FREE eBOOK: "25 Days of Christmas" by Arlene Pellicane of The Happy Home Podcast

Twenty-five days, starting on December 1st and ending on Christmas day - here's a FREE eBook download for busy moms (or anyone, really) who are interested in some practical activities to do with their families this Christmas season. 

The "25 Days of Christmas" devotional and activity eBook includes 10 devotionals (5 for Mom, and 5 for the kids), 10 fun family activities, and 5 easy ways to serve. I really like the ideas on ways to serve, (which can really be done as a family OR individually). The book includes ideas for serving family & friends, teachers, neighbors, and your community. 

NOTE:  Even though there are days of the month listed on each page, the activities in this eBook do not need to be done on any specific day, or in any certain order - unless you choose to do it that way. Just download it and have fun!  It is a practical guide of meaningful opportunities that families can use to connect with each other and celebrate Jesus together.

Begin creating special memories with your family today by downloading and reading through Arlene Pellicane’s “25 Days of Christmas” ebook. Its FREE, so why not? 

While you're at it, you can also check out The Happy Home Podcast on the AccessMore podcast network.

CLICK THE LINK BELOW:

25 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

Many thanks to AccessMore for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

#25DaysMIN

#25DaysofChristmas

#MomentumInfluencerNetwork

REVIEW: Ellie Claire Art Journals

Do you enjoy writing in a journal? Do you enjoy creative coloring? Are you looking for a journal that is different than just a bunch of blank lines? Look no further. I was given 3 journals to look through, with the Ellie Claire imprint, and they are unlike any other journals I have seen or used.  You might find what you are looking for with one of these options.

The Illustrated Word, from the Museum of the Bible, is an Illuminated Bible Coloring Journal that includes intricate coloring pages as well as lined pages. There are 40 color illustrations in the journal, inspired by the Museum's collection of illuminated manuscripts (early Bible and book manuscripts that were intricately illustrated to make the Biblical text come alive). These 40 illustrations have been recreated as line drawings for the purpose of coloring and creating your own treasured keepsake.

Illuminate Your Story is also from the Museum of the Bible. It is a bit smaller in size than the first journal I mentioned but it is easy to hold and includes some extra features such as:  an attached cloth bookmark, an elastic strap to hold the book shut, a pocket on the inside of the back cover to hold keepsakes, and an elastic band on the spine to hold a pen or pencil. This journal is unique in the way it provides a step-by-step guide for drawing illuminated letters (like the S on the journal cover). In the introduction, you can also learn about the history and significance of biblical illuminations. So, this smaller journal is BIG in many ways. It provides opportunities for learning about biblical illuminations, for developing a skill, for writing your stories on the lined pages, and for being creative.

Faith & Lettering, is the final journal I was able to review. It is not from Museum of the Bible, but from hand-lettering artist and graphic designer Krystal Whitten. This one is probably my favorite out of the three. It has pretty colors inside and out, and provides practice room for learning how to hand-create different lettering styles and embellishments. It also includes pages for Bible journaling, as well as lined pages for writing down your thoughts.

It really depends on your "style" and what you are looking for in a journal keepsake; but I think I will start out with the Faith & Lettering Journal. It fits my style the best out of the three. But, all of them look great and give new meaning to the phrase "creative journaling."

If you are looking for a unique gift to give to your creative family members, consider one of these journals, or head over to WORTHY PUBLISHING GROUP to see loads of other Ellie Claire journals that are available.

 

"Christian Quotes" Inspirational Website

A great way for Christians to encourage other Christians is by sharing uplifting Bible verses and encouraging quotes. ChristianQuotes.info has made it easier for us to do that. Check out this inspirational website that has over 10,000 Christian quotes on it, categorized by Bible, Author and Topic. You can also read a new devotional each day based on the daily quote.

Some of the most read and used pages on the website include:

• World’s 10 Most Encouraging Bible Verses In Quote Images
• Christian Quotes most shareable images
• World’s 10 Best Bible Verses About Hope In Comforting Images 

 
Thousands of images are allowed to be shared for free on Facebook, blogs, and other social media websites, as long as they are not altered or sold. Many of these images can be seen on, and shared from, the Christian Quotes Facebook page, which already has over 4.5 million fans. 

Below are a few examples of some of the images. Be sure to check out the others on the website, and don't be afraid to share - share - share. Let's flood the Internet with God's Word and good thoughts.

Family Honor Plate & Table Thyme Discussion Cards

I have two fun Christmas gift ideas to share with you today that can be used in your own family, or given to another family you wish to bless.

#1 - THE FAMILY HONOR PLATE

This plate starts out as a do-it-yourself (DIY) ceramics-painting project you design and bake at home. You can paint it together as a family or, if you want some creativity time, you can take an evening and paint it yourself. That's what I did. My kids weren't really interested in painting it, so I took the time to do it myself. I chose to paint the words, "You Are A Blessing" on it, because that is the basic idea of the plate - to help children understand how and why they have been a blessing to someone (read more info about that below), but we also plan on using it throughout the year on each of our birthdays. Here's how my plate turned out:

After the plate is painted and baked, it is meant to be used as a fun parenting tool that encourages children (and everyone in the family) to learn more about and focus on the fruits of the Spirit found in Galatians 5.

Galatians 5:22-23 - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, 

peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 

gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

THE STEPS FOR USING THE PLATE:

Step #1 - PARENTS SHOULD BE THE EXAMPLE: Our children are watching us and learning from us. This is how they learn what character (Christ's Character) is, what it looks like, what it feels like. The virtues are listed in the center of the plate for parents to use as their moral compass. 

Step #2 - BE ON THE LOOKOUT: Look for the good choices and attitudes your kids/spouse are making and showing throughout the day. Track it back to the virtues listed on the plate.

Step #3 - CELEBRATE THEIR CHARACTER: When you catch someone making good choices and showing good character, present their meal on the FAMILY HONOR PLATE that evening at mealtime. Talk about the good choices they made and the virtues and character that it showed (Be specific about how they were a blessing). Talk about how their actions were POWERFUL and BEAUTIFUL because of the impact they made in someone's life.

I believe this would make a unique Christmas gift for a family you love, including your own. It includes everything you need to paint the plate, and display it in the home. Watch this video for more information, or go ahead and PURCHASE HERE:  FAMILY HONOR PLATE 

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#2 - TABLE THYME DISCUSSION CARDS

My family and I have been using these during our evening meal times together. We try to do at least 2 questions per meal, and have enjoyed learning more about the others in our family. 

Here's an example of a question my 14 year old son answered:

• QUESTION: If you could be any animal, what would you be?
• ANSWER: A dog - a golden retriever
• QUESTION:  Why?
• ANSWER: They are soft and friendly, and I've just always wanted to have one of my own. I like cats, and I'm glad to have Sofie [his cat], but I think it would be cool to have a dog, too.

Move around the table until everyone has had a chance to answer. It is fun, and interesting, and is a good way to get to know each other better. It provides a way to share memories, and is a way to make memories also.


NOTE: As a member of FlyBy Promotions, I received a sample of these products in exchange for this review and post.

Gospel Tools from "Let the Little Children Come"

Children are not too young to understand how they can have a relationship with Christ. Even Jesus said in Matthew 19:14, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” In fact, I am personally thankful for the people in my life who shared the Gospel message with me when I was a child. Because of these blessed adults who took the time to share with me, I accepted Christ at a young age and continue to follow Him today. 

You may be wondering how YOU can start being an effective minister to children. If so, take a look at these evangelism tools available from LET THE LITTLE CHILDREN COME. 

The goal of Let The Little Children Come is to provide effective gospel tracts, evangelism tools, and resources for children. They are not affiliated with any specific church or organization, but their products are especially designed to capture and hold children's attention, while teaching them about the message of salvation by faith alone through Jesus Christ.

I received a SAMPLE PACK of products, which included the 10 items shown in the photo above, and was impressed with the selection of colorful and interesting tools. There are pop-up booklets where an item pops out when you open the pages; there are Gospel flip-abouts that are fun to use (once you can figure out how to use them. Ha! My 14 year old son actually figured it out before I did, but its not too hard); there are classic wordless books, bead bracelets and silicone bands that all have the colors needed to share the Gospel message (Instructions for sharing are included with purchase, or can also be found on the website); and there are animated tracts that include a special plastic sheet which makes images on the page seem as if they are moving. All of these items, as well as several others can be found on the website's PRODUCT PAGE. 

These would be great items to use in a Sunday School class, children's church, or Vacation Bible School program, or simply to share with your own children. They might even make unique stocking stuffers this Christmas season. Regardless, they really could be helpful tools in effectively ministering to children of all ages.


