As New Year Rolls Around, Peter Lumpkins' 'Alcohol Today' Still Relevant

Should believers bring on the booze? Is the moderate use of alcohol for recreational purposes a way Christians can reach today’s culture? Some believers in this postmodern era of indulgence say an attack on the prevalence of social drinking amounts to legalism worthy of the Pharisees.

Dealing with one of the most debated issues in Christendom today, Peter Lumpkins explores the various views on drinking beverage alcohol. In Alcohol Today: Abstinence in an Age of Indulgence, he dissects them with a surgeon's precision and then stitches them together to form a devastating argument against any recreational use of this mind-altering drug.

As seen in this recent article by the Associated Baptist Press, the topic is still a controversial one. You can read more about Peter and his book at Hannibal's website or at the author's site, Alcohol Today.

More Christmas Gift Ideas--Only Two Weeks Left!

For the Intellectual
Created to be Spiritual and Jesus Restores True Spirituality by Joe Tarry
In a conversational tone, Joe takes readers through first the Old Testament and, in his second book in the series, the New Testament, showing how Satan tries to thwart God's plan for His people.

Evolution: How a Theory Made a Monkey Out of Man by Sam McCormick
After years of believing evolution fit into his biblical views, Sam was introduced to surprising information that sparked a three-year exhaustive study of the theories of evolution and six-day creation. He has compiled his findings in this easy-to-read book.

My Professor Says the Bible is a Myth by Thomas B. Tribelhorn
This explosive book exposes the claims against the Bible as a gross distortion of the evidence. Dr. Tribelhorn brings a lifetime of experience and intensive study in Israel to bring the reader face-to-face with the real facts.

For the History Buff
Historical Atlas of Texas Methodism by William Carson Hardt and John Wesley Hardt
This is a superb exposition of how the Methodist faith came to Texas and how that faith shaped—and was shaped by—historic movements in the Lone State State and nation.

Manley Beasley: Man of Faith -- Instrument of Power by Ron Owens
From intensive care units to the pulpits of America and beyond, Brother Manley, as he was known to the thousands of lives he touched, goes on living through the testimonies and teachings found in this book that some are saying is destined to become a classic.

For the Fiction Fanatic
The Daughter of No One by Viola Palmer
This story is the rapidly moving fiction book of a young girl living on the border of Nicaragua and Honduras.

When the Heart Soars Free by Kay Moore
A storybook romance blooms when two ski experts meet in a picturesque mountain wonderland.

A Father's Betrayal by Ashley Williams
He used to call me his son. Now he calls me his prisoner. Alone . . . Betrayed . . . Forgotten . . . But faith in God never can be broken. Follow this fictional story.



For the Poetry-Lover
So by Martha Bible Smith
Even at 93 years of age Martha Bible Smith is not afraid to delve into "the life of the mind". In this volume-her second book of poetry to be published-Smith poignantly and profoundly explores themes of family, friends, memories, aging, and even current events.

For the Mission-Minded
On the Go for the Lord by William D. Bailey
Dr. Bailey's travels have taken him literally around the world. In this, his third volume, Dr. Bailey brings his travels up to date as of late 2010.

Misadventures in Travel: A Missionary's Experience in Brazil by Paula Edwards
Assigned as itinerant mappers, Van and Paula were to travel the Brazilian coastline and identify fishing villages that needed churches planted there. Nothing could have prepared them for the adventure that followed.

No Retreat--No Regrets by Jamie and Lea Peters
For Jamie and Lea Peters the overwhelming passion that seizes them day-in and day-out is for the continent of Africa and the souls there that do not know Jesus as Savior.


Still looking for other ideas? Check these out here.

Still Looking for Christmas Gift Ideas?

Here are a few ideas to get started on your Christmas list. Check back early next week for additional suggestions.

For Kids
Bo Peep's Prize by Tammy Gaynier Steeples
Will Holly get her costume together in time for her school's Horse Show?

The Little Brown-Haired Girl and The Secret Tree Club by Kay Moore
When the Little Brown-Haired Girl and her neighborhood friends decide to form a "Secret-Tree Club", they have no idea that they are about to uncover the biggest news on the block!

See more children's books...

For the Fitness-Guru
Fit to Serve by Stephanie Dean
A six-week Bible study by Christian health expert and dietitian Stephanie Dean focuses on helping each individual member of the Body of Christ to function at optimum capacity, which means each person strives to be spiritually and physically fit to serve.

See more books on life issues...

For the Busy Mom or Wife
Pace Yourself: 365 Devotions from the Daily Grind by Rebekkah Trittipoe
An ultra-marathon runner, Rebekkah includes daily devotions to inspire, encourage, and help us see God's revelations in the mundane things of life.

