Grace for the Race: Meditations for Busy Moms    by Dena Dyer Order:  USA  Can Barbour, 2004 (2004) Paperback      Reviewed by Melissa Parcel Mothers looking for hope in their lives will be enlightened and encouraged by Grace for the Race. This series of devotions (geared toward different stages in the life of a woman and mother) will uplift readers in many ways. Each devotion starts with a quote, has a short essay, and then ends with 'Notes from the Coach,' which are Bible verses that apply to the reading. Nine sections divide a mother's life into stages. 'Training Well' relates different things the author has learned about parenting. 'Warming Up' and 'Stretching Out' are about accepting our own weaknesses and those of our children. 'The First Lap' is all about those first few years of parenting. 'Using Proper Equipment' focuses on prayer, friends, humor, the church, and other things which can be our greatest weapons against discouragement. In 'Hopping Over the Hurdles', Dyer focuses on obstacles to growing and becoming a godly woman. 'Handing It Off' talks about reaching out to others and enduring difficult times. 'In the Final Stretch' shows how God can help us reach into our reserves if we need to. 'Crossing the Finish Line' helps us learn to share our faith. Finally, 'On the Podium' talks about the gifts we receive. Each section imparts wisdom, humor, and just the right amount of encouragement for moms who are burned out, busy, and needing a pick-me-up. God's Word sprinkled throughout the readings gives added emphasis to God's ideal for our lives. For moms (including myself) who struggle with perfectionism and busyness, Dena Dyer's transparency is refreshing. The readings are the perfect length for moms to fit into the small bits of time available in their days. Grace for the Race would make an excellent gift for any mom in your life. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews