{Review & Giveaway} CSB Day by Day Chronological Bible

**The giveaway is now closed. The winner is Zena Griffeth! Congrats!**

I love a good story. Just ask anyone that knows me. I have shelves of books in my home. I typically have at least two books going at a time (if not more). I just love reading.

The greatest story every told is the Bible. Have you ever read it cover to cover? I have a few times and I'm currently in the process again. I'm using a Bible app to keep me on track but I'm doing the actual reading in my NIV Study Bible that I've had for years. I'm about halfway through the Old Testament and I learn something new every time I read. I love that about the Bible.

I was approached about checking out a new chronological Bible. During one of my read throughs, I used one such style Bible. What's amazing about this method is it really helps one to see the overall timeline of the biblical story. I loved that I could see where the major and minor prophets fit into the biblical narrative. I really enjoyed reading it that way - like a true story line.

The CSB Day by Day Chronological Bible does that and more.

First let's go over the set up of the Bible itself. There are 52 weekly readings in the Bible. It's set up for one to read six days a week with the seventh day for reflection of the week's readings. There are large areas for you to jot notes on day seven. The text is also set up as in a single column so there are wide margins throughout allowing for ample room to jot down thoughts as one reads. The readings, as implied by the title, are in chronological order. This is not a Bible one would want to use to look up chapter and verse quickly and easily. It's not set up like that at all although it does have a nice index in the back so one can easily find a chapter/verse if desired.

The readings are broken into three main acts: God's Plan for All People, God's Covenant People; and God's New Covenant People. Each act begins with an introduction that talks about the setting and the people involved. Then each act is broken down further into scenes (think of how plays are written), and within the scenes, the readings. For example, the smallest Act is Act 1 which only has three scenes. Each scene has one to three readings. The largest scene is Scene 2 which covers the majority of the readings with nine scenes total. The last Act has five scenes.

Each day's reading starts with a introduction, questions to think about while reading, and lists out the reading for the day.

Now for the translation. I know there are folks out there who are very adamant about which Bible translation they read and why it's the correct one. I don't fall into that category. I grew up on the King James Bible but for the most part I have always read the New International Version. More recently I use the New America Standard Bible (NASB). And I even {gasp} read the Message version from time to time. One of my absolute favorite things to do is read the same verse in different translations as it helps me to see what it means.

If you'd like more information about the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) translation, then you can check it out on the publisher's website by clicking HERE.

I know that the next time I do a read through of the entire Bible (it will start when I've completed this current one), I will be using the CSB Day by Day Chronological Bible. I love the way it is set up and the entire feel of it.

Did you make a resolution this year to do a Bible read through? If you'd like to win your own copy of the Bible, please leave me a comment. This is a short time frame on the giveaway. You have until midnight tonight eastern standard time to leave your comment. The winner will be announced tomorrow on January 26, 2019.




Disclaimer: Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255:  “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):  Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

{Review} Is Genesis History? (DVD) plus Giveaway!

Oftentimes people dismiss the Bible as an old-fashioned book which no longer applies to our lives today. After all, it was written thousands of years ago. How can it be accurate let alone pertain to anything we have going on today?

Is Genesis History? is a documentary that looks at the first book of the Bible through a scientific lens before a biblical lens. Can what is shared in Genesis be shown to be true through a scientific view of the world? Does what we see in the world today show up in the Bible? 

Over a dozen scholars and scientists were involved in this film to help explain how science and Genesis interact. Host Dr. Del Tackett takes us all across the globe as he looks at this very issue. 

We learn about how rock layers are formed and what they tell us about the formation of our earth and how this impacts our knowledge of fossils and age dating. This is a documentary that packs that plus whole a lot more information into the 118 minute run time. 

If you go to the website Is Genesis History?, you will also find oodles of more information from a six video Bible study to five things to do once you have viewed the film which includes a summary of the film with key takeaways. There are also links to learn not only more about the film and the experts but also the fossils and more. 

There was a one night run of this film at 700 theaters nationwide back in February. It did so well that there were two encore performances in March. You can see links to where you can purchase your own copy of the video by clicking HERE to see a list of retailers or you can enter my giveaway to win your own copy of the DVD. 

My husband watches a lot of videos that discuss creation. While he isn't an expert, he knows quite a bit about it based on his research. I knew he would enjoy this film. While I had already viewed it, we watched it again together. His take was that he knew quite a bit of what was already shared. However, there were some aspects of it that, in his words, "blew his mind." The experts that speak really are at the top of their field. They not only have the head knowledge, but they all have a great way of explaining what they know in such a way that makes it understandable. 

