How To Train Your Siberian Husky

How To Train Your Siberian Husky was written by Liz Palika. This non-fiction was given the "seal of approval" by ASPCA. Since my son and I watch ASPCA: Animal Cops on the Animal Planet channel faithfully, I thought this would be a good book to purchase. How To Train Your Siberian Husky is filled with excellent pictures that reinforces the ideas and concepts they are talking about. This book takes the reader through the thought process of selecting the right dog. In addition, the reader is introduced to the developmental stages of huskies. Formal training, puppy training, basic and advanced training methods are covered. Lastly, this book reminds the readers that it is important, both for you and the dog, to have fun while training.

MY TWO CENTS WORTH:
A simple, yet straight forward book about training your Siberian Husky. This book was an easy read and provided step-by-step procedures on how to train your husky.

No AR quiz.

Siberian Huskies

Siberian Huskies: A Complete Pet Owner's Mannual was written by Kerry Kern and published by Barron's. This book provides the reader with a brief history, considerations before getting a husky, and multiple tips. These tips cover understanding husky behavior, basic caring, feeding, grooming, general health, and training. Lastly, the book introduces the reader about what breeders look for when they are going down the breeding trail.

MY TWO CENTS WORTH:
As a new owner of a Siberian Husky, I have purchased a number of books regarding Siberian Huskies. This book is geared for owners who have a new puppy and it does little for those of us who start dog ownership with an older (i.e. 1-4 year old) husky. For those of you considering a Siberian Husky puppy, this is a good book to review. However, if you will be getting an older dog, I would skip this book.

No AR quiz.

Dunc's Doll

Dunc's Doll is one of many titles within the Culpepper Adventures series written by Gary Paulsen. In a nutshell, the Culpepper Adventures series is about two boys, Dunc and Amos, who seek out and solve mysteries both by calculated and accidental methods. Dunc and Amos visit a traveling antique doll show learn about a doll Charles Dicken's daughter owned. The adventure begins when the doll was stolen. Dunc and Amos set out to uncover the thief and return the doll. The boys develop a plan which includes dressing up like a girl and distracting a guard dog. Dunc's Doll will guide you through their hilarious adventure of solving the crime surrounding the stolen doll formally owned by Charles Dicken's daughter.

MY TWO CENTS WORTH:
As one of my favorite authors, I eat up anything he writes and publishes. The Culpepper Adventure series has to be one of my favorite series to read. They are short adventure packed books riddled with funny and identifiable moments. Dunc and Amos, the main characters throughout the Culpepper Adventure series, lead you through many engaging and hilarious adventures. Although Dunc's Doll is a book about a collector's doll, it is a book in which boys of all ages will enjoy reading. In fact, I am confident many readers will seek out other books within the Culpepper Adventure series so they can discover what Amos and Dunc are up to.

AR Quiz: 100%

Mr. Peabody's Apples

Mr. Peabody's Apples is a story about how words have tremendous power and influence. In this children's story written by Madonna, Tommy sees Mr. Peabody take the shinniest apple for the store without paying for it. Tommy immediately assumes that Mr. Peabody is a theif and tells all who would listen. Soon the boys who usually play baseball on Saturday don't come and play because they don't want to play with a theif. Another boy, Billy, talks with Mr. Peabody and discovers that Mr. Peabody pays for the apple and milk early every Saturday morning but picks the apple up on his way home from the baseball game. Tommy is sad he spread a rumor. Tommy appologizes, yet he doesn't quite get it. Mr. Peabody has Tommy meet him at the baseball field with his feather-filled pillow. They cut open the pillow and spread the feathers. Mr. Peabody then tells Tommy that each feather represents someone in the town who heard the rumor he spread. Tommy then realized how words can spread fast and influence other people.

MY TWO CENTS:
The story or fable is simple, yet powerful. I enjoyed its simplicity. The artwork is also fantastic.

100% on the AR quiz. ")

Three Names

The author of Sarah, Plain and Tall wrote a lovely children's book called Three Names. Three Names is a simple book about the days when children on the prairie road a wagon, a horse, a pony or walked to a one room school house. In this enjoyable story, a boy and three names (the boy's dog) loved to go to school and they missed it when school was out for the summer.

MY TWO CENTS:
The story transports me back to the days when children did attend a one room school house. I spent a moment or two reflecting on what it would be like to have a multiage classroom and try to meet the academic and social needs of the students in the class. I have to hand it to the early school house teachers, they had their work cut out for them.

Criss Cross

Lynne Rae Perkins was the 2005 Newberry Award recipient for her book Criss Cross. This is a becoming of age story that takes place during the summer months. Each chapter reveals the thoughts and youthful actions of three main boys and two main girls. They live in a small town named Seldem. Many of the five are bored with their small town and all the plain people. As the summer months pass, they begin to discover new things about the town, the people and each other. In the end, they begin to discover that the happiness many of us are searching for is right in front of you.

MY TWO CENTS:
Cute book about discovering and noticing new things about old things. I enjoyed how Lynne Rae Perkins introduced the main characters and intertwinded their lifes throughout the chapters of the book. This was a pleasant read, especially after recently finising The Sorrows of Young Werther by Goethe.

The title Criss Cross came from the radio show the five characters listened to in Leon's truck while parked in the driveway. The radio show was one of the many times these five characters paths criss crossed throughout their life.

I received 100% on my AR quiz.

Big Chickens

Big Chickens written by Leslie Helakoski is a delightful book about four chickens who were frightened away from their chicken coop due to the presence of a wolf. Their flight took them through the woods, into a ditch, to a lake, into a cow patch and then inside a cave. All along these four chickens were scared and frightened. In the end, they discovered they were filled with guts, brains and power and didn't need to be afraid.

MY TWO CENTS
Some of the simplest stories turn out to be little favorites. Big Chickens was a gift from one of my students who purchased the book during our Back-2-School Night book fair. In many ways, I related to these four chickens as they ventured out beyond the comfort and safety of their chicken coop. They were afraid of every new place and run by the thoughts that filled their minds. Although they didn't take the time to process the new information they functioned on a preconceived notion that the situation (i.e. cow patty, lake, wolf) was nothing but doomsday. It wasn't until they were corned in the cave and reluctantly faced the big bad wolf only to realize that they have strength in numbers and strength in doing something. All too often we allow fear to consume us and control our actions (or lack there of). When we face our fear, willingly or unwillingly, and deal with it head on, often times we concur the fear and realize the only thing we feared was fear itself.

Accelerated Reader Quiz: 100% ;)

Junie B., First Grader Toothless Wonder

Ms. Parks does it again. Her well known and well loved first grader, Junie B. Jones, has delighted our hearts and minds with a simple event we have all encountered at least once in our life.

Junie has been wiggling her tooth for days and it is on the verge of coming out. The first tooth is always the hardest. Its the unknown and fear can consume one's mind. Junie talks with her teacher, whom offers little comfort but praises her for being the first 1st grader to loose her tooth in his class. Junie's nemesis is jealous and makes a number of attempts to discredit this experience.

With the help of Junie's grandfather, the tooth comes out. She is scared, yet intrigued. This begins many questions and discussions about the tooth fairy, where to teeth go and why would a tooth fairy take your tooth and leave you money.

In the end, Junie puts the tooth under her pillow, gets some money and then discovers what the tooth fairy really does with a child's tooth. Sorry, I'm not telling. You'll have to read the book to find out. :)

MY TWO CENTS
This series is delightful and fun to read. The main character, Junie B. Jones, is your typical first grade girl who has a fun outgoing personality. The things she experiences and shares in her adventures are real experiences our first and some second graders face. I took the AR quiz and only got 80% correct. I need to keep working on my reading comprehension. As of this blogging, there is not a vocabulary quiz for this book.

Organizing for Dummies

Yes, Organizing for Dummies is another book from the well known series, ..... for Dummies. If I wasn't so frugal and cautious, I would have invested in this organization and made a bundle. At any rate, Organizing for Dummies is a quick and easy read. It is not rocket science but is packed with practical ideas on ways to get organized. The picture on the front of the book leads you to believe it's focus is on the physical room but there are organizational tips that apply to running a household as well as an organization (or business).

Like the "for Dummies" series, the book is organized in sections (typically 3-6). This book starts out with a brief introduction, chapter one talks about training your mind, chapter two discusses gathering the right tools and supplies to create a practical system, and chapter three talks about scheduling for maximum productivity.

MY TWO CENTS
I really like the "for Dummies" series. They are filled with facts, rich research and a ton of practical ideas. They never claim to be the answer to our problems but they provide an enormous amount of usable information. I have found that these books often times reinforce what I am already doing or painfully remind me I need to change my ways. Organizing for Dummies is a practical book that provides many time tested organizational techniques that can have a positive impact on your professional and personal life immediately.

Frankenstein

Mary Shelley was the original author of Frankenstein. As a kid growing up, I saw a variety of movies with Frankenstein but I never picked up the book to read. It wasn't until my son-in-law were having one of our many intriguing conversations about what we were reading or have read when our discussion turned to Frankenstein. Somewhere in our discussion, I told him I wouldn't be interested in the book because its about a monster that was created by a mad-scientist who then kills people. Based upon the Frankenstein movies I watched as a young lad, I had little interest to read the book Frankenstein. My son-in-law assured me that the plot of the book was no where near that of any Frankenstein movie and that the characters in the book had more depth. A week later, Sean bought the book and gave it to me as a gift and assured me I would like the book.

The book sat for some time before I picked it up and cracked the spine. The first few chapters dragged but as the characters developed and the plot thickened the chapters quickly flew by. I found that the "old" language of the 1700 - 1800's slowed me down quite a bit as I read.

As I eluded to earlier, the book was nowhere near any of the movies or built-up impressions I had about Frankenstein. As I read the book, I discovered that the individual who created the living creature from body parts of dead people was actually Mr. Frankenstein. The creature that was brought to life looked hideous mainly because he was created from body parts from a large number of dead or decaying bodies. I also discovered that Mr. Frankenstein was a man who enjoyed learning. I'd say he was borderline obsessive when it came to learning something. Once he set his mind on learning something, he devoted every waking moment uncovering its secret. One of those things he wanted to learn about was what made life. This is what lead him to discover how to create life from death.

Once the monster came to life, Mr. Frankenstein was so offended by its hideousness, he ran away. As time passed, this created creature sought out his creator seeking his acceptance. The creature was rejected by humans and rejected by his creator. The creature then sought out revenge upon his maker to entice him to create a mate who would care for him for who he was. Mr. Frankenstein, the creature's creator, would not concede. Therefore on Mr. Frankenstein's wedding night, the creature killed his wife. Mr. Frankenstein then sought out and hunted the creature in hopes to remove it from the human race.

The last chapters of the book recall the chase. Mr. Frankenstein goes to all ends of the earth (or at least near the northern end of the earth) seeking the monster. Frankenstein dies on a ship up in the Northern Hemisphere. However, before he dies he shares his life story with the captain of the ship. When all is said and done, the story you actually are reading is the life of Mr. Frankenstein as told by the ship's captain.

I really enjoyed this book and will read other classic novels because of this reading experience. Reading this book made me realize how much movies have influenced the way I perceive as well as believe something should be. Lastly, Mr. Frankenstein as well as the creature referred to three books throughout the novel. These three books apparently had a profound effect on the way both Mr. Frankenstein and the creature viewed their world. Those three books were: 1) Paradise Lost, 2) The Sorrows of Young Werther, and 3) Parallel Lives. Incidentally Mary Shelley read these three books prior to writing Frankenstein, thus influencing the development of the characters as well as the plot. In the near future, I plan to read these three books and see how they connect with Frankenstein. In fact, my son-in-law and I will be reading Paradise Lost together over the Christmas break. I'm sure we will have some lively and intriguing conversations. Here's to the journey!

The 4:8 Principal

In 2007 Tyndale House Publishers published The 4:8 Principal. The author, Tommy Newberry, has written several books and is the founder of the 1% Club. His books, speaking engagements and 1% Club utilize the 4:8 Principal to help his readers/clients to maximize their full potential with their family, their personal life, and professional life.

At the core of the 4:8 Principal is the scripture found in Philippians chapter 4, verse 8. It reads as follows:

“Finally brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8, kjv)

The book has been divided up into three simple parts. As you read through each part of the book, you get the impression that Tommy Newberry is either sitting their coaching you or he wrote the book specifically for you. He begins by helping your relook at the world around you. Our personal perception has a tremendous influence on how we interact with the world around us. In part one, the reader is introduced to a new way of thinking.

In part two, Mr. Newberry provides the reader with a new perspective on life. We are not locked into misery but we have the potential to have a life filled with joy. Emotions have a lot to do with joy and/or the lack of joy in our life. Most importantly, we do have the ability to control and/or take charge of our emotional life. Lastly, in part two, we begin to understand that those negative thoughts continue to swirl in our minds due to the fact we encourage them to stay and breed.

Part three, the final three chapters of The 4:8 Principal, reviews ways for the reader to protect and defend your heart and mind from a negative mindset. Mr. Newberry provides the reader with strategies to protect your heart, build a healthy mind, and how to live a life filled with genuine gratitude.

MY TO CENTS
I will be the first to admit, this is not a book I would pick up if I were walking through a book store or a library. Many of these types of books found in a Christian bookstore or in the Christian section at the bookstore are a bit too soupy for my. However, at the recommendation of a dear friend, I borrowed the book to read. I reluctantly picked up the book to read and discovered it was difficult to put down.

The 4:8 Principal was easy to read, written for the layman, simple to understand and highly practical. I loved the way Mr. Newberry utilized Phillipians 4:8 as a filter for one’s thinking. All too often I mumble to myself or to a good friend that I need to rebuild or retrain myself in the ways I think. This book not only provides me with the tools on how to alter the ways I think but it provides me with a multitude of practical ways to constructively change my ways of thinking. There was so much valuable information in this book I plan to read it again in two-four months just to check in with myself and make sure I am still on track for a joy filled life based upon the 4:8 Principal.

Highly recommended, worth the space on your bookshelf, and would be beneficial to a friend.

Yardsticks

Chip Wood wrote Yardsticks with parents and teachers in mind. This book is nothing more than a resource for parents and/or teachers who have children ages 4-14.

The first part of the book discusses the developmental issues affecting all children while the second part touches on major developmental considerations. The third part of Yardsticks, in my opinion, is the most valuable. In the third part of the book, there is a chapter devoted to each age level (i.e. 4, 5, 6, 7, etc…). Each of these chapters begin with a memorable quote by a well know figure. Following this quote, words of wisdom from the mouths of children at the specific age represented in the chapter, age appropriate behaviors, and lastly what a parent/teacher should see and/or expect in physical, social and academic realm of the child.

MY TWO CENTS
Although this is not a doctorate dissertation, Yardsticks speaks to the reader on layman’s terms. It is easy to understand and a quick read. For those just starting out in field of child development, parenting and/or teaching, Yardsticks is worth your time and the space on your book shelf. However, you have spent years studying child development, have 4-10 children or have taught for a zillion years, this book is not for you. You already know it all. In my opinion, this book is perfect for those who are new to the profession, parenting or simply for those who want a quick refresher course. I enjoyed the read and will put it on my recommendation list.

Victory Secrets of Attila the Hun

Victory Secrets of Attila the Hun by Wess Roberts, Ph.D. was published in1993 by Dell Publishing. This book was the long awaited sequel to Wess Roberts earlier work, Leadership Secrets of Attila the Hun. There are a total of eighteen chapters filled with Hun history and words of wisdom to the rising Hun clan. The topics cover ranged from not wasting your energy to dodging arrows to risk-taking can backfire to a few good warriors. Each chapter began with a brief history lesson and ended with Attila the Hun addressing the warriors and/or the Hun clan. The words of advise were always given in bullet form, thus easy to write down, remember and quote.

MY TWO CENTS
For the most part, I enjoy reading about leadership. I specifically enjoy reading autobiographies and biographies that have a leadership flavor to them. Victory Secrets of Attila the Hun was a fascinating read for me for three reasons: 1) I knew very little about Attila the Hun and this book contained some interesting history lessons, 2) Wess Roberts was able to use many of the actions of Attila the Hun and apply them in today’s leadership venues, and 3) Attila the Hun was a man of action not just idle words. Although some of the recommendations of Attila the Hun won’t work in all settings, I have an appreciation for the history, the stories and words of advisement.

This is one of those books that have a unique perspective and angle on leadership. Due to its uniqueness, I would recommend both of Dr. Roberts’ leadership books to occupy shelf space in your office. In addition, both of these books are excellent conversation pieces.

The Best Easy Day Hikes in Orange County

The Best Easy Day Hikes in Orange County by Randy Vogel was published by Morris Book Publishing in 1999. This pocket sized booklet is perfect for the novice Orange County hiker. This book provides the reader with a multitude of day hikes that require a minimal amount of physical excursion to hikes that require a great deal of energy. The hikes have been divided up into coastal, foothill and mountain hikes. Some of these hikes are well known areas and others are hidden gems. The booklet is well organized and easy to follow. I plan to use this book as I hike throughout Orange County with my son. As we begin our trek to experience the seven coastal hikes, eight foothill hikes, and nine mountain hikes we will mark off each hike, take scenic pictures, and enjoy hours of conversations.

