Meant To Love Monday!

I have missed writing for so a while now! I just haven't been able to get my head in the game, you know? Blogging has really been helping as well as writing some fiction between some new friends has really helped get me back in the swing of things. Couldn't be more grateful for our time spent together.

Three years ago I wrote a short story for Figment.com contest. You had to use this paragraph in the beginning of your story. The word limit was 1,500 (if you only knew how badly I despise word limits! It's better just to let me paint the wall and when I go over to the next than I'll go back and fix it. Otherwise, I over think about that one wall...) which for once I actually got under the limit! Which is rare for me cause I love describing thing and always go over the limit. It turned out pretty well. I got a lot of Hearts and very nice and helpful comments and critiques. But one day I decided I really wanted to try at the story again. I really loved it and I just wanted to add more to it, maybe rewrite a few scenes that didn't make sense anymore, and just give it new light. I started and nearly completed it late last year and I am proud to say I have finished!

Now with almost 3,000 words (double the original!) I can share with you all this completely remaster version of

I'm really excited about this, I think it turned out exactly if not better than I intended (which means you know God had a hand in it! Always) 

Feel free to read it on Figment.com and if you really feel inspired you can leave a comment on here letting me know your thoughts about it or if you are a Figment Member you can leave a comment right on the story!

Fiddler On The Roof

CBD.com

I had never heard of "Fiddler on the Roof" till a friend of mine on the west coast highly suggested I watch it. So, for a while I put it off cause it was a 3 hour movie and I wanted to be able to watch it without a bunch of interruptions. One Wednesday afternoon when I had nothing else to do and it was quiet in the house, I turned it on and from the moment it began I fell in love the fiddler on the roof!

Movie Review

This is Norman Jewison's adaptation of the long-running Broadway musical set in the Ukranian ghetto village of Anatevka. The poor milkman, Tevye, is tested by poverty, the romantic entanglements of his five daughters, and prejudicial attitudes of non-Jews.
Throughout the movie Tevye talks too God during his many trials. 

One of my favorite songs in the beginning is "If I were a rich man". I've been dancing, humming, and singing "Yubby dibby dibby dibby dibby dibby dibby dum" for two weeks straight! Its catchy, how can it not get stuck in your head? Try singing it...it's stuck in your head now, isn't it? Hahaha! I told you. Chaim Topol, I can't see anyone else ever doing a better job than him (no offence to other actors, I'm sure you're great!), he's just classic! His voice has this rustic fatherly charm to it as well that I can't get enough of--no that is not weird! Right?

Music isn't the only good thing about this movie (there's a lot, but we'll get to all those in a moment) the first scene that made me really want to just get up and dance along was during "To Life". There was so much light and happiness, you couldn't help but want to join in. And when the Tevye and the non-Jews danced together, it just made you want to leap! It felt like having communion (they were drinking though, weren't they? haha!) with someone you thought hated each the other coming together under an umbrella of joy. Who wouldn't be glad that someone's daughter is getting married? Even the poor Tailor, once he stood up for Tzeitel's hand in marriage, couldn't contain his joy in "Miracle of Miracles". It made me feel like I was jumping on clouds in springtime!

Lastly, my favorite part was the wedding dances! Come on, how can you not? I won't spoil it for those of you who haven't had the pleasure of seeing it, but to those who have I about jumped out of the chair and started kicking my heels and clapping along!

There's biblical lessons and eye openers and things to make you think about as well. This movie made me think a lot about my own dad. Tevye reminds me so much, to include having to deal with a house full of women! Haha. But like Tevye, he always turns and talks to God. What did you take away from this movie?

I give this movie a 5 out of 5 Stars! If you'd like to see it you can find it on Amazon.com and if you already have Prime you can currently watch it free thanks to your membership! Or you can purchase it on Instant Stream or DVD. You can click on the movie picture for a direct link to the movie on Christianbooks.com I highly recommend making this movie a part of your household collection!

Round of Applause for Featured Fig: William Carter!

I couldn't help but share this with you today. I logged into my Figment this afternoon and saw something so exciting at the bottom of my page. Our very own William Carter! I couldn't be happier for him and to see the path he is taking, one for God and imagination! This young man will be go places and inspire people; he inspires me already, so can you imagine what will happen when he's let loose on the world? Honestly, I can't wait to see his writing on the shelves on bookstores. 

