the people they loved that didn’t choose God. I hadn’t ever thought of that before, but mourning was part of their burden as they lived in close quarters with thousands of types of animals in the ark. This story continues for generations after the flood as Noah and Zara lived to see their great-great-grandchildren. This is a beautiful Christian story. I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend this retelling of Noah’s ark.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of The Ark and the Dove The Story of Noah’s Wife by Jill Eileen Smith on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah’s Wife by Jill Eileen Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have heard and read the story of Noah and the Ark many times but it was nothing like The Ark and the Dove The Story of Noah’s Wife by Jill Eileen Smith. I loved this version! It had so many details about the life of Noah and Zara and their children and the culture they lived in. This historical fiction version brought the story of Noah’s Ark to life for me and I really got a lot out of it. I have a new found appreciation for work and dedication that Noah’s family put into honoring God’s commands. I highly recommend 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 | May 13, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Emmett Till was a black 14 year old boy, raised in Chicago, that had come for a visit to his great-uncle, Moses Wright’s sharecropping farm in Mississippi. Before he left Chicago, he was told by his mother to not look white people in the eye and refer to them as sir and ma’am and to be very respectful. On Sunday August 28, 1955 Moses Wright was awakened at 2 am by two white men and at least one black man. “This is Mr. Bryant,” said another white man. “We want to talk to the boy. We’re here to talk to you about that boy from Chicago, the one that done the talking up at Money.” Milan, Chapter 2
No one is entirely clear what happened at the Bryant market in Money, Mississippi. Emmett’s cousins left him alone for only a few minutes. But Mrs. Bryant felt insecure enough to get her husband’s gun out of the car and tell her husband about it when he got home. Her husband and brother-in-law were upset enough about it to kidnap Emmett and brutalize him until he finally died and then throw his body in the Tallahatchie River, where it resurfaced on Wednesday August 31, 1955.
It would not have mattered how carefully the trial would have been handled. No one was going to find Bryant and Milan guilty for the crime of killing a black person, even though he was a child; not in Mississippi.
“[Emmett’s mother] Mamie [Bradley] was haunted by a story of a little black girl who had been playing with a white girl at the home of the white family that employed her mother. The white girl got upset with the black girl and ran to tell her father as he walked up the driveway from work. He angrily snatched up the black girl, shook her like a rag doll, then tossed her up against a tree in the front yard. ‘Now that girl’s mother had to finish her day’s work before she could even look after her daughter, who left there writhing in pain the rest of the day,’ Mamie remembered many years later. ‘Eventually, the little girl died of her injuries. This is a cautionary tale,’ she said, a tale of horror or rooted in real experience.” Chapter 4
Tyson did not only give us a picture into the murder of Emmett in this true crime history memoir but also into the culture at the time that Emmett’s biography takes place and what was happening in politics and race in Mississippi and other southern states. Only weeks before Emmett was murdered 2 black men were lynched for attempting to register black voters in the Magnolia State.
Had Mamie Bradley not immediately begun calling Chicago newspapers when she learned that her son’s body had been found, had she not insisted that his body not be buried immediately in Mississippi but be brought to Chicago and then had an open casket service, her son’s murder may have gone unnoticed. But Bradley was not going to allow her son’s death to be in vain and because of her courage and strength, her son’s death got the attention of people around the world and brought to light not only the behavior of white supremacy in the south but in the north and where complacency was probably worse than actual violent actions.
The death of Emmett Till inspired many people to work hard to gain more traction with more fair civil rights and social justice for everyone. We still have room to grow, but we have come so far. The Blood of Emmett Till by Timothy B. Tyson is an emotional and hard read at times, but it is a well written nonfiction memoir that is an important reminder of American history and the importance of loving our neighbor.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Blood of Emmett Till by Timothy B. Tyson on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Blood of Emmett Till by Timothy B. Tyson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you are looking for a light read, The Blood of Emmett Till by Timothy B. Tyson, is not it. But if you looking for a vital read this book does check those boxes. This nonfiction book doesn’t just explore the facts of the Emmett Till murder but also the politics and culture in the United States and especially the southern states where white supremacy was felt the loudest.
I recommend this book as an important part of any educated person’s reading list.
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 | May 1, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I have always enjoyed Matthew McConaughey in movies and interviews. I have always been able to see that he is authentic and wise. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey is a autobiography that showcases how he has gotten to be that way. He is honest with himself and with the readers. McConaughey is an inspiration in all his art.
“We all step in shit from time to time. We hit roadblocks, we fuck up, we get fucked, we get sick, we don’t get what we want, we cross thousands of ‘could have done better’s’ and ‘wish that wouldn’t have happened’s in life. Stepping in shit is inevitable, so let’s either see it as good luck, or figure out how to do it less often.” Matthew McConaughey
If I were to be critical of anything about the biography memoir, it is a creative effort to use McConaughey’s handwritten thoughts to make this nonfiction book more interesting. My only problem with it is that the writing is so small that it is very hard to read. I love the poetry throughout the book and the pictures and the layout.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I needed to read this book. I bought it several months ago but it fell into my hands when I needed some inspiration and inspiration I found. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey is a nonfiction autobiography memoir that is filled with real life. McConaughey does not sugar coat anything but he also finds the ray of light in all situations and that is how he keeps moving forward and challenges himself towards excellence.