MY TWO CENTS
It was worth the $6.95 plus tax for two reasons: 1) I was impatient and had to buy the book at full price at the bookstore and 2) this book has all of the local hikes that I either previously enjoyed or always wanted to enjoy. Now that I have The Best Easy Day Hikes in Orange County book, I have no excuse to sit around all day Saturday or Sunday because there is nothing to do. My son and I are ready to begin our twenty-four hike journey.

The Last Lecture

Randy Pausch with Jeffrey Zaslow wrote the book entitled, "The Last Lecture". The book has been broken up into six parts and reflects much of what Randy Pausch shared with his audience during a lecture series. In the past, this lecture series was called, The Last Lecture and selected college professors were asked to give a lecture as if it were their "last lecture". Throughout this lecture they would share their wisdom, successes, and council to those who attended the lecture. For Randy Pausch, this wasn't merely a frame to build his lecture around, it was reality. Randy Pausch was diagnosed with Pancratic cancer and given a short time to live. He looks, sounds and acts like your average healthy man but he is on the slippery road to death. Throughout the book, he provides his readers with simple, yet profound advise. This book is one I would highly recommend for men. Randy's comments, humor, humility, and humanity brings the reader to the place where things really matter....the moments we spend with those around us, specifically those we love.

Randy past away during the month of July (2008) and left behind a lovely family and a lasting legacy. He is a man who used his last months on earth to make a lasting impact on his family, friends and those still on earth. Continue to dream and seek to fulfill that dream.

If you have not read his book or seen Randy's lecture on You Tube, I highly recommend it. His book and his last lecture will occupy space on my book shelf, occupy space in my computer, and be shared in my leadership classes. May everyone who encounters his book and/or lecture benefit in a life changing way.

A Man Named Dave

David Pelzer's book, "A Man Named Dave" is the third book of his biography triology. The first book, A Child Called It, covered David's life from about five to the age of twelve years old. During this period of time, David was physically, mentally and emotionally abused in unimaginable ways. His inner strength, his dreams, the smiles, kind words and self-determination gave him the strength to survive day after day. At the age of twelve, he went to school with sever chemical burns on his body and it was then when his teacher, the nurse, the principal and the police officer risked everything to save David.

Mr. Pelzer's second book, The Lost Boy, recalled David Pelzer's years between the ages of 12 and 18. He traveled from foster home to foster home and ended up at the Turnbourgh's. Although David was out of the house where "The Mother" lived, her hand stretched out and touched his life on a daily basis. David could not get away from his mother's touch or ice cold touch. He longed for the day when his dad would contact him (i.e. in person, by phone or letter); however, his communication was extremely limited. At the age of 18, David Pelzer joined the airforce.

A Man Named Dave is the third book of Mr. Pelzer's biographical triology. This book takes us through his first marriage, the birth and youth of his son (Stephen), his years in the air force as a cook and pilot, his early years as an inspirational speaker, his divorce, and his second marriage. For those of us who have read the first two books, this book provides the answers to many of our questions about how David Pelzer turns out.

MY TWO AND A HALF CENTS:
I highly recommend these three books in their entirety for all teachers, social workers, principals, school personnel, and any other profession that works directly with children. These books provide the reader a window into the life of an abused child. The books are difficult to read due to the severity and harsh conditions David Pelzer was forced to live through. However, David is an inspiration and provides hope to all who face the unimaginable as a young child.

After reading all three books I am walking away with five main points I hope to never forget.
1. David had a dream, a vision. It was this dream, this vision that kept him focused and gave him hope.
2. David prayed to God regularly. He sought God for strength.
3. Although David was a victim, David did not fall into the victim trap. He did not wallow in self-petty. David knew that if he was going to be somebody or get somewhere, he had to make it happen.
4. The odds were against David, yet, he did not let that stop him. David pressed on despite the lack of encouragement or support. David remained laser focused. David persevered. He did not give up.
5. In order to accomplish a task, good or bad, David broke it up into manageable steps. Although he had is eye on the big picture, he knew the best way to complete the picture was one step at a time.

David, thank you for your courage and willingness to share your life's experiences with those of us who work with children. You have opened the eyes of many and have given hope to many more.

These three books will remain on my professional bookshelf for years to come.

December through June Books Read 2008

Due to my hiatus, I have not recorded anything about the books I have read. Although self inflicted guilt swirls through my brain, I will not be responding on those books. I simply do not have enough time. So, in order to appease my guilt, I will list the books I have read (actually the ones I can remember) and simply state whether I would recommend it for others to read or to just by-pass it. The books I have read were:

*Kill Fee by Gary Paulsen - Adult content not for youth. Recommend if you are a Gary Paulsen fan.
* The Big Book of How to Say It Best by Jack Griffin and Robbie Millerr-Kaplan. Recommended as a resource. Helpful for writing letters, giving speeches, and simply saying things in an appropriate manner.
* The Little Red Hen owned by A Golden Book company - One of my favorite children's stories. I often quote some of the lines from the book when the moment is right.
* The Five Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell - If you found Gary Chapman's book, The Five Love Languages, beneficial and meaningful I would recommend it.
* How to Clean Practically Anything by Consumer Reports - If you are into creative ways to save money and clean household items, then this book is for you.
* The Telling by H.L. Klun - This is the first of three books. It is an enjoyable read and recommended for those who love children's literature.
* A Child Called It by Dave Pelzer - P/M (biography).
* The Lost Boy by Dave Pelzer - P/M (biography).
* The Sisters Grimm: The Fairy-Tale Detective (book 1) by Michael Buckley - CL.
* The Sisters Grimm: The Unusual Suspect (book 2) by Michael Buckley - CL.
* The Sisters Grimm: The Problem Child (book 3) by Michael Buckley - CL.

I suspect there were more, but I didn't write them down nor save all of them. Often times, I give the books away for others to read, place them on my professional shelf or simply recycle to book (especially when it's a piece of cr@#$*%p.

July 2008 Books

It has been over eight to nine months since I have posted anything on this blog. My hiatus was due to a string of events that simply prevented me from reviewing and writing about the books I have read. Some of those events and/or variables were, but not limited to, were: a new school assignment, mentorship, a new college course assignment, my lap top was stolen, and my daughter got married. All of these events have enriched my life beyond belief but I had to slow down a little to process and given attention to these new chapters in my life.

As for the books I plan to start, complete and/or purchase this month, I have listed them below. They are not in any particular order (i.e. of interest, alphabetical by author, alphabetical by title, ect...). The list books that I am in the progress of reading, wanting to start and/or plan to purchase for future reading have been categorized in one of five categories. Those five categories are: children's literature, personal (self-helpish type books), religious, professional development, and Miss Alainius.


July books should be:

* Joy in the Journey by Guy Doud - R.
* A Man Named Dave by Dave Pelzer - P/M (biography).
* Nine Best Practices That Make the Difference by Brian Pete and Robin Fogarty - PD.
* The 4:8 Principal by Tommy Newberry - R.
* The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch w/Jeffrey Zaslow - P.
* Victory Secrets of Attila the Hun by Wess Robersts, PhD - PD.
* Frankenstein by Mary Shelley - CL.
* Princess Annie and the Magical Pendant by H.L. Klun - CL.
* The World Is Flat by Thomas L. Friedman - P.
* The Sisters Grimm: Once Upon A Crime by Micael Buckley - CL.

Books, intellectual conversations, and casual conversations all have an influence on one's thinking, actions, discussions. I look forward to the journey that lays ahead. Here's to the journey!

The Control Freak

Have you ever had controlling tendancies? Do you know a meddling manager or a pushy parent? Do you plan the day, the week, and the month for you and your family? What happens when your 15 minute trip to the store turns out to take 45 - 60 minutes because you forgot your wallet along with the list? I don't know about you but typically my heart begins to beat in my fingers, my chest tightens, and thoughts race through my mind. I am a control freak, actually according to Les Parrott III, Ph.D. I am a recovering control freak. Truth be told, I like the sound of a "recovering" control freak better than a control freak in denile. If you have issues with control, work with those who have issues with control, live with someone who has issues with control, or simply want to deal with your own issues of control, then book entitled, The Control Freak by Les Parrott III, Ph.D. is the book for you.

This book is well written and an easy read for the layman. Dr. Les Parrott III organized the book into three basic sections: 1) Who is in control? 2) Taming the control freaks around you, and 3) Controlling the control freak within you.

The first part of the book gives the reader a brief understanding of the need to control, the symbianic relationship between control and anxiety, the autonmomy of a control freak (my favorite chapter), and why control freaks act the way they do.

The second part of the book covers six common control freaks you will either encounter or are. Dr. Parrott III reviews these six control freak types, briefly describes how they evolved, and provides practical tips on how to deal with, work with, or avoid them. The six types of control freaks Dr. Parrott III writes about are: The meddling manager, the coercive colleague, the supervising spouse, the pushy parent, the invasive in-law, and the tenacious teen.