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NOTE: As a member of FlyBy Promotions, I received a sample of this product in exchange for this review and post. The opinions expressed are mine alone.

BOOK: "Sprout's Journey" by Carolyn McIntosh

It's time to go on an adventure! All you have to do is read this new book, Sprout's Journey, written and illustrated by my niece, Carolyn McIntosh. This is her debut book as an author and, inside, she shares the experiences of a girl by the name of Sprout. It is similar to Pilgrim's Progress in the way that Sprout meets many different friends and foes along her path. Some of them include:  Complacency, Ego P. Ride, Shimmer of Hope, Humble Inspiration, and Good News. She encounters many obstacles along the way, as well as encouragement and hope, which are all meant to help her grow in her faith.

Carolyn writes:  "Sprout's Journey is about a girl who has been a Christian for awhile, but is just now choosing to follow the path The Creator has set before her. She is named Sprout because she is still in the process of growing."

This would be a great book for pre-teen and teenage girls, as it includes many of the thoughts and feelings young girls face. However, there are many great insights that anyone could benefit from. For example, in chapter one, Sprout meets Humble Inspiration, a man who had been on the path for quite some time. He gives her information about how The Creator can help her on her journey by saying to her:

"First... you must trust The Creator one-hundred percent. Then, once you have committed to doing that, you must understand who you are in Him."

"You see, young Sprout," the man continued as he pointed towards the horizon, "The world is full of lies. I can already see how they have burned your heart as the sun burns skin. It wasn't meant to be there and it causes great pain and suffering. That is why you must read The Book and learn the truth."

Humble Inspiration turned, looked Sprout in the eye, and warned, "Do not believe the lies. You have to understand that The Creator is good."

"Second," He continued, "you must believe with all your heart that The Creator has a plan and that He will not leave you. Even when the path becomes tough and you feel like quitting, you mustn't settle for less."

You will also find various quotes and Scripture references to back up the content in the book, so it might even be good to use in a Sunday School or youth group setting.

Order your copy today on Amazon. It is available in paperback or Kindle formats.

BOOK INFO: God Puts Us Where He Wants Us

In February 2017, my family and I took a trip to visit my parents. While we were there, my dad (a retired Pastor and Bible College Instructor) handed me a 3-ring binder that included some of his memoirs, thoughts, and past teachings. He told me he finally wanted to start working on the book we had been asking him to write, and asked me to edit it and get it ready for publishing.

I looked over Dad's material, and began editing the book in March. Dad was mostly home bound at this point, but we collaborated via e-mail and telephone calls until his book was finally published on April 17th. This book was a goal Dad had wanted to accomplish, and I am thankful I had the opportunity to help make it happen for him. It ended up being his final project on earth.

A BRIEF HEALTH HISTORY:  It was over 15 years ago when Dad had aggressive, fast-growing prostate cancer. He was told he would only have several months to live if he didn't seek treatment. After weighing his options, he and Mom chose for him to receive brachytherapy which, in short, is the implanting of tiny radiation seeds that kill off the cancer. The treatment did its job, and Dad was cancer free for the past 15+ years. We are thankful he was given these additional years to take part in the lives of his family and friends. The drawback is that the radiation seeds caused damage to Dad's internal organs and, over this past year, his health began to take a drastic turn for the worse.  Ultimately, his liver failed and he went home to be with the Lord on May 12th, less than a month after his book became available.

Dad wasn't perfect, and he was the first to admit it, but he loved the Lord and was always looking for ways to serve Him. So, when he became home bound, it was hard for him to be less physically active, and he went through a difficult time of feeling somewhat "useless." But, what he eventually learned is that God can and does use us, no matter what season of life we are in. Even as Dad's health was failing, God used him in the hospital to speak with others about the Lord. God also used him to be a counselor and encourager when people would call and talk with him. Finally, God used him to write this small, easy to read, 86-page book that shares "where he has been," and "where he is now" through a collection of memoirs, meaningful moments, teachings, and observations.

Dad's hope for this book was for his readers to be Spiritually encouraged, and to help us understand how God places us where HE wants us, and then it is our responsibility to serve Him no matter where we have been placed.

Here is the link to order a copy on Amazon in either paperback or Kindle format. (FYI: My mother, Carolyn, is the beneficiary of any proceeds.)

GOD PUTS US WHERE HE WANTS US

SIDE NOTE:  The church on the cover of the book was hand-drawn by my dad from memory. It is Belew's Creek Chapel, a little church he ministered at in Missouri. 

