Lakeside Retreat: Life-Giving Devotions from a Restful Shore

by Marci Seither

Looking for a way to escape the complexities of life and reconnect with God?

Close your eyes for a moment. Inhale. Can you smell the pine trees? Now listen. Can you hear the loon’s call echo off the water and the geese honking as they fly overhead? Now imagine tasting the smoke-tainted marshmallows straight out of the campfire. Think about feeling the warm summer sun on your skin and the cool breeze against your face. Lakeside Retreat is an invitation to surround yourself with the majesty of God’s creation and wrap yourself in the warm blanket of Scripture’s wonderful, eternal truths.

Let this collection of vacation-themed devotions, recipes, and DIY projects transport you to a quiet place of rest, renewal, and connection with God.

208 pages, Hardcover

Published July 5, 2022

Reviews

[Sarah Sundin · Rating 5 out of 5]

All of the restfulness of a lakeside retreat and none of the mosquitos!

Marci Seither's lovely book is full of gorgeous photography – it even has a ribbon marker! Each short reading in Lakeside Retreat is an escape from work and stress. The recipes and ideas for family activities invite you to connect with family and a childlike sense of wonder. And each devotional story points you to the ultimate source of rest, the Lord.

Marci’s welcoming and engaging writing pulls you in so you smell the pine and feel the lake water on your bare feet. The stories are humorous and touching and inspiring, and Marci extracts incredible stories from the people and scenery around Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin. Buy one copy of this book for yourself – and another for a friend!

[W. Whalin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can You Use a Vacation?

Statistics prove Americans are some of the worst people for taking vacations. Author Marci Seither has written a remarkable devotional LAKESIDE RETREAT. This attractive book includes beautiful photographs and design combined with moving storytelling about what happens on a vacation or retreat. Each devotion included a well-crafted story, combined with a simple prayer, a suggested action and some space for you to journal inside this book. Sprinkled throughout the book are more detailed activities like how to create Pine Cone Birdfeeders or a recipe for Urban Retro Mama’s Hot Fudge Sauce.

Here's an example in the chapter called Memorial Stones. “Worry tends to drain us of joy, and I was feeling drained. At the cabin, I became more intentional about not checking my phone, social media, and the news. It wasn’t just a break. It was a relief. I could feel the tension I carried across my shoulders begin to loosen up. Having time to rest my mind, heart, and body was a blessing.” (Page 112)

Whether you read these devotions daily or go through the book once a year, LAKESIDE RETREAT will help you. I highly recommend it.

W. Terry Whalin is an editor and the author of more than 60 books including his recent 10 Publishing Myths, Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed .

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE Devotional books, they are a part of my Daily life. I usually have about 3 or 4 each year. I was really excited to read this devotional, Lakeside Retreat: Life-Giving Inspiration from a Restful Shore by Marci Seither, as it is Nature-Themed.

Lakeside Retreat is a devotional book that has all the feelings of being in Nature and surrounded by God's creation. The devotionals are Vacation Themed and also have Recipes and DIY projects that help the reader connect with God in a serene way.

I am a Nature LOVER and have always been the type of person who enjoys getting up early to do my devotions and has even taken my devotions out to the Forest Preserves to enjoy the beauty of Nature and be in a comfortable environment. I really like how the book is laid out. Each Chapter is short but packed with so many wise and encouraging thoughts. The Chapters have a topic that is covered with Scripture and a question of Reflection at the end of each Chapter. I am excited to try some of the Recipes and DIY Projects that are in the book. I HIGHLY recommend this Devotional Book for Nature LOVERS and those who are looking for a Devotional Book that encourages and uplifts the reader. FANTASTIC BOOK!

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

The cover captured my attention right away. It is an inviting cover and I felt peace surround me. The book gives you a feeling of rest as you enter the pages filled with breathtaking pictures. Inside the book you are welcomed with subjects that encourage, strengthen, hope and a deeper relationship with God.

The very first chapter made me stop and examine my heart. Are we carrying around things that we shouldn’t be? I am guilty of worrying about everything. What I need to do is give my burdens to Him and learn to trust Him. I get so wrapped up in my problems I forget that God is in control.

