Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Review: Father of Lights DVD & Giveaway



About Father of Lights
FATHER OF LIGHTS chronicles the journey of filmmaker Darren Wilson and his team as they fearlessly travel the globe, far from the daily existence of the typical evangelical believer in the West. By thoughtfully documenting the stories of extraordinary believers and candidly filming miracles, visions and other supernatural occurrences, Wilson engages viewers in modern day examples of the true nature and character of God.  

Wilson gives honest access to his own spiritual questions as he tackles the religious misconceptions he has struggled with throughout his life.  “I went into making this film by asking the simple question: who is God? I wanted to know His character, His personality, and who He truly is. To answer this question, we had to peel back the many layers of religious garbage that has been passed onto him through generations. That He is angry. Vengeful. Wrathful. And in general, that He doesn’t like you very much. The truth, as you will see vibrantly in this film, is that He is the most loving, compassionate, and wonderful Father you can imagine.”

About Wanderlust Productions
Wanderlust Productions is a video production company focusing on creating content for various media that highlights, informs, and is designed to spiritually stretch our audience.  Created by Darren Wilson, Professor at Judson University, Wanderlust’s focus is on telling stories that inspire and agitate, that are unwavering in their honesty yet are emotionally compelling.  While our content will always be Christian in nature, we are not afraid to explore themes, concepts, or areas that may be considered “risky” by the Christian establishment.  Wanderlust prides itself on its willingness to put the story above the message.  That being said, the message will never waver.  

My Review:
 This is the first time I had the chance to watch a film by Wanderlust Productions. My family and I sat down to view it and it immediately drew us in. We LOVE watching films like this. Darren Wilson and his team have traveled the world to find out who God truly is. I know to me as a child I thought God was a tall, very old man with long, flowing white hair and a long, white beard carrying a staff. But as I have grown in my spiritual walk as well as growing more mature I have a more personal relationship with Him.
 My Father is my friend, my secret keeper. The One I can depend on always when things are going well or when things aren't. He is ever faithful and always near. The Wanderlust team has done a great job on showing us that a stronger, more intimate relationship with God is possible. He is always wanting us close to Him. We are to revere and respect Him but above all I think He wants us to love Him. He is our Daddy after all and isn't that what all Dad's want us to do?
 I like alot of the stories I heard on the film but the main one that I liked was the one about Ravi. What an amazing man of God this man is. I would love to meet him in person one day. He really has made a big impact on my family. This man is an excellent follower of Christ. We should all strive to go about God's work just as he has done.
 You know God just wants to love us. We serve a mighty God that comes to us no matter what the situation only to love us and draw us closer to Him. My sponsor has decided to giveaway a Father of Lights DVD. So please enter the rafflecopter below. If you want to learn more about the movie you can visit this website. Please view the video below to learn more. You won't be disappointed.

 

 "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."



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, October 29, 2012

Review:Peaceful Passage by:Kim West


About the Book:
 Taking care of a loved one on their final journey can be one of the richest, most life-affirming experiences you'll ever have. And perhaps the hardest one you'll ever go through. There's far more involved than just hospice details and your loved one's constant physical and emotional needs. There are your needs as well-as your "regular" life obligations collide head-on with this potentially all-encompassing commitment.
 Enter Peaceful Passage, a true labor of love from professional counselor Kim West. West was at her mother's side during her last months of life, and chronicled the whole process in order to provide a comprehensive and proven blueprint for others to follow.

IN THE PAGES WITHIN, YOU'LL FIND PRACTICAL GUIDELINES FOR:
Determining first steps once you've heard the news

Charting a course with hospice as your partner

Dealing with your loved one's emotional roller coaster

Navigating demands of marriage,family, children and career

Handling the daily, ongoing physical challenges and demands

Confronting common fears and unresolved emotional issues

Working through inner conflicts around faith and God

Managing the myriad post-passage details and arrangements

Finding closure, returning to routine and reflecting on the journey

Peaceful Passage is your essential, all-in-one guide to handling every aspect of this often heart-wrenching and heartwarming journey.


About the Author:
Kim West holds a PhD in Clinical Pastoral Counseling and a M.Div. in Counseling and Family, but when her own mother became ill with terminal cancer she found that she had no hands-on knowledge of how to take care of her.
As a counselor she knew to journal her own experience to help her process her grief at losing her mother and she knew how to help her mother finish her life well and be prepared for the life to come. But the day-to-day of taking care of her mother as she died would require learning a whole new set of caring skills. And learn she did.
After completing her own journey with her mother she knew she had to help others who would travel this same path. Peaceful Passage is a merging of her years of counseling experience and the new skills she learned caring for her mother combined with her heart to help and to heal. You can also learn more about this book on Kim's website http://www.peaceful-passage.com/.  

Kim is also on Facebook here is that link: https://www.facebook.com/peacefulpassage.


My Review:
 Hearing that your loved when has limited time left on this earth is not an easy thing to hear. As I am sure it wasn't for Kim West author of Peaceful Passage. She decided to bring her mother to her home to wait out her final days. As the one that has to care for the ailing loved one you are caught between loving this person, caring for them and ultimately mourning over them even before you lay them to rest. Caring for that person while struggling with so much of the feelings and memories that you still hold dear is like climbing a mountain in a snow storm.
 Kim West decided to let us in and walk each step of the way with her. Be it the feelings she experienced or be it the things that she as well as us all that get the chance to show the person we love the honor it is to care for them in their final days. In this book the author finds out that her mother has a brain tumor and only has a few moths to live. So she decides it is best that her mother comes to her home to spend the remainder of her days. And in doing so she shows us the steps her family and she had to take to prepare their mother for her final journey.
 This book will guide through the process of what it takes to finalize,if you will, your loved one's  remaining time here.Kim has included places in the book to journal your thoughts. She has also included in the book names, numbers and organizations that can assist you in this ordeal. And there is even a workbook included throughout the pages of the book to work through some of those emotions. If you are facing the emotional upheaval of having to care for an aging family member this is just the book to iron out some of those uncertainties.

 Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.




Thursday, October 25, 2012

Review: Made in Heaven by: Comfort/Seto


About the Book:
 We often marvel at the wonders of the world around us and take enjoyment in its beauty. But did you know that many of the technological advances that make our lives better are based on nature? Who would have thought that such "lowly" creatures such as butterflies and beetles, mosquitoes, and mussels, wasps and worms could all serve as inspiration for today's top scientists?
 Even in the most advanced laboratories, scientists often begin their search for innovation in the natural world, studying God's creation in an effort to understand its complex, proven mechanics of design.
 Engineers and inventors have looked to fish, squids, and shrimp for such high-tech inventions as body armor, jet propulsion, and optical media. We have moths to thank for fueling new discoveries in solar panels. Yet how often has man merely copied God's designs and taken all the credit, when He is truly the source of all knowledge and creativity of this world?

About the Authors:
Ray Comfort is the best-selling author of more than 70 books, including The Evidence Bible (2002 Gold Medallion Book Awards finalist) and The Defender’s Guide for Life’s Toughest Questions published by Master Books.
He is the president of Living Waters ministry, co-host of an award-winning television program (with actor Kirk Cameron) called Way of the Master, blogs daily to hundreds of atheists at “Atheist Central,” and has debated atheistic evolution on ABC’s Nightline, as well as the BBC. His Atheist Test booklet has sold more than one million copies. Previous titles of Ray’s have ranked number #1 in various sales categories on Amazon.com including: apologetics, spirituality, atheism, and Christianity.He lives with his wife, Sue, in Southern California where they have three grown children. You can find out more about him here.


 Jeff Seto works as an Aerospace Engineer in Experimental Research and Development. His work encompasses supersonic boom suppression, synthetic vision approach systems and structural and system testing in civilian and military sectors. He has worked internationally in the U.S., Canada, and Germany for over 20 years. He holds a B. Eng in Aerospace, an Electrical Engineering Diploma in Avionics and is a Senior member of AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). He is married and currently resides in California.

 My Review:
 This book discusses how we use and study the things that God created as a back drop for our own creations. When in reality all praise should be given to the Almighty. The authors of Made in Heaven in my opinion brought science and creation together. They have put together an interesting, quick read on how certain things around us in nature have been used to further advance our society. Such as how mosquitoes are studied to develop painless needles for those with diseases that require being pricked by needles on a daily basis.
 Or maybe how the healing power of the body has encouraged some scientists to look into creating self-healing materials. Do you believe that God gave us the things around us for us to expand on them and create more things for our use and enjoyment? I think it is neat sometimes how some scientists the ones that don't believe that God exist to use the very things he created to expand our world. To most of us and me included it doesn't matter if they give Him all the credit because I believe if he feels that is wrong that is between God and them. All that matters to me is that I take this life he gave me, enjoy it as best as I can and give Him all the glory for it. New Leaf Publishing Group would like to learn more about there products so please visit their website. And if you would like to learn more about this neat, little book you can learn more here. I have also included a book trailer at the end of this post so feel free to check it out as well.

