Sunday, November 20, 2011

on giving thanks...sunday edition



 ‎As long as thanks is possible... 


then joy is always possible.


Ann Voskamp ~ One Thousand Gifts







I've been wanting to do a post on this for quite awhile now. 

 My words are inadequate so I'll let this review do the talking.



This book cut straight to the heart of loss 

and asks the questions you are afraid to ask.

 It goes straight to the issues.  

Just like you, 


Ann Voskamp hungers to live her one life well

Forget the bucket lists 

that have us escaping our everyday lives 

for exotic experiences.


'How,' Ann wondered, 'do we find joy in the midst of 

deadlines, debt, drama, and daily duties? 

What does the Christ-life really look like 

when your days are gritty, long--and sometimes even dark?



 How is God even here?'


In One Thousand Gifts

Ann invites you to embrace everyday blessings

 and embark on the transformative spiritual discipline 

of chronicling God's gifts. 

It's only in this expressing of gratitude 

for the life we already have, 

we discover the life we've always wanted...

a life we can take, 


give thanks for,

 and break for others. 

We come to feel and know the impossible 

right down in our bones: 


we are wildly loved--by God.






Let Ann's beautiful, heart-aching stories 

of the everyday 

give you a way of seeing 


that opens your eyes to ordinary amazing grace

a way of being

present to God that makes you deeply happy, 

and a way of living that is finally fully alive. 

Come live the best dare of all!










I love this book.  


After my Bible, it is probably the 2nd most 


influential book I have read in my adult whole life.






Truly, it is life-changing.




I have an extra copy that I bought just for you. 



It will change  your life, too.




Or maybe, you already have it 


and would like a copy to give away.




Either way, leave me a comment on this post to win.


Put it on  your blog for a second chance.


You know how it goes.








Giveaway will end next Sunday, Nov. 27








Join me in giving thanks...


this week I will be sharing a few of my favorite quotes...

73 comments:

Lori @ Katies Rose Cottage Designs said...

Renee I have been wanting to read this book for quite awhile! I am glad to hear what your thoughts are on it ~ It sounds awesome!

Kathy@ Gone North said...

I have been wanting to read this book. Thanks for the chance.
Blessings......... K.

Anonymous said...

Oh, the book sounds inspiring! I would love to win it!

Shine said...

Hi Rene! I do love this book so. I am reading through it, but alas...it's a library copy...so... I'd love to have my own copy:) Love your beautiful photos, and today...I am very thankful that I happened upon Miss Gracie's House:) Blessings~~Shine

Pamela Gordon said...

This is such a beautiful book! Thanks for sharing it in your posts and for your giveaway. I do have a copy but would love to give it as a gift to my beautiful daughter should I win. Thanks! And blessings to you. Pamela

Priscilla said...

Thank you for sharing on your blog. This book sounds wonderful and I know of a young lady that would truly benefit from it.

Angela said...

Sounds like a wonderful book, one maybe I should be reading at this time. You see, I lost my mother on Nov.9th and I have been fighting a battle inside ever since. She was 90 years old and I was blessed to have her in my life for such a long time. I am good with the fact that it was her time to go. God answered my prayers right up until she drew her last breath. She was an only child, So was I , and now I feel so alone. I want to be the best I can be, to my only daughter, and my only grandchild, and the best wife possible to my loving husband of 38years. It's a struggle right now especially with the holidays coming up. This might be a God send. Thanks for hosting this giveaway. Have a blessed week ahead, as we all have so much to be thankful for.
Angela

Blessed Serendipity said...

This sounds like a really good book and one I would really love to read. Please count me in.

xo,
Danielle

Patty said...

It is also one of my favorite books. I just happened on your post through a pinterest link. If I won I'd be sharing the book with someone.

Anonymous said...

I've never heard of this book and would love to discover its power to inspire. Thanks for the chance.

Abby

Unknown said...

I adore this book! It IS life changing. I am not trying to say it replaces the bible but definitely earns a place in my heart with it. Thank you for sharing this post and spreading the joy this book has to offer. It may not sound like there is going to be joy on the first page but by the time you get to the last you can't help but be filled with joy and God's grace and love. Check out her website for her e-newsletter - it is awesome too! xxoo Heidi

Weisser Traum said...

oh guten morgen
bin soeben auf deinen blog gekommen.
traumhaft die blumendeko.
wünsche dir einen schönen tag.
sei lieb gegrüsst daniela

Adrienne said...

I am giving thanks - more and more because of this book. I agree that it has changed my life, too.
~Adrienne~

Peggy said...

I would love to win this book!Please enter me in the contest!
Peggy

skye said...

I absolutely trust your word & would be privileged to receive this book.
Thank you for the chance to win.

Skoots1moM said...

wildly loved by God...love it!
would certainly love to win this
thanx for sharing!

Skoots1moM said...

i added a link to your post/blog from my last blog post ;)

http://skootsonemom.blogspot.com/2011/11/really-random.html

Barbara Jean said...

Oh it looks like a wonderful book sweetie.
Tank you for the opportunity to win one.
blessings and Happy Thanksgiving.
We have much to be thankful for.

barbara jean

the old white house said...

Rene~ What a beautiful post, I really must read this book now! I am looking forward to your posts of quotes from the book. i think joy is a gift you give yourself and once you do it's easy to give it to others as well.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
t.xoxoxooxxo

the old white house said...

Your giveaway button is now on my sidebar! Thanks again for the chance to win! t.xoxoxo

trash talk said...

One thing I am most thankful for is how God continues to speak to me just when I least expect it. Yesterday I was discussing with a friend the little things we forget to say thank you for..the simple that we take for granted. This morning I click over here for a visit and find this. He does make His presence known and your gentle reminder is one way. Thank you for the review and your generous heart.
Deb

Teri said...

I ran across that book on Amazon awhile ago, it looked interesting, thanks for sharing your thought on it.
I'll put it on my wish list ~

FlowerLady Lorraine said...

I have been impressed so much by glimpses into this book and it is on my wish list, so it would be wonderful to me if I won this book from you. Time will tell.

I've been thankful for much in my life, even the small inconsequential things, but Ann's way of writing so touches my heart.

Thank you for hosting this give away.

FlowerLady

P.S. May you and your lovely family have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Kelly said...

I would really love to have a copy of One Thousand Gifts. I just recently became an empty nester so I am feeling a little useless. I love following your beautiful blog site. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.

Sweet Old Vintage said...

Inspiration can always enhance ones life.... Have a blessed Thanksgiving with your family....

HillHouse said...

I would love to have a chance to read this book, I love how the Lord speaks to us all in so many different ways.

Unknown said...

What a wonderful idea..sharing thankfulness...thanks so much. It looks wonder full!

Cottage 1945 said...

What a wonderful post. I would love to have that book in my library. Sometimes we all just need reminding...

Speaking of a giveaway, I've got one going on over on my blog as well. I'd love for you to stop in if you get a chance.

Adrienne Davis said...

This may be exactly what I need. I'm a pastors wife who is sooo discouraged right now. I feel terrible but I am finding very little to be thankful for. Our church is about ready to shut it's doors- there just isn't the money coming in to keep it open. To many families could not get along and left. Sigh.... Thanks for giving me the chance to win.
Blessings

Sandi~A Cottage Muse said...

This sounds wonderful, thanks for the chance Rene!

Anne said...

I don't have a blog so my chances of winning are probably a bit low.But I will take a chance.I have been wanting to check this book out ever since I saw you mention it on your blog.I am Christian but I feel I have not been faithful to my faith as I should be.It sounds like this book is an eye opener and probably what I need to get closer to God.I am keeping my fingers crossed.

Leah C said...

Oh yes it is a life-changing book...loved it!!

stefanie said...

i have never heard of it, would be delighted to read it, thanks so much!

NanaDiana said...

I have never heard of it...but I do believe it is a book I would cherish. Thanks for the opportunity to win. xo Diana

Darla P. said...

I have heard great things but haven't read it yet. Thanks for the recommendation and the chance to win!

Sheila Rumney said...

I have read this book and just love it! It sure makes you think.

Seawashed said...

Guess what? I don't have it yet. Thank you for giving us a chance to win it. happy thanksgiving to you.

Seawashed said...

I am adding it to my blog sidebar.

Holly said...

I have heard nothing but positive and inspirational reviews of this book. It has definitely found its way onto my to buy and read list. Thanks for the chance and I hope it blesses the winner!!!

Deb said...

I think the cover of "One Thousand Gifts" is one of the loveliest ever ♥ Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy!

Ticking and Toile said...

