Giveaway: Digital Viewing My Brother's Keeper movie #MyBrothersKeeperMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Last night, I watched another fantastic faith-based movie.  This one deals with some heavy, real life issues - like PTSD in our veterans when they return from deployment, the harsh realities of gangs, drugs, suicidal thoughts, racism, and struggling with your faith.  The focus is on a veteran struggling with PTSD and his faith, after losing his best friend in combat, and both parents in a car accident.  Throughout the film, however, there is the hopeful message of God's grace and salvation. 

The movie features Keshia Knight Pulliam (The Cosby Show), T.C. Stallings (War Room, A Question of Faith), Joey Lawrence (Melissa and Joey), and Robert Ri’chard (One on One).  It's from the writer of A Question of Faith, and written/produced by Ty Manns, a veteran and father of active duty sons.  It was filmed in Columbus, Georgia and Fort Benning.  

There are some intense scenes, but it's been rated on Dove.org as appropriate for ages 12 and up.  It will definitely give you the opportunity to discuss some of these issues with your kids as you watch together.  I liked that this movie offers important, hopeful messages on the reality of PTSD in our returning war veterans.  It's an important issue that isn't talked about often enough. 

Check out the movie trailer here.

It was compelling and I'm so glad I had the opportunity to preview it.  I am happy to have a digital viewing code to give away (though it will be after the film is released to home entertainment - so it will be a bit of a wait) 

You can also catch it in theaters this weekend! Check the link for theaters showing it - there are several in the metro Atlanta area.  

You can enter the giveaway through my rafflecopter widget below!   Thank you for stopping by, and taking time to read this and enter! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Many thanks to Collide Distribution for providing this product/product information for review. 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.

Church People Film giveaway! #ChurchPeopleFilm #ChurchPeopleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Hey y'all!! Today I get to share a really fun movie with an important message, too!  And one of you will win a digital code to view it from home, as well! We can all use a laugh after the year we've had, am I right?  CHURCH PEOPLE will keep you laughing! 

CHURCH PEOPLE

IN THEATERS SAT, MAR 13, SUN, MAR 14, MON, MAR 15

First, let me say that this movie has an awesome cast! NSYNC's Joey Fatone, Christian Comedian Thor Ramsey, Michael Monks, The Hallmark Channel's Erin Cahill, Donald Faison, Stephen Baldwin, plus Clancy McCartney, William Baldwin and Chynna Phillips. 

A heartfelt and laugh-out-loud faith-based comedy film, CHURCH PEOPLE is the story of real people with real struggles and their unique paths to discovering what faith in Jesus is all about. It all starts when “America's youth pastor,” Guy Sides, realizes he’s stuck in the megachurch marketing machine and wants to find his passion again.

But when Guy attempts to get back to the heart of ministry, he is thrust into the throes of dissuading his zany church leadership from performing a strange and potentially blasphemous stunt for the upcoming Easter service while navigating his own personal problems. CHURCH PEOPLE exposes the wacky heights some people will go in the evangelical subculture while revealing God’s out-of-this-world grace through a poignantly redemptive climax.   CHURCH PEOPLE is a powerful message about rediscovering your passion for Christ and learning to surrender what you hold dearest, all told in a redemptively humorous way.

Visit the official website by clicking here.

You can see this movie next weekend at local theaters.  Or your church can host a viewing by visiting this site to sign up!

Locally, it will be playing at these theaters:

AMC Sugarloaf Mills 18

5900 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA 30043-7857

AMC Avenue Forsyth 12

350 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041

AMC Barrett Commons 24

2600 Cobb Place Lane NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144

You can purchase your tickets here. 

View the movie trailer here...

You can also download a CHURCH PEOPLE Discussion Guide here. 

Endorsements: 

“CHURCH PEOPLE was a complete surprise for me. I had no expectations whatsoever, and I was totally shocked when I absolutely loved the movie. I was inspired. I laughed, and then I laughed some more.  Thor Ramsey was phenomenal and his performance brought light to the dark times many of us have been going through. I can't recommend this movie more. As a matter of fact, if you're going, buy me a ticket and I’ll go see it again with you. Chuck and I have always believed that Christian film needs to elevate it's game. That it needs to be great. It needs to be fruit that if you lay it at the altar, God would be pleased. I believe that CHURCH PEOPLE has accomplished this. No higher compliment could I give this movie than to say for 90 minutes I was able to get away from the world, and was the better for it. Christopher Shaw's directing work in CHURCH PEOPLE showed passion and love not only for the material but for the cause of Christ. As filmmakers, Chuck and I were inspired by it.”

- Cary Solomon & Chuck Konzelman (Writers & Directors of God’s Not Dead and Unplanned)

“I loved CHURCH PEOPLE! It made me laugh out loud but more importantly, it has a message that

leaves a true impact in your soul.. a perfect watch for this Easter season. If you are seeking something

fun to do with the whole family, make plans to see this movie!”

- Jenn Gotzon (Actress & Producer of “The Farmer and the Belle: Saving Santaland”)

Want to see CHURCH PEOPLE from the comfort of your home?  I can help! I get to draw one lucky winner ~ Simply enter via the Rafflecopter widget below! Thanks for stopping by, and good luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

Disclosure: Many thanks to Collide Distribution for providing this product/product information for review. 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.

Canvas Factory Giveaway!! *ended*

I love taking pictures.  I have so many prints that are waiting to go into scrapbooks.  But some of my favorites get put into frames so I can enjoy them daily.  I also love to have my favorite shots turned into canvas prints.  There is something special about turning your 4x6 photo into a beautiful canvas for your wall.

So....I'm excited to be working with Canvas Factory for another giveaway!

Their website makes it so easy to order your canvas.  Just pick the size you want, upload your photo (from your laptop, phone, Insta, FB, Dropbox or Flickr) and voila - you'll have your beautiful, high-quality canvas in days! The process couldn't get any easier.

The canvas on the bottom normally hangs in my son's room, but I moved it here to show both canvases. 

Close up of the latest canvas on the bottom! 

The two canvases in my pictures are both from Canvas Factory.  The top one is my kids on my daughter's graduation day.  The one resting on the mantle is the latest one I've ordered.  It is of my son and two great friends he met at the Duke TIP summer program last year.  I had to cover the girls' faces since I don't have permission to share them with the world, but you can still see the fantastic quality of the print.  The photo that was used for the canvas was taken on my iPhone, no fancy camera or anything!

I love the quality of my Canvas Factory canvases, and the care they take in shipping them.  It was packaged so carefully and I received it in perfect condition.

Canvas Factory is giving one of my readers their own canvas, too! Just enter through Rafflecopter below and stay tuned to see who wins!!
(I have a new IG so be sure to follow the new one as one of your entries, too!)

Thanks for stopping by!

Medieval Times Atlanta Castle Giveaway and Back to School Drive! #MTFAN *ended*

Medieval Times Atlanta Castle ~ Family 4 pack GIVEAWAY! 

photo credit ~ Medieval Times Atlanta

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament’s Atlanta Castle is dedicated to “Chivalry in Action” and in honor of this philanthropic mission, they need our help for their largest-ever back to school drive.

For the first time ever, they will be providing 750 book bags to 15 pre-selected Atlanta-Area Schools!

So how can you help?  If you are local you can drop off new school supplies at their Sugarloaf Mills location - 5900 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville GA 30043

Now through July 28th, guests who donate at least one unused school supply per ticket when visiting the Atlanta castle will receive up to $22.00 off their adult-priced tickets. Guest must show proof of donated items upon arrival at the Box Office.  Such a great way to help local kids be prepared for back to school! #ChivalryinAction

Want to win a family 4 pack of your own to visit Medieval Times Atlanta?  

Enter via rafflecopter below!! 

The person who will be donating the most supplies to this awesome back to school drive wins the family 4 pack of tickets!! Woohoo! (Minimum of 1 supply per person/ticket)

To be eligible you must be local to Atlanta, and be able to visit Medieval Times by July 28, 2019.  I will notify the winner on the 24th and you have 24 hours to confirm that you can attend.  Of course, you will need to take your school supply donation when you visit MT, too! You'll get a fun night out, and local kids will get much-needed school supplies! 

I'll be attending Medieval Times with my friend Dana and our daughters next week.  Follow me on IG, FB and Twitter to watch all the fun!! I've got some awesome school supplies to donate, too! 

Comments are not working for some reason, so please enter via Rafflecopter and I will pick a winner from there - so sorry for the issues blogger is having! 

Giveaway: Chris Tomlin Holy Roar #HolyRoar #FlyBy

Good morning! How is it November already?!  I am back with a fantastic giveaway and a CD you're going to adore.

I received a copy of Chris Tomlin's new CD, Holy Roar.  I've listened to it quite a lot over the last hectic week, while running errands and even during a quick trip to Northeast Georgia with my family last weekend. These songs offer beautiful reminders of how much God loves each and every one of his children.  Chris's signature style comes through on these songs, and they are exactly what you expect from him - worship and praise music to sing along with wherever you are.

Holy Roar is about the freedom, the experience, the wonder of worship. It is seeing the church come together, hands lifted to God, pouring out our praise with an eternal song in our hearts. It’s every voice together, changing the way we worship.

I'm listening to this CD (again!)  and I can tell you that a few of these songs have quickly become favorites. 

His lyrics are familiar to churchgoers because many of his songs have become standard praise music at our churches.  "At the Cross", "Even So Come", "Home", and so many more of his songs bring us together in worship.  This album will introduce you to new favorites that are sure to be played on your radio and at church.

Chris Tomlin is one of the most heralded singer-songwriters in the world who has amassed an impressive body of work. He has sold more than 8 million albums, 11.3 million digital tracks with 16 #1 singles. Chris is one of only four artists ever to receive the Sound Exchange Digital Radio Award for over 1 Billion digital radio streams, others include Justin Timberlake, Pitbull and Garth Brooks. The Grammy® winner’s list of music awards include an American Music Award, 3 Billboard Music Awards, 21 Dove Awards, a BMI Songwriter of the Year Award and more. Chris’ concert tours have sold-out venues in major cities including New York City’s Madison Square Garden, The Forum in Los Angeles, Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena and Red Rocks in Denver, among others. This spring, Chris marked another career milestone by launching his own imprint record label, Bowyer & Bow, in partnership with Capitol Christian Music Group.

