Kutless CD Review and Giveaway

I don’t know if any of you know who the group Kutless is, but I was introduced to them from a song that was played on KLOVE a few years ago. They have become one of my favorite groups since then.

The group has had many hit songs over the past years and after 15 years continue to be focused on sharing the Gospel with a younger generation that is searching for answers.

Their newest CD, ALPHA / OMEGA, has a collection of both rock and worship songs and both original and cover tracks. They wanted to create a project that would engage the Christian community and have the greatest impact. The songs are true to who the band is at their core - rock and worship. ALPHA / OMEGA features a new version of “Strong Tower” as well as the debut radio single “King of My Heart.”

The songs on this album include the following:

1. Your Great Name    
2. Strong Tower (Reprise)    
3. King of My Heart    
4. Cornerstone    
5. You Are Love    
6. Great Are You Lord    
7. Your Love Awakens Me    
8. Shepherd of My Soul    
9. Gave It All (I Surrender All)    
10. No Wonder (Roar of the Rugged Cross)

I loved listening to this new album. All of the songs on the album are great, but my favorite is their new song, King of my Heart.



Enter to win a copy using the form below:

Entry-Form

“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’m Going To Give You A Bear Hug ~ Book Review and Giveaway

*Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links*

Do you like to read simple, but cute, bedtime stories to your children? Are you looking for a book that has great illustrations? I’m Going to Give You a Bear Hug! is a cute, simple bedtime story. This book was written by Caroline  B. Cooney and illustrated by Tim Warnes. The book goes through how different animals may give you a hug.

"I’m going to give you a horse hug. A grab the mane,
Race through the rain, Yes oh yes, of course! hug"

It’s also a great way to get those bedtime hugs in with your child. Every child loves and needs to be hugged. I read this with my 5 year old daughter and she loved the hugs and loved looking at all of the pictures.



About the book:
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.

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.

Now for the giveaway. Please enter using the Rafflecopter below (or click here if it doesn’t load). Continental USA addresses only.

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“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.

Captive DVD ~ Review and Giveaway

Captive is a true story about Ashley Smith, a newly widowed mom and Brian Nichols, on the run from police. This incident took place in early 2005. To be honest, I don't remember hearing about this when this took place back in 2005. I had no clue what the story was about until I finished the movie.

About the movie:

Based on a miraculous story about the power of faith, Captive is an "amazing, inspiring" drama about the spiritual collision of two lost souls, Brian Nichols (Golden Globe Nominee David Oyelowo), on the run from police and desperate to make contact with his newborn son, takes recently widowed mother Ashley Smith (Kata Mara) hostage in her own apartment.  Fearing for her life and desperately hoping to see her daughter again she turns to Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Life for guidance.  Ashley and her captor face a crossroads where they discover hope and light in the midst of despair in the moving film that Dick Rolfe, CEO, Dove Foundation hailed as "powerful." 

My thoughts:
I watched this movie alone, since it is rated PG-13. I thought this movie was a great portrayal of how we each have our own problems that we need to turn to God to help us through. The actors did a fantastic job of portraying what each of the people went through. This was a great movie that everyone older teen and above should watch.

Enter the giveaway through the rafflecopter below:


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"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, 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.”

gMovies Review and Giveaway

I am always on the lookout for good quality family movies and shows whether on the internet or on DVD. I've had a streaming subscription before, but I had to search the shows that my children wanted to watch for them because some of the times non-family friendly shows would pop up in the search. When I was offered the chance to review gMovies, I was happy to find something that my kids could enjoy on their tablets by themselves without me worrying about what would pop up in the search.

gMovies offers instant access to almost 300 faith friendly feature films of every genre, in addition to animated stories, television series and biblical documentaries. Always available on your computer or mobile device, gMovies also includes the bible-based animated series “Pahappahooey Island;” teen drama “Much Ado About Middle School” starring Bill Cobbs, Lee Meriwether and Amanda Waters; and the “Left Behind” drama series starring Kirk Cameron and based on the New York Times bestselling books by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins.

gMovies is operated by UP, America’s favorite television channel for uplifting music and family entertainment, so rest assured that you are being offered the very best in faith conscious entertainment. The Parents Television Council™ has twice awarded its Entertainment Seal of Approval™ to UP for being “an authentic family-friendly cable network.” UP is the only television network to be so honored.

About gMovies:
Join over 2 million people who are already enjoying gMovies on a monthly basis!
· Instant access to over 300 hundreds Christian movies and TV shows with new titles added monthly
· The whole family can enjoy a variety of entertainment including Adventure, Animation, Comedy, Drama, Documentaries, Thrillers and more
· Stream from iPad, Android, or your PC
· Only $4.99/month
· No contract; cancel anytime
· Powered by UP, American’s favorite TV network for uplifting entertainment

My review:
We are loving watching the movies and shows that are available. My kids have an iPod and a Samsung Galaxy, so I was able to download the app to their devices for them. I have a Kindle Fire and am not able to watch on there, but I just use my computer to stream.

FYI: The video player on the gMovies website is Adobe Flash Player based. You will just want to ensure that the web browser you are using to access is able to run the latest version of Adobe Flash Player. Also, to maintain the highest quality stream, please ensure your internet download speed is at least 3.0 Mbps.

Just a note about the download speed mentioned above. Ours is less than 3.0 Mbps, but as long as only one device is streaming, we have no problems watching the programs. We do run into problems if we are all on our devices.

gMovies is giving my readers a free two week trial. Go to the link below and sign up. You don't have to put in your credit card info.

READER CODE for 2 Wk FREE Trial 
1. https://vod.gmovies.com/gmovies/secure/signup?productid=38
2. enter code: FREETRIAL72

How to set up your free trial:
1. Click on the link and register
2. After registering, proceed to sign up for the service.
3. Enter the promo code and click “Check” – the code was confirmed and the billing information was no longer required. 
4. After completing the rest of the form click “Subscribe."

And finally for the giveaway. Use the rafflecopter below for your chance to win a 6 month subscription to gMovies.

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"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, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

A Love Letter From God ~ Book Review and Giveaway

A Love Letter From God by P.K. Hallinan is a cute book geared for children ages 3-8. It is available on the website for $12.99, but for the rest of this month, enter the code LOVE2015 at checkout and get an extra 20% off. In fact, all of these titles are available at 20% off with the code LOVE2015.

About the book:
In this story, the author supposes what God might say in a personal letter written to a child. The unconditional and unlimited nature of God's love is revealed through simple and lyrical language. Rich and textured illustrations, along with heart-shaped die-cuts, will make this uplifting book a family favorite. It is a great message for little ones on Valentine’s Day, or for everyday inspiration. Love Letter from God will remind children of God’s eternal love and how He demonstrates that love through everyday miracles and by the wonder of His presence. Thanks to the colorful and touching illustrations of Laura Watson, children will also learn how to appreciate their own individuality and how to use their unique gifts to be a blessing to others.

My review:
I read this book (several times) to my almost 4 year old daughter. Actually, I've read this book to myself several times also. It is a cute little board book with great illustrations. My daughter said she wanted to "look at all the pretty pictures in the book" after I got done reading the words to her. She loved the story and the illustrations. Each page is durable enough for a young toddler to handle and each page has some cutouts also. We definitely give this book 5 stars!

Scroll down for the giveaway!

About the author:
P. K. Hallinan has been creating books for children since his wife first asked him to write for their two boys more than 30 years ago. Today Hallinan writes uplifting stories about holidays, relationships, and life values. “When I started this project, I felt that God told me to ‘Just let children know how much I love them.’ So I asked Him to speak the words Himself, through my heart, and I would put them to paper. And I believe He did this. This book’s message reinforces the presence of God in a child’s life by showing how God manifests Himself at every moment of every day,” said Hallinan.

Now for the giveaway: enter using the rafflecopter below. USA and Canada only.

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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 the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Hero DVD Review And Giveaway

*DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL PROVIDED: I received a copy of this DVD from the Family Christian for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review, nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. This post may contain affiliate links.*

I was recently given the chance to review Hero (DVD) from Family Christian. This movie is 94 minutes long and is best suited for children ages 10 and up. It is available at the Family Christian website for $19.99. You can also check out the Hero website to learn more about the movie.

Synopsis:
A man who left his town and his family behind returns to a town full of broken relationships, and is determined to make things right. In attempt to win back his son through the game they both love, he forms a little league baseball team designed to involve both fathers and sons in a common effort. In addition to mending his own relationship, he begins to turn the heart of a father in prison, and transform a town.



My Review:
This story is about Joe Finn who, seven years earlier, left his wife and son to try to get rich and make a name for himself. While he is gone, his wife passes away. Joe now has decided to try to reconnect with his son. He decides to reconnect with his son through their love of baseball. Joe Finn forms his own baseball league  and tries to get more father involvement in the league.

