Homeschool Review: The Brinkman Adventures, Season 6 #hsreviews #AudioDrama #MissionaryStories #AudioMissionaryDrama #BrinkmanAdventures

I fell in love with the exciting Brinkman Adventures years ago, and I am always looking forward to the release of new stories.  For purposes of review, we received the Digital Version of Season 6: Underground Rising and we couldn't wait to jump in and get started to see where we would be traveling on mission this time.  How perfect was it that this season started us off with a visit to World War II since that is exactly our focus in history this semester?  GOD's perfect timing -- I love it!

Season 6:  Underground Rising contains six missionary stories in just over 2 hours of listening time.  This is perfect family listening for a long car ride together (headed on vacation or to visit family for the holidays?  Don't forget to take your CDs.) or can even be used during your family devotion time.  Listening to one episode each evening would make for some great discussions about how much GOD loves each and every one of us and would be a beautiful way to incorporate mission education and prayer into your family time.   Be forewarned though:  Once you start listening along, you may not want to stop.  And you are definitely going to want to have a map handy to mark all of the neat places you learn about.  In Season 6 alone, we visited the Netherlands, Wisconsin, India, Thailand, and Myanmar/Burma.


Each episode of the Brinkman Adventures is based on true accounts of real missionaries in GOD's service on the mission field.  Although some names and details must be changed in order to protect their calling and keep their familes secure, all of the stories are true.  The stories are active and draw you right into the midst of them.  As we "listen", we "see".  That said, it makes it tough to choose a "favorite" story.   Each and every episode tugs at my heartstrings -- and quite often bring me to tears as I listen.  The first two episodes of Season 6 take us underground in Nazi-occupied Holland where Jewish families need help to survive and episode four reminds us to trust GOD's plan -- even when it takes you far away from home to India -- where you know no one.  Episode three reminded me that I am offered grace because I am a follower of the KING's SON.

Hearing a roomful of children and teens pray to accept JESUS as their SAVIOUR as they begin to realize what unconditional love truly is brought me to tears.  Y'all . . . this is what it's all about.  Only JESUS can change the hearts of people and these audio dramas put us right in the midst of GOD at work.  Following GOD is not always easy, but it is always, always the right path.  I need the reminder for myself -- and I want my children to hear it often.  More than anything else, I desire for my children to give themselves fully to JESUS.  I appreciate the engaging way the Brinkman Adventures encourage us to wholeheartedly follow GOD.  Every time.  Even when we don't see how.

The last two episodes grabbed my attention immediately as they introduced us to Dave and Karen Eubanks -- a Green Beret and Special Education teacher.  My brother is a Green Beret and it was a perfect calling for his life.  Listening to Dave's call to full-time missions was intriguing and I appreciate so much how GOD prepares us for HIS ultimate plan in ways that we least expect.  It is the perfect reminder that GOD works through our lives and only HE sees the big picture.  I also appreciate that when listening along might get tough or intense, the Brinkman Adventures suggest that families listen together.  The gunfire is real, the danger is evident, but what a blessing that the focus is always on the health of the family unit.  These are mission stories that you will want to hear over and over.  They never get old and they remind us what our mission at home should be as well:

Love each other.
Unite in a work for freedom, justice, and peace.
Forgive and don't hate each other.
Pray with faith.
Act with courage.
Never surrender.

One of my favorite things about the Brinkman Adventures is that you can find the backstories of each episode on the website, follow the family blog, and meet the real-life missionary family that the adventures are based upon.  There are pictures, videos, and more detailed information about each person and location mentioned.  This is a great resource that helps us put faces to the missionary stories.  It helps us to remember that they are real people sharing JESUS in real time.

I especially enjoyed reading through the Real Stories for Season 6 and seeing the beautiful pictures of Omie's special tea cups because I have been an avid collector of all things tea party for as long as I can remember.  Some of my very favorite teacups and teapots (pictured below) belonged to my grandmother, too, and I love holding them close as I remember the stories that she used to share with me.  What a precious memory brought to mind while listening to the first two episodes.

The "extras" provided in the Real Stories section are fascinating and cover a wide variety of information that really makes a huge difference in how you listen to the audio dramas. Don't skip this section.  It is an invaluable resource for your homeschool.  There are videos, recipes, maps, and more.  It's fun to journey along with real-life people as they visit the same places the Brinkman family has taken us.

You are going to want to make sure and check out the Facebook page, too.  I think you'll enjoy the podcasts links and featured articles there that direct us all to a life of on-mission service.

And finally, jump on over and order up some adventure for yourself.  Brinkman Adventures is offering a 10% discount for my readers this month.  What a great way to kick off Fall!  

We love every episode we've listened to and are always anxiously awaiting the next.  This is a the perfect time to share it with your family -- and stock up for Christmas, too.


As always, I'd love to hear how GOD speaks to you through the Brinkman family escapades.  Please, please share with me what HE is sharing with you and yours.  Let's speak life together.

I was given the opportunity to review Season 6: Underground Rising of the 
Brinkman Adventures as a member of the Homeschool Review Crew.   You can check out the Crew Review and see what other members of the Homeschool Review Crew thought of these adventures by clicking on the graphic below.

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Amy Grant's Tennessee Christmas {Review & Giveaway} #TennesseeChristmas #flyby

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas around here.  The lights are hung on the mantle, my kitchen tree is up, and cool weather is starting to arrive.  I've got tons more stuff to do, but I'm getting there.  I started listening to the new Amy Grant CD, Tennessee Christmas, when it appeared in my mailbox last week and that has made all the difference in my mood.  It's official.  I'm ready for a little Christmas cheer.  Bring on Christmas!

I've been a fan of Amy Grant for a very long time (over 30 years!  Wow!) and hearing the very first note from that familiar voice fill up my living room just floods my heart with memories.  I wore out my Age to Age cassette tape (Remember those?  Do I date myself here, or what?) listening to the message in her songs over and over again as a teen and this newest CD takes me "home" again.  It is absolutely beautiful.

Songs included on the CD blend old and new music, fun and sacred.  They are:

• Tennessee Christmas (which reminds me to pray for our friends in the Gatlinburg area when I listen along each morning)
• To Be Together
• Christmas for You and Me
• Melancholy Christmas
• December
• White Christmas
• Joