All posts by Sally Ferguson

Hi! My name is Sally Ferguson and I have been a freelance writer since 1996. Over 100 devotionals have been published in Pathways to God (Warner Press). I’ve also written for Chautauqua Mirror, Just Between Us, Adult Span Curriculum and Thriving Family. Warner Press released my coloring book, What Will I Be When I Grow Up? January 2006. As a speaker, I enjoy connecting with women and seeing them find affirmation for the phase of life they face daily. I am passionate about helping women find encouragement from God’s Word, as well as supplying the tools to help them apply what they’ve learned there. I love organizing retreats and seeing relationships blossom when we take time away from our daily routine. Our Women’s Retreat just celebrated its 10th Anniversary! Parenting has its own set of challenges. My kids are grown but the nest keeps growing. Join me on the journey as we figure it out together!
Reviews

Book Review: The Minimalist Home

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@WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner #sponsored
Why did a packrat sign up to review The Minimalist Home? Is it possible to change a lifetime of habits? I wanted to know if it is truly attainable, and decided to document the process.
My journey began with a flood in our basement this summer. Our office, bedroom, utility room, laundry room and rec room all received the influx of water, measured in inches, not just by sloshing through it. Family pictures, scrapbooking supplies and mementoes from my parents’ home were pitched. Mold had to be addressed, carpeting torn out, and paint reapplied. It was time to rethink my hoarding tendencies.
Author, Joshua Becker defines minimalism as “the intentional promotion of things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from them.”

Never organize what you can discard. #minimalisthome

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Joshua’s promise is to provide a comprehensive, practical and encouraging how-to guide to carry you through the process of decluttering the home. That was good enough for me, and I signed on.
Joshua Becker began his own journey the day he tackled his cluttered garage and noticed the loss of opportunity to spend time with his son. His stuff had commandeered his time. He has since minimized his home and lifestyle, and speaks and writes about the benefits of owning less and serving more. He founded The Hope Effect in response to the orphan epidemic around the world.
The Minimalist Home provides action steps at the end of each chapter for a jumpstart on specific rooms in the house, success stories of people who have accepted the challenge to live with less, and promotes the value of spending time with people rather than with possessions. Joshua asserts, “If this is still difficult for you, set a goal for yourself. Maybe you can at least halve this collection of emotion-soaked stuff. I think you will find that setting a physical limit helps you quickly separate the most important from the just-kind-of important.”
Here’s my progress report since beginning The Minimalist Home:
• Sorted items for our church’s annual garage sale.
• Hung pictures in our newly painted rec room.
• Threw out a box of cassette tapes.
• Set aside puzzles, books, plants and frames for our Scrapbooking Chinese Auction.
• Cleaned out the refrigerator (Really? Expired in 2017?!!)
• Gave items to my adult children for their homes.
One of the biggest blessings this week, was unpacking boxes at my daughter’s first home. As I washed dishes and glasses from my Gra’ma and Mom, it tickled me to see them finding use in their new home, where I can come and enjoy them where they are needed most.
I found I like the idea of being more intentional with what I own, and I’m looking forward to the benefits multiplying. I’m still a work in progress, but at least I am in progress. Get a copy of The Minimalist Home and see for yourself if the minimizing goals will help you take a stab at your more important bucket list goals!
Sally

What is hardest for you to declutter?

Disclosure of Material: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the WaterBrook/Multnomah book review program in exchange for a fair and honest review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Reviews

Book Review & a Giveaway: Fanning the Flame

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Have the embers of your faith wavered? Terri Clark wrote Fanning the Flame as result of observing missionary burnout. She realized, “If it could happen to someone who is so steeped in the faith, it could happen to me.”
And happen, it did. Four decades of ministry caught up to Terri. In Fanning the Flame, she outlines the things that led to mediocre faith and how she recovered her relationship with the Lord.
Terri Clark’s ministry includes a Child Education Sponsorship Program in Uganda and assisting the build of the Ray of Hope Medical Center. She has ministered throughout the United States, as well as Mexico, India, Vietnam, China and Myanmar with her messages of hope. She wrote Tying the Family Knot: Meeting the Challenges of a Blended Family and is an AACC Biblical Counselor and Christian Life Coach.
Terri talks about the danger of being self-reliant. Maybe we’ve been followers for a while, and just automatically jump in to solve the world’s problems. When we forget to rely on the Lord, we also eliminate the need for prayer, rest and restoration. That leads to burnout.

