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Beautifully Interrupted: When God Holds the Pen that Writes Your Story
Foreword by Mandy Arioto, President of MOPS International
Teresa Swanstrom Anderson is living the life she thought she never wanted. With an art history degree and dreams of living in Europe as a curator, Teresa had big plans for herself. She had no desire to have kids -- didn't even like them -- but after a decision to lay her exciting plans at the feet of Christ, God began changing her heart little by little. While dating the man who eventually became her husband, the two felt called to adopt from Africa.
Now, Teresa's house is bursting at the seams with the loves of her life -- her husband, Ben, and their six children, four of whom were born in Ethiopia. She believes in celebrating the everyday and instilling the love of God and others in her children's hearts. She views her life as a series of redirected dreams, stumbling, falling, getting up, and wondering if she is investing her time where it matters most. Through it all, Teresa grasps joy tightly amid the craziness of everyday life.
Go from dreaming about your life to living it fully with God in control. Pick up this book, grab a notebook, curl up on the couch, and open your heart to the potential of allowing your life to become beautifully interrupted.
Includes reflection questions and Bible study prompts. Have you gotten so caught up in life and your well-intentioned plans that you may have accidentally planned God right out of it all? Teresa Swanstrom Anderson did just that. Her carefully laid out life changed course when she whispered to God, "Send me. Use me." Be inspired as you read Beautifully Interrupted and learn the importance of giving your plans back to God and allow Him to expand the borders of your life and heart. This book offers strategies and encouragement for living through the in-between times of waiting, as well as facing trials with grace and active faith. Become equipped to brave the storms and embrace the life-changing power of seeking God's plan first and sacrificing time and set plans in favor of something far greater.
Teresa Swanstrom Anderson is living the life she thought she never wanted. With an art history degree and dreams of living in Europe as a curator, Teresa had big plans for herself. She had no desire to have kids -- didn't even like them -- but after a decision to lay her exciting plans at the feet of Christ, God began changing her heart little by little. While dating the man who eventually became her husband, the two felt called to adopt from Africa.
Now, Teresa's house is bursting at the seams with the loves of her life -- her husband, Ben, and their six children, four of whom were born in Ethiopia. She believes in celebrating the everyday and instilling the love of God and others in her children's hearts. She views her life as a series of redirected dreams, stumbling, falling, getting up, and wondering if she is investing her time where it matters most. Through it all, Teresa grasps joy tightly amid the craziness of everyday life.
Go from dreaming about your life to living it fully with God in control. Pick up this book, grab a notebook, curl up on the couch, and open your heart to the potential of allowing your life to become beautifully interrupted.
Includes reflection questions and Bible study prompts. Have you gotten so caught up in life and your well-intentioned plans that you may have accidentally planned God right out of it all? Teresa Swanstrom Anderson did just that. Her carefully laid out life changed course when she whispered to God, "Send me. Use me." Be inspired as you read Beautifully Interrupted and learn the importance of giving your plans back to God and allow Him to expand the borders of your life and heart. This book offers strategies and encouragement for living through the in-between times of waiting, as well as facing trials with grace and active faith. Become equipped to brave the storms and embrace the life-changing power of seeking God's plan first and sacrificing time and set plans in favor of something far greater.
288 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2018
13 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 26, 2018
This book was a very nice surprise. I was expecting a theological book. But it seemed more like a novel but a different kind of novel.
As Teresa starts to relate events and experiences in the first pages, I couldn`t put down the book. She tells you the story and then gives you the lessons she learnt. Beautiful lessons, which are the highlights of the book.
It is an emotional book but one you have to read because of the teachings you will find.
As Teresa starts to relate events and experiences in the first pages, I couldn`t put down the book. She tells you the story and then gives you the lessons she learnt. Beautiful lessons, which are the highlights of the book.
It is an emotional book but one you have to read because of the teachings you will find.
February 20, 2018
This is a lovely self-help book about putting God first. Sometimes your life and plans and dreams get interrupted, and it's a reminder that you should put God and your faith first, prioritize your life the right way. It's a wonderful book that reminded me of the necessity of spiritual fulfillment in our lives -- for no other reason that it should be our main priority, not to get things in return. Beautifully Interrupted will be out in the spring, just in time for summer, so I give it five coconut iced coffees.
