Sarah Sundin's Blog, page 492
January 5, 2012
That Space Was Mine
That parking space was mine. I'd waited for it. Then that big red SUV zipped in and took it. Grr.The lady with the full shopping cart who cuts in front of you in the grocery line. The boss who takes credit for your hard work. The soccer coach who sidelines your child for more than her fair share of the game.Life presents lots of situations when we lose what's rightfully ours. The human instinct is to fight for what we've lost. But what does God want us to do?Several thousand years ago, Isaac built a well in the desert. His neighbors took it. He moved away and built another. His neighbors took that one too. He had every right to be upset and fight for that well.He didn't. Isaac moved away and built another well.This time no one took it. This time the leader of the enemy acknowledged, "'We saw clearly that the Lord was with you'" (Gen. 26:28), and he begged for a peace treaty.Ironically, by backing down, Isaac won. By refusing to fight, Isaac gained peace. By trusting God to provide, Isaac allowed God's glory to shine through. Perhaps Jesus knew what He was talking about when He said, "'Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also'" Matthew 6:39.Of course, this is much easier to say than to do. How can you implement this concept today?
Today in World War II History
70 Years Ago—Jan. 5, 1942: In the Philippines, US & Filipino forces complete retreat into Bataan peninsula. In US, "enemy aliens" are required to surrender transmitters, shortwaves, and precision cameras.
January 4, 2012
Today in World War II History
70 Years Ago—Jan. 4, 1942: Japanese begin air attacks on the major British naval and air base of Rabaul in the Bismarcks.
January 3, 2012
Today in World War II History
70 Years Ago—Jan. 3, 1942: Japanese land in Brunei on Borneo in East Indies. Gen. Chiang Kai-shek named Commander in Chief of Allied Forces in China.[image error]
January 2, 2012
Favorite Books of 2011
Nothing says New Year's like a list! Here are my favorite fiction reads from 2011 in alphabetical order. It's hard enough to pick only ten, much less rank them. Sadly, many lovely novels taunt me from my to-be-read pile.
Broken Wings
by Carla Stewart: Beautifully written with great voice, Broken Wings tells the story of a touching friendship between a young woman trying to escape an abusive relationship and an elderly woman who was a jazz singing sensation. This book handles tough subjects with honesty and sensitivity, and still manages to warm your heart.
The Colonel's Lady by Laura Frantz: There's a reason this novel appears on so many Top Ten lists this year - gorgeous prose, the danger of the Kentucky frontier during the Revolutionary War, and compelling characters. Plus, the most beautiful book cover of the year, in my opinion.
A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad: A grand slam! In a story as refreshing and invigorating as lemonade, Seilstad raises deep questions about a woman's relationship with God, her dreams, and the people in her life - while making me laugh so hard my kids came running to get in on the joke.
Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer: When I saw the cover of this novel, I knew I had to read it. I was not disappointed. Adelaide Proctor is a funny and lovable heroine, Gideon Westcott is both dashing and flawed, their romance drew me in, and the suspenseful second half of the novel made me neglect my household duties.
A Lancaster County Christmas by Suzanne Woods Fisher: A holiday story with depth. Mattie and Jaime are hampered by fears and insecurities many women can relate to. Their friendship and personal growth is as natural and unforced as it is unlikely. This story not only gives you the heart-warming story you expect from the cover, but it also gives you plenty to think about.
Love Finds You in Homestead, Iowa by Melanie Dobson: More than just another "bonnet book" - this story features endearing but realistically flawed characters, a captivating romance, and a hint of mystery. Add Dobson's detailed research into the little-known Amana colonies, and you have a thoroughly enjoyable novel.
Mine Is the Night
by Liz Curtis Higgs: A completely satisfying conclusion to Here Burns My Candle. The rich character growth, Scottish setting, impeccable research, and not just one romance - but three! Higgs writes historical fiction of the highest quality, and I can't recommend her books enough.
Remembering Christmas by Dan Walsh: Walsh writes this story with humor and a fun bit of attitude - and still writes a heartwarming tale. The story delighted me, and one twist completely surprised me. Realistic and lovable characters - even shallow Rick - and the refreshing Florida beach town setting make this a memorable Christmas story.