Raised in Texas, he wanted to be a lawyer until he had studied long enough to find his true calling of being an actor. He has been writing all his life. Travel was important to him and helped him cultivate his humanitarian outlook. This biography showcases McConaughey’s true art; life. This book is a must 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 | Apr 26, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I just finished a biography about a woman scientist and I loved it. I was never good at science. But Finding the Mother Tree Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard kept me engaged. I think it is because she loves the trees so much. She was taught to love nature by her people, her family, that love the trees. I love trees too and I can feel a connection with them when I am with them and I could feel that she knows what I feel when I am with the forest.
You don’t have to have a degree in biology to understand this book and I love that Simard explains the science part well enough that anyone could follow. She shares about her family lineage while she tells about her studies in both Canada and the United States, learning about ecology and the environment and different ways to help the trees grow stronger and healthier. Her activism and feminism comes naturally because she comes from strong and capable women and she wants to portray that to her two daughters she is raising in this nonfiction book.
In the end of the book, she has proven that we are all connected. We are connected with each other, with the animals and the plants; something the Native people, that are very prominent in Canada have been trying to teach for years. This is something that I have been learning a lot about too. I can feel this as my beloved cat is coming to the end of his path and I can feel him separating from me. What timing to finish this book. I wonder if I would have read this book a few years ago if I would have felt different.
I have really enjoyed this book. Simard has a very wonderful way of being open in her writing and it was easy to connect. I highly recommend this book.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of Finding the Mother Tree Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Finding the Mother Tree Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard is an amazing biography by a woman that shares her family, her belief in activism, science, feminism, her love for the environment and nature and science. Simard studied biology in both Canada and the United States, but did most of her work in Canada, where she has lived most of her life. This nonfiction book teaches that ecology as well as spirituality proves that we are all connected and Simard’s life’s work has proved with science that this is so. I highly recommend 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 | Apr 22, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Happy April! I have been enjoying working on rebuilding my children’s book collection so for the next few months we will be exploring some of my own books. I have really loved going through my favorite books and remembering reading them to the children I have loved.
Do you have any favorite books you have read your little ones? Or any books you remember someone reading to you? Please feel free to share them with me.
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Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Harold is an inquisitive child with bright eyes and a big purple crayon. While we read Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson we are taken on an adventure of art in the moonlight in this fiction storybook.
As Harold guides us along, he draws what he imagines in this endearing children’s picture book. We are taken over land and sea and even in a hot air balloon while Harold envisions his fantasy, until he gets tired and wants to go home to bed and he draws that too. Since 1955, Harold has been entertaining children, and I am positive this classic will continue for years to come.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Corduroy by Don Freeman
Corduroy by Don Freeman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Although Corduroy is just a teddy bear in a fantasy, he sure seems like a real creature that anyone could relate to. I guess that is why this classic, Corduroy by Don Freeman, has been a storybook enjoyed by families since 1968.
Corduroy is a sweet little bear that lives in a toy store with other animals and has the ability to find himself on adventures. In the end he gets a new friend, Lisa, a new home, and his overalls are mended. This children’s fiction picture book is a must read for any family collection.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Corduroy by Don Freeman on Amazon.
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Curious George Gets a Medal by H.A. Rey
Curious George Gets a Medal by H.A. Rey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In the classic book, Curious George Gets a Medal by H.A. Rey we meet a very precocious monkey named George. All the schemes in this storybook start out innocently enough, but become outrageous and humorous and since he is so lovable, everyone cheers. Even though George floods the house, steels a cow and destroys an art exhibit, George also saves the day by becoming the first space monkey and receives a medal of honor and the whole town celebrates with him, including the animals!
This children’s fiction picture book is a riot and sure to keep a smile on your face while you enjoy George and his fantasy adventures. This book has been entertaining families since 1957, but I am sure George will be a family favorite for years to come.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Curious George Gets a Medal by H.A. Rey on Amazon.
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Rough Weather Ahead for Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkie, Glenn Murray and Elizabeth Gundy
Rough Weather Ahead for Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have to admit, I have heard about Walter the Farting Dog, but I am not sure I have read any of the books before. I bought this book with my great-nephews in mind and I am hooked! Rough Weather Ahead for Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkle, Glenn Murray and Elizabeth Gundy is a wonderful family storybook. Walter’s family is amazing! They love their dog even though he can clear a room and even melt the ice on butterfly wings!
The illustrations by Audry Colman really adds to the enjoyment and humor of this fiction children’s picture book! I think you really should grab a copy for yourself and have a good heart-warming laugh. Humor and animals sometimes go hand in hand and why not during story time?
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Rough Weather Ahead for Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkle, Glenn Murray and Elizabeth Gundy on Amazon.
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Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin is a very cute children’s fiction storybook. If you want to learn about Dragons and how much they love tacos and how they like to eat them, this is the book for you! The illustrations by Daniel Salmieri are colorful and really add to this picture book.
I think this book would be a great conversation starter with children about different kinds of animals, foods and colors. Who doesn’t like to dream about fantasy characters eating their favorite foods while making it humorous? What a great story time opportunity!
View all my reviews
I got this book out of my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin on Amazon.
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Thank you for enjoying my book reviews
I hope you take the time to check these books out for yourself.
Reading to children is such a treat! They are so easily amused and they are so inquisitive. It is fun to watch them get curious and laugh at the funniest things. I encourage you to read to the little ones in your life. You won’t regret it.
