Let's Talk About Books: My TBR Books

I have a TBR shelf. Most people do. Mine has a stack of books in different genres. Some of them have been sitting there for a while, and some are newer. I plan to read all of them at some point. I don't know when I'll get around to all of them (I promise, someday!), but I have a solution to make my choosing easier. I recently purchased a glass jar that came with some small rolled-up paper. It's a genius idea! Why? It works by writing down all of your TBR books on the little wrapped-up paper. Once you've done that, you roll it back up and place it in the jar. When you're ready to pick a new book to read, you simply pull out a paper. The fun thing is that it's random. You don't know what book you're going to read next. 

Honestly, I really like this, because I can have a hard time choosing which book to read from my TBR. I have so many random books. I have a book about owls, the book, To Kill A Mockingbird (which I haven't read yet), and one about the treasure of Oak Island. So random. Haha. I guess I just really like different things. Most of the time, my brain is all about mysteries (not crime), lost treasures, exploration, Aztecs and Mayans, and then, owls. I love the unknown! Makes sense since my enneagram is 5w6. (What's yours?). I don't think like other women my age. I don't like reading much romance. I like adventure, books with information/facts in them, and the classics (my favorites). I often feel alone in this!:(

Maybe I'm just strange. I never did fit in as a kid. I was quiet and serious. I always believed that life had to be taken seriously. I was always the weird kid. And I still don't fit in!! My likes and dislikes are different from other people. I don't follow the crowd. I do my own thing. Maybe that's my problem. But to be honest, I've grown to like it. I may never be in a group of women who like girly stuff. It's not me, and I refuse to fit in. Sure. I do like pink, but I also like black. Does anyone else feel the same way? Sorry, I'm getting off course. Back to my books! I haven't tried the glass jar with paper yet. I'm currently reading a new book and two audiobooks. But when it's time, I'll give it a go. AHH! I love reading!!! 💓

If you like the glass jar I got, you can get one from Temu here. I know. I shop from Temu. I've not had any problems with Temu. I've made many purchases from them. So, if you don't like Temu, you may be able to find something similar from somewhere else. But I don't actually know. I just saw it on Temu, and I had to have it. And it's the first time I've seen something like this. Personally, I think it's so cool! I can't wait to plow through my shelf and read all of the books! Now, I'll make it random with my little glass jar, and I'll finish them. Darn it. I'll conquer that mountain of books! One day! *What is your TBR shelf like? 📖

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Book Spotlights: Arrow

Synopsis: Arrow

It was late in the day when the exploratory team headed by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark stumbled upon the native village of Yaxtoin, along what is now called the Clearwater River, on their journey to the Pacific Ocean. The explorers announced their arrival in dramatic fashion, wrecking one of their canoes in the rapids just below the village. Aided by a nearby native resident, they dragged their wet belongings onto dry land and set up camp. The date was October 8, 1805, and place now called Arrow had just been discovered. The expedition enjoyed the hospitality of the villagers that night and stayed until October 10, when their provisions were dry enough for travel. On their return trip in 1806, they presented a Jefferson Peace Medal to Chief Cut-Nose of Yaxtoin. In 1898, railroad construction crews would find this medal, wrapped in buffalo hide, in an indigenous grave at Arrow. With the opening of the Nez Perce Reservation to outside settlement, Yaxtoin became the bustling railroad crossroad of Arrow Junction, Idaho. At one time it boasted a steamboat dock, church, school, and store. It was upon this incidental stage that a community of shared cultures lived, loved, suffered, and rose above its own human drama. Longtime Arrow resident and author Pam Thorson has spent nearly three decades researching the rich history of this community. In this, the first of two volumes, she presents her discoveries.

You can find this book in kindle and paperback on Amazon and at ...And Books, Too!

About: Pam Thorson

Pam Thorson is a nurse, full-time caregiver, speaker, and author of four books: Song in the Night; Out from the Shadows: 31 Devotions for the Weary Caregiver; Arrow: the History and People of an Idaho Community, and Blood Falls. She is a regular contributor for the Christian music website CMADDICT.com. Pam lives in the Northwest with her family. You can also find her on Facebook and her website bloodfalls.net. 

*Grace Thorson* Some of my local photography is included in this book.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Business Spotlights: Hobby Lobby

It was July 4th. I went shopping with my Mom that day. Since it was a new place, we decided on Hobby Lobby. I had heard good things about Hobby Lobby, and so, we both went to check it out. Going in, I was especially eager for their Autumn decorations. I know. I know it was still summer. But when summer comes each year in my life, all I can think about it Autumn. And of course, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. It's just my favorite time of the year. Anyways, we made our way in and walked down the aisles. So many things to look at! I was overwhelmed with excitement. Mom felt the same way.