When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin: Beautifully written, as are all of Martin's novels. The characters are real and intriguing, and the story was engaging.
While We're Far Apart by Lynn Austin: A beautifully told World War II Home Front story with interesting characters. I appreciated the truthful and sensitive acknowledgement of anti-Semitism in wartime America.
What were your favorite novels from 2011?[image error]
Broken Wings
by Carla Stewart: Beautifully written with great voice, Broken Wings tells the story of a touching friendship between a young woman trying to escape an abusive relationship and an elderly woman who was a jazz singing sensation. This book handles tough subjects with honesty and sensitivity, and still manages to warm your heart.
The Colonel's Lady by Laura Frantz: There's a reason this novel appears on so many Top Ten lists this year - gorgeous prose, the danger of the Kentucky frontier during the Revolutionary War, and compelling characters. Plus, the most beautiful book cover of the year, in my opinion.
A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad: A grand slam! In a story as refreshing and invigorating as lemonade, Seilstad raises deep questions about a woman's relationship with God, her dreams, and the people in her life - while making me laugh so hard my kids came running to get in on the joke.
Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer: When I saw the cover of this novel, I knew I had to read it. I was not disappointed. Adelaide Proctor is a funny and lovable heroine, Gideon Westcott is both dashing and flawed, their romance drew me in, and the suspenseful second half of the novel made me neglect my household duties. 
A Lancaster County Christmas by Suzanne Woods Fisher: A holiday story with depth. Mattie and Jaime are hampered by fears and insecurities many women can relate to. Their friendship and personal growth is as natural and unforced as it is unlikely. This story not only gives you the heart-warming story you expect from the cover, but it also gives you plenty to think about. 
Love Finds You in Homestead, Iowa by Melanie Dobson: More than just another "bonnet book" - this story features endearing but realistically flawed characters, a captivating romance, and a hint of mystery. Add Dobson's detailed research into the little-known Amana colonies, and you have a thoroughly enjoyable novel.
Mine Is the Night
by Liz Curtis Higgs: A completely satisfying conclusion to Here Burns My Candle. The rich character growth, Scottish setting, impeccable research, and not just one romance - but three! Higgs writes historical fiction of the highest quality, and I can't recommend her books enough.
Remembering Christmas by Dan Walsh: Walsh writes this story with humor and a fun bit of attitude - and still writes a heartwarming tale. The story delighted me, and one twist completely surprised me. Realistic and lovable characters - even shallow Rick - and the refreshing Florida beach town setting make this a memorable Christmas story.
When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin: Beautifully written, as are all of Martin's novels. The characters are real and intriguing, and the story was engaging. 
While We're Far Apart by Lynn Austin: A beautifully told World War II Home Front story with interesting characters. I appreciated the truthful and sensitive acknowledgement of anti-Semitism in wartime America. What were your favorite novels from 2011?[image error]
Today in World War II History
70 Years Ago—Jan. 2, 1942: British and South Africans take Bardia, Libya after a long siege. Japanese take Manila in the Philippines as well as Clark Field and Cavite naval base. FBI convicts 33 members of a German network in the largest espionage case in US history.[image error]
January 1, 2012
Today in World War II History
70 Years Ago—Jan. 1, 1942: Twenty-six Allied nations sign the "Declaration by the United Nations" in Washington. US discontinues automobile manufacturing for the duration; 500,000 in stock. Rose Bowl held at Duke in Durham NC due to ban on large gatherings on the West Coast (Oregon State defeats Duke 20-16).[image error]
December 31, 2011
Today in World War II History
70 Years Ago—Dec. 31, 1941: US and Filipino forces form new defense line north of Bataan Peninsula. Japanese shell islands of Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii. U-boats first spotted in US waters.[image error]
December 30, 2011
Today in World War II History
70 Years Ago—Dec. 30, 1941: Rommel retreats to El Agheila, Libya and positions held before his April offensive against the British. Gandhi resigns from leadership of India's Congress Party when it decides to support Britain. First Liberty Class cargo ship, SS Patrick Henry, launched from Kaiser Shipyards, Richmond CA.[image error]
December 29, 2011
Today in World War II History
70 Years Ago—Dec. 29, 1941: British evacuate from British Borneo to Dutch Borneo. Japanese bomb Corregidor for first time.