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 | Apr 3, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Hungry Ghosts by Kevin Jared Hosein is a literary fiction book that takes place in Trinidad in the 1940’s. Hosein takes the first few chapters of this novel to help you realize the vast difference between the classes of people, especially our main characters. Hans and Shweta Saroop and their son, Krishna, who live in a barrack, made of wood and tin, with several other families. The walls are thin, there is little privacy and they all share one latrine. And on what can seem like, the other end of the world, are Dalton and Marlee Changoor that own a large farm in Bell Village.
This historical fiction story is filled with mystery, spirituality and all kinds of adventure as Krishna and his friends deal with the bullies at school and growing up. Hosein successfully paints a picture of generational trauma and linked histories. He also reminds us that sometimes it is better to want what we have.
This thriller has taken me everywhere emotionally and was rich with information about a place I will probably never visit.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of Hungry Ghosts by Kevin Jared Hosein on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Hungry Ghosts by Kevin Jared Hosein
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hungry Ghosts by Kevin Jared Hosein is about people that work hard but enjoy their life. That is, until Hans, the head of the Saroop family gets the chance to work as night watchman at the Changoor farm while Dalton Changoor is away. Hans doesn’t know that Dalton is probably dead. He also doesn’t know that Marlee Changoor has been admiring him while he works on her property during the day.
Hans looks at this this opportunity as the one his family needs to get the money they need to buy land in Bell Village and get away from the barracks they have been living in and have a better life. But soon he is lured inside the big house. He enjoys the fancy food, the nice music, the beautiful furniture and most sadly, Mrs. Changoor.
This break in the Saroop family causes a domino effect in the rest of the novel based in 1940’s Trinidad.
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 | Apr 2, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I do know that I am at least 3 days late with this article but I do believe that wonderful things can happen in only 3 days…which is why so many people celebrate Resurrection Sunday. In reality my family was really busy in the month of March which is why I am late but the books I chose for this month were really great and worth the wait.
I am wondering, did you ever get a chance to check out any of the other books I have reviewed? Let me know!
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Just You and Me by Jennifer Ward
Just You and Me: Remarkable Relationships in the Wild by Jennifer Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Just You and Me by Jennifer Ward is a nonfiction book about symbiotic relationships in nature, on land and in the sea. These relationships have been created by what seems to be unlikely animal friends but they have learned to work together to take care of each other.
For instance a Nile crocodile can’t clean their own teeth so they allow an Egyptian plover bird to hop, safely into their mouth to eat the leftover food in their teeth and gums. The crocodile gets a clean mouth and the bird gets a full belly.
The colorful illustrations by Alexander Vidal add great interest in this picture book and help showcase the relationships of these unlikely friends. I think they also make for great conversations starters for children and grownups alike.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Just You and Me by Jennifer Ward on Amazon.
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Homeless by Bernard Wolf
Homeless by Bernard Wolf
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Homeless by Bernard Wolf is a very touching nonfiction story told in the voice of Mikey, an 8-year-old boy. Mikey and his family are homeless and are living in a very hard and real scenario. This book was published in 1995, but there are still a lot of similar stories like Mikey’s
I don’t think this book is meant for very young children because they just won’t have the attention span, but for children 7 and older, I think this would be a powerful way to help children learn to empathize with people experiencing homelessness.
Wolf didn’t just write this biography, he also showcased the story with powerful photography that illustrated the family’s life. Both the writing and photography help to illustrate the difficulties of families that need help.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Homeless by Bernard Wolf on Amazon.
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Rabbit and Squirrel A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau
Rabbit & Squirrel: A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The illustrations by Scott Magoon are adorable. This is my favorite thing about the picture book Rabbit and Squirrel A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau. I really wanted to love this book but the animal characters: Rabbit and Squirrel loved gardening but never tried to share their produce. They were quick to judge each other and when the farmer kicked them out of their garden, they continued to blame each other.
The thought of them getting sick of blaming each other and growing a garden together is not enough for me. I realize this is a fiction book but I want a better moral to the story, not just for me but for the children that would be inspired by this book. I will be choosing a different book for storytime at my house.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Rabbit and Squirrel A Tale of War and Peas by Kara LaReau on Amazon.
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Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis
Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I haven’t read about Corduroy for years but I have already ordered Corduroy and A Pocket for Corduroy by Don Freeman, the original creator of this fiction series, for my personal children’s book collection. These books will be in my next review. I so enjoyed Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis and it is in my shopping cart right now!
Lisa and her mother have gone to the theater for the first time. They are excited to see Mother Goose and of course Lisa has brought along her teddy bear, Corduroy. In true form, Corduroy has found a way to have an animal adventure while at the theater but still make it back into Lisa’s arms.
I love the illustrations by Jody Wheeler for this picture book. I love that both Davis and Wheeler stayed faithful to the original character of Corduroy, who is always lovable and heartwarming.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Corduroy Takes a Bow by Viola Davis on Amazon.
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Fred’s Big Feelings The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld
Fred’s Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I loved Mr. Rogers Neighborhood all my life. I would still watch reruns if I could find them. Mr. Rogers knew how to talk so I could understand my emotions and good ways to express them. Fred’s Big Feelings The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld is a very children’s-sized version of another nonfiction biography I have read and reviewed: The Good Neighbor The Life and Work of Fred Rogers by Maxwell King.
I am not sure a young child would have the attention span for this book because of the amount of history in it, but a child of 7 and up would appreciate this book. Especially the parts that talk about Mr. Rogers as a child. Parents will appreciate knowing how much time Mr. Rogers studied mental health as part of his spirituality journey so that he could project honesty and care into all of his programming. The illustrations by Brigitte Barrager add a lot to this picture book as well.
View all my reviews
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Fred’s Big Feelings The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers by Laura Renauld on Amazon.
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I really enjoyed the books I found for March. Reading children’s books has become something I am really enjoying and collecting them for the children in my life is become a small hobby that makes me happy as well.
What are some things that bring you joy?
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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 | Mar 22, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I had seen previews for the movie Killers of the Flower Moon and meant to see it and then forgot about it. Then one night I saw Martin Scorsese on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and really enjoyed his interview and I was reminded that I wanted to make time to see this movie and then forgot about it again. Then one day I was at the library with my wife, Karen G Clemenson, looking for books and I found Killers of the Flower Moon in the juvenile section while picking out books for my 5 Books for February 2024 article and I decided to grab it.
When I went up to check out my books I told the librarian I was surprised to find this book in the children’s section and she pointed out that this was a book edited for children and wanted to know if I still wanted it. Since the book my wife wanted, was not available and she was going to place a hold on it for us, I asked her to do the same for the adult version of Killers of the Flower Moon The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI by David Grann.
First off my impression of the book, based on what I had not really paid attention to in the previews for the movie needed to be thrown out the window. This is not a love story between a white man and an Osage woman. This is a true crime nonfiction story that really happened. This book is about how crooked White officials took advantage of Osage Natives, that had head rights to a lot of oil, in any way they could. Many times that meant murdering them and not investigating anything. Eventually a group out of Virginia, with the largest fingerprint database, and a little bit of training got wind of things and took over to finally find some justice for some of the lost people in Gray Horse, Oklahoma. This group became the FBI.
The story, itself is a little choppy. The details are a bit overwhelming. But the memories must not be lost. We must honor the victims and celebrate where we have gotten better.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Killers of the Flower Moon The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI by David Grann on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI by David Grann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Killers of the Flower Moon The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI by David Grann was an important read. It was a hard read for someone that doesn’t read true crime stories. But this nonfiction book tells an compelling story in history that is vital, not only to Native American and United States history, but the creation of a policing organization that was necessary when all others were uneducated, corrupt and unable to bring justice to families that had lost so much. You should read 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 | Feb 29, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
At 3 years old, the main character, Pik-Shuen, immigrated from China to Canada. She was with her mother and grandparents; her father stayed back in Hong Kong to keep working. They were very poor and they adults worked a lot but the short stories shared talk about closeness even the though the family does not talk about or show a lot of emotion. Throughout her life, Pik and her sister study art and live. Sometimes in China and mostly in Canada. As they become adults they spend more time with their father, because he became sick. This gives the family a chance to get to know each other and talk about how they felt about each other.
I found this book to be sad and sweet and somewhat healing. I loved the honesty and patience in the writing. The layout of the book is different and I enjoyed the short stories being each chapter with the implied space to think between each story.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of Ghost Forest by Pik-Shuen Fung on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Ghost Forest by Pik-Shuen Fung
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ghost Forest by Pik-Shuen Fung was a beautiful story about a family living on different continents trying to get to know each other. In short stories we get to see in the lives of these dynamic people and their culture. It was beautiful.
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 | Feb 28, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I have been working through a bag of books that I am supposed to pass onto Jamie’s sister, Joy, and I am almost through them all. In fact, now that I have finished The Invasion of Heaven by Michael B. Koep, I only have one more book to go. I was really surprised that Jamie would give me a book like this to read. I do not read sci-fi books and I don’t read suspense/thrillers. But I decided that the person that knows me best, besides my wife, might know something I don’t, I should give it a shot. She was right.
The main character, Loche Newith, a psychologist, has had a quiet and controlled life until now and that is how he likes it but he can’t seem to make things line up anymore. Between the apparent suicide of one client and the constant appearance in his life of another client, the finding of a long lost brother and art that seems to change people’s lives forever, either in good or bad ways, this book has every kind of element that might keep you turning pages until you run out.
I am glad I gave this book a chance. I really enjoyed it.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of The Invasion of The Invasion of Heaven by Michael B. Koep on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Invasion of Heaven by Michael B. Koep
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
As someone that does not read science fiction or thrillers I was surprised that I was caught by this book. Loche Newith, the main character, was complex and perfect for carrying this story. The fact that he was a psychologist is what kept me turning pages in the beginning but as the story matured, his stead-fastness is what endured and then the plot turned. Wow!
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 | Feb 27, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I was really blessed to come from a family that loved books. My mother, my aunt and mostly my nana really instilled my love for books into me. Nana could tell the best stories, whether she was telling me about my ancestors or she was reading a story from a book or she was telling me about the latest book she was reading. I know it was Nana that encouraged my love for words, quotes and writing. Who inspired you?
This month my wife and I chose different books. We didn’t pick cute stories but stores about real events that happened in the world. Hopefully these stories will inspire as well.
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Covered in Color: Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s Fabrics of Freedom by Eliza Boxer
Covered in Color: Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s Fabrics of Freedom by Elisa Boxer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cristo lived in Bulgaria as a boy during World War II. The Nazis came and burned all his colorful books that inspired him. After the war he enrolled in art school, but his communist country still controlled even his creativity and only encouraged propaganda art that made their government look good. When Cristo was 21 years old, he hid in a boxcar so he could travel to France, where he could be honest with his art.