See more Bible Studies...

Visit our website to browse for even more ideas.

Are You Struggling?

Life is full of limitations--sickness, pain, disease. Most people never question the existence of these things in our lives. Why? They simply assume that these limitations are permanent parts of the human experience and that the only way to deal with them is to make the best of them.

The world tells us that we can't change things that it says are meant to be.

The world blinds us with its deception and deceit to keep us from the Truth.

The so-called "self-help approach" offers many futile solutions that leave us weary, exhausted, and utterly defeated. Clearly, a different approach--a second opinion--is needed in the matter.

In his book Get a Second Opinion, author and minister T.C. Morgan explores how God's Word can transform believers into the bold creations that they originally were designed to be. He encourages us to open our eyes, seek the Truth, and refuse to let this world remove all of our spiritual senses and recklessly operate in us.

If you're struggling with the troubles and trials of this world, heed the words of T.C. Morgan and get a second opinion from God's Word!

T.C. Morgan is the senior pastor and founder of Potter's Wheel Ministries. He has a heart to see God's people use the power of God's Word to help them change inside themselves. Therefore, he has devoted his life to lead by example. Through his life-changing messages, he reveals to believers the practical side of the Gospel that demonstrates how much God truly loves us. Through the many applicable vehicles he offers and through his hands-on style of ministry, Pastor Tommy desires to empower your life for success. He is also a musician, writer, artist, and a family man who loves his Lord.

Blog Tour for The Marvel of It All

Thanks to a wonderful group of bloggers, Joe and Leona Tarry's book The Marvel of It All, was reviewed and discussed earlier this week in a blog tour. Here are links to a few of these blogs--more to come soon! Please check out these links and let them know what you think of the book!

Abundantly Blessed
Vic's Media Room
Growing for Christ
The Legacy of a Writer
Farming on Faith
Mocha with Linda
Adventures in Unsell Land
Blah Blah Reviews

In The Marvel of It All, Joe and Leona Tarry look back on 36 years of experiences that have included broken-down cars, near-fatal traffic accidents, serious illnesses, the near-death of a child, prolonged separation from loved ones, and rebuffed efforts at presenting the gospel. As astounding as it seems, their end conclusion is to truly marvel at God’s goodness because of His provision for them during more than three-and-a-half decades of serving God as career missionaries in Brazil.

Interested in Writing a Novel?

If so, you may be interested to know this month is National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). The goal of the 30-day event is for each person to write a 50,000-word novel by the end of the month. The official website purports that the goal is for quantity, not quality, to help people get past the challenge of actually getting words down on paper (or computer screen, whatever happens to be the case).

The website does offer a warning to its "kamikaze" style of writing: "Make no mistake: You will be writing a lot of crap. And that's a good thing. By forcing yourself to write so intensely, you are giving yourself permission to make mistakes. To forgo the endless tweaking and editing and just create. To build without tearing down."

The NaNoWriMo website offers a place to sign up to participate (for free, of course) in the challenge and has forums and blogs to keep you connected to other writers taking the same challenge.

Hannibal Books has no connection to NaNoWriMo, but we found this idea interesting--and we love to encourage people to write! If you participate in this challenge, let us know. We'd love to hear about your progress.

Grace Transforms Ex-Con, Former Prostitute into Mission Service Corps Volunteer

Iris Urrey was raised in a middle-class Christian home, but she was rebellious almost from the start. Running away at the age of thirteen, she became involved with drugs and prostitution, and at seventeen was arrested for armed robbery. Once released from prison, she continued down a path of self-destruction. From numerous abortions to using heroin, to managing a topless bar, Iris turned from God's calling again and again.

But God, who in eternity past had devised a plan for this "incorrigible" rebel, didn't give up on Iris. He had work for her to do, and would one day turn this "incorrigible" rebel into one of His beautiful trophies of grace.

This is more than a tale of grace and redemption, however. God has used Iris's experiences to reach countless people, from top military personnel at NATO to German prostitutes. Along the way, well-meaning fellow believers have had trouble accepting some of the unconventional approaches of this Southern Baptist North American Mission Board's longest-serving Mission Service Corps volunteer.

"Don't you get angry with me and try to prove you're a tough guy," she tells the ex-prisoner on the other end of the phone line--who later received Jesus as his Savior and becomes her husband. "If you can tell me that you're retarded, you can memorize a scripture verse," she says on another occasion to the escaped sanatorium inmate who insists she is too mentally disabled to learn, but finds new confidence when she is saved. Learn about Iris's remarkable walk with God as she continues to minister to people all over the world. But be ready: This book may compel you to take action yourself.

