Sarah Sundin's Blog, page 389

Today in World War II History—May 1, 1944

B-24 Liberator of the 705th Bomb Squadron over Orly Airfield, Paris, May 14 1944 (US National Archives)

70 Years Ago—May 1, 1944: US Eighth Air Force flies first pre-invasion mission, bombing German airfields in the Pas de Calais and Normandy areas in preparation for D-Day.

Book Beat – The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn

Tamsen Littlejohn was raised to be a proper colonial lady, but when her intended appears to be as cruel as her controlling stepfather, she’s desperate to escape her fate. Frontiersman Jesse Bird realizes the danger Tamsen is in and agrees to spirit her into the North Carolina wilderness. However, her stepfather and fiance chase after her, convincing everyone that Tamsen has been abducted. On the run, Tamsen has to adjust to the dangers and difficulties of life on the frontier, and Jesse struggles with lingering questions about his childhood and his identity – and his growing love for Tamsen.

In The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn, Lori Benton has written a gorgeous story. The historical backdrop is well-drawn and unflinchingly realistic. As a cultured young lady, Tamsen is unprepared for the ordeals she faces, but she faces them with fortitude and a willingness to learn. And Jesse is my favorite kind of hero – kind and brave and conflicted. The secret of his past creates an intriguing thread that pulled me even deeper into the story. In this novel, Lori Benton shows that her Christy Award-nominated debut novel, Burning Sky, was no fluke. Savor this book.

Today in World War II History – April 30, 1944

Japanese naval base at Truk Island after US naval air attack, 29 April 1944 (US National Archives)

70 Years Ago—Apr. 30, 1944: US naval Task Force 58 bombards targets in the Caroline Islands.

Today in World War II History – April 29, 1944

US troops unloading supplies at Aitape, New Guinea (US Center of Military History)

70 Years Ago—Apr. 29, 1944: French Resistance sabotages Dunlop factory at Montlucon. US secures Hollandia area of New Guinea, surrounding 50,000 Japanese in the Wewak area.

Book Beat – Empty Nest by Marci Seither

It happened so fast. One minute I was wrapping my baby boy in a blue blanket and bringing him home – and the next minute I was hauling all his possessions into a cramped dorm room. Now he’s graduating from college. And interviewing for Big Jobs. And he has a beard.

For so many women, our girlhood dream was to become a mommy. Then we were blessed with children. Those mommy years have been delightful (and frustrating and insane!). But motherhood is the only profession I know whose sole purpose is to put ourselves out of a job. We want our children to grow up and live productive and independent lives. Yet when the children begin to leave – a huge life transition for them – it also alters family dynamics and can leave moms feeling bereft of purpose.

Over the past few years, I’ve struggled with allowing my children to make their own decisions and their own mistakes, and to learn to trust that God’s plans are ALWAYS better than my plans. I’ve felt that deep chest ache when I pass my son’s silent room, knowing he’ll only be a visitor from now on. And I’ve felt that exhilarating joy watching him become an independent young man who honors God.

I know I’m not alone.

Marci Seither‘s new book, Empty Nest: Strategies to Help Your Kids Take Flight, came at a crucial time for me. Not only is our firstborn graduating from college, but our daughter just started college and a job, and our younger son is in high school. The Nest-Emptying is in process, challenging each member of the Sundin family.

Each chapter in Empty Nest addresses a unique aspect of the process – helping kids head to college or the military, tips for younger siblings at home, and tips for single moms and for couples. Marci Seither encourages us to choose faith over fear and to rediscover our significance as women – apart from the mommy role. The book is full of touching stories, humorous anecdotes, godly wisdom, and practical tips. This is a powerful book, full of compassion and encouragement for both mama birds and fledglings.

I highly recommend this book for moms whose nests are empty or emptying – and even for those with younger children. A major transition requires mental and spiritual preparation to handle well. Grandmas, this book would make a lovely Mother’s Day gift for daughters or daughters-in-law. This is a book that I’ll review over the years – not only for the wisdom and encouragement, but for Marci Seither’s delightful humor.

Today in World War II History – April 28, 1944

US soldiers practicing for D-Day at Slapton Sands (Library of Congress)

70 Years Ago—Apr. 28, 1944: At D-Day practice at Slapton Sands beach in England, German torpedo boats sink two American LST landing ships; 749 are killed, some by friendly fire. Merrill’s Marauders (US) and Stilwell’s Chinese troops begin offensive toward Myitkyina, Burma.

Today in World War II History – April 27, 1944

Douglas A-20 Havocs over France (USAF photo)

70 Years Ago—Apr. 27, 1944: US Ninth Air Force in England flies its first mission with Douglas A-20 Havoc light bombers.

Today in World War II History – April 26, 1944

70 Years Ago—Apr. 26, 1944: Federal troops seize Montgomery Ward plant after Sewell Avery refuses to sign with the CIO as ordered by War Labor Board; Avery carried out by National Guard soldiers.

Book Beat – Caught in the Middle

In 1883 Texas, Anne Tillerton has made a life for herself as a buffalo hunter, living and dressing as a man. The last thing she wants is a reminder of her painful past, so when she meets up with well-to-do businessman Nick Lovelace from Prairie Lea, she’s less than pleased – especially when she has to save Nick from train robbers. Nick is torn between his unexpected attraction to Anne and the demands of his benefactors. Without their railroad contracts, his lumber business would turn to sawdust. When Anne finds herself taking care of an abandoned baby, the walls she’s built around her heart threaten to crumble – and let Nick right in.

I was thrilled to read Regina Jennings‘s latest novel, Caught in the Middle. Anne Tillerton was a fascinating side character in Sixty Acres and a Bride and in Love in the Balance, and I couldn’t wait to hear Anne’s story. I wasn’t disappointed. Anne was an intriguing character with high walls protecting her wounded heart, Nick Lovelace was an interesting foil for her, and they helped each other grow – my favorite kind of romance. Nick’s ethical struggles with his business interests bring even more depth to this novel. If you like books with well-drawn characters, spiritual depth, and a touch of humor, you’ll love Caught in the Middle.

Today in World War II History – April 25, 1944

70 Years Ago—Apr. 25, 1944: US Seventh Air Force B-24s make first land-based air attack on Guam.