Karen Ehman

The topic (watching our speech carefully) is one that each of us needs wisdom on, and I really appreciated Ehman's humor and transparency throughout the book. She told a few stories of instances where she was hurt by someone else's careless words, but mostly she shared experiences of her own failings. It was very refreshing to hear someone speak humbly in a Christian book.

I did feel that it could have been pared down just a teensy bit, and she quotes a LOT of scripture. I hate to write that as if it's a negative, but sometimes the verses she quoted were so similar (lots from Proverbs) that it seemed a little choppy, and I think certain points could have been better driven home by sticking just to one or two main verses per chapter/topic.

Overall, though, it was a good book containing lots of wise words and practical, helpful advice!… (mehr)

Subtitled "Other-Centered Living in a Self-Centered World", this Christian living title illustrates how we can love others by listening actively, showing up when someone's grieving, opening our homes hospitably, showing kindness to prickly people, and more.

Ehman effectively uses Scripture and examples from her own life (not just when she was giving, but also when she was on the receiving end) to challenge and inspire readers. There was a lot of good material here for someone looking to put their faith in action.… (mehr)

In Make Their Day, Karen Ehman presents creative ways to reach out and make a difference in the lives of others.
Some of my favorites were the book baskets (which involve gathering things that were meaningful in a book to gift along with it, including baked goods and vintage stocking stuffers such as oranges), the sneak-a-snack stations, and the "carrot" strawberries. And I enjoyed the anecdotes of how the author saw the impact that kindness had on the people she and others reached out to.
This book would be a good resource for those looking for creative opportunities to be a blessing to someone. I now want to go bake a big batch of muffins to share.… (mehr)

Let Your Light Shine!

Would you like to do something nice and unexpected for someone? Or maybe you would like to treat yourself? This little book is chock full of ideas for both those things, and everything in between. The author shares all kinds of recommendations the she has used herself.

How about throwing a random appreciation party for someone who does their job while getting little or no attention? For instance, have treats and/or drinks along with signs of appreciation to whip out when the mailman stops by with your mail. This day will long be remembered by your mail carrier.

The next time you have coffee with a friend, notice exactly what she orders, and record it. When her birthday comes around, show up at her house with her favorite cup of Joe. Not only will she be happy to have her special day remembered, she will be amazed by your thoughtfulness.

Both of these ideas, plus a lot more, will be found in this volume. In addition to all of these being nice things to do, God's love shines through them, as well. What better way to show love to others than by visibly demonstrating it through acts of kindness?

I recommend this 5-star book to everyone that likes to do thoughtful things for others. Make sure to keep your copy in an easy place to find, that way it will always be on hand when you want to bless someone!

Bethany House Publishers has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Make Their Day, for the purpose of review.… (mehr)