Title: Books About Heaven That Brought Us Hope After Loss (Episode 17)

In this “girlfriends around the table” conversation, Cindy and Vickie share how reading books about Heaven helped them process grief after losing their husbands—and how a clearer picture of eternity can bring real, steady hope today. They talk through a short list of books that shaped their imagination, comforted their hearts, and reminded them that Heaven is not “clouds and harps,” but a restored, vibrant life with God.

1. Why books about Heaven can bring comfort in grief and “spark your imagination” again.
2. A grounded reminder: Cindy and Vickie are simply sharing what helped them (and encourage listeners to do their own due diligence).
3. How your view of the future affects how you feel today—and why that matters when you’re grieving.
4. Personal moments of hope, including Cindy’s “download” image of her husband running and jumping in the mountains.
5. Beautiful imagery from near-death / Heaven-vision accounts: the river of life, peace, and nature that “doesn’t die.”

1) Heaven — Randy Alcorn

A deep, scripture-shaped look at Heaven and the “new earth,” meant to change how we live now.

2) All Things New — John Eldredge

A reminder that Heaven isn’t vague or boring—and that hope grows when we remember “nothing is lost” for the believer.

3) Within Heaven’s Gates — Rebecca Springer

A republished (early 1900s-era) account that brought comfort—especially the imagery of home, flowers, the river of life, and meeting Jesus.

4) My Time in Heaven — Richard Sigmund

A near-death account that emphasizes eternal life—“there is no death in Heaven”—and vivid descriptions of creation.

Also mentioned: Imagine Heaven (near-death experiences; author not named in the episode).

1. 1 Peter 1:3–5 (hope of eternal life / inheritance)
2. 1 Corinthians 13:13 (faith, hope, love)
3. Romans 6:23 and Acts 17:28
4. Acts 3:21 (restoration)

1. “We’re just girlfriends around the table.”
2. “In your grief… remember there is a place called Heaven.”
3. “Nothing dies in Heaven.”

Have a book about Heaven that helped you? Cindy and Vicki invite listeners to email and share what you read and how it encouraged you.

A prayer for listeners: that God would spark imagination, renew hope, and bring an end to the spirit of grief.

After losing a husband, it can feel like a huge part of who you are disappeared too. In this episode, Vickie and Cindy talk about rebuilding identity from the inside out—starting with who you are in Christ, and then rediscovering who you are as a woman with preferences, strengths, dreams, and new courage. They share real examples of learning new skills, making big decisions solo, creating a home that fits you, and trying things you never thought you’d do on your own.

1) Your foundation: identity in Christ

They encourage widows to anchor themselves in “who you are in Him”—loved, free, able to have peace and joy—and to search scripture for every “in Him” reminder.

2) Discovering strength through hard moments

From moving furniture to changing a mower battery, they share how hard situations can reveal capability you didn’t know you had.

3) Learning to make decisions again—big ones

They talk about the reality of selling a home, buying a car, choosing a new place to live, and thinking through maintenance and support—one decision at a time.

4) New confidence: projects, plans, and God’s help

A story about building a sunroom becomes a picture of persistence, problem-solving, and trusting God in the process (even in the stressful parts).

5) Practical faith in real life

One moment of panic—rain leaking into the bedroom—turns into prayer, and a reminder of God’s protection and presence.

6) Permission to outsource + permission to decorate “like you”

They discuss choosing a lawn service (because it’s not your gift), and the freedom to make your home reflect you now.

7) Letting go, keeping what brings joy

When downsizing, Cindy shares a simple filter: keep only what brings joy—and release what doesn’t.

8) Try something new: movement, skills, creativity, travel

Roller skating at 68. Driving the boat yourself. Learning computers. Watercolor. Travel—even solo. These are all examples of reclaiming life and discovering new passions.

9) “Your story is yours now.”

They close with encouragement: the old chapter was real, but a new one is possible—don’t be afraid to pursue a dream.