Ron Owens--born in Canada, son of missionary parents to Europe--has multifaceted ministries. These include teaching, preaching, and music ministry in North America and beyond. He has authored other books and articles and has composed, recorded, and had published many songs in collaboration with his wife, Patricia. The Owens have one son, Jeff, a daughter-in-law, Jessica, and two grandson, Ethan and Evan.

Oh, how I love this woman--her story, her faith, are such a testimony of God's thorough work of redemption. You'll want to read and pass on Iris: Trophy of Grace, then have her come and personally share her story. --Kay Arthur, Precept Ministries International

Iris Blue's life is the most inspiring story that could be told. Ron Owens has captured the drama of this miracle in compelling style.--Jimmy Draper, President Emeritus, LifeWay Christian Resources

Prayer is Essential for Godly Parenting

The most important parenting skill to hone is prayer. Prayer has no boundaries. It is bound neither by time nor geography. The power of prayer can reach across the miles and can extend into the future.

In Legacy of Prayer, Author Jennifer Kennedy Dean offers principles for praying for our children, our grandchildren, and our descendants. In candid descriptions of her own life as the beneficiary of generations of prayer, she acknowledges that prayer for our children will not insure a smooth road but instead will insure that " . . . nothing will happen to our children that God cannot use as the raw material from which to create a vessel for His mercy." With characteristically clear and precise writing, she leads us into the Scripture to discover the power of prayer that reaches into the lives of generations not yet born.

Jennifer Kennedy Dean is executive director of The Praying Life Foundation and is a respected author and speaker. She is the author of numerous books, studies, and magazines articles specializing in prayer and spiritual formation. Her book, Heart's Cry, has been named National Day of Prayer's recommended resource. Her bestselling book, Living a Praying Life, has been called a flagship work on prayer. In 2005, Jennifer was widowed after 26 years of marriage to Wayne Dean, her partner in both life and ministry. They are the parents of three grown sons. Jennifer makes her home in Marion, KY.

What If Your Professor Says the Bible Isn't True?

The facts your college professor doesn't want you to know . . .

Record numbers of high school and college students are giving up on God and the Christian faith, unable to defend their faith against the onslaught of academic 'facts' from their instructors that 'prove' there is no evidence to support the historical accuracy of the Bible.

This explosive book--My Professor Says the Bible is a Myth--exposes the claims against the Bible as a gross distortion of the evidence. Dr. Tom Tribelhorn brings a lifetime of experience and intensive study in Israel to bring students and their parents face-to-face with the real facts. You'll be surprised to learn that some of the strongest advocates of the Bible's historical accuracy are not Christians -- but agnostic scholars who allow the archaeological evidence to speak for itself.

Tribelhorn contends that God never intended for faith to be 'blind' ... but to include logical reasoning and historical evidence as part of the equation. The compelling defense he presents here has the power to change your life -- and, if you already have doubts, to salvage your faith.

Tom Tribelhorn is academic dean and chairs the doctoral studies program at St. Petersburg Theological Seminary. He holds a Ph.D. (cum laude) in Judaic Studies from the Netzer David International Yeshiva, which included extensive primary research in Israel; a Doctor of Ministry in Judaeo-Christian studies from Jerusalem University College (Israel); an M.Ed. from William Patterson University; and a B.A. in Bible from Northeastern Bible College. He has led and co-led numerous tours to Israel, Egypt, and Jordan.

93-Year-Old Releases Poetry About Life, Love, & Faith

Even at 93 years of age Martha Bible Smith is not afraid to delve into "the life of the mind". She ponders life's mysteries, pours her heart out through verse, and with grace and depth faces the aging process. In this volume, So,--her second book of poetry to be published--Smith poignantly and profoundly explores themes of family, friends, memories, aging, and even current events. Divided into four sections (So, Sew, Sow, and Soak), each grouping reflects Smith's fervor for life, her love of family and friends, and her deep faith in God.

Pride in being a Southerner is readily apparent in this lady born in Tennessee and reared in Mississippi. A graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi and Southern Methodist University, for 31 years Martha was a teacher and counselor. For 11 years she was an entrepreneur of antique jewelry on the square in Historic Downtown Garland, TX. She is a mother of two sons, a grandmother of four, and a great-grandmother of two. Her hobbies are reading, writing, and researching. The fourth "r" is reminiscing. Her late husband was Jasper C. Smith, jewelry in Dallas and Washington, D.C. Martha is 93 years young.

