2016 Reading List

1.       Caught in the Middle by Regina Jennings

2.       The Red Siren  by MaryLu Tyndall

3.       The Blue Enchantress by MaryLu Tyndall

4.       The Raven Saint by MaryLu Tyndall

5.       Out of the Storm by Jody Hedlund

6.       Love Unexpected by Jody Hedlund

7.       Married to Maggie by Jan Romes

8.       Healing Her Heart by Laura Scott

9.       A Soldier’s Promise by Laura Scott

10.   Moonlight Masquerade by Ruth Axtell

11.   Irish Meadows by Susan Anne Mason

12.   Mail Order Bride by Megan West

13.   Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade

14.   A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer

15.   Dawn’s Prelude by Tracie Peterson

16.   Shadows of the Past by Patricia Bradley

17.   Esther: Reluctant Beauty by Angela Elwell Hunt

18.   Redeemed Hearts by Cathy Mary Hake

19.   Mail-order Bride: Christy by Viki Holt

20.   Raspberry Kisses by Cecelia Dowdy

21.   A Rose Blooms Twice by Vikki Kestell

22.   Ruth: A Woman of Valor by Jim Baumgardner

23.   In Good Company by Jen Turano

24.   Playing the Part by Jen Turano

25.   The Dragon Roars by Sara Davison

26.   The Crimson Cord by Jill Eileen Smith

27.   The Prophetess by Jill Eileen Smith

28.   The Husband Maneuver by Karen Witemeyer

29.   The Butterfly and the Violin by Kristy Cambron

30.   No Other Will Do by Karen Witemeyer

31.   If I Run by Terri Blackstock

32.   Secrets of Sunbeams by Valerie Comer

33.   Charity’s Cross by MaryLu Tyndall

34.   The Promise Keeper by Lisa Norato

35.   The Soldier, the Terrorist, and the Donkey King by David Kitz

36.   Thin Ice by Irene Hannon

37.   Original Jesus by Carl Laferton

38.   Secretly Yours by Valerie Comer

39.   Pinky Promise by Valerie Comer

40.   Sweet Serenade by Valerie Comer

41.   Tangled Webs by Irene Hannon

42.   The Morning Star Rises by Sara Davison

43.   The Day I Met Jesus by Frank Viola and Mary deMuth

44.   If Ever I Would Leave You by Susan May Warren

45.   The Christmas Bargain by Shanna Hatfield

46.   Buried Secrets by Irene Hannon

47.   A Shelter of Hope by Tracie Peterson

48.   Behold! by Suzanne Benner

49.   The Bible (66 books) = 114 TOTAL

 

30 Things you may not know about my illness: ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

1.       The illness I live with is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I have others but I’ll focus on this one.

2.       I was diagnosed with it at age 51.

3.       The other name for it is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), which means an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, which is what it feels like. A newer name is SEID. Severe Exercise Intolerance Disease, which makes it more serious by calling it a disease, but the name doesn’t take into account the other symptoms.

4.       Since it is a syndrome, it has a cluster of symptoms. It’s much more than just fatigue.

5.       It’s an invisible illness, not an imaginary one.

6.       It came on quite suddenly in December.

7.       It is considered both an auto-immune and neurological disorder.

8.       It’s linked with my other problems: Fibromyalgia syndrome, Multiple Chemical Sensitivities (MCS) and Electro-magnetic Hypersensitivity (EMH).

9.       Because of the other illnesses the symptoms of pain, cognitive impairment (Fibro fog) and sleep issues are cumulative.

10.   The biggest adjustment I’ve had to make is to have to leave my job (Oncology nursing), which I love. I’m currently on long term disability.

11.   The hardest part of my day is deciding what my one task will be for the day. I can usually only do one thing; an appointment or a chore. The rest of the time spent on the couch.

12.   I feel useless. I used to be a productive member of society and church. I used to be able to do so much, like host dinner parties, etc.

13.   Before my LTD was approved, I felt worried about our finances and feared losing our house. I know it added to my husband’s stress as well.

