Search This Blog

Monday, August 11, 2014

The Trail

I have always enjoyed parables, specifically the ones recorded in scripture, but there are a few authors that take a topic and make a parable of it and it is a joy to read. Ed Underwood did just that with his latest book "The Trail, A Tale about Discovering God's Will".
Ed uses a character by the name of Sam to teach 8 principles to a couple, Matt and Brenda, while leading them through the beautiful Sierras. Matt and Brenda are trying to discover God's will regarding a job change but God uses Sam to help this couple discover a whole lot more, things that will effect their marriage in the days ahead. The author does a delightful job at describing the surroundings to the point you can almost hear the birds as they make their way through the forest to the clearings. Everything changes when a lightning strike ignites the dry terrain and leaves the threesome scrambling for their very lives.
A very practical book, and an easy read. It started off a bit slow as you meet the characters and get to know them but after the first couple of chapters I couldn't put the book down. It was well worth the time and the principles are very practical in everyday life. One of my favorite new lines is :"Gods will is a flashlight not a crystal ball, walk to the edge of the darkness and wait".
I received my copy of The Trail for free from Tyndale House Publishers for an honest review.

Sunday, August 3, 2014

Soda Jerk?

Now that's a term from the past. In fact I would be willing to guess that most of todays younger generation would have no clue what I am referring to.
Thanks to my good friends at Blogging for Books I now have a better understanding of that term as well as a bunch of recipes to make the syrups and drinks that they used to enjoy. I am referring of course to the new book, the SODA FOUNTAIN by Gia Giasullo and Peter Freeman.
This book is awesome and has original recipes from the fountains in the old drugstores to make floats, sundaes, egg creams, and more. This book also gives you the recipes for making the syrups and sundae toppings among other things, so that when you go to create your masterpiece you can do it like the pros. This book is packed full of pictures, history and to be quite frank with you, tasty fun.
My family and I spent the evening trying out some of these recipes and let me tell you, what a blast it was. The only thing missing was the jukebox. It was a raging success and everyone enjoyed their treat. The one drawback is I neglected to check out the ingredients and so when you pick up your copy of this book be sure to pick up some seltzer water. Pick up a copy of this book and plan a family night, its sure to bring you closer in a fun way. I received this book for free from Blogging for books for my review.
Till next time enjoy your treat.
P.M.