Achieving Life to the Fullest

God created us to live life to the fullest--to experience fulfillment, satisfaction, happiness, and meaningful relationships. Unfortunately doing this is not a reality for many people. Our past (sin, wounds, abuse, rejection, etc.) and our present (depression, addictions, codependent relationships, shame, guilt, etc.) hinder our ability to really live!

In John 10:10 Jesus says that He came to give us life--life to the fullest! He makes life a possibility for everyone, because He paid for all of our past and present problems. We have been given the power to choose life and to experience it every day . . . the life we were created to live! Ten Life Choices by Bob Perdue (CrossHouse Publishing) highlights 10 specific and practical choices that lead us to the life we were always meant to live.

Pastor Bob Perdue currently serves as senior pastor of Grace Life Community Church in Bristow, VA. Bob is chairman for the board of Regeneration Ministries in Baltimore/Northern Virginia, a member of the board of Grace Ministries, a member of the Association of Exchanged Life Ministries and is also the president of Life Now Ministries. Bob and his wife, Terri, have been married for more than 30 years and have five children.

Missionary Couple Follows God Even in Difficult Circumstances

Watching your child nearly die in your arms, experiencing illness before even arriving at your destination, and facing the difficulties of learning a new language would be enough for most people to question whether God really had called them to serve in a foreign country.

But not Joe and Leona Tarry. They knew that moving with three young children to Brazil to serve as career missionaries was exactly what they were supposed to do. In The Marvel of It All: God’s faithfulness as one couple serves Christ for more than three decades in Brazil, the Tarrys expound on their daily activities and inner thoughts of living in the states of Minas Gerais and Sao Paulo in southern Brazil.

Through the difficulties of starting new churches, longing for friends and family back home, learning about a new culture, dealing with customs officials, and enduring car trouble, Joe and Leona saw the protection and encouragement that only God can give. Woven among Satan’s attempts to thwart God’s work in Brazil, the Tarrys in their new book humbly document time after time when God provided just what they needed. Their conversational tone and side-by-side commentary on the harrowing situations allow the reader unique insight into the challenging, but rewarding lives of missionaries.

“This book never is boring. Well-documented and told with courage, the story of the Tarry family is sublime. Their lives, their children, and their labor have been blessings to countless souls that only eternity can measure,” write Jesse and Wilma Kidd, emeritus Southern Baptist Convention missionaries to Brazil.

Joe E. Tarry was born near Lovington, NM, and his wife, Leona, was born in Fort Sumner, NM, but considers Portales, NM, to be her hometown. Joe graduated with a double major and received a bachelor of arts in religion and history from Eastern New Mexico University and a master of divinity from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. Leona also attended Eastern New Mexico University, during which she worked at the Portales Daily News; she then received a certificate from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary.

Joe and Leona are retired missionaries and live in Ruidoso, NM. Joe has written numerous books, including, Did Paul Approve of the Tongues Spoken in Corinth?, Created to be Spiritual: Understanding God’s daily battle with Satan for the hearts and minds of His people, and Jesus Restores True Spirituality: Understanding Satan’s Subtle Schemes to Hamper the Testimony of Christ’s People. This new book, The Marvel of It All, is Joe and Leona’s first co-authored book.

What Would Jesus Do?

In the classic In His Steps by Charles Sheldon some Christian group members make this motto their guide for daily living. Their lives are set aglow for Christ.

But that was in 1890! Would the same commitment work today? Another group of Christians decides to try it.

Heather, a homemaker, obsessed by her beautiful home, is the central character whose experiences and decisions interweave with those of the other members. A professional baseball player and his pregnant wife; an ambitious car dealer; a beautiful, withdrawn matron in a home for adults who are mentally challenged; a doctor and his sensitive wife; and a brilliant computer expert and his librarian spouse all face inner frustrations and outside obstructions to fully yielding their lives to Christ. Prestige, money, possessions, past sorrows, and personal time have to be sacrificed or at least put in second place.

Only then will they gain the spiritual help, joy, and satisfaction God is willing and waiting to give those who allow Jesus to truly live His life through them.

* * * * * * * *

Marti Hefley, a prolific freelance writer, was graduated from New Orleans Baptist Seminary and is the author of Strictly Feminine. She has co-authored numerous books including The Liberated Palestinian, Dawn over Amazonia, God's Tribesman, and Uncle Cam. As a 16-year-old she read In His Steps and thought, "Somebody ought to write a version for today." In His Steps Today is the fulfillment of that comment. In His Steps Today by Charles Sheldon some Christian group members make this motto--What Would Jesus Do?-- their guide for daily living. Their lives are set aglow for Christ. is a re-release of a highly popular book by Hannibal Books co-founder Marti Hefley. The original was released in 1976.

