I love to read. Christian fiction are my favorite books, and Amish are right up there in a category of most read. A culture of loving and caring for family and others deeply interests me, especially when coupled with a deep faith and respect for God. Wanda Brunstetter is one of the best selling authors of Amish books. She writes fiction, devotionals, children’s, and cookbooks in that genre as well as others.
“The Celebration” is the third book in the Amish Cooking Class Series by author Brunstetter. If you have not read the first two books, “The Seeker” and “The Blessing”, it is not a problem. However, those were excellent books, too. Each book in this exceptional series could be read alone or together for even more enjoyment.
Heidi Troyer is the teacher of the cooking classes. This Amish woman mixes together recipes, scripture, and prayer to help her students improve their cooking skills and daily lives. In this book, she and her husband Lyle have become foster parents to a sister and brother, Marsha and Randy. They lost their parents in an accident and are very shy. The Troyers love and care for these two children as if they were their own flesh and blood. With this deep love for the kids, they have decided to pursue adopting them.
Cooking classes for children begin and we visited some old friends from past books and are introduced to many more characters. It took time for me to keep them all straight. Not only were there students (children), but there were also parents. Each family had individual issues and needed help that Heidi intended to supply.
Author Brunstetter has a lovely writing style. Her characters become friends and I want to have a cup of tea with some of them. The dialog sounds realistic and flows effortlessly. Descriptions take me straight from my Englisch kitchen into Heidi’s and I can almost smell her muffins baking. The book is well written and takes on modern day issues. There are life lessons to be learned, especially to have faith and trust in God. It is a heartwarming read, full of emotion and very touching.
The Amish way of life intrigues me although I doubt seriously if I could give up electricity. They seem so kind, down to earth, and to put others first, especially family. I love children, cooking, and God. Christian fiction that includes recipes is a big bonus. Obviously this book hit many of my favorite things. I highly recommend it and give it a 5 star rating. It is delightful.
Did you notice today is a twofer? The second book is the Amish Cooking Class Cookbook. Let me just say…..amazing! This is a cookbook to be read and used. Recipes compiled are from the three novels and various Amish women. Readers will find a section on advice or tips from Amish cooks. The recipes are divided and subdivided into normal cookbook categories. Look for the Recipes for Kids section. It is a nice one, and kiddos will enjoy it.
Descriptions of the cast of characters from the cooking classes and pictures of the book covers are in the book. Scripture is sprinkled throughout which is a treasure. The pictures are vivid and beautiful. It is spiral bound so it will open up flat on your counter making it easier to follow along when mixing and stirring. This is a cookbook for cooks, those just learning to cook, and those that like to read cookbooks. It will make a delightful gift for so many people. Don’t forget to get one for yourself. Another 5 star book that I highly recommend to you.
If I am going to take counsel, it needs to be credible, Biblically based, and from someone who prays.
Later all over Facebook she read what a horrible mother she was. There were even requests for clothes donations. More judging without understanding. If they would just switch shoes with her for one day.
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Often I will be given other to add to my library, like this one. “Devotions for the Hungry Heart” is the first book that I have read by author Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, but I am certain it will not be my last. I fell in love with this 20 week devotional immediately and devoured it within a few days. (I know! I couldn’t help myself.) This sweet 272 page hardcover book is published by Shiloh Press. The padded cover is inviting and feels nice to the touch. There are glossy full color pictures which adorn the center which are beautiful and have yummy recipes. I love recipes in books.
or Sister in Christ over a cup of coffee. One that just gets you. I found the author to be witty, humorous, God glorifying, encouraging, approachable and transparent. She taught me what being hungry for Jesus meant. Dividing that up into six topics: Sharing, Needing, Celebrating, Praying, Surrendering and Being Intentional, the author explained in her sweet Southern style. I have continued pondering them long after finishing her book. Have you ever thought what an example of being hungry for more Jesus liked like? Think about it a minute. Better yet, just get this book.
That’s right, your very own word that offers encouragement or inspiration for the year. Maybe He will give you more than just one. Whatever it is you need, He will give.
Do you have expectations for 2018 or yourself? A new year is wonderful. It’s like getting a blank piece of paper to begin a new chapter in your story. Exciting, isn’t it?!
On it is usually one item that seems greater than any of the others. If you have a prayer list you know the one I mean. It is the one you give over to Jesus to handle and take to the Father. Then later that day you start fretting over it again and try to tell Him how to work it out. (How silly!) You pick it back up and cannot seem to give it away. The problem is so big and seems unsolvable. Oh, but I have great news for you. God is bigger and more powerful than anything. Period. He is also in the business of miracles.
As it is eaten up by flames and disintegrated, I give thanks that the problem is out of my hands and into His. I have totally surrendered it. He is doing what needs done according to His perfect will. Before my prayer ends the paper has turned to ashes, tears stream down my cheeks, and my worry has vanished. I am at peace.
Abba's Prayer Warrior Princess 