Giveaway: Leave a comment either here on my blog or on any of the Facebook links and tell me one thing you enjoy about nature. I will pick a random winner on April 24, 2017. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

{Review & Giveaway} Galaxy Buck Mission to Sector 9

Phil Vischer, the creator of VeggieTales® and the What's in the Bible? series has a new DVD coming out tomorrow, October 20th. Galaxy Buck Mission to Sector 9 follows Buck Denver as he tries to do "big things for God." Buck thinks he can only follow God by doing big things. He doesn't realize that the small things can be big things if you do it all for God. 

Buck works in the call center for the Galactic Missions Board. He has a dream of being a captain of a space ship and running missions instead of answering phone calls. An opportunity comes up for him to fulfill his dream. He puts a makeshift crew together and heads out to the galaxy. They are headed to a supposedly uninhabited planet and Buck had all of his training through an online course and an app. So what could go wrong?

As in all videos by Phil Vischer, there is a greater truth to be learned. Galaxy Buck is no exception. Buck has to realize that his dream of doing "big things for God" may not be what God wants from him after all.

"When we let go of our goals, our desires, our dreams 

and just focus on God, walking with Jesus, 

the current of His heart carries us along. 

My life is no longer mine to worry about. 

God has my life suspended in the current of His love."  

There are also lots of great references to Star Wars and Star Trek for all of the parents to enjoy as they watch the video with their children. I certainly enjoyed it myself. 

Would you like to win a copy of Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9? I have one DVD to give away. Please leave a comment either here on my blog or on Facebook. I will pick a winner on October 25, 2015. 

Connect to Galaxy Buck on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or Instagram.  

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

{Review & Giveaway} Navy Seal Noel by Liz Johnson

I've been reading Liz Johnson's Men of Valor series for awhile. I've been blessed to have the opportunity to review all three books in the series so far. Navy Seal Noel is the third book. Each story stands alone but includes minor characters from previous stories.

The newest book follows the story of SEAL Will Gumble and Jessalyn McCoy.
From the back cover:

Abducted by a drug cartel, scientist Jessalyn McCoy's orders are simple - produce a deadly toxin, or be killed. Trapped with no options, she's desperate for help...she just never expected it from Will Gumble. The boy who let her down years ago is now a navy SEAL. She trusts his skills, his experience. Yet trusting him is a struggle. Will's Christmas wish is to heal their damaged relationship and get t hem to safety. But time is running out and the stakes keep rising. Any mistake could mean the difference between facing the holidays together or apart forever.

Liz does a great job with her books. I knew when I started, I needed to make sure my schedule was left pretty open. I find these books a quick but addicting read. Once I start, I don't want to stop until I'm done! Thankfully they aren't all that long, a couple hundred pages, but my boys were a bit neglected for a day or two. And I was correct. Once again this was a great read. I was drawn immediately into the story. It was a great escape for a few days and very enjoyable. Thanks, Liz, for another great read!

About the author:
By day Liz Johnson is a marketing manager for a Christian publisher. She finds time to write late at night and is a two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist. Liz makes her home in Nashville, TN, where she enjoys theater, exploring local music, and making frequent trips to Arizona to dote on her nieces and nephews. She loves stories of true love with happy endings and shares about her adventures in writing at LizJohnsonBooks.com, Facebook.com/LizJohnsonBooks and Twitter.com/LizJohnsonBooks.

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Would you like to have your own signed copy of Navy Seal Noel? Leave a comment below and let me know what your favorite Christmas carol is. I'll pick a winner on December 31, 2014.

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

{Book Review & Giveaway} Persecuted by Robin Parrish

About The Book: The Question Is Not IF Attempts Will Be Made to Limit Religious Freedoms, But When

The most popular evangelist of his day, John Luther, simply wants to share the Gospel and enjoy a quiet life with his family. He never asked to be at the center of a political controversy, but an ill wind has been blowing through the halls of Congress, and supporters of a new religious-equality bill see Luther's endorsement as critical. But when Luther refuses to lend his support, he unknowingly sets in motion an explosive plan bent on destroying his reputation and undermining everything for which he stands. His once-normal life is turned upside down as he becomes a fugitive left with only one dangerous option--putting everything he holds most dear at risk while he fights to expose the truth. It is a mission that brings him face-to-face with the coming storm of persecution that could threaten the very fabric of our nation's freedoms.

About The Author: Robin Parrish is a journalist who's written about the intersection of faith and pop culture for more than a decade. He's also the author of Offworld and The Dominion Trilogy . Robin and his wife and children live in North Carolina. Visit Robin's website...www.robinparrish.com/

My thoughts:
I get easily annoyed by politics so I try to stay out of that type of discussion as much as possible. I'm pretty conservative though and grow more so each and every day. I really don't think it talks a poly-sci major to see the way things are moving in our country. Frankly, I find it a bit unnerving at times. 

This is one reason I was intrigued by this book's concept. It poses an interesting scenerio. The government is trying to push through a bill called the Faith and Fairness Act. A bill that would make all religions equal. None would be above the other. It would all be fair. It's a nice concept on the surface, but there is a darker side to all of this and the protoganist, John Luther, finds it all out first hand when his seemingly wonderful life is turned upside down. 

I started this book on a Thursday morning and had it finished by Saturday morning. I would have had it finished sooner, but there was a holiday in between. It was a page turner that had me guessing all the way to the end. It was impossible to predict the ending.

This book was written based on a movie by the same name that is coming out on July 18th. I'll be hoping it comes to a theater near me. I'd love to watch it.

If you like thrillers and, in particular political thrillers, then I think you'd enjoy this book. You can view a sample on the author's website. 

Would you like to win your own copy? Please leave a message below (if you are reading this on Facebook, you can leave a message there), telling me the title of a recent book you really enjoyed. I'll pick a random winner on August 25th. Please be sure to read the fine print below regarding the contest. 

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

{ABC Blogging} I is for Inspiring

In an effort to be more consistent in my blogging, I decided to jump midstream into Marcy at Ben and Me's weekly Blogging Through the Alphabet link up. This week they are blogging about Letter I.

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Anyone following me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, or Pinterest has probably seen all the posts I've been putting up about the Experiencing History Through Music books and CD's by Diana Waring. As part of the launch team, Diana has been sharing some of the wonderful back story to how this curriculum came about.

From Diana herself:
Sometime in the mid 1990s, the partnership that had produced "America," "Westward Ho!" and "Musical Memories of Laura Ingalls Wilder," decided that it was time to let a "real" publisher take over. So, we signed contracts with a company that was quite large in the homeschooling movement at the time. We were excited to have others taking over the day-to-day details, as I had moved from the Portland area to South Dakota, and this was going to make things so much easier for us all.

However, when this business went bankrupt in the late 1990s, something happened that was past my comprehension. I still don't know why, but when they declared bankruptcy they simply threw everything in the dumpster—including our masters. When I heard this, it utterly devastated me. These wonderful projects were gone, and to reproduce this again seemed too hard without the audio masters. Between having to start over from scratch with all of the images and graphic design and having no audio masters, I thought the entire project was gone forever.

People would ask us about them from time to time, as they had read about them, or heard of them, or had owned the original cassette tapes, but we always told them sadly, "I don't think they will ever come back into print."

Then, several years ago, Gena Suarez of The Old Schoolhouse contacted me to see if we might have any remaining stock of this product. She had heard of a family who had gone through a fire and lost everything, and her company was trying to help them rebuild their lives. I guess that the mom specifically talked about these American folk music in history books/audios, and this prompted Gena's call to me.

I contacted the former partner who owned the recording studio to see if he, perchance, had somehow saved the audio files to digital. At the time, Tad was quite busy with other things, but he told me that he thought he might have saved a FEW songs. Since it didn't sound promising, I thought it was probably a dead end. And I was sad all over again. It seemed like such a waste of a really fun product, that families had thoroughly enjoyed for years!

And, of course, these were the first books I had ever written. . .

Why I tried again two years ago is a mystery to me. I just took the notion to contact Tad once more and ask if he had discovered whether or not he had saved any of the songs. This time, as we talked, Tad realized that there were possibly some ways he could "pull out" the recordings from the antiquated DAT machines. However, he was in the midst of some medical issues, and was not sure how much time he would have to devote to the project.

It took two years. And then, suddenly, I had an email in my inbox. The songs had ALL been digitally restored, remastered for CD, and were ready to go!! I could hardly believe my eyes. After fifteen years, these products were going to have a new life.

I can hardly describe what this means to me, personally. But, maybe I can share with you what happened a few months ago to illustrate. Our business phone rang one day, and a woman began excitedly talking to my husband. As he heard what she was saying, he suggested that I would like to hear her story directly. When I took the phone, this is what she said:

"Diana, I met you fourteen years ago at a convention. When I told you that our family absolutely LOVED 'Musical Memories of Laura Ingalls Wilder,' you told me what had happened when the publisher threw your masters away. You asked me to pray that somehow it would all be restored. . . And, I have been praying!! Each time I walked by the cassette tape, I was reminded to pray. . . for FOURTEEN years!!"

She went on to say that she had just read on social media that the products were coming back into print, and she was so excited to see that her prayers were finally being answered. Together, we shared a few tears and a few amazed words of joy at what was taking place before our very eyes.

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I'm very happy to be part of the team that is helping to launch these remastered, updated editions of that product that was thought to be lost. I'm one of the moms who has seen the cassette tapes kicking around at used book sales, but didn't buy them because they were on cassette tapes.

Now having listened to many of the songs and read the stories that go with them, I'm so thankful that a new generation of children (and parents!) will once again enjoy Experiencing History Through Music.

A full review of the curriculum will be coming next week. And don't forget to enter the huge giveaway that is currently going on!

Diana and Friends Experience History Through Music Giveaway --- $700+ Value!

A few years ago I was blessed to participate in writing reviews of various homeschool curriculum. I really enjoyed getting a sneak peak. I was recently blessed to be able to jump on to a new review group.

The reason I jumped? We are launching a new product for none other than Diana Waring. I first heard about Diana and her world history curriculum a few years in to our homeschooling journey. I love her enthusiasm and the way that she presents her materials. Needless to say, when I heard that I had the chance to preview her newest offerings, I leaped at the chance.

Some of you may remember Diana's musical history ::cough:: cassettes that were around, well, when cassettes were the only option one had for playing music. She has since updated that particular product, now on compact discs, and added in some very cool books to go along with them.

A full review of those items will be coming up at the end of the month. Experiencing History Through Music by Diana Waring will be launching the week of June 30th, so be watching for a full review of it. Hint: It's awesome!!

 

To celebrate the release of Experience History Through Music, I am joining members of the Diana Waring Launch Team for an amazing giveaway. Friends of Diana have joined in and as you can see, someone's homeschool is going to be greatly blessed!  Here's what you could win! 

From Diana Waring Presents

Experience History Through Music - set of 3 books with CDs ($50/set) Diana Waring Presents is about to bring back into print the BEST folk music you have ever heard, combined with the fascinating stories they represent in American history!   The Experience Music Through Historyseries includes: America - Heart of a New Nation, Westward Ho! - Heart of the Old West  and Musical Memories of Laura Ingalls Wilder. The musicians are amazing, every instrument is real, lots of great vocalists, and more toe-tapping music than you can imagine! The books tell the stories behind the songs.  Together, they bring American history to life through it's music!!With fascinating history books and toe-tapping folk music CDs, American history has NEVER been this fun!

 

Encouragement for Homeschool Moms Collection ($25) Every mom needs that word of encouragement from someone who has been there, who has grownup children and can speak with assurance about the journey. Homeschool moms have an extra portion of the journey to navigate, and often wish for an extra voice that will offer direction but without nagging or prodding. Diana Waring has that voice.  

From A Journey Through Learning

$50 Gift Certificate $50 to spend in the A Journey Through Learning store, applicable toward any digital download purchase.  

From Homeschool Legacy

Westward Ho! Part I ($19.95) Load up your wagon! Discover the extraordinary times of adventurous frontiersmen and brave pioneers as you travel cross-country along the Erie Canal,  Oregon Trail, and even “remember the Alamo” in Westward Ho Part I. Westward Ho! Part II ($19.95) Continue the exciting saga begun in Westward Ho! Part I as you journey with the forty-niners, ride the rails of the Transcontinental Railroad, experience life on the prairie, and discover the exciting era of cowboys and cattle drives in Westward Ho! Part II.  

From Knowledge Quest Maps

Map Trek: Atlas and Outline Maps of World History ($55) Map Trek is a historical atlas plus outline maps that allow you to teach geography alongside history. This is a resource that any homeschool parent can use with brilliant success, even if you don't remember a thing from your history or geography classes in public school.  

From Home School Adventure Co. 

Philosophy Adventure™ Digital Download ($39.95) Philosophy Adventure™ is designed to help students 6th-12th grade cultivate and defend a biblical worldview by teaching them how to write skillfully, think critically, and speak articulately as they explore the history of ideas.  

From Heidi St. John (The Busy Mom and Real Life Press)

Firmly Planted Family Devotional Digital Volume 3 ($39) The Firmly Planted Family Series is divided into ten-week studies and is your key to making sense of the Bible—even if you’re learning right along with your children. Each lesson provides a core idea, a simple narrative, memory verses and discussion questions for children of all ages. And the companion student workbook is filled with age-appropriate, full-color, reproducible activities for children of any age!  

From Raising Real Men

Free Registration to Boyhood Boot Camp or Boot Camp 9-12 LIVE webinar series (winner's choice) plus Mom & Dad Special Raising Real Men (Book for Mom to read in the bathroom + AudioBook for Dad to listen to on the commute) ($62-69)

 

Free Registration for Marriage Retreat Online plus His & Hers Special of My Beloved and My Friend: How To Be Married To Your Best Friend Without Changing Spouses (book + audiobook), ($65)  

From Institute for Excellence in Writing

$50 Gift Certificate $50 to spend in the IEW store, applicable toward any purchase.  

From The Old Schoolhouse Magazine

SchoolhouseTeachers.com ($139) A one year membership to the curriculum arm of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine. Nearly 100 classes for Pre-K to High School, taught by expert teachers, and lots of extras including the Schoolhouse Planners, Schoolhouse Expos, monthly free ebook downloads and more.

 

The Old Schoolhouse Magazine 2014 Print Book ($15) Be encouraged, enlightened, and educated with the all new 2014 Annual Print Book published by The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine.You’ll get a year’s worth of homeschool support in almost 300 pages in this full color one-of-a-kind print magazine for homeschoolers, by homeschoolers. This is a magazine you’ll refer to again and again.  

From Writing with Sharon Watson

The Power in Your Hands ($53.96) With The Power in Your Hands: Writing Nonfiction in High School, they’ll learn what they need to know for high school and will be prepared for college writing.

 

Writing Fiction [in High School] ($35) Are you raising the next C. S. Lewis or Jane Austen? Help your student develop their fiction-writing talents. Writing Fiction [In High School]: Bringing Your Stories to Life will help your students develop their fiction-writing talents with Writing Fiction [In High School]: Bringing Your Stories to Life.

 To enter the giveaway, use the Rafflecopter below. Residents of the U.S., age 18 and older only. Other Terms and Conditions can be found in the Rafflecopter. a Rafflecopter giveaway

{Review & Giveaway} VeggieTales: The Little House That Stood

I have been watching VeggieTales videos with my boys since they first began long ago with Where is God When I'm Scared? Junior Asparagus, Bob, and Larry are all part of our lives it seems. The tales they help tell - at a kid level - have not only stuck with my boys but also with my hubby and I. Please, never ever say "Barbara Manatee" in front of my hubby. He will burst in to song along with my three boys!

I have thoroughly enjoy every VeggieTales video I have watched. Although, I must admit that sometimes I can't get the VeggieTales version of the Bible story they tell out of my head while reading it in the Bible! However, I don't think that's all together a bad thing.

Releasing tomorrow is their newest offering - The Little House That Stood. In classic VeggieTales style they help tell the story of the Three Little Pigs with a great biblical foundation.

From the website:

About The Little House That Stood

When the Three Little Pigs roll into Cabbageville looking to build some new houses, they meet one builder with a plan and two without a clue! Larry builds with hay, Mr. Lunt with bricks, but only Bob builds his houses on a firm foundation - following the wise plans from the Master Builder's Handbook! Will the Little Piggies make the right choices when it comes to building their houses - and their lives - on solid ground? Find out in this parable that shows kids when they follow God's blueprints, then can stand strong when the storms come! 

As always, the video is well done, enjoyable, and humorous. All three of my boys really enjoyed it - as did I! I'm glad we can add this to our collection.

Did you know that on the VeggieTales website you can download coloring pages for each video? There is also a study guide available for the movie as well.

Would you like to win a copy for yourself? Please leave me a comment telling me if you have ever seen VeggieTales and if so, what is your favorite episode? I will pick a winner on Friday, March 22nd.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

{Review & Giveaway} The Utter Relief of Holiness by John Eldredge

I received this book last month and I was suppose to have a review written on it by the end of January. Somehow I kept putting it off. I'm really not sure why. It's not a large book. I wanted to read it which is why I offered to do the review and giveaway. I've heard of John Eldredge and have some other books by him as well.

And then I started reading it. That's when I realized, deep down, why I had kept putting it off. This book, for me at least, contains a life-changing message. It's not one you can read and say, "Yeah, I agree with that" and then go on and live your life the same way. For me, it's one that is making me really exam my life and my choices and see where changes need to be made and that's scary and hard.

The Utter Relief of Holiness: How God's Goodness Frees Us From Everything That Plagues Us by John Eldredge is so popular at the moment that you can't even buy a copy from the link I just sent you to. What does Eldredge even mean by "The Utter Relief of Holiness?" I can't put it in to words as well as he does....

"It may seem strange at first because I don't believe most folks think of holiness as an utter relief. Hard perhaps, boring if we're honest, necessary like flossing, a level of spirituality we might attain to one day. But a relief? Look at it this way: Ask the anorexic young girl how she would feel if she simply no longer struggled with food, diet, exercise - if she simply never even gave it another thought. Ask the man consumed with jealousy how he would feel if he woke one day to discover that all he once felt jealous over was simply gone. Ask the raging person what it would be like to be free of rage or the alcoholic what it would be like to be completely free from addiction. Take the things you struggle with and ask yourself, 'What would life be like if I never struggled with this again?'"

If you are anything like me, we all have struggles in life. They can seem minor but somehow seem to consume so much of us. As a child I was very shy - sometimes painfully so. Social situations were so very hard for me. Any new situation could send me into a tailspin.

I can still vividly remember my first day of middle school. I was 10 years-old and all the area elementary schools would be coming together at the local middle school for grade five through eight. I knew about a fourth of the students I would be attending school with. However, it was a brand new school with new teachers, new students, new subjects, new everything and I was a mess. After the first day, I was fine, but that first day was so very hard both physically and emotionally.

Over the years I have come to realize that the shyness was just complete self-absorption on my part - too much time thinking about myself. I have worked hard to overcome my natural tendencies.

Eldredge actually addresses a lot of these types of things in his book. You may think it's part of your personality, but is it really? Or is it a way to control the situation. If it's control you want, then where does God fit in to that picture?

Needless to say, this book is making me examine my life and my choices quite closely in view of God's holiness and what He desires for my life - not where my comfort lies.

About the Author: John Eldredge has written 12 books, including Beautiful Outlaw and New York Times bestsellers Wild at Heart and Captivating (written with his wife Stasi). His books have sold more than 8 million copies. He is the Director of Ransomed Heart, a ministry devoted to helping people discover the heart of God. It has become a grassroots phenomenon with millions of followers.

{Giveaway}

I will be giving away one copy of this book to a reader. Simply leave me a comment letting me the name of the last book you read that made you think. I will pick a winner on February 28, 2013.



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

{Review & Giveaway} Abel's Field

Sometimes there are movies that impact you. They make you stop and think and make you better because of it. This happens rarely these days, I know, but I just watched Abel's Field and I have to say, it's one of those movies.

The story follows a 17-year-old high school senior named Seth. His mother has died and his father has abandoned the family. As sad as that is, Seth also has taken on the care of his twin seven-year-old sisters. He works two jobs as well as goes to high school full-time. He feels that God has abandoned him and that he has to do it all on his own. On top of all of this, he continues to have run-ins with the football team where he comes out on the bottom.

It's after one such incident with the team that he is assigned to work with Abel, the school's handyman. Abel has a hard life of his own, but he's quiet about his past and they are two lonely people trying to just make it through each day.

I thought the actors did an incredible job of portraying the characters. The story-line drew me in. I was hurting for Seth and the huge burden he had throughout the movie. It is the type of movie that makes you want to help, to change something, to not be complacent. It makes you really think about how you treat others. It's a movie that helps you become a better person.

I also found the behind the scenes extra just as interesting. The entire movie was filmed in a small town in Texas. The actors were also interviewed and gave some great insight in to the characters and the movie.

I would recommend Abel's Field wholeheartedly. I plan to sit and watch it with my boys, ages 9-16, this weekend.

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If you'd like to win a copy for yourself, please just leave a comment below telling me the name of one of your favorite dramas. For an extra chance, go to the Abel's Field Facebook page and "like" it. I will draw a winner on February 1, 2013.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

{Review & Giveaway} A Promise to Protect by Liz Johnson

I received a Kindle for Christmas last year and my reading actual paper books took a huge hit. I've been making more of an effort lately to simply unplug and read real books. This is one reason I was happy to read Liz Johnson's newest book, A Promise to Protect. 

Summary: 
Navy SEAL Matt Waterstone knows about keeping people safe. When his best friend’s sister is attacked, Matt promises no harm will come to Ashley Sawyer–not on his watch. But Matt’s not the only protective one. Ashley will do anything to safeguard the residents of the battered women’s shelter she runs. She’s sure she can handle the threats she gets in return. What she can’t handle is the way Matt scales the walls around her heart. Yet when she falls prey to a crime web more sinister than she’d realized, trusting Matt could be the only way to survive.

My Thoughts: I ate this book up. It took me only a couple days to get through and I had a hard time putting it down and doing other things. I love a good suspense/who-dun-it type book. I've read some of Liz Johnson's books before and she doesn't disappoint. The story line was fast paced, the characters likeable, and the plot twisted just enough to keep me guessing. I highly recommend the book.

About the Author:

Liz Johnson graduated from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff with a degree in public relations and set out to work in Christian publishing. In 2006 she got her wish when she accepted a publicity position at a major trade book publisher. While working in the industry, she decided to pursue her other dream—becoming an author. She is now a two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, and A Promise to Protect is her fourth novel with Love Inspired Suspense. Liz makes her home in Nashville, TN, where she enjoys theater, exploring the local music scene, and making frequent trips to Arizona to dote on her two nephews and three nieces. She loves stories of true love with happy endings. Keep up with Liz's adventures in writing at www.lizjohnsonbooks.com, or follow her on twitter @LizJohnsonBooks or Facebook.

Author Interview:
What’s your new book, A Promise to Protect, about?

Ashley Sawyer has been the director of a battered women’s shelter for three years, so she’s no stranger to dealing with threats. But when she helps a young woman disappear, the threats become more intense than she’s ever experienced. Navy SEAL Matt Waterstone is happy to check on his best friend’s little sister, certain he can take care of the situation. But as Matt and Ashley search for the source of the threats, they uncover a plot more sinister than they ever imagined . . . and a love they never expected.

How did you get interested in writing about Navy SEALs?