Chicago Tribune Tells Missionary Kid's Story

Mary Anne Phemister grew up in China, Hong Kong, and Vietnam as the daughter of a missionary couple. While she applauds her parents efforts in following Christ's leading to spread the Gospel, she did experience times in her life that were difficult and left her with a need to forgive. In her book, Lessons from a Broken Chopstick, Mary Anne details her childhood and how she has learned to deal with various issues she's experienced.

A wonderful article in the Chicago Tribune by Vicky Edwards gives a glimpse into the book and Mary Anne's life.

No Turning Back for These Servants

Many American couples today might define their all-consuming passion as the acquisition of things, the pursuit of the good life, the desire to possess more and more. For Jamie and Lea Peters the overwhelming passion that seizes them day-in and day-out is for the continent of Africa and the souls there that do not know Jesus as Savior. The "good life" the Peters pursue is the vision of 1,000 churches to be established on the continent.

As missionaries for nearly two-and-a-half decades the Peters have given themselves without reservation, even when their call has required them and their young children to live through violence that ultimately would kill 300,000 Burundians. When times were tough and even the U.S. embassy was strongly recommending that they evacuate, the Peters clung tight to their "no-exit strategy"-a strategy that reflected their deep sense of calling and desire to do God's will.

In No Retreat-No Regrets, Jamie and Lea share their story-an infectious, well-told account of their time in Africa. In their back-and-forth style that is both transparent and entertaining, the Peters openly relate the challenges of daily life in Africa, the difficult tasks of church planting and caring for the poor, as well as their personal struggles with illness, homesickness, and rearing American children overseas. Yet instead of counting the cost, Jamie and Lea believe they are the privileged ones-blessed to live at the front line of what God is doing on the earth. As Jamie says, "A life lived outside the will of God is a life not lived at all."

Let Jamie and Lea's captivating description of their journey-not just written but lived-motivate you to do God's will in whatever harvest field you are planted and to follow their example and live your life without retreat and without regret.

Imperfect People CAN Serve God

A yearning that could not be denied--a yearning to answer God's call . . .

An earlier call to missions never was far from Helen Spaulding's thoughts, but life-her longtime service as a professional nurse, marriage, and childrearing-had put Helen's call on hold for a season. Ultimately empty-nested but believing she had many good years left, Helen, alongside husband Roger, found that her passion to serve God overseas was as fresh as it had been in her youth. But would these retirees know what to do when they reached foreign shores?
Go If You Must-Even If You Are Not Perfect demonstrates how God can use imperfect humans-many who feel led to pursue such a career yet believe they might not "qualify"-and enables those He calls to do His work in His power. By tracing Helen's service-all of which occurred after she was 52 years of age-the book illustrates the joys and sorrows, successes and failures, frustrations and "Wow!" moments in daily missions work.
This book, the first of three in Helen's Go If You Must series, traces her years as a Peace Corps volunteer in Liberia, a nurse in a Somali refugee camp, and a worker on short-term mission trips to Honduras and Guatemala. Written in the third person so that it reads like a novel, Helen's absorbing, informative account pulls the reader into the life of a missionary in hopes of drawing those the Lord is touching to respond to His call.

Blogger Says "Misadventures in Travel" 'Changes the Trend' of Missions Books

Many thanks to these bloggers (and the ones with links in this post from Monday) for posting their honest reviews of Misadventures in Travel by Paula Edwards.

Reflections in the Window
Our Family's Adventures
Adventures in McQuill-Land
Christy's Book Blog
A Book Lover
Growing for Christ
Blogs of Books

"Misadventures in Travel" Featured on Numerous Blogs

Paula Edwards' new book, Misadventures in Travel: A Missionary's Experience in Brazil, is featured on numerous blogs today. Start out browsing these posts and watch for another list later!

Creative Madness Mama
Adventures in Unsell Land
Bookfoolery and Babble
ElCloud Homeschool
Window to My World
Black 'n Gold Girl's Book Spot

Little Brown-Haired Girl with big imagination subject of new children's book

When the Little Brown-Haired Girl and her neighborhood buddies decide to form a "Secret-Tree Club", they have no idea that they are about to uncover the biggest news on the block!

In this first book of the Little Brown-Haired Girl series, the Little Brown-Haired Girl uses her big imagination to transform a climbing tree into a mailbox. At first the children exchange random messages back-and-forth as they hide them in the branches of the "secret tree".

