life beyond the well…

Author Archives: erin.almond


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2015 Book List

I love to read.  Since I was a kid, reading has been one of my favorite ways to pass time.  Preacherman and I have a ridiculous number of books in our home, and we can’t seem to stop adding to the collection.  Unfortunately, other than reading the Bible, blogs, and news articles, I haven’t had time for much book reading.  It’s something that makes me sad, and that I’ve committed to fixing for 2015.

I took some time during the latter part of 2014 to create my 2015 book list.  I’m pledging to read all of the books listed below, and if I’m lucky, I’ll be able to squeeze in a few more.  Here’s what we’re looking at (in no particular order):

  1. Instinct by T.D. Jakes
  2. Make it Happen by Lara Casey
  3. Purpose Awakening by Touré Roberts
  4. Start with Why by Simon Sinek
  5. Talk Like Ted by Carmine Gallo
  6. The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg
  7. The Marshmallow Test by Walter Mischel
  8. Hand to Mouth by Linda Tirado
  9. The Best Yes by Lysa TerKerst
  10. Rhythms of Grace by Kerri Weems 

I’ll also be reading The Bible again, and I plan to re-read Rick Warren’s The Purpose Driven Life.  While I’m excited about reading all of the books listed above, I’m probably most excited to dig into The Best Yes by Lysa TerKerst.  I’ll be reading it with one of my college best friends, and I’m looking forward to the growth that comes through sharing and accountability.

So, there you have it- my plan to get back in the act of reading for enjoyment.  I’ll keep you updated on how it’s going!

What are you reading this year?

Be encouraged!  Peace and blessings!


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Recapping 2014

I can hardly believe how fast 2014 has passed.  I have such vivid memories of last New Year’s Eve, that I find it hard to understand that we’re at another one.  As I get older, I find this saying to be more and more true: “The days are long, but the years are short.”

This year has been nothing short of amazing.  Preacherman and I continue to fall more in love with Jacksonville, the people, and our hearts are broken for the city.  We are so excited to be here and to be used by God to reach others for the Kingdom.  Though there are times where we find ourselves missing North Carolina, our family, our friends, and all the great restaurants we love; we are enjoying the challenges of getting acclimated to a new city, making new friends, and finding new restaurants to love.  I’m finally starting to find my way around to the point of not requiring Google Maps directions everywhere I go.  A new grocery store has opened up closer to home that allows me to get fresh salmon weekly.  Our little one started kindergarten this year and continues to amaze us.  Small victories, but victories nonetheless.  We are truly blessed.

And now we gear up for 2015.  We are praying and believing for God to move in us and through us like never before.  2015 will be a landmark year in our lives, and I’m looking forward to watching things unfold!

Believing God’s best for you and yours in 2015!

Be encouraged!  Peace and blessings!