I love how the book is designed with a scripture for each chapter, a topic we can relate to and a question at the end that allows you to put what you read into action. The chapters are short but does not lack in wisdom. It reminded me about things like remembering to pray for each other and be available when someone is in need.

I have been to a cabin nestled in the woods several times and each time I had a hard time leaving. This book brought me back to those special times as I read the pages in this wonderful journey I am on with this book. It also includes a list of first aid items to help you pack for your trip as well as special recipes to enjoy as you take in God’s beauty in your special place. You will always find things to do with your family throughout the book like a scavenger hunt. I love how this book encourages family time with projects where you all work together.

I highly recommend that you get a copy for yourself and grab a few extra ones to give as gifts. I am placing this book in my purse to take with me wherever I go. I love how it transports me to a place that reminds me that , “Storms are a reminder to be thankful for the shelter that we have in the Lord.”

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Patti Whitson Stephenson She Lives to Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are many things that I love about this lovely, inspiring book. The hardback cover is beautiful and easily lends to this being a nice, smaller “coffee table” book. I love the photography that accompanies each devotional which adds to the experience of feeling that you are at the lake as you read this book. Each page of the book has a nice background, and the print is very easy on the eyes while reading. This book would be a beautiful, thoughtful gift.

But more importantly, I love the emphasis of the devotionals on faith, trust, and rest. The author not only emphasizes the need for true physical rest, but also reminds us where to find the peace of heart and mind that’s found only through a deep trust in God. Each devotional begins with a verse of scripture that relates to the day’s topic, and ends in a short prayer that’s a good starting point for a prayer of your own. The author’s writing style flows along smoothly as she shares her experiences at the lake and gently reminds us to always turn our thoughts towards God.

This book is not a Bible study or a deep dive into scripture, but it beautifully serves its purpose of helping us to remember to take the time to focus on our faithful God.

I voluntarily received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lakeside Retreat fills the reader with idyllic summer memories, God’s majesty all around, and excellent photographs and images that help bring the devotional together. The stories and Scriptural passages come together in a beautiful tapestry that kept me reading. I wanted to take this devotional and find some quiet place in nature to soak up the words of this book.

While growing up, our family often visited my great-uncle in the mountains of North Carolina. While he and my aunt called Asheville, North Carolina home. They also owned a piece of heaven on earth that I loved going to with my family. This cabin occupied a place on the South Fork of the Toe River, and I found myself reminiscing about our visits there while reading this devotional.

I also wanted to grab some watercolors, a sketchbook, pencils, and pens along with my Bible and the devotional to spend time with God in the world He created. Even though I now call eastern North Carolina home, I am sure I can find a piece of paradise on the beach to visit and commune with God. So check out this devotional for yourself. I definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marci Seither’s Lakeside Retreat: Life Giving Inspiration from a Restful Shore is a great devotional style book. It has sections that include: scripture, commentary, prayer and questions for a reader can answer in the space provided. Sprinkled throughout are recipes, tips, and activities that help get the readers closer to nature. There is, also, a ribbon attached for an easier way to bookmark my last placed read. I loved this style of devotional that truly inspired me.

Lakeside Retreat: Life Giving Inspiration from a Restful Shore will be getting five stars from me. Nature loving readers who are seeking encouragement and inspiration will want to grab this one up. I believe it would make a perfect gift.

I received a hard cover copy of Lakeside Retreat: Life Giving Inspiration from a Restful Shore from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lakeside Retreat is a devotional that is written by Marci Seither. I really enjoyed going through this devotion. I grew up near Lake Erie, in Cleveland Ohio. So I enjoyed the description and references to being outdoors by lakes. I love when I can close my eyes and see what I am reading. The author did a great job in balancing personal experiences that tied in well with the Bible verses she selected for the topics. The devotion is a perfect length for those who may not have a lot of time in the mornings.

This would make a perfect gift for those who are outdoor/nature/lake house lovers. I enjoyed going through it. It's a beautiful hardback book. I loved the pictures inside of it.

Thank you to the author, publisher and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book -- all thoughts are my own.

[Elizabeth Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Lakeside Retreat is a collection of devotions, recipes, and DIY projects that transport you to a quiet place of rest and reflection so serene you can almost feel the hammock sway beneath you as you listen to the water gently wash across the rocky shore."

I enjoyed reading through this devotional. Each one starts with a bible verse and ends with a prayer and a call to apply the devotional to your own life. It’s a beautiful hardback book with a ribbon bookmark. The photographs throughout the book are beautiful and encourage you to rest in the presence of the Lord. I enjoyed the self-reflection question at the end of each devotional with a space to journal. I think this devotional would make a beautiful addition to any coffee table.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and Celebrate Lit for allowing me to read a copy of this book; all thoughts are my own.

[Michelle Castaneda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lakeside Retreat by Marci Seither is a lovely devotional book, inside and out. Tyndall Publishers have designed a book that feels lovely in your hands yet sturdy enough to actually take to the lake. This book is the perfect companion for trips to the lake, trips to another vacation spot, or even for everyday devotions. Readers will enjoy the author’s storytelling as she relates lake experiences with God’s word. I especially loved the author’s inclusion of a few related recipes and activities throughout the book. If you are looking for a devotional that will inspire you to go outside or for a devotional to take outside with you, this is the book for you. I think readers of all ages would enjoy this book and find it to be the perfect beginning for time in God’s word. I received a copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

[Gail Hollingsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful little book with scripture, insight and stories of outdoors. I loved reading these thought provoking devotions that helped me search inside my own heart and soul. Camping, outdoors, campfires and nature are some of my favorite things and brought some of my memories to the surface. In between the stories are fun and helpful ideas. Game ideas to play, nature crafts to make, recipes to enjoy and even a list of supplies to put in a first aid kit.
This would make a wonderful gift book for a nature enthusiast or just someone that needs inspiration to lift their spirits. It has an inscription page in the front to use if giving as a gift.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really like “Lakeshore Retreat” by Mari Seither. It is a devotional book unlike any that I have read. There are no dates and you could pick up this book on any day and pick any day. I love how the author uses everyday situations like sunscreen and packing items to make her point in the devotion. Each devotion has a Biblical Scripture and ends with a prayer and questions that you can answer in a journal. These questions are personal to the reader. The pictures in this book is wonderful. This is another Wow book. I truly recommend it to everyone. This book has some recipes and craft ideals as well.



I received a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate lit and these opinions are my own.

[Christin Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply holding this darling book is like holding a piece of home. Each antidote, recipe, encouragement, and picture captures the beauty of family, the summons to personal growth, and the wonder of nature. It was such a delight to read, that I've added it to my packing list for our upcoming family lake retreat, and look forward to reading several excerpts with the cousins. It's a perfect gift for anyone who loves stories, good food, and making memories. Each chapter is a short, easy read, with gorgeous pictures and gentle encouragement towards personal reflection. 5 stars!

[Carole Barber · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lakeside Retreat Delivers!
Marci Seither has captured the sounds and smells of a vacation along a favorite lake in her newest book release, Lakeside Retreat: Life-Giving Inspiration from a Restful Shore.
Along with favorite memories as a child, campfire smores, fireflies, recipes and bits of humor, she's masterfully wrapped it all up in a gingham bow just for you. You'll be blessed by sweet devotionals and welcoming sounds from the Loons as the water laps against the boat dock. Come away to the Lakeside Retreat.

[Becky Dempsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fun book. It is filled with little stories having to do with spending time by the lake/camping that are then related to a spiritual thought. They are each started with a verse and then ended with a prayer and call to apply it to your own life. Interspersed throughout the book are craft ideas, recipes, and tips. With its beautiful photos and ribbon bookmark, this would look nice sitting on a coffee table as well.

I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is good. It showed me that I stress entirely too much over things I should be giving to God. I may talk to him about it but I don’t truly give it over.

The set up of the chapters is great. I think the relaxing feel you get from the book is wonderful. Everyone should read and take it in.

5/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Laurie Herlich, Author · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marci Seither’s Lakeside Retreat is a devotional like none I’ve ever read through. I saved it to take on vacation and it did not disappoint.
Marci’s daily devotions combined refreshing approaches to a deeper relationship with God with the serenity of a few weeks at a lakeside cabin.
Also included in the devotional are various craft projects and recipes, both of which can be shared with children.
I was disappointed to complete the devotional (to which I shall return in the future), and hope that the author will create companion books for Seaside and Snowy Mountain Retreats.

[Janet McHenry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Give yourself a little retreat gift in this gorgeous, hardcover devotional book. Its reflections and artwork will fill your soul, so that even if you can't get lakeside this summer, you will find yourself refreshed all season long. It's a beautiful gift for yourself or someone you love.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marci weaves words around a beautiful memory for her in a way that makes it a lovely story for the reader. Plus, all the fantastic recipes. Devotion and cookbook all in one.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful little book! It has some fun pictures that take you to the woods and lakeside. There is a daily devotional that ties in with a story so it is very relatable. My favorite part of this book are the recipes and activity recommendations. From cobbler to pine cone bird feeders there is something fun for each reader to enjoy. While reading the pages of this book it truly is a simple little “retreat” to reflect, consider, and relate it to your own life. There is typically a question at the end that you can write an answer or just ponder such as “Are you carrying too much? Make a list of the ways you can help lighten your load.”



This would make a great gift!



Five Stars.



“I received this book from the author for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review.”

[Mary Hake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely book will take you along to a wonderful lakeside cabin and allow you to appreciate nature’s beauty and peacefulness along with the family and friends and the author who shares her personal vacation getaway experiences. The entries tell about what happen during her two weeks of rest and recreation along with insights and spiritual lessons she gleaned there. She also includes artwork and photographs along with some crafts, recipes, and suggestions such as for an emergency kit. So the book is uplifting and practical. You really feel like you accompanied her on this trip. Each chapter begins with an appropriate Bible verse related to the adventure of focus and closes with a brief first-person prayer and a question or two for reflection and a suggestion to apply. So come along to Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin, and enjoy the time away from the pressures of our fast-paced modern-day life. This could be used as a devotional or just as a book to read for pleasure and spiritual nurture. I received a copy from Celebrate Lit. All opinions are my own.

[Kimmie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the ways this book grabbed my attention is by the synopsis. Marci Seither draws you with the senses in a wonderful way, asking you to remember wonderful lake days that made you warm inside.

After that wonderful trip down memory lane Marci Seither then dives deep into the restful peace of scripture surrounded by truthful moments, heartfelt stories, and a multitude of ways to make you smile. I try to read at least one of two devotions a year and this one ranks as one of my all-time favorites.

Marci Seither did not disappoint in Lakeside Retreat and I am so thankful I was introduced to her writing! I am over half way through right now and I sincerely don’t want to do just one devo every day, I’d like to devour the whole book. But there is definitely something to savor with this one.

5 Stars. And this one is definitely a book to buy your friends as gifts for any occasion.

*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for rest for your mind and weary soul? Then look no farther as you navigate through these devotions that transport you to the restful shores of Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin. I felt drawn into a simpler time and wanted to go rest there. The photos are stunning and I enjoyed reading the recipes and projects that are included. Each devotion starts with a scripture and ends with a simple prayer along with questions to apply to your life. I will place this on my coffee table to use time and again for it’s beauty and the way it makes me feel at peace after reading. Would make a great gift.
I was blessed to receive a copy from CelebrateLit. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required.

[Christin Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply holding this darling book is like holding a piece of home. Each antidote, recipe, encouragement, and picture captures the beauty of family, the summons to personal growth, and the wonder of nature. It was such a delight to read, that I've added it to my packing list for our upcoming family lake retreat, and look forward to reading several excerpts with the cousins. It's a perfect gift for anyone who loves stories, good food, and making memories. Each chapter is a short, easy read, with gorgeous pictures and gentle encouragement towards personal reflection. 5 stars!

[E.V. Sparrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marci took readers with her into the woods and at the lake’s edge. I felt like a child exploring beauty and nature again, but seeing God more clearly. It was a cozy and insightful vacation from my daily life.

[Patience Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marci, I'm loving your devotional book.
To go on mini adventures with you everyday as the start of my sabbatical time is just what I've needed.
Thank you for sharing so many of your wonderful stories and the prompt of what to discuss with God from it.
Loving it and you.