Today is an exciting day ya’ll. I’ve been waiting (impatiently) to tell you about it for months.

THREE (plus one that came out a month ago) incredible books hit the shelves today. So run to your nearest book retailer, or click on that Amazon app of yours, and order them- you won’t be sorry. (Now I sound like those info-mercials! I’ve never spelled that word out before…funny. For only $9.99…but seriously, this is a momentous day! Wow, could this week get any better? Seahawks win the Superbowl- ahem, sorry Bronco fans- and you’ll be set for the next month with great reads! Or the next week if you’re like us Bethke’s.)

The Antelope in the Living Room by Melanie Shankle

Melanie Shankle has done it again folks! Last year I laughed my way through, with tears rolling down my cheeks, her first book Sparkling Green Earrings. When I saw that she was coming out with her second book, I practically did somersaults around our house. Ladies. You all need Melanie Shankle’s books. Even if you’re not a reader, you’ll love her writing and get drawn in immediately. She is full of wit and vulnerability. This book is a sure uplift- and who doesn’t need a good laugh!? The Antelope in the Living Room is the tale of her marriage with all the magic, quirks and stories that you just have to let go and laugh about.

Love-ology by John Mark Comer

Honestly, this is the best book I’ve read on dating and sexuality-ever. Not only is it an easy and enjoyable read, but it’s also chalk-full of truth given in a gracious and down to earth manner. I read it in one sitting; I couldn’t put it down. Beginning with the why of marriage, John Mark takes you through the ins and outs of sexuality, love, singleness and what it means to be male and female. To top it off, he ends with an extensive list of Q & A’s on those issues that are vulnerable and real. When I read it, I wanted to pass it out to every high schooler and leader, parent, college student and young adult. Not only is it an awesome resource to have on hand, but it also is a great read. (And I know you all have love on the brain seeing as Valentine’s Day is just around the corner!)

Notes from a Blue Bike by Tsh Oxenreider

Do you ever feel like you’re life is crazy? Out of control? Hectic? Tsh Oxenreider, famous founder of TheArtofSimple.net, encourages us to choose to live differently even in the chaos of life; to choose to adjust the little things in our lives to bring freedom and live according to what we value and are most passionate about. She weaves stories from her family’s time as missionaries in Turkey, to living in queso-loving Austin, to making their home in the beautiful state of Oregon.  Tsh gives practical how’s, and compelling why’s, of living with intention and purpose.

Restless by Jennie Allen

Last year I read Jennie Allen’s book Anything that really did turn my world upside down- and learned that living a life of true surrender brings crazy joy as a believer. Since then, I have been able to get to know Jennie, and have fallen in love with her passion, courage and tenacity as she steps out to be a voice for this generation of women. Jennie is the real deal and pours her heart into everything she does. Her latest book Restless is all about discovering the deep passions we have, and how to actually move forward in pursuing them and using our gifts that God has given us. Because let’s be honest, we all face so many fears when it comes to this topic, but what if we actually laid down those fears and stepped out in faith? Jennie gives honest truth as she walks us through this process that she’s gone through herself. With awesome discussion questions, this would be the perfect book for a women’s bible study or small group, as well as for individual use. Ladies in college to ladies in their 70’s will be encouraged and moved by this book.

Tuesday, February 4, 2014