1. 00:00–02:00 — Why identity in Christ matters after loss
2. 02:00–05:30 — New strengths: tools, repairs, big life decisions
3. 05:30–08:30 — Sunroom story: choosing courage, trusting God through the process
4. 09:00–12:30 — Rain leak + prayer + learning to outsource what you don’t want to carry
5. 12:30–15:30 — Decorating, downsizing, keeping what brings joy
6. 16:00–19:00 — Try something new (roller skating, boating, computers)
7. 19:00–23:00 — New passions (watercolor, travel, Grandma Moses) + final encouragement

1. “I can do all things in Him…”

In this episode of A Widow’s Life, Vickie and Cindy talk about something that can feel almost “too light” in grief—joy—and why laughter and hugs are not only allowed, but healthy and healing. They share practical ideas to invite laughter back in, encourage you to choose joy on purpose, and remind you that God is present with you as you take the next step forward.

1. Why laughter is good medicine—and how it can reduce stress, lift mood, and help you face hard days.
2. Simple ways to “find your laugh” again (classic shows, funny videos, friends who make you laugh, even joke books).
3. The surprising truth: even a “forced” laugh can turn into real laughter and shift your body and emotions.
4. Choosing joy intentionally—especially when the day feels heavy.
5. The power of hugs (and learning to receive them), including the encouragement to ask for one when you need it.
6. Feeling “hugged by God” in seasons of loneliness, and going to Him when you need comfort.
7. A tender reassurance: laughing again isn’t a betrayal of the spouse you lost.

1. Proverbs 31:25 — “She… laughs without fear of the future.”
2. Psalm 2:4 — God laughs (and He’s not intimidated by the enemy).
3. Job 8:21 — God will fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with joy.
4. Psalm 30:11 — Mourning turned into dancing; clothed with joy.
5. Proverbs 17:22 — A merry heart is good like medicine.

1. Put on something that makes you laugh—an old sitcom, a funny clip, or “babies laughing.”
2. Call (or text) that friend whose laugh always makes you laugh too.
3. If you don’t feel joyful yet, start with a small declaration: “I choose joy today.”
4. Don’t be afraid to ask: “I need a hug.”
5. When the loneliness hits, ask God for comfort—He meets you there.

If laughter feels complicated right now, you’re not doing grief “wrong.” This episode is a reminder that joy can return in small, faithful steps—and you don’t have to be afraid of it.

Absolutely — here are polished, ready-to-post Show Notes for this episode.

Coping Skills That Actually Help: Finding Joy After Loss

In this episode of A Widow’s Life, Cindy and Vicki share real-life coping techniques that have helped them navigate grief and keep moving forward after losing their husbands. From painting and writing to exercise, dancing, Bible study, traveling, and even trying new adventures—this conversation is a gentle reminder that healing isn’t about “moving on”… it’s about learning how to live again, one step at a time.

They also share powerful encouragement that the best years of your life may still be ahead of you—no matter your age—and that God still has purpose and joy waiting for you.

1. Finding creative outlets like painting, crafting, and making handmade cards
2. Taking on new challenges that keep your mind engaged
3. Writing and creating something meaningful, even if you’ve never done it before
4. Building community through Silver Sneakers, group classes, and new friendships

1. Exercise for flexibility, mental health, and emotional strength
2. Why dancing is great brain training (and a reason to laugh at yourself!)
3. “Do it afraid” — stepping out even when confidence is low

1. The impact of prayer groups and Bible studies
2. Why it’s okay to start small—invite one person and build from there
3. God can still use your gifts, even in quiet, simple ways

1. Traveling as a widow (alone or with groups)
2. Exploring local options like bus trips, community activities, and group outings
3. Why trying something new can bring life back into your world

Cindy and Vicki share a powerful reminder:

✨ Your most productive years may still be ahead.

They discuss the idea that your 60s, 70s, and beyond can still be filled with purpose, growth, and joy.

1. If something sparks your interest—even a little—try it.
2. Healing often comes through movement, creativity, and connection.
3. Laughing at yourself helps you stay brave.
4. You are not done. Your life still has meaning.
5. Your best years are still ahead of...