When I was in college, I picked up a novel about a SEAL, and I was hooked. Who were these men unafraid of facing down the worst in this world? Who would go through such torturous training to be called the elite? I began watching documentaries on Special Forces units and reading everything I could about the men on the teams. Lately I’ve been reading biographies of SEALs including Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell and Fearless by Eric Blehm, fascinated by the type of personality it takes to become a SEAL.

It’s been said that good writers are good readers. What do you enjoy reading?

I’ll read just about anything that I can! And I read as often as I’m able. That translates into—whenever I’m not on deadline. My favorite books cross genres and years. As a kid, I read The Witch of Blackbird Pond, and I loved it! Still do. As an adult, I’ve really The Princess Brideand The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Mostly I just enjoy a rich story with a happily ever after.

What have you enjoyed reading recently?

I’ve written three books this year—met three deadlines—so I haven’t had as much time to read as I’d like. But I did catch new books by some of my favorite historical authors—Julie Klassen and Karen Witemeyer. On a recent road trip I finally listened to the audio version of Susan Meissner’s The Shape of Mercy. It was wonderful!

Liz, what’s up next for you?

Right now I’m working on the follow up to A Promise to Protect, which is due out next year. It’s about Ashley’s brother and Matt’s best friend, Tristan. Then I’m scheduled to write a third book in my SEAL series. I’ve loved writing about the men of SEAL Team FIFTEEN and the women they fall in love with, so I’ll be sad when the series wraps up. I’m also working on a contemporary romance and bouncing at least a hundred and three other ideas around my mind.

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I have a copy of the book to giveaway. It would make a great Christmas gift/stocking stuffer! Did I mention that it's even signed by the author? Since this is a busy time of year, I'm going to make this super simple....

First entry: Leave me a comment telling me the title of the best book you've read lately.

Second entry: Go "like" Liz Johnson on Facebook (leave me a comment so I can give you credit).

I will pick a winner on Friday, December 7th. 

{Review & Giveaway} The Sparkle Box by Jill Hardie

THE SPARKLE BOX - Official Book Trailer from Ideals Books on Vimeo.

'Tis the season of commercialism. Stores are already playing Christmas music. Ads are appearing everywhere telling your children what the "hot" toys are for this year. Big box stores even have their toy catalogs out front and center tempting your children to begin the "I wants" earlier and earlier every year.

Now don't get me wrong. I love Christmas. I've been playing Christmas music in my home for well over a month now. I just mailed invitations for a Christmas Open House today (it's actually December 1st). This is my favorite holiday season of the year.

But sometimes the reason behind the season gets lost in all the "I wants."

Jill Hardie, the author of The Sparkle Box, wanted to change that for her family. Her family used this as a way to bring more meaning to the holiday by putting "gifts to Jesus" in the box and opening it on Christmas Day.

Jill Hardie - THE SPARKLE BOX from Ideals Books on Vimeo.

In the book, we follow the story of a young boy named, Sam, as he and his family prepare for Christmas. He sees the box but doesn't quite understand what is going on until they open it for the first time on Christmas morning. It helps them focus more on why we celebrate the season.

The book is very well written. It's told in a simple manner so any child can follow along and understand the concept being taught. I love that it came with its very own sparkle box - the photo above shows it put together.  It comes flat in a pocket in the back of the book and easily assembles.

We will be adding this to our Christmas this year. I am always trying to find ways to help my boys see beyond the next fun toy and to truly see why we celebrate Christmas. However, I also hope to make that last all year long and not just see it as something to do in December. There are needy families every day of the year.

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Would you like to win your own copy of The Sparkle Box? You have two chances to win. Leave me a comment and let me know what you do at Christmas to help make it less commercial. Go to Facebook and "like" the Ideals Books Faceobook page for your second chance to win. Be sure to tell me you did this in your comment below so I can be sure to give you a second entry. I will choose a winner on Monday, November 19th.




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. 

{Review & Giveaway} Hear Me by Kyle Sherman

I love listening to music - always have. It's a love I've passed on to my kiddos. In fact, it's rare for us not have some music going while driving in the car or in the afternoons while we are having some downtime. I love that my kids like the same music even! In fact, my teenager has been known to tell me to turn up the radio while in the car if a song comes on he likes and I'm typically happy to oblige since I like the songs too!

I was given the chance to check out a new offering from Kyle Sherman - a worship leader at LifeChurch.TV's Fort Worth campus. Recently signed to a brand new record label - RaeLynn Records - his first album releases this coming Tuesday, October 9th. I must say, I am completely enjoying it!