**Disclaimer** This book was provided to me for free by the New Leaf Publishing Group for my unbiased review.


Review: The Genius of Ancient Man by: Don Landis with Jackson Hole Bible College



About the Book:
 All over the world there are similar findings of ancient religions, cities and towers, global travel, advanced astronomy, and civilized government.
 A team of researchers from Jackson Hole Bible College has worked to solve the convoluted mystery and history of ancient man. Discover:

~ Why structures echoing the Tower of Babel have been recreated in every major culture

~ What ancient artifacts & archeology, technology & innovation, reveal about the origin of mankind

~ Why many biblical symbols (rainbows, human sacrifice, mountains, the Son/sun worship) are distorted in pagan religious practices

Learn about the shocking parallels in the historical record that reveals Satan's "counterfeit" of God's plan for humanity and God's plan still being fulfilled.

 From the Native American mounds of the United States to the enigmatic pyramids of Nubia, discover the complex world and genius of early man that reveal God's creative hand.


About the Authors:
 Don Landis is the president of Jackson Hole Bible College in Jackson, Wyoming. He is also Sr. Pastor at Community Bible Church in Jackson and Chairman of the Board for Answers in Genesis. He is the chief editor for The Genius of Ancient Man and worked closely alongside many students from Jackson Hole Bible College who also contributed to its completion.

Video Book Trailer 

My Review:
 This is a very interesting book used to dispell some of the myths that a being brought to light by many in our world and communities. Don Landis along with some students from the Jackson Hole Bible College decided to take their travels around North America even into Central America on their quest to prove the Bible's validity. From what I read in this book they have done a great job of it. The author has addressed many of the different topics that have questioned a lot of us. One being why many of men in the Bible lived many, many years. I mean have you ever seen a 900 something year old man? I haven't but what an amazing site it would be. The author also points out that because of the recent advances in technology which would go to assume that we are more intelligent than in years past. Actually, points to the contrary. Because of the most recent advancement being computers and our relying on them so much. This actually shows a decline in our mental performance and discipline.
 What is so ironic about that last statement is that my husband and I had the same thought on it. We have felt for a long time that with all the advancements in technology we have become a weakened as a society. When we look back in Bible to Adam's time, Noah's time these men built things with their own hands. The Tower of Babel for instance, is stated by the author as still existing and is spread out among the entire earth. What an amazing reveal. Let me tell you that this is a book on the subject of apologetics. It is used as a resource to expand your knowledge of the Bible not to distort it. It is a great reference book. And it has some amazing photographs taken from around the world. This is a very informative book and is a great addition to your library.
 If you would like to learn about New Leaf publishing and their many products you are welcome to visit their website here. And for a direct link to the product I reviewed you can visit this link.

**Disclaimer** This book was provided to me for free from New Leaf Publishing Group for an unbiased review.

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Modest Mom Giveaway



Modest Mom is having a HUGE Giveaway that I am so excited about. You can read all about here on their website. Looks like some very great prizes you should really check it out. The giveaway ends soon so you should enter right away!


Review: The True Account of Adam&Eve by Ken Ham



About the Book:
 Where mankind's history began impacts how our future will end!

 A loving God, a perfect Creation, two people living in a world without sin or death until one choice to disobey changed history forever. With biblical answers included, The True Account of Adam and Eve:

 ~ Explores the questions of Adam and Eve as real people in the Garden of Eden

 ~ Explains the connection between original sin and the Gospel

 ~ Emphasizes the importance of Adam and Eve as literal history to young and old alike.

 The book is a timely response to growing confusion from debates within the Church over the validity of Genesis as actual history, the reality of hell itself, and even if Adam was a real person. Trying to change the biblical time line to fit with secular concept of millions of years has led many in Christian academia to reject the literal interpretation of the Bible itself, unlocking the door to biblical compromise which will only worsen with each generation.  
 Perfect for children and parents to build a biblical foundation, The True Account of Adam and Eve helps you discover the truth about the first man and woman, how their disobedience led to the need for Jesus Christ, and how God's love for mankind includes you and your family today! 



About the Author:
 Ken Ham is the president/CEO and founder of Answers in Genesis - U.S. and the highly acclaimed Creation Museum. Ken Ham is one of the most in-demand Christian speakers in North America. Ken's emphasis is on the relevance and authority of the book of Genesis and how compromise on Genesis has opened a dangerous door regarding how the culture and church view biblical authority. His Australian accent, keen sense of humor, captivating stories, and exceptional PowerPoint illustrations have made him one of North America's most effective Christian communicators. If you would like to learn more about Ken Ham and all of his products you can go to his website here.


