Three Shoeboxes

I've been a huge fan of Steven Manchester's novel since I read my first one. I guess what draws me to continue to read anything he writes is his ability to cut to the core of what we all feel deep down inside ourselves. Those are often places we hope we never have to visit in our lifetime and being exposed to them from a safe place allows us to see things from different perspectives and wonder if we were in the same situation, how might we deal with what the characters face.

In his latest novel, Three Shoeboxes, Mac Anderson, is living the dream. He has a successful career as an ad executive, a wonderful home, loving wife, three wonderful children and the support of those in his community. Yet he would never have expected that the one night as he was driving home from an anniversary dinner with his wife, that this would be the catalyst that would change everything and strip it away piece by piece.

As he begins to experience what can only be described as panic attacks, Mac refuses to let anyone into what he is dealing with. Perhaps that is that manly pride that as the head of the house, one needs to hold it all together at all times. Even though his wife Jen can clearly see he is dealing with issues, he continues to keep her at bay. As each of these attacks grows more frequent and out of control, Mac finally relents to getting some personal help. Yet even the therapist can seem to grasp the sudden turn around in his life and be able to help him deal with things.

So Mac gives up and tries to resolve the issues on his own, becoming more and more hostile, argumentative and even resorting to alcohol to put this attacks to rest. Only it just drives a deeper and widening gap between his family until he loses control one night and from then out out, even is family no longer wants anything to do with him and now he faces the loss of his job, the support of family and friends and now living on the street he faces his demons alone. Is it all lost? Can he find his way back home? Or is he just one bullet shy from ending it all? You'll have to find out by picking up this novel.

I received Three Shoeboxes by Steven Manchester compliments of The Story Plant. This is an emotional story that could face anyone at anytime, and makes us all understand how precious moments are in life and how quickly it can all change. It makes the reader reassess what it the most valuable things in your life and how you might face the challenges Mac faces. Does he have the faith in himself to fight his way back to the man he used to be? I'll let you decide when you pick this one up. For me, again a stellar 5 star novel in my opinion.

For more information about Steven Manchester, Three Shoeboxes or where you can pick up a copy of this novel today, please click on the links below:

Three Shoeboxes by Steven Manchester

You can find Steven Manchester on Facebook to stay up to date his latest novels.

A Prairie Girl's Faith

Do you often wonder why so many people are still watching beloved reruns of Little House on the Prairie? Why so many mothers still read the books to their children? What has been the lasting impact on why so many people are still drawn to the woman who shared her stories of life living on the prairie for so many generations to enjoy?  You just might be interested in A Prairie Girl's Faith by Stephen W. Hines, to discover the spiritual legacy of Laura Ingalls Wilder.

In a world of vastly different subject matters, parents I believe are still holding on to the family values and good-natured morals of the Ingalls family. Where forgiveness can still be found, where family is the greatest binder of faith, hope and love, and where holding on to the values that the Bible speaks of rings true no matter the age or background of those interested in the books or television show. I believe that people could identify with Laura and the true stories she told of life on the prairie with her family and those they came into contact with, where every family member felt as real to us as those in our own family.

The Ingalls family has taught us that those pioneer values of hope, endurance, courage and religious conviction, shaped by our Lord and His teachings, have given us a vision of America that we should strive for. True Christian faith can guide us into the future and one example for a healthy, loving faith is found in Laura Ingalls Wilder and her beloved family. It is her faith that is woven into her family's story of pioneering in the old West. This book introduces and takes the reader through understanding why this young woman's story has outlasted time, and seems to find new fans throughout the generations and those to come. That despite the odds against them, the family remains together and united by their faith. There is no consideration of leaving, divorce or walking away when the going gets tough. They work through things, not always perfectly, but together.

I received A Prairie Girl's Faith by Stephen W. Hines compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers. I LOVE how this book, takes readers into the background of things we never questioned but what built the foundation that continues to draw people into the Ingalls family. This was a family for whom their faith was tantamount because going to church on Sunday, was just a common as getting up for milking the cow. It was never questioned how one might spend that day. It was reserved for nurturing the family in strengthening their faith, and that closeness shared between their family. Perhaps that is what is missing so much from the world today, that faith can move mountains. It can reunite and heal brokenness in a family and give them the strength to endure whatever hardship that comes their way simply by applying their faith as they understood it through what they learned and applied in their day to day lives. I easily give this book a 5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about A Prairie Girl's Faith, Stephen W. Hines or where you can pre-order a copy of this book today due out in February of 2018, please click on the links below:

A Prairie Girl's Faith by Stephen W. Hines 

You can find out more information about anything related to Little House on the Prairie by visiting their website. 