Congratulations Will! We're all so proud of you! 

Featured Fig: William Carter

Read his featured interview on Figment.com by clicking the link above, you'll love it! 

Once A Shy Little Butterfly

So, I've been thinking... I really want to involve more of your readers out there in this blog of mine. I used to think "Oh, they'll just jump in when they feel like it." But then I realized, I have to really give you something to jump in with! So far, I haven't really done that. I've always enjoyed talking to people but at one time I was the very shy butterfly (sometimes I still am that!).

If you have any suggestions, I'd love to hear them. Just leave a comment in the box below. How can I involve you, my readers, in my blog posts?

Now to give you a little taste of my day, a tweet from this morning!

Woken by one of our cats jailbreaking😼the kittens out of the bedtime carrier! 🙀 Why? So she could could get in! #sillycat #needsleepnow #lol
— Victoria (@MissTadoodles) May 14, 2014

He is Mighty To Save: Bring Back Our Girls

Hello there Everyone. I want to first thank Brandi from A Travelers Thoughts Blog, her post "Bring Our Girls Back", concerning the school girls in Nigeria who were kidnapped last month, inspired and moved me.

I watch the national news most nights with my dad on NBC or ABC. I didn't use to, I thought it was boring, but with age comes wisdom as the good Lord tells us (so don't forget to respect your elders, they definitely know more than you think!) I saw the news report on the 276 Nigerian girls who were abducted when it aired sometime late last week and just thought "this world is getting worse and worse." With all the disasters and attacks on all the nations that are happening around the globe, what else would I think, right? Kind of how you feel watching the news nowadays, doesn't it?

But something Brandi said first made me feel ashamed but then it sparked a flame in me. That was her swift act to prayer and calling others to prayer.

"In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches.

But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire." ~James 3:5 (NLT)

I say ashamed because I thought "that should have been my first thought, Lord...". I'm not going to list any reasons or excuses why I didn't. But I'm here to say I am now! If anyone can bring these girls home is Jesus! For He is mighty to save! Let's not just pray for their safe return to their loving families, but for their salvation. That they will find Jesus, the way, the truth, and the light through the darkness. And as hard as it may seem to comprehend sometimes, if anyone can change the hearts of the people who have done this, it's Jesus! Pray they all soften their hearts and listen. Prayer is not just something to do, it's real, it's powerful! Thank you for reminding me of that Brandi.

Prayer Starter:

Dear Lord, protect these girls in this time of trial. Take them by the hand and lead them home. Open their hearts to you, Jesus, so they can live with you forever in Heaven. Soften the hearts of their captor's, let them see what they do is wrong and repent, and if they won't listen to you Lord, diminish their power and #bringbackourgirls! In Jesus name I pray, AMEN.

I Am Blessed! Liebster Blog Award

I have had the honor of being nominated for the Liebster Award 2014 by Brandi Edwards from A Travelers Thoughts. Thank you so much Brandi! 

What's a Liebster Award? It's an online only award, awarded by bloggers to other bloggers. 

Here are The Rules:

1. Post the award on your blog.
2. Thank the blogger who nominated you and link back to their blog.
3. Write 11 random facts about yourself.
4. Nominate 5-11 bloggers who you feel deserve this award and have less than 1,000 followers.
5. Answer 11 questions posted by your presenter and ask your nominees to answer 11 questions.

My 11 Random Facts:

1. I love singing Veggie Tales tunes in the market! Hehehe! ^^
2. I really love peanut butter!!!
3. I'm back and forth liking and hating broccoli...
4. I listen to Spotify way, way, way too much! (lol)
5. I'm a music-a-holic (probably should've put that first! haha. Don't worry, I go to MAA's [Music A-holics Anonymous] once a month XD)
6. I'm a type 1 diabetic.
7. My favorite color(s) are Teal, Green, and Brown! Pink isn't bad either ;) 
8. I love My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic!
9. My sisters say I am annoying...yet I'm the oldest, responsible child...I don't get it.
10. I'm a night owl.
11. I am very random! Just ask my friends. I spontaneously ask or spew things out at random times and they'll be like (picture below) I can't help it XD It makes me laugh, and my friends (I like making them laugh)

"Yeah, why?"

The 11 Questions Brandi asked me!

1. Why did you start your blog? A: I always wondered about blogging, but it wasn't until I saw having a blog as a requirement for a book program that I seriously looked into it. When I did, I told God, I wanted it to be more than just for books. I want to reach out to people, let them know they are not alone. I want to show them You!
2. Who is your favorite author and why? A: C. S. Lewis. His writing inspires me and touches my soul. From his land in Narnia to the depths of his broken heart. Sometimes I feel God speaking to me through CSL's writing. I hope to write something someday that inspires and brings people to Christ. Not for my glory, but God's.
3. What is your favorite quote and why? A: "If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.”  ― C.S. Lewis. Because I believe we were made to be with God in Heaven!
4. Where is your favorite place to study your Bible? A: On the couch, seated with a bunch of pillows and pads of paper and pens!
5. What is your favorite Bible verse? A: Well, I have a few (don't we all?) but this one has always been my favorite since I was very young. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do and he will direct your paths" ―Proverbs 3:-6
6. When were you saved? A: I believe I was around 7-8, I was baptized as well. When I got older, I lost my way for a short time. I didn't understand what I believed and the devil really tried to confuse me and get me to turn away. But deep in my heart I knew Jesus was real and true. So, I sought him out and like he says, I found him. I had never felt so overwhelmed than I did that day or so changed afterwards. That was 5 years ago.
7. Who is your favorite Bible character and why? A: Esther. I draw strength from her story. I have a hard time talking to people (I write better) and lack the courage to speak more times than I'd care to admit (a lot). But Esther, she had the courage and will to act when the time came.  God prepared her for such a time as he is also preparing me. 
8. Your favorite vacation you have ever been on? A: Disney World! First and only time I've ever been. But I hope to go again one day. ;)
9. A place you want to travel to? A: Greece.  
10. Favorite blog post you have read so far? A: The Impact of Words by Kayla Faber 
11. Favorite things to write about? A: Jesus, life lessons, books, movies, and music!

My 11 Questions for Nominees

1. Favorite time of day and why?
2. How would you describe your eyes/color in a book?
3. If you had 3 wishes from a genie, what you would ask? (3 rules apply: 1. Can't kill. 2. Can't make someone love you. 3. Can't bring the dead back to life)
4. Favorite band and why?
5. Favorite Childhood memory?
6. Would you date/marry someone twice your size?
7. What's your top 6 favorite foods/drinks that you couldn't live without?
8. Now, cut that 6 in half; Which 3 out of the 6 would you choose to live without, forever!?
9. Do you like like heat or cold better?
10. When was the last time you ate peanut butter?
11. Do you love/follow Jesus?

My Nominees:

1. Schyler J. at 18 Dreams
2. Kaitlyn Watson at Birdy's House
3. Kayla Faber at Girls of Grace
4. EEB at EEB Writing
5. Mirriam Neal at Wishful Thinking
6. Shannah McClammrock at Book Reviews by Shanna

Have fun everyone!

For Such A Time by Kate Breslin

Product Description

In 1944, blonde and blue-eyed Jewess Hadassah Benjamin feels abandoned by God when she is saved from a firing squad only to be handed over to a new enemy. Pressed into service by SS-Kommandant Colonel Aric von Schmidt at the transit camp of Theresienstadt in Czechoslovakia, she is able to hide behind the false identity of Stella Muller. However, in order to survive and maintain her cover as Aric's secretary, she is forced to stand by as her own people are sent to Auschwitz.

Suspecting her employer is a man of hidden depths and sympathies, Stella cautiously appeals to him on behalf of those in the camp. Aric's compassion gives her hope, and she finds herself battling a growing attraction for this man she knows she should despise as an enemy.

My Review

This vivid and emotionally packed retelling of Esther is filled with hope, love, and redemption. I cannot begin to tell you how much I loved and enjoyed this book. When I first read the description of  it I was, "Oh yeah, that sounds like my kind of book. WW2 and Esther, it should be good!" 

Good would not begin to describe it now. Magnificent, impressive, brilliant and beautifully written! With 51 verses used from the book of Esther, each chapter begins with a verse from various chapters. There's no chapter to chapter basis, whichever verse fits the chapter or was inspired for the chapter is used. Especially in the second half of the book, one chapter might be from Esther 8 and the next one from Esther 2. But each one fit it beautifully! 