While in France he made money painting portraits of people and practicing his art on his free time. Soon he met Jeanne-Claude with flame-colored hair and they fell in love. Then they decided to start their new life in the United States, in Manhattan, where they continued to try out new mediums.
Eventually they were able to talk some officials in Switzerland to allow them to wrap the museum Hamberger Kunsthalle in 26 thousand square feet of fabric and 2 miles of rope. They have wrapped buildings in Chicago, Berlin, the shoreline in Australia, 11 islands east of Miami, they placed 3,000 yellow and blue umbrellas in California and Japan, and 23 miles of orange flags in Central Park in New York. Their art was not the kind of art that lasts long but it made a huge impact while it was there and that is why it was so important to Cristo and Jeanne-Claude.
Covered in Color: Cristo and Jeanne-Claude’s Fabrics of Freedom by Eliza Boxer is a beautiful book to look at while it shares a real story in history. The honest writing style is easy to understand and the colorful illustrations by Susanna Chapman are engaging, yet not intimidating, even with some difficult topics. I really enjoyed this book.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Covered in Color: Cristo and Jeanne-Claude’s Fabrics of Freedom by Eliza Boxer on Amazon.
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Ashley Bryan’s Puppets by Ashley Bryan
Ashley Bryan’s Puppets: Making Something from Everything by Ashley Bryan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Ashley Bryan began making puppets out of things found lying around when he was only 9 years old. His puppets are not conventional but more like works of art and he uses poetry to convey their personalities which are rich in culture and vision. The artistry is outstanding and beautiful but this is not a story you would read before bed, but may be a good book you would use to have a conversation. I imagine an older child looking for inspiration would enjoy this book. The photos by Ken Hannon and edited by Rich Entel are stunning.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Ashley Bryan’s Puppets by Ashley Bryan on Amazon.
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The Adventure of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat
The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am so torn. I am sitting here with a warm feeling inside and a smile on my face after reading The Adventure of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat, but I want more. I am glad that Beekle and Alice found each other. I love the illustrations that almost tell more than the story, but I feel like just as the story was getting good, it just ended.
I can tell that it must get checked out a lot because it has more wear and tear than the other books I checked out and it boasts The Caldecott Medallion on it’s cover, but I still want more. I guess I don’t always get what I want.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of The Adventure of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat on Amazon.
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Standing in the Need of Prayer A Modern Retelling of the Classic Spiritual by Carole Boston Weatherford
Standing in the Need of Prayer: A Modern Retelling of the Classic Spiritual by Carole Boston Weatherford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I just read an important book. I plan to add Standing in the Need of Prayer by Carole Boston Weatherford to my personal collection. Not only is it poetic and true but it honestly shares important parts of the history of the United States of America as we have chosen to more fair Civil Rights for Black Americans.
The Illustrations by Frank Morrison are beautiful and I look forward to sharing them with the children that come to my home. I also appreciate the resources in the back of the book. I highly recommend this book to families.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of In Standing in the Need of Prayer by Carole Boston Weatherford on Amazon.
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Zonia’s Rain Forest by Juana Martinez-Neal
Zonia’s Rain Forest by Juana Martinez-Neal
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Zonia lives in Peru, in the rain forest. Every day she visits all her friends that live in the rain forest. One day as Zonia is heading home, she sees a large area of trees that has been cut down. She runs to her mother in fear. Zonia agrees with her mother that she must answer the call of the rain forest for help!
Zonia’s Rain First by Juana Martinez-Neal is a story about a very real problem that Indigenous people and wildlife in the Peruvian Amazon are facing. This book is a good way to educate and hopefully inspire change. There are helpful resources in the back of the book. I hope you read this book.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of Is Zonia’s Rain First by Juana Martinez-Neal on Amazon.
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I was talking with a friend about the books she read this month. She said for Black History Month she had read some pretty heavy books. She described a book about the last slave ship in South Carolina. I wasn’t surprised about what she had learned. I have been reading about Black culture for over 30 years. We had a quiet moment to acknowledge our pain of this knowledge. Then I told her that we don’t celebrate Black History Month in our house. She asked me why and I told her that Black history happens every day and we don’t need to only celebrate it one time a year; it is just our philosophy, however we do sometimes watch a movie that doesn’t make it on TV frequently. It took her a moment and then she smiled. Then I bombarded her with the list of books I bought about mainly Black folks that I hadn’t read about before that I had just ordered and added that maybe that was my way of celebrating.
I hope you have your ways of celebrating people all the time and not just one time a year because people are amazing!
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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 | Feb 20, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro begins on August 27, 1985, when three teenagers get into a car and make choices that change all their lives and the lives of their families forever. Sarah and Theo Wilf live but their parents never really talk about what happened and it eats at all of them. Misty Zimmerman, an only child, will not survive but her memory will haunt everyone on Division Street. Jump to 2010 when Benjamin Wilf, Sarah and Theo’s father meets, 11 year old Waldo Shenkman under the same tree that his car collided with, that night so long ago, to listen to Waldo explain his love for the constellations.