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: When Jesus Was a Green-Eyed Brunette by Max Davis [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

When I first started reading When Jesus Was a Green-Eyed Brunette by Max Davis, I wasn't sure what the main idea was supposed to be. By the title, I thought it would be about seeing Jesus in others, and I expected it to be a compilation of stories along those lines. As I read further, I realized the book was more than that.

The book is about the author's personal journey of how he came to know Jesus through the example of a green-eyed brunette (his current wife), and how he figured out what his purpose is in life which, according to Davis, is for him to "look like Jesus while in his own skin." (p. 63) What he means is that we all have our own unique callings in life, and he shared how he believes God called him to become a writer, and how God used his circumstances to help him be the kind of writer (and the kind of person) God wanted him to be.

Interspersed among his story, Davis shares stories from the lives of Christians who helped shape his faith. Some of the stories are about miraculous moments where someone had been physically healed. Other stories are about how God used someone's circumstances to bring about spiritual healing. He explains that, while God does sometimes choose to heal physically, the main focus should be for a healing of the heart.

Davis sums everything up by saying the purpose of this book is "about allowing the Jesus inside us to transform us and then use us to touch the people who come into our lives - to love people as God does." (p.179) In other words, the circumstances we face are not always fun, but ALL can be beneficial.

Enter the form below for a chance to win a copy of this book. Giveaway closes Thursday, December 22, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. CST. One entry per mailing address. U.S. addresses only.

Entry-Form

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. Or 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: The 100 Most Encouraging Verses of the Bible

The 100 Most Encouraging Verses of the Bible

1.  Its a thin paperback book.
2.  It is a short, easy to read, devotional type book.
3.  It is not full of non-essential words, as there is only one page per verse.
4.  It includes a lot of Biblical encouragement.
5.  It includes many familiar and expected verses, but also includes many I had never thought of as being encouraging.

The book I am talking about is The 100 Most Encouraging Verses of the Bible by Troy Schmidt.

An example of a familiar verse is Isaiah 41:10. It is fairly self-explanatory:

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

An example of a verse that may not seem so encouraging at first glance is Genesis 21:6:

And Sarah said, "God has made me laugh, and all who hear will laugh with me."

The author has this to say about Genesis 21:6:

In times of despair, God can do things to make you laugh. Sarah found the humor in her desperation. She had given up hope; now she offered up laughs. Look for the laughter in your situation. (page 10)

If you like quick, easy devotional-type books, this would be a good one to have on your nightstand. You can read about one or two verses as you start your day, or pick it up before you shut the lights out at night. I have been encouraged by the book, and I think you will be also.


I received a free copy of this book from the  Bethany House Blogger Review Program for the purpose of this review.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: The Life We Never Expected [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

Christians, in particular, can feel like we ought not to vent our emotions at God; we prefer tidy prayers like "God, we don't understand, but we trust you" to the chaotic, confused, howling prayers we find in the Psalms. But those songs are in the Bible because we are supposed to express ourselves that way. "How long, O Lord? Will You forget us forever? What are you doing? Can't you see we're in agony down here, banging our fists against our tear-soaked pillows and eating dust for dinner? If you ever loved us, O God, come and fix things! Now!" If God is big enough to be worth yelling at about your situation, He is big enough to take your pain, hear your lament, and somehow use it to comfort you in the confusion. ~ Found on page 54 of The Life We Never Expected  by Andrew and Rachel Wilson

This is a book I am sure I could have benefited from when my daughter was first diagnosed with autism.  Andrew and Rachel Wilson, who have two children diagnosed with regressive autism, discuss fighting for joy, thriving in the midst of trials, grief, healing, prayer, and more. Through it all, they point readers to Christ, the One who promises to make all things new.

If you are a parent of a special needs child, this is a great book to pick up. It is a book of short reflections that reveal the real thoughts and real feelings of the authors. They use their own experiences to help others process the various stages that come with parenting a special needs child.

BUT... even if you don't have a child with a disability, this book can be good for you, too! It is actually good for ANYONE, because it covers things like loss, hope, contentment, and joy. Plus, the chapters are short and easy to read, which is a good thing for all of us busy people.

Enter below for a chance to win a copy of this book. Entries will be accepted until Saturday, July 9, 2016, at 8:00 p.m. CST. One entry per mailing address.

