Ask Mr. Language Person by Dave Barry

The other day I was substitute teaching. Many of the teachers have interesting posters with catchy sayings like "If at first you don't succeed...you are in good company" accompanied by photos of famous people who had a rough start like Abraham Lincoln and Albert Einstein. I am sure the teacher's intend these posters and print outs to inspire youth. I appreciate them as they give me something to read as I pace the room making sure no one is cheating on a test, quiz, or worksheet, or worse yet, texting in class.

Last Tuesday, I made the rounds in English class. I read article after article pertaining to the misuse of the English language. Mrs. Meester taped these to her wall in the hopes that in their free time young people would read the articles and be either encouraged (they weren't the only ones who had no clue about English) or inspired (there are others who care about dangling modifiers and a support group nearby). I personally, was moved to tears (from laughing so hard) by the Ask Mr. Language Person articles written by Dave Barry.
Dave Barry, a long time columnist with the Miami Herald, writes articles and books proving yet again that once you've mastered the English language, you can massacre it as well and get paid to do it.

So for all serious linguists, people with a passion for linguine, check out Dave Barry's Ask Mr. Language Person articles and have a good laugh.


Just another thought from the tub,

Every Thought Captive by Jerusha Clark

In Every Thought Captive, Jerusha Clark challenges women to battle the toxic beliefs that seperate them from the life they crave. Clark deals with the lies women dwell on--being good enough, worrying, getting one more thing, offending, accepting, being on fire, shaping, being overwhelmed, timing, and ultimately taking every thought captive to the what is true, lovely, pure, and right. Each chapter expounds on the different versions of the same lie and the truth that equips us to overcome that lie. Clark uses scripture, testimonies from other women, and multiple quotes to clearly explain how women can achieve not perfection but true freedom in Christ.

I appreciated Jerusha's honesty. Her heart is evident on the page. I also liked the incorporation of others stories. The use of other women's personal feelings show how alike we are as women. We share the same struggles, fears, challenges, desires, and though these things may look different on each one of us, Jesus has the answer. Clark also emphasizes that just like our struggles look different on each woman, God's answer will look different as well. Meaning that how we use God's Truth in our lives will be personalized to who we are as individuals. I would recommend this book for women of all ages. The discussion questions at the end of each chapter lend themselves beautifully to deep personal introspection or great group dialogue.

I am a blogger reviewer for NavPress.


Just another thought from the tub,

Beautiful Mess: The Story of Diamond Rio by Diamond Rio with Tom Roland

In Beautiful Mess, Diamond Rio with Roland share the true story of the arduous road traveled to bring six musicians together to form a highly successful Country music presence. Beautiful Mess follows the journey of Gene Johnson, Dana Williams, Jimmy Olander, Marty Roe, Dan Truman, and Brian Prout. The evolution of Diamond Rio saw many name and musician changes, but with hard work, determination, commitment, and faith in their music and the One who gave them the gift, they persevered to stardom.

While I enjoy country music, I am not familiar with the myriad of lesser known groups or even big names in the bluegrass or jazz genres. Because of this, I found the first part of the book hard to slog through. The different band members and the various groups they played for meant little to me and bogged down the reading. The second half of the book moved much faster and was less confusing than the first half. I appreciated the honesty of the band members and their willingness to set boundaries in their professional lives to protect their personal lives. I would recommend this book for those wanting to learn more about the struggles and hard work that go into pursuing a dream.

I am a blogger reviewer for Thomas Nelson Publishing

Just another thought from the tub,

Lori