Sometimes as women we need that emotional cheerleader in our life that takes whatever we are going through to take us by the hand and give us that much needed talk to stop feeling sorry for whatever you're going through and get moving forward. Yet all too often we fall for the lies our own self is telling us. Lies that we aren't a good enough mom, while others around us seem to breeze through motherhood without a care in the world. Lies that all of our dreams will remain just that, dreams of a life we never got around to living. Lies that we are not good enough, when God cared enough to make us the fine women we are today. Don't you need someone to give you that honest talk to shake you out of your pity party of one and get moving on with your life with a better outlook for tomorrow.
Enter Rachel Hollis, who I think resembles Anna Kendrick quite a bit and who always seems to have it together and never seems to have a bad day, a bad month or even a bad year. Yet as women that is how we constantly compare ourselves to others around us instead of comparing our yesterday person to our today person. Why do we do that? In her book, Girl, Wash Your Face, Rachel gets brutally honest, like your best friend would and holds nothing back to get you through the lies she faced and quite honestly like most of the lies all women believe. It is a cry along with her book as she faces adoption struggles, laugh with her when she shares the most incredible stories of her own life and gives you a transparent look at how she can appear to have it all together on the outside and is barely holding it all together on the inside.
She is the one friend I think all of dream of having. She is the person who would come cry with you while your enduring one of life's most challenging struggles, like losing her brother to suicide and then helping you back on your feet to show you that you don't have to stay in that place, and you can use what you're going through to make you stronger. She is such a wonder to listen to and trust me, all of us women NEED this book. I found so many great take away's that I believe I'm going to have to buy another one so I can have a pristine copy, while this one is my reference source to run to when I need a quick pick me up. For me, this book is a much needed book for all women both young and old and why I feel it is beyond worthy of 5 out of 5 stars.
For more information about Girl, Wash Your Face, Rachel Hollis, or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:
It is meant to encourage those who feel at the end of their rope! I don't recall a time in anyone's life when they haven't felt that way. In the DVD release on January 16, 2018, Extraordinary is a perfect illustration of this verse. Based on the true life events of Dr. David Horton and his wife Nancy, this is more than an inspirational film. Dr. David Horton has been somewhat of his own cheerleading team when it comes to the well fair of the students in his college class. During the movie, the Valedictorian and Salutatorian have their own speeches that commend David on his ability to encourage them to get to where they are today.
His wife Nancy has big plans for the two of them to spend some much needed time together during David's summer break. After dealing with a heart attack that left him appreciating life a bit more, she is more than shocked to learn that her husband plans on completing the Trans America running race from Huntington Beach, California to Central Park in New York. She finds out about it during the graduation speeches of one of his students.
Nancy tries to explain to David how important it is that he finds balance in his life by being the man God has called him to be and not only care about God but also about his own family and stop putting them behind his own personal desires and gains. She doesn't discourage him from his commitment but conveys that she might not be waiting for him if he makes the decision to continue his race. Along the way both David and Nancy are forced to a new level of understanding their own expectations of what a marriage should be and how they might have both been responsible for where their marriage is today. It makes everyone watching this movie decide for themselves to understand their own marriages and perhaps make very different choices in the journeys we have left to complete.
I received Extraordinary compliments of Icon Media Group and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. This is such a wonderful film that showcases our own races in this life and how we need to gain a different understanding of perspective in our own lives and in the lives of those we love. The theme centers around marriage, family, love and reconciliation and features a wonderful cast including Kirk Cameron (Growing Pains, Monumental, Saving Christmas) and Karen Abercrombie (War Room). This is a wonderful movie for the entire family to enjoy together and worthy of 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion. To win a copy of the DVD of Extraordinary, please comment below why you'd like to win a copy along with your email address. I will notify the winner of the DVD giveaway on January 16, 2018 by email.
You can find Extraordinary on DVD or Digital Cinema on January 16, 2018, please click on the links below for more information.
You can find Extraordinary on Facebook to learn more about the film and the true story it is based upon.
SHARI RIGBY, LELAND KLASSEN, KAREN ABERCROMBIE AND KIRK CAMERON
STAR IN THE UPLIFTING STORY ABOUT MARRIAGE, FAMILY AND RECONCILIATION
EXTRAORDINARY
AVAILABLE ON DVD AND DIGITAL ON JANUARY 16, 2018
FROM UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Universal City, California
– Based on the real-life events of acclaimed ultra-marathoner David Horton and his wife Nancy,
Extraordinary iscoming to DVD, Digital and On Demand on January 16, 2018, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.
