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The Finishing School: How One Book Nerd Began Living What She Learned
In today's world, our most precious pursuit of a life well lived gets squeezed out by the silliest of things: bringing on Netflix or ice cream, shopping trips for things we don't need, bad habits we can't seem to get a handle on, and so much more. Valerie has been there despite knowing what she wanted for her life. Actually do it? That's the challenge. After gobbling up all the non-fiction and self-help books her donut-filled belly could handle, she decided it was time to put her knowledge to good use and start actually living it out. You will hear about her journey through victories and plenty of failures and find practical tips to apply to your own pursuit of holiness. You will find homework at the end of each chapter that includes a worksheet to put real change in motion for your own life as well as recommended books to further study those topics that really test you.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2015
122 people are currently reading
1090 people want to read
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September 30, 2015
Ironically as I was reading "The Finishing School" it was during a time when I am re-evaluating and making some life changes that included how I was doing bible studies and managing my time.
Going through each chapter, I was impressed as a book nerd by the writing style that Valerie Woerner displayed along with the "homework" she includes at the end of each chapter for readers to dig deeper into the topics she covers such as, "Sabbath rest" among a few other discussions.
The book is a great reminder to go back to the foundation book above everything, the Bible, while providing at the same time a rich, informative book that in todays fast paced world, really encouraged the reader to re-evaluate and look at some healthy and less hurried ways of Christian living.
Valerie really challenges women when it comes to living out their faith and this book will provide a good start on how to begin doing such a thing, though like anything, we should make sure that particularly in matters of Christian living and spiritual life to make sure that all we do line up scriptural with the Bible.
The book is filled with humor, blunt honesty (take for instance a quote where she goes, ""Our lives should be radically different because of Christ who lives in us. Too often they don't look different. And that's not God's fault. That's our laziness."), and inspirational on how to study the bible intentionally, have a rich prayer life and really walk the walk.
The worksheet links that are provided, are very thorough and really challenges one to re-assess different areas in their lives and how can it be improved to have a deeper faith life with God.
The author really seeks to share her heart and soul and personal experiences in a way to get people from going book to book, but instead go to THE BOOK, the Bible and really living the life that Christ wants us to live.
In the United States, despite having the highest rate of Bibles sold/owned, we also have the highest rates of Bible illiteracy and it is strong, encouraging books like this that really seek to make a difference in the Christian walk.
This is a book that isn't passive reading, but rather a book for those who are wanting a more active involved relationship with Jesus Christ.
Going through each chapter, I was impressed as a book nerd by the writing style that Valerie Woerner displayed along with the "homework" she includes at the end of each chapter for readers to dig deeper into the topics she covers such as, "Sabbath rest" among a few other discussions.
The book is a great reminder to go back to the foundation book above everything, the Bible, while providing at the same time a rich, informative book that in todays fast paced world, really encouraged the reader to re-evaluate and look at some healthy and less hurried ways of Christian living.
Valerie really challenges women when it comes to living out their faith and this book will provide a good start on how to begin doing such a thing, though like anything, we should make sure that particularly in matters of Christian living and spiritual life to make sure that all we do line up scriptural with the Bible.
The book is filled with humor, blunt honesty (take for instance a quote where she goes, ""Our lives should be radically different because of Christ who lives in us. Too often they don't look different. And that's not God's fault. That's our laziness."), and inspirational on how to study the bible intentionally, have a rich prayer life and really walk the walk.
The worksheet links that are provided, are very thorough and really challenges one to re-assess different areas in their lives and how can it be improved to have a deeper faith life with God.
The author really seeks to share her heart and soul and personal experiences in a way to get people from going book to book, but instead go to THE BOOK, the Bible and really living the life that Christ wants us to live.
In the United States, despite having the highest rate of Bibles sold/owned, we also have the highest rates of Bible illiteracy and it is strong, encouraging books like this that really seek to make a difference in the Christian walk.
This is a book that isn't passive reading, but rather a book for those who are wanting a more active involved relationship with Jesus Christ.
April 27, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! As an avid reader myself, I could relate so much to the author. Each chapter took a different concept and shared practical ways to apply it to our personal lives. As a reader, it's so easy to read a book and forget what it taught you - application is the key! Valerie writes with a very laid back style so it was easy to follow along and was enjoyable. I will say there were a LOT of typos and mistakes in the book. I rarely notice typos but I came across several - it didn't really bother me but did take away some of the professionalism of the book. I still enjoyed every bit of it though. There were helpful takeaways for me from each chapter of the book!
September 22, 2015
The Finishing School is a truly helpful little book that showcases different books in each chapter that the author has weeded out for the reader in her own self- help quest. A self-professed book nerd, Woerner has cleverly added in her own products as homework guides that you can download with a special code and her own site has some great links to Bible Journaling as well as other products you may want to purchase.
That aside,y’all (Woerner hails from Cajun Country and throws that out a lot), there are some real gems in here. Some of my favorite chapters were on prayer, self-control and minimizing. Woerner writes, “Self-control is a response set apart from my emotions and instead is a response decided in advance based on a standard I live by.” She usually follows pearls such as this with relevant Bible verse(s) and/or her favorite book references. I have already ordered Margin by Richard Swenson based on her chapter of the same name.
This is definitely a keeper. It’s the kind of book you will want hanging around so you can pick it up and browse or find an applicable chapter as needed. It would also make a nice gift for like-minded friends or someone you want to subtly say “here’s some help”.
That aside,y’all (Woerner hails from Cajun Country and throws that out a lot), there are some real gems in here. Some of my favorite chapters were on prayer, self-control and minimizing. Woerner writes, “Self-control is a response set apart from my emotions and instead is a response decided in advance based on a standard I live by.” She usually follows pearls such as this with relevant Bible verse(s) and/or her favorite book references. I have already ordered Margin by Richard Swenson based on her chapter of the same name.
This is definitely a keeper. It’s the kind of book you will want hanging around so you can pick it up and browse or find an applicable chapter as needed. It would also make a nice gift for like-minded friends or someone you want to subtly say “here’s some help”.
March 20, 2016
I read this book slowly and I'm so glad that I did. Valerie is so raw and real that it takes time to let all the goodness sink in! I love that this book is rich with recommendations and resources - she is not afraid to celebrate the works of other authors and I love that! This book came at a perfect time in my life. Each chapter spoke to my heart. There were things I didn't even recognize in my own life until seeing them through her eyes ( hello lack of self control.) I loved the chapters, her humor, but what I loved most was the questions after each chapter that you can access through her website. This is a great book to pick up and read, but if you really want to dig deeper do the homework! For real quit reading this review and buy it already!!!
October 7, 2015
ne of my favorite chapters was the chapter on boundaries. I have personal struggled with telling someone no when they want me to do something and commit to something. This one discussed critical questions to ask ourselves about our commitments and priories. I thought these questions were great and this is something I will have to ponder before taking on too much. I will also take Valerie’s suggestion and begin writing out my commitments and listing the things to say yes to and the things to decline.
I would recommend this life changing book to anyone who is prepared to refine their life and they are ready to dig deeper into the Word of God and to live out Jesus teachings. I really enjoyed the vast topics Valerie Woerner covered such as boundaries, goals, waiting, joy, influence, health, and so much more. I loved how she shared tips throughout the chapters to assist readers into growing in their spiritual lives. Another favorite chapter was the one on waiting on God’s timing. I loved how she was transparent about how she struggled with being single and waiting on God’s perfect timing. She revealed that she didn’t have a boyfriend until she was almost 25 years old. She also shared how she met her husband. I can relate to her story since I didn’t have my first girlfriend until I was 24. I immensely liked how she shared a few reasons that the waiting process can still be beautiful and life changing. Waiting for the timing on meeting your future spouse is difficult when everyone else is getting married and having babies and you’re believing for the same thing in your life. But waiting teaches us to be grateful before it happens and to also be thankful when it finally does happen. If you’re looking for an impactful book to guide you in your spiritual walk, then read this one!
“I received a review copy of The Finishing School from Litfuse for this review.”
I would recommend this life changing book to anyone who is prepared to refine their life and they are ready to dig deeper into the Word of God and to live out Jesus teachings. I really enjoyed the vast topics Valerie Woerner covered such as boundaries, goals, waiting, joy, influence, health, and so much more. I loved how she shared tips throughout the chapters to assist readers into growing in their spiritual lives. Another favorite chapter was the one on waiting on God’s timing. I loved how she was transparent about how she struggled with being single and waiting on God’s perfect timing. She revealed that she didn’t have a boyfriend until she was almost 25 years old. She also shared how she met her husband. I can relate to her story since I didn’t have my first girlfriend until I was 24. I immensely liked how she shared a few reasons that the waiting process can still be beautiful and life changing. Waiting for the timing on meeting your future spouse is difficult when everyone else is getting married and having babies and you’re believing for the same thing in your life. But waiting teaches us to be grateful before it happens and to also be thankful when it finally does happen. If you’re looking for an impactful book to guide you in your spiritual walk, then read this one!
“I received a review copy of The Finishing School from Litfuse for this review.”
May 2, 2020
Read this through Kindle Unlimited. I wish I'd had a bit more time to do the homework and soak this in further, instead of trying to rush through before my subscription ended 😅 but it was really encouraging and challenging, and I was highlighting and screenshotting things to send a friend the whole way through ❤️
January 25, 2019
Great read, took lots of notes and will go through and read again. Many wonderful points made, references to scripture and other authors that helped her form what she felt lead to put down on pen and paper and I can appreciate that. Will definitely recommend to other readers
January 18, 2019
Great practical Biblically based advice. Written in a super friendly, having coffee with your girlfriend way... Loved it!
September 17, 2015
This book is a great guide for any woman - young or old - who wants to start living intentionally. Author Valerie Woerner caught my attention as early as page 3, when she said: "Our lives should be radically different because of Christ who lives in us. Too often they don't look different. And that's not God's fault. That's our laziness." Oh man. That's some good stuff right there!
Valerie freely admits that she's on this journey to intentional living just as much as the rest of us. She doesn't have it all figured out. She's willing to share what she's learning, both the successes and the failures, if it means that others can join in and see God do wonderful things in our ordinary, everyday lives.
This slim volume is packed with 22 areas in which we can let God work in us. Each chapter can be read in about 15 minutes, and I'd highly recommend either printing out the worksheet pages that go with each one, which the author makes available for free on her website, or buy the workbook which has the worksheets all ready to go for you. Due to the time constraints of reading this book before my spot on the tour came around, I was only able to look at a few of the worksheets, but sometime I'd like to go back and work through them all. I believe they would help these truths sink in and make them personal for the reader.
It would be hard to pick a favorite chapter because there were so many good ones! The one that was most personally challenging to me was on the topic of Awareness. I already work in the ministry as a teacher at a Christian school, help raise my siblings, am active at church, have deep meaningful friendships, and work hard to take care of myself physically - it's really easy to just want to stay in my lane and not practice awareness on what is going on in the world. May God give me wisdom on how to use this character quality in my life!
I could see this book having the impact on young women which Elizabeth George's books have had on me. This would be a great graduation gift or would work well for a young women's Bible study group. If you desire to live fully, this could be a great resource for you. Don't let it stay as a desire. "Truly, what we do in the difficult moments is what separates dreamers and doers. The people who live a beautiful, intentional life didn't just have it easy. They made choices when it was hard, and it built their character and refined them." (page 59) Let's make that a true statement about us as well.
I received my copy of the book in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
Valerie freely admits that she's on this journey to intentional living just as much as the rest of us. She doesn't have it all figured out. She's willing to share what she's learning, both the successes and the failures, if it means that others can join in and see God do wonderful things in our ordinary, everyday lives.
This slim volume is packed with 22 areas in which we can let God work in us. Each chapter can be read in about 15 minutes, and I'd highly recommend either printing out the worksheet pages that go with each one, which the author makes available for free on her website, or buy the workbook which has the worksheets all ready to go for you. Due to the time constraints of reading this book before my spot on the tour came around, I was only able to look at a few of the worksheets, but sometime I'd like to go back and work through them all. I believe they would help these truths sink in and make them personal for the reader.
It would be hard to pick a favorite chapter because there were so many good ones! The one that was most personally challenging to me was on the topic of Awareness. I already work in the ministry as a teacher at a Christian school, help raise my siblings, am active at church, have deep meaningful friendships, and work hard to take care of myself physically - it's really easy to just want to stay in my lane and not practice awareness on what is going on in the world. May God give me wisdom on how to use this character quality in my life!
I could see this book having the impact on young women which Elizabeth George's books have had on me. This would be a great graduation gift or would work well for a young women's Bible study group. If you desire to live fully, this could be a great resource for you. Don't let it stay as a desire. "Truly, what we do in the difficult moments is what separates dreamers and doers. The people who live a beautiful, intentional life didn't just have it easy. They made choices when it was hard, and it built their character and refined them." (page 59) Let's make that a true statement about us as well.
I received my copy of the book in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
September 25, 2015
_____________________
*My Thoughts*
I am in such a funk right now. Also, I feel like every review for this book is going to start like this, but at least we are consistent! Right?! Anyways, I needed a change and this book is fantastic!
Valerie writes in a very real way. She shares humor, thoughts, and ways to help refine your life. There is no "fake" in this book. Not one. Little. Bit. She gives it just as she's learned it and I am convinced, it's gonna help a ton of people.
There's a special 'homework' assignment at the end of each chapter to keep track of your progress e.t.c! Who would have thought that fellow book nerds, 'knowledge junkies' as another delightful reviewer put it, would struggle with the same things as me? I truly believe that this book was meant for me...but not just me, all of you as well!! Wonderfully written, you really need to read each chapter slowly...savor them, so-to-speak, to get the effect.
___________________
*Audience*
Perfect for any self-proclaimed book nerd or knowledge lover...this one's a keeper!!
________________________
*My overall thoughts*
The Finishing School by Valerie Woerner is truly a different style of book. Written by a 'kindred spirit', Valerie takes our love for head knowledge and turns it into something you can grasp for your own life.
_______________
*My Rating*
I give The Finishing School by Valerie Woerner...
5 stars!!
*I received this book from the Litfuse, the publisher, and the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. All thoughts were my own and I was not compensated in any other way.
http://bookreviewsforchristians.blogs...
*My Thoughts*
I am in such a funk right now. Also, I feel like every review for this book is going to start like this, but at least we are consistent! Right?! Anyways, I needed a change and this book is fantastic!
Valerie writes in a very real way. She shares humor, thoughts, and ways to help refine your life. There is no "fake" in this book. Not one. Little. Bit. She gives it just as she's learned it and I am convinced, it's gonna help a ton of people.
There's a special 'homework' assignment at the end of each chapter to keep track of your progress e.t.c! Who would have thought that fellow book nerds, 'knowledge junkies' as another delightful reviewer put it, would struggle with the same things as me? I truly believe that this book was meant for me...but not just me, all of you as well!! Wonderfully written, you really need to read each chapter slowly...savor them, so-to-speak, to get the effect.
___________________
*Audience*
Perfect for any self-proclaimed book nerd or knowledge lover...this one's a keeper!!
________________________
*My overall thoughts*
The Finishing School by Valerie Woerner is truly a different style of book. Written by a 'kindred spirit', Valerie takes our love for head knowledge and turns it into something you can grasp for your own life.
_______________
*My Rating*
I give The Finishing School by Valerie Woerner...
5 stars!!
*I received this book from the Litfuse, the publisher, and the author in exchange for an honest review, which I have given. All thoughts were my own and I was not compensated in any other way.
http://bookreviewsforchristians.blogs...
September 13, 2015
Valerie Woerner opens the very first chapter by stating that she's not all that passionate about social graces, or the lack thereof. This isn't that kind of finishing school. (And we all breathe a collective slouching sigh of relief...) She is passionate about the refinement of our souls, however, and the pages that follow act as a refreshingly-practical motivator to start doing something with all that book knowledge you're hoarding. This is, like, the bookworm's field manual!
Because, let's be honest here. We book nerds would much rather keep our nose stuck comfortably in what we're reading instead of doing something uncomfortable like applying the truth we've just ingested.
Valerie's easy-going conversational writing style makes having your toes stepped on much more enjoyable than you might think ;) Sentences like "This routine-loving gal is about to discuss 'flexibility' so look alive" keep the pace steady and the mood upbeat, despite the convicting truths speaking to you from every chapter. And Valerie doesn't escape the toe-tramples either! Her candid honesty puts us all on the same level (which is really where we are anyway) and leaves the reader feeling both motivated and encouraged. The resources provided online and at the end of each chapter (homework, y'all!!!) add even more accountability and practicality to the truths just conveyed. This would make a great small group study too!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read more of this review at Reading Is My SuperPower
Because, let's be honest here. We book nerds would much rather keep our nose stuck comfortably in what we're reading instead of doing something uncomfortable like applying the truth we've just ingested.
Valerie's easy-going conversational writing style makes having your toes stepped on much more enjoyable than you might think ;) Sentences like "This routine-loving gal is about to discuss 'flexibility' so look alive" keep the pace steady and the mood upbeat, despite the convicting truths speaking to you from every chapter. And Valerie doesn't escape the toe-tramples either! Her candid honesty puts us all on the same level (which is really where we are anyway) and leaves the reader feeling both motivated and encouraged. The resources provided online and at the end of each chapter (homework, y'all!!!) add even more accountability and practicality to the truths just conveyed. This would make a great small group study too!
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for only my honest review.)
Read more of this review at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 22, 2015
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
In The Finishing School: How One Book Nerd Began Living What She Learned, Valerie Woerner addresses topics important to the Christian life as one might address the social graces in a proper finishing school - with the intention of learning and understanding, then practicing and doing. Woerner’s book covers topics, like prayer, Scripture reading and self-control, to name a few, with glimpses of ways she has put into practice what she has learned, followed by practical tips for readers. As I read The Finishing School, I can’t say I found any of the information incredibly new, especially compared to other books I’ve read (for I, too, am a book nerd…), but it does offer a compilation of useful basics and recommended reads for further study. For the reader in need of encouragement and help with living out faith intentionally, this could certainly be a beneficial read.
Thanks to LitFuse Publicity Group, I received a copy of The Finishing School and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
In The Finishing School: How One Book Nerd Began Living What She Learned, Valerie Woerner addresses topics important to the Christian life as one might address the social graces in a proper finishing school - with the intention of learning and understanding, then practicing and doing. Woerner’s book covers topics, like prayer, Scripture reading and self-control, to name a few, with glimpses of ways she has put into practice what she has learned, followed by practical tips for readers. As I read The Finishing School, I can’t say I found any of the information incredibly new, especially compared to other books I’ve read (for I, too, am a book nerd…), but it does offer a compilation of useful basics and recommended reads for further study. For the reader in need of encouragement and help with living out faith intentionally, this could certainly be a beneficial read.
Thanks to LitFuse Publicity Group, I received a copy of The Finishing School and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
September 15, 2015
As a first time author, Valerie has a knack for writing, keeping the reader engaged, while covering a variety of topics. Her conversational style of writing in The Finishing School: How one Nerd Began Living What She Learned is inviting and allows you to sit back, relax and allows the reader to absorb words of the page. She is authentic with her failures and successes, while allowing you to face your own through further additional indepth study on your own. She even recommends books. My favorite chapter was on the 6 keys to Sabbath. I love the art of rest and think as a culture we are really bad at taking the time to rest. I love her practical ideas and I love the idea of not spending on that day. I also love her recommendations for how to study the Bible. This book is full of practical daily wisdom, but is perfect for anyone looking to learn how to grow in joy, prayer, learning how to practice rest, becoming a warrior against anxiety, comparison and so many more topics. Ya'll will just love this book! Check out this book. You don't want to miss this guide to every day life with a fresh perspective about someone who is real, funny and fresh! I highly recommend this book and look forward to more books from Valerie!
June 7, 2018
I loved everything about this book. Valerie Woerner delivers a book that I will read over and over again. I think we forget that we need to keep learning, growing, and challenging ourselves. Woerner is honest about her own flaws and struggles to overcome and she tells her experience in a way that encourages the readers to be vulnerable as well. Also I appreciated the homework questions and book recommendations provided throughout the book.
See my full review: North of Nonsense Blog
See my full review: North of Nonsense Blog
December 14, 2015
I love the heart behind this book but the text itself could have used more refining and unfortunately that was a big distraction throughout the entire work. The intention is good, the points well thought out, but it didn't feel edited. I did love the topics she covered and there were strong quotes from other books I'll return to. This book pointed to foundational aspects & we'd read a lot of similar books so I think there was just little new for me.
April 20, 2020
When I think about my personality, I like to think I'm a relatively polished person. I complete tasks. I edit. I put things in their place. I'm neat and tidy. I'm on time (if not early). I suppose these are qualities that I like about myself when I think about it long enough.
But one thing I'm not finished with and that is definitely incomplete is my relationship with the Lord. There's a major to-do list waiting and after reading The Finishing School, I realized I have a long way to go. Things are messy. Things don't have beautiful bows on them. Things need refined. And by things, I mean me.
After recently reading Woerner's Grumpy Mom Takes a Holiday, I was able to shift a lot of my thinking and approach to motherhood to realize that I don't need to make excuses for myself (no, I really don't need to live for wine o'clock) and that the shadow I cast goes straight towards my son. And the Finishing School was no different. Woerner honed in on the fact that while we work hard at our relationships with the Lord, there's still a ways to go ... and it's time to polish it up (as I like to say).
Throughout her book, Woerner focused on various aspects of life—friendships, marriage, minimalism, prayer, staying healthy ... and how God ties into each one. She challenges us to push a little further, work a little harder and not be satisfied with the status quo. The status quo is where we are ... and God wants more. And honestly, while somewhat intimidating, I love that.
He gave everything to me. I can certainly give more to Him.
And more doesn't have to mean traveling to Africa to help feed starving children (though that's wonderful!). It can mean going out of your comfort zone. Finally putting a stop to a bad habit. Praising Him first thing each morning. Talking about the hard stuff. Praying about the hard stuff. Praying about the simple stuff. Saying no to things (and relishing in it). Saying yes to things (and relishing in it). Standing firm. Loving on hard days. The list goes on and on.
Woerner made grand ideas accessible to me and I walked away with a lot to ponder. Finishing school is about putting ideas into practice and The Finishing School encouraged me to do just that. A wonderful pick-me-up during a challenging season.
But one thing I'm not finished with and that is definitely incomplete is my relationship with the Lord. There's a major to-do list waiting and after reading The Finishing School, I realized I have a long way to go. Things are messy. Things don't have beautiful bows on them. Things need refined. And by things, I mean me.
After recently reading Woerner's Grumpy Mom Takes a Holiday, I was able to shift a lot of my thinking and approach to motherhood to realize that I don't need to make excuses for myself (no, I really don't need to live for wine o'clock) and that the shadow I cast goes straight towards my son. And the Finishing School was no different. Woerner honed in on the fact that while we work hard at our relationships with the Lord, there's still a ways to go ... and it's time to polish it up (as I like to say).
Throughout her book, Woerner focused on various aspects of life—friendships, marriage, minimalism, prayer, staying healthy ... and how God ties into each one. She challenges us to push a little further, work a little harder and not be satisfied with the status quo. The status quo is where we are ... and God wants more. And honestly, while somewhat intimidating, I love that.
He gave everything to me. I can certainly give more to Him.
And more doesn't have to mean traveling to Africa to help feed starving children (though that's wonderful!). It can mean going out of your comfort zone. Finally putting a stop to a bad habit. Praising Him first thing each morning. Talking about the hard stuff. Praying about the hard stuff. Praying about the simple stuff. Saying no to things (and relishing in it). Saying yes to things (and relishing in it). Standing firm. Loving on hard days. The list goes on and on.
Woerner made grand ideas accessible to me and I walked away with a lot to ponder. Finishing school is about putting ideas into practice and The Finishing School encouraged me to do just that. A wonderful pick-me-up during a challenging season.
January 31, 2019
I love this book! I have actually read through it twice and plan on picking it up once a year to read through in the future. It is an easy and enjoyable read, which is a big deal for me. As a mom of four, finding time to sit and read gets hard at times, but this book is written in a way that you can easily read through one chapter, put it down, and start the next chapter when you get free time again.
November 2, 2019
Val never disappoints
Despite this book being self-published, I loved many things about it. Val admitted to the few errors due to her experience as an author/publisher at the time of publishing, but I thoroughly enjoyed reading every chapter. The best part was the 1) the worksheets you get access to to help process each chapter and 2) the fact that Val will engage with you on social media. I read this book because I love Grumpy Mom Takes A Holiday, and I am so glad I did.
Despite this book being self-published, I loved many things about it. Val admitted to the few errors due to her experience as an author/publisher at the time of publishing, but I thoroughly enjoyed reading every chapter. The best part was the 1) the worksheets you get access to to help process each chapter and 2) the fact that Val will engage with you on social media. I read this book because I love Grumpy Mom Takes A Holiday, and I am so glad I did.
February 26, 2019
Although this book could use a good editor, I found this book really useful in practical ways. Wen though the author is at a different stage in life and her examples reflect that, I still found much to ponder and apply to my own walk. She uses a lot of other books as references which grew my TBR list!
August 25, 2018
This book is amazing, I really recommend the workbook too because it helps you think about how to put what you just read into practice. I actually plan to use my work book as a reference as I try to live out the principles in this book. I really recommend this book!
February 21, 2021
I thought this book was ok. There were some gems throughout but there wasn’t a whole lot that was unique. I would’ve given it 3 stars were it not for the pervasive typos (including one chapter title that contained a misspelling).
October 2, 2019
A beautiful faith based book! Chapter by chapter guide to help us ladies through life’s journey. While also bringing one closer to God. Lovely. Just lovely.
October 31, 2019
Great book that you can work through over the course of a year (or otherwise, if you prefer) to develop good habits based on sound biblical principles.
January 5, 2020
This is a great book to read, especially with starting new rhythms. Very refreshing and encouraging!
January 9, 2020
A good read for anyone.
February 27, 2021
so disappointing that I quit after 2 chapters
January 4, 2024
2024.03
February 27, 2025
Overall this was a very very good read. There were a few things here and there that I didn't agree with but it was mostly good.
February 14, 2022
The Finishing School: How one book nerd began living what she learned. A Practical Guide To Everyday Life by Valerie Woerner
If you are setting some goals for the new year, then look no farther than this book. It's packed full of tips and wisdom on how Val started living out what she was learning.
"Obedience to God and making an effort to live life more intentionally is not about earning salvation. It's a gift."
From setting goals to being content, finding joy to making friends, Val has so much to say. She digs into the Bible and brings out interesting things that some of us may have never thought of before. She tells of real life events and lessons she has personally learned and implemented.
While this book covers some serious topics, Val uses some humor to make her point. If you have ever read any of her other books, you know she is pretty funny. But she doesn't mince words. There is one chapter she specifically didn't want to write, but she did and she says that her mission is to speak truth.
The first time you read, my suggestion would be to read cover to cover. Then, if you have a specific area you want to work on, reread the chapters that pertain to your situation. The chapters don't necessarily build on each other, but that is one thing I love about this book.
At the end of each chapter, you'll find a homework page with additional resources and the password for the worksheets in the Val Marie Paper shop to go along with the book.
This book will definitely will be a reread for me and a go to when I need advice or tips on living intentionally.
If you are setting some goals for the new year, then look no farther than this book. It's packed full of tips and wisdom on how Val started living out what she was learning.
"Obedience to God and making an effort to live life more intentionally is not about earning salvation. It's a gift."
From setting goals to being content, finding joy to making friends, Val has so much to say. She digs into the Bible and brings out interesting things that some of us may have never thought of before. She tells of real life events and lessons she has personally learned and implemented.
While this book covers some serious topics, Val uses some humor to make her point. If you have ever read any of her other books, you know she is pretty funny. But she doesn't mince words. There is one chapter she specifically didn't want to write, but she did and she says that her mission is to speak truth.
The first time you read, my suggestion would be to read cover to cover. Then, if you have a specific area you want to work on, reread the chapters that pertain to your situation. The chapters don't necessarily build on each other, but that is one thing I love about this book.
At the end of each chapter, you'll find a homework page with additional resources and the password for the worksheets in the Val Marie Paper shop to go along with the book.
This book will definitely will be a reread for me and a go to when I need advice or tips on living intentionally.
September 23, 2015
I've been in a funk. Stuck in a rut that is so deep that all I could see was the next step in front of me, but nothing else. Moving aimlessly in the endless routine of day in and day out as a working mother with no relief in sight.
I think that's why I absolutely adored this book. It's the book that I wish I had written because it was everything that I needed in my life right now. So much of what she wrote in this book resonated with me. Fellow book nerd, knowledge junkie? Check and check!
I've been following Valerie on Instagram (@valmariepaper) for awhile now. I've always found her posts not only beautiful, but inspirational. I love her prayer journals and have been eyeing them for a long time. There was a period of my life (early in my marriage and pre-kids), when I would diligently keep a prayer journal. It was probably the time of my life when I felt the closest to God. In all honesty, I miss it. I miss Him terribly. This book has inspired me to start a new one again.
What I appreciated about this book is that each chapter was a quick, succinct guide to different areas of your life: joy, friendship, self-control, margin, etc. My favorite guides were to habits, balance, and comparison because they are the current demons that are at the most forefront of my life right now.
Valerie writes in a way that is totally relatable, real, and at times humorous. It felt like sitting at a coffee shop with a close friend and bonding over common struggles of daily life. I think the Enemy wants nothing more than to make you think that you are alone in your daily trials and tribulations to make you feel isolated and like you're fighting the battles with your own sheer willpower and strength (or weaknesses, rather). It feels validating and refreshing to know that I am not alone and even though my journey and pursuit towards holiness in my walk with Christ will not be perfect, at least I know that I've got God on my side. I really don't think I'll ever be the same after reading this book and I'm thankful that I had the chance to read it through Litfuse. I am looking forward to the next steps in my journey as a Christ-follower, wife, mother, and woman. Thank you Valerie, for writing this book that spoke directly to my heart.
I zipped through this book a little faster than I would have liked because I didn't have "balance" in my life, but I plan on rereading it again, slower... to savor each chapter and read it more like a devotional. I highly recommend reading this book like a devotional. That way, you have time to let the lessons of each guide sink in. I can also see this being a great book to study together in a study group of women in a bible study/small group environment.
Lastly, I also appreciated that she also provided free homework worksheets and resources on her website to go deeper with the material. Please check out her website at: http://www.valmariepaper.com.
I think that's why I absolutely adored this book. It's the book that I wish I had written because it was everything that I needed in my life right now. So much of what she wrote in this book resonated with me. Fellow book nerd, knowledge junkie? Check and check!
I've been following Valerie on Instagram (@valmariepaper) for awhile now. I've always found her posts not only beautiful, but inspirational. I love her prayer journals and have been eyeing them for a long time. There was a period of my life (early in my marriage and pre-kids), when I would diligently keep a prayer journal. It was probably the time of my life when I felt the closest to God. In all honesty, I miss it. I miss Him terribly. This book has inspired me to start a new one again.
What I appreciated about this book is that each chapter was a quick, succinct guide to different areas of your life: joy, friendship, self-control, margin, etc. My favorite guides were to habits, balance, and comparison because they are the current demons that are at the most forefront of my life right now.
Valerie writes in a way that is totally relatable, real, and at times humorous. It felt like sitting at a coffee shop with a close friend and bonding over common struggles of daily life. I think the Enemy wants nothing more than to make you think that you are alone in your daily trials and tribulations to make you feel isolated and like you're fighting the battles with your own sheer willpower and strength (or weaknesses, rather). It feels validating and refreshing to know that I am not alone and even though my journey and pursuit towards holiness in my walk with Christ will not be perfect, at least I know that I've got God on my side. I really don't think I'll ever be the same after reading this book and I'm thankful that I had the chance to read it through Litfuse. I am looking forward to the next steps in my journey as a Christ-follower, wife, mother, and woman. Thank you Valerie, for writing this book that spoke directly to my heart.
I zipped through this book a little faster than I would have liked because I didn't have "balance" in my life, but I plan on rereading it again, slower... to savor each chapter and read it more like a devotional. I highly recommend reading this book like a devotional. That way, you have time to let the lessons of each guide sink in. I can also see this being a great book to study together in a study group of women in a bible study/small group environment.
Lastly, I also appreciated that she also provided free homework worksheets and resources on her website to go deeper with the material. Please check out her website at: http://www.valmariepaper.com.
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