May 16, 2018
Beautifully Interrupted begins with author Teresa Anderson's adolescence in Seattle. Even as a young girl faith was part of her daily conversation; it is no surprise that the early pages of this story are simple, a youth narrative that reads like a friendly conversation. Not long into the book, however, you will find an unexpected depth of insight. Anderson's narrative interrupts your own spiritual journey with the question, "Can God do more with me?" I found myself wondering what God bigger usefulness God has for me. A book that demands sincere pause for these life questions is a book that should be on your "read it" list.
This book isn't just for women or for people who wonder if adoption is part of God's plan for them. (It isn't just for people who love pink roses, so don't be led astray!) My biggest takeaway from the book is that God's plans, thought they be BIG, may not include my strongest gifts, my most acute passions, and my sharpest skills. Beautifully Interrupted underlines the fact that it is the precious unexpected plan that God will use.
Anderson's story spends time on her love of art, art history, style, fashion, and aesthetics. It is a joy to read a contemporary Christian writer who engages these aspects of life without cynicism or embarrassment. More! More of that! Next book..?
It is easy and natural to recommend this book to any Christian who struggles with fear. Anderson's narrative is a friendly invitation to assess your own life and wonder about God's bigger plan.
This book isn't just for women or for people who wonder if adoption is part of God's plan for them. (It isn't just for people who love pink roses, so don't be led astray!) My biggest takeaway from the book is that God's plans, thought they be BIG, may not include my strongest gifts, my most acute passions, and my sharpest skills. Beautifully Interrupted underlines the fact that it is the precious unexpected plan that God will use.
Anderson's story spends time on her love of art, art history, style, fashion, and aesthetics. It is a joy to read a contemporary Christian writer who engages these aspects of life without cynicism or embarrassment. More! More of that! Next book..?
It is easy and natural to recommend this book to any Christian who struggles with fear. Anderson's narrative is a friendly invitation to assess your own life and wonder about God's bigger plan.
June 4, 2018
This book is a refreshing departure from the normal inspirational offerings. A lot of books in this genre seem to tie up quite nicely with a big red bow and finish with "they all lived happily ever after" ending. Teresa's book is more real, showing us the consequences of saying yes to God when he interrupts our plans. While God's plans are always what is best for us, many times they are not the easiest path. Teresa invites us into her story, - the ups, the downs, in a very real way. Her story doesn't end with the big red boy but it does end with a sense that God has much more to do in her life and I look forward to reading more of her story. I was able to really connect with her and was able to get a lot of application from this book.
Another issue I typically have with inspirational Christian writing is the sloppy handling of the scripture, a lot of times the authors will take verses out of context or twist it to fit their understanding. Teresa is very careful in handling scripture and I was very happy to see her explaining the correct context of Jeremiah 29:11 - something I don't see very often.
I highly recommend this book. It would be very good for a book club.
Another issue I typically have with inspirational Christian writing is the sloppy handling of the scripture, a lot of times the authors will take verses out of context or twist it to fit their understanding. Teresa is very careful in handling scripture and I was very happy to see her explaining the correct context of Jeremiah 29:11 - something I don't see very often.
I highly recommend this book. It would be very good for a book club.
October 10, 2018
This book is a warm, faith-filled story about an adoptive family. Teresa Swanstrom Anderson’s life took various unexpected turns, and she records how her faith grew along the way. She has pink hair, a creative spirit, two biological children, and four adopted from Ethiopia.
I appreciated her glimpses from mom life and her encouragement to view life as an organic creation, being shaped by God for purposes you cannot fathom right now but will delight in later. Her life has been an adventure of faith, and you will find her story uplifting and thoughtful.
Her inspiring memoir is fun to read and full of great quotes like these:
“Plastic gods don’t matter much; they fit in a small crevice of the live you want, the life you were planning to have. And when everything is working…plastic gods feel like enough.”
“Forget what your brain is telling you from past experiences, hurts, failures, or weaknesses. What is Christ showing you right now?”