Looks like a wonderful book! One of my favorite sayings is "The key to having it all is knowing that you already do" Sounds like this book is right up my alley. We all need to be reminded of this....especially me <3

xo,
Shellagh

Diane said...

I bought it after you mentioned it on one of your posts. It IS life changing. I'd love to have another one to pass on so count me in too. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Renee. Diane

FRENCH LAUNDRY said...

Sounds wonderful. And I'm sure I could use it's wisdom.

Thanks for the chance,
Judy

Stephanie said...

Wonderful giveaway - thanks!

Sandi said...

I am in the process of reading that book, but would love one to give away! I need to find some quiet time by myself to finish it!!
Blessings~

Rebecca said...

Well, I'd be thrilled to win it, too. THANK YOU for such a generous GiveAway! And Happy Thanksgiving.

Anonymous said...

I would love to read this book please enter my name into the drawing. thank you!! Nancy Settel sheepishgrin92@yahoo.com

CeCe said...

This book sounds like it should belong to each and every human on the planet. I will plan to purchase it for at least this human if I am not fortunate enough to win. Thanks, Renee

Trisha said...

I have heard so many wonderful things about this book and would love a chance to read it! Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

~Trisha

Deanna said...

Howdy from Kansas!
OH YES...I WOULD LOVE TO RECEIVE THIS BOOK!!!!
AND READ HER!!!!!!!

Bless enter me as someone who wants to win this.
God Bless,
d

vicki p said...

This looks like an inspirational read that I would cherish! I'm glad you have recommended it and blessings to you and your family~
Vicki

Unknown said...

Dear Rene,
Thank you for offering such an inspirational book to your readers. I so much enjoyed your guest post at my blog. What a blessing!
Hugs,
Mary

Olwyn Hughes said...

thanks for the chance to win such a beautiful book - my fingers are crossed!

Cindy @ Dwellings-The Heart of Your Home said...

Sounds wonderful Rene, thanks for the chance to win!
Blessings,
Cindy

Jessica said...

Wow, this book does sound wonderful!
Happy Thanksgiving!

Raspberries and Rose Petals said...

Looks like a beautifully inspiring book, Renee! Thanks for the chance to win!

Hope you have had a blessed Thanksgiving!

Hugs!
Lori

Raspberries and Rose Petals said...

This book sounds so good that I had to share about your give-away on my blog! Thanks again for the chance to win!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Hugs!
Lori

Sue K said...

This truly looks like a beautiful, inspirational book. I would be thrilled to be lucky enough to win it. Anyone would....
In this day and age, we all can use some inspiration to get through each day.
hugs, Sue K

saltbox
treasures
said...

Thanks for letting us know about this wonderful book. Have a great day!
~ Julie

Anonymous said...

Hopefully I'm not to late to be entered. Sounds like a lovely book. If I don't win, maybe I can purchase.

Ruth @ White Whimsy said...

What a wonderful giveaway. Sounds like a book I will have to read.

d e l i g h t said...

Sounds like a great book and I love the photo on the cover. A thoughtful giveaway.

Anonymous said...

It sounds wonderful,i have never heard of it before.
I travel a path that often has me lost and i need and love guidance,so keeping my fingers crossed.
xxx

Crystal Rose Cottage said...

If I would win this book I have someone in my life who has had a very rough year. She could really use the inspiration. Thanks for the chance! ~Hugs, Patti

Wendy@Once upon a rose haven said...

I love inspirational books and this book sounds wonderful. Thanks for the chance.
Blessings,
~Wendy

Angela said...

I would be very thankful to win this giveaway. I heard the book is incredible!

Glenda Mitchell said...

Your blog is one of my favorites --- so inspiring! This book sounds absolutely amazing and just what I need at this time in my life. Thank you.

Lee said...

I loved reading about the book. I just discovered Margaret Feinberg. She is amazing at helping you find God. Catch Margaret if you can. Aren't we blessed everyday. Would love to win the book.

Gracie's Cottage said...

I'm not familiar with it but it looks great!


Jan

Maison Douce said...

Oh, it sounds like a wonderful book... Thanks so much for this sweet giveaway!
Isabel

The Feathered Nest said...

Hi sweet girl, I would LOVE to be entered to win this book!!! You are an angel for giving a copy away ~ I hope you are doing wonderful, hugs and love, Dawn

Anonymous said...

It looks like a beautiful book. I would love the chance to read it. Thanks for sharing.

Unknown said...

What a beautiful book, and a beautiful blog!