In this episode of The Widow’s Life, Vickie and Cindy share a simple but powerful perspective shift that can transform how we navigate grief, loneliness, and everyday challenges: thankfulness—an attitude of gratitude paired with praise and worship. Attitude with gratitude

They talk honestly about how gratitude doesn’t erase the pain of loss, but it does help you choose joy, renew your mind, and reconnect with the goodness of God—one small moment at a time. Attitude with gratitude

1) The “secret” that shifts your perspective

Thankfulness isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a daily choice that can soften the heaviness of widowhood and help you move forward with strength. Attitude with gratitude

2) Choosing joy when you wake up

Vicki shares how, after losing her husband, she realized each morning she could choose joy or sadness—and that choosing joy on purpose matters. Attitude with gratitude

3) God helps you find something to be thankful for

Cindy shares a testimony of asking the Holy Spirit for help when she felt she had nothing to be grateful for—and how a small moment (two little boys on a bike) helped her smile again after months. Attitude with gratitude

4) Gratitude for the “small things” can be a BIG turning point

They share real-life examples of God showing up in everyday needs—like not being alone on Father’s Day, and unexpected help with home issues (those stubborn ceiling fans!). Attitude with gratitude

5) “In everything give thanks” (but not for everything)

This is a key part of the conversation: we are not thankful for tragedy—but we can give thanks while God is carrying us through it. Attitude with gratitude

6) Don’t live as a victim—choose to be a victor

They encourage listeners to resist the trap of “woe is me” living and instead stand in victory through Jesus. Attitude with gratitude

7) Practical ways to renew your mind when grief tries to take over

They talk about redirecting your thoughts toward what is good, lovely, and life-giving—and even using sticky notes or scripture cards around the house as reminders. Attitude with gratitude

1. Colossians 3:15 — “Let the peace of Christ rule… and be thankful.” Attitude with gratitude
2. Philippians 4:8 — Think on what is lovely, pure, and of good report. Attitude with gratitude
3. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 — “In everything give thanks…” Attitude with gratitude
4. Psalm 23 — The Lord as Shepherd: guidance, peace, and provision in a new season. Attitude with gratitude
5. Psalm 26 / Psalm 30 — Using your voice to give thanks and praise. Attitude with gratitude

If grief has been loud lately, start small:

✅ When you wake up tomorrow, say out loud:

“Today is the day the Lord has made—I choose to rejoice.” Attitude with gratitude

Then ask God to help you notice one thing to be thankful for—something simple, something real, something that reminds you you’re still here… and He’s still with you.

In Part 2 of Sharon’s story, she shares what it was like to start dating after losing her husband unexpectedly at 37, how “Mr. Perfect” wasn’t what he seemed, and what she learned through a difficult second marriage and divorce. She also talks about grief counseling, the guilt that can come with moving forward, leaning into faith for healing, and how she eventually found her way into a healthier marriage—plus the real-life adjustments that come with being independent for a long time.

1. Sharon’s timeline: widowed at 37, and dating seriously about 9–10 months later
2. “Mr. Perfect”: charm, spiritual concerns, and the pressure to move fast
3. A hard-earned takeaway: premarital counseling matters (even when you think you’re sure)
4. The complicated emotions of moving forward—excitement, guilt, and grief
5. A candid conversation about grief counseling: group vs. one-on-one, and why it can help
6. Faith-centered encouragement on “natural grief” vs. what they call a “spirit of grief,” including prayer
7. Sharon’s reminder: don’t neglect time with God—Psalms as a lifeline when you’re too deep to read much else
8. Divorce grief and guilt—and why it can feel harder than widowhood
9. Encouragement to live your life, build friendships, and not make “getting a man” the next finish line
10. Sharon’s new chapter: remarried for almost four years, and learning how to grow in the differences

1. 00:00 – Welcome + Sharon returns for Part 2
2. 00:01 – Widowed at 37; the early grieving season
3. 00:02–00:08 – “Mr. Perfect,” red flags, moving too fast, and why Sharon stayed 10 years
4. 00:07–00:08 – “Be careful, be wise” + premarital counseling
5. 00:09–00:11 – Grief counseling and the guilt of dating again
6. 00:12–00:15 – Prayer + encouragement for heavy, ongoing grief
7. 00:15–00:19 – Staying close to God; Psalms; invitation to begin a relationship with Jesus
8. 00:20–00:23 – Divorce guilt, forgiveness, and learning to move forward
9. 00:23–00:30 – Remarriage, expectations, independence, and adjusting as a couple

In this episode of A Widow’s Life with Vicki and Cindy, Cindy and Vicki welcome guest Sharon Perry, who shares her testimony of becoming a widow at 37 after her husband suffered a fatal head injury—“one minute I am married and the next minute I’m not.”

