Joan's Books

Life is Delicious

Introduction

Enthusiastic people see and appreciate things that are otherwise unnoticed.  They get excited about sunsets, flowers that bloom, clean air to breathe, fleecy clouds and rainbows, a horse running in the wind, or a dove’s cooing.  Enthusiastic people make life “delicious.”

Being happy in a world of unhappiness is like biting into a rotten apple. The bad parts can be cut out but the flavor is still stale. Life Is Delicious is like biting into a new shiny crisp apple, while enjoying the flavor and joy of life. LIfe is a gift from a wonderful God who has given the choice of an abundant life. Reading this book will help you cover the secrets of a happy, fulfilled life and you will find that "life truly is delicious." Many special moments are glimpses of heaven, treasues to be cherished as we travel this journey. Make it delicious, not just for you, but for everyone you meet!"  Discover the secrets of a happy, fulfilled life and you will find that "life truly is delicious."

Each Day Is A Gift

Introduction

The tragedy of 9/11 forever changed our nation. Now, as never before, we need strong families. Children need a solid foundation, rooted in loving parents. A decline in culture has brought significant changes in family dynamics. Faith-filled families provide children with values and these children shape our future.

Each Day Is A Gift provides a blueprint in a family setting for affirmation, Bible study and prayer. Following these Biblical principles for living brings balance and happiness to the family unit, making it the best it can be. Next to God, families are top priority and a great resource for life’s meaning. Centuries ago, Solomon recognized the fact that the strength of families developed the strength of a nation. His wisdom still applies today. Gather the family around before bedtime and have a nightly devotional. Your “sleep will be sweet” and the blessings will last a lifetime.

From My Heart

Introduction

It is my earnest prayer that these poems "From My Heart" and the inspiration from the precious Holy Spirit will lift you up and cause your heart to sing!

There are poems to praise, poems of thanksgiving and poems to encourage.

Many of these poems have come during Communion.  Some have been written from deep pain.  Others have come from the overwhelming joy that always envelopes us despite the circumstances.  But they have all come from the hand of God to bless others.

Please find one for you!  Jesus loves you and I do too!

Give Us This Day (2nd printing)

Foreword

Since that wonderful time I have come to know the only answer to life's problems!  His name is Jesus!  It is my sincere prayer that you will come to know Him too and that you will be able to walk this earthly journey with confidence and courage, because with Him, you cannot lose!

As you go through the year with me, may His love and encouragement be upon you!

To everyone I have ever known, especially to all of my students!  I do not know where all of you are, but God does!  I claim you for His kingdom!  I love you!

Teacher, We Love Your Class

Looking over my "treasure" books and scrapbooks of thirty-one years of public school teaching made me realize that loving memories are made for sharing!

My husband, Emmitt, and I were blessed beyond measure by teaching in the public school system.  We each had thirty-one years to our credit!

Emmitt taught art in junior high and high school and later was an administrator.  I taught first, second and third grades.

Our classroom experiences were filled with excitement, enthusiasm and sometimes, very humorous happenings.  The few names that are mentioned here have been changed and any identifiable situation is written with loving memory and thanksgiving.

Seldom have people worked in employment where there has been such love and devotion.  Emmitt and I are very grateful!  There is a bonding of love between teacher and student that can never be erased.  Is this not like our Master Teacher's love for us?

It is with love, respect and gratitude that this book is written.  We give all of our success to our Heavenly Father, who answered, and is still answering, so many prayers for our students!  Come along and relive a wonderful time of our lives!

I retired from teaching in the public schools in 1993, a job I dearly loved.  The blessings were many and overwhelming.  I wanted to put something back into life for all of the many blessings God has bestowed.  Writing seemed to be the answer.

I shall never forget the day I walked into the office of the Portales News Tribune and asked if I might write a weekly column.  The editor looked over my writing credentials and graciously granted permission.  That was six years ago.

This wonderful opportunity has resulted in the publishing of most of my articles in various publications.  It has not only provided growth for me but has been a joyous experience as well.

The positive response from my readers has encouraged me and I am deeply grateful.  Many of you have said to me: "I cut out so many articles that they go torn, misplaced or lost.  Why don't you put your favorites in a book?"

This is for you Dear Readers.  You bless me!