An impactful and perfect story for the entire family, the inspirational film stars Shari Rigby (OctoberBaby), Leland Klassen (AltarEgos), Karen Abercrombie (War Room) and Kirk Cameron (Fireproof)
and follows Horton as his dream of tackling a nearly 3,000-mile run
takes its toll on his body, and brings his marriage to the breaking
point.
Based on a true marriage journey,
Extraordinary tells the amazing story of ultra-marathon
runner and college professor David Horton, his wife, Nancy, and their
attempt to finish their marriage race well. Although proud of his
incredible athletic accomplishments and the impact
he has on his students, David’s family continuously pays a high price
for his years of competitive running. Following his open-heart surgery
and irreparable damage to his knees, Nancy is ready for Dave to hang up
his racing shoes for good and focus his boundless
energy on their family. Instead, feeling called by God to “inspire
people one last time,” Dave sets off for a 2,900-mile race across
America.
BONUS FEATURES on DVD & DIGITAL:
·The David Horton Story
·The
Extraordinary Woman Featurette
·Filmmakers of
Extraordinary
·Keys to an
Extraordinary Marriage
Extraordinary will be available on DVD and Digital.
·DVD
offers the flexibility and convenience of playing movies in more places, both at home and away.
·Digital
lets fans watch movies anywhere on their favorite devices. Users can instantly stream or download.
·Movies Anywhere
is the digital app that simplifies and enhances the digital movie
collection
and viewing experience by allowing consumers to access their favorite
digital movies in one place when purchased or redeemed through
participating digital retailers. Consumers can also redeem digital copy
codes found in eligible Blu-rayTM and DVD disc packages
from participating studios and stream or download them through Movies
Anywhere. MOVIES ANYWHERE is only available in the United States. For
more information, visit
https://moviesanywhere.com.
For artwork, please log onto our website at
www.uphe.com
Copyright: 2017 Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Selection Number:
Layers: DVD 9
Aspect Ratio: 16:9 2.40:1 Anamorphic Widescreen
Rating: Not Rated
Languages/Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish and French (Canadian) Subtitles
Sound: English
Dolby Digital 5.1
Run Time: 1 hour, 28 minutes
About Universal Pictures Home Entertainment
Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (UPHE – www.uphe.com)
is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios.
Universal Studios is a part of NBCUniversal, one of the world’s leading
media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and
marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience.
NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and
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picture company, significant television production operations, a
leading television stations group, world-renowned theme parks, and a
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of Comcast Corporation.
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:
One of my most treasured books in my permanent library at home is the Winner's Game by Kevin Alan Milne. It was in that novel that not only was I introduced to a talented author, but also to the incredible life-changing stories that he could weave through the use of words on a simple piece of paper. They are the kinds of stories that stay with you long after you have put it down. I have to share the one book I will probably buy for all my family members this Christmas and it is The Paper Bag Christmas.
Its a short book, with a lasting message. When two young boys Molar Alan and his brother Aaron are taken to visit Santa Claus late one evening, they are challenged by him despite their lengthy Christmas lists for all the presents that can think of, to take a gift of everything they never wanted. That alone is enough to make most readers want to read this book. I mean, just what does that entail? The boys are taken into confidence by Dr. Ringle, a generous old man who loves to spend time visiting the children in his oncology ward at the hospital and brings the boys along dressed as his elves. Besides handing out the required red paper wish lists and candy canes, each of the boys are tasked with befriending a child in the hospital.
They will spend the next several days acting in Dr. Ringle's absence to break through the barriers each of these children are facing. For Aaron, his is a young boy from India, Madhu, who longs to understand the Jesus of the Bible when faced with Santa Claus. As the upcoming Christmas pageant approaches, he longs to be considered as one of the wise men, and when he learns those have all been filled, he makes a wonderful intelligent plea for them to reconsider more than just three. For Molar, his is the most difficult. Katrina is living on borrowed time. Everyone in her family has already died and now she is a ward of the hospital waiting to see when her last day will come. She is also bitter and wants nothing to do with Christmas. It was something she shared with her grandfather who has died and to enjoy it would feel like she is betraying him. So she remains shut in her room and the only way she will allow visitors is when she is cloaked in a paper bag she wears to cover her face.
I received The Paper Bag Christmas by Kevin Alan Milne compliments of Center Street Publishing, a division of Hachette Book Groups. This is such a wonderful and heartwarming book as you discover deep down inside what will break through each of the children. Despite what you might think more than just one life will be changed through their assigned tasks and the gifts they receive will be priceless in the end. I encourage you all to pick up a copy of this book, and incorporate it into that tradition of storybook time with your children especially at Christmas. This is the one book that your children will want to read again and again, and so will you. I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars and hope you decide to pick it up!
For more information about The Paper Bag Christmas, Kevin Alan Milne or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:
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.
As a Christian, I don't think there isn't anyone who doesn't know Matthew West when it comes to Christian Contemporary Music. I had a chance to meet him a few years ago, and he is as humble and genuine as his music is. The best part of his music is that it is inspired by what people are going through at certain times of their life. As encouragement, as a means of hope, and a reminder of where our faith is. His latest CD, All In is incredible! I found so much hope and it seems as if some songs were written just for me, where I am at in this chapter of my own life.
That is the theme of his music. You feel it is written just for you. You may like one song, one day and a few weeks from now, another song will be your favorite. Because they are written just for you. From the very brokenness in our hearts and souls, he reminds us of what the Bible has to say, about these things as well. In fact some of my Bible Scripture memorization has come from his music. It is hard to forget and more importantly I believe is that it is life changing. From Broken Things which most of us have heard, there are also some new songs that I am sure will also be chart toppers soon.
For me, The Beautiful Things We Miss is by far my favorite on this CD perhaps because it deals personally for me where my life is. After watching one daughter marry last year and another one not too far from doing that as well, I see how things are slipping by too fast and before we know it, those things are long gone. We need to embrace the present so that they don't become the past too quickly and leave us with the regrets we all fear. Life truly is a vapor when you take a look back.
There are 14 songs on his latest CD, All In.
1. All In
2. Broken Things
3. Mercy is a Song
4. Amen
5. The Sound of a Life Changing
6. Something Greater
7. Jesus and You.
8. The Beautiful Things We Miss
9. 1 Song
10. Power Love Sound Mind
11. Never Ever Give Up
12. Dream Again
13. Becoming Me (featuring Lulu West)
14. You are Known
There is something that I know will speak to the heart and soul of everyone who listens to this CD. I received Matthew West: All In compliments of Capital Records, Christian Music Group and FlyBy LLD. This is one of my favorite Christian music CD's this year andI can't wait for you to share in this with me. I would easily give this one a 5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and love the hidden soundtrack at the conclusion of this CD. You won't want to miss it. Thanks to the generosity of Capital Records and FlyBy LLC, they are offering a copy of this CD to one lucky person. Here are your guidelines for entering the giveaway.
3. Be a resident of the US or have a US mailing address. No P.O. Boxes please.
4. Leave a comment below telling me what Matthew West's music has done for you. Don't forget to include your email address so I have a way of contacting you if you are the lucky winner of this giveaway. You can even use the words (at) or (dot) instead of the symbols.
I will email the winner of this giveaway once it ends on September 27th. Don't forget to include your email address since without it, I have no way of contacting you, if you're the winner!
For more information about Matthew West, Capital Records or where you can pick up a copy of this CD today, please click on the links below:
“Disclosure (in accordance with the
FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and
Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting,
LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.
Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by
monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in
exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.If
you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in
the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.Or
if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.
I read on social media somewhere that someone believed that coloring books are dying out. Whether that is true or not, I love coloring. It is a way to pass the time. It allows me to slow down and take a moment to simply breathe, cast aside my worries for a moment and just allow God to speak to me as I color. While there may be a coloring book out there geared for just about everyone and their personal interests, I wanted to share one of my favorites. It is called Here's Some Happy by Gina Graham and it has something unique that most coloring books don't.
First of all, it is hard cover. That is perfect because you don't always have the perfect surface to color on and this make portability while coloring more manageable. I just love the weight of it too! It's solid, a reminder of what my spiritual life should be like. Within this coloring book are plenty of wonderful pictures to color, but also scriptures geared to spark a sense of personal prayer time while meditating on the coloring. This is the perfect time to just escape and get some alone time with God. I love putting on some upbeat praise or worship music while I am working on my pages. This coloring book is meant to be a prayer journal as well. Whether you choose to use a page for every prayer or simply a way of capturing something you feel God is laying on your heart, there is a perfect place to capture that.