Sharon talks honestly about how grief can feel in a small town where everyone knows you (and keeps reminding you), and how God met her in deeply personal ways—through a “safe place” with her mother, a worship chair in her bedroom, and even practical moments where she needed “husband-help” and asked the Lord to step in.

1. Sharon’s story: widowed at 37, with her only child newly away in the Navy
2. The tension of small-town kindness… and how it can keep grief constantly in front of you
3. How God used Sharon’s mother (living with severe dementia) to give Sharon a “normal” space to breathe
4. The “chair” moment: “I’m gonna go over and sit on God’s lap”
5. A practical miracle story (moving heavy furniture) + encouragement for the listener who feels like they have no help
6. Financial overwhelm after loss—and Sharon’s choice to stay faithful and keep trusting God
7. Why speaking truth out loud matters when you’re alone, and how to resist the enemy’s lies

1. 00:00 – Welcome + why the show exists
2. 01:00 – Sharon’s loss: “one minute I am married…”
3. 02:00–03:00 – Small town grief + the “spirit of grief” conversation
4. 04:00–06:00 – Sharon’s mom as a surprising “safe place”
5. 06:00–08:00 – The chair story: tangible comfort and peace
6. 09:00–11:00 – “God, I need help” (furniture story) + prayer for listeners
7. 13:00–14:30 – Financial pressure, tithing, and God’s provision
8. 15:00–17:20 – “Lord, I trust you” + Proverbs 3:5–6
9. 17:30–18:00 – Closing, blessing, and a tease that Sharon will be back for Part 2

1. Jeremiah 29:11
2. Proverbs 3:5–6

1. “One minute I am married and the next minute I’m not.”
2. “I’m gonna go over and sit on God’s lap.”
3. “If he did it for me, he’ll do it for you. Just never give up on...

Episode snapshot: Cindy and Vickie meet listeners on Christmas Day with comfort for widows—whether you’re surrounded by family or spending the day alone—by revisiting the Christmas story, focusing on the angels’ message, and offering practical ways to push back fear and choose peace.

On Christmas Day, Vickie and Cindy reflect on the meaning behind familiar Christmas songs and the birth of Jesus, then read the story of the shepherds and the angels (Luke 2). From there, the conversation turns into gentle coaching for widows: how to resist fear (especially around finances and the future), how to “capture” dark thoughts, and how to intentionally shift from “woe is me” into gratitude, worship, and joy.

Vicki shares how, after coming to faith, the lyrics of well-known Christmas songs became deeply meaningful—each one pointing back to Jesus’ birth and lifting her perspective.

They read Luke 2:8–18 and reflect on the awe of God’s presence, the angels’ announcement of “good tidings of great joy,” and how the shepherds responded—going to see Jesus and telling others.

The episode pivots to practical encouragement: fear can be loud (especially after loss), but the hosts emphasize trusting God and refusing to let fear lead your thoughts or decisions.

Vicki shares a memorable “puppet skit” story about a child afraid at night—and how quoting Scripture and telling fear to leave became a practical pattern she still uses.

A standout moment: Vicki describes opening the front and back doors and literally sweeping through the house while commanding fear to go—ending in praise as the fear lifted.

They name how easy it is to slip into “woe is me” during the holidays and encourage listeners to intentionally look for what’s good, worship, and receive peace as a choice.

1. Luke 2:8–18 (and through the shepherds’ response) — Angels, “good tidings,” peace, and the shepherds going to see Jesus.
2. 2 Timothy 1:7 — “God has not given us a spirit of fear…” (quoted in the fear story).
3. Jeremiah 29:11 — God’s good plans for the future (referenced as encouragement for the new year).
4. Job 3:25 — fear opening the door / what is feared coming upon a person (discussed as a warning against living in fear).
5. “A merry heart does good like medicine” (referenced as encouragement to choose joy).

1. If you feel alone today: you’re not forgotten—turn toward worship and the Christmas story as a lifeline.
2. When fear shows up, name it and challenge it—out loud if you need to.
3. Interrupt spirals by shifting your body (walk, dance, clean, praise—anything that breaks the...