Walking through, I noticed that the store was huge. It made me a little nostalgic because JCPenney used to be there in that same place. I used to do a lot of my shopping at the old JCPenney. It was my go-to place for clothes. Now, it's Hobby Lobby. While I miss JCPenney, I was and am happy to have Hobby Lobby. Hopefully, it'll bring more business to the mall where I live. Because there just isn't much left. I don't know if other malls are suffering the same way, but they used to be the place to visit when I was young. When most of the shops left the mall, I rarely stopped by. With Hobby Lobby here, I'll be more frequent. 💓

While looking around, I noticed there were Bibles and Christian books. I know that the owners of the Hobby Lobby chain are supposedly Christians. I think that's so awesome, especially to see that they had books and Bibles. This was comforting to see! And they had so many other products to look through. I walked with my Mom through the aisles. We found so much! I picked out a glass with a lid and straw - which was pink (one of my favorite colors is pink). I also grabbed a popcorn bucket, because my most-loved night-time snack is popcorn! We were both pretty satisfied as we plopped items into our cart.

I found some nice home-decor items for my place, too. I got a mat that has a bird design on it. A bird picture to hang on my wall in the living room. A lovely art piece for my cherry blossom bedroom. I got a few more things, as well. My Mom did, too. She found some items perfect for her. After a while, I kind of wandered on my own. I was eager to check out the Autumn stuff, since I knew they had it out. Indeed, when I found that section, I was in a wonderful mood. I picked out two candles and a few more things ready for the end of August (that's when I decorate). My Mom joined me. We were done shopping.

We left Hobby Lobby feeling good. Our first impression was that it's fun and a great store to find useful things for the home. I plan on shopping there a lot, especially for holiday stuff. I can see myself loading up the cart with Autumn, Thanksgiving, and Christmas decorations. To be honest, I can't wait to go back. I'm already planning in my head when that will be.

So, yeah, I hope you enjoyed our first visit to Hobby Lobby. I was elated to be able to have some shopping time with my Mom. I'm sure we'll go together often to Hobby Lobby. It was the first of many trips to the store, I'm sure. And go, yourself, if you have the chance!

Thank you, and don't forget to follow this blog and on my Facebook page here.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Wordless Wednesday: Stories Among Roses

Restaurant Spotlights: Rooster's Waterfront Restaurant

Recently, my Mom and I visited Rooster's Waterfront Restaurant. We had planned for a while to have lunch there. A day opened up and we excitedly went. We've been to Rooster's before, so it wasn't new (we just keep going back). It's become a favorite place for me and my family. We've had so many celebrations there. This particular day was free to go, so we dropped by. I was looking forward to eating there with my Mom. I also knew that we would have to eat some clam chowder. I thought I'd like the mushroom burger, too, but later changed my mind. Both were tempting, especially the clam chowder. I just had to.

When we entered, we were welcomed by a friendly waitress. While we followed her to a booth, I enjoyed looking at the decor. It's so fun inside. Outside was super windy! I'm just glad it didn't rain that day, but our hair was crazy. We sat down at our booth and ordered our drinks. I chose a Mountain Dew, and my Mom selected a coffee. She said that Rooster's has some of the best coffee for a sit-down restaurant. I haven't tried it, but I should next time. We then ordered a cup of clam chowder. I have to be honest; I can be picky with clam chowder. It's the clams. But when they gave us our cups of chowder, I was elated.

Oh. my. word. The clam chowder was creamy. The clams were great, and the potatoes were soft. The flavor was absolutely the best. I really don't know if there's any other place locally that does clam chowder, but Rooster's chowder is amazing. I would go back just for the clam chowder. Once I slurped up the chowder, they came by with our halibut and chips. We both got the same dishes. Yum! The crust on the fish was crunchy. The fish itself was so good! I dunked the fish in the tartar sauce, and the fries in the fry sauce. Together, they were wonderful. I've had this meal before, and it's always an awesome choice. 💓

The meal was just what I expected - perfect! After we were done with our food, we headed out. I stopped to take a picture of the river on our way to the car. Another thing that I like about Rooster's is the river. When you're seated, you can get a view of the river from where you're at. The river is so big, that it makes me think it's the ocean. It's not, obviously, but it's a nice comparison since I always miss the ocean. If you haven't tried Rooster's yet, I highly recommend that you do! It's one of my favorite places to eat at. I hope to go many more times to enjoy their food and atmosphere. I'll be going again soon, I'm sure. 💙

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Business Spotlights: SmasHouse Burgers & Tacos

I was at Art Under The Elms with my brother and his family. We had already explored all the vendors at the event. We were hungry so we made our way over to the food trucks and stands. While walking around, I spotted the orange food truck that was SmasHouse Burgers & Tacos. I had seen them on Facebook, so I was extremely curious. We all decided to try one of their special burgers. We got in line and waited for our turn. I was so excited to finally try one of their hamburgers since I had heard so much about them. 💓

Once it was my turn, I asked for the Smash Burger Combo with a fry and drink. I just had a feeling that it was going to be absolutely delicious, and I couldn't wait. I put my order in and stepped aside for my name to grab my meal. After waiting for a few minutes (not long at all), my name was called. I grabbed my hamburger, fries, and soda from the truck. We all made our way to a bench under some trees. It was evident that everyone was enjoying their meals. The hamburger was so good! I did hold the onions and pickles, because they're not my favorite, but it was yummy without! We all chomped down on those burgers.

