Monday's Musings

Today's 8/9/10.  I love when dates do something fun like that.

I've turned into quite the bookworm this summer and I'm loving it. . . However, I am currently on the market for a new book.  I just finished Redeeming Love, and have already read The Help, Firefly Lane, Charles Martin's latest book The Mountain Between Us (amazing!).  Any ideas?

I got my dental bill from my misery a few weeks ago.  Holy cavity!!  If I already did not have enough reasons to brush harder, I officially do now.

After receiving said Christmas present from the dentist, I'm determined to get better about budgeting.  Not quite the most fun topic, but I was wondering if any of you fellow readers had any suggestions.  I've always been conscious of my spending, and have a close idea of what's in my account, so that's not the problem.  I want to create a spreadsheet or something that allocates what portion of my income is going where (groceries, gas, fun, etc). . . So I can know what I'm spending. . . Does something like that exist?? A friend has suggested mint.com, but I just have not had a bunch of time to sit down and figure it out.  What's your magic trick?  Sometimes this real world with its big girl reality is tough!

Moving on to a happier subject- - -Tomorrow night, I'm throwing my culinary (in)expertise for a whirl and trying these slow cooker buffalo chicken sandwiches.  I'm really excited to see how they turn out!  This is definitely not something I've ever done before- I am totally inexperienced with the crockpot.  But, I figured it was a great time to practice the recipe so hopefully I can whip them out at a tailgate this fall.

Speaking of tailgates, football season is almost here!  Which means summer is almost over.  What?!? Crazy how much time flies.

Anyways, I hope everyone is doing well.  I'm so glad to see some new followers joined the bunch.  :) Have a great week!

Buried In A Book: Redeeming Love

When I get really into a book, I tuned everything else out.  I love to sit by myself, sometimes for hours, and get completely lost in someone else's story.  I majored in English in college, and honestly, I got a little burnt out reading for "work."  I'm so glad to be out of school and be able to focus on what I want to read, versus what I'm required to read!!

Currently, I am fascinated with Francine River's Redeeming Love.  I'd heard so much wonderful things about this book, and knew it would eventually make its way to my reading list.  What a pleasant surprise when my sister showed up with a copy in hand earlier this summer! 

Have you read it? You definitely should!

Set in the 1850s in the height of the California Gold Rush, Redeeming Love is a historical romance that parallels the book of Hosea from the Bible.  I am captivated by the story. . . the themes of unconditional love, grace, forgiveness.  Rivers' words hold your attention and touch your deepest emotions. . . . it makes you think about your life and how you react to those around you and you love.  I started it earlier this week, and have stayed up way too late two nights in a row reading, but I cannot put it down!   I cannot wait to see how it ends, but I also really don't want it to end! It is a must read!