I enjoyed watching this movie. I love watching Dove Family Friendly approved movies. I don't have to worry about bad language or violence. This is a great movie for fathers and sons to watch together. I give this movie 5 stars. If you are looking for a great movie to watch with your whole movie, this is the one.

"And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers." Malachi 4:6 (KJV)

You have a chance to win your own copy! Enter using the rafflecopter below.

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The Good Rat ~ Book Review

*DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL PROVIDED: I received a copy of this CD from the Family Christian for review purposes. I was not compensated for this review, nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. This post may contain affiliate links.*

Family Christian sent me the first book from the Tales of Little Overhill series titled The Good Rat. The Good Rat retells the story of the parable of The Good Samaritan.

I was really impressed with this book. It is a nice hardcover book with beautiful illustrations on each page. It is a short book, 32 pages, that can be read in one setting. My 3 1/2 year old and 9 year old enjoyed listening to the story. In this story, Simon the shrew,  set out walking to the village. Along the way, a gang of weasels beat him and took his things. Two church mice came along the path and saw Simon, but they were late for their game. Nest, Matilda the hedgehog came down the path. She also saw Simon, but she was scared and ran away. Finally, a rat came walking down the path. Did he stop? Was he going to help Simon?

Both of my girls listened intently to find out what was going to happen to Simon. Was anyone going to stop and help him? Who would it be? We enjoyed reading the book and looking at the great illustrations.

Enter below for a chance to win a $10 Appreciation Certificate from Family Christian. USA only.

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Songs In The Key Of Happy ~ Review and Giveaway

*DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL PROVIDED:  I received a copy of this CD from the Family Christian for review purposes.  I was not compensated for this review, nor was I required to write a positive review.  The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.  This post may contain affiliate links.*

I was given the opportunity to listen to and review the newest Goodman Revival CD, Songs in the Key of Happy. This CD is available for pre-order at the Family Christian website.

The Goodman Revival trio consists of  Tanya Goodman Sykes, Michael Sykes, and Johnny Minick. The CD has many familiar songs and is a great CD to listen to at home or in the car. The songs on the CD are as follows:

1. What a Happy Time
2. Eyes of Jesus
3. Until You've Known the Love
4. I'll Be Alright
5. The Sweetest Song I Know
6. This Is Just What Heaven Means to Me
7. It Happened
8. Settle the Score
9. Who Am I
10. I Don't Want To Get Adjusted
11. I Hold A Clear Title To A Mansion
12. I Wouldn't Take Nothing For My Journey
13. Look For Me

I enjoyed listening to the CD and hearing some familiar old songs. My favorite is Look For Me:



Pre-order your copy at Family Christian today. This CD will be released in January 2015.

Now for the giveaway. Fill out the Rafflecopter below (you may need to wait a couple of minutes for it to load). Prize will be sent out by Family Christian. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond.

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Susie's Hope DVD ~ Review and Giveaway

I was recently given the chance to review a movie, Susie's Hope.

About Susie's Hope:

Based on the true story that successfully passed Susie’s Law in North Carolina, which seeks stricter punishment for animal abusers, Susie’s Hope brings to life the inspirational relationship between pit bull attack survivor Donna Lawrence and Susie, a pit bull-mix puppy found beaten, burned and left for dead. Recognizing reflect and abuse were to blame for the tragic attack that nearly claimed her life 10 months earlier, Donna resumes the battered animal and accepts her as family. Together, they learn to heal, love and forgive as they lead a historic effort to seek justice and protection, not only for Susie, but all animals.

My Review:

Living in North Carolina, I was surprised to learn this movie was a true story based on an event that happened in North Carolina. I had not heard of this story or this law even though I have lived here for 16 years. This movie was a little slow to start with, but once it got to the main story line, It was great. I watched this by myself, because I wasn't sure how graphic it would be. While it is graphic, you can tell that the burned dog is not a real dog, but a robotic dog. I think my boys, who are 12 and 11, would like this movie. They love animals. I give this movie 4.5 out of 5 stars!

To learn more about Susie, visit the website.



Now for the giveaway. USA and Canada only. Please fill out the Rafflecopter below to enter.

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"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 the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Stronger By TaRanda Greene ~ Review and Giveaway

**This post may contain affiliate links.**

I was first introduced to The Greene's way back in college. I don't really remember how I found them, but after I had heard them, I had to listen to more. Over the years, I have been to many of their concerts and have bought many CD's of theirs. I remember when TaRanda joined the Greene's and enjoyed hearing her whenever I had the chance.

When I was given the chance to here TaRanda's new CD, Stronger, I was so excited. It has been awhile since I have listened to my CD's and I knew this was going to be a great CD.

I was not wrong, this is a great CD! The minute it started playing I knew it was going to be great. All of the songs are great, but my favorites are the title track, Stronger, and  the song, Where Amazing Happens. You can listen to samples of all the songs at Family Christian.

"Stronger" ~ It doesn't matter what you face, Jesus is always by your side and you are stronger than you think.

"Where Amazing Happens" ~ When you feel like you are at the end of your rope, that's when amazing happens.

The other songs on the CD are as follows:

• "Shackles (Praise You)"
• "Awake My Soul"
• "Deepest Praise"
• "Healer"
• "Promise"
• "A Little More Jesus"
• "If I Could"
• "Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain"
• "All I Need"
• "The Sound"

You can see the behind the scenes of Stronger below. The CD is available at Family Christian for $11.99.



Now for the giveaway. Fill out the Rafflecopter below (you may need to wait a couple of minutes for it to load). Prize will be sent out by Family Christian. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond.

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I received a free copy of this product from Family Christian in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.

What's In The Bible? Volume 10 ~ Review and Giveaway

I had heard of the Buck Denver Asks...What's in the Bible? DVD series, but have never had an opportunity to watch one. I recently was given the chance to review Volume 10 in the series. Volumes 1 - 9 cover the Old Testament. Volume 10 starts with the New Testament.

What's in the Bible? Volume 10: Jesus is the Good News covers the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). Volume 10 includes two 25 minute episodes: God's Perfect Timing and The Messiah Has Come. In God's Perfect Timing, Buck Denver and children learn about the 400 years between the Old and New Testaments and how Jesus arrives at just the right time. In The Messiah Has Come, we learn about the life and ministry of Jesus, how he died, and rose again.

I sat down with my 3 year old daughter to watch this video. When it first started, she asked, "Is this about Jesus?" She loves Jesus and loves going to church, so I knew she would loving watching the DVD. She sat through the entire video without moving or talking after that. I asked her at the end if she enjoyed it and she said, "YES!" I enjoyed watching this video with her. I liked that this is a Christian video and I don't have to preview it to make sure it is okay for my 3 year old to watch.

You can watch the trailer here (or below):



Now for the giveaway ~ Enter using the form below. Open to USA & Canada only.

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"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 the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Parenting Unchained ~ Giveaway

Parenting Unchained by Dr. James D. Dempsey is a new book about overcoming deceptions that shackles Christian parents. Dr. Dempsey lists ten deceptions in this book that have infected his own parenting. I am going to be writing a full review of this book in a couple of weeks. I am enjoying this book and it has been a help to me already. Satan is out to destroy families. we need to remain focused on God and  pray for His help while we parent our children. In the book, Dr. Dempsey says, "God's model for parenting will help you avoid the deceptions that seek to destroy both you and your children." Keeping God first in your life and praying for His help will keep Satan away. But Satan will try his hardest to get to your children, so we need to be vigilant.



To celebrate the release of Parenting Unchained: Overcoming the Ten Deceptions That Shackle Christian Parents, we are joining other members of the Launch Team in a wonderful giveaway filled with a Kindle Paperwhite, $25 Amazon Gift Card and several biblical parenting products! A value of more than $300!

Here's what you could win:

Kindle Paperwhite 6" eReader ($119 value)  

Unlike tablets, Kindle Paperwhite is designed to deliver a superior reading experience:

• No screen glare in bright sunlight
• Read with one hand—over 30% lighter than iPad mini
• Battery lasts weeks, not hours
• Built-in light—read without eyestrain

Your Kindle comes loaded with 2 biblical parenting books right at the start:

Parenting Unchained Kindle Edition ($4.99 value)

In Parenting Unchained – Overcoming the Ten Deceptions that Shackle Christian Parents, Dr. James D. Dempsey reveals the ten most destructive lies about parenting. He writes from the heart about the way these lies infected his own parenting, and illuminates the Bible's powerful truths that counter each lie. Both Biblical and practical, each section ends with home activities to help parents take immediate steps to develop their kids' character--character that lasts when they leave home.