To read more reviews on A Prairie Girl's Faith, please visit WaterBrook Multnomah Publisher's website. 

Same Kind of Different As Me - FREE Movie Ticket Giveaway!

A simple act of kindness can change everything.

In the upcoming movie slated to hit theaters on October 20th, this is a movie you won't want to miss. Long gone are those "cheesy" Christian movies most of us have seen in the past, and this one will be one that will undoubtedly provoke a change in your own life if not in your own heart. Based on the New York Time's Best Selling book by the same name, this is a movie that will live in your heart long after the credits roll.

An all-star cast featuring Greg Kinnear, Renee Zellweger, Jon Voight and Djimon Hounsou, viewers are taken into the lives of Ron Hall (Greg Kinnear) who is an international art dealer that seems to be too busy for his wife, Deborah (Renee Zellweger) and that places a strain on their marriage. She spends her time, caring for the kids and house, managing things so life is easy for Ron, even managing to find time to volunteer at the inner city rescue mission where she meets Denver, a homeless man, she has dreams about. The Hall's literally have more money than they need, and what they need is some help with their troubled marriage. She feels that she must find a way to befriend this man because he holds the answers to her problem with Ron somehow.

As arguments grow more heated between Ron and Deborah, she learns of Ron's unfaithfulness she gives him the ultimatum to leave. She will only allow him to stay if he spends some time doing something other than taking care of himself and thus the challenge to help Denver out, even if it means the possibility of losing his status with the elite people in his life. If he can accomplish that task, Deborah will consider making a go of their marriage again, but perhaps more than just the marriage will be saved in the end. Denver's motto: "Nobody can help everybody, but everybody can help somebody" is the theme of this incredible movie.

Now for the best amazing part. Thanks to the generosity of Pure Flix Entertainment and Lev3L Digital, I am giving away 2 movie ticket codes in time to see this incredible movie. Here is all you need to do to enter the giveaway.

1. Use your social media expertise to generate some interest in this film. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, you name it. The more you share, the greater the chances of winning a pair of these tickets. Each time you post, grab that link and share it back here under the comments window. Enter as many times as you want, post every day from now until the release date. Just make sure to come back here and post those links so we can track the response of your social media campaign.

2. Winner's must be in the US only at this time.

3. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a pair of tickets to see this and who you plan on taking. You will receive the codes before the release date and the codes can only be used for this film. You will have some time to view it if you can't make it on October 20th.

4. Provide an email address in the comments section below. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols if you wish. Without an email address, I have no way of contacting you if you're the lucky winner.

You can even get pictures, trailers, ticket information and details from the film's website, Same Kind of Different as Me. 

Same Kind of Different As Me by Pure Flix Entertainment and Paramount Studios.

You can find more incredible information about the movie on the movie's Facebook as well. 
 

Altar Egos DVD Giveaway and Review

So what does one do when taking over an existing church from his father's legacy? Well you'd think based on the lack of church attendance, you would consider making some changes to invite more people to want to join right? Well that is precisely what Pastor John (Robert Amaya, Courageous and Moms Night Out) wants to do. During the service the existing church choir makes it difficult for anyone to stay focused and awake including the elderly organist so he begins to look for ways to increase church attendance. His biggest obstacle is Mary Margaret, the head chairperson on the church board who believes that change isn't something that the church requires. She begins to question whether he is the right man for heading up the church after all.

She takes it upon herself to organize a strike against his leadership beginning with the removal of the church choir, which has the remaining church members in a fuss. They want the choir back. Mary Margaret has also called for a church board meeting to discuss Pastor John's removal and subsequent replacement. If only he could find a way to attend that meeting. He convinces his thespian son, Jack to help him find the perfect disguise so he can go unnoticed as an elderly man in their meeting. However Jack doesn't think his dad can pull it off simply because he looks like an older man. So Jack dresses up as an elderly man, called Frank while his dad goes under the name Milo and they walk the mall trying out their disguises.

Well the role play is a success in one right, they now find themselves committed to joining the church members for meetings, a Christmas party and even a dinner meeting with the potential new pastor all while remaining in disguise. I won't reveal all the high jinks and humor that comes along with this, but you can tell from the movie's title, this one was well thought out. The theme of loving the unlovable, reconciliation and change versus tradition will be one the entire family will enjoy. This movie also stars Erin Bethea, (Fireproof).

I received Altar Egos compliments of Bridgestone Multimedia Group and LEV3L Digital. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie and know that if you are looking for a great comedy that is perfect for the entire family, you will want to check this film out. It is Dove Family Approved and I can't wait for you to see it. I would easily give this movie a 4 out of 5 stars. Check out this exclusive film clip below:

Now for the thanks to the generosity of Bridgestone Multimedia Group and LEV3L Digital, they are giving away a copy of this DVD to one lucky winner. Here are your guidelines to enter:

1. "Like" Altar Ego's Facebook page.