Signal Fires makes many jumps and connections throughout the book as we watch these characters develop and change. In three generations so much happens in these families. I really had a hard time putting this book down and I think you might enjoy it too.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a powerful book about how three families interconnect with each other over 3 generations. There is a lot of sadness in this book but also much to rejoice over. Over and over this book shows us how we are all connected. Dani Shapiro did a wonderful job developing her characters and story line. This book was hard to put 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 | Feb 12, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
The Manhattan Girls by Gill Paul takes place in New York City in 1921 where men are in charge and the liquor is illegal. 4 women create a bridge club which turns into a great friendship. Dorothy (Dottie) Parker renowned author, known for her great wit. Was very emotionally fragile. Jane Grant was the first female reporter for the New York Times. She and her husband started The New Yorker. Winifred Lenihan was a talented Broadway actress. Peggy Leach was a magazine assistant, turned novelist.
At first I had trouble getting into this book. It seemed a little like a soap opera, but I eventually engaged with this dynamic women and had to see where their lives took them. I recommend this book to anyone that wants to see where strong women can encourage each other, even in times where strong women are not encouraged.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of The Manhattan Girls by Gill Paul on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Manhattan Girls by Gill Paul
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have read a few poems by Dorothy Parker before but it did not occur to me that this novel was based on Parker and her friends until I had reached the end. I think I just jumped in and started absorbing. This book was different for me. I don’t tend to read a lot of novels and I don’t usually read a lot of books based on a mostly female cast. There were times that this book felt like a soap opera but the characters grew on me and I appreciated how well Gill Paul developed the characters. In the end I appreciated this book more than I expected and even the details included after the story was complete.
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 | Feb 6, 2024 | About Summer, Chronic Illness, Opinions
I have a person from the past that emails me. I always respond but I don’t tell them too much. Just enough. I know they love me but our relationship has always been toxic. It isn’t their fault. They are a good person they just need some help and I can’t give it to them. I have asked them to go to therapy, take the meds that a medical professional suggests, get better. They know that I have chosen to keep them out of my daily life, they always elude to that at the beginning of their email. It is part of how they communicate. If they tell me anything about themselves, it is how overwhelmed they are, a complaint about something they won’t get help with, but could. It is a pattern they are following because that is what they know. They never answer any questions I ask. They never ask any questions about me. These two statements tell me they still don’t know how to have an equal relationship, where I won’t be expected or needed to be the servant. I am afraid to let them closer to me partially because my blunt and honest communications style hurts their feelings and also their need to be served fits into my old patterns that triggers all my mental illnesses: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder.
When they first emailed me yesterday, I told them about a few things that have changed and things that were coming up. They never respond to my emails. I was surprised to get a response on the same day. In their second email they were telling me they were surprised that I responded. But I don’t understand that because I always answer their emails.
They wanted to walk with me. I told them no. I can’t do more than email right now. I said this for many reasons. First, I can’t go back to the old relationship we had. I need proof that they are different and they haven’t shown me that they have done anything to get better. Second, the actual type of biological relationship we had is not going to work for me and I don’t think they can just be my friend; because they haven’t proven they are doing anything to get better. Three, when I am walking I don’t talk; I am in pain. Every step is excruciating and I am just trying to get through the walk. I don’t want to hurt their feelings but my walks are all about me getting through it and I am not social at all.
In the past when I have tried to take care of myself and set boundaries I have been told I was selfish; this person suggested that I always have to have things my way. I am a neurodivergent person and a chronically ill person. They are right. I do have to have things my way sometimes, but not because I am selfish. I have a sick body and mind and many times I am not in control of what she is going to do, but also I wasn’t made to be a servant to my family; I was made to be a servant of God and He doesn’t ask me to give until I am sick like my extended family has.
I am not without compassion and empathy for this person. I pray for them and love them but I can’t save them; I have tried many times but I know now that it is not my job to do that. I also know how strong and capable they are to do this for themselves. If this person wants me in their life they are able to get the help they need to overcome the things that overwhelm them for their sake and mine. I know because I have done it and continue to do it. It doesn’t happen over night. Wellness is a path that we walk for the rest of our lives but it takes us choosing to make the necessary changes. I have seen this person make many positive changes in their life. If they want me in their life they will go to therapy, learn how to set and respect boundaries, learn how to have a balanced relationship and see me for who I actually am and not for who they want me to be. Until I can see those changes, our relationship will have to be email only.
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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 | Jan 29, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Happy New Year! I don’t believe in making resolutions but I do believe in doing my best every day. So after committing to 7 books a month for the end of 2023, I decided that I might want to change gears to free up more time for other things. However, I still enjoy children’s books. I do think I get a lot out of reading them so for 2024 I will be reading 5 books per month. So without further ado…
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So Say the Little Monkeys by Nancy Van Laan
So Say The Little Monkeys by Nancy Van Laan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
So Say the Little Monkeys by Nancy Van Laan is a fun story based on a story the Indians in Brazil made up to describe the fun-loving Blackmouth Monkeys that live in the tall palm trees along the Rio Negro. Every day the monkeys play in the sun and every night they wish they had made a proper shelter when the rain and wind comes. But each new day, they quickly become distracted from their attempts at work by the adventures to be had.
This musical type book is fun and engaging. The illustrations by Yumi Heo are simple, yet beautiful. This is a great story time book!
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of So Say the Little Monkeys by Nancy Van Laan on Amazon.
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How Raven Stole the Sun by Maria Williams
How Raven Stole the Sun by Maria Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
How Raven Stole the Sun by Maria Williams is a traditional Native American folklore story of the Tlingit Tribe. The story talks about the selfish chief that kept the stars, moon and sun in boxes so all people had to live by campfire. The Raven, known as a trickster, came up with a plan to get the chief to let the stars, moon and sun out of the boxes so everyone could benefit from their light.
The illustrations by Felix Vigil are beautiful. This book was created by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian and this is just one of a series. It offers 4 pages of information and pictures exploring Native culture. I really enjoyed this book.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of How Raven Stole the Sun by Maria Williams on Amazon.
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A Second is a Hiccup by Hazel Hutchins
A Second Is A Hiccup by Hazel Hutchins
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Have you ever had a little one ask you to describe how long time is? A Second is a Hiccup by Hazel Hutchins gives kids a reference to time in ways most kids can understand. This book has a nice rhythm and rhyme and the illustrations by Kady MacDonald Denton are precious.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of A Second is a Hiccup by Hazel Hutchins on Amazon.
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In The Night Garden by Carin Berger
In the Night Garden by Carin Berger
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book! It was relaxing but inspiring. The art seemed like it should be multi-dimensional. I think I will be adding In The Night Garden by Carin Berger to my personal collection.
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of In The Night Garden by Carin Berger on Amazon.
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Is That Wise Pig? by Jan Thomas
Is That Wise, Pig? by Jan Thomas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Mouse, Cow and Pig are making soup but Pig has some funny ideas about some of the ingredients until we get to the end, of course. Is That Wise Pig? by Jan Thomas is an adorable tale that is perfect for little ones. The illustrations are simple and will be easy for additional conversation. The humor will even make this a fun read for adults.
View all my reviews
I got this book from the Longview Public Library. You can get your own copy of IsThat Wise Pig? by Jan Thomas on Amazon.
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I did buy a few of the books I read last year. I can’t wait to share them with my great-nephews. At least one of the books in this review is on my watch list too. How do you find books that you love? Let me know!
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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 | Jan 26, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I have this bag of books that my sister, Jamie Holloway, gave me that says Books for Joy on it. Joy is Jamie’s sister. Jamie lives in the Portland area and Joy lives near me. Both of them do not drive so I have been given the opportunity to read these books and pass them onto Joy. I have had them for quite some time and just began diving into them. They are some great books! I just finished How We Love Matters: A Call to Practice Relentless Racial Reconciliation by Albert Tate and I am so glad I read this book. It spoke to my heart on so many levels. Tate is a great teacher and his viewpoint is not lost on me. Although the main topic is on racism and all that implies, he also talks about politics, religion, activism and being an American.
“Privilege is really hard to see. Whiteness is hard to see. But when we step back and we’re honest about the reality of the impact — not the intent, but the impact — of the whiteness, we find ourselves unexpectedly complicit to this standard. Whether it’s by us thinking less of our ourselves as people of color or you thinking that your white skin hasn’t had any impact on your life — we become complicit.
That man that day realized he had advantages he never even recognized before, and he walked away shocked at the truth of his reality. White Privilege can be so hard to see. It’s not obvious or overt as White Supremacy. But we cannot deny it.” How We Love Matters, Chapter 4
Racism is a packed word that includes lots of actions. White Supremacy is obviously evil and easier to see. White Privilege is more subtle because it has been worked into so many systems to make Whiteness normative. Many of us don’t realize that we have required people of color to adhere to our way of life so White people don’t have to be uncomfortable, while we don’t have to make any adjustments for Black people or people of color. This isn’t fair and explains the lack of trust and honest communication between people groups. I have tried to talk about this topic with some White people and they refuse to see what I have learned just while I have been married to my beautiful mulatto wife.
“The blood on the ground has been ignored for too long, especially here in America, and we must hear it. To truly pursue racial reconciliation, we must go back and get what had been forgotten and omitted. If we are to pursue biblical racial reconciliation, we cannot give in to cancel culture and erase our past and what we’ve experienced. Currently, our culture is looking to completely cancel the conversation about race. There is policy and legislation being developed across the nation that would make it not only impossible but illegal to really talk about race in certain ways. Certain events won’t be taught or spoken about in the classroom. Certain areas of study will be omitted from textbooks and conversations completely. This is a massive epidemic in our nation.” Chapter 6
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“I guess what I’m trying to say is that if we’re going to really love each other and be good siblings, we have to be willing to change our menus, our language, our hearts, our biases. We have to be willing to change, period. And not based on our comfort or convenience but based on what our neighbors and siblings need. We have to see and lighten their burdens, rather than stand by our ‘rights’ and not change, because there’s something so much bigger happening here. God made it abundantly clear that how we love one another matters. It’s the two questions tied together: Where are you and where is your brother? How do you love God and how do you love your neighbor? Bottom line: We have to care.” Chapter 6
Often when issues or protests are made we are told, it isn’t that we are protesting, it is how we are protesting — but silence is not an option:
- Dr Martin Luther King Jr
- Colin Kaepernick
- Black Lives Matter
- Make America Great Again
All of these topics can bring big feelings but we must be able to talk about them and look each other in the eye and not be afraid. In the end our faith in God must be what is more important. Even our politics have become so messy.