We finished our burgers, and our tummies felt full. I almost ate the whole thing of mine. I really think that SmasHouse's Burgers lived up to the hype. I want to get another one! I also know they're located on Main Street in Lewiston, so I want to have another burger or just try something else. On that day, I'm so glad that we went ahead and tried them. I'll be back to pick up some for my family. So, yeah, if you get the chance, check them out! I highly recommend trying their burgers. I haven't tried the tacos, but I'm sure they're just as wonderful as their burgers. So grateful that we have them in the valley! 😀

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

One-Year Anniversary: My Blog Turns 1

 
My blog made it to its one-year anniversary. A lot has happened during that one year. I started my blog with hopes that it would reach others. The Facebook page has grown during that time. Thanks to you! With the growth, I've reached restaurants, authors, and many different places. In this, I've enjoyed spotlighting people and their work. It's been an exciting year, but not without some difficulty. I've fought hard to keep my blog going. There were a few weeks or days where no posts were done. But I was determined to forge ahead, not letting anything stop me. And here we are! It's turned one - a whole year.

The photo collage above that I created is a look back at photos on my blog. I've come through a fire that almost destroyed our home, health issues with my family, and my own personal struggles. It hasn't been easy. But with God by our side, we conquered those days. I'm hoping that I can continue to write in the days to come. I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future. God will be with me, and so, I won't be afraid. I'll keep going. I plan to spotlight more people and businesses. Take lots of new photos, share my stories, and hopefully reveal a new book. It's all coming this year or the next.

In my blog, I've had photo quests, author interviews, guest writers, business spotlights, book reviews, devotionals, and much more. I even had a Christmas advent calendar in December. My Facebook page has grown from one follower to more than a hundred. I've watched it grow, and in turn, I've found growth, as well. I've burst out of my shell and social anxiety to spotlight people and their businesses. I've done things that I wouldn't normally do. Those days have been filled with anxiety. But it was so worth it, and I really want to push myself more for another year of blogging. I'm optimistic about everything.

As we go forward, I would like to thank my fellow wanderers. I always enjoy the comments that are left on my blog posts and on my Facebook page. I look forward to encouraging and hopefully, inspiring other readers. I want my blog to help, reach, and motivate those that need it. You're always welcome here! And I'm also open to any ideas, too. I love to hear what people think. If you haven't followed my Facebook page here for Wandering With Grace, I'm trying to reach 150 followers. Once I do, there will be a small Facebook giveaway on that page. So, please, if you can, follow! Thank you so much! 💓

Let's do a few more years together.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Restaurant Spotlights: Paraiso Vallarta

I used to eat at Paraiso Vallarta after church with friends. That was quite a few years ago. I miss those days. The last time I ate at Paraiso Vallarta was with my Mom. I treated her to lunch. It was a lot of fun as it's one of my favorite places to bring my Mom with me. We both really like Mexican food. This time, I went with my friend Cheryl. I plan on going back again to try new foods with my Mom, too. For some reason, I was nervous about the going yesterday. I'm still learning to venture out with my social anxiety - which is funny, because I like to eat out. I'll never understand myself. But I'm getting used to the idea, so I did it.

I mentioned Paraiso Vallarta to my friend Cheryl. I don't know if she's been there before or not. But it sounded like a great place to eat, enjoy, and blog about. The only other places I can think of that has Mexican food are El Sombrero - which I also like to eat at. If there's one locally that I'm forgetting about, please let me know! So, yeah, I got ready for the day and drove to Paraiso Vallarta. I'm always early. It helps my social anxiety. I got there and procured a booth. I took some pictures and waited for my friend. She arrived soon after. I got a lemonade (this is what I usually order for a drink). I had already looked all over the menu and knew what I wanted (another part of my anxiety). I was eager to eat - so hungry!

While I looked around, I admired the decor, the paintings, and booths. Everything was vibrant and fun. They must have had someone come and paint it all. Whoever did it, did a wonderful job. When I was there that day, it was nice and calm. My friend ordered what she wanted from the menu, and so did I. I got the Enchiladas Verdes. It's two enchiladas with your choice of meat. I got ground beef (I usually get this when I have enchiladas). It also came with rice and beans. It didn't take long to get our meals. I immediately gobbled up my food. My friend enjoyed the nachos she got. Maybe someday I'll be adventurous and try something else, but for now, I'll stick with enchiladas. They were delicious, by the way.

So, I forgot to get a photo of my food before I ate it. I was bummed that I didn't get a photo, but maybe next time when I stop by Paraiso Vallarta, I'll get one. But I did get a photo of me with my friend Cheryl. We had a great time, and on our next meeting, we plan on eating at Koi Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi. She's never had Japanese food before, so I think it'll be a cool experience for her. I'm super, duper excited because I also love that restaurant, and I already know what I'm getting. Can't help it! That won't be until the end of April, however. But I digress, I recommend Paraiso Vallarta for Mexican food. And if you like enchiladas, get the Enchiladas Verdes. I think it's an awesome choice. Thanks, Cheryl!

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

The Gwen Fire: Life Is Growing Again

 

The Gwen fire started in July. It destroyed a lot of acres. It also destroyed homes. Our own home was in the midst of the fire. We had to evacuate. It was one of the worst days I've ever experienced. But our home survived, and I'm so incredibly thankful that it did. The people who were involved in helping save our home, I'm eternally grateful to. I still think about it, but it seems behind me now. I'm at home with my family and we're together.

Recently, the hills that were black, are turning green. It's such a beautiful sight. I'm comforted by the fact that even though the fire burned what was on the hills, new life springs forth. There's always fresh life to be expected in some form. A new beginning takes place. And every time I look at the green, I'm also reminded of God's goodness. He was there with me. He was there with us. I wasn't alone. None of us were. He was so close.

As I look back at all my family has endured, I'm thankful to God that He pulled us through. We could have lost our home. But we didn't. We were spared. Unfortunately, some homes were destroyed. I only wish that the fire hadn't happened, but it did that day. I saw God move through the process, though. He made sure that those who lost their homes, that their needs were met. He met ours through the kindness of family and friends. 💚

It's comforting. With the green hills near, I'm eager for 2025. And I pray it's an easier year for everyone. May you be encouraged, my friends. Even though we went through hardship, God was with us. The whole time. He'll be there for you, too. We're going into the new year with safety and love. He's got us protected within His hands and nothing can change that. In ending this last post of 2024, I hope my family and friends have a Happy New Years.

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson

Christmas Blog Advent: Day 21 - Remembering The Past

*Note* I apologize for the late posts. Things got busy, and I didn't get around to blogging. I'll be finishing up the last posts in the days ahead. There's only a few more left, so I should be done on December 29th. Thank you for waiting to read them! I really appreciate it! Hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! I loved getting to spend time with my family. 💚

The last couple of Christmases, I've been nostalgic. There's one memory in particular that stands out because it was with my Grandma. I remember really well going to her house to decorate for Christmas. We put up her blue lights outside on the house and the bushes in front. She loved the color blue - just like me! I also remember that her favorite candy cane flavor was blueberry. I discovered these from her, and they're still my favorite candy cane flavor. They're harder to find these days. You may get lucky and find some small ones at the Dollar Store, or on Amazon - which is where I got mine. They're truly the best! 💙

I miss her so much. She loved Christmas. She always made sure that I was remembered during this season. She made it special. That's not to say, of course, that I didn't have other family members who made Christmas memories with me. They certainly did. I don't know, she's been on my heart lately. There's a big hole where she used to be. She filled that. And now she's gone. She's been gone for years. I still hold onto the memories and can't help but remember the past with her in it. I loved my Grandma T. I especially remember her during Christmas. It was a joyous time! Really wish I could see her again right now. 💓

From that same day, she gave me a Tom & Jerry Welch's collectible glass. It was vivid in my head. I don't know where that glass went. So, I had to get it. I found it on Ebay for a good price. I was so happy that I found it and relived a Christmas memory tied to her. I haven't used it yet, and I don't know if I will. I think I'll keep it with my other dishes and bring it out each Christmas. I could put candy canes in it, the blueberry ones. I didn't think of that until now, but it's a great idea! I'll do it next Christmas for sure. Yay! 💜

So many beautiful memories with her. She used to record shows and movies on tape for me to watch. One of them was Mrs. Santa Clause with Angela Lansbury. I used to watch it. For this year, I bought it off Ebay. It was a harder and rarer find. I don't even think many people know about it. I watched it tonight with my family, reliving those moments sitting in front of the tv. I remembered every song like it was yesterday. It made me feel happy that I got to share the movie with my family. The movie itself is simple but really enjoyable. I'm so glad I got to add it to my Christmas movie collection. Thank you, Grandma T. 🎄

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson