Reading is such a favorite pastime of mine. A book, a hot cup of tea, a blanket and all is fine. I had every intention of not doing Kate’s special linkup “Books I read in 2015” but am finding myself drawn in and reading all the wonderful lists of books everyone else has read. Some I have read and others, to my delight, I never even heard of and now, I’ve begun a new “to read” list.

I found myself wanting to share and so here are a few of the books I read in 2015 (in no particular order):

1. Longing for Paris by Sarah Mae. Sometimes we find ourselves in a place in life and wish we could be elsewhere. A wonderful read when you need the reminder that you are exactly where you need to be. Full Review.
2. The Beauty of Grace by Dawn Camp. A beautiful book both in word and photos. A compilation of stories of grace from an assortment of writers sure to warm your heart when you need the reminder God’s grace is enough to meet your every need. Full Review.
3. Undone by Michele Cushatt. There is no doubt our lives take unexpected turns. This is a moving memoir which brings the message, “We may feel undone, but Jesus is never done with us.” Full Review.
4. Flash by Rachel Anne Ridge. Who knew I could fall in love with a homeless donkey I’d never met. But I did. Flash brought the sweet lessons of God’s deep love for me and reminded me that I will always find refuge in Him. Full Review.
5. Making It Home by Emily Wierenga. A memoir which bring the soul-stirring reminder that home is more than the home we live in. It is the very place where God meets us and fills us with purpose. A book club will be starting January 4th on the author’s website. Full Review.
6. You Win in the Locker Room First by Jon Gordon. An easy to read style which shares principles on leadership that will benefit anyone, anywhere. Full Review.
7. Girl Meets Change by Kristin Strong. Change does not come easily to me. This book brought the beautiful reminder to face change, “Down on our knees, lifting up our souls to Him, and giving thanks in everything.” Full Review.
8. Brave Enough by Nicole Unice. Truth be known – I scare easily and am a little scared much of the time. Every once in a while I need to tell myself, “It is His grace which makes me brave.” Full Review.
9. 4 Dimensions of Extraordinary Leadership by Jenni Catron. This is not the first book I have read by Jenni. I love how easily her words flow and the authenticity which comes through as she shares on leadership. We each need to develop in these four areas: heart, soul, mind, and strength and so, the book is truly for us all. Full Review.
10. Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman. No matter how many times I have gone through this book, it still speaks to my heart. This was my devotional book of choice this past year bringing hope, comfort, and strength each time I opened its covers.

And so, on this last day of 2015, it only seems fitting that I close with a thought from today’s devotion ….

“Thus far has the Lord helped us.” (1 Samuel 7:12)

“The Lord who ‘thus far’ has helped you
Will help you all your journey through.”

And He will be faithful to each of us in 2016.

Today I am joining … Kate Motaung and Booknificent Thursday .