“What we need to understand is that the biggest problem with elephants and donkeys is that too many of us are so devoted and committed to something that will never offer up their life for you. They will not usher in the freedom for all that the gospel inevitably does and will do. You cannot give your life to something that won’t die for you, and the elephant won’t, and neither will the donkey. But the lamb? The lamb will die for you, has died for you, and actively does the opposite of what both the elephant and the donkey do, which is divide and degrade. They are not seeking to restore anyone or anything outside of their agenda. They are protecting their lives at all costs, and they are always going to preserve their agenda, their perspective, and their ideology at all costs, even if it requires them to be dishonest about whats actually happening, even if it means they create their own personal truth through their narrow lens and perspective. The elephant and donkey are all about self-preservation and each will hold views that can be antithetical to the gospel. So, while we participate in political parties, our allegiance cannot be to our political party it has to be exclusively and wholly to the lamb of God.” How We Love Matters by Albert Tate, Chapter 7
Jesus didn’t come to change a nation. He came to change our nature. He did not give us the right to weaponize the scripture and disrespect our Father in Heaven. We are to spread light, hope and promise to each other — but a “Christian Nation” relies on power and not Jesus.
God created us all in His image. We are all beautiful, loving, all His, all one and all equal — but whiteness says that’s not true. It creates this internalized racial oppression in Black folks that tells them that if I am not White I am other. Whiteness creates division. The system, all systems have been created by White people, for White people and executed by White people so it has become normalized.
The scriptures walk us through racial divide, political agendas, kingdoms rising against kingdoms, political unrest and corruption. The way we get beyond our own tendencies, preferences and not walk in division is that the church is meant to be a witness and shine God’s light. All marginalized people, whether they are people of color, differently-abled people, people with mental illness and other challenges, queer people — everyone is welcome at God’s table. It is as wide and as long as God’s love is and there is room for everyone.
Agreement is not a requirement. Disagreement means we work harder to love.
I think this book is very important to Christians who want to love each other better. I highly recommend this book to everyone.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of How We Love Matters: A Call to Practice Relentless Racial Reconciliation by Albert Tate on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
How We Love Matters: A Call to Practice Relentless Racial Reconciliation by Albert Tate
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really got a lot out of this book. Tate touched on so many aspects of life and where we can work on growth in a way that was honest but not offensive. I think this book could help so many people work on reconciliation and understanding how we can love each other better.
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 | Jan 23, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Fuel Your Wellness
The article was originally posted on Wellness Works NW on January 16, 2024.
Locally owned by Christen and Willow Ellis, this mother-daughter team has worked to bring their creativity and desire for natural ingredients together to create Crafty Works, LLC, where they sell handmade skin care products and candles. All their products are made in small batches, tested thoroughly and hand-poured using only high quality and eco-friendly ingredients.
Crafty Works, LLC offers the following items:
- Bath bombs
- Bath salts
- Body Balm
- Candles
- Car & Room fresheners
- Gift boxes
- Lip balm
- Shampoo bars
- Shower bombs
- Soaps
- Wax melts
My wife, Karen G Clemenson, and I have known Christen and her family for years. We have also been looking for the right skin care products for even longer. I have very sensitive skin and Karen gets very dry at times too. I have tried many national brands and handmade products. Some were very good but never perfect. (more…)
by Summer D Clemenson | Jan 15, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Joan Ruth Bader was born on March 15, 1933. There were so many girls named Joan in her kindergarten class that her mother suggested she be called Ruth and that is how she is known for more official purposes. Ruth loved to read and write and was encouraged to be independent by her mother. Ruth’s family was not devout but Ruth valued the reverence for justice and learning that was part of her Jewish heritage. She enjoyed studying Hebrew and the history of the Jews. Ruth Bader Ginsburg loved opera. If she could have chosen one talent it would have been to able to have a glorious voice. Ruth’s mother died of cervical cancer a few days before Ruth’s high school graduation. Instead of attending, she stayed at home with her father.
It occurred to me to find a book about Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the day she died. I knew little of her, other than she was the second female Supreme Court Judge ever and she had worked hard to make many positive changes but I didn’t know what they were. I grabbed the first book that I found online and that is how I ended up with My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg in my hands. At the time I didn’t realize that this book was not a memoir but a book of her collected speeches, which is a very different type of read than a biography or autobiography. It did take me several months to make it through this book because I had to take breaks and read other things, but that is not because her life wasn’t amazing!
Ginsburg was hired at Columbia in 1972, “The year of the woman” as the beneficiary of the Nixon administration’s effort to encourage colleges and universities to hire women faculty.
During weeks that court is not in session Supreme Court Justices visit Universities and Law Schools or other lawyers in the United States. During the longer breaks some justices travel to other countries to teach or attend classes. Justice Ginsburg has been to Australia, Austria, Canada, China, England, Egypt, France, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden and Tunisia. Part 1, Chapter 8
Ginsburg was honored to receive the National Council of Jewish Women’s award on March 12, 2001. This award aligns with the belief that people are to improve steadily in our community to be more humane, fair and just. Part 2, Chapter 4
On Sunday June 27, 2010 Ginsburg’s husband of 56 years, Martin Ginsburg, died. The same month Ginsburg became the senior Justice among the liberal Supreme Court members.
These are just a few of the numerous accomplishments of an outstanding woman. Her goal was to make a more equal world for women, which she did, but she also worked to make laws equal for men that weren’t so before she got to them. She was a passionate, intelligent and energetic woman that worked longer at the Supreme Court than anyone before her. I plan to reread this book and also look for other books about her. She is truly a remarkable person. I highly recommend this book.
You can get your own copy of My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a revolutionary woman that not only fought for equal rights for woman but all people. She was energetic, intelligent and passionate about the law. This book was not an easy read, but the accomplishments of Ginsburg’s life were extraordinary and so is 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.
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