“By acknowledging that there is nothing outside of His timing, we can push frustration aside through seasons of seeming pause, knowing that there is teaching within it.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley.
I appreciated her glimpses from mom life and her encouragement to view life as an organic creation, being shaped by God for purposes you cannot fathom right now but will delight in later. Her life has been an adventure of faith, and you will find her story uplifting and thoughtful.
Her inspiring memoir is fun to read and full of great quotes like these:
“Plastic gods don’t matter much; they fit in a small crevice of the live you want, the life you were planning to have. And when everything is working…plastic gods feel like enough.”
“Forget what your brain is telling you from past experiences, hurts, failures, or weaknesses. What is Christ showing you right now?”
“By acknowledging that there is nothing outside of His timing, we can push frustration aside through seasons of seeming pause, knowing that there is teaching within it.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley.
May 15, 2018
Beautifully Interrupted is an inspiring story of what can happen when you let God make the plans for your life. Teresa’s writing style is straightforward and easy to read. I found her story engaging and extremely relatable.
I have felt that God has been asking to interrupt my life over the last several months, Teresa’s book has shown me how beautiful and wonderful that kind of interruption can be. Her words encouraged me where I’ve been prone to fear, inspired me where I’ve been prone to overwhelm, and motivated me where I’ve been prone to give up. I really appreciate her open honesty in these pages. I admire the way that she has endeavored to wait for God’s best rather than accept the immediate or closest things.
Since reading Beautifully Interrupted I feel inspired to live more fully. Like Teresa, “I want my world to outlive me, for it to be very little about what I’ve done but rather how I’ve loved.” (Beautifully Interrupted, pg 231).
Beautifully Interrupted has inspired me. I believe it can do the same for every woman brave enough to ask “Can God do more with me?”
I have felt that God has been asking to interrupt my life over the last several months, Teresa’s book has shown me how beautiful and wonderful that kind of interruption can be. Her words encouraged me where I’ve been prone to fear, inspired me where I’ve been prone to overwhelm, and motivated me where I’ve been prone to give up. I really appreciate her open honesty in these pages. I admire the way that she has endeavored to wait for God’s best rather than accept the immediate or closest things.
Since reading Beautifully Interrupted I feel inspired to live more fully. Like Teresa, “I want my world to outlive me, for it to be very little about what I’ve done but rather how I’ve loved.” (Beautifully Interrupted, pg 231).
Beautifully Interrupted has inspired me. I believe it can do the same for every woman brave enough to ask “Can God do more with me?”
June 3, 2018
Teresa Swanstrom Anderson has written an uplifting, thought-provoking powerhouse of a book! She candidly shares her continuing journey of letting God take control of her life. That doesn't mean she doesn't question, or worry, or doubt, or complain about the seeming lack of answers to prayers (or the timing of them), or get angry at God. What it means is she listens... she listens for God's still, but amazingly loud, voice and direction. She tries to get out of God's way and let Him give her the life He has always wanted her to have. Doing so has given her a life completely opposite of the one she once dreamed of, and guess what? She couldn't be happier!
Written in such a down-to-earth, warm-hearted way, this book is highly readable. Her honesty is refreshing. Ms. Anderson has her priorities straight, and has definitely made me revisit mine. I especially love the scripture verses and quotes she chose to make some of her points.
This book came to me at the perfect time, and that was NOT coincidental. I will always keep this shelved to revisit time and again.
EXCELLENT!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Worthy Publishing for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
Written in such a down-to-earth, warm-hearted way, this book is highly readable. Her honesty is refreshing. Ms. Anderson has her priorities straight, and has definitely made me revisit mine. I especially love the scripture verses and quotes she chose to make some of her points.
This book came to me at the perfect time, and that was NOT coincidental. I will always keep this shelved to revisit time and again.
EXCELLENT!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Worthy Publishing for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
June 13, 2018
I was privileged to be part of the launch Team for Teresa's new book. I became most excited to read it after seeing her promo video which explained that the book was about when things feel out of your comfort zone, which is definitely descriptive of the season of life I'm in right now. God is often pushing us outside of what we are comfortable with, so He can show us what He is capable of.
Reading Teresa's book was like getting to know a new friend, as well as getting to know more about the God I already love. Teresa tells her personal story in this book, which is full of biblical truths, scripture verses, and spiritual principles. Teresa tell stories from her early teen years and adult life, weaving the story of how God has used those early experiences to shape the person she is today. There were several scriptures which spoke to the season of life that I'm in right now. The entire book was was a refreshing read, being neither too theological of a book nor an empty non-Christian biography.
Reading Teresa's book was like getting to know a new friend, as well as getting to know more about the God I already love. Teresa tells her personal story in this book, which is full of biblical truths, scripture verses, and spiritual principles. Teresa tell stories from her early teen years and adult life, weaving the story of how God has used those early experiences to shape the person she is today. There were several scriptures which spoke to the season of life that I'm in right now. The entire book was was a refreshing read, being neither too theological of a book nor an empty non-Christian biography.
July 2, 2018
I can’t recall how I ran across Teresa’s blog years ago, but I instantly was attracted to her unique, but beautiful style. I admire her for her love of Jesus, her big diverse family, and her taste in décor. I was chosen to be part of her launch team for this book and was so excited to dive in. This book took me longer to read than any other book and that was only because each page made me stop and really think about what she was sharing. I found myself writing and marking up this book, which is way out of the ordinary for me. If I was interrupted while reading or felt the least bit tired, I would put it down, because I wanted to be fully present. Even though I have been following Teresa for a few years, I was so surprised at everything she wrote in this book. She was real, raw, and vulnerable and that is what is important when reading a book like this.
May 17, 2018
It was perfect timing for me to learn even more about trusting God and living boldly!
Teresa Anderson is living out the story God has written for her and as you can probably guess, it's different than her own well laid plans. From the mindset of "my dreams are all planned out" to a surrendered shift of "living the life she thought she never wanted," Teresa takes you on her redirected journey. I appreciate the author's style of writing where you can almost hear, see & feel the life adventures she paints so vividly, especially her experiences in other countries!
Whether you are younger, older, single or married with children ... you will appreciate how Teresa comes alongside us, her readers, and guides us on how to celebrate each and every day to the fullest!
Teresa Anderson is living out the story God has written for her and as you can probably guess, it's different than her own well laid plans. From the mindset of "my dreams are all planned out" to a surrendered shift of "living the life she thought she never wanted," Teresa takes you on her redirected journey. I appreciate the author's style of writing where you can almost hear, see & feel the life adventures she paints so vividly, especially her experiences in other countries!
Whether you are younger, older, single or married with children ... you will appreciate how Teresa comes alongside us, her readers, and guides us on how to celebrate each and every day to the fullest!
May 21, 2018
There are not words to describe how this book has 'interrupted' my way of thinking. Teresa's story not only inspires, but challenges in the best possible way to think outside the box, to see God's movement in new and exciting ways, and to truly ask ourselves if we are living complacently and comfortably instead of boldly and abundantly. Teresa is raw and honest about the challenges she has faced, the moments that were tough and exhilirating to walk through, and the ways in which God has interrupted what she thought was the perfect plan. It has given me hope to believe that perhaps God too has given me what I once wanted to help me realize I was made for more.
May 12, 2020
Teresa has the ability to draw you into her story like a cherished friend, sharing the insights and lessons and joys she's had along the way. This was an easy read - the pages turned quickly - but I'm encouraged and challenged to walk differently in my life.
I'm thankful she shared her story, the story of how God has changed and challenged and molded her through her marriage and her 6 kids: her birth children and the adoption of 4 other individual children, each from Ethiopia. But it's not a book just about adoption; it's about stepping out in the direction God has put before you and walking through both joy and sorrow as He makes you more like Jesus.
I'm thankful she shared her story, the story of how God has changed and challenged and molded her through her marriage and her 6 kids: her birth children and the adoption of 4 other individual children, each from Ethiopia. But it's not a book just about adoption; it's about stepping out in the direction God has put before you and walking through both joy and sorrow as He makes you more like Jesus.
August 17, 2018
What can I say about this book. I absolutely love it, I love how raw and real Teresa is and how she isn't afraid to share her struggles with the world. She lets everyone know that no matter what you think is happening in someones life you honestly never know and never will unless you are living that life. She shares how we can all relate to each other no matter where we are in life . Her voice in this book is so powerful and full of light. She has inspired me to live a powerful life and to keep pushing forward no matter what.
February 12, 2020
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I liked this book! At times the religious-ness of the book was a bit much for me (I am not religious). The author shares her beautifully complex life story. I did find that the story jumped around a bit and I was confused as to why she included certain aspects of her story. Overall I was really glad I read the book and I plan to keep it by my bedside for a while to reference.
July 14, 2018
What an inspiring book! I typically don't re-read nonfiction books, but I will be going back to this one for sure. Not only did I enjoy reading about Teresa's life journey, but I loved that she inserted Bible scripture into her narrative. I read this at a time I really needed to hear the message of God writing my story. Thanks, Teresa, for using your story to share inspiration with readers!
May 23, 2018
This book was captivating and hard to put down. It taught me a lot of truths about letting God lead the way. My margins of the book are filled with hearts, stars, and exclamation points, because this book hits you right in the heart! Highly recommend!
August 15, 2018
Such an amazing book! It's such an easy read and definitely hard to put down. The book is relative to anyone adopting or not, I was highlighting so many things she would say. You really get a great look into Teresa's heart in this book.
August 16, 2020
This book was surprising to me. I picked it up at Ollie's a while back, only just deciding to read it. I learned a lot. I found a lot of new goals to consider. She's a great story teller and reveals that life doesn't go according to our plans, but it's okay
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March 31, 2023this book changed the game
May 15, 2018
I absolutely loved this book and found myself relating to much of its content! In the book, the author reveals the importance her faith played in shaping her life, particularly as she found herself becoming the one thing she never imagined: a mother! She relays her fears of stepping outside her comfort zone and adopting 4 children internationally and moving away from friends and family. She is refreshingly honest as she discusses the difficulties she has faced and the specific ways God prepared her for life’s challenges. I recommend this for anyone who could use an inspiring and encouraging read!
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. All stated opinions are my own.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher. All stated opinions are my own.
May 15, 2018
I can't say enough great things about this book. LOVE IT. It is for the teenager, the single, the young mom, the older parent.... We all can learn about chasing after adventure, by setting our plans aside and opening our arms up to what God has for us. Such a fun and easy read. Hard to put down. Love it.
May 17, 2018
This book is beautifully written with an authentic and open dialogue from Teresa Swanstrom Anderson. I literally read this book from beginning to end in one afternoon. I was captivated by her honest story of her life as well as all of the thought provoking things that really made me take a step back and wonder what else God is doing in my life. I can't wait to gift this book to my friends and family over the next few weeks!
Favorite quote of the book: Still unaware what my purpose or assignment from God was, I knew what it wasn't. Holding on to that, I continued forward as I worked on becoming a woman of substance. page 50
Favorite quote of the book: Still unaware what my purpose or assignment from God was, I knew what it wasn't. Holding on to that, I continued forward as I worked on becoming a woman of substance. page 50
May 18, 2018
I enjoyed this book, cover to beautiful cover. Teresa pours out her soul and takes you along on the journey as God moves in her life. Her writing style is easy and breezy and you almost feel her pop out the page likes she speaking directly to you. There's a reflection "guide" at the end that's great for a bible study group or a book club or just to dive deeper into your own walk with God. There's plenty of scripture but not so much that it becomes "preachy". To be honest I found it to be faith inspiring. Great book!!
May 20, 2018
This book was so beautifully written. The story of author’s life was captivating. I was drawn in and found myself thinking if we knew each other we would certainly be friends. I was challenged to grow and risk in faith all the while feeling encouraged. This book is at the top of my favorites list!!
June 5, 2018
Love her writing ! Great book on faith and living from a God centered perspective. Enjoyed the beautiful way she wrote about her surroundings and the love for her adoptive children and how she was courageous enough to listen to God.
Want to read
August 20, 2018Foreword review.
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