The third and last section in the book talks about controlling the control freak within. Throughout the book, the author provides the reader with self tests and assessments to determine whether they are or the person their thinking of is a control freak. This section is no different. Dr. Parrott III gives you a 13 question assessment so you can review your answers and diagnose your control freak symptoms. In his pragmatic ways, Les provides the reader with safeguards to keep you from spinning out of control, rebuilding damaged relationships, and taking charge without being a control freak.

MY TWO CENTS WORTH:

This is an easy read as well as a quick read. Dr. Les Parrott III writes for the average man. He gives hope to those of us who are spinning out of control with our need to control our environments (i.e. home, work, personal, spiritual). I highly recommend this book to anyone dealing with personal control issues or those of you struggling with working with others who have the need to control.

I have to admit, I bought this book because my life was spinning out of control. My anxiety was going through the roof. My personal life, professional life, and spiritual life were slipping out of my hands. Every time I jumped to grab the rings, I realized the rings were made of smoke. Through The Control Freak, Dr. Les Parrott III was able to help me understand that I do have an issue with control. The more I control events or things the more stable, the more comfortable, and the more I can do. However, when I begin to lose control (i.e. something does not go as planned) my anxiety begins to rise and my control tendancies kick into hyper-drive. When I am in hyper-drive, life all around me is negatively impacted. Through this book, Dr. Les Parrott III showed me that all control is not bad or counter productive. I also learned that when I or someone I work with has a strong desire to control everything, it is a sure sign that their anxiety is high (for some reason or another) and they need to control so that their anxiety will be reduced. Finally, this book has given me a new set of glasses to wear. Over the last few weeks I have been looking at people and their interactions with one another and trying to determine whether they are a control freak or someone who submits to the control freak. If I have determined they are a control freak, then I adjust my ways of interacting with them so that their anxiety drops as well as mine. Has this been successful? Not every time, but I have come to the realization that our personal and professional anxiety rises when we feel we are out of control. All in all, this book has helped me gain control of my over controlling tendencies.

I highly recommend The Control Freak by Dr. Les Parrott III. It is worthy of one's coveted bookshelf space.

Calvinism, Arminianism and the Word of God

Every now and then I find my way into a discussion about free will, grace, atonement, and election. I will be the first to admit, these are deep topics and I usually cower into the corner and let the loudest and most aggressive guy have is day. People are passionate about their beliefs and, sadly, will aggressively defend their belief because they believe they are right. Sometimes these beliefs are not scripturally based but are defended as if they are the absolute truth. At times, these beliefs create divisions among the believers so bad that the faith as a whole becomes damaged.

The book Calvinism, Arminiansim and the Word of God examines the five points of Arminianism, the Calvinist position regarding these five points (TULIP), and what the Word of God says about these five points. Chuck Smith clearly outlines the five points of Arminianism, the five points of Calvinism (TULIP), and what the scriptures say regarding those same five points. The book does not attempt to say who is right or who is wrong but utilizes the scripture to provide the reader with the necessary tools (God's word) to formulate your position.

The "Five Points of Arminianism" include the following: Free will, conditional election, universal atonement, obstructable grace, and falling from grace.

The "Five Points of Calvinism" include the following (TULIP): Total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and perseverance of the saints.

A scriptural response regarding the following points: Depravity, election, atonement, grace, and perseverance.

In the closing pages of this book, Chuck Smith sums it up beautifully when he writes: " To say what God says in the bible - no more no less - is not always easy, comfortable, or completely understandable. But Scripture tells us that the wisdom from above will be loving and kind toward all, seeking the unity of the believers, not trying to find ways to divide and separate from one another." When examining doctrine it is ok to discuss and to even have disagreements; however, it is not ok to be divisive.

MY TWO CENTS WORTH:
Although some of these topics are way over my head, I find it easier to rely on the scripture and "believe" simply because of God's word. We are all sinners, God chose me, God sent His only son to pay the price for me, God did what He did simply because He wanted to, and I am His forever. I can't explain it, rationalize it, or win an argument about it. However, I can find comfort in the multiple scriptures that support my positions. Above all, I need to seek those things that produce the loving nature of Jesus in my life rather than winning every argument.

The Claims of Christ

The Claims of Christ was written by Chuck Smith. He is the senior pastor of Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California. In a nutshell The Claims of Christ is a positional booklet. It provides the reader with Calvary Chapel's biblical position regarding the claims Jesus Christ made. Pastor Chuck Smith outlines nine claims and systematically addresses them. His arguments are well thoughtout and scriptually supported.