One day, though, the Little Brown-Haired Girl finds in the tree a special note--one that contains important news that will change the neighborhood. Will she be able to keep the secret found in the secret tree? Or will she break the trust of the Secret-Tree Club?

The Little Brown-Haired Girl and The Secret-Tree Club is Kay Moore's first children's book and features stories of events that happened in her "growing-up" neighborhood, in which she is privileged to live even now. The full-color paperback is illustrated by Nathaniel Platts.

Late-in-Life Couple Left Comforts of Home for Adventures in Brazil

Most people in their 50s wouldn’t even think of moving to a remote area of a foreign country with only minimal language skills. Retirement, relaxation, and enjoying grandchildren would be on most people’s minds.

However, Van and Paula Edwards left the comforts of their home, their church, and their culture and set out on a missionary adventure in Brazil, as described in the new book, Misadventures in Travel: A Misadventures in Travel.

The book, by Paula Edwards, is a collection of stories from her and her husband’s three years in Brazil, during which they studied the language, traveled the coastline in search of villages that needed a Baptist church, and helped plant churches in Minas Gerais.

Misadventures in Travel describes an intriguing journey as the Edwardses attempt to be God’s ambassadors in a foreign country with only a rudimentary understanding of the language and a lone map book as their guide. Naturally, the experience is one of adventure, misadventure, and a few laughs along the way. From numerous bureaucratic snafus to hair-raising traffic to countless scary vehicle breakdowns, Paula and Van press on to fulfill what God had called them to do.

Their escapades weren’t always challenging. They encountered numerous gracious Brazilians whose hospitality knew no bounds. Often, Van and Paula stumbled upon surprisingly pleasant pousadas (lodging) and came across fellow believers whose unbridled joy in the Lord motivated this American couple to push on so all Brazilians in these remote areas might know Jesus.

Paula’s warm humor and unrelenting optimism will amuse readers, while her candid honesty will give a glimpse into real missionary life.

Paula Edwards, a native of the piney hills of north Louisiana, received her bachelor's and master's degrees in music from Louisiana Tech University. Besides having served God on the mission field, Paula also has been a schoolteacher and enjoys riding and training horses. She and her husband, Van, are parents of two grown daughters. The Edwardses live in North Louisiana, in which Van serves as pastor.

Proud of Me?

When Brad Russell and his wife, Robin, welcomed their first child, Tyler, into the world, they had no idea of what lay ahead for them as well as for their son.

Robin first spotted the telltale signs of the problem. Then the first doctor the Russells consulted offered a frightening diagnosis: cerebral palsy with a high probability that Tyler would never walk nor speak. Thus began a life course that neither Brad nor Robin ever expected nor had prepared themselves to face. Realizing their helplessness and hopelessness the Russells turned to the only source of strength they knew: God.

Brad and Robin decided early on that they would love Tyler as much as any parent could and would rear him the best way they knew how. Tyler's story, told through the loving eyes of his father, succinctly addresses the problems families of special-needs children face. In a surprising twist, Brad Russell tells all the ways Tyler exemplifies a true Christian spirit and characteristics and is an inspiration to him as well as to other family members.

In Proud of Me? you will cry with the Russells, laugh with them, and glimpse into a world different yet so very special.

Hannibal Author Featured in Hometown Paper

After an interview with Kim Everett, editor at The Garland Texan, Kay Moore was featured in her hometown newspaper yesterday. The article discusses her two most recent books, Way Back in the Country and Way Back in the Country Garden, and her reasons for writing down these family stories and recipes.

Read the article here on The Garland Texan's website.

Author Kay Moore Details Her Real Motive for Holding This Past Weekend's Book Signing in Cooper, TX

You can read all of Kay Moore's blog post at The Newfangled Country Gardener.

Here's a glimpse into the post:

OK, I'll admit it. I had an ulterior motive.

Naturally, I scheduled my book-signing this past weekend in Delta County because I needed to launch my book there--the setting for Way Back in the Country Garden--the place in which the main characters, The Three Little Red-Haired Miller Girls, grew up.

Eight years ago, when I launched my first book, Way Back in the Country, the prequel to the new one, we had a fantastic party on the Cooper square at a gift shop there. It was a fitting way to kick off my new book in the locale in which the book's events happened. Of course we'd want to do it all over again in 2010 with the birth of the new title.

Debbie Grider and the folks at The Prairie Rose Flowers & Gifts, Cooper's dynamite new shop right in front of the Delta County Courthouse, were thrilled to be hosts for the 2010 launch. On Saturday they extended wonderful hospitality and gave us a great place to serve cookies made from recipes out of the new book (and Sparkling Holiday Punch from Way Back in the Country).