When I was selecting my picture to color for this post, I happened upon the Psalm 4:8 "I will both lie down in peace and sleep; For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety." This is perfect for me, as I have been dealing with a horrible case of tonsillitis for three weeks and sleep has been skipping me. Not only that but with all the flooding in Texas, its a reminder that while I have a place to lay down that is warm and dry, many tonight don't. They have lost everything. But as children of God, we know that there isn't anything God can't do. He can move financial resources where they are best needed and even material things can be replaced. Perhaps it was His way of waking the world up to what is important in this life. Life. Not things. Not money. Not our jobs but those we love and who love us. This journal entry I made was my personal prayer for those in Texas, a reminder that we still serve a God who cares and has not left them. New days are coming and with it, the promises of His unfailing love and provision.
I received Here's Some Happy by Gina Graham compliments of Faith Words, a division of Hachette Book Groups. This is such a great way to keep all those Scriptures, thoughts and prayers in one place and you can look back to see how God has answered those needs as He reminds us to stay faithful. There is something fun in this journal for everyone to enjoy. I could even see doing this with your children together and adding both of your prayers as a way of teaching them how to journal and use their creativity at the same time. What a great gift as well to someone who could use a little happiness in their life right about now. The pages are single sided so depending on the type of media you use, it might bleed through. I use Prisma Coloring Pencils so I had no issues. I would easily give this a 5 out of 5 stars.
For more information about Here's Some Happy, Gina Graham or where you can pick up a copy of this coloring journal today, please click on the links below:
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:
It seems like there is a coloring book to suit every interest and genre and while most started out for just children, now adults are experiencing a sense of peace and creativity in coloring as well. Whether you are a kid or a kid at heart, I believe you will love The Parables of Jesus Coloring Book Devotional by Laura James and Katara Washington Patton. This is something a bit different than your standard coloring book because while there are only 46 illustrations to color, the remainder is a devotional based on the parables of Jesus found in the Bible.
Each of the 46 illustrations takes Scripture directly from the Bible and applies it to real world learning, like struggling with a difficult boss at work and how we can use this to help us not only get through the situation like God would plan for us, but also incorporating prayer into as well to remind us not only to pray for our own situation but for others as well. Some of the lessons focus on Being Humble, Building a Solid Foundation, Dealing with Debt, Being Aware, Reminding Us About Our Treasures Being Stored in Heaven, Bearing Fruit, When Weeds Grow and so many others,
I chose A Fine Pearl to focus on from Matthew 13:45-46. It illustrates not only where pearls are formed and found, but understanding how Jesus uses this illustration pertaining to the Kingdom of God. A person who harvests pearls know when he has found a rare and perfect one, like the hidden treasure it was until it is opened and revealed, much like us. We fail often times to find value in ourselves, but we need to understand how precious we are to God and how important our relationship is with Him to secure our eternity with Him. It isn't something that can be bought or sold. Are you willing to do what is necessary to secure your eternal future? What are some of the things you need to rid yourself of to better enjoy the Kingdom of God today? Then a beautifully illustrated picture follows so you can focus on finding the beauty in what you color and create.
I received The Parables of Jesus by Laura James and Katara Washington Patton compliments of FaithWords, a division of Hachette Book Groups.In
accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements,
you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The
Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the
author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. The best part of this coloring book is that each image is one sided so that when you use a media form that bleeds through like markers, as long as you add a blank piece of paper in between, you don't ruin other pages in this book. Crayons and Coloring Pencils will not have any issue with bleeding through the pages. What a great way to get some devotional time in while also enjoying the tranquility of coloring as well. I'd give this book a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion.
For more information about The Parables of Jesus Coloring Book and Devotional and where to pick one up today, please click on the links below:
When you look around in the world today, what do you think of when you consider God? Do you think of beautiful sunrises or sunsets? How about the wonder of a bird taking flight? Perhaps it is a field of colorful flowers of every shape and size? Or the beautiful stained glass windows in a church that reflect the colors from the sun? Or even the laughter of a child? Within each of us, we can see evidence of God's creative power in the world around us in unique ways and Robin Mead has brilliantly captured that in Joyful Inspirations Coloring Book.
Beautiful illustrations capture the beauty in the world around us in coloring pages we can make our own using various types of media from crayons, coloring pencils, gel pens or you name it. There are 96 pages of pages for you to color including the types I have mentioned above and more coupled with beautiful biblical scriptures to invoke a sense of beauty and peace. What better way to take a moment to slow down from our busy days and just appreciate all the God have so abundantly blessed us with. We don't live in a world of black and white but vibrant and brilliant colors.
I think this is a perfect way to simply take some time for yourself and spend time coloring and reflecting on those beautiful biblical promises. Maybe even grab your kids and teens and have a coloring day and post the pictures prominently on your refrigerator or even frame some. This are simply ways to remind you of the beauty that is all around us each day and so often we are too busy that we fail to take time and smell the flowers or even catch our breath as busy moms, and women!
I received Joyful Inspirations Coloring Book by Robin Mead compliments of Faith Words, a division of Hachette Book Groups. In
accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements,
you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The
Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the
author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. I would recommend not using markers in this coloring book as the pages have print on both sides. Some markers might bleed through and compromise the illustration on the reverse side. I used Prisma Coloring Pencils on mine and had no issue. Crayons and some gel pens might work depending on their absorption rate, so use caution when coloring in them. For that reason I give this coloring book a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion just because of the issue with having bleed through issues. Would love to see single page illustrations to prevent that from ruining other pages you might want to color. Simply using other media forms would prevent that as well.
For more information about Joyful Inspirations Coloring Book, Robin Mead or where you can pick up a copy of this coloring book today, please click on the links below:
I have been a fan of coloring my entire life and love that coloring books are making a comeback and not just for kids either. You can find coloring books on virtually any subject or genre and even some of your favorite movies have spawned their own coloring books as well. Something as simple but meaningful is a coloring book designed not only for moms, but to encourage moms during their day. What better way to spend some quality time coloring with your kids or teens and having a wonderful coloring book that celebrates motherhood is A Giving Heart by Stephanie Corfee.
These coloring pages are beautifully illustrated to capture all kinds of things that celebrate being a mom. Some of these are beautiful quotes from various speakers and even Scriptures that capture the beauty, strength and essence of being a mom. This would make a wonderful gift for that creative and artistic mom who is looking for something beautiful and unique. There is even a dedication page that you can fill out to give to that special mom in your life. Some quotes include ones from such notables like Billy Graham, Abraham Lincoln, Mother Teresa, Michael O. Adesanya, Edwin Hubbell Chapin and so many others.
What I absolutely LOVE about A Giving Heart is that each page is uniquely separated by blank pages or a simple quote on the reverse side. This is really exceptional because so many coloring books print on both sides and depending on the media source you use to color your pages with, some may bleed through, like markers. I find that even using a spare piece of paper helps to prevent bleed through on some markers no matter how lightly you use them.
I received A Giving Heart: A Coloring Book Celebrating Motherhood by Stephanie Corfee compliments of Faith Words, a division of Hachette Book Groups. In
accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements,
you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The
Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the
author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. I love using all kinds of things to color with and perhaps my new found favorite is Prisma coloring pencils because they don't bleed through the pages and the ability to blend your colors together makes shading and highlighting so much easier. For me, I will use this whenever I simply need to take a breather in my day, perhaps taking on too much and the need to slow down, coloring helps. I easily give this coloring book a 5 out of 5 stars.
For more information about A Giving Heart: A Coloring Book Celebrating Motherhood, Stephanie Corfee or where you can pick up this coloring book today, please click on the links below:
One of the best places I love to go to gain some peace and perspective is the beach. There is something calming, mesmerizing, and relaxing watching the waves splash along the sand, the saltiness of the breeze and laughter of children. Its a place where we can let go of the stress and just let go of our daily worries. Sadly many people are landlocked and few have actually visited a real beach so these experiences are not commonly shared but often times have lakes or rivers they visit. The experience is relatively the same.
Jedd and Todd Hafer have written a wonderful devotional called A Day at the Beach with daily inspirations to help you relax, reflect and renew yourself. Each devotional carries with it a Bible verse and how we can simply change our attitudes to help reflect the peace that God can provide. So many of the best things in life are willing to wait for us. Perhaps this is God's way of telling us to embrace the anticipation rather than fight it. To surf with the tide rather than swim against it. To let the journey unfold on its own schedule so it can be savored. Good advice for the beach to road trips and for life itself. You can refresh your soul and encounter God even if there isn't an ocean in the picture.
This devotional is filled with a collection of personal accounts, intriguing beach trivia, and even a fable or two. It is geared to help your reading to be as refreshing as a day at the beach, offering soothing waters for your mind and sunshine for your soul. There are devotionals reminding us about the importance of being unplugged, which seems to be common place, that we simply forget about the things and people around us because we are caught up in social media, texting and our smart phones. People seem to use the phrase that they are simply, "too busy to find time to spend with God," but the truth is if we simply set our phones to vibrate, we can let go and find quality time in our days to get things done and enjoy those around us more and spend time with God in our devotionals or Bible reading. These are short and sweet but pack a lot of things to consider and hopefully give the reader a break for all the things that can drive us crazy.