My Review:
 Upon reading and looking at this book which is about creation but above all about the creation of Adam and Eve. I loved how the author gets right to the point about explaining and laying everything out for children to understand as well as adults. The pictures and illustrations are magnificent, my children and I really enjoyed the look and feel of this book. Ken Ham has decided to step forward and address a growing concern among us all, I believe. And that is, was Adam a real man? Did it really take 6 days for creation to take place? The concern- is really that some out in the world do NOT believe the biblical account of creation and to me that is very sad. I believe the Word of God. No matter how crazy some people may think it sounds. God's words are real to me. I love Him and I truly believe.
 Ken decided to step up to the plate and examine and explore the Word and tell us what each part of the days of creation mean so there is no guessing. He took all the guess work out of it. When Adam and Eve sinned it changed a lot of things for all of us and the author lists those and how those relate to our everyday lives. There are Bible verses used through out the book. It is an excellent book to use as a topic for discussion among your family. My children and I really enjoyed talking about the subject material.
 Above is a little more about this great book!

If you would like to learn more about the book I reviewed more information can be found at this link . This book is published by Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group. You can go to their website here and learn more about all of their products.


*Disclaimer* I received this book for free for my unbiased review through the New Leaf Publishing Group.


Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Review: A Marriage Carol by:C. Fabry/G. Chapman



About the Book:
 On a snowy Christmas Eve, their anniversary, Marlee and Jacob take a treacherous drive to sign papers signaling the end. Tired of fighting, tired of the pain, and no passion left, they have chosen to end their marriage. But a shortcut over an icy mountain pass brings Marlee on a collision of her life. Visions of the past haunt; images of the present and future make her wonder if they have chosen the best course.
 With a nod toward Dickens and a heaping helping of truth from bestselling author Dr. Gary Chapman, this surprising tale will take you through twists and turns and lead you on a journey into the power of snow. If your heart needs rekindling, if you long for unconditional love, this story will bring warmth and hope.


About the Authors:
 CHRIS FABRY is a graduate of W. Page Pitt School of Journalism at Marshall University and Moody bible Institute's Advanced Studies Program. Chris can be heard daily on Love Worth Finding, featuring the teaching of the late Dr. Adrian Rogers. He received the 2008 "Talk Personality of the Year" Award from the National Religious Broadcasters. He has published more than 60 books since 1995, many of them fiction for younger readers. Chris collaborated with Jerry B. Jenkins and Dr. Tim LaHaye on the children's series Left Behind: The Kids. His two novels for adults, Dogwood and June Bug, are published by Tyndale House Publishers. Chris is married to his wife Andrea and they have five daughters and four sons.

 GARY CHAPMAN, PhD, is the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling The 5 Love Languages. With over 30 years of counseling experience, he has the uncanny ability to hold a mirror up to human behavior, showing readers not just where they go wrong, but also how to grow and move forward. Dr. Chapman holds BA and MA degrees in anthropology from Wheaton College and Wake Forest University, respectively, MRE and PhD degrees from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and has completed postgraduate work at the University of North Carolina and Duke University. For more information visit his website at www.5lovelanguages.com.

My Review:
 A Marriage Carol was a quick read that got straight to the point, who could argue with that? It begins with Jacob and Marlee Ebenezer in a car headed to the attorney's office to sign divorce papers on Christmas Eve in the middle of a snow storm. When after a change in route they end up in a car accident before they even reach the attorney's office. Which thank God it happened because what takes place after that transcends a miracle. Marlee can't find her husband so she sets out to find help at a nearby house. After the owner of the home helps her to get warm by the fire. He takes her on a journey that is handwritten by the Master of the Universe himself. The authors have set up a storyline that Dickens himself could not of hoped for. It makes a play on the old story The Christmas Carol but teaches us so much more. It teaches us that there is always hope even in the gravest of circumstances.
 Will Jacob and Marlee go on with the divorce? Will they see how wrong they both were? I can't let you know how it ends but I can tell you it is never too late to make a change. If you would like to find out more about this book you can go here.

**Disclaimer** This book was provided to me for free through the MP Newsroom Blogger Program for my honest review.

Monday, October 15, 2012

Review:Trusting God by:S. Jaynes/G. Smith/M. Southerland


About the Book:
 In a culture where we tend to take control of our own lives, trusting God has become a religious platitude rather than a life changing attitude. We say it, but do we really mean it? And what does trusting God actually look like?
 Sharon, Gwen, and Mary-the Girlfriends in God team-come from different backgrounds but have all individually wrestled with this weighty issue. And in Trusting God, they bring their combined experiences and biblical knowledge into one place. Whatever you're struggling with, they can relate and have probable been there themselves!