Now I am not a music critic in any sense of the word. I'm simply a stay-at-home-homeschooling Mom who knows what she likes when in terms of music. I grew up listening to mostly southern gospel. Then in late middle school/high school I was introduced to mainstream rock n' roll. Yes, I lived a somewhat sheltered life, but that was fine by me. I listened to "Top 40" stuff all the way until high school when I began listening to country. It wasn't until I was married that I began listening only to Contemporary Christian music. My music is as eclectic as everything else in my life.

This new album Hear Me fits in nicely with all of that. It's a worship album filled with "southern soul." I just know it's good and I have been listening to it almost non-stop. My favorite song is the title track. I also really love the song He Prayed For Me. However, the one in the video below is also great....enjoy!

Would you like to win a physical copy of the album? Just share with me one or two (or more!) of your favorite musical artists. I will pick a winner on October 19th. 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. 

{Review} One Silent Night by FFH (and giveaway)

I have been a fan of FFH for a very long time. They were one of the first contemporary Christian bands that my hubby and I both listened to. They were one of the first concerts we went to see and the first autographs we stood in line to get. Needless to say, when the chance came up for me to review their new Christmas album I not only leaped at the chance, I jumped!

Shortly after I received the link to download my digital album, I burned a CD to play in my truck. It's been there ever since. I've been playing it over and over and over and....well, you get the picture I'm sure. 

The members of FFH cover a few standard Christmas songs such as Jingle Bell Rock - one of my kids favorites. They also have some original songs as well. My favorite is one of their originals. It's track three and the title track of the album - One Silent Night. I typically listen to it at least once every time I get in the truck. I've even been known to hit the repeat button and listen to it over and over and over, yes, well....you get the picture. 

This is now one of my favorite Christmas albums. 

You can purchase a copy of the album at iTunes for $9.90. Would you like to win a digital copy of their album instead? Leave me a comment telling me what your favorite Christmas song is. I'll pick a winner on December 1, 2011.

***Deadline extended until Saturday, December 3rd!***


Congrats to the winner, Christa!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the above product mentioned for free fromPropeller Marketing in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." 

{Review} The Grace Effect by Larry Taunton (and giveaway)

What is The Grace Effect? "Simply defined, the 'grace effect' is an observable phenomenon - that life is demonstrably better where authentic Christianity flourishes."

Author Larry Taunton is the executive director of Fixed Point Foundation which is dedicated to defending the Christian faith. The mission of the foundation is to help Christians become strong in their faith while addressing the skeptics. Mr. Taunton realized that his personal life was about to see the effects of what would happen if there were no Christian basis to life.

Mr. Taunton, his wife, and his two youngest sons traveled to Ukraine to adopt a ten-year-old girl who had spent her years in an orphanage in a country that had no Christian basis. She was considered unworthy and was raised in horrid living conditions. It gives us a glimpse into what life would be like if atheists abounded and the love of Christ was not lived out day to day.

I originally agreed to review the book as it centers around the adoption of Sasha. I'm praying that one day we will be able to adopt a child or more. I'm not typically a fan of non-fiction books as I find them hard to get through. That was not the case with this book. I loved it.

I found it quite easy to read. The redeeming story of Sasha resonated with me. Larry Taunton is an excellent writer. He did a fantastic job conveying the culture of Ukraine and all he and his family had to go through in order to bring Sasha home.

I simply can't recommend this book more. In fact, I have already lent the book out. You can purchase it through Amazon. However, if you'd like to try and win a copy, leave me a comment letting me know a book you are currently reading. I'll pick a winner on November 29, 2011.


***Deadline extended until Saturday, December 3rd!***


The winner is Debbie!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the above product mentioned for free fromPropeller Marketing in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." 

{Review} Revolution Worship LIVE (and giveaway)

Recently, I was given the opportunity to listen to Revolution Worship's new CD - a live recording of their music. It's no secret that I enjoy music. I've really enjoyed finding new bands in large part to the reviews I do for Propeller Marketing. 

Here's a 90 second preview of the new album..........

The album is actually the debut for Revolution Worship. The group is led by a husband and wife duo, Paul & Lisa Wright, as well as Mark Mathias and Phil King. All members have a background in music and bring those collective talents to the album. They created a collaboration with the worship team at Joy Church International to bring this album to fruition.

I really enjoyed the album. As mentioned in the above video, it is a mix of gospel and contemporary Christian music. It's definitely a unique sound, but it's one I found enjoyable. I really love that it is a live album. This is a great album to listen to during your personal quiet time or when you really want to connect with the Lord through song. 

You can learn more about this new album through Revolution Worship's website or Facebook page or Twitter. You can purchase a copy of the album via iTunes. 

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Would you like to win a copy of this CD? Simply leave me a comment and tell me what your favorite genre of music is that you like to listen to. I'll pick a winner on Monday, November 28th.


***Deadline extended until Saturday, December 3rd!***


The winner is Becky K!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the above product mentioned for free fromPropeller Marketing in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."