Home Improvement Kindle Edition ($4.99 value)

This book contains eight principles every family needs written by Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN. You'll learn practical, hand on ideas for helping your kids deal with their anger, constructive ways to end discipline times, and keys that will help children change their hearts, not just their behavior. Turansky and Miller offer tried and true strategies in a refreshingly new family-friendly format. This is the parenting book you can read to your kids.

$25 Amazon Gift Card 

Buy even more books for your new Kindle!

The Christian Parenting Handbook and Companion Guide ($39.85 value) 

The Christian Parenting Handbook contains nuggets of parenting wisdom condensed into 50 short chapters, each one biblical, practical, and relevant for parents of children ages 2-18. Learn appropriate ways to correct, instruct, and set limits. Glean wisdom for dealing with emotions, conflict, and developing closeness in your family… and much more. These 50 strategies provide you with hands-on tools for parenting children of any age.

The Companion Guide is a workbook of 50 lessons along with 50 audio tips to take you through The Christian Parenting Handbook step by step. Each lesson contains advice from Dr Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller in a 5 minute audio tip and then offers teaching, an assignment, a Bible verse, and a prayer to help you apply each idea or strategy in your family. The tips are available to you as MP3 downloads and access to them comes in the workbook.

The Family Toolbox ($99.95 value)

The Family Toolbox has 8 lessons. Each one has a 1-2 minute scene of a family living life and experiencing common challenges in their relationships. A discussion guide prompts dialogue between parents and teens and a 10-minute teaching session for parents featuring Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN gives practical tools to use right away.

As your family works through the lessons, teens learn 16 Life Success Principles and parents learn valuable tools.

Philippians in 28 Weeks Digital ($18.95 value)

It is easier to share the Word of God when it is etched upon your heart. Philippians in 28 Weeks™ is a delightful and painless way to commit the entire book of Philippians to memory. This streamlined approach uses memory cards carefully constructed to present Philippians thought-by-thought, copywork verses, journal questions, weekly reflections,recitation charts to test your retention, and an optional tracking tool called “The Log.”

To enter the giveaway, use the Rafflecopter below. U.S. residents, age 18 and older. Void where prohibited by law. If the Rafflecopter does not load properly, click here to enter.

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Join us for the Parenting Unchained Facebook Release Party. There will be even more prizes and giveaways there and the author of Parenting Unchained will be present to answer your questions!

RSVP today so you won't forget!

Finding Hope Now DVD ~ Review and Giveaway

*This post may contain affiliate links.*

Finding Hope Now is a movie based on a true story. Reverend Roger Minassian had a heart for the gang youth in Fresno, California. In 1993, Rev. Minassian left his church and started the ministry Hope Now for Youth. While dealing with gangs, Roger meets Santos Delgado. Santos is a 16 year old who has left his home and now survives on the street. Santos joins one of the gangs and his life starts spiraling out of control. Roger keeps on Santos and eventually Santos life starts turning around the right way. Rev. Minassian learns to become a father to the fatherless.

Since it's beginning, Hope Now for Youth has placed over 1800 gang members with criminal records in jobs with Fresno businesses. Hope Now has given them a chance at a new life and have taught men how to be loving husbands and fathers.

Finding Hope Now is available at Family Christian for $19.99. It is recommended for ages 12 and up because of gang related violence.

This is not a movie I would normally choose to watch, but I am glad I was chosen to review this movie. It was such an inspiring movie and had me in tears by the end. Reverend Minassian has such a big heart and loves youth and wants them to do right. It inspired me to want to help the youth in my city. I live near a city that has a gang problem and my mayor has a heart like Roger and wants to get them off the street and into jobs. This movie will not disappoint.

Now for the giveaway: Family Christian has let me give one of my readers a chance at winning the DVD. USA and Canada only. Please enter using the rafflecopter below.

Check out Family Christian on Facebook.
Also, I would love for you to check out Our Life ~ Home and School on Facebook to keep up with my reviews and giveaways.

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I received a free copy of this product from Family Christian in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.

Plan To Be Flexible ~ Review

I was recently given the opportunity to review the book, Plan To Be Flexible: Designing A Homeschool Rhythm and Curriculum Plan that Works for Your Family by Alicia Kazsuk.

Alicia Kazsuk is the founder of Vibrant Homeschooling and is a regular, homeschool mom of four children. She is a blogger, author, and speaker. She founded Vibrant Homeschooling and wrote Plan To Be Flexible to help other homeschool moms.