I received A Day at the Beach by Jedd and Todd Hafer compliments of Tyndale House Publishers. In
accordance with the new FTC Guidelines for blogging and endorsements,
you should assume that every book reviewed here at Reviews From The
Heart was provided to the reviewer by the publisher, media group or the
author for free and were received, unless specified otherwise. Some of the topics include, Making the Ordinary Extraordinary, Nothing Ever Happens on "Someday," Ocean Baptism, A Sail With Attitude, The Throwaway Ritual, Uses for Sand, Thanks for Nothing and so many more. There are 70 devotions tucked inside a beautiful orange soft cover that is so cool to tuck away into your purse or beach bag. This would make the perfect graduation gift or even something to use to have a short Bible devotion the next time you are at the beach or lake. The topics are perfect for discussion to utilize ways to make our days a bit more stress-free and relaxing. I easily give this a 5 out of 5 stars and now have to find a way to get it back from my 18-year-old daughter who took it to a beach birthday party for her Christian friends.
For more information about A Day at the Beach, Jedd and Todd Hafer or where you can pick up a copy of this devotional today, please click on the links below:
It's something all of us want to believe exists and even hope that we will enter into if we die after this life on earth. There have been numerous books written from those who have died and come back, all conveying similar experiences. So what would make any other book different? I would challenge you to read, Life After Heaven by Steven R. Musick and see how you feel after you read it.
Like all the other books, Steven R. Musick did die and went to heaven. First entering through the tunnel of light and entering into what he believes is heaven. He walked with a man who he believes was Jesus and discussed all the things that had happened in his life up to the point of his death and how God worked in situations he may not have recognized. He conveyed to Steven that it's not really about what good we do for others but how God can use any and all circumstances in our life to further His plan in our lives and those whom our lives come into contact with, like ripples in the pond. Sadly Jesus told him that he wasn't there to stay and within minutes was back in his old body away from heaven and Jesus. He explains it simply as "the experience to taking a kid to Disneyland, letting him ride just one ride, and then tossing him back in the car without explanation, a profound sense of loss." In fact Steven would go on to keep his life after death experience a secret for almost a decade, but during those years, he attempted to discover why Jesus told him he wouldn't stay.
When he returned to his body, he discovered that the years in front of him would be the ultimate test f his faith as he suffered from a decrease in lung capacity by 60% and every breath of air would be a truly gift from God. All his future plans were simply re-written and now he would have to find a new beginning with his wife and soon to be family of sons, ones he simply couldn't play with due to his own physical limitations. He wondered why his prayers would go unheeded by God for healing. "Many people - and I was one of them - equate God's work of healing us or giving to us with the prosperity gospel. That's a false notion that God exists to benefit us and give us what we want. That couldn't be further from the truth. But an opposite mistake of equal danger is to think that God is dome kind of sour pragmatist who only gives something to you with divine strings attached. God does not exist for our appeasement. Nor does he find some excuse outside of pure love to give something good to us. He is a father. He loves to give things to his kids. Things we need. Things that make us joyful. Things that are good."(pg 113).
I received Life After Heaven by Steven R. Musick compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers. This goes beyond all the other books I have read on life after death on those believers and even non-believers that have seen what they believe is Heaven. This takes things a bit further. What does someone who has seen Heaven do when they come back? Are they changed for the better by having seen eternity? I believe that Steven has taken on God's challenge as he explains, "The economics of the kingdom of heaven are upside down: giving is better than getting, death can be life, life as the world sees it can be death, loss can be gain, gain can be loss. God's kingdom often flips the way we do little things upside down. In our culture we insulate ourselves in all kinds of ways. We cocoon. When the situation calls for it, God's volunteers needs to be able to strip away the cultural things to keep people apart." (pg 135).
I found myself challenged to really take my own personal relationship with God to a much deeper level than simply going through the bland Christian lifestyle, going to church, reading the Bible and praying when I remembered. This made me want to really understand what it means to connect with God more intimately and understand why I am here at all. "In terms of life on earth, I still have a retirement account," as Steve would say. "My purpose is to make my death worth living for. I mourn for what we're missing here on earth. I mourn for the things God offers here that we somehow choose not to appropriate. I mourn for the fullness we ignore, the love we don't recognize, the power and joy just waiting to be picked up by us. I would like to help everyone I can to receive a full measure of what's offered."( pg 141). I encourage you to pick this book up today and see for yourself what God's calling you to do with your life. You just might be surprised at what you find tucked inside and the reason I give this a 5 out of 5 stars.