14.   I can’t look after my grandson like I would have if I was well. My balance is so bad, I’m nervous to carry him, and won’t risk going up or down stairs with him.

15.   One gadget I’ve come to appreciate is my CES machine (Cranio-electro –stimulator). I can set it to sleep with energy, sleep or pain. My husband calls it space invaders.

16.   Unless you also have to rest for 20 minutes after climbing the stairs or taking a shower, your definition of fatigue is irrelevant.

17.   Three years ago I was taking one pill and two supplements, now I take 90 pills and supplements. Every. Day.

18.   If I had to choose between an invisible illness or a visible illness, I’d still choose invisible; only because I don’t like to call attention to myself.

19.   I wear comfy clothes now. My motto used to be fashion before comfort, now it’s comfort before fashion.

20.   Regarding alternative treatments, I’ve found they have been immensely helpful, specifically chiropractor, massage therapist, and Naturopath in relieving many of my symptoms. I have a good team around me.

21.   One of the worst symptoms is a feeling that my spine and brain are being whisked. When they vibrate, I can’t do anything until it passes.

22.   I’ve seen an Athletic Therapist who specializes in ME patients. She started me on an exercise program. My heart rate can’t go over 105 I can only do anaerobic exercise and strength training. It’s all about pacing so I don’t crash.

23.   An ME crash occurs if I’ve been “overdoing it”. For example, I generally can’t clean my house. But one day I had a big more energy and dared to vacuum one level, clean my bathroom and do a load of laundry. The next day I couldn’t do a thing, I spent it on the couch.

24.   I’m pleased to say that compared to a year ago, I have some significant improvements to my sleep, pain level and cognitive improvement. The exhaustion is not much better, and my MCS, EMH are unchanged.

25.   It’s been three years since my health deteriorated and one year since the ME hit and I can barely remember what I used to be like.

26.   I sometimes wish I had a disabled parking sticker because whenever I go to the train for a downtown appointment, I have to park at the far end of the parking lot, and it’s the equivalent of a two block walk to go to the train. It wears me out and adds to my ordeal.

27.   When I went to get my car licensed, I had to stand in line for 1 ½ hours! I may bring a cane with me into a similar situation in the future, so people won’t look at me funny if I grab a chair to rest.

28.   One of my doctors did a balance test before my treatment. I swayed with my eyes closed and couldn’t stand on my toes with my eyes closed for more than 2-3 seconds. It’ll be interesting to see a change after my treatments.  It’s caused by a swelling on the brain.

29.   Even if they can clear out my liver and improve my MCS and EMH, which would be great, they won’t be able to fix my ME or Fibro because they’re chronic.

30.   In spite of this, I’m glad it didn’t hit me until my children were grown. I’m also thankful to have such a supportive and understanding husband.

Reading List 2014

      1.       Fields of the Fatherless by Elain Marie Cooper

2.       The Anonymous Bride by Vickie McDonaugh

3.       Second Chance Brides by Vickie McDonaugh

4.       Finally a Bride by Vickie McDonaugh

5.       Hidden Falls Episode One by Olivia Newport

6.       Lady of Milkweed Manor by Julie Klassen

7.       The Apothecary’s Daughter by Julie Klassen

8.       The Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

9.       The Girl in the Gatehouse by Julie Klassen

10.   Love on Asssignment by Cara Lynn James

11.   A Path Toward Love by Cara Lynn James

12.   Romance-ology by Julie Lessman

13.   The Measure of Katie Calloway by Serena Miller

14.   A Great Catch by Lorna Selistad

15.   Debt-free for Life by John Dunn

16.   Rugged and Relentless by Kathy Eileen Hake

17.   Tall, Dark and Determined by Kathy Eileen Hake

18.   Strong and Stubborn by Kathy Eileen Hake

19.   Under a Blackberry Moon by Serena Miller

20.   A Promise to Love by Serena Miller

21.   A Talent for Trouble by Jen Turano

22.   The Heiress of Winterwood by Sarah E. Ladd

23.   A Necessary Deception by Laurie Alice Eakes

24.   Perfectly Matched by Maggie Brendan

25.   Love in the Balance by Regina Jennings

26.   The Ransom by Mary Lu Tyndall

27.   Surrender the Wind by Rita Gerlach

28.   The Frontiersman’s Daughter by Laura Frantz

29.   The Invention of Sarah Cummings by Olivia Newport

30.   Where the Wildflowers Bloom by Ann Shorey

31.   The Forgiven Duke by Jamie Carie

32.   The Irish Healer by Nancy Herriman

33.   Elusive Hope by Mary Lu Tyndall

34.   Flight of the Earls by Michael K. Reynolds

35.   Testimonies of Faith by Pia Thompson

36.   A Cowboy Unmatched by Karen Witemeyer

37.   Love’s Gamble by Tina Dee

38.   A Lady in the Mist by Laurie Alice Eakes

39.   Full Steam Ahead by Karen Witemeyer

40.   A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund

41.   Amy Inspired by Bethany Pierce

42.   Into the Whirlwind by Elizabeth Camden

43.   Book Proposals that Sell by W. Terry Whalin

44.   A Suitor for Jenny by Margaret Brownley

45.   The Vigilante’s Bride by Yvonne Harris

46.   Fairplay by Deeanne Gist

47.   Stuck Together by Mary Conneally

48.   The Lady of Bolton Hill by Elizabeth Camden

49.   Writing Historical Fiction by Angela Hunt

50.   Creating Story Tension by Amy Deardon

51.   A Flight of Fancy by Laurie Alice Eakes

52.   Love by the Letter by Melissa Jagears

53.   Ismeni by Tosca Lee

54.   Love’s Awakening by Laura Frantz

55.   Writing Days: 52 Devotions by Jan Thompson

56.   Something’s Wrong by Laurie Penner

57.   The Advocate by Randy Singer

58.   The Queen’s Handmaid by T.L. Higley

59.   A Match Made in Texas by Mary Conneally, Carol Cox, Karen Witemeyer,Regina Jennings

60.   Truth be Told by Carol Cox

61.   The Amish Cookbook by Georgia Verozza and Kathleen Kerr

62.   Submerged by Dani Pettrey

My 2013 Reading List

My 2013 Reading List

1. Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz

2. With Every Letter by Sarah Sundin

3. Sea Captain’s Promise by Joyce A. Scott

4. The Proverbs 31 Woman: One Virtue at a Time by Courtney Joseph

5. Kate’s Kisses by Mary Manners

6. High Desert Haven by Lynette Bonner

7. Gentleman of Her Dreams by Jenn Turano

8. Speak Up with Confidence by Carol Kent

9. Second Chances by Allison Stanley

10. Garden of Madness by Tracy L. Higley

11. The Scoundrel’s Essential Guide to Surviving Socio-Economic Collapse by Tom Fox and Gwame Brown

12. Tempest in the White City by Deeanne Gist

13. The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh

14. The Colonel’s Lady by Laura Frantz

15. Set Sail My Heart by Colleen Coble

16. Mirror Image by M. Dello and A. Reid

17. Noble Pursuits by Chautona Hauvig

18. Trapped: the Adulterous Woman by Golden Keyes Parsons

19. Cafenova by S. Jane Scheyder

20. Rocky Mountain Oasis by Lynette Bonner

21. Bug-Out Bag: Prepper’s Guide by Gayle Richardson

22. Out of the Wilderness by Anita K. Greene

23. Benaiah by Cliff Graham

24. Outlining Your Novel by K.M. Weiland

25. Love’s Reckoning by Laura Frantz

26. The Reliance by Mary Lu Tyndall

27. Unending Devotion by Jody Hedlund

28. Stealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer

29. A Texan’s Promise by Shelley Gray

30. Destiny’s Hands by Violet Nesdoly

31. Waiting for Summer’s Return by Kim Vogel Sawyer

32. The Pursuit of Lucy Banning by Olivia Newport

33. The Bachelor Puzzle by Judith Pella

34. Lethal Legacy by Irene Hannon

35. Against the Tide by Elizabeth Camden

36. Love Ahoy by Colleen Coble

37. David and Bathsheba by Roberta Kells Dorr

38. Chasing the Sun by Tracie Peterson

39. It Happened at the Fair by Deeanne Gist

40. Rebekah by Jill Eileen Smith

41. Betrayed by Robin Lee Hatcher

42. Vanished by Irene Hannon

43. Grave Consequences by Lisa T. Bergen

44. Glittering Promises by Lisa T. Bergen

45. Alone by Golden Keyes Parsons

46. Trapped by Irene Hannon

47. Trouble in Store by Carol Cox

48. Heart of Gold by Robin Lee Hatcher

49. When Love Calls by Lorna Seilestad

50. The Tutor’s Daughter by Julie Klassen

51. A Heart Deceived by Michelle Griep

52. Deeply Devoted by Maggie Brennan

53. Twice Promised by Maggie Brennan

54. So Shines the Night by T.L. Higley

55. Where Hearts are Free by Golden Keyes Parsons

56. The Rebel’s Pledge by Rita Gerlach

57. The Dilemma of Charlotte Farrow by Olivia Newport

58. Forsaken Dreams by Mary Lu Tyndall

59. Widow of Gettysburg by Jocelyn Green

60. A Bride for All Seasons by Brownley, Clopton, Conneally, Hatcher

My Reading List

1.    The Memoir Project by Marion Roach

2.    How to Write a Non-fiction Book by Bobbi Linkemer

3.    The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

4.    Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

5.    Thunder in the Morning Calm by Don Brown

6.    The Book of Awesome by Neil Pasricha

7.    Love on the Line by Deeanne gist

8.    Guardian of the Flame by T.L. Higley

9.    Deadly Pursuit by Irene Hannon

10.   Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

11.   Reckless Abandon by David Sitton

12.   A Lasting Impression by Tamera Alexander

13.   In the Shadow of the Sun King by Golden Keyes Parsons

14.   A Prisoner of Versailles by Golden Keyes Parsons

15.   The Hidden Flame by Davis Bunn and Janette Oke

16.   Talk of the Town by Lisa Wingate

17.   Nobody by Creston Mapes

18.   How to Write Non-fiction in 60 Days by Paul Lima

19.   Sarai by Jill Eileen Smith

20.   Gideon’s Gift by Karen Kingsbury

21.   Fallen from Babel by T.L. Higley

22.   Marduk’s Tablet by T.L. Higley

23.   Heiress by Susan May Warren

24.   Sixty Acres and a Bride by Regina Jennings

25.   Petra: City of Stone by T.L. Higley

26.   The Rose of Winslow Street by Elizabeth Camden

27.   Summer of Promise by Amanda Cabot

28.   Prize of My Heart by Lisa Norato

29.   Glamorous Illusions by Lisa T. Bergen

30.   You Are a Writer by Jeff Goins

31.   Blue Moon Bay by Lisa Wingate

32.   Songbird Under a German Moon by Tricia Goyer

33.   Love on a Dime by Cara Lynn James

34.   Making Waves by Lorna Seilstad

35.   Courting Miss Amsel by Kim Vogel Sawyer

36.   For Better or For Worse by Diann Hunt

37.   A Cowboy’s Touch by Denise Hunter

38.   A Lady Like Sarah by Margaret Brownley

39.   Love in Disguise by Carol Cox

40.   Out of Control by Mary Connealy

41.   Love Amid the Ashes by Mesa Andrews

42.   Exploring the Fascinating Life of Jesus by Roger Ellsworth

43.   Magdalene by Angela Elwell  Hunt

44.   Michal by Jill Eileen Smith

45.   King Solomon by Phillip Graham Ryken

46.   10 Who Changed the World by Daniel Akin

47.   31 Kisses by Chautona Havig

48.   Jeanna’s Cowboy by Sarah Gillenwater

49.   Short Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer

50. The New Geneva Study Bible