Kayla Woodhouse is not your typical twelve year-old. Due to a rare medical disorder, she feels no pain, doesn't sweat - and needs protective cooling gear just to go outside. With her restrictive lifestyle and a mountain of hospital bills, what's a family to do?

How the Woodhouse family has faced seemingly impossible challenges is a story that has captured the hearts of America. Millions of people have experienced glimpses of their lives on various television shows.

Now Kayla's mom, Kimberley, takes readers behind the cameras to reveal their family's journey as never before told. From medical sleuthing to freak house fires, Welcome Home proves that truth really is stranger than fiction. This candid life-story reveals both success and failure, and demonstrates how, even during tough circumstances, you can shift your life from heartbreak to extreme joy.

Includes a 16 page photo insert that takes you inside the Woodhouse family's life - and their famous house!

Average Customer Rating:

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(22 Reviews) 22

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Customer Reviews for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Review 1 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

true informative, inspiring story

Date:February 22, 2012

Sammy

Quality:

5 out of 5

Value:

5 out of 5

Meets Expectations:

5 out of 5

What an amazing story about an amazing family that rose to the challenge of raising a child with a disabilities to not focus on that but to trust God in all .

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Review 2 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:December 28, 2009

Deena Peterson

Top 250 Contributor

When I found out Kimberley Woodhouse had written a book about her family and their journey to their extreme makeover, I was eager to read it. I'll also admit to having 'home envy' at times, and their home was a treat to behold.But Kimberley's journey is a difficult one, and one that she would readily admit cannot be made without a deep faith in God. His one lesson for her throughout her more than fourteen year journey: choose JOY.Kimberley chronicles the life of her family. From her early married years and their struggle to conceive, to the birth of their two children, Josh and Kayla. Both are unique individuals with a deep joy, instilled by their parents and sustained by God.Through moving, health nightmares and struggles to keep afloat in today's economy, the Woodhouse family can relate to just about anything you are going through, and then some. Yet Kimberley is open and honest about her struggle to learn God's lesson about joy.I was actually praying for something encouraging to read, as I'm in my own battle for joy right now. God lead me to pick up Kimberley's book. No matter what you're struggling with, let Kimberley and her 'normal', everyday family encourage your heart.And count it all as joy. Peter, James and Kimberley are encouraging you. I'm giving this encouraging and hope-filled book five out of five bookmarks, with a set of house keys as a charm.

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Review 3 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:October 14, 2009

Christine Woods

This is a very well written life story. I enjoyed it immensly, laughing and crying througout. It can be a bible study on how to rely on God. Not a direct step by step guideb but directing one to scriptures that you can learn and use to lean into God when times are hard. Great book!

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Review 4 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:October 7, 2009

booksbyjanice

If I could figure out a way to give this book TEN stars, I would do so. I guess five will have to do. Let me start by saying I thought I knew Kim. I've "known" her through American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) for years. I've "known" her as the recipient of my thoughts, love and prayers. I've "known" her from watching her story unfold on Extreme Home Makeover (and on Mystery Diagnosis on the Health Channel). I've "known" her as a mom who came to my local writing group to share the story of her daughter's rare health disorder and their struggles and victories. But I have to be honest. Until reading this book, I did not know Kim Woodhouse at all. To know someone, you have to walk with him/her, hand-in-hand, through life's ups and downs. Now that I've read this book, I feel that I have. I've cried with Kim as she received the difficult diagnoses for her children. I've traveled with her from state to state, house to house, looking for a "cool" place to stay. I've hoped, dreamed, wished and cared. . .about all of the things she hoped, dreamed, wished and cared about. Most of all, I've been given a rare glimpse into her spirit, where the real story lies. My faith has been increased as a result of reading this book. In fact, I can't wait to buy another copy to give to a loved one who's going through a trial so that her faith can be increased, too. Instead of going on and on and on about this book (which I could do), I will simply say, "If you're going through a difficult time and need a resurgence of hope. . .read this book." It will be the shot in the arm you've been needing. For in this book you will find the one true answer, the source of hope. Oh, and one more thing. I've come away from the book with a new appreciation for James 1:2: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds." I've been marching around my house with those words on my lips. May they forever remain!