2. Be a resident of the US or have a US mailing address.

3. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this movie along with your email address. You can use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

4. Share this link on at least one social media site of your choice and post that link in the comments.

I will notify the winner of the giveaway on August 29th by email. If you don't include your email address I have no way of contacting you if you are the lucky winner.

For more information about Altar Egos and where you can pick up a copy of the DVD which releases on September 5, 2017, please click on the links below:

Altar Egos by Bridgestone Multimedia Group

You can find Altar Egos on Facebook to stay up to date with all the movie fun.

To purchase tickets, access videos, photos, downloads, news, theaters, and more, visit Altar Egos website.

All Saints - Movie Ticket Giveaway

From the makers of films like Miracles From Heaven and the War Room,  Provident Films and Sony Affirm Pictures once again has created what I believe will be another life changing movie. All Saints is coming soon to a theater near you on August 25th and with it the chance to win a pair of movie tickets to go see the film in theaters. All Saints is a movie based on true life events and takes a pastor, Michael Spurlock played by John Corbett who is sent to a small town to close the All Saints church due to low or what some might say is poor attendance. There are only 12 current members attending. Using his prior sales experience Michael is given inspiration to try one more time to see what he can do to generate interest in the church.

With the arrival of a group of Burmese refugees who understand the power of faith, they help inspire Michael to give God a chance to revive the church again. He is reminded that when Jesus started the church on earth, he began with just 12 people too and yet He did alright. Coupled with the faith and hope of those who can see God's hand in making use of their talents, from beginning a farm based on the great soil surrounding the church, and being reminded that we all have a purpose to serve by being created. Kind of like Matthew West's song, Do Something. Sometimes we all wait around in this world hoping for a better world and hoping that it will come about without us having to lift a finger. What if God's purpose is for us all to contribute while we still have breath in our lungs. That is what Pastor Spurlock will face when he struggles to understand his purpose by being assigned to save this church.

After all, what will happen if the church closes? Then what will those who attended do? Makes you consider what might happen if that very thing happened even within the doors of our own church, because we have come to expect that others will step up so we can have a place to worship. What happens when those around you go hungry and there isn't resources to feed them. Pastor Spurlock believes God has called him to do just that. To not only save the church, but to feed the people both the come to All Saints but even those in the community in hopes that a small spark will ignite into a flaming fire of redemption and restoration. From a seed of faith, grows hope!

I received this giveaway promotion compliments of Sony Affirm Pictures and LEV3L Digital. As a Featured Contributor of Sony’s ALL SAINTS Influencer Program, I received the value of two movie tickets in exchange for an honest review on my blog. The giveaway winner will receive a Fandago code to purchase two tickets FREE to see it on the night of your choice. It's simple and I've done it in the past! The giveaway codes will be received in time to see the movie, so you won't miss out. What I need your participate in is to help spread the word about this movie. So often as Christians, we look for great entertainment for the entire family in light of what is currently being shown in movie theaters, so lets remind the world, we want more movies like this one!

So please visit all the resource sites below to copy and share banners and movie clips and trailers like the ones features in this post. Use your social media sites to help spread the word. For each share, simply copy and paste your links below in the comment box to be entered to win in this giveaway. From Facebook, to Pinterest, to Instagram, Snap Chat, Twitter and any other way to can think of, let's join forces as a Christian community and share the good news about this upcoming movie. The giveaway will end on August 18, 2017.

For more information about All Saints, Sony Affirm Pictures, or Provident Films please click on the links below:

All Saints by Sony Affirm Pictures and Provident Films

You can find All Saints on Facebook to stay up to date on all the latest about the movie.

Please find some great resources about the film like movie discussion guides, refugee information, and more by visiting All Saint's website.  

To Joey, With Love - DVD Review and Giveway

Just how does anyone come to terms with saying goodbye knowing you are going to die? Is there any way to prepare for the loss not only are you going to feel but also for your family and friends who have to stand by and watch as cancer robs the life of another precious saint?

Most people can say that they recall the story of Joey and Rory Feek, a country music duo, who faced such a hardship. In March of 2016, Joey Feek quietly walked into the arms of Jesus and entered into eternity despite all the best known attempts at beating cancer. Some people might say that she lost her battle. That despite the many months of prayers for a miracle, she simply didn't get one. Yet she was healed of her cancer. It may have robbed this precious wife and mom of her earthly life, but where she dwells now in heaven, cancer can no longer touch her and one day she will be eternally reunited with her family and friends, never having to say Goodbye again.