But truthfully, my sub-reason for heading to Cooper this pa st weekend went well beyond that of any book promotion...

To find out her real reason for going to Cooper, read her blog at The Newfangled Country Gardener. In the meantime, check out these photos from her book signing, which include both family and friends who came out to support her.

Kay Moore's Interview on Arizona Midday

If you were in Arizona on June 25, you might have caught a glimpse of Hannibal author Kay Moore on Arizona Midday. If you missed it, you can watch her segment here. During the interview, Kay discusses why gardening is so popular, mentions her new book Way Back in the Country Garden, and prepares the Tangy Orange and Pecan Salad recipe from her book.

*Video copyright of Arizona Midday

Author Kay Wheeler Moore to Visit Garland, TX Tomorrow

Don't miss author Kay Wheeler Moore and her delicious cookies tomorrow, July 3, at the Generator Coffee shop in Garland, TX, from 10am-1pm. The shop is located at 107 N. 6th Street, Garland, TX 75040. Call 972-494-9449 for details.

Read Reviews of "Way Back in the Country Garden"

Kay Wheeler Moore and her new book Way Back in the Country Garden are featured on a blog tour today. Please visit the following websites to read reviews of the book as well as the first chapter.

A Peek at My Bookshelf
Creative Madness Mama
Carlybird's Home
Just One More Paragraph
Dragonflies 'n Daydreams
This Mom's Delight
PPreacher's Wife's Book Reviews
This That and the Other
Pam's Personal Reflections
Quintessentially Quilly
Our Family's Adventures
Window to My World
Eccentric Eclectic Woman
Living for God
A Glimpse of Our Life
Sunny Island Breezes
Cafe Lily
The Knowlton Nest

Devotions to Help With the Daily Grind

Rebekah Trittipoe is one who knows what "going the distance" means. This committed Christian runs--and survives--ultra marathons, which find her on jaunts of up to 100-miles at a time. Amidst sometimes unthinkable conditions Rebekah--determined to meet her goal--grinds on.

As with her extreme running, Rebekah's dedication to God's Word is steadfast and focused. Just as she encourages fellow runners to keep their eyes open to the beauty around them during a trek through challenging terrain, Rebekah inspires other believers to look for God's revelation not so much in theological treatises but in the mundane things of life--watching a simple sunrise, pulling weeds, taking in orphaned kittens, or hauling rocks for a backyard path.

Her daily devotions (366 of them, to encompass leap year) include an inspirational story, a Scripture, and a daily challenge. She offers these with the mere purpose of helping each of us make our way through the daily grind--whether that be navigating the nettle-fraught mountainside or sitting at a desk slogging our way through a work day.

Kay Moore Featured in Well-Known Sue Watkins' Column

In an always-well-written column, longtime Garland resident Sue Watkins (pictured at right) details the goings-on of the area and the people. In her recent post to the NeighborsGo.com website, Sue discussed Kay's new book, Way Back in the Country Garden. Read her post at the NeighborsGo site.

Way Back in the Country Garden, in the days of long ago, families decided what was for supper by dispatching a youngster out to the family patch of dirt to see what was fresh and ready for pickin’.

The Three Red-Haired Miller Girls, who grew up with modest means, nevertheless believed they were rich because the garden’s yield was so plentiful and because their creative Mama wielded her kitchen magic to make a meal fit for royalty.

Introduced in Kay Moore’s previous book, Way Back in the Country, the lively Miller Girls again draw readers into their growing-up world in farm-rich Delta County, TX, where a stringent economic era–not unlike today’s tight times–saw people turn to the earth to put food on the table for their loved ones.

With home gardening surging in popularity as frugal people become more resourceful, this six-generation recipe collection and accompanying lore will inspire others to cook this garden-fresh way and ideally preserve their own family food stories as well. Now, join the Miller Girls, Mama and Papa, Grandma Harris, and all the generations hence in rollicking yarns that have love, family, and faith as common denominators and show how food evocatively bonds us to our life experiences.

New Book Looks at Backyard Gardens and Homespun Cooking

With the Great Recession prompting many to till their yards to produce food for the family’s mealtimes, a new book, Way Back in the Country Garden, reminisces about days in which our forebears relied almost totally on the family garden instead of the convenient grocery store.

The book, by Kay Wheeler Moore, is a blend of stories about six generations of a family and their recipes developed from the food that is home-grown.

Way Back in the Country Garden is a sequel to Moore’s popular Way Back in the Country, published in 2002. That book encouraged people not only to preserve their families’ legendary recipes but also to preserve the lore about the people who popularized these recipes within a family.