About the book:

Plan To Be Flexible gives you ideas and stories that allow you to examine your homeschool. In this book, you will analyze what is and is not working in your homeschool, develop a plan, discover the secret to homeschool sanity, and learn how to homeschool with freedom. Plan To Be Flexible is available in print or kindle format.

My review:

When I first started reading the book, I felt like Alicia was in my living room talking to me as a friend. This book is a very easy read and has so much information. I especially liked the action plans at the end of each chapter. I have been homeschooling for nine years and can still use all the help I can get. I think each year I try something new to keep my sanity and keep from burning out, but nothing works or I don't stick with my plan.

Alicia wrote about things I had not even thought of before. For example, take your children out on a special one on one date and ask them what they thought about the curriculum they used the past year. Write down their thoughts. Listen to them.  What works for one of your children may not work for another. I have learned that children are not a one size fits all. I have had to take a look at the curriculum I chose for my oldest as some of it did not work for my daughter. I had to find what worked best for her. She still has a melt down every now and then, but she is a lot happier with the curriculum I chose (from Schoolhouse Crew reviews) for her.

I also love that she wrote about not being a slave to a schedule. One year I did try to schedule my homeschool day (start at 8 AM, math at 8:30 AM, grammar at 9:15 AM, etc). It did not work at all. I threw the schedule out and now we just go with the flow. Some days we get done before lunch and some days it is after lunch. I don't worry about being on schedule anymore.

She also mention to sit down and set up a master school calendar. Determine what your state requires, write (type) in any holidays you want to take off from school, vacation days, any special museum days that you already know about, and any extra-curricular activities. I did try to set up a master calendar this year. I wanted to school for 6 weeks, take 1 week off. Life happens and I have not been able to stick to that plan. Having been interrupted by in-laws in the hospital, the chapter about "When Life Interrupts Your 'Perfect' Rythym" was something I needed to read. We had to do some of the things suggested. School on the road or skip lessons for the day. We also were able to take a field trip in the city where my mother-in-law is in the hospital. Life happens, but you can still homeschool.

Alicia also talks about learning environments and homeschooling with joy and freedom.

As I mentioned before, each chapter is followed by an action plan to get you thinking about your homeschool. There is also an appendix in the book with several assessment questions, resources for supplemental curriculum, and additional helpful resources.

I just highlighted a few of my favorite chapters. I loved reading this book. It has given me so many new ideas and tips to try out. I highly recommend this book to any homeschool mom, no matter if they are a veteran or just starting out.

Check out Vibrant Homeschooling and subscribe to the email list for some great freebies.

Now for the giveaway. Enter by using the Rafflecopter below. The contest is open to residents in the USA only. Thanks.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review.

Alone Yet Not Alone ~ Book Review and Giveaway

Alone Yet Not Alone by Tracy Leininger Craven tells the true story of two sisters who were captured during the time of the French and Indian War.

The book is recommended for ages 8 and up. It is 150 pages long and is an easy read. It didn't take me very long to read through the book. My 8 year old daughter has started to read the book, but between homeschool and playing outside, it is taking a bit longer for her to get through it.

One thing I loved about this story is that it shows both of the girls tremendous faith in God. I received the movie edition book to review and I loved looking at the pictures of the movie. I cannot wait to see this movie when it comes out on June 13. I am also going to get my boys, ages 12 and 10, to read the book before the movie comes out. I think that they will enjoy this book. They like true story books the best out of any type of book.

I have a copy to giveaway to one lucky reader. Just fill out the Rafflecopter below and you are entered to win.

Check out the movie trailer:




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"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 the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Valentine's Day Boogie Wipes Giveaway

I am sharing a great giveaway ~ the Use Boogie Wipes and Really Smell the Roses Giveaway.

I first learned about Boogie Wipes when my almost 3 year old was about 6 months. It was her first winter and she had a cold. She kept turning away and crying when using tissues and her nose was raw. I saw the Boogie Wipes at the store and decided to give them a try. They helped my little one so much that I eventually signed up to be an ambassador. I tell and share product with others about these great wipes.

Now for the giveaway ~ Use the rafflecopter below to enter. Open to US residents only. Have fun and be creative.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: all opinions given are my own. I was given product to try and give my honest opinion on the product.

See The Light Art Giveaway

Note ~ This post contains affiliate links.

We are super excited to announce that we are giving away (1) Art Class - 1 Year set, Volumes 1-9 to one fabulous family. We have never given away an entire set before, but Autumn is approaching and we want to celebrate the magnificent season of change.

This months special is 10% off the Art Class - 1 Year Set (Volumes 1-9).

Use Coupon Code: SEPTEMBER

Offer is good thru September 30, 2013. This would make a wonderful Christmas present for the whole family.

Now for the Giveaway!

See the Light will be giving away (1) Art Class - 1 Year set, Volumes 1-9 to one family. We will be picking a random winner September 15 at 11:59p. Winner will be contacted via email and must respond within 48 hours or another winner will be chosen. All entries will be verified.

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Legal Disclosure: No purchase necessary to win. Void where prohibited. Valid only in the United States. Must be at least 18 years of age to enter. Winner will be selected by Rafflecopter and will be notified within 48 hours of the contest’s close. Facebook is not affiliated with this giveaway and the act of liking a Facebook page is not required to win.

Great Products Giveaway

Great Products is having an awesome sale right now on several homeschool t-shirts. They have shirts ranging  from a size 2 (toddler) up to size 3X-Large in Adults. The best part is that these shirts are only $5.99! Note- 2X and 3X are $7.99, but that is still a great price. They are also offering several color shirts and several cool designs. Make sure to get your order in fast since these are first come, first served. Also, the sale ends on September 15.



Be sure to check them out at Great Products, on Facebook, or on Twitter.

I'm able to give away one homeschool t-shirt (any size, color) to one of my readers. Just fill out the Rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Schoolhouse Planners Giveaway

Need to start planning for the new school year? Schoolhouse Teachers has made that possible. They have provided access to a "big mama" planner as well as four student planners. These planners are free for Schoolhouseteachers.com members ~ $3 for the first month and $12.95 per month after the first month.

These planners are also available for purchase without a subscription here.

Want to know more about what each planner offers? Read on for more info. Giveaway form at the end of this post.

The 2013/2014 planner ($39) aka 'big mama," has more than just a calendar. This planner also has homemaking pages such as Bible reading, family finances, recipes, and so much more. There are also field trip log pages, planning pages, and transcript pages. There are also many great articles written by homeschool experts. This planner has over 800 pages.

These are the four student planners that are offered:

The Special Learners Planner ($29) has many helpful articles to help you school your special needs students. It also has a calendar, planning pages, and organization. There are also forms for therapy, allergic reactions, behavior diary, and so much more. 

The Primary Planner ($9.95) is designed to be used with your lower elementary level student. There are many  interesting articles for them to read as well as a calendar, recipes they can make, planning pages, and book lists. There are also forms for a family tree, family rules, and daily chores.

The Intermediate Planner ($19) is for your upper elementary and junior high student. Just like the others, there are many interesting articles written just for them. There are also must know lists such as the miracles of Jesus, common Latin roots, famous authors, and man more. There are also book report forms, science lab sheets,  writing goals, and so much more.

The High School Planner ($29) is great for your 9th-12th grader. There are many encouraging articles written by homeschool graduates. There are also planning pages, college checklist, tracking high school hours, Bible memorization and so much more. 

Now for the giveaway! I am able to give away one "big mama" planner and one student planner of your choice to one winner. Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to enter to win.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*As a member of the Schoolhouse Review Crew, I have been given membership to SchoolhouseTeachers.com, which includes access to the Schoolhouse Planners*

Boogie Wipes Giveaway

I was first introduced to Boogie Wipes when my youngest daughter was about 8 months- her 1st winter. Since then, I have become a Boogie Wipes Ambassador. What is a Boogie Wipes Ambassador? I hand out samples provided to me from Boogie Wipes to people at the park, at the doctor, at the restaurant, anywhere! They also send me full size products to try or giveaway.

As I was cleaning up our school room, I found some extras that we are not going to use right now, so decided to give them away. You will receive (from the picture above) a regular size package of grape scented boogie wipes, a Kandoo bath pouf, a full size Kandoo Body Wash, and some samples to have in your purse or car.

If you have never tried Boogie Wipes, now is the time to try them out. If you have tried them and love them, now is the time to get some freebies. If you would like a chance to win, please fill out the rafflecopter form below. This Boogie Wipes giveaway is open to the US only. It will be open from June 24, 2013 until June 29, 2013. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclaimer: This is a giveaway of products sent to me by the company to giveaway as a part of the Boogie Wipes Ambassador program. As always, all opinions are my own.