The vast majority of the book takes place from February 14, 1944 to March 8, 1944. Less than two months, but when your reading it you lose all track of time. You get absorbed into each of the characters, even the evil Captain Hermann. I love when authors give depths to their villains. It's not just, "Oh your the bad guy." You get a little bit of background on him as well. How and why he became the villain in this story. Even Helen, the mute cook who came with  Aric von Schmidt when he moved to his new station in Theresienstadt, who you mostly only ever see in the kitchen or serving dinner you learn a bit of her background as well. Each one of the characters, put together like a tapestry, help make this one of the best stories I've ever read. 

Of course, my favorites were Stella (or Hadassah) and Aric. Aric's story of redemption was beautiful. After joining the Nazi's, he realized what they were doing was wrong but by that time his hands were covered in the blood of innocent lives and he felt he didn't deserve to be forgiven. So instead he did nothing to change, he ignored the cries in his heart and and tried to bear the sins he had committed on is own. Until he met Stella who helped open his heart and eyes to the truth of God's grace and mercy. Proving that no one is above receiving forgiveness and grace if they are willing to ask and turn away from what is wrong, which he did. 

Stella lost her faith in God, feeling He had abandoned her after a little girl close to her heart died in her arms at the hands of the Nazi's. But like Esther, she is to be the salvation for the jews. She doesn't know how; she constantly wondered what purpose God had for allowing her to live and be rescued by this Nazi Colonel instead of dying with that little girl. Her Uncle Morty had a God given dream that she would rescue them, like Esther did from Haman's evil plot. Stella can't understand what she could do to help them but she wants a sign from God, something to let her know He's still there. She has to learn to be silent and listen for his whispers and have faith. Because he never left her side. He was preparing her for Such A Time, like he did with Esther. 

This book was truly a mirror of the book of Esther if your willing to look deeper. Like in Esther, she was taken into a home unwillingly and forced to stay with a man she didn't even know and could kill her at any given time for whatever reason he might find. God prepared her to be in a position to help her people escape persecution. Even Aric, you can see how his position of power was like that of the king in Esther and how he fell in love with Stella that first moment he saw her. That God had used her to save both him and her people from Captain Hermann.

"For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”" ~Esther 4:14 (NLT)

I am thoroughly impressed by Kate Breslin's debut novel. I hope she continues to write more like it and be just as good as this one. I highly recommend this book to anyone.

I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars! If you want to purchase this book, just click on the cover above and you'll be brought straight to the book on ChristianBook.com


I received this book for free from the publisher’s in exchange for this honest and unbiased review as part of their Blogging Review program.

I'm Tired of Crying Over Spilled Milk

You've all probably heard the saying

"No use crying over spilled milk." ~Uknown

Why does that mean? It means, what' done is done. You can't un-spill milk. If we could rewind time than, yeah, that saying would probably not exist. lol. That's how I feel. Why am I still crying over it?

Remember the guy I spoke about last month? The one who pretty much broke my heart? Well, I stumbled across something of his online (hard not to do when your in the same community of friends) and the bruises I thought had healed turned out just to be far under the skin. Also, known as deep bruises. When I saw I it, it was like someone took a pencil (hey, it used to be a rolling pin!) and rolled on every sore spot.

I cried. It hurt. But now that I'm done I'm trying to remember that everything I went through is a part of God's plans.

"For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." ~Jeremiah 29:11

Deep breaths. I'm going to make it.

GOD BLESS.

Figgy Friday #12

Welcome to Figgy Friday Spotlight! Today I am glad to present...

Looking For Fireflies 

by 

Kristin Sherrill

I saw this and knew it looked interesting, but I didn't know it was going to be this good! The writing style is good, I like getting to see from more than one persons perspective, even in the beginning you get to hear the from the voice of the girl who was murdered! I cannot wait to read more! Very well done Kristin!

Until next time Figgy's and Guests!

Oh man! I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw it!

Oh man! I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw it! FOR KING & COUNTRY has a new single!!! EEEP! If this is a sign of the music to come on their next album, I'm gonna be squealing all the way to market! LOL

"Fix My Eyes" (Lyrics from the song!)

The things of Earth are dimming
In the light of Your glory and grace
I'll set my sights upon Heaven
I'm fixing my eyes on you

Love like I'm not scared
Give when it's not fair
Live life for another
Take time for your brother

I'd fight for the weak ones
speak out for freedom
Find faith in the battle
Stand tall but above it all
I'd fix my eyes on you



Aren't these just beautiful lyrics? :D