As with the previous book, Moore tells the stories through the lives of the Three Red-Haired Miller Girls (her mother and two aunts), who grew up in farm-rich Delta County, TX, (in East Texas between Commerce and Paris), as well as through the generations surrounding them.

The lively Miller Girls, reared with modest means, nevertheless believed they were rich because their garden’s yield was so plentiful and because their creative Mama used her kitchen magic to make a meal fit for royalty.

Today, with frugal people becoming more resourceful, the family garden is so popular that even the prices of seeds and plants have inflated. Even the wife of U.S. President Barack Obama, as an example for others, is growing vegetables in her own White House garden.

The book contains an ample recipe collection for breakfast foods; relishes, appetizers, and jellies; salads; beverages, soups, and stews; vegetable sides; main dishes; and desserts—all to be prepared with produce fresh from the garden.

Kay Wheeler Moore is a Pulitzer-Prize nominee who stirred up her heirloom cornbread from Way Back in the Country on live TV while she promoted preserving family history through recipes. Her other previous books are When the Heart Soars Free, a book of Christian fiction, and Gathering the Missing Pieces in an Adopted Life, based on her Houston Chronicle newspaper series. Read about her and her husband's current experiences of cooking with homegrown ingredients at The Newfangled Country Gardener.

Recommendations for the National Day of Prayer

Many people throughout the nation have specifically focused on prayer today, we wanted to offer a couple suggestions of books that can help deepen a relationship with Christ. Hope these are helpful!

Perhaps you need some encouragement in your spiritual life? Check out Living in His Presence: Experience the Reality of God by Gina Moroney. Read what others are saying about this book:

Gina reveals her deepest reflections as she pulls back the curtain to give us a glimpse of her spiritual life. Truly, it is her witness to the touch of the Master’s Hand. Sit back, relax, and enjoy; let the story of Living in His Presence unfold page by page
~ Senior Pastor Charles E. Green, Message of Life Ministries, Loveland, Colorado

Living in His Presence is a gentle encouragement to go deeper with God and experience His presence on a daily basis. In a tender and gracious manner, Gina draws the reader in with practical, attainable steps for growing in intimacy with God.
~ Doug and Becky McKenna, Know Him Christian Sportswear

Living in His Presence reveals the heart of God through Gina, in whom He has obviously placed His heart. How does God become the satisfaction and delight of your life, moment by moment? Ask through the pages of this book, and you will see.
~ Tim and Terri Hayes, Division Director, Marketplace Chaplains USA

Gina points the way to a vibrant life in God’s presence, using a powerful combination of biblical truth and personal experience. Discover fresh insights from Gina’s story. Join her in this rewarding journey filled with incomprehensible joy.
~ Gail Horstman, Pastoral Care, New Community Christian Church

**Or, maybe you need a plan in how to put your faith into action? Anne Fortenberry's Faith that Works can help.

Anne explains what difference faith should make in our lives? If works don't insure our salvation, what's the purpose of right Christian behavior? If we have transformed lives in Christ, what specific works represent an outgrowth of our belief? Anne Fortenberry tackles all these questions in her nine-week interactive Bible study, Faith that Works. In a warmhearted, personal approach, Anne reveals fresh insights into the Book of James that will strengthen participants' faith, enrich their walk with the Lord, and challenge them to apply well-known scriptural principles.

Will God “crush” this bruised, rebellious reed?

A Bruised Reed is based on bites of information about the life of Lucey Hanks, Abraham Lincoln’s grandmother. This work is not intended as a biography, since so little is known about Hanks’ life. Not even her size, attributes, or hair color found agreement among historians. However, the story that can be pieced together from these historical bites gives a beautiful revelation of how deeply God loves His children and works through circumstances and persons to bring them to Himself.

The author, Helen Stephenson Spaulding, is eighth cousin to Abraham Lincoln. Because of a challenge to prove the relationship, much research was done into Lincoln’s relatives, especially his grandmother, Lucey Hanks. During this research, the gaps in Hanks' life were intriguing. What changed a young, rebellious, unwed mother—indicted for “unbecoming behavior”—to a married mother of eight more children, of whom two became ministers of the gospel and all the rest were active, deeply committed Christians? It was a story that begged to be written! (A few years ago, some interested persons worked hard to have the indictment expunged from Hanks' legal record.)

Some parts of this work are historically accurate. Others could have happened, given the actual history of that time. For instance, the massacre of Christian Dakota Indians did occur in 1782; the survivors did migrate south. Fictional events were woven into these historical parts to carry forward the theme.