Impressive, right?

Click here to listen to "How Sweet It Is"

I promise this will be a CD you play over and over again, and you will always feel refreshed and uplifted after listening. What a great way to fill your spirit with the promise of God's love for us.  It's so good, y'all.  It's available for purchase here.  This would be a great Christmas gift!

I have a copy to give away, too!  This is a quick turnaround giveaway, so make sure you check your email early next week, as I need my winner's information FAST!

Enter through my rafflecopter widget below and good luck!

Giveaway - ESV Illuminated Bible #FlyBy #ESVIlluminatedBible

Happy Thanksgiving, y'all! I hope your bellies are full, and your hearts even fuller on this day of giving thanks for friends, family and delicious food!
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I wanted to share this gorgeous Illuminated Bible with y'all. It's so pretty, and a lovely way to spend time in God's word.  Here are some pics I took of the copy I received to review:  Click on each picture to see a larger view.

The Illuminated Bible's illustrations are stunning!  And I love that you can color the pictures or leave them as is.  There is plenty of room for journaling in the margins, as well.  

There is someone on your Christmas list who would LOVE this Bible! 

More details about the ESV ILLUMINATED BIBLE:
The ESV Illuminated Bible places the full ESV text alongside over 500 elegantly hand-lettered gold ink illustrations by renowned artist Dana Tanamachi. Printed on thick cream-colored paper, the Bible's single-column text setting and wide margins provide generous space for additional notes, prayers, and designs—inviting readers to creatively engage with and reflect on the beauty of God's Word.

This beautiful Bible includes:
Black letter text, 2-color printing
64 full-page, custom book opener illustrations
50 full-page verse illustrations
250+ hand-lettered margin verses
100+ other illustrations throughout
Illustrated by Dana Tanamachi, whose work has been featured by Google, The Wall Street Journal, Random House, USPS, and Target
Thick, cream-colored paper, wide margins, single-column, paragraph format

Dana Tanamachi is an American lettering artist, graphic designer, and illustrator whose exquisite typographic murals ignited the worldwide chalk-lettering trend.  She has been commissioned by clients such as Instagram, Target, Google, Time Magazine, Nike, and West Elm.
Learn more at tanamachistudio.com.

Where to purchase: Buy it here and here

I hope you enjoyed this sneak peek at the Illuminated Bible! I'm excited to have a copy to give away! Just enter my giveaway via rafflecopter below!

Thanks for stopping by and Good Luck!

Giveaway #GlorySong! from Matt Redman #FlyBy

Happy October! It's so nice outside today, and this is the start of my favorite time of the year!

Today I've got a new giveaway for y'all!

I already enjoy listening to Matt Redman's music - my favorite song of his is "You Never Let Go", and a close second is "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)".  I was thrilled to have the opportunity to check out his brand new CD, Glory Song!, this week! It's loaded with fabulous praise music and makes long car trips and running errands around town so much nicer! "Gospel Song","Greatest Hallelujah",  "One Day (when we all get to Heaven)" & "It is Finished" are my favorite songs on this CD!

About the album:
Matt Redman teamed up with several of his worship-artist friends for this album, first releasing the track “Gracefully Broken (feat. Tasha Cobbs Leonard).” Tasha Cobbs Leonard also released her own version of this song on the same day! The album also features Kierra Sheard, Guvna B, Madison Cunningham, and Kim Walker-Smith.

Gracefully Broken (Lyric Video)
Gracefully Broken (Song Story)

Buy the CD here!

I have one copy of  Glory Song! to give away to one of you.  Enter via rafflecopter below!

Giveaway: 9/11 Film Charlie Sheen Autographed Poster/Gift Pack #Remember911

Everyone has a 9/11 story.  No matter who you are, or where you were, that moment and the aftermath is indelibly etched in everyone's mind. The thing I remember most about being at work that day, besides the obvious, is that our Senior Adults were in for their weekly group which helped get our newsletters in the mail. We noticed that they were all so calm as they worked. Unlike all the rest of us - we were frantically calling family, some of us were crying, all of us praying.  We realized that they were calm because they had LIVED through this before.  They had Pearl Harbor!  So to them, this was tragic, but not unknown. To us, it was unbelievable that terrorists had come to America and done this!

I also remember waking up the next morning - when I opened my eyes I thought, oh my gosh, what an awful nightmare.  Seconds later, I remembered it wasn't a dream at all - it was our new reality. Share your 9/11 memories in the comments below, if you'd like.

This week a new film opens about 9/11 - watch the trailer here:

9/11 opens in theaters on September 8 and features an all star cast including Luis Guzman (The Taking of Pelham 1,2,3), Gina Gershon (Showgirls), Wood Harris (Justified), Jacqueline Bisset (Dancing on the Edge (BBC), Welcome to New York), Olga Fonda (The Vampire Diaries) and Bruce Davison (X-Men).