For more information about Life After Heaven, Steven R. Musick, or where you can preorder a copy of this book today due out on March 7, 2017, please click on the links below:
"We say it all the time. Our Instagram feeds are full of picturesque scenes where the light shines just perfectly so our go-to filter makes our surroundings look like they came from something out of Tolkien novel. We talk to our coworkers about our beautiful adventures outside of work, we tell the most adorable stories of our children, and we make sure we humblebrag about the sweet, romantic gesture our husbands made last weekend.
"But no one sees the fight you two had before he got you those flowers. No one sees you losing your temper after your kids kept banging on the bathroom door asking for a snack - because apparently using the bathroom in peace is an outrageous request. No one sees how hard you fought to get out of bed under the crushing weight of depression, and no one is there to watch you try to picture your life after a terrifying diagnosis. When the entire world seems to be embroiled in war, injustice, and disease, it can be hard to see real beauty anywhere - despite the perfect image we curate online."
"We like on an unwell earth, and each moment of brokenness only serves to remind us of that fact. Any attempt at finding hope, beauty, or anything remotely good to cling to can sometimes feel like an impossible task. But you and I serve a big God. We serve a God who can't be held back by what ails this earth. We serve a God who promises to give us a "crown of beauty instead of ashes" (Isaiah 61:3)."
"Still in the midst of the brokenness of this world, that can be hard to remember. The hope for this book is that, as you color and meditate on the words, you are gently reminded of the beauty that can still be found in the bleakest of moments and that this book becomes a bit of a lifeline to remind you our Savior is always there with us. This book reminds you that He has the power to redeem every moment of our lives. Yes, this world is broken, but our Jesus is not."
WaterBrook Multnomah has published Everything Beautiful, a coloring book for inspiration and reflection with illustrations by a variety of artists on each page. On one page is a beautiful illustration to color while on the back of the page is a Bible verse or description as to where the illustration was inspired from, such a hymn or a well known person like Helen Keller who was inspirational in what they did or how they lived.
There are 45 individual illustrations to color and even more is a Spotify playlist called "Everything Beautiful" which you can play while you color or even when you need a pick me up to your day. It is a reminder that God has made everything, including YOU, beautiful. The pages are also perforated to allow you to remove them to make coloring the full page much easier whether you are a lefty or a righty! The only issue I had with this coloring book is that I wish there were blank sides to the page to prevent bleed through depending on the type of media you are using to color like markers or some gel pens. I received Everything Beautiful compliments of WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers. I would rate Everything Beautiful a 4.5 out of 5 stars in my opinion and would be a great gift to anyone who needs to be reminded that in Everything, God has a plan and a purpose.
For more information about Everything Beautiful, WaterBrook Multnomah Publishers or where to pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:
It is easy to lose the real meaning of Christmas, as you enter into the end of November and December, with all the focus on the busyness of the season. From buying gifts, traveling, cooking, and making preparations, it seems it is over before we know it. I found a great new book, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Ace Collins, that incorporates some historical facts about Christmas traditions, amazing recipes, homemade crafts, the stories behind our time honored favorite Christmas carols, and of course the Biblical Scriptures for 30 days so you can keep Christ in Christmas all month long.
This is by far, one of my most favorite books because there is so much tucked into a small but precise book to help you understand not only why we incorporate certain things like Christmas trees, candy canes, the Yule Log, and even Santa Claus himself. All of these traditions had their basis in Christian foundations and not based on worldly values so that you can pass the historical facts along with your family and friends this Christmas season.
There are so many great recipes to add to your holiday baking that it makes gift giving a snap and gives you some fresh ideas that are simple and easy to make such as Pecan Snowball cookies, Gingerbread Hot Chocolate Mix, Snickers Cookie Bars, Eggnog Snickerdoodles and so much more. Along with that is the ideas for some homemade gifts that keep expenses down but add an entirely different element to your gift giving this year. Some ideas are Lavender Bath Salts in a Jar, Lime Mint Foot Scrub, Garlic Infused Olive Oil, Cookie Butter, Personal Photo Coasters, Lemon Beeswax Candles and so many more ideas that you can use these ideas not just at Christmas, but all year long.
