After reading the first few pages of Amee’s Story, I wasn’t sure I would ever finish the book. That’s not because it was poorly written. Rather, it was so well written I was pulled back into  a difficult time in my own life. However, I persisted with the reading and I’m so glad I did.… Continue reading Amee’s Story – review
Everyday Watercolor Flowers – A modern guide to painting blooms, leaves and stems by Jenna Rainey © 2019. One of my favourite art teachers, particularly of watercolor, is Jenna Rainey. A couple of years ago, her book Everyday Watercolor introduced me to the wonderful medium of watercolor (reviewed here). Her newest book Everyday Watercolor Flowers… Continue reading Everyday Watercolor Flowers – review
It’s always a joy to celebrate the coming out of a new book by a fellow Canadian writer. Today is the day we fete Deb Elkink and the re-release of her prize-winning debut novel The Third Grace (originally published in 2011). It comes out with a new cover, but the same rich interior. Here is… Continue reading The Third Grace – review
If there was ever a great time to learn about art, this is it. Not only is the internet full of videos and online class possibilities, but books are easier than ever to purchase and use. For art instruction I love Kindle books. On my iPad they have a built-in stand (I don’t have to… Continue reading 15-Minute Watercolor Masterpieces – review
In years past we have attended the PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) and visited the barns on the fair grounds. However, I will never view them with the same casual attitude I have till now, after reading Sumi Kinoshita’s book Shikataganai—It Can’t Be Helped. That’s because those barns at Hastings Park became the home of Canadians… Continue reading Shikataganai–It Can’t Be Helped (review)
Can you believe we’re already almost halfway through January? Have you done any dreaming or planning for the year ahead? I finally got to setting down some intentions and goals last weekend. I know many pooh-pooh this new year tradition. Not I! Even the roughest road map helps me feel more purposeful and confident that… Continue reading Only a month from Valentine’s Day!
Eye of the Storm by Janice L. DickMy rating: 5 of 5 stars Eye of the Storm, Book Two in Janice L. Dick’s Storm Series, takes us through the tumultuous years of 1917 to 1919 in Russia and Crimea. The Czar’s rule is in shambles. All over the countryside poor Russian peasants are agitating for… Continue reading Eye of the Storm – review
Patricia Mussolum’s little book the Freedom of Dependency packs a big punch as it riffs on an apparent contradiction—how dependency on Jesus leads to a life of freedom. Part testimony, part teaching, part a dare to greater faith and obedience, Mussolum covers a lot of territory. In fourteen brief chapters with intriguing names like “The… Continue reading The Freedom of Dependency (review)
It’s hard to believe that it’s already November 26th. Just think… a month from today is Boxing Day. Christmas 2020 will be past! And the pandemic continues. Have you stayed healthy and well—in body and spirit? How have you spent your time? Have you tackled projects that you might not otherwise have done? Welcome to… Continue reading Introducing my art shop
Fresh Joy: Finding Joy in the Midst of Loss, Hardship and Suffering by Heidi McLaughlin My rating: 5 of 5 starsWhen the sudden and unexpected death of a partner hit Heidi McLaughlin for the second time, it would not have been surprising if she’d have become bitter and joyless. But she was determined not to… Continue reading Fresh Joy – review
Violet Nesdoly 