We are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and for many of us, our temples need some maintenance. ~ Terri Clark

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                       I am especially intrigued by her experiment with clay and the illustration of lamp and wick. Her hands-on research shows how God is able to reignite our work for His kingdom. The clay represents us. Oil: the Holy Spirit. The wick that needs to be trimmed represents faith, and how we have to cut sin, pride, and unforgiveness from our lives. The flame can only be ignited by God when we are a vessel He can use. Then our light can shine for Him.
Friend, are you tired and feel like no one notices? Terri says, “That’s the good news about becoming weary in our well-doing. God appreciates what we do for him, even if no one else does. He sees when we become frustrated, hurt, depressed, angry, or defeated, and he sends the refreshment we need to strengthen our depleted spirits for the next leg of our journey.”
Reach out for the Lord, He’s there.
I am giving away a copy of Fanning the Flame, courtesy of The Adams Group, to one reader in the continental United States. To enter the drawing, sign up for my newsletter: type in your email address under the waterfall picture on my blog.
To earn more entries, or if you’re already following my blog, share this post via social media. Each share to a different social media venue earns you one entry (up to three).
Let me know in a comment where you’ve shared.
I will announce the winner Monday evening, October 22!
Sally
Disclosure of Material: I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Adams Group book review program in exchange for a fair and honest review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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Family, Reviews

Book Review: The Daily Question for You and Your Child

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@WaterBrookMultnomah #Partner #sponsored

What if you had a place to document your child’s thoughts, sayings and dreams? What if you could revisit it next year and add to it? There is such a place, and it’s called, The Daily Question for You and Your Child!
Waterbrook has compiled 365 conversation starters for your family to pursue. Some of your child’s responses will make you giggle and some will blow your socks off, but all will create opportunities for bonding around the dialogue. Over time, the name of the book will change to your child’s journal, as entries add up to document and become a time capsule of a life lived.
I love journaling with our kids! When mine were little, I had a spiral notebook where I jotted down their funny sayings. One day, they noticed me writing in it and wanted to know what I was doing. After that, they made sure I noted everything they said. The Daily Question for You and Your Child becomes a keepsake with those sayings!
The Daily Question for You and Your Child uses such unique starters as:
• What did you do this week that was really brave?
• What is the best way to show someone you’re sorry?
• If you could build anything, what would it be?
• What is something that made you laugh this week?
• If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
• What do you think is the best vegetable to eat, and the worst?
• What is a compliment someone has given you that made you happy?
• What is your favorite Bible verse?
• What made today different from yesterday?
• Name three special qualities God designed in you.
• What is something you could teach someone else?
• What are your three favorite things about God?
Get your own copy and start documenting your memories today!
Sally
Disclosure of Material: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the WaterBrook/Multnomah book review program in exchange for a fair and honest review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Retreats, Reviews

Book Review: A Spoonful of Grace

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Is it intimidating to come up with devotions to share with your children? Annette Hubbell has taken the guesswork out of the equation by writing A Spoonful of Grace, Mealtime Blessings in Bite-Sized Pieces.
“Annette Hubbell is a writer, actor, and producer. She has an MBA from CSU San Marcos and a Certificate in Christian Apologetics from Biola University.” She wrote A Spoonful of Grace after a meal with friends, where she was inspired by the prayer offered and the ensuing table talk.
A Spoonful of Grace received the Illumination Book Award in the Family/Parenting category, which is “based on content, design, and production quality, with emphasis on innovation and creative ways of expressing a Christian worldview.”
Annette says it will take two minutes to introduce one of the mealtime reflections. From there, families can use the insights as a springboard. It will cultivate communication at mealtimes and other times, as they learn to listen and discuss matters of the heart. A Spoonful of Grace is a great tool with thoughts on Scriptures. It nudges budding hearts with easy to process topics and devotionals.
An example from the book is taken from Day 21. The verse highlighted is from Proverbs 1:8-9 where we are reminded to learn from the wisdom of our parents. The assignment for the kids? Act like a reporter and interview your parents!
Annette says the daily graces are like manna, to provide morsels that will grow into prayerful habits. From birthday and holiday meditations, to daily interactions, A Spoonful of Grace will give you the opportunity to create conversation around God’s Word and the characteristics of a life in tune with His. May it prompt discussions with your family that help each to grasp the gospel message and absorb it into their own hearts!
Sally
Disclaimer: I received a copy of A Spoonful of Grace from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Family, Reviews

Book Review: It’s a Jungle in Here

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The animal kingdom gets center stage, in It’s a Jungle in Here. Tigers, leopards, lions and elephants share the same habitat as butterflies and Tucans. But, do they eat the same food?
Author and Illustrator, Kristie Wilde has created a children’s book that delights the eyes and intellect. It’s a Jungle in Here abounds with her watercolor illustrations and whimsical designs. She uses her degree in Forestry and her love of Jesus to tickle the fancy of young readers and old, alike. Other books in her Joyful Creation Series include Made For a Purpose and So Great a Love.
It’s a Jungle in Here contrasts animals to show the variety on our planet. Big and small, loud and quiet, all have a place in the ecosystem. But, Kristie turns the story to include all of us, because we all add variety to the world.
A glossary of animals rounds out the book with tidbits of insight into their behavior and preferences. Did you know, “An Okapi’s tongue is long enough that they can clean their eyes with it!”?

Lions, tigers and chameleons, too!

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I chose the book to share with my grandchildren. Its pages are enticing with visually appealing storyline and it provides a beautiful reminder of God’s creativity. Get a copy for your family and watch them ooh and aah over the pages, too!
Sally
What’s your favorite animal fact?
Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Faith, Holidays

Endings & Beginnings

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The end of summer signals the last minute scurry to pack in all the extra things we wanted to do with our sunshiny days. Trips to the waterpark get squeezed in with back to school shopping. Vacations and kayaking add to the hoopla.
The beginning of Fall is just around the corner for us in the north. The temperatures are dropping at night and orange colors are starting to show up here and there in the trees.

What change does Fall signify for you?

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This morning’s time in God’s Word raised the question of fruit in my life. I look out the back door at Fall’s fruit on my apple trees, the orbs changing shape and color, and I wish the fruit in my life were so tangible.
• I look at the fruit of God’s Spirit and ask, is love growing in me? Faithfulness? Self-control? Am I treating others with kindness? As I enter a different season of life, am I becoming more selfish, or selfless?
• I think about the fruit of good works the Lord intends for me to hang in my tree and I wonder, “Am I more in tune with His nudges, or am I drowning out His voice?”
• I ponder the fruit of a closer relationship with God and ask, am I leaning into His grace more or relying on my self-sufficiency?
What would you do, to ensure fruit is growing in your life?
Small groups at church help me grow closer to the Lord, as we study His Word. We dig for truths found there, and flesh them out together. It also gives us opportunity to develop relationships, as we seek what it means to serve God and others. Why not give it a try? If your church doesn’t have small groups, invite others to join you. Isn’t it time to start something new?
What will you be ending and beginning in the next few weeks?
Sally

Reviews

Book Review & a Giveaway: The Nephilim Virus

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The Nephilim Virus has infected blood and altered human anatomy! Yet, Nick Reese’s blood seems to hold the key to immunity. Will he find others like him in time to stop a takeover of the human race, or will he, too, fail in the attempt?

The human race has been infected; will a cure be found in time?

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Author John Prather was inspired by his storytelling grandfather. As an actor and model, John has seen the entertainment industry from the inside, and wanted to provide entertainment with Christian values. He says, “All the great themes, like redemption and sacrifice and love, of all the great stories are just tiny versions of the greatest story, God’s story. I want readers to connect to the greatest story by reading a book that has little glimpses of that story woven into it.”
From the first page, The Nephilim Virus is action packed; I couldn’t put it down! It weaves science fiction with apocalyptic events and provides surprises on every page. It explores a world where technology has crashed and people have to rely on their own ingenuity. It tests the limits of faith and trust in other people in dire circumstances. And it looks at the power of love to rescue impossible situations.
Some interesting questions raised include compromise of values when in danger, loyalty of friendship, and perseverance in hopeless times. Dr. Faith Richards stands at a crossroads in her research. Will she help the enemy?
If you like dystopian novels, you will love this one. John Prather uses fast pacing to keep the story moving, and creates believable characters. It will keep you reading to the surprising climax!
I am giving away a copy, courtesy of The Adams Group, to one reader in the continental United States. To enter the drawing, sign up for my newsletter: type in your email address under the waterfall picture on my blog.
To earn more entries, or if you’re already following my blog, share this post via social media. Each share to a different social media venue earns you one entry (up to three).
Let me know in the blog comments where you’ve shared.
I will announce the winner Thursday evening, August 9!
Sally
Disclosure of Material: I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Adams Group book review program in exchange for a fair and honest review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Reviews

Book Review: Tales of the Kingdom

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Tales of the Kingdom is the story of all of us, as we hunt for something of true value. The allegories provide a narrative tested by time; 30 years, in fact, as this is the special 30th Anniversary Edition! Filled with engaging characters fighting their own battles of inadequacy, mistakes and pain, Tales of the Kingdom is a “can’t put it down” wonder.
The authors, David and Karen Mains have been teaching about The Kingdom for more than 50 years. Their work with Mainstay Ministries equips pastors around the globe to bring creative solutions to ministry. Written for children and the child in all of us, the Kingdom Tales Trilogy books are Gold-medallion award-winners.
Even if you are not a fan of parables, you will be drawn into the narrative of Tales of the Kingdom. Scarboy escapes Enchanted City with Little Brother in a daring flee for their lives. In Great Park, they meet Princess Amanda, Mercie, Caretaker and others seeking restoration of The Kingdom.
The Orphan Keeper’s Assistant “discovered that the Kingdom was for outcasts, and one must become an outcast in order to follow the King.”
The Apprentice Juggler teaches us that those who march to the beat of a different (God-given) drum “will find a place in the Kingdom.”
“The first rule of Great Park: A Kingdom is Anyplace Where the King Rules!”
A girl named Dirty found out “the subjects of the King are nothing more than ugly beggars,” but all are brought to the Kingdom.
The boy named Hero learned, “there is a kingdom within that must first be conquered before one becomes brave enough to challenge the world without.”
Order your copy now! I can’t wait to share these stories with my grandchildren; I know it will open up a whole new world of interaction over character values and kingdom perspectives!

Tales of the Kingdom is the story of all of us, as we hunt for something of true value.

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Sally
Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


Reviews

Book Review: Courageous Women of the Bible & a Giveaway!

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Courageous Women of the Bible offers a refreshing look at familiar people, and shows how courage was needed in their lives. But it goes one step further, by connecting the past with the present. How does this apply to life now? Latan Roland Murphy weaves the narrative so masterfully; you don’t even realize the mirror is in front of your face!
Latan Roland Murphy is the author of Becoming A Woman of Interior Elegance and co-author of God’s Provision in Tough Times. She teaches God’s Word with a beautiful use of words to illustrate the story and how it relates to the reader.
The book promises a life of confidence and freedom, in exchange for fear and insecurity. It accomplishes that goal by showing how obstacles become opportunities when God is by our side. Time after time, LaTan shows how women “can courageously act and react with godly character, even in times of suffering.”

Courage whispers we are enough when fear of failure tells us otherwise. ~ Latan Roland Murphy

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“Women included are:
• Deborah-Wife, judge, and ruler of Israel. Courage is needed to lead our families and others.
• The Woman with an Issue of Blood-Physically sick woman. Courage is needed when facing rejection.
• The Widow with Two Coins-Poor widow. Courage is needed to give generously in our financial hardships.
• Jael-Wife, warrior, divided household, decisive and courageous. Courage is needed to seize opportunities-using what’s in our hands in the midst of obstacles.
• Abigail-Faithful wife to a selfish, foolish man. Courage is needed to do the right thing, even when your spouse or others do not.
• Bathsheba-Exposed bathing beauty caught in a web of sin. Courage is needed when we’ve acted in sin, were abused, molested, or feel violated.
• The Samaritan Woman-Person with a troubled past of multiple marriages. Courage is needed to simply believe there is redemption and to tell others what Christ has done for us.
• Mary Mother of Jesus-Young mother. Courage is needed to have a baby, especially in unpredictable times. Mary delivered the Son of God amidst great odds and pressure around her, and we are bearers of life in uncertain times.
• The Shulammite Woman-Hopeless romantic. Courage is needed to express our physical love, knowing the marriage bed is undefiled.
• Jochebed-Mother of Moses. Courage is needed as we surrender our children and the people we care about to God.
• The Shunammite Woman-Hospitable wife. Courage is needed to show hospitality, taking an others-minded approach to life by welcoming others into our private lives, even when our prayers are unanswered.”
LaTan uses transparency to reveal unstoppable faith. She is an encourager with a contagious enthusiasm for biblical characters. Her words are soothing and measured. She reminds us Jesus notices all women in every arena of life. Get this book and be reenergized in your walk with the Lord!
I am giving away a copy of Courageous Women of the Bible to one reader in the continental United States. Leave a comment on my blog (at the top of this post, under the title) and answer this question, “Who is a biblical woman you admire, and why?” You will be entered into the drawing to be held on Saturday, June 9 at 4 pm. I can’t wait to hear about your favorites!
Sally
Disclosure of Material: I received a complimentary copy of this book from The Blog About Network book review program in exchange for a fair and honest review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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