Perhaps my favorite are the stories behind our Christmas traditions and songs, along with the Bible Scriptures that keep the element of Jesus in each day. This is not simply a retelling of the Christmas story we are all use to in Luke 2, but takes into consideration the reason for the wisemen's gifts to Jesus, how Christmas is tied to Easter, what the significance is to using X-mas over Christmas, and so much more.
I received The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Ace Collins compliments of Abingdon Press and Litfuse Publicity. This will now be part of my preparations of Christmas and in sharing all this historical facts with my family and friends through the month of December, all packed into a 30 day devotional or advent celebration. It gives you time to slow down some of the busyness of the Christmas season and reflect on what it really means to celebrate this time of the year but also the why's behind it all. I can't think of a better way to countdown this Christmas than with this book and it makes a great gift to give this year as well! I know I plan on picking up quite a few copies to tuck beneath our tree and to give to those who need some hope this Christmas. I would rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars because there is so much packed into this book but also there is something for everyone. It will be hard to think of Christmas the same way again!
For more information about The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Ace Collins, or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:
Make this upcoming Christmas holiday a Christ-filled season of joy and wonder with the help of Ace Collins' new devotional, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year. From December to New Year’s Eve, reawaken the Christmas season with daily scripture and inspirational readings of stories behind popular Christmas traditions, carols and movies. Enjoy a wealth of fun activities to help make the most of the season, including heartwarming holiday recipes and homemade gift ideas.
Join Ace's Christmas festivities by entering to win the Magic of Christmas Prize Pack. Create new traditions this holiday season with your family and friends with the goodies included in the giveaway.
Some of life's best memories are made at the beach: the boat rides and the waterskiing, the smell of saltwater in your hair, those early-morning walks when the beach is quiet. So many memories remain vivid, even after the last laundry load is washed and summer settles into fall. Living and experiencing every moment created lasting memories of the beach. You heard, saw, smelled, tasted, and touched different things every day, and they all combined to form some of your life's best memories.
You may not be able to live at the beach 365 days a year. Your home may be in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania or the cornfields of Wisconsin. You might live in a city amidst skyscrapers and office buildings or in the suburbs of west Michigan. Wherever your home lies, even if it's not by the beach, you can still make and incorporate this ideas and memories into each and even day. That is where "Life is Better At The Beach" by Christina Vinson comes into play. This adorable and whimsical hardcover book is inspiration for living each day like you're at the beach. One of my favorite places to be of all time.
There are 15 Beach Rules and not only are they followed by wonderful beach seascapes but also with a quote or Scripture verse that applicably applies to the beach rule. Such as beach rule # 4, Look for Seashells. "If you have ever looked for seashells by the ocean, you know that the best shells aren't always visible - they're often in the water. And in order to walk home with your hands full of unique sea souvenirs, you need to get wet. Sometimes that may feel like a risk.
Getting wet doesn't always seem appealing. Perhaps it's a rainy day, or maybe you aren't dressed appropriately for the water, or maybe the water is a tad chilly. But to find something good, you need to venture in. Sure, there's a big possibility there won't be any shells when you wade in. But then again, there just might be.
This rings true over and over in life, doesn't it? The biggest opportunities may look a little daunting, whether it's introducing yourself to a new friend, applying for a new job, taking that evening class, or trying to patch up a broken relationship.
Maybe you don't feel qualified, the risk seems too big, or perhaps you're just plain shaking-in-you-flip-flops afraid. It's okay to feel those feelings. But what if giving into your fears means you miss what is perhaps the most beautiful shell you've ever seen? You won't find it scanning the edges of the water or walking on dry land. Getting wet will often feel daunting, but you may emerge with a treasure in the end." (pg 43).
I received Life Is Better At The Beach by Christina Vinson compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers for my honest review. I did not receive any monetary compensation, aside from a copy of the novel in exchange for my unbiased and personal evaluation. Being born and raised at the beach, my heart is always at peace whenever I hear the ocean call or smell the salty air. Peace inevitably follows. This is such a wonderful way to incorporate all those beach memories into life applications that can make your day a whole lot less stressed and enable you to remember what is important and to keep on creating those memories wherever you are. For me, this book rated a 5 out of 5 stars and I love all the ocean and beach analogies that apply to every single thing in my day.
For more information about Life Is Better At The Beach, Christina Vinson or where you can pick up a copy of this book today, please click on the links below:
