Review:Ministering To Your Minister by: Daniel Overdorf

About the Book:
 Many ministers have seen, felt, and tasted the warmth and love of churches who care for their ministers-bills secretly paid, bags of groceries left anonymously on the front porch, gift certificates arriving in the mailbox, and bags of homegrown tomatoes and green beans left on their desks. More significant are the prayers, support, and even the accountability given by the church community. Ministering to Your Minister describes eight affirmations churches should speak frequently and act on consistently to support their ministers. These chapters include numerous practical ideas and suggestions so that, by the time we reach the final page, we will find ourselves better equipped and more excited about ministering to our ministers.

About the Author:
 After ministering for ten years with churches in Illinois and Georgia, in 2005 Daniel Overdorf joined the faculty of Johnson University in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he serves as Dean of the School of Congregational Ministry and as Professor of Preaching. He holds degrees from Johnson University, Lincoln Christian University, and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.




My Review:
 I had never heard of Daniel Overdorf until I read this book. But he comes across as a very loving and humble servant of the Lord. In this book by Mr. Overdorf he tells us that our ministers need our support; not just financially, but through words and acts of encouragement. He proceeds to tell various stories he has himself encountered or heard. And also relates a lot of those to the Bible and how various prophets and apostles usually would have a person in their corner ready to help face this world as an encourager of the faith.

 He reminds us  of  the story of Moses holding up his staff to aid the Israelites in battle. And how as long as he held his arms up they were on the winning side but if he got tired and his arms would fall they would begin to lose. But not long into this story Aaron and Hur rushed to his aid to hold his arms up. I had never thought about how that story could relate to this subject but it most certainly does.

We were also reminded of the story of Mark and how it seemed he faltered on his first missionary trip with Paul and ended up backing out at the last moment. But good old Barnabas was able to nudge him in the right direction when another chance came up after Paul decided that Mark had, had his last chance. Because of Barnabas' encouragement Mark went on to do many great things such as compile his notes into the book of Mark.

 The minister of your church needs your love and support. Bottom line, he can perform his duties better if he knows we have his back. The author was trying to convey in several of the stories contained within the pages of this useful resource that it really helps to have encouragement from those around you. Don't try to get your minister to "measure up". Try to be as helpful and honorable as you can be. Praying for them is a great way to start the relationship with your minister off on the right foot.

If you would like to purchase this book you can do so at this link.



  Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Review: Saying YES! To Saying NO by:Christy Baca

About the Book:
 "Saying Yes! to Saying No, moved me to being convicted of how calloused I had become to the influences in our world today, and yet I felt challenged to take a stand against those same influences for my sons. If you have children or grandchildren, you will want to teach them to "Say No" when it counts, and this book will give you the tools to start now!"
-Ryan Knight, D.C.
Sex is going to become a part of everyone's life at some point. Are you one of the 90% of parents who wish they knew what to say when it came to talking to your son or daughter about sex? Saying Yes! to Saying No will equip you with scripture, and communication tools to give you confidence to become the parent who is meeting the needs of the 87% of teens who say it would be easier to maintain a sexually pure lifestyle if their parents would have open conversations with them about sex. Saying Yes! to Saying No addresses issues like sexting, pornography, boundaries in dating, and much more. Saying Yes! to Saying No will give you tools to start developing the conversation of sexual intimacy from age three, building on that conversation through your son or daughter's young adult years.
Powerful Scriptures are placed in each chapter to remind you of the promises God has given you as a parent.

 About the Author:
 Christy holds a teaching degree from Texas A&M.  She has taught abstinence education for 9 years in public schools, private schools and youth groups. Christy teaches from the perspective of a real mom living in a real world.  Her communication is filled with truth, delivered with energy, warmth and grace. She lives in North Texas with her husband, David, of seventeen years and their two teenage daughters. When Christy is not speaking or writing she can be found in the kitchen, at the Architect’s office keeping books, at a basketball/soccer game, choir concert, football game watching her favorite hi-stepper dance or with her friends.  

My Review:
 The world that we are living in is not the same as it was 10 years ago much less 20 years ago when I just happen to be a teenager. The advancement in technology has made our lives and the lives of our children blessed in many ways and in many ways has become a curse. With this advancement evil has been thrust into the spotlight alot more than it ever was before. So as parents it is our job to equip them with the information they need to step into this world and in sense prepare them for battle.

The author a mom herself has been teaching children about abstinence for many years and has also been trying to teach parents how to prepare their children in a world filled with everything pointing to sex and instant gratification. She has tirelessly researched for her readers all possible venues out there that we should know about and be on the look out for. Her bottom line is put all you can into your children and help them to see the bigger picture here. They are apt to hurt themselves in more ways than one. When they reach a certain age it is up to them to use their parents teachings to protect themselves.

Christy Baca is telling the world what she already knows and has taught her children. By teaching them abstinence we give them the key to a better future marriage and a better life the way God intended.

**Disclosure** This book was given to me for my honest review from the author.

Review: Parenting On Your Knees by:Vicki Tiede

About the Book:
Strap on your sense of humor and don some knee pads as you prepare to be equipped for/by Parenting on Your Knees: Prayers and Practical Guidance for the Preschool Years. Vicki Tiede provides parents of preschoolers tools and strategies for parenting and praying when sleep and alone time are at a minimum. You will find hope and encouragement to nurture and pray for your child’s character, behavior, social skills, development, and spiritual growth.



About the Author:

 Vicki Tiede, MEd, MMin, is a Bible teacher; conference speaker; author of When Your Husband is Addicted to Pornography: Healing Your Wounded Heart (2012) and Plug Me In and Let Me Charge Overnight (2009). Her passion is to share God’s grace and faithfulness with women through the Scriptures. Vicki transparently relates life experiences that resonate and draw others into a lifelong pursuit of knowing God. Living in Rochester, Minnesota, Vicki is also a wife, homeschooling mom, and women’s ministries coordinator at her local church.

My Review:
 These days I don't know of any other way of getting through your children's childhood without being on your knees. I just happen to be a mom of 4 children and let me tell you from experience parenting doesn't get any easier the older I get or the older my children get. I love them to pieces but I tell you that being a mom is the hardest and most labor intensive job I have ever or will ever have. I have spent many days in constant prayer for my children and the people that have to endure their wrath. The people meaning "me". I have also been the mom to hide in the bathroom to get a moments peace.

 Vicki Tiede has given us an encouraging devotional of sorts that is quick and uplifting. Perfect for those parents who don't have a lot of time because of those little preschoolers or even toddlers running around. She explains that we can always have a devotional time with the Lord that doesn't involve sitting and being quiet and actually getting to read your Bible and sipping on coffee. Why would we need that? Because when you have children that are between the ages of 1-5 you barely have time to breath much less read.

 So we can come to God in many different ways listening to worship music, talking to Him throughout the day, placing scriptures on post-its throughout our homes to meditate on. The sky's the limit! Now there is something Vicki mentions in her book that you can do and I didn't realize I had been doing it in all my 15 years of parenting my kiddos and that is "arrow prayers". Arrow prayers are those tiny little prayers that are packed with a punch that you speak out to God throughout the day. The Lord please help me with this very impatient child or the Lord please help potty training to go smoother for my little one today type prayers. She helps you with scriptures placed throughout the book along with prayers and an even better little detail a section after each chapter for answered prayer.

We all struggle to get through those early years with our brains intact. With God's enabling and Vicki's encouraging book you will be on the right track in no time.

**Disclosure**This book was provided to me for free through Cross Focused Reviews for my unbiased review.

Review: Diary of the Lost Teen Age by:Tony Gaines

About the Book:
 After surviving an attempted suicide, Tom Jones, a shy Christian adolescent, learns to use writing in his diary as a means of communicating with himself as his family settles in on a new life in West Texas. High school football in Texas seems to be the states' unofficial religion, yet it's the emerging of television, “the new God,” that starts to have a stronghold in shaping Tom’s newly found pop culture world of the 1970’s. "The Game" begins when star quarterback Reggie Thomas moves in across the street and takes Tom under his wing, tutoring Tom on the road to the end of innocence. Will the duo score on a last ditch drive to escape with their souls intact, or will they find out how easy it is to get lost in the forbidding world of sex, drugs, and rock and roll? Just as the Stone Age and Ice Age were both lost to history, Tom’s diary journals how the Teen Age somehow got lost in history as this page-turner continues to unfold masterfully, sure to leave readers laughing at the anecdotes on an unforgettable journey down memory lane.

About the Author:
 TONY GAINES wrote his first short story in the second grade after the teacher assigned the class to read “The tale of Peter Rabbit” and by the age of twelve he was firmly hooked on writing in a diary regularly. He’s lived all over the world including three continents and now resides in Colorado. Having held jobs as a produce manger, a postal carrier, and a nuclear weapons specialist on foreign soil, Tony uses these experiences, as well as his natural ability for creativity with pen and ink to share stories about the human condition in his debut novel. “After all,” he says, “we’re only human beings on a spiritual journey searching for things the eyes have yet seen.”

My Review:
 This book was some what surprising in the way that a child touches a stove not expecting to be burned by it.And I don't mean that in a negative way just in a surprising one. I really didn't expect the life of the main character in this book to be so intriguing and yet identifiable. Tom didn't have the life of all teenagers in his time. But he did have the life of many of them. He grew up in a time filled with gratification by means of everything that was against the rules. I was surprised about how it ended and yet heartbroken for him. From the very beginning I was rooting for Tom hoping that by the end he would change his mind about the Lord. Thankfully I did not model the same life I read about in this book, this book that was written in diary entry form.
 Mr. Gaines has done a really good job of conveying how the main character felt and survived the tumultuous years of his youth. It was a very thought provoking book and very different from the ones I normally review.
I will say just a little warning here that this book is PG-13 but beyond that the author do a really good job. A good job trying to get the readers out there to understand the mischief and care free attitude that was Tom Jones.

**Disclosure** This book was provided to me for free for my unbiased and honest review from the author.

A BIG Announcement

Celebrate with Tricia and Ocieanna by entering their "Glacier Bay" Giveaway and RSVPing for their Facebook Party on Feb. 12th!

One fortunate winner will receive:

• A gorgeous handmade “Glacier Bay” bracelet
• A handmade cowl in "Glacier Bay" blues and greens
• A bottle of custom-made "Glacier Bay" sparkle polish in blue
• Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss and their two other “Love Finds You” titles {Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie, Montana, and Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington}

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on February 11th. Winner will be announced at the "Glacier Bay" Author Chat Party on February 12th. Connect with authors Tricia and Ocieanna, get a sneak peek of their new book projects, try your hand at the Alaska trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be great giveaways—gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska, and join Tricia and Ocieanna on the evening of February 12th for a chance to connect with the authors and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 12th!

Review: Helping Hands at Home by: Lorrie Flem

This months Gabby Mom review is an excellent resource for all of you mom's out there that could use some helping hands with some household chores around the house. Lorrie tells us how to go about teaching our little ones how to be more helpful around the house. By teaching them how to clean the two biggest messiest rooms in the house we have actually handed them the keys to the kingdom. one of Lorrie's biggest teaching tools, I believe is that if you do just a little bit each day your chore won't seem like such a big ordeal to get your children to accomplish.
 So she takes each room and breaks them down and shows you how to set this whole idea into motion so that your children are helping around the house and are also learning responsibility. My children have been cleaning the bathrooms and the kitchen in our home for awhile now. And alot of the things that Lorrie point out and some of her tips are something we already do in our house. So I can tell you from experience the tips and tricks she gives you make absolute sense and will work in your home.

 But remember mom above all have patience and perseverance with your little ones. They will probably not get it exactly the way you want it until they have been at it awhile. So hang in there and soon you will have handy little helpers ready to move in and get things done. If you would like to purchase your own copy of the kindle version of this book you can do so at this link and it is available for .99. So it is very affordable and worth every penny. And as always if you are curious about Lorrie's other products you can hop on over to her website to take a look.

**Disclosure** I was provided a free copy of this product for review purposes through the Gabby Moms Program.

Review: What the Amish Can Teach Us About the Simple Life

About the Book:
Emphasizing Amish values of faith and simplicity, author Georgia Varozza offers fresh ideas to make serenity and healthy living a stronger presence in your life. You'll discover qualities and ways of doing things that will enable you to slow down, live simply, and enjoy all the blessings God gives.

Drawing on her family's roots, Georgia provides easy-to-follow steps to help you:



Create a faith-centered, family oriented home

Make homemade products, including laundry soap, lip balm, and gardening supplies

Discover how to grow your own food even if space is limited

Simplify your life by taking control of technology

Generate less waste by repurposing, reusing, and recycling

Whether you want to make a few simple changes or fully embrace a more wholesome lifestyle, this book is packed with practical suggestions and loads of encouragement.

About the Author:
Georgia Varozza, author of The Homestyle Amish Kitchen Cookbook (nearly 50,000 copies sold), is a certified master food preserver. She teaches people how to prepare and preserve healthy foods; live simply with integrity, and get the most from what they have. She works in publishing and lives in a small Oregon community. Georgia loves being with her kids and grandkids and enjoys cooking, spinning, and knitting. Visit Georgia at www.georgiaplainandsimple.blogspot.com.

My Review:
I have a family that is a tad bit bigger than average. I have 4 children, three of which are boys-growing boys. And as many people will tell you boys will eat you at of house and home. I am witness to the fact that they are 100% correct in that statement. My boys ages 10, 7, and 2 eat a lot. I mean massive amounts of food which I'm certain will get to be more than that in the coming years when they grow into teenagers.

Well this brings me to my next point with the current state of the economy it has been harder to feed these children, not so much our daughter that eats like a bird  but our sons. So my husband and I have been coming up with ways to cut down on everything so we can get more food for our family. For years now I have made my own laundry detergent and just recently I started making homemade bread. The laundry detergent for obvious reasons but the bread cost was outlandishly high in the grocery store at $1.40 a loaf times anywhere from 4-8 loaves a week. So since it was a food that my family did not want to live without I had to find a cheaper way. We have been gardening and raising our own chickens and now meat rabbits. But we feel there is always more to learn.

We believe that is why we are drawn to the Amish lifestyle not so much all of the rules that they abide by that we do certainly respect but the simple life they lead and the way they value God and family. The author has took some of the most simple things and included them in this book so that we all may lead a similar simple existence. The author has done a great job of including so many things in this book to help us. This book is a great resource to have for such times like these. Georgia has given us many more things to think about and learn. I'm going to try her recipe for dish soap and we plan to implement a compost pile. I think she is right when we get back to the simple ways of doing things we get closer to what God intended for us all.

**Disclosure** I received this book for free from Harvest House Publishers for my honest review.

Review: kidsandjeans.com

My Review:
 I had the chance recently to review this awesome website that offers kids jeans at rock bottom prices. Yes,please! I was sent to try a pair of their gently used jeans. I was very pleased to find they are as the site states in very good like new shape. They had no stains and were in perfect shape as you can see by the pictures below. My little boy was very happy and I being a mom of four I was very thrilled. I buy a lot of used clothing and I can tell you from experience the older they get the harder it is to find good clothing at even better pricing. kidsandjeans.com is an online thrift store that has many benefits.

Here are some pictures of the jeans I received and my munchkin modeling them.

To accommodate a variety of shoppers and budgets, we offer a 'new' section as well as a great section of 'gently used' kids jeans.

They have a $10 Or Less section.

They have all types of jeans sized toddler to teen.

They also have a one-of-a-kind section for jeans that have been customized.

And if you sign up pr register an account with them you can get exclusive deals, discounts and updates delivered right to your inbox.

Here is a little bit more about this great company:
KidsAndJeans.com was started in 2009 when a mother of three (now four!) became frustrated that she couldn't find a website solely dedicated to selling children's jeans. 
Since there are a variety of shoppers and budgets this website includes pre-owned jeans as well as designer new jeans.  Only those pre-owned jeans that are in excellent condition are selected as products for this site. 
Because no one likes surprise shipping costs at checkout, it costs just $5.95 to ship all U.S. orders.


**Disclosure** I received this product for free from the website owner above for my honest review.





  

Something to Pass the Time....

 Winter is not a real fun time for us here in Alabama. While we don't really get snow that often we still have 30 degree weather. And even though I HATE the humidity here I really hate the freezing weather. So to pass the time in January I usually get my boys to do some fun unit studies that are not related to anything school-y. Is that a word? Anyway, I won a giveaway recently for a Super Hero Unit Study recently from Enchanted Homeschooling Mom. The boys were begging to do this one so it went on our January list of extras. Below you will see the work that they done on it. Here is the link to the Super Hero Activity Unit in case you would like to get it for your child link.

These are the comic books that they made. I knew they would enjoy those. And below are some of the crossword puzzles that were included in the Unit.

**Disclosure** I received the product for free in a giveaway.

Review: Unglued Devotional by:Lysa TerKeurst

About the Book:
Lysa TerKeurst, like most women, has experiences when others irritate, disappoint, criticize, or do other things that bump into her happy. We come emotionally unglued as we stuff, explode, or react somewhere in between. Is it really possible to make emotions work for us instead of against us?

In this companion devotional, Lysa builds on the teaching from the bestselling book Unglued to encourage more peace and calm in your relationships. During this 60-day journey you will:

Live in the grace of making imperfect progress even on those days when your emotions throw you for a loop.
Be a more positive role model to your family and coworkers as you shift from overreacting to speaking life-giving words.
Know with confidence how to resolve conflict in your closest relationships.

Including a daily opening Scripture, thought for the day, devotion, and closing prayer, this book will help you make progress in how you react to break the cycle of exploding or stuffing your emotions.

About the Author:
Lysa TerKeurst is a New York Times bestselling author and national speaker who helps everyday women live an adventure of faith. She is the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, author of 15 books, and encourages nearly 500,000 women worldwide through a daily online devotional. Her remarkable life story has captured audiences across America, including appearances on Oprah and Good Morning America. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and five children.

My Review:
 First thought that comes to mind about Lysa... FIRECRACKER. She is so stinking funny about life's little ups and downs. You will hear alot of yourself in this nice and neat little devotional. Lysa practically sucks you into her life. But I believe the reason it fits so well is it mirrors alot of ours. I really enjoyed it especially her thoughts on a particular mothers confrontation about Lysa not inviting her daughter to Lysa's birthday party. Hilarious!

 The author leads you on a day by day trip to meet with your Savior and shows you that day after day you will survive as long as you lean on Him. By trusting in Him you can have the peace that your soul and body long for. Without Him you are pretty much doomed to fail. At the end of each devotion there is a prayer for you to recite to help with whatever that devotion discussed on that particular day. And she leads each one with a thought for the day-- something for you to focus on. I love it so much I gave it to my daughter to read too. The author is funny and sassy and she makes you feel better knowing that we all are having the same difficulties. We just need to go to the Father and let Him tote them for awhile.

**Disclosure** This book was provided to me for free through Zondervan for my honest review.

Review:Abel's Field DVD

About the Product:
 Left motherless by tragedy and abandoned by his father, high school senior Seth McArdle (Samuel Davis) faces enormous pressure as he strives to support his little sisters. At school, he endures the daily bullying of the football team. But fighting back only finds him singled out for punishment and assigned to an after-school work detail under the supervision of the reserved groundskeeper, Abel (SOUL SURFER’S Kevin Sorbo). Much to his surprise, Seth discovers that Abel may be the only one who truly understands his struggles. As dark times lure Seth toward desperate measures, the reluctant Abel may be the one person who can point him back toward the light.

My Review:
 My family and I sat down a few nights ago to watch this movie and we all really enjoyed it. It is about an older teenage boy;Seth, that is basically left to raise and care for his two younger sisters when his mother passes away and his father decides to leave and never return. It had a Remember the Titans kinda feel to me. I love these types of movies that have that down home kind of feeling. Kevin Sorbo plays Abel the high school janitor/groundskeeper that in the end becomes a mentor of sorts to the young boy.

 Seth is wondering during the whole movie why all these bad things keep happening to him and his sisters. While his minister and Abel (Kevin Sorbo) keep asking him if he has talked to God about it. This is a very good family movie and was very touching. We shed a few tears over it. If you would like to learn more about the movie you can here.  My sponsor Flyby promotions would like to offer my readers a chance to win a copy of this DVD. Enter below and Good luck!

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"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 Eldridge

About the Book:
What a relief it would be to be set free from all that plagues us -- the inner struggle with anger, or contempt, the habitual sins. Is such an experience possible? John Eldredge believes it is, and in THE UTTER RELIEF OF HOLINESS, he shows readers how they can be that free, through the healing work of Christ in their lives. It begins when we discover what the salvation of Jesus Christ means for our own restoration and find that holiness is an expression of the healing of our humanity.

Here is a book that explores the beauty of the genuine goodness available to us in Jesus Christ, and guides the reader through the process whereby God makes us whole and holy by his love. Readers will be relieved.

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. To learn more about the author please visit his website. You may also want to pay him a visit on Facebook or Twitter

My Review: 
 The closer you are to God the closer you are to reaching a somewhat unattainable goal, right? John Eldridge instructs us on how to reach something that seems as if a mountain to most. How are we ever going to be even close to what Jesus was. The author tries to get us past what "others" may say is true Holiness. After all there were a lot of instances where people would lie to help followers of God. Was that wrong? What about when certain people in the Bible would strike the nerve of Jesus and Jesus would get very angry at them?

 Is it wrong if we get angry with people that use God in the wrong way or portray Jesus in the wrong light? Are we going to hell for such things? I think the best we can do in most instances is to stand for what is right and honorable to God the best way we can. Read the Bible, follow His teachings, and pray. One of the main things a lot of us should try working on is asking God before we do things. You know get His point of view. Alot of times he will let you know if it is of Him or not.

Jesus' bottom line was LOVE. And even though most people wouldn't feel love for their neighbor He always did. Why? Because He wouldn't give in to that feeling that we all have from time to time. The feeling of how does this person make me feel. He found a way to look past all of that straight to their heart. We all say and do things on a daily basis, things we wished we hadn't said. Thank God He looks past all of that straight to our hearts and knows we don't mean most of it. For where would we be if that wasn't the case?

My sponsor would like to give one of you lucky readers a copy of this enlightening book. Enter below.




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**Disclosure** This book was given to me for free for my honest review through Flyby Promotions.

 "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: Etched Upon My Heart by: Jill Kelly

About the Book:
Every Christian parent today wrestles with the challenge of how to raise kids in a God-honoring, morally sound way.
In ETCHED . . . UPON MY HEART, Jill Kelly offers up the unforgettable episodes of her life-some sorrowful, others filled with joy-as a "living epistle" to her daughters.
For the many other Christian mothers who also long to pass on their hard-won knowledge of God's steadfast love and healing grace to their children, Kelly's down-to-earth reflections provide an inspiring example.

As she writes, "God will break our hearts, but He will hold the pieces. He will cradle us and redeem every tear we cry."
Although great personal pain-her young son Hunter's death,
her husband's infidelity-informs these pages, Kelly's story is ultimately one of forgiveness, reconciliation, and hope.
Through the moments in time that Jill Kelly recounts, readers will recognize the daily reality and eternal value of God's plan for their own lives.

 About the Author: 
 Jill Kelly is the wife of former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly. In September 1997, months after their infant son, Hunter, was diagnosed with a fatal disease called Krabbe Leukodustrophy, Jim and Jill founded the Hunter’s Hope Foundation. As chairman of the board of Hunter’s Hope, Jill helps children suffering from Leukodystrophy, and their families by raising awareness and research funds to fight this devastating disease. She and Jim live in Buffalo, NY, with their two daughters and three dogs. Hunter’s Hope Foundation can be found online at www.HuntersHope.org. Jill is also the author of Without A Word. 

My Review:
 I really enjoyed this one. Jill Kelly shares with us the trials and triumphs she has endured and overcome in her life. This book dedicated to her girls outline some of the mistakes she felt she has made with a coating of sugar flavored love she felt being their mom. Jill never claims that she has had it "right" all along instead she shows us deep into the heart of a fellow mom,sister, wife, mother, daughter and Christian. Deep into the very depths of her soul, showing us how we should all come to God with all of our faults so that He can enable us to the great mountain peaks He wants us to reach for without Him our lives are without purpose.

 God brought Jill through the trenches of indifference and heart ache over to the  other side so that she can show other women that we are NOT superwoman and that the cracks that we have were put there so that God could make us perfect.

My wonderful sponsors would like to give one of you lucky readers a copy of this book for your very own. Just enter below. Good luck!

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**Disclosure** This book was provided to me for free for my honest review by Propeller and Fly By Promotions.  

Review: Everything Christmas by:David Bordon&Tom Winters

About the Book:

Christmas is a time of celebration and wonder, a time to embrace longstanding traditions and establish new ones. It’s a time for meals made of memories and heartwarming stories shared around the fireplace. It’s a time for worship, reflection, and remembrance of God’s greatest gift.

Everything Christmas brings all the best ideas for the holiday season together in one volume. In this book, you’ll find your favorite classic Christmas stories and a few new ones destined to join them. You’ll discover the most delectable holiday recipes, enjoy the words to treasured hymns and carols, be encouraged by inspirational Christmas poems, and find renewed joy in the Nativity story. From decoration ideas to Christmas trivia and humor – it’s all here!

About the Authors:
 David Bordon is a partner with Tom Winters in Bordon-Winters, LLC, a book concept and packaging company that  produces successful books and gift products. Together, they have written previous titles that include the 101 Things You Should Do series, especially the popular 101 Things You Should Do Before Going to Heaven.
Tom Winters is a partner with David Bordon in Bordon-Winters, LLC, a book concept and packaging company that  produces successful books and gift products. Their previous titles include the 101 Things You Should Do series, especially the popular 101 Things You Should Do Before Going to Heaven.

My Review:
This book will remain on our bookshelf for many years too come. Not only does it have a beautiful cover what abounds in it is even more special. The authors of this Christmas book have done an excellent job of taking things from all over the world and throughout time and combining them in one simple bound book to enjoy. The purchasing of it will be the best thing you ever did. It will instantly become an old time family favorite.
Upon opening the book for find many time honored treasuries of stories, hymns&songs, recipes, gift giving ideas, and decoration ideas also. My family and I really enjoyed through the pages and reading the classic stories. We love reading things from yesteryear that teach us how to value friendships, family and God's many blessings. You can read an excerpt here.

**Disclosure** This book was given to me for free for my honest review through the Blogging Through Books program provided by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.
 

Review:Explore Yosemite&Zion National Parks w/ Noah Justice DVD

 About the Product:
 The first DVD series for teens by teens showing how science & the Bible agree!

• Hosted by the engaging 14-year-old host, Noah Justice
• Evidence of biblical history and truth at some of the world’s most amazing destinations
• Fast-paced and informative presentations with a biblical worldview are filmed on location at these national parks
• Study guides create educational opportunities for home or church study

The Awesome Science video series takes teens and adults on a field trip around the world to explore geologic and historical evidence which supports the biblical record. Innovative, high-quality, and designed to make science fun, this new series for the whole family helps discover evidences that the Bible is the true history book of the world!

About the Producer:
 The Awesome Science series is brought to you by Kyle Justice, the same producer of the “X-Nilo Show” and “The Creation Network.” His work has appeared on such networks as National Geographic, ESPN, and The Outdoor Channel. A true family project, Awesome Science is brought to you by 14-year-old host Noah Justice, producer and father Kyle Justice, and younger brother Jeremiah Justice who helps with video editing and their website.

My Review:
Noah and his Dad Kyle have put together a virtual field trip on DVD for your viewing pleasure. The one I was asked to review was all about Yosemite and Zion National Parks. Yosemite National Park is located within Sierra Nevada mountain range in eastern California. Best known for its waterfalls and spectacular mountain views and cliffs. Zion National Park is located in Colorado and its best feature is Zion Canyon. It is a breath taking site. My family will never get the chance to travel that far to see either of the magnificent landmarks.

But the Justice family continues to produce quality DVDs based on God's word for us all to enjoy. You may also download a copy of the study guide to go along with this science DVD or download it for free. We used this as a source of curriculum not along with anything else. Just this alone. And as far as delight directed homeschooling goes this fits in pretty well.

The Justice family has also produced many other DVDs you maybe interested in such as fossil beds,meteor crater&petrified forest,Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Mt. St Helen's. Master Books has got you covered on on anything creation science based. They have beautiful books that are essential to any homeschool library or home library.

**Disclosure** This product was provided to me for free for my honest review by New Leaf Publishing Group.

No More Perfect Homes

 There she is the epitome of the 1950's housewife. You know the one with the perfect hair, the perfect make up. The one with the perfect spotless apron that never gets dirty. She seems to have it all together. She and her husband get their family ready for church each week. They are all perfectly dressed and her children are sweet, polite and have very good manners.

 The trouble with all of this is if we have perfect homes that never seem to have a problem in this crazy world of ours. How is God ever going to be able to help us? How is He ever going to be able to rescue us? How is He ever going to be able to enable us to accomplish the things He has preplanned for us to do for Him?

 Without God's help and without God's sustaining power our homes will NEVER be perfect to us. That is why God wants us to rely solely on Him.

photo provided by Irene Hannestad

The awesome thing about our wonderful Father is He wants to be a part of Him warts and all. Sometimes I think the more imperfect we are the better. He loves to show off and show all the doubters out there what He can do and who He can change. I'm just grateful knowing that among my many failings He has never and will never give up on me.

T.R.I.P. Reading Program Update #1

 We have been chugging away through our first week of using the T.R.I.P. reading program. The changes have been slow and gradual but I believe that is a good thing. I want it to be something that sticks in his mind. When he first started doing the word list that he says aloud to me had just a few mistakes almost like he was reading it too quickly. But now it is beginning to be less and less.

T.R.I.P. is actually a shortened way of saying a Targeted Reading Improvement program and has been around for more than 30 years. And has actually been used in a reading center established by Dr. Muriel E. Bruno in 1961. If you live in Orange county California you have the unique opportunity to visit The Reading Center yourself and take advantage of the T.R.I.P. reading program from certified instructors. But if you don't have that option. You can read more about this reading program here. But if you are not that lucky you can always go to their website and order their DVD to use in your own home.

Stay tuned for more updates...........

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.

Review: Praying Circles Around Your Children by:Mark Batterson

About the Book:
 Mark Batterson shares a perfect blend of biblical yet practical advice that will revolutionize your prayer life by giving you a new vocabulary and a new methodology. You’ll see how prayer is your secret weapon. Through stories of parents just like you, Batterson shares five prayer circles that will not only help you pray for your kids, but also pray through your kids.
Batterson teaches about how to create prayer lists unique to your family, claim God-inspired promises for your children, turn your family circle into a prayer circle, and discover your child’s life themes. And he not only tells you how, he illustrates why.
As Batterson says, “I realize that not everyone inherited a prayer legacy like I did, but you can leave a legacy for generations to come. Your prayers have the power to shape the destiny of your children and your children’s children. It’s time to start circling.”

About the Author:
 Mark Batterson serves as the lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D. C. Recognized as “one of America’s 25 most innovative churches,” NCC is one church with seven locations. Mark’s blog (www.markbatterson.com) and webcast (www.theaterchurch.com) also reach a virtual congregation around the world. Mark is the author of several bestselling books, including New York Times Bestseller - The Circle Maker and In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day. He and his wife, Lora, live on Capitol Hill with their three children. You can follow Mark on Twitter: @markbatterson

My Review:
 Bathing your children in prayer is really the only answer you have to life's little problems and worries that seem to creep up from time to time. I have very real recollections of my mother discerning at her bedside for her entire family. Her tear soaked bedside a reminder of the prayers she sent heavenward. She was always standing in intercessory prayer for my sisters and me. That Christian woman, my momma, knew how to get things to look better for us. The answer to it all was to go to the Lord in prayer and cover her children.

 I'm eternally grateful that God gave me a mother who was not afraid to stand in our place and kneel before him and bathe us in prayer. She was a terrific mom and seeing her do that time and again was a testament to me when raising my children. This will span generations which is exactly what Mark is trying to teach us. I have definitely followed by example by covering my children with the ultimate protection Jesus' blood. Mark Batterson has written a book that is the companion to his earlier book The Circle Maker. He tells you exactly how powerful prayer is and how this is the only thing you as a parent will be able to do to fight the evil that is ready to come after our children. He shows you that it is very important for you to cover them in prayer because the enemy.... is not far behind. For those of you that would like to purchase a copy of this book please go to this link.

So, Zondervan has blessed me with not one but two copies of this book for my readers. Yep, you read that right TWO. Two readers will each get a copy. Good Luck!

**Disclosure** This book was provided to me for free through Zondervan Publishing for my honest review.

A Music Lovers Giveaway

   

       Music                  Lovers
 Giveaway







 Sponsored by: Sol Republic Co-Hosted by: Mom Blog Society, She Informed, Geeky Gamer Mom, Jackie's Reviews, Mom Does Reviews, Rout 249, S.O.S Mom, Swank Savings, Spend With Pennies, Zoes Printable Coupons, Verging On     SOL (Soundtracks Of Life) is all about, and known for there premium quality for sound and merchandise. My Tracks Ultra Headphones are a navy blue base with white cushions on the inside. On top of it's sleek design it is also equipped the brand new V12 HD sound Engine's with SonicSoft. If the look of the Track Ultra isn't up to par with your taste buds then luckily your new headset has customizable parts sold separately. You can change from the color of your band, to the color of the wires you plug in to your Droid/iPad/iPod/ect.        

• Video: Now you can watch episodes of your favorite TV shows, Hollywood blockbusters, free video podcasts and home videos on your iPod nano. View them on the widescreen 2.5-inch Multi-Touch display. Tap to play, fast-forward, rewind and pause
• Design: About the size of a credit card, the iPod nano is just 0.24" (5.4mm) thin. The 2.5" Multi-Touch display is nearly twice the size of the display on the previous iPod nano, so you can see more of the music, photos and videos you have
• Bluetooth 4.0: Pairing iPod nano with Bluetooth-enabled headphones and supported speakers is a cinch. With no wires in the way, connecting to Bluetooth devices is hassle free
• Music: Tap to play your favorite songs, entire albums or everything by one artist. You can even browse by genres or composers. Flip through your music by album art. To keep things fresh, give the iPod nano a shake and it shuffles to a different song in your music library
• Radio: FM radio keeps you up on what's going on out there, whether it's the game, the top news stories or your favorite talk shows. Just plug in your headphones and tap to see the controls. Flick the radio dial to change stations

Open to USA 1/9-1/14 12:59 pm est     One lucky winner will win all! Simply enter the Rafflecopter Below for your chance to win. GOOD LUCK!

