Charles E. Hummel examines the charismatic renewal--its biblical roots, influence on many Christian traditions and new expressions.

Publisher description

Blending social analysis and philosophy, Albert Borgmann maintains that technology creates a controlling pattern in our lives. This pattern, discernible even in such an inconspicuous action as switching on a stereo, has global effects: it sharply divides life into labor and leisure, it sustains the industrial democracies, and it fosters the view that the earth itself is a technological device. He argues that technology has served us as well in conquering hunger and disease, but that when we turn to it for richer experiences, it leads instead to a life dominated by effortless and thoughtless consumption. Borgmann does not reject technology but calls for public conversation about the nature of the good life. He counsels us to make room in a technological age for matters of ultimate concern—things and practices that engage us in their own right.

Backyard fire features are among today's hottest outdoor living trends. In his latest book, Scott Cohen's Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire-Pits, the acclaimed garden designer shares his secrets for using fire to turn any patio into a warm, inviting outdoor room. From romantic stone fireplaces to crowd-pleasing fire circles to dramatic fire bowls, torches and troughs, you'll find what you need to create dazzling nighttime displays in this essential volume for homeowners, outdoor designers and builders. The latest in his outdoor design series, Cohen's book includes hundreds of colorful, inspiring photos along with specific guidelines, plans, blueprints, and tips you can use to build your own outdoor fireplace or fire pit. From massive to modest, there are fire features here to suit nearly any yard. Cohen offers advice on choosing the appropriate feature for your space, lifestyle and entertaining needs. He covers aesthetics, safety, fuel options, cost considerations, sizing, layout, permitting and construction how-to's-all with the depth of detail that comes only from experience. He even shares his special techniques for combining fire and water to create stunning visual effects. A warming fire dramatically extends the time you're able to use your outdoor living space. Fire adds ambiance, light, romance and most of all relaxing comfort. When designed and crafted with the kind of care Cohen recommends, a backyard fire feature will give you and your guests years of enjoyment.

Legendary songwriter Gloria Gaither takes a nostalgic look at treasured memories made around the hearth, the heart of her family's home. Her poetic language makes this comforting, affirming book read like her songs. You'll remember the warmth and meaningful associations of fireplaces past—or wish for such a place now.

This New York Times bestselling book is filled with hundreds of fun, deceptively simple, budget-friendly ideas for sprucing up your home. With two home renovations under their (tool) belts and millions of hits per month on their blog YoungHouseLove.com, Sherry and John Petersik are home-improvement enthusiasts primed to pass on a slew of projects, tricks, and techniques to do-it-yourselfers of all levels. Packed with 243 tips and ideas—both classic and unexpected—and more than 400 photographs and illustrations, this is a book that readers will return to again and again for the creative projects and easy-to-follow instructions in the relatable voice the Petersiks are known for. Learn to trick out a thrift-store mirror, spice up plain old roller shades, "hack" your Ikea table to create three distinct looks, and so much more.