Entry-Form

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. Or 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 & CONTEST: My Mother's Quilts

Are you a quilt-maker? I am not. I did try my hand at latch-hook rugs for a season, and also did some cross stitching. Other than that, I have never really enjoyed sewing or knitting, or anything like that. But, I do know how much time and work goes into these things, and I admire those who take the time to do it. The finished products are beautiful works of art, and it seems that most quilts usually have a story that comes with them. They are family heirlooms that can be passed down to the next generation. 

My Mother’s Quilts by Ramona Richards is a pretty little devotional book inspired by 30 family heirloom quilts, some more than 100 years old. In 60 devotionals (2 for each quilt), Ramona shares her memories and the lessons she learned from the stories behind each quilt. Each reading provides a Bible verse, a lesson with some encouragement, and a prayer at the end. The book also includes full color photographs of each of the quilts, and comes with an attached ribbon bookmark. It is an especially good find for anyone who loves quilts and the stories behind them but, even if you don't love to quilt, you can benefit from the encouragement found in the book. Here's an example from one of the lessons about the Friendship Quilt, which is featured on page 146 of the book:

"While individual worship and spiritual growth can help grow your relationship with the Lord, it is through community that we receive support and encouragement. Throughout Scripture we are encouraged to gather in His name, not only for worship, but for the strength to be had in uplifting and praying for each other."

CONTEST OFFER! You can WIN one of the quilts featured in #MyMothersQuilts by Ramona Richards. Also up for grabs: loads of other prizes including quilting hand warmers, coloring books, and 25 signed copies of Ramona’s book. Enter now! Winners will be emailed after the contest ends on June 30, 2016. Click the image below to get started!

Click image to be taken to the Contest page

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ramona Richards is an award-winning editor, speaker, author of nine books, and a frequent contributor to devotional collections. An avid live music fan, Ramona loves Nashville, which she’s called home since she was ten. Sensing her mother was near the end of her life, Ramona documented her mother’s stories and lessons behind each family quilt. These stories form the devotions in My Mother’s Quilts. Find out more about Ramona and her books by visiting her online at ramonarichards.com.   

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Mother & Son The Respect Effect [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

Ephesians 5:33 - However, let each one of you love his wife as

himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband. (ESV)

Love and respect are two different things. Ephesians 5:33 teaches husbands to love their wives, and wives to respect their husbands. I have always wondered why God instructed wives to respect their husbands, rather than love them, and have recently come to understand it is because men will not feel loved UNLESS they are respected. It is the same with boys and girls. Girls are young women, so they respond best to love. Boys are young men, so they respond best to respect. This teaching is the basic grounds of a new book by Emerson Eggerichs called, Mother & Son: The Respect Effect. 

A mother can love her son and still not show him respect. She may feel like her son does not deserve respect because of his disobedience or disrespectful attitude towards her. She may believe he needs to EARN her respect. However, this book shares how it is possible for her to address her son's disobedience WITHOUT being rude (i.e. disrespectful).

SIMPLE DEFINITION:  A mother's respect is her positive regard toward her son, no matter what he does. (p. 14)

This is one of the few books I know about that addresses the relationship between a mother and a son. I am only in chapter 3 of the book but, so far, I have agreed with what I have read and have found the book to be a useful tool for moms of ANY age sons. It is easy to read, and full of helpful information that tells mothers how to use "respect-talk" with their sons in order to improve and/or strengthen their relationship. At the end of chapter one, the author says:  

"When a mother does what I set forth in this book, even when she and her son have bad days, her son will respond less negatively. I acknowledge that things may not be as positive as she hopes and prays, but they will be better." 

If you are the mother of a son, I encourage you to pick up a copy of this book. Or, if you would like a  chance to WIN a copy, use the entry form below. Entries will be accepted until Saturday, June 4, 2016, at 8:00 p.m. CST. One entry per mailing address.

Entry-Form

"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.  Or 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: Live Fearless (An Adult Coloring Book)

Coloring and being creative isn't just for kids. Live Fearless, by Margaret Feinberg, is an adult
coloring book that provides an opportunity for you to mentally step away from the busyness of life in order to color, pray, doodle, reflect, and journal. At the same time, you get to focus on a Bible verse that will help you rediscover the goodness and faithfulness of God, no matter what you are facing.

I love this idea! There are 20 verses, with 20 coloring pages, and 20 journaling pages that can all be used to help you reflect on God's Word and deepen your faith in Him. Then, you can also encourage others by taking a photo of a finished page and posting it on social media sites with the hashtag #livefree.

The only thing I think the book could use is maybe some more pages.

For a peek of the inside, check it out here on AMAZON.com.

NOTE:  I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, and I have shared my own opinion.

REVIEW: After the Boxes Are Unpacked

A few months ago, due to my husband's new job, I was certain we were going to have to uproot our family and move to a new town. So, I became interested in doing a review of this revised book, After the Boxes Are Unpacked, by Susan Miller

As of now, we haven't made a final decision on whether or not we will be moving. I am hoping things will work out that we won't have to move because the to-do list of re-locating is incredibly overwhelming, and the adjustment process is stressful on the entire family. But, if we do end up moving, I will be using some of the tips/advice given in this book to unpack my "survival box." To be more clear, the "survival box" is a list of suggestions given at the end of a chapter that can help you alleviate loneliness, express your love for your husband, be more organized, help your children through the adjustment process, and put your focus in the right place... just to name a few.

It's really hard to pinpoint the most helpful tip I learned from this book, because there are so many; but I love the Scripture references that are included, and the encouraging tone of the book. I like how the author stresses the point on page 39, "A life change like moving is not easy. But God doesn't always want to make it easy for us, for it's in those stressful times that we grow closer to Him. Sometimes God allows us to go through an experience for the powerful lessons we could learn no other way." 

So, for those of you who have recently moved, or are planning on moving soon, this would be a good book for you to get. The advice the author gives is given out of her own experiences of moving, and it can help lead you in the step by step process of (1) letting go, (2) starting over, and (3) moving forward.

Deuteronomy 31:8 - It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. (ESV)

Tyndale House Publishers has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book, and I have expressed my own opinion.

 

REVIEW: 8 Simple Tools for Raising Great Kids (+ Discount Code)

Are you interested in receiving practical tips to help you build a stronger relationship with your kids or grandkids? Are you a busy parent (or grandparent) who doesn't have much time to sit and read a thick book full of non-essential information? If yes, then check out 8 Simple Tools for Raising Great Kids by Todd Cartmell. It is a little book with big advice that won't take up too much of your time.

The 8 tools listed are:  Talking, Listening, Influencing, Connecting, Teaching, Encouraging, Correcting and Leading. Then, for each of the 8 tools, the book includes 5 short chapters (a total of 40 chapters) that are easy to read, and short enough to read only a few pages at a time and come away with some helpful information.

I have been reading the book a little at a time and have been impressed with what I have read. The author doesn't tell parents everything we are doing wrong. He simply shares personal stories and gives gentle suggestions (tools) that can help us develop a stronger relationship with our children.

In the introduction, the author says: "If you are a parent who talks and listens to your kids, influences them with the power of your words, connects with them, teaches and encourages them, corrects them, and leads them through your example, then I believe you will change the trajectory of their lives."

It is not a devotional book, as there aren't any Scripture references to focus on at the end of each chapter; but, it is based on the Biblical principle to "train up a child in the way he should go." (Proverbs 22:6) So, the tools in this book are helpful in equipping parents to be the kind of loving and nurturing parents God wants us to be.

A DEAL FOR YOU: From April 15th through May 15th, you can get 50% OFF this book when you order from MOODY PUBLISHERS. You must use this discount code when you checkout: GREATKIDS16 

Also, along with your purchase (for a limited time), you can receive access to download the "Hearts At Home Essential Workshop Collection for Parents."  Just fill in THIS FORM at the book's website.

Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC, and Moody Publishers, for providing this book for review purposes. The opinions expressed are my own. 

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: Created for More by Jonathan Malm [GIVEAWAY CLOSED]

Do you enjoy painting, designing, drawing, writing, preaching, dancing, acting, crafting, sewing, photography, baking, cooking, etc.? In other words, do you like to CREATE, whether it be for a hobby or for a job? If so, there is a new book, Created for More by Jonathan Malm that you might want to check out.  It is a short 30-day devotional that could be the spark you are looking for to help jump start your devotional life, as well as provide challenges for enhancing your creativity.

Malm points out that we are all uniquely made by God, and we each see things differently in this world but, sometimes, when we are expressing our creativity, we make things too complicated. He writes, "Creativity isn't some excessively complicated thing. It's simple. Just show others what you see." 

Each devotion has a Scripture reference, a short message, a prayer starter, a summary to help you change the way you think, and a challenge.  

I did not do any of the challenges listed at the end of each devotion. They just didn't excite me. I guess I was looking for more specific ways to help me be more creative in my writing; but, to me, they were too vague and just didn't provide enough motivation. However, I read through everything else in the devotions. I enjoyed them because they were different than the usual devotions I have read, and they gave an interesting perspective on how creativity reflects our creative God.

If you are interested in reading this book, I would be happy to pass my copy along. Just leave a comment below with your contact info, or send me an e-mail. I will randomly choose the winner on Saturday, February 20, 2016, at 8:00 p.m. CST. One entry per person. USA only.

NOTE: I recently joined the blog review team for Moody Publishers, and received this book free for the purpose of this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

REVIEW: Trim Healthy Mama Cookbook

I have been hearing so much about the Trim Healthy Mama diet plan by sisters Pearl Barrett and Serene Allison. Their first book caught the attention of many mamas who were looking to eat healthier, control blood sugar, lose weight, and keep the weight off. Then, more recently, two new books by the sisters were published through Penguin Random House. One is the new updated THM plan book, Trim Healthy Mama Plan. And, the other is the Trim Healthy Mama Cookbook. 

I haven't read the "plan" book yet, but I did get a copy of the cookbook. I wanted to see what kinds of recipes can be made on this THM plan. As I read it, I found the sisters have a unique sense of humor that gives the book a fun, light tone; and it has some interesting recipes I am sure I will be trying in future months - things like Reuben in a Bowl, Fotato Soup, Taco Meatloaf, and the Pumpkin Pie Sip (a beverage that is meant to be sipped throughout the day to curb hunger). However, if you are wanting to know more about the THM plan, you will need more than the cookbook to really understand it. The cookbook is meant to supplement the "plan" book; and, if you want the recipes to really work for you, it is best to actually KNOW the plan first. Pearl and Serene even mention this in the introduction to the cookbook.

On its own, the cookbook is colorful, laid out well, and includes more than 350 recipes including one-pot meals, main dishes, sides, breakfasts, sweet treats, and beverages. If you are already doing the THM plan, and are wanting some new recipes to try, I recommend you get this cookbook.

NOTE:  I received this book from Blogging for Books for the purpose of this review.

REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: 90 Minutes in Heaven (Book) [Giveaway CLOSED]

On September 11, 2015, a new faith-based movie, "90 Minutes in Heaven," will be opening in theaters around the country. THE MOVIE is based on a book by Pastor Don Piper (a young Baptist Minister), who was declared dead in 1989 when a semi truck crushed his car. Don's body lay under a tarp for the next 90 minutes, but Don says his soul was alive and well in Heaven during that time. It was considered a miracle when another Pastor prayed for Don at the accident scene and Don was revived. However, Don wished he had never been brought back to Earth. The beauty and joy of Heaven was replaced by excruciating pain - both physical and emotional. It took the support and prayers of his wife, their three children, and many friends, to help Don hold onto his faith while he fought through a very long recovery process. 

The movie is presented by GIVING FILMS, and is rated PG-13 (for intense accident and injury images). It stars Hayden Christensen, Kate Bosworth, Michael W. Smith, Fred Thompson, Dwight Yoakam, and Jason Kennedy. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE OFFICIAL TRAILER. 

I received a copy of the new movie edition of the book and it was VERY interesting to read, especially his description of what Heaven was like. However, don't let the title fool you, as there are only 2 chapters that fully talk about Piper's time in Heaven. The rest of the book focuses on his long, painful recovery, the depression he encountered, the prayers of others that helped him through, and the testimonies of many who have been encouraged by Piper's story.  It is obvious that Piper's experiences have been a huge ministry tool to help bring others closer to the Lord. My only disappointment is that I could not find a clear Gospel message presented in the book. Several proclaim they have accepted Christ as their Savior in response to Piper's testimony, and that is excellent to hear; but I'm sure there are many readers who could benefit from a deeper explanation. Piper does, however, include a Gospel message on his ministry website:  DON PIPER MINISTRIES. And, the address link can be found at the end of the book. 


If interested, YOU also have a chance to win a copy of this book, just by entering the drawing below. Giveaway ends Saturday, September 12, 2015, at 8:00 p.m. CST.

Entry-Form

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OFFICIAL MOVIE TWITTER PAGE