Tightropes and Teeter-Totters

Finding Balance in the Ups and Downs of Life



by Lisa Pennington

David C Cook

You Are Auto-Approved

David C. Cook



Self-Help, Christian

Pub Date 01 Feb 2017

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy of Tightropes and Teeter-Totters through the publisher and Netgalley:

This book reminds us that in life we will face falls, that sometimes we will feel like we ere on a teeter-totter, but we are reminded that Grace comes in when we are finding ways to recover. We are reminded too that that it is not about finding a formula that works for everyone.

Women are reminded of the importance of not only taking the time to care for our families, but also making sure we take the time to care for ourselves as well.

We are reminded too of the importance of keeping marriages alive. We are reminded too that we all have our gifts.

I give Tightrope and Teeter-Totters five out of five stars.

Happy Reading.

Do you wish you could keep all the different elements of life in balance? Perhaps a book with some humorous stories, a Godly perspective, and joyful triumphs? This is the one for you. As Lisa points out in the beginning of her book, she wants to show you that life is like "a love story between me and God. Or you and God". And it's gooood.

I've read Lisa's blog, some of her children's blogs, and feel like I kind of "know" the family. So it was an "of course, I'm going to read the new Pennington book!" moment as soon as I saw that it had been released.

Each chapter focuses on one of many topics in our lives today, and repeatedly takes you through the B.A.L.A.N.C.E. process each time. Lisa has concocted her own way of navigating most of life's craziest areas -- and navigating well. I found a lot of helpful guidelines and sound wisdom in her words.

One of my favorite quotes from Lisa's book is this:

"Balance is quickly figuring out how hard to lean into the unexpected gust of wind so you don't blow away."

How true!!!! I applaud that sentiment. I hope to retain it and mentally use it -- a lot.

Some of the topics she covers include: Social Life, Friends, Marriage, Motherhood, Finances, and an assortment of other things too... like keeping yourself in line! With each topic, she shows you the B.A.L.A.N.C.E. checklist (yes, it's an acronym, and yes, it works every time once you learn it!), and she shows you how to come out victorious in each kind of situation. You learn that instead of rushing into an argument with a trusted friend, you should take a step back and think about it first. When your kids are really getting on your nerves, you can overcome the turbulence with grace.

"You are worth complete joy. You are worth peace in hard times."

Preach it!

The type of reader that would best benefit from or enjoy this book is the moms out there, but women of all ages (including single young ladies such as myself) can appreciate most of the scenarios that Lisa covers. I spiritually enjoyed reading the book, and it was a mind reset for me. I believe Lisa's new book Tightropes and Teeter-Totters to be an encouragement to all women. It doesn't matter your situation, you can improve areas in your life if you work on them. And this book is an excellent source of advice on how to find the peace and joy in life that we all need.

"Instead of dulling our senses by blaming our problems on others, let's reach for the stars and see God's glory in every trial."

The author’s conversational tone and examples really make the book.The author is the mother of 9 children so you definitely feel she has the experience to help you try to find your personal balance. She is encouraging and offers realistic expectations of what those changes can mean to your life.

Lisa Pennington was truly inspired when she wrote her book Tightropes and Teeter-Totters: Finding Balance in the Ups and Downs of Life. As the title indicates, this book discusses how to find balance in life. Whether it is during the good times or the bad times. Pennington discusses different ways to find Balance by using acronyms—Begin; Assess; Learn; Account; Notify; Change; and Endure. These can be used in all aspects of life, including finding time for oneself, finding time as a couple, finding time as a mother, etc. Life can be rough, finding balance can be a key to unlocking true happiness. Readers will love Pennington’s down to earth writing, as well as feel a kinship with her as she shares personal examples to help inspire readers. I would recommend this book to mothers that are striving to find ways to better balance the many challenges in life.