In the DVD, To Joey, With Love, this documentary chronicles this story of both the love and faith of Joey and Rory Feek, the birth of their daughter Indiana, who was born with Down's Syndrome, and the loss of the life of a mother for her two-year-old daughter. Thankfully the couple had the insight to film this journey and viewer of this DVD get a look at the personal journey that most never saw. The courageous battle to beat cancer this side of heaven, and the decision to quietly give up treatments when the cancer refused to shrink.

I believe that everyone will take away something different from watching this love story. For me, it is the love is eternal and everlasting. Perhaps that is why the Bible says that the greatest gift from God is love. It transcends time and space and it is the one thing we will take with us when we breathe our final breath on earth and take our first one in heaven. It shows that her faith in God never wavered in spite of all the doctor's diagnosis. Perhaps this one hits home for me, was my dear friend is also facing her third diagnosis of cancer. One thing is certain, the battle isn't ours to wage but God's and faith can be found woven into the entire documentary.

I received To Joey, With Love compliments of Icon Media Group. It is the hardest DVD I had to watch and review because it hits home for me as a wife and mother. It is a beautiful love story that had the pause button pressed for now, but one day will continue and will be the true story of happily ever after. I am so humbled by this mother's faith and the love she shows for her daughter, even as she knows her time is growing short. For me this will be one that stay with me, long after the movie ends and thus the reason for a 5 out of 5 stars!

Now for the amazing part, thanks to the blessed generosity of Icon Media Goup, they are offering a DVD of To Joey, With Love to one lucky follower of my blog Reviews From The Heart. Here are the details to enter.

1. Be a follower of my blog, Reviews From The Heart or "Like" my Facebook page.

2. Be a resident of the US and please NO P.O. Boxes.

3. Leave a comment below telling me why you'd love to win a copy of this DVD along with your email address. I will be notifying the winner via email so make sure to include it with your comment. You can even use the words (at) and (dot) instead of the symbols.

4. For social media followers, simply comment on my page why you would love to win a copy. I will reach out to you via private message if you are the lucky winner and contact you for your mailing information at that time.

So there are two ways to enter but only one winner. I will notify the winner via email or private message when the giveaway ends on December 16th.

For more information about To Joey, With Love, Icon Media Group or where you can pick up a copy of this DVD today, please click on the links below:

To Joey, With Love from Icon Media Group

You can read more about Rory and Joey's life on Rory's blog.

Finding Unauthorized Faith in Harry Potter

I used to look at certain things and decide if they were of this world or heaven sent. Yet the one thing I realized is that while the enemy can use everything to bring about our own fall and for his purpose, the God of Heaven can do the same thing. While there has been an ongoing debate over whether Christians should watch Harry Potter or not based on their ability to cast spells and battle the darkness as witches and wizards, I firmly believe goodness can come from the dark if we are willing to use spiritual discernment and biblical wisdom. The very best thing that can come from it is a conversation starter about our faith which is always a great open door to take.

In Finding Unauthorized Faith in Harry Potter by Nicole L. Rivera, a Devotion for the Wizarding World, that incorporates parts of the books from the entire Harry Potter series and finds a life application for its use from the Bible to help draw the positive points to the light. "I originally entitled this book, The Parable of Harry Potter, because I believe the Harry Potter story is a parable of Christian values and of the Christ-story, whether intended by the author or not. I hope this book will act as a tool for Harry Potter fans to grow deeper in their faith and explore faith in Christ for the first time. All are welcome!" (Note on Parables).

With over 80 different devotions from all of the books in the Harry Potter series, you are bound to find something that you can relate to, from Harry being chosen to attend Hogwarts while living as an unwanted orphan in the Dursley's home, we find that God has a true purpose in all of our lives that only we can fulfill. Each devotions captures dialogue from the books along with the general idea of the story at that point and how the character is dealing with issues. It then finds a great biblical scripture or scriptures to point out how God's Word offers comfort to those who are seeking to find greatness and light in their own lives. Such devotion titles include: "Becoming a Friend," "Nearly Headless Nick's Longing to Belong," "The Time Turner," "Hermoine's Advice," "Lupin's Act of Love," "Power the Dark Lord Knows Not,""The Parable of Severus Snape," are just some of what you will find inside.

I received Finding Unauthorized Faith in Harry Potter by Nicole L. Rivera, compliments of Hickey's Books and Potter Wars for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of this book, in exchange for my personal honest review of the product. Being a huge fan of not only the Harry Potter movies but more so the books, I love that Nicole found a way to use the lessons we can find in the series, to showcase the very parables and lessons the Bible teaches. With scripture to back it up as well as applicable lessons from the Bible we can see how you can put the two together and come away with something great! For me, I'd rate this one a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion and would make an exceptional gift for any Harry Potter fan!

For more information about Finding Unauthorized Faith in Harry Potter, Nicole L. Rivera or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Finding Unauthorized Faith in Harry Potter by Nicole L. Rivera 

You can find Nicole L. Rivera on Facebook to stay up to date with all her latest books and projects.

To order a copy of this book, you can visit Hickey's Book's website or visit your favorite retailers. 

Our Presidents and Their Prayers

What is the single most important common thread that unites all American Presidents - such a small number of extraordinary people from different centuries, parties, backgrounds, and experiences - as if they shoulder the overwhelming responsibilities of the office of President of the United States? There is only one possible answer: their faith.

As a respected national leader and a man of deep faith himself, Senator Rand Paul has written Our Presidents and Their Prayers in collaboration with James Randall Robison to remind us all that in a country founded by religious people, that abiding and rock-solid belief in God has been the key to each and every President's strength. Senator Paul stands up to the doubters in this most timely and important affirmation of how faith and prayer have always guided us, and why they must continued to do so as we face major decisions for the future of our country.

One of the media's favorite questions to politicians is: "Do you believe America is a Christian nation?" Well, it is of course a historical fact that we were founded by a religious people, most of whom were Christians. But if one tries to expound on that point, even to acknowledge its historical significance, some immediately want to paint you as intolerant believer in theocracy. Our founders were not bashful in acknowledging God's grace in our history. Today's critics sometimes imply that you can't have both faith and freedom. Some think you must choose between faith or freedom, or put a different way - liberty or virtue. I believe that leaders guided by faith, leaders guided by virtue are essential.

Most of our presidents recognized this principle, especially President Washington. He recognized that freedom requires an undergirding of faith. Washington believed that democracy depended upon a virtuous people. His prayers and writings, and those of the other great Presidents in our history contained in these pages, reveal how integral our religious traditions were to our founding, and I believe, to our future as well. This book contains prayers from all 44 of our Presidents as well as Rand Paul's commentary and thoughts on their presidency and what he admired or how they implemented their faith in their leadership.

I received Our Presidents and Their Prayers by Rand Paul and James Randall Robison compliments of Center Street Publishing, a division of Hachette Book Groups for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation aside from a free copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion. I love that I have some of the most amazing prayers by some of the Presidents I admire all contained in the course of an amazing hard cover book. It seems that as the Presidents move to the current administration, the mention of God in their prayers was not as heartfelt but merely offered as a way of appeasing the God that anyone might worship regardless if it was the same as that of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson or Abraham Lincoln. In my opinion, those who love historical items like this one, will definitely want to keep a piece of our countries faith on their book shelf. I would rate this a 4 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Our Presidents and Their Prayers, Rand Paul, James Randall Robison or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Our Presidents and Their Prayers by Rand Paul and James Randall Robison

You can find Rand Paul on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest books and faith in politics.

To read more reviews on Our Presidents and Their Prayers, please visit Center Street Publishing's website. 

Find A Way - DVD Review

God appoints a time for our birth and a time for our death. It's what we do with the dash in between that makes a difference in the life of a believer. Word Films introduces their latest DVD, Find A Way, which features an all-star high school football player, Smiley Cain, has it all together both on and off the field. Not only is he well known, but he is an all around guy. One who wears his faith as much as he wears his football jersey. Never one to turn down helping out someone in need from someone named "Stick" who is getting bullied, to a young girl, Casey, who has just been broken up with my her boyfriend because she doesn't seem to have the right look. Not only that he inspires and encourages his teammate and best friend Nick Whitefield, the coaches son, who dreams of following his passion in music over playing football like his dad wants.

Then one day, Smiley doesn't wake up and is immediately rushed to the hospital where the town takes stock in their own lives. From Casey who is watching her family fall apart while she is struggling to come to terms with her recent break up and now watching the one man who had faith in her struggle to survive while he is in the hospital. Her mother is simply too busy with her career and her older sister has plans that involve pursuing her own career with shopping at the mall for the latest in fashions. Her father is struggling to keep the family together but it seems like it is all in vain.

The coaches family faces a similar situation when Nick's mom overhears his father talk down to him about his music career telling him it's a waste of time. When she attempts to correct her husband, he reminds her where her place is in the family and that is of a wife and nothing more. Soon she wonders if divorce from him, might just be the best thing for the family. Finding faith in the midst of difficult circumstances is the theme in this movie.

I received Find A Way from Word Films compliments of Edify Media Inc and Word Films for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review, aside from a free copy of this DVD and the opinions contained here are my own honest personal ones. I would have liked to see this movie made from a higher quality film company because the edits on this one were pretty bad on both the sound and focus issues in certain scenes. The sad thing is that this is meant to have a great impact and with the acting portrayed by the people in this film, you find it hard to truly care about any of the characters in this story. This is based on the true story of Harry Cohen, which should have been the true star of the movie and unfortunately for this reviewer and her family, it fell far short of our expectations. For this reason, I would rate this one a 3 out of 5 stars in my opinion.

For more information about Find A Way, Word Films or where you can pick up a copy of this movie today, please click on the links below:

Find A Way from Word Films

You can find Word Films on Facebook to stay up to date with all their latest movies and DVDs.

Catching Faith - DVD Review

Who doesn't want the perfect family. Successful, strong marriage, loving home, wonderful children who are striving for success in their own personal ways? What if that was all an illusion to those who were living that life? What if from the outside, things looked perfect, but underneath, is was all a well staged act in hopes that one day it might become real?

Catching Faith is the latest DVD which showcases the lives of the Taylor family and from the outside, it all looks perfect. John and Alexa are the loving married couple who are the epitome of parental involvement in the lives of their two children Beau and Ravyn. They attend all of Beau's football games because as the quarterback, he is well on his way to a professional career and one that is finally giving his team hopes of a championship. Ravyn is on track to become her high schools valedictorian, acing every single one of her courses and when she learns she has been accepted for early enrollment at the college of her choice, she is beaming with the wonderful news.

But on the inside it is all a facade. Beau winds up attending a party at the home of friends whose parents are out of town, and finds himself drinking to keep up with the pretenses of everyone there who idolizes him among his peers and teammates. Ravyn learns that unless she can improve her grade in Latin, she will fall from her status as graduating from a valedictorian to a salutatorian, which is something she can't stomach. When she is asked to make copies of the Latin final, she learns that the answer key is also among the papers and feels she has been given a way out.

But when tragedy strikes and Alexa loses her father, things will begin to spiral downhill as the family attempts to deal with the circumstances while trying to maintain the perfect image of what their family should look like to those in their community. It is a true struggle of what it truly means to have faith in God that He will make all things right in His own timing even though we might not like the outcome in how the world will see us. It shows that if you stick together, you have a great starting point in changing circumstances for the better but only through your faith in God first!

I received Catching Faith by RLJ Entertainment and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions contained here are strictly my own. This DVD is currently available for preorder at your local Christian retailer right now, and will be released in early August. For fans of football movies that teach about faith, you will definitely want to add this to your collection. It opens up some great topics of conversation with your family from personal faith, commitment, drinking and cheating and what those outcomes might be like for those who participate in them. In my opinion, there is no greater need right now than to enforce a strong sense of faith within the family than ever before and the reason why I give this one a 4.5 out of 5 stars.

For more information about Catching Faith, RLJ Entertainment, or where you can preorder a copy of this DVD today, please click on the links below:

Catching Faith by RLJ Entertainment

You can find Catching Faith on Facebook to stay up to date on all the movies information.

You can preorder a copy of Catching Faith from Amazon.

Iesodo: Faith

Not since Veggie Tales has there been a great series for parents to provide visual entertainment for their children with great lessons to encourage further communication with your kids. Now there is, with Iesodo, pronounced Yay-Sa-Doe, meaning The Way of Jesus, which is a white dove in the bird world that represent the persona of Jesus. As this series begins, we are introduced to the family of birds that reside in a place called Cypress World on the Sea of Gailee that share two episode in each DVD filled with amazing and beautiful animation and music geared just for your kids.

I was invited to review Iesodo: Faith where you introduced to Miracles are Everywhere. The Hopi's are traditionalists and have their own way of doing things sticking to their traditional way of life. When Finch the Snitch conveys that Iesodo and his followers are doing things differently by spreading the good news, they immediately spring into action to put a stop to things. They send the Finch into action trying to find a way to trap Iesodo but when they arrive to speak to a large flock, it seems there won't be enough to feed them all. What will happen? Will they have enough faith to believe in what Iesodo instructs them to do?

In the next episode, The Wind and The Rain, teaches your children what you can do when you are afraid and how having faith helps to know that you can come through things if you remain strong. When the birds venture out on the Sea and the storms begin to get worse, Maggie comes up with a song to help the birds initially but then the waves and wind toss them overboard. They begin to grow afraid until Iesodo reminds them to have faith. He encourages Rocky to step out on the water and come to him in a miraculous retelling of Paul's journey of faith in Jesus. Anything is possible if you just believe.

I received Iesodo: Faith DVD compliments of Zaya Toonz, Rollman Entertainment, Capital Christian Distribution and Edify Media Inc for my honest review. This is such a brilliant series that you will want to make sure you collect all three, Love, Faith and Believe in the series. Directors for the series include Brian E. Ray whose credits consist of Muppet Babies, My Little Pony Tales and Ed, Ed, and Eddy, as well as Colin Brady, whose credits include Toy Story, Toy Story 2 and A Bug's Life. Brady also served as the former animation supervisor for Pixar Animation Studios. Producer Eric S. Rollman, President/CEO of Rollman Entertainment, formerly served as President of Production for Fox Kids and Marvel, and writer/producer Rob Loos is an Emmy Nominee and writer/producer for McGee and Me! Christmas Lamb, Kids 10 Commandments and Touched by an Angel. The Iesodo series also features the voice of Erin Bethea (Fireproof, Amazing Love) as Maggie. So as you can see this is a collaborative effort utilizing some of the best talents to bring you something wonderful for teaching your child biblical concepts that they will LOVE. I easily give this series a 5 out of 5 stars. My only complaint is that I wish this was available when I was growing up! Run time is about 55 minutes and contains some great bonus features like Bible verses, music videos and much more.This has received the Dove Approved Seal.

For more information about Iesodo DVD's,  Capital Christian Distribution, or where you can pick up these DVD's today, please click on the links below: 

Iesodo: Faith DVD

You can also find Iesodo on Facebook to stay up to date with all their latest DVD releases. 

You can purchase this DVD on Amazon by clicking here. 

• Actors: Tony Oliver, Erin Bethea, T.W. Gibis, Joey Lotsko, Ron Allen
• Directors: Brian E. Ray
• Format: Full Screen, NTSC
• Region: Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only. Read more about DVD formats.)
• Number of discs: 1
• Studio: Zaya Toonz, LLC
• DVD Release Date: January 21, 2014
• Run Time: 50 minutes

 

Prime of Life

"Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." ~ Hebrews 13:2 (NIV)

If you're looking for an exceptional book that has just a little bit of everything tucked just inside the covers, humor, kindness, reflection, humility and a powerful message that ties them all together, than look no further than Prime of Life by P. D. Bekendam. The is a treasure just waiting to be discovered and I promise you, that you will NOT be disappointed when you get to the end.

It takes place at Heritage Gardens, a retirement home for seniors where we meet our main character, who simply goes by the name of Ben. He works as a janitor not only as a way to earn a living but to escape his past that refuses to stay in the past. When one of the retirees, the Professor, discovers that Ben used to be a doctor, he sets out to discover just why Ben would give up a high paying career saving lives to spend it cleaning toilets for a bunch of old folks.

Soon you will find that in Heritage Gardens, humor abounds in the unlikeliest of places. Frank and Marvin have grown up trying to out do each other since they were children and it hasn't changed now that they reside in the same senior home. It's a never ending job for Ben cleaning up each others messes as each one tries to get back at the other. When a younger woman named Betty Boestra, who been nicknamed Betty Boop, moves into the home, suddenly Frank and Marvin try to out do one another seeing who can attract her attention first.  The elderly ladies in the home, spend their time gossiping about Betty or spend their time in the beauty shop trying to look better for all the men who suddenly seem interested in the newest resident.

It's really to story of Ben that readers will find themselves drawn to as Ben becomes a bit of an obsessive compulsive person addicted with numbers, especially prime ones, and everything he does revolves around how many tiles he walks over to how many steps he takes getting from one place to another. It all has to end in a prime number. He refuses to wear anything with zippers and even his striped polo shirts or ties, have to have a prime number of stripes or he won't buy them. Yet along the way, you can't help but be drawn in to Ben's past and how it will soon resurface in a way he never imagined and his life will become full circle.

I received Prime of Life by P. D. Bekendam compliments of Worthy Publishing for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation for a favorable review and the opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own. I love how this story concludes and probably the highlight for me when you see how it all comes together kinda of like a hidden treasure. What you don't realize is the whole time, clues are being given which you miss until the end. It's then you have that "Aha!" moment and discover what the whole thing has been about. Truly a brilliant author who uses his god-given talents without being overly religious to get his meaning across in an unforgettable way. I easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars for this heartwarming debut novel that feels a bit like Grumpy Old Men meets Cocoon! The best part is proceeds from his writing go to help fund his activities in developing countries as he works to bring cataract surgery to the needlessly blind!

For more information about Prime of Life, P.D. Bekendam or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:

Prime of Life by P. D. Bekendam

You can also find P. D. Bekendam on Facebook to stay up to date with all his latest novels.