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Valentine's Giveaway 4 Winners

 
  Are you ready to just get away for a few days just you and your significant other? Well lucky for you here is a giveaway made for you! Just enter below:

 Prizes: 4 WINNERS 4 Holiday Inn Vouchers for 2 Nights and 3 Days Stay 4 1800Flowers 4 Chocolate Cover Strawberries 4 $50 Applebees Cards The event dates: 1/7- 1/18 Open to US Only Sponsored by: Holiday Inn | 1800 Flowers | Co-Host: Mom Blog Society | Jackie's Reviews | Geeky Gamer Mom | She Informed | Mom Does Reviews | Route 249 | Stuff I Love | As Mom Sees It | Finger Click Saver | Make this Valentines Day a Day To Remember. For a chance to win, simply enter via the Rafflecopter below. GOOD LUCK
 

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Review:Has a Donkey Ever Brought You Breakfast in Bed?: Weird animals doing wacky things by:Pat Brannon

About the Book:
It is not unusual to see a gorilla beating its chest at the zoo, but it is unusual to see it boxing with a mosquito. You’ve probably seen camels walking through the desert on television, but I bet you’ve never seen them in a bowling league at the bowling alley. I’m sure you’ve seen chickens strut around in the chicken pen from time to time, but I bet you’ve never seen a sunburned chicken. Kangaroos are fun animals that normally hop all over the place, but I’m sure that you’ve never seen them hop on someone’s head. Just like humans, animals sometimes do strange and unexpected things. Step inside this book of wonders and enjoy the animals that are sure to capture your attention.

About the Author:
  Pat Brannon is a Christian and children’s author and a Southern Gospel songwriter from Amory, MS. Having grown up in a large musical family, writing songs, books and poems are like breathing to Pat. She has a passion for writing and pursues that passion with all the gusto she can muster. And, she loves people. Growing up on the musical stage, Pat loves singing and performing. Since the age of nine, she has been a member of three bands and appeared on the small stage, radio and television. She is a regular vocalist at Meadowood Baptist Church and is an active member of the Adult Sanctuary Choir. When Pat isn’t singing, you can look for her at schools doing her full monologue in character about bullying. Not only is this presentation great for schools, it’s perfect for churches also. This is a program everyone should see. Although Pat was born in Morrilton, Arkansas, in 1981 she and her family moved to Amory, MS. She is married to Howard Brannon and they have two sons-Jason and Shawn-and one precious grandchild whom Pat lovingly calls Elijah Nic. You may reach Pat at www.patbrannon.com or patbrannon31@gmail.com.

My Review:
 If you have children like I do that are crazy about animals this is definitely the book for them. It is a book that will hold their attention for sure. I brought out this book to my almost 3 year old and he actually sat still and listened. This was a BIG deal for our little guy because he is usually seen running past you at a million miles per minute. Even though our youngest is a toddler he understood a lot of the comparisons that the author had made in the book and he laughed at many of them.

 The author has done a brilliant job on this book with the ebb and flow of the poetic words that speak all about animals and the silly antics that they may preform. The illustrations are also right on the money. They are bright and colorful and describe the words perfectly. This book is available for purchase at at this link.
We enjoyed this book immensely and we know your family will too.

**Disclosure** This book was provided to me for free for my honest review from the author. 

Review: Courting Cate by: Leslie Gould

About the Book:
 In Paradise, Pennsylvania, Cate Miller is known more for her sharp tongue and fiery temper than her striking appearance. Her sweet and flirty sister, Betsy, on the other hand, seems to have attracted most of the bachelors in Lancaster County!

But the sisters' wealthy father has made one hard-and-fast rule: older Cate must marry first, before younger Betsy can even start courting. Unfortunately, untamable Cate has driven away every suitor--until Pete Treger comes to town, that is.

Prodded by the men of the area, Pete turns his attention to winning Cate's hand. But is his interest true or is there a scheme at play?

About the Author:

 Leslie Gould is the coauthor, with Mindy Starns Clark, of the #1 bestselling The Amish Midwife and The Amish Nanny. She is also the author of numerous novels, including Garden of Dreams, Beyond the Blue (winner of the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice for Best Inspirational Novel, 2006), and Scrap Everything. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Portland State University and has taught fiction writing at Multnomah University as an adjunct professor. She resides with her husband and four children in Portland, Oregon. Learn more at www.lesliegould.com.

My Review:
 This is the first book in the series The Courtships in Lancaster County. The author Leslie Gould has done a magnificent job on this book. Her inspiration came from the Shakespearean work Taming of the Shrew and she was able to parallel the two beautifully. Cate in her early twenties finds herself virtually unapproachable by any person of the opposite gender. She doesn't have anyone courting her or any promises of marriage. And while Cate is all together fine with this and has accepted it as her lot in life her father has not.

 The author takes through the misfortune that has befallen Cate as Cate is told along with her sister that neither can court or marry until Cate has become promised to someone. Which of course, turns Cate's younger sister Betsy into a ball of tears. While Cate is at one of her most favorite places a gentleman turns up all be it a stranger, that seems to turn Cate's head if only for a moment. But in all likelihood this man just like all the others will be interested in Betsy and not her, or so she thinks. So Cate goes into her own private little world ready to continue on with her life as she has done before. Until someone stops her dead in her tracks someone that likes a feisty girl and isn't afraid of a challenge.

**Disclosure** This book was provided to me for free through Bethany House Publishers for my honest review.