MY TWO CENTS WORTH:
This booklet is straight forward and pulls no punches. I would recommend this book to the guy who knows little to nothing about Jesus, I'd recommend this booklet to the guy who has gone to church on and off throughout his lifetime, and I'd recommend it to the guy who has gone to church year after year. The Claims of Christ is a short book (quick read) with a solid punch. The book makes you sit back and think, "Why do I believe in Jesus Christ?" "Can I give another man an answer for my belief in Jesus Christ?"

For years I have attended Calvary Chapel of Costa Mesa. If you were to ask me if I believe in the claims of Jesus Christ, I'd say yes and I'd go into a robotic type speech and/or explanation. However, if you'd ask me to give you biblical evidence supporting my belief, I would melt like Frosty the Snowman on a hot summer day. Chuck Smith has been a solid pastor and teacher for as long as I can remember. His approach has not changed. This no-frills booklet has hit home and has provided me with the biblical reasons as to why I believe the claims of Jesus Christ.

February Books I Hope To Read - 2008

The books I plan to start, complete, and/or purchase in the month of November have been listed below. The books that I am in the process of reading, wanting to start, and plan to purchase for future reading have been rightly notated on the list below with corresponding italicized words. Additionally, I typically have four books in the hopper (in the process of reading). These four books always fall in one of the following five categories: children's literature, personal (self-helpish type books), religious, professional development, and Miss Alainius. Although this journey may be a bit tiresome, I enjoy the adventure of learning.

February books are:

* The Control Freak by Les Parrott III, Ph.D. (P & PD)
* Improving Your Memory for Dummies by John B. Arden, Ph.D.
* Anxiety and Depression Workbook for Dummies by Charles H. Elliot, Ph.D. and Laura L. Smith, Ph.D. (P & PD)
* Tales From Solver Lands by Charles J. Finger (CL & Newberry Award)
* The man Who Was Thursday by G.K. Chesterton (MA)
* High-Maintenance Relationships by Les Parrott III, Ph.D. (PD & P)
* The Leadership Challenge by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner (completed several times but just need to post) - PD.
* The Book of John (in progress) - R.
* What's Worth Fighting for in Your School? by Michael Fullan and Andy Hargreaves(would like to start) - PD.
* Leadership and the One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard (would like to start) -PD


Books, intellectual conversations, and casual conversations all have an influence one one's thinking, actions, discussions. I look forward to the journey that lays ahead. Here's to the journey!

Calvary Chapel Distinctive

If you have ever attended a Calvary Chapel for any length of time (i.e. one time wonder, months, years, or decades) you may have sat back and pondered about how they make their decisions or what drives their decisions in relation to the church body. As I grow as a person, as a leader, and as a husband, I have become more aware of the reasoning behind my decisions/actions. Not so much whether they are right or wrong but what frames these decisions/actions. Calvary Chapel Distinctives written by Chuck Smith provides the reader with the framework and biblical support for the decisions/actions made at a Calvary Chapel.

Chuck Smith clearly indicates that all decisions made at Calvary Chapel are biblically based. Utilizing scripture, Chuck Smith shares with the reader what Calvary Chapel believes in-terms of governing the church, the empowering of the Holy Spirit, building a church, grace, the priority of God’s word, the centrality of Jesus Christ, the rapture of the church, the supremacy of love, and striking a biblical balance.

Pastor Chuck does an excellent job outlining the core beliefs of Calvary Chapel. This book provides the reader with the necessary information to gain a deeper understanding of how and why Calvary Chapel operates the way it does.

I recommend this book to those who are seeking a biblical church to attend and to those who attend Calvary Chapel and have always wondered why they do the things they do.

MY TWO CENTS WORTH
This was a book well worth reading. Although I have attended Calvary Chapel of Costa Mesa off and on since the early 1980’s, I have never sought out why they do the things they do. After reading through Calvary Chapel Distinctives, it became clear to me why Calvary believes and conducts themselves the way they do. This book has encouraged me to look within myself to determine why I believe the way I believe. I have come to realize that some of my spiritual beliefs were not biblically based but rooted in unbiblical teachings. It is important to know why I believe what I believe and be able to support it with scripture. We, as Christians, are to study so we can have an answer for every man. I appreciate Pastor Chuck’s dedication to the Word of God and his passion to equip the saints. This book is worth the self-space on your bookshelf.