In the World Trade Center, a billionaire sits in his attorney’s office awaiting a divorce hearing against his wife. In a west side apartment, a bike messenger kisses his 5-year old daughter and sings her “Happy Birthday” before leaving for work. A maintenance man gets dispatched to help a tenant with his lock. In an upper east side apartment, a young model musters the courage to break up with her sugar daddy. As random as random can be, these individuals step into a crowded World Trade Center elevator.

Wrapped up in their own world, they all ride silently hearing only the sound of the elevator giving notice of each floor. When the elevator stops on the 34th floor, it empties leaving only these five behind. Moments later ... their world changes as the collision of a jet into the North Tower incapacitates the elevator.

With no understanding of what has happened and is happening around them, these fives are forced to band together and fight against all odds to escape from the impending horrific collapse. During these critical minutes, a story of courage, faith, and the will to live unfolds.  Find out more about the movie here.



I am giving away a #Remember9/11 Gift Pack that includes a signed poster from Charlie Sheen, a parent's resource guide and a Hope necklace.  Click the Rafflecopter widget below to enter the giveaway!

Giveaway: Nichole Nordeman's Every Mile Mattered CD #EveryMileMattered #flyby

Hey y'all!! Summer is about over, so I'll be back to blogging regularly soon! Lots of reviews to share, so keep an eye out for new posts!

In the meantime, here's a great giveaway for the fabulous new CD from Nichole Nordeman.

I received her new CD, Every Mile Mattered, about a week ago, and I've really enjoyed listening to these gorgeous songs. I've been a fan of Nichole's since I got her album Woven & Spun about 15 years ago. "Legacy" is one of my favorite songs ever! She has a sweet, ethereal voice that brings her lyrics to life. Some of them really get to you! If you haven't heard "Slow Down", well.....here ya go, I can wait! (Grab some tissues first!)



See why I was thrilled to have the opportunity to check out Nichole's newest album, Every Mile Mattered?  She is such a talented singer!  The title song is breathtaking (and my favorite).  Here is the official video so you can have a listen:



The rest of the songs on her CD are just as good.  I really liked "Lean", "Dear Me", and "You're Here".  I played them over and over in my car - this is one I'll be playing for years!  I enjoy listening to worship and praise music while out and about, and this CD is totally a keeper!!

You can find Every Mile Mattered on iTunes and Spotify  online.

Nichole has a great website, with a free newsletter you can sign up for.  You can listen to some of her songs on there, find out tour dates, and learn about the new book she has coming out later this month! (Which you can pre-order here)

I have a copy of this wonderful CD to give away to one of my readers.  Enter via my rafflecopter widget below.

I always love when you share my posts with the social media buttons on here, too - thanks in advance, and good luck!

MAX 2: White House Hero Blu-Ray Combo Pack giveaway!!

**“Warner Bros. Home Entertainment provided me with a free copy of the Blu-ray I reviewed in this Blog Post. The opinions I share are my own.”**

Man's Best Friend Is The Country's Biggest Hero!



"MAX 2: White House Hero": The All-New Original Movie Is Available on DVD, Blu-ray™ Combo Pack NOW!

Duty calls again, and our hero dog Max returns to action in "Max 2: White House Hero." His new assignment brings him to Washington, D.C. to serve on the President's Secret Service detail. When a foreign leader arrives with his precocious daughter Alex (Francesca Capaldi), tensions arise between both countries. First Son TJ (Zane Austin), along with Max and Alex, uncover a dangerous plot that puts both kids and both nations in jeopardy. A highly-sensitive mission will push Max’s specialized skills, intelligence and loyalty to the test.

Visit the Max 2: White House Hero Website: http://max-themovie.com/ 
Follow Max on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaxMovie

We just got the DVD in the mail today, so we're looking forward to enjoying it on this long holiday weekend!

Check out the RUN GAME Blog app below and help Max save TJ and Alex!!
Click anywhere on the game screen to jump over obstacles and make your best time. You can also watch the trailer and then buy Max 2: White House Hero on DVD & Blu-ray May 23.


 

I have a copy of this awesome family-friendly Blu-Ray Combo pack to give away!
It's easy to enter through the rafflecopter widget below! Good luck! (Don't forget to share this contest using the social media share buttons below!)

Mandisa #OutOfTheDark CD Giveaway #FlyBy

Hey guys!  I had to take some time off from blogging - it's been a very busy few months here. But I am back with a fantastic giveaway for you.

Have you heard the new song from Mandisa called "Unfinished"?  It's getting lots of airplay here in Atlanta. Super catchy, but also very inspiring.  My son and I saw her on tour with Toby Mac and others back in March, and she talked a little about how this album came to be,  and then sang this new song.



Mandisa wrote her song “Overcomer” in 2013 to encourage her close friend Kisha, who was battling breast cancer. Mandisa really believed and prayed that God was going to heal her, but when Kisha went to be with Jesus in 2014, Mandisa’s foundation was shaken in a way she never expected. She fell into a deep pit of depression for close to 3 years, shutting out her friends, family and the rest of the world.