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Review 5 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:September 29, 2009

Terri Haynes

Top 500 Contributor

I am primarily a pleasure/escapist reader. I love a story that takes me out of my life and transport me to another. Most of my book selections are based on how far it will take my from my own world, but occasionally, I read a book that causes me to look at my life in a different light. Welcome Home is one of those books. I haven't been gut-checked this hard since I read The Hole in the Gospel by Richard Sterns. The tagline to this book is "Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy." Extreme is a perfect word to describe this journey. The Woodhouse family's story in this book drives home the point that bad things happen to godly people, but God is able to sustain them through them all.I think that is greatest message I gained from this book. As I read this book, I thought to myself, I don't know if I could have handled all that. And Woodhouse makes it clear that she didn't think she could either. But the book is full of examples of God's ability to take care of His children.The second greatest message of the book, for me, was that I need to stop whining about the challenges in my life. No, I don't have as many challenges as the Woodhouse family did, but I serve the same God. If God brought them through (and continues to do so), then He is able to handle my problems. If you find yourself whining about the problems you have in your life, then this book is for you. It is a wonderful perspective change and it will show you how the possibility of having real, practical joy in your life.

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Review 6 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:September 29, 2009

Chandra Lynn Smith

Top 250 Contributor

Every now and then I come across a book that touches my heart. As I read such a book, I find myself laughing and crying as if I am part of the story. Kim Woodhouse's book is that kind of book. I knew a good bit about the story of this family before I opened the book. However, nothing prepared me for the faith and joy woven into every page of this book. This family has suffered a vast array of trials and tribulations, but I never found myself feeling pity for them. While I felt like they certainly deserved a break, I witnessed a family that truly grew stronger in their faith and love for each other through trials. The Woodhouse family has learned to 'count it all joy' whether they are in good times or bad. As a long time fan of the show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, I was moved by the story of the Woodhouse family getting their home. It also inspired me to know that the staff of the show is as sincere and dedicated as they appear on TV. This book is a must read for everyone. Buy it now, read it tomorrow. You'll not be disappointed. Then, the next time you find yourself in a difficult situation you may decide to 'count it all joy' as the Woodhouse family does.

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Review 7 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:September 24, 2009

Cheryl Wyatt

I loved this book so much that I wish every family in America could read it. I believe the Woodhouse Family's story will set hope deep in the hearts of everyone who reads it. Be sure to check out Kim's site kimberleywoodhouse dot com and pick up a copy of this book wherever books are sold. This is an amazing family who overcame trial after trial. Parents who wouldn't give up until doctors found a diagnosis for their daughter. This family and their story was truly an inspiration and a stellar example of people who have taken both the hard things as well as the honored things that life has given them and their family and humbly allowed God to use all of it for the noble purpose of reaching out to others and imparting true joy of the lasting kind. This book would also make a WONDERFUL gift for anyone in your life who is struggling to maintain joy in the midst of struggle. If you are in need of encouragemnt and inspiration, don't miss it!Cheryl Wyatt

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Review 8 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:August 24, 2009

Sharon A Lavy

Top 250 Contributor

Ive never met Kim Woodhouse. But after reading this book I sure want to. This puts my own problems in perspective. Kim is very truthful though out the book. She did have her down times, her pity parties and her rages. But she didnt need to stay there. And neither do we. She determined to have the Joy of the Lord in her heart in spite of the many obstacles that came her way. I had to think of the scripture in John 9:2-3 (King James Version)And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.

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Review 9 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:August 19, 2009

Debra Ullrick

Top 1000 Contributor

Want to see what real faith is. Real faith in action is when things dont always go our way and yet we trust God anyway. Thats what Kims book has taught me.It really helped me see God in a whole new light. Having come from a teaching that has all but destroyed my faith in a loving God, through Kims testimony, I saw a woman who, in spite of many horrific trials and tribulations, never lost faith in her God. Instead of turning away from Him, she turned to Him. Isn't that what real faith is? When you still trust in God when everything seems to be falling apart around you? Kim found comfort in His word, in prayer, and in God himself. Plus, Kim didn't have faith in her faith and in her works. Kim taught me that God is in control - not me in control through my works. What a load that takes off of my shoulders. Because of Kims book, for the first time in a long time, I'm reading the Word again. I'm enjoying it again. And, I've learned my name isn't Woe unto you, or Hypocrite. It's Beloved. Most of all, Kims book showed me that I can make it through any trial because the joy of the Lord is my strength.I highly recommend this book.

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Review 10 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:August 19, 2009

Katie

Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. Kimberley humbly recounts her family's story and gives all glory to the Lord. I was so encouraged as I read this. We all need the reminder of keeping joy even when trials seem never-ending. And I also needed the challenge given to stop wallowing in my pain or trails and start remembering the promises of God.

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Review 11 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

4 out of 5

Date:August 18, 2009

Dot Frappier

This detailed story of a 'journey to extreme joy' is certainly one with a great many 'bumps" in the road but is a wonderful account of how our LORD was there each step of the way,even though at times HE waited to show up. THis is truly a story of HIS loving care of this dear family, some seemingly impossible things all along the way, but Kayla has difficult things to deal with. Kim, as any normal mother, shows her frustrations and tears, (be prepared to join her with your box of tissue). She knows from where the answer must come and each time remembers the scripture HE gave her long ago in JAmes 1:2" Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience, Let patience have its perfect work...."You may have seen the Woodhouse's on various TV shows, how they were given a home...and we know not everyone who has a difficult problem will get one, but surely this story will encourage and bring hope to the reader as we see this incredible journey unfolded with HIS blessing.

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Review 12 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:August 13, 2009

Cindy Loven

Top 50 Contributor

WOW!! What a book, Kim Woodhouse brings us the story of her family's journey, thru trying and difficult medical times, as her daughter struggled with a rare medical disorder. This book ministered to me on a personal level, I cried and laughed throughout the book as Kim over and over again, returned to the verse the Lord kept giving her. Count it all joy was her motto. Many days she said it in faith, over and over, when her joy was no where to be found, when live was overwhelming her. Follow along as they move from state to state, working in ministry and trying to find a climate that would help her children with their physical ailments. Feel her pain, despair and angst as she struggles with wondering where they will live, how they will pay their bills. Learn there are still great people in this world, as people reach out and minister to the Woodhouse family. See in amazement as Extreme Home Makeover, builds them a beautiful home. Stand in awe and amazement at just how God works in their lives.This book is beautifully written, a story and a message for all of us. This book will minister to all who read it. A keeper for the personal library and a book you will want to share also.

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Review 13 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:August 1, 2009

Cara Putman

Top 25 Contributor

Be warned: if you pick this book up, you will find yourself pulled into the engaging and amazing journey that the Woodhouse family has traveled. Their story has been featured on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Mystery ER, and the Montel Williams Show. But with this book you will see so much more than the headlines. You'll delve into the faith journey this family has experienced as they struggled to find answers for their daughter Kayla. You will marvel at God's fingerprints in their lives. And you will be challenged by their journey to extreme joy.

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Review 14 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:July 31, 2009

Lori Brans

As a fan of the Extreme Home Makeover TV show, I often wonder about the "rest of the story". What happened before and after the cameras rolled? I always want to know more. I found what I was looking for in this book. Kimberly's open and honest style of writing made me feel like I was reading a letter from an old friend. She offered glimpses into the heart of their lives. I couldn't put it down. I was encouraged to see how Kimberly and her family held fast to hope, joy, and their faith - no matter how bleak their circumstances appeared. I found hope for my own life's trials, in the pages of this family's battle for "better" instead of "bitter". It reminded me that God is really in control and He has a plan for each of His children. No matter what you face in your life, you will be encouraged by the Woodhouse's story. I laughed and cried but most importantly - I closed the final page with a renewed sense of hope and JOY.

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Review 15 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:July 30, 2009

Edwina Cowgill

I am privileged to share with you one of the best inspirational books I have read in a long time. Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy is the chronicles of the Woodhouse Family: Dad, Jeremy; Mom, Kimberley; Son, Josh and Daughter, Kayla. From several miscarriages to the birth of Josh and then Kayla, from severe postpartum depression to the discovery of Kayla's extremely rare nerve disorder, Kimberley led her family on a journey to find out what it means to "count it all joy." Kimberley writes with a passion that draws you into her family, and you will fall in love with each member. Have your hankies ready - you will cry - but you will also laugh, smile, and sit on the edge of your seat as you wait for developments in Kayla's illness and treatment. You will be inspired to make James 1:2-4 your family's verse to live by: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." If you had to choose only one book to read in the remainder of 2009, make it "Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy." You will not regret it. I promise.

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Review 16 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:July 30, 2009

Delores Liesner

What an inspirational read! This is one of those rare stories that is so well-written you will not want to put it down. If, like me, you have experienced some of lifes extreme trials, or know someone who has, you will relate to Kimberleys exhaustion and times of wanting out. But you will also find comfort and direction from the scriptures with her, and just as she did, renew your determination to honor God through it all, while recognizing the multitude of joys that rise up despite every difficulty. Because Kimberley doesnt tell you about their story, but invites you in to watch, weep, and rejoice with the Woodhouse family, you will also find yourself cheering the family on as you experience their individual lives page after page. This very personal tale opens the door to the heart of a mother who eloquently shares the depth of her familys journey with God. Certainly the hope found here gives form to facing our challenges as well as a renewed desire to press on while remembering what God has already done for us. Every family should read this book together. It will draw your family closer, it will broaden your understanding of others needs, and it will give you courage to rise above surviving your trials, leading you to the place where you can Count it all joy. A heart-rending page-turner with real-time follow up through Kimberleys speaking engagements, website and blog at www.kimberleywoodhouse.com. Kimberley also offers encouragement on Facebook and Twitter.

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Review 17 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:July 27, 2009

Melanie Dickerson

Top 1000 Contributor

If you are an avid viewer of the TV show Extreme Makeover Home Edition, as my children are--they can't stand to miss this show!--then you probably saw the episode about the Woodhouse family. I rarely read an entire nonfiction book all the way through, but I read this one in one day! I couldnt put it down. And it made me cry, which also never happens. I cried several times while reading this book. It really touched me and convicted me of so many sinful attitudes I have, like failing to count it all joy when I face trials. Oh boy, do I ever fail at this! This is such an incredible story, and I truly believe I grew as a person while reading this book. How could I ever take my childrens health for granted again? Or my home? Or anything else? The Woodhouse family has dealt with some serious medical issues, not only with their daughter, Kayla, who has a very rare disorder that causes her to overheat if the temperature is above 64 degrees, but also with their son, who almost died several times due to an undiagnosed problem with his trachea. But the best part of this story is reading the very real and honest account of Kimberleys spiritual journey and the way she overcame so many difficulties and learned to hold on to Gods joy no matter what was going on. She just kept repeating that verse, James 1:2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.I highly recommend this story to anyone who is facing trials and is struggling. If you feel you need more joy, then this is the book for you.

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Review 18 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:July 14, 2009

Carrie Kintz

Welcome Home reads like a well crafted novel, except for it's real life! The Woodhouse family story took me through the gamut of emotion: joy, happiness, tears, grief and peace. Their story is powerful and an excellent reminder that no matter what the circumstances, Jesus is with us, His faithfulness is neverending and His mercies are new every morning.

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Review 19 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:July 6, 2009

Evangeline Denmark

If youve ever had a glimpse into an inspiring life and thought, That could never be me, then this book is for you. Kimberley Woodhouse takes readers on a transparent journey, refusing to hide challenges and imperfections behind the many triumphs of her familys enduring faith. The result is a fascinating read and a substantial helping of encouragement for those of us who would choose joy even in lifes trials.

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Review 20 for Welcome Home! Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy

Overall Rating:

5 out of 5

Date:April 29, 2009

Colleen Coble

Woodhouse's frank and warm narrative about her family's rocky journey to extreme joy is a book to be reread and treasured, but make sure you have a tissue handy. I loved this book, and it was such an encouragement to me when I was dealing with my beloved father-in-law's advancing Alzheimer's. A book for the keeper shelf!

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