To read more reviews on Prime of Life, please visit Worthy Publishing's website. 

• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: Worthy Publishing (February 4, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1617952273
• ISBN-13: 978-1617952272
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 1 inches

Coming Home

In my personal opinion, if a book can make me feel emotion so deeply that I feel a part of the story, it's a winner! This one, moved me to tears many, many times and shows just how we go about dealing with loss as a Christian in a world where all we want is answers to the question why.

In Karen Kingsbury's latest novel, Coming Home, the reader is immediately invited to join the Baxter family as Ashley, one of the daughters, begins to make plans for her father's seventieth birthday party. Like most family's that are grown and beginning families of their own, it is hard to coordinate a surprise for her dad, John with all his kids present but that is exactly what Ashley has planned. They all want to surprise their dad and be present to show him just how much they all love and care about him, even though they all lost their mom to cancer a few years ago. John has since remarried and doesn't expect anything more than an invitation to attend a bar-b-que with Ashley and her family.

Not expecting all her brothers and sisters and their families to be able to be there, Ashley's husband, Landon suggests that each of them should write a letter to their dad explaining what he means to each of them. They could read the letters out loud at the birthday celebration and each of them share how much their father's life has impacted them. They all agree to do this and set to work on their own personal letters.

Much to Ashley's surprise, all of her brothers, sisters and their families make plans to be there moments before her father and his wife show up, and all agree to do their best to keep it a secret. They all are touched that the man who has impacted their personal lives will receive the ultimate surprise that day, unfortunately it will not be the surprise any of them ever expected. You'll have to read this one to know the outcome of the story and see just how their own personal faith will be tested.



I received Coming Home by Karen Kingsbury compliments of Zondervan Publishers and NetGalley for my honest review. This is my second time experiencing a Karen Kingsbury first and if you never have, you have to try one. It is truly a life changing experience. There is a safe harbor to be sitting in while watching a family go through one of the most challenging and difficult times for anyone but being a family of believers in Christ, makes this one truly unique to watch and feel. This is a true testament to the faith of a believer in Christ and what lies behind this life when we breathe our last. I think Karen did an exceptional job at bringing the Baxter family series to a beautiful conclusion. Even though I haven't read any books in the series, I immediately felt like I already belonged to this wonderful family. You can pick this one up and begin the experience all over again, it's such a perfect stand alone story!

This book rates for me, a 5 out of 5 stars. Not only did it increase my own personal faith through this book, but it strengthen me, to understand how it all plays out so eloquently together, with hope, unconditional love, and an eternal future promised to all who believe in Jesus Christ. That this life will not end when we leave this world.

For more information on Coming Home, Karen Kingsbury and where you can pick up a copy of this book that becomes available as of June 26th for purchase, please click on the links below:

Coming Home: A Story of Unending Love and Eternal Promise (Baxter Family) by Karen Kingsbury

To stay up to date on the latest from Karen Kingsbury, you can follow her on Facebook by clicking here.

Still: Notes On A Mid-Faith Crisis

In her critically-acclaimed memoir Girl Meets God, Lauren F. Winner explores her religious identity as she made the transition from Judaism to Christianity. A thought-provoking glimpse into 21st century religion, Winner was praised as "insatiable, and dauntless, in her search for religious truth at whatever the personal cost" by the New York Times.

In Still: Notes on a Mid-Faith Crisis, Lauren offers readers a quietly powerful and fiercely honest exploration of love, loss and what it means to land at the "middle stage" of the spiritual life. Taking her spiritual quest even deeper, she navigates difficult new terrain as she confronts the spiritual aftermath of personal tragedy.

At a time of crisis - grieving her mother's death, navigating a painful divorce - Lauren finds that she is mourning her faith as well. She hasn't lost sight of God entirely, but she's watching him gradually fade away. She offers us a "picture of the end of darkness, of the stumbling out of the darkness into something new."

I received Still: Notes on a Mid-Faith Crisis compliments of Authors On The Web for my honest review and have to say, no matter where we are at in our religious beliefs, we've all come to a place where we find ourselves in the middle. Whether we are waiting on answers for prayer, looking for water in the desert when we find ourselves parched and searching, we all hit our dry spells. This is just the point that Lauren takes the readers into her personal life. Between experiencing the newness of finding God and the moment when we find ourselves just accepting life as it is, until we can find our way back to God at some point. An interesting look at something most Christians don't share in their walk with others this is a refreshing look at things from a different perspective not often talked about and for that reason I rate this a 4.5 out of 5 stars.

For more information on this book, the author and where to pick up a copy of this book, please click on the link below:

Still: Notes on a Mid-Faith Crisis by Lauren F. Winner