Mandisa believes if she had kept going down that road she was on, she would not be here today… but God stepped in and lifted her out of that pit by using her close friends to communicate their love for her and God’s love for her. This album is Mandisa’s way of letting her fans into her story – it’s called 'Out Of The Dark' because that is exactly where God lifted her out of!

You can watch her talk openly about this on Good Morning America by clicking here.

Mandisa shares the story behind the album:



I've been such a fan of Mandisa ever since I watched her on American Idol. She is a beautiful, confident woman - and what a voice!  "Overcomer" is one of my favorite songs ever, and "Good Morning" is my ringtone!   Both are such encouraging, happy songs. I believe you'll agree that this CD is full of awesome encouragement, too - It's what Mandisa does best! These are honest, touching songs and they will inspire and revitalize you.  I was able to listen to this on a recent road trip and before I knew it, I was singing along!  It's a great album!

You can buy "Out of the Dark' by clicking here .  It's also available on Amazon.

I'm thrilled that I get to give away a copy of this CD to one of you! Just enter through my Rafflecopter widget below.  Good luck and thanks for entering!

Giveaway: I'm Going to Give You a Bear Hug #BearHugs #FlyBy

I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug!, written by bestselling author Caroline B. Cooney, is a playful and comforting bedtime book that imagines all the wonderful ways a child might give and receive a hug.

Whether it’s a big bear, gasp for air, knock over a chair hug or a wet and drippy, slimy, slippy fish hug, children will giggle their way through all the imaginative examples. Cooney’s sweet and simple rhymes encourage playful interaction between parent and child and ultimately help them wind down before they snuggle into bed and drift off to sleep.

I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug is a sweet, loving bedtime story book that is also sure to become a Valentine’s Day favorite for little ones who enjoy celebrating a day full of hugs and kisses from loved ones. I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug will be available in hardcover for $16.99 in retail stores nationwide.

This book is adorable.  I loved the illustratons showing all different types of hugs!  It's fun, silly, and sweet.  The pictures are precious and complement the silly rhymes and will prepare your kiddos for bedtime and sweet dreams.

About the Author: Caroline B. Cooney was born in New York, grew up in Connecticut, and now lives in South Carolina. Caroline is the author of 90 Young Adult novels in many genres, and her books have sold over fifteen million copies. I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug is her first picture book. It’s based on a verse she wrote for her own children, Louisa, Sayre and Harold, who are grown now.

About the Illustrator: Tim Warnes has been illustrating children's books for twenty years. He lives in Dorset, England, with his wife, children's illustrator Jane Chapman, and their two sons. When he's not drawing little critters, Tim loves to write, watch birds and play his banjo.  Visit Tim at www.ChapmanandWarnes.com

Zonderkidz™, the children’s division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through imagination and innovation. As the leader in Christian children's communications, it creates products that awaken the hearts and touch the souls of kids under 14. Zonderkidz is also publisher of the NIrV (New International Reader’s Version) Bible translation, the third grade reading level edition of the NIV. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com.

Zondervan is a world-leading Bible publisher and provider of Christian communications. Zondervan, as part of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., delivers transformational Christian experiences through its bestselling Bibles, books, curriculum, academic resources and digital products. The Company’s products are sold worldwide and translated into nearly 200 languages. Zondervan offices are located in Grand Rapids, MI. For additional information, please visit www.zondervan.com.

Want to win a copy of this for your family?  Enter through my rafflecopter widget below!

Giveaway ~ The Canvas Factory

I was offered an opportunity to receive a printed 16 x 20 canvas from The Canvas Factory recently, and I was happy to try them out.

I had a hard time choosing the perfect picture to use! After going through many of mine,  I also looked through the stock pictures that The Canvas Factory had available - there are cityscapes, landscapes, all sorts of beautiful images you can choose!  In the end, I settled on one with both of my kids at my daughter's graduation.

It's hanging in my hallway, so it's hard to get a good picture of it.  But the quality is fantastic and I really love my canvas!

Wrapping inside the box - it was well protected!

Once I ordered, it took about a month to receive my canvas.  It was packaged very well, and looks fantastic!  I will definitely order from them again!

I've got a canvas from The Canvas Factory to give away to one of you, too!  All you need to do is enter through my Rafflecopter widget giveaway below....

Giveaway - Where Jesus Slept #WhereJesusSlept #FlyBy

Can y'all believe Thanksgiving is NEXT WEEK!? Then the Christmas hustle and bustle begins. Even though my kids are older, I still keep a shelf of Christmas books out for the months of November and December.  Sometimes when things get crazy, I'll sit on the couch and read one or two of them by the glow of the Christmas tree lights, just enjoying the peace and quiet for a bit. Christmas is my favorite holiday of the year and I enjoy finding new Christmas books to add to our holiday bookshelf.

I was able to review a new hardcover children's book that is for sure going to be on my holiday shelf from now on!  It's called Where Jesus Slept, and it has the most darling illustrations (look at that precious Baby Jesus on the cover!) and the sweetest rhymes that tell the story of the first Christmas.  I absolutely love it.   I think y'all will enjoy it too!

Here's a little more about the book:

"This is the bed where Jesus slept. This is the straw that lined the bed where Jesus slept.” From here, the story builds with each spread, adding a new element and explaining the relationships among the participants and witnesses to the first Christmas. From Jesus sleeping sweetly to the wise men bringing gifts, this charming book reminds readers young and not-so-young of the joyous event we celebrate at Christmastime. Children will love the delightful illustrations and the engaging repetition in this cumulative tale.

About the author:
Norma Lewis is the author of ten books. She lives in Grand Haven, MI, with a marmalade cat named Scalawag. They both love spending time with her six grandchildren, ranging in age from three to twenty.    Illustrated by Katy Hudson.

It's perfect for ages 4-7 and retails for $16.99.  It will surely become a Christmas must-read for your family too!



I have a copy of Where Jesus Slept to give away to one of my readers!  Just enter via my rafflecopter widget below.

Don't forget - you have to leave a comment below this post as your mandatory entry. Without that, no other entries will count, so you won't be eligible to win if you don't complete that mandatory entry.

Remember to share this post with your family and friends using the share buttons at the bottom of this post under my signature!  Good luck!

Giveaway ~ PARENTING: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family #GospelParenting #FlyBy

I've got another book to share with y'all and a giveaway, as well.  This book is excellent, and I can't wait to tell you about it!

Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family is a wonderful resource for Christian parents.

In the midst of folding laundry, coordinating carpool schedules, and breaking up fights, many parents get lost. Feeling pressure to do everything “right” and raise up “good” children, it’s easy to lose sight of our ultimate purpose as parents in the quest for practical tips and guaranteed formulas.

In this life-giving book, Paul Tripp offers parents much more than a to-do list. Instead, he presents us with a big-picture view of God’s plan for us as parents. Outlining fourteen foundational principles centered on the gospel, he shows that we need more than the latest parenting strategy or list of techniques. Rather, we need the rescuing grace of God—grace that has the power to shape how we view everything we do as parents.  Freed from the burden of trying to manufacture life-change in our children’s hearts, we can embrace a grand perspective of parenting overflowing with vision, purpose, and joy.

I'm only a few chapters in so far, but this book is just what I needed to read right now.  We all have days where we feel like we're not doing a great job as a parent.

This one passage made such an impact on me: "I am more like my children than unlike them - and so are you.  The reality is that there are few struggles in the lives of my children that aren't in my life as well....This admission transformed my parenting.  Instead of approaching them with self-righteous outrage,  I moved toward them as a sinner in need of grace, needing to confront a sinner in need of grace."  WOW, right?!

Oh, this book is making me examine how I parent, and how I want/need to change things.  It came at a great time and I'm so thankful for it!

I really recommend this for all parents who are doing their best, yet wondering if that is enough.  The author has some great words of wisdom, and they can transform how we all do this job of parenting. It's a tough job, but remember, God wants to help you every step of the way!

As I mentioned above, I have a copy to give away to one reader.

Simply complete the mandatory entry in my Rafflecopter widget, and then any additional entries you'd like.  Easy peasy!  Good luck!

GIVEAWAY ~ VeggieTales Every Day with God devotional #EveryDaywithGod #FlyBy

Every Day with God is the latest 365-day devotional (one for boys and another for girls) from VeggieTales. The updated content and art offer the perfect opportunity for parent and child to share time together each day. Each entry includes a Bible verse, short devotion, Thought of the Day, and prayer. The content will help children learn more about God and develop a daily practice to keep Him close in their lives. The book is perfect for bedtime reading, family devotion time, or as a fresh way to start each day!

Format: Trade paperback

Page Count: 384

Trim Size: 5 X 7.25

Retail Price: $9.99

Reading Age: 4-7

This little book is absolutely perfect for bedtime! The color illustrations are adorable. I love that they have one for boys and one for girls.  So sweet! Wouldn't this make a great Christmas gift for the sweet littles in your life? 

You can find both books on Amazon:

Boys Devotional

Girls Devotional

One lucky reader will win their choice of either the Boy or Girl devotional book, thanks to my sponsor.  You can enter via the rafflecopter giveaway below.  This giveaway is open to US & Canadian residents.  Good luck! 

Review & Giveaway ~ The Biggest Story DVD & CD #FlyBy #TheBiggestStory

Once upon a time there lived a man and a woman. They were the happiest people on the planet.

True, they were the only people on the planet, but they were still terrifically happy.

Unfortunately, things didn’t stay happy and wonderful for long . . .

The Bible is full of exciting stories that fill children with awe and wonder. But kids need to know how all those classic stories connect to Scripture’s overarching message about God’s glorious plan to redeem his rebellious people.  In The Biggest Story, Kevin DeYoung—a best-selling author and father of six—leads kids and parents alike on an exciting journey through the Bible.

With powerful illustrations by award-winning artist Don Clark, this imaginative retelling of the Bible’s core message—how the Snake Crusher brings us back to the garden—will draw children into the biblical story, teaching them that God's promises are even bigger and better than we think.

This set includes:

The Animated Short Film: Featuring beautifully animated illustrations adapted from the book, The Biggest Story: The Animated Short Film will captivate children and parents alike as they see how all the classic stories in the Bible connect to Scripture’s overarching message about God’s glorious plan to redeem his rebellious people.

The Audio Book: This audio book of The Biggest Story—written and narrated also by the best-selling author Kevin DeYoung—takes kids and adults through the Bible, connecting the dots from the garden of Eden to Christ's death on the cross to the new heaven and new earth.

Kevin DeYoung is senior pastor of University Reformed Church in East Lansing, MI, husband to Trisha, and father to seven children.

I've watched this with my 12 year old, and also with my 5 year old and 7 year old niece and nephew.

My son liked how fast-paced the short film is - each chapter is only a few minutes long.  I loved the bold, bright illustrations, too.  We also enjoy listening to the CD in the car while running errands.

My niece and nephew liked the bright colors and the story.  But being younger, even these short chapters seemed a little long for them.  They both watched the entire film though!

(Affiliate Link)

Awesome news: I have the short film DVD and the audio CD to give away to one of you!

Just enter via the Rafflecopter widget below.  Make sure to complete the mandatory entry so that your bonus entries will count.

Giveaway & Review: We The People Fight Tyranny Game

Hey y'all!

Hope everyone enjoyed the long holiday weekend.  We had my daughter and son-in-law over for a cookout.  After we ate lunch, my daughter, son and I played a super-fun new game that I received to review last week!

We opened the box and set up the board - it's BIG!  There are several different types of cards and several decks of trivia cards as well. (more about these cards below) We started by reading the instructions and picking our colored pawns for playing.  Then David (he was the Game Czar!) chose identity cards for each of us. These cards determine each player's occupation, salary, family members and vehicle for the game.  I was not too happy with my card - he got me good!

We love a good board game and this one didn't disappoint! We laughed a lot during the game, and had a great time playing.  I was surprised that I knew a good number of the trivia questions (but not always the ones I got on my turn, ha ha!)  I think our game took about an hour to play before Katie was declared the winner. David came in second place and Mom came in last - wahh!

We can't wait to play again - it was so much fun and the trivia questions are great! We all learned things while playing this game.  Some of the questions we encountered were about religion, historical events and figures, Supreme Court cases, and the Constitution.

Oh, and the "Social Justice" cards are hilarious! They show you how ridiculous an intrusive government is to our society, and teach players about modern day tyranny.  The "Disappoint Big Brother" cards represent ways "We the People" can restore America.  This game WILL spark conversations about our government and changes that are needed!  My kids and I already talk about that often, but the game really encourages discussion!

If you homeschool, this makes a great history resource.  Heck, even if you DON'T homeschool, it's great!  It's meant for 3 - 8 players, and ages 15 and up.  David is 12 and he surprised me with how many trivia questions he could answer.  So I think some younger kids would do just fine playing this game!  Oh, and another great thing - this game is MADE IN THE USA!

Visit the website to learn more about the game, or to purchase your own copy!

I am so excited that the game designers are sponsoring a giveaway of We The People Fight Tyranny. This giveaway has a retail value of $56.99 but they are going to send one of my readers a FREE game!  Isn't that awesome? 

All you have to do is enter through my rafflecopter widget below.  Make sure you complete the mandatory entries (one of which includes leaving a comment below this post) so your bonus entries will count!  Good luck and thanks for stopping by!

Giveaway: The Swan Princess: Princess Tomorrow, Pirate Today DVD

**Sony Home Video provided me with some of the materials I used in this Blog Post/Giveaway. The opinions I share are my own.**



Calling all Pirates and Princesses!! You will love this fun new DVD from Sony Home Entertainment! The Swan Princess: Princess Tomorrow Pirate Today will be out on DVD September 6.   Here's a bit more about the movie:

In this brand new original animated film, Princess Alise is training to be the perfect royal but in her heart all she wants to do is sail the seven seas as a swashbuckling pirate! After setting sail, Princess Alise is shipwrecked and washes ashore on an island where she meets Lucas, a young boy who has been living there by himself. They have to work together to survive and get back to civilization!


Check out this cool Blog App for more about the movie!







Want to win a copy for your family?  Enter to win on my Rafflecopter Widget below:

There is always one mandatory entry that involves leaving a comment below this post - scroll down til you see the box that says leave a comment.  Once you do that, you just need to finish the mandatory entry in the widget and leave the name you commented under!  This must be done in order for any other entries to be counted.  :) 

I'd love for you to share this giveaway with your friends using the share buttons below this post for Google +, Twitter, etc.  Thanks for entering, and good luck!

$25 Family Christian Stores Giveaway! #FamilyChristianStores #FlyBy

Last week I had the opportunity to visit my local Family Christian Store for a little shopping.  They have some great summer sales going on and I was excited to see what I could find.

We were greeted by the salesperson as we entered the store, and she told us about the awesome sales going on.   We headed back towards the journaling Bible section first, but along the way we checked out some of the other sale items!  The wall art is fantastic here - so many beautiful options.   Coloring books, CD's, water bottles, greeting cards, books - they have it all at Family Christian Stores!

I already have the Inspire Bible, which I received as a gift last Christmas.  Even so, I still love to look at all of them, as well as the tools that go with them.  Family Christian has a great variety of journaling Bibles and supplies, and many of these are on sale for 30% off now!  (Think Christmas gifts!)

Speaking of sales: The Family Christian Summer Sale is in full swing right now!
Make the most of your summer with Family Christian’s unbeatable Buy 1, Get 1 50% Off sale on ALL Books, Movies and Music for the whole family! You can mix and match products to get the deal, which means you don’t need to shop within the same department. For example, you can buy a movie at full price, and get a book (or CD or another movie) for 50% off!

This sale is going on now through August 25, so visit your local store or shop online at familychristian.com!  Their website is very user friendly so shopping online is as easy as shopping in their store!

Just a few of the summer sale items you will find in stores and online:

Bible: Journaling Bibles
Description: Select journaling Bibles are now 30% off through August 25! Ignite a renewed passion for exploring God’s Word, whether you’re jotting down notes from a church sermon or recording prayer requests from small group—you’ll have all the space you need. And many of our journaling Bibles are filled with illustrations to inspire and get you started. Choose from 26 styles, and save now!

Book: For the Glory by Duncan Hamilton
Description: Eric Liddell, hero of Chariots of Fire, ran and lived for the glory of God. This compelling narrative is his untold and inspiring story of athletic heroism and faith in the darkest circumstances—from his Olympic medal to his missionary work in China to his last, brave years in a Japanese work camp during World War II.

Book: Traces of Guilt by Dee Henderson
Description: When Evie Blackwell arrives in Carin, Illinois, it’s to help launch a new task force dedicated to reexamining two of the city’s unsolved crimes. As she dives into evidence and develops new leads, she unearths a surprising connection . . . possibly a third cold case. She’s determined to solve them before she leaves town, and Sheriff Gabriel Thane and his family will be key to those answers. Book #1 of the Evie Blackwell Cold Case series.

Music: H A R D L O V E by NEEDTOBREATHE 
Description: This sixth studio album from NEEDTOBREATE finds the group reflecting on the tumultuous seasons behind their recent albums, Rivers In the Wasteland and The Reckoning, and enjoying extraordinary success while experiencing personal conflict. “We were in a dark place when we made the last record, but to me this album is mostly a story of redemption,” Bear Rinehart said.   H A R D L O V E delves into the world of electronic effects and instrumentation, resulting in a sublimely crafted and expansive sound that reflects the band’s unforgettable live show. Includes lead singles “Happiness” and “Money & Fame.”

DVD: Miracles from Heaven 
Description: Upon discovering her 10-year-old daughter, Anna, has an incurable disease, Christy Beam becomes a ferocious advocate of finding a solution. After Anna has an accident, an astonishing miracle unfolds in the wake of her rescue, restoring her family’s faith. Based on a true story. Stars Jennifer Garner and Kylie Rogers with Queen Latifah.

DVD: Risen
Description: Risen tells the story of a powerful Roman military tribune and his aide seeking to solve the mystery of what happened to Jesus in the weeks following the Crucifixion. Their goal: to disprove the rumors of a risen Messiah and prevent an uprising in Jerusalem. Stars Joseph Fiennes and Tom Felton.

New Product Line: Active Faith
We’re thrilled to be the exclusive retail partner for Active Faith Sports! Formed by a group of Christian athletes, Active Faith offers apparel with Christian-inspired designs and messages, encouraging you to share your faith whether you’re on the court, out for a jog or running errands around town.
Pro athletes seen wearing Active Faith apparel include Stephen Curry, Demaryius Thomas, Clayton Kershaw, James Harden and more.  Men's, women's and youth apparel available now!

About Family Christian:
Family Christian is a Christian retailer, operating in 250 stores across the country. They are committed to helping you find, grow, share and celebrate your faith through a wide selection of Christian books, music, Bibles, DVDs, gifts and more.  When you shop with Family Christian, your purchases support their efforts to unite with ministries that are helping children and families in need around the world.

After browsing the entire store, I ended up choosing the War Room DVD, a Fall decorative "tag" that I'll hang on the back door knob in our family room, two sets of tabs for my Inspire Bible, and some little cards for sticking in greeting cards.   I'm going back again soon for a few more journaling items - they had some cute stickers and other accessories that I have my eye on!  The clearance section in the back is also a great place to score some amazing deals on seasonal merchandise!

Now that you've seen some of what they have to offer, how would you like to have the chance to shop at Family Christian with a $25 gift certificate of your own? (in store or online!) They have generously offered to give one of my readers just that - and it's easy to enter via my rafflecopter widget below!

Don't forget to complete the mandatory entry first - otherwise none of your other bonus entries will count!