About the Authors:
 Sharon Jaynes has been encouraging and equipping women through ministry for over twenty-five years. From the time she met Christ as a teenager, she fell in love with God‚s Word and has had a passion to bring God‚s truth to today‚s woman. Through the years, she has taught various Bible Studies, served as a counselor at Charlotte Pregnancy Care, and mentored women from all walks of life. Her mission is to encourage, equip and empower women to walk in courage and confidence as they grasp their true identity as a child of God and a co-heir with Christ.
 Gwen Smith is a speaker, author, concert artist, songwriter and worship leader who inspires women toward the heart of God through stories, songs, and Scripture. Her fun, enthusiastic, and relatable communication style puts audiences at ease and bridges generational, denominational, and racial divides. As a co-founder of the conference and devotional ministry Girlfriends In God, Gwen has helped thousands of women experience how the Word of God and the power of grace, through Jesus Christ, rejuvenates faith and enriches lives.
 Mary Southerland is The Stress-Buster, a leader at helping women manage stress and enjoy peace in their daily life. Mary Southerland is a dynamic communicator, delivering a powerful message that changes lives. She will make you laugh, cry and walk away thirsting for more! Through warmth, humor, transparency and solid biblical teaching, Mary leads women to discover the powerful truth of God’s word and motivates them to apply it in their daily lives. An international speaker, Mary has spoken to thousands of women across the United States, Latin America, New Zealand, India, Thailand, South Africa and the United Kingdom. 

If you would like to learn anymore about the amazing women you can go to the Girlfriends In God website here

 My Review:
 Trusting God is a devotional and Bible study rolled into one. Sharon,Gwen & Mary have taken on the role as our Girlfriends in God. They collectively started a ministry website to help us girls out. We all could use some constant encouragement from Bible believing women that are a lot like us. Don't just take my word for it, here are a few words from their website:

Girlfriends in God is a non-denominational ministry that crosses generational and racial boundaries to bring the Body of Christ together as believers. Just as God sent Ruth to Naomi and Mary to Elizabeth, God continues to use women to encourage and equip other women in their spiritual journey.
We are doing life together!

Upon opening the book it starts out as any Bible study would a Bible verse here and there with a little explanations thrown in with a sprinkling of encouragement. Each lady taking on each subject in their own words with their own experiences. But as I delved deeper and deeper into the book something changed it was just like they were all three by my side cheering me on. Each one telling me to get my encouragement from up above. It was a great book to cozy up to the fire and read on a blustery fall day. As a wife and mother you look to those girlfriends you have for sanity and support and these three ladies have hit the bullseye with this book and their ministry. Each chapter runs a week long with a "Now it's Your Turn" section. "Now it's Your Turn" is a chance to reflect on what you just learned about yourself and about others. There are also prayers at the ending of each days devotional as well as a space to do some journaling. You can't lose by purchasing this book. It is an excellent Bible study to use especially if you are looking for a change from the same old dry, day to day type study, a real page turner.

If you would like to you can get a sneak peak at the first chapter here.

**Disclaimer** I received this book for free through the Blogging for Books program for my honest review.

Saturday, October 13, 2012

Review: Centered&Sane and Gratitude by Lorrie Flem


 You know being a mom is very hard work. Throw in being a stay at home mom and to homeschool your children and you are on a fast track to major BURN OUT! Can I get an amen? October's Gabby Mom's review is about being a centered and sane mom and learning how to be grateful. Grateful for what you say? Well for me there are a lot of things one is a happy and loving family. My husband works so I can stay home and homeschool our children. We have food on the table everyday. We go to a fun and loving church. Our children are healthy. The list could go on and on.
 I was reminded after hearing Lorrie's audio about a time when a friend of mine went to the altar for personal reasons and when the elder of the church came to assist her in prayer the elder asked,"What can I pray with you about?" My friend just shrugged their shoulders. Well the elder said,"Are you married?" She said,"Well yes." The elder said is there anything wrong with your marriage. She replied no. Then the elder proceeded to ask,"Do you have children?" My friend replied,"I do." The elder again asked,"Is it a problem with one of your children." My friend said,"No". The elder asked,"Is it your job situation?" And again the answer was no.

 The point to all of this is my friend really had no reason to request prayer because even though she went to the altar with a spirit of sadness and discontent what she really had was many, many reasons to be thankful. Because a lot of people are going through some pretty rough times right now it is so easy to get caught up in the woe is me mentality that we forget that sometimes. My mom had a saying you will ALWAYS meet someone that is having a harder time in life than you are having. And as time has went on and the older I get I have found that she is right. Got to love mom,right? Mom's always have words of wisdom that you can live by.
 Lorrie tells us that being grateful is something you choose to be and although it is a hard thing to achieve especially for us moms. That we need to try really hard to keep a grateful heart. Because little eyes are watching. I know I have a hard time with trying not to be sad. Lorrie told us that she also gets sad from time to time because she misses her parents. Boy, can I relate to that. I can't tell you how many times my husband and children have heard me say that I missed my parents so badly that the pain is sometimes unbearable. And they all have seen me crying my heart out to God and whoever else would listen about how much I missed them. It is so easy to get caught up in that misery and pain, isn't it?
 The Lord wants you to come to him when you lose that sense of being grateful to him for all you have and even those people that are no longer with you. I know I am thankful to him for giving me the best two parents He could of ever given. They had unconditional love for me. Something I will cherish the rest of my days. I hope and pray to measure up to the example they have set. I love my family so much and I want them to experience that kind of love from me.
 If you want to learn more about becoming a more centered and sane mom for your family and to learn more about having a grateful heart and attitude. Then this is the product for you! This product will be available November the 1st. Here is the link for that. And you can always find out more about Lorrie's products at this link.

**Disclaimer** This product was provided to me for free through the Gabby Moms Program for my unbiased review.

Review: Ramblings from the Shower by Faye Bryant



About the Book:
 Is it possible to "be who you be"?

 What does it mean to hear and follow "God's heartbeat"?

Does God really have a sense of humor?

Does He really laugh?

 From a modern day "Good Samaritan " story, through the sea of emotions accompanying a battle with melanoma, to an honest open-heart discussion of the pain of divorce, this author shares thoughts, wit and wisdom gained from her many conversations with the Lord. Along the way you will read how she found comfort and hope in knowing that God is more interested in how we worship rather than what we wear, how we treat others rather than how we might appear, and how He wants us to trust Him that He can do good in our lives, even when things look really, really bad.



About the Author:
 Faye was born in Florida and lived there until age 25 when she moved to Tennessee and has lived there ever since.
The first church Faye ever attended of her own free will was a fundamental Baptist church in Kissimmee, Florida. While she did meet Christ there, she says it was only as a Savior who wanted to redeem her soul, but who wanted to impose a ton of rules too. Now she says it's a joy to know Him as the One who loves me with a crazy, humanly incomprehensible love!
When Faye was 17, she worked at the Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World. A dream job, such fun for a teenager! Other jobs she's held include clerk in a bulk mail room for a small college, teaching assistant at a Christian school, Avon Lady, Tupperware representative, retail sales, bookkeeper and postal carrier. Her last "public" job was as data entry clerk that grew into inventory control clerk/systems admin for a convenience store chain.
While working there, God put Faye on her back -- literally. She had ruptured a disk in her back. While resting at home before surgery, and finding TV too boring for words, she started studying the Bible for myself, digging deep -- something she'd never done before. Faye says she heard God speaking to her very plainly, calling her to full-time service to Him. Funny thing was, the service He was calling her into -- the position -- it didn't exist at the time. He worked it out and she's never looked back.
In 2003, God called Faye and her husband, Jack, to join a group of others to start a new fellowship in Townsend, and thus Church of the Cove was born. She says it has been an amazing ride! 
Now Faye serves as the Ministry Assistant and Communications director for the church and also own my business working as a scopist. Just ask, she'll explain that one. Faye loves being able to work from her home office most of the time. If you would like to purchase this book you can go here.

My Review:
 Ramblings from the Shower is like a down to earth, reach you where you are at type of book. How many times have we all especially we as busy moms had ponderings or prayers or a constant conversation with God while we were in the shower? Hey the bathroom is sometimes the only place some of us can get some time to ourselves. Of course I wouldn't know anything about that. wink wink   Faye has sweetly shared with us those conversations she has had in the shower with the Almighty so that we may gain some understanding on some of the questions and thoughts even she has had about life, relationships, and even our spiritual lives.

 God is always willing to lend a helping hand or two which ever the case may be. Believe it or not we need Him and we need Him desperately. When fear takes a hold of me or even when things are going well our first thoughts should always take us back to the Father. He is our anchor. He is our soft place to fall no matter what the situation. He loves us and loves for us to run to Him.

 I was very touched by the story Faye tells us about when she mentions her very dear friend, Rich Willis, it is an amazing story of a man very confident in his faith so much so that a troubling diagnosis did not stop him from soldiering on. I don't want to spoil the book for anyone so that is all I will say. I believe Faye's main point of the whole book is getting a better more intimate relationship with the Lord. He wants us to be more in touch with Him and frankly that is the safest place to be.

 Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.



Thursday, October 11, 2012

Review: Tangled Ashes by Michele Phoenix


About the Book:
 After invading Lamorlaye, France, Nazi officials don't hesitate to take over the beautiful Meunier manor as their headquarters, hiring two young Frenchwomen, Marie Elise, who clean and launder to help supplement their families' meager incomes. But the girls begin to grow suspicious when medical equipment arrives, followed by an influx of pregnant women. As the Nazis' plans for the manor become clear, the girls must decide where their loyalties truly lie.

More than fifty years later.....

 Architect Marshall Becker arrives in Lamorlaye to begin the massive renovation of a Renaissance-era castle. The project that was meant to provide an escape for Becker instead becomes a gripping glimpse into the human drama that unfolded during the Nazi occupation and seems to live on in midnight disturbances and bizarre acts of vandalism.
 Becker explores the castle's shadowy history as he seeks to cope with the demons from his own past. Only Jade, the feisty nanny of the owner's children, is willing to stand up to him. But Becker soon discovers that every one of the chateau's inhabitants seems to have something to hide and something to protect-and something worth fighting for.



About the Author:
 Born in France to an American mother and a Canadian father, Miche'le Phoenix is an international writer with multi cultural sensitivities. A graduate of Wheaton College, she taught music, writing, and theater at a boarding school for missionaries' children that she attended as a teenager.
 She currently works for Global Outreach Mission as an advocate for "third culture kids" and helps them integrate back into North American culture. Miche'le lives in Wheaton,Illinois.

My Review:
 This book was the first one I had ever read by the author Michele Phoenix and it was a distinct change from my favorite genre of Amish fiction but it was a nice change overall. It is one of those novels that switches back and forth between two moments in time. One being modern day and the other time frame being set in the early 1940's. It is a look back to the World War II time period and the connection from that time to the modern day through this castle that is located in France. Upon reading this novel I actually forgot about France's involvement in the war and as far as I know did not have any loyalty to the Germans. But as we all know now that the German's and Adolf Hitler didn't really care if you were loyal to them or not. They tended to take over where they had felt weaknesses lie. So as to what happened in this book. This novel starts out with one of the housekeeper slash nursemaid Marie, trying to escape with a baby and trying her best not to get caught. Because as we all know to betray the Reich could most likely bring serious consequences.

 And then the author brings us back to modern day to a gentleman named Becker that has demons of his own that turn out to be a big fight that he has to conquer over and over again on a daily basis. Becker, an American architect, that gets a huge job over in France to restore a turn of the century old castle. He begrudgingly accepts the job if for nothing else but to have a change of scenery. But the nightmares that he has nightly manage to follow him to France and his lack of sleep and rest continue. But as he soon discovers that is when the castle's old ghosts tend to awaken also. And pretty soon Becker finds his curiosity is peaked so much so that he starts investigating the sounds he has been hearing and he starts to find all that this castle is hiding. Then enters Jade, the nanny, at first she seems harmless and they both seem to have an interest in each other. But he soon finds out she is also hiding something.

 The book keeps bouncing back and forth between 1940 and modern day with the whole cast of characters each with a secret. Whether it is the other nursemaid in the 1940 time frame Elise or Mr. Fallon and his wife. It will keep you guessing to the very end.


 If you want to learn more about Michele Phoenix you can visit her website here. If you are interested in buying the book you can go here.


**Disclaimer** I received this book for free for my honest review through Handlebar Publishing.



Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Review: Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce & Giveaway



About the Product:
  In 1968 Country Bob perfected the sauce of his dreams. After years of giving the sauce to friends and family he began to sell it in 1977. The reaction was overwhelming just as it is today. Almost everyone who tries Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce becomes a lifelong user. And why not, it is the perfect complement to practically any meal set on your table.
It was actually October of 1982 when Country Bob, Inc. became the company, which remains today. Bob Edson, Terry Edson, Al Malekovic and Reed Malekovic formed a corporation with equal ownership. Since that time Country Bob's distribution has magnified regionally in all directions from our corporate office located in Centralia, Illinois. Even with the tremendous growth we have not forgotten where we came from, continuing in our relentless pursuit of product excellence.
Along with our All Purpose Sauce we have expanded our product line to include BBQ Sauce and Seasoning Salt as well as Apple Chipotle and Honey Habanero All Purpose Sauce. With our fully automated bottling line we also have the capability of producing Private Label products for stores or restaurants.
It would be nice if we could claim responsibility for the success of the company, however, credit must be given where credit is due. Proverbs 16:3 says, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." We have placed true ownership of Country Bob, Inc. in the hands of God. "Christ is our CEO" and He is an Awesome Boss!

My Review:
 Whether you want to liven up your steak, your chicken or your pork this is the best sauce to do it. It is a lovely combination of sweet and savory that just hits the spot. I had never heard of Country Bob's until recently and never had the opportunity to try it and try it I did. I tried it on everything even potatoes it was surprisingly good. So whether it is meat or a veggie it didn't matter just yummy goodness! Not sure you can find Country Bob's products in a store near you they have a store locater on their website here and of course you can always order online.

 I love the fact that the business owners and creators are not afraid to share the love of Jesus Christ and how all of the success of this company is due to Him. That is a company that I'm not afraid to stand behind. Here is the link to the product I tried. They also have a cookbook you can purchase. But on their website there are recipes you can try so you don't have to wait to buy the book. That link is here. This is a very lively, family friendly company they even have giveaways all the time on their facebook page here.

 And because they believe in their product so much they are willing to giveaway 4 bottles of their All Purpose Sauce to my readers for you to try. So that means 2 winners will receive 2 bottles each. You really need this sauce for all that tailgating you will be doing, don't ya? Now join in on the fun. Come on you know you want too! Enter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**Disclaimer** This product for provided to me for free for my honest review from my sponsor.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Review: Tropical Traditions Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil & Giveaway

Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil - 32 oz.Win 1 quart of Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil!
Tropical Traditions is America’s source for coconut oil. Their Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil is hand crafted in small batches by family producers, and it is the highest quality coconut oil they offer. You can read more about how virgin coconut oil is different from other coconut oils on their website: What is Virgin Coconut Oil?

Tropical Traditions also carries other varieties of affordable high quality coconut oil. Visit their website to check on current sales, to learn about the many uses of coconut oil, and to read about all the advantages of buying coconut oil online. Since the FDA does not want us to discuss the health benefits of coconut oil on a page where it is being sold or given away, here is the best website to read about the health benefits of coconut oil.


 Just recently I read about the many things you can do with coconut oil and it is amazing. My teenager is currently had a time of it trying to get rid of her acne. We have tried everything and spent hundreds of dollars trying to get it to at least clear up some. I told her not to expect it to be completely clear but that it should eliminate most of it. And guess what? The results were AWESOME she was incredibly over joyed. It didn't take it all away but it cleared it up a lot. It really is an amazing product. We took the advice of another blogger and proceeded to wash her face with her regular cleanser and then used the oil as a moisturizer and TA DA the results were miraculous.


 I had the chance to try this wonderful product through Tropical Traditions. This is a great website that sells many things this is only one of many good, clean, organic products.This is a link to their home page. This on line source is a virtual health food store. Tropical Traditions is a great place to familiarize yourself with products that are good for you and your overall health. The link to the virgin coconut oil I tried is here.

 Tropical Traditions would like to give my readers out there a free 32oz. jar of their Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil. To enter just follow the directions in the rafflecopter below: a Rafflecopter giveaway




**Disclaimer** Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.  


 

Monday, October 1, 2012

Review:Share the Bounty by Benita Long


About the Book:
 When people come into your home, what do they see? Have you prepared for their visit? Are your gatherings imbued with the sweet spirit of charity? Whether you're celebrating a joyous occasion with your dearest friends and family, welcoming overnight guests, or comforting someone in need, your home can be a sanctuary of Christian fellowship. Discover the scriptural basis for hospitality through this compilation of menus, each designed to complement life's more important occasions with the people you cherish.

 Beautifully photographed and styled, Share the Bounty will inspire you to open your home and reflect God's grace to all who sit at your table. Serve Grilled Chicken & Wild Rice Salad with Coffee Mousse at a casual luncheon for your closet friends. Usher the new neighbors into your dining room for an elegant dinner of Sunday Rib Roast, or greet your out-of-town guests with Blueberry Peach Coffee Cake on their first morning in your home. Broaden your family's understanding of other cultures with Pollo San Miguel, a meal that reflects the flavors of another country. Scattered among the recipes is a selection of Scriptures, prayers and poetry that will focus your heart on praise and thanksgiving as you prepare to share with others his provision in your home.


My Review:
 I was really amazed at the beauty contained in this book. Not only are there recipes, prayers, scriptures from the Bible in this book but some of the best pictures I have seen in quite a long time. The author wants our home to reflect God. And she goes about showing you how to do just that. Even if you decide not to use this in the kitchen because you are afraid to mess up the pages it would make a great coffee table book. The book is large in diameter so it would be a perfect book for that purpose. The author has even went to the extra trouble of providing menus to go along with the recipes she has included therein.

 If you like to entertain and are looking for some inspiration than this is the book for you. Benita Long has went about and paired together some tasty fixings for anyone's tastes. She has included menus for several different types of meals for example: luncheons, festive occasions, international cuisine, and house guests. And to go right along with any meal you need a prayer or like we say in our home a blessin'. Benita also included some of those. This book has the perfect balance of Christian hospitality meets the harried homemaker. It crosses the divide and brings us to a place of beautiful simplicity. This book will NOT leave you disappointed.

**Disclaimer** This book was provided to me through the Booksneeze Blogger Program for free for my honest, unbiased opinion.
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