>This is the final entry in my series about "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming Discerning Readers."We've defined some terms, discussed why we need to be reforming our perspectives, looked at specific strategies for becoming more discerning readers, and examined basic elements of fiction and some literary techniques. In this post, we'll explore options for learning … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Exploring

> This is the fourth entry in my series on "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming Discerning Readers." Earlier entries have defined some terms, looked at reasons why we need to be reforming our perspectives, and discussed "The Four Rs" of becoming more discerning readers.This entry will examine some of the most basic elements of fiction … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Examining

>This series on "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming a Discerning Reader" has defined some terms and looked at reasons why Christians need to be reforming their perspectives on literature. This entry will suggest specifics for becoming more discerning readers.As a lifelong reader with a longtime interest in literature, I've gradually grown in my appreciation for … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Discerning

> Yesterday's post on "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming Discerning Readers" defined the terms reforming, perspectives, literature, and what is meant by discerning readers.Today's post will deal with the specifics of "Reforming" by first asking: Why do we need to be reforming our perspectives on literature?There are probably many reasons why modern readers need to … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Reforming

> On Friday April 23, I spoke to the Covenant Women Bible study group of our church, comprised primarily of young moms, about "Reforming Perspectives on Literature: Becoming Discerning Readers." Since several other people have expressed an interest in hearing about the subject (in person and online), I will blog through the basic presentation, making … Continue reading >Becoming Discerning Readers-Defining

>Please excuse my recent absence; my husband and I have been busy waiting for and welcoming our fourth grandson: Layton Ryan Sponsler. He was born on Good Friday, April 2, weighing 8 lbs., 2 ozs. and measuring 20 1/2 inches. Grandpa Mathes Layton's parents are proud and happy. Here is their first family portrait.My parents … Continue reading >Grandbaby

>Brightly colored sticky notes are strung along the shelf edges on the hutch above my computer monitor. I'd been having trouble keeping track of all my different projects, so now I write each new project on a sticky note and post it in front of my work area.I just posted the 21st sticky note. It's … Continue reading >Project notes

>For weeks I've been longing for a steaming cup of Bigelow's Vanilla Chai tea.I can't buy it in any local stores, but I ordered some online many months ago. That supply went quickly and all winter I've been thinking how nice it would be to start my day with that aromatic tea. A significant portion … Continue reading >Hidden Chai

>He's done it at last! My "book boy" Matthew One has left home! He's off to the windy city to try to find his place in the world.I'm praying that he will pass his spring audition and receive a spot in the cast of next year's publishing show. If you're moved to join in that … Continue reading >Matthew One leaves home

>[The following story will appear in the February 10 issue of Christian Renewal.]Treasures from Haitiby Glenda MathesWhen Les and Tracy Fuller’s church offered to begin a prayer initiative in the hope of jump-starting the couple’s stalled adoption process, the Fullers chose January 24 as the start date since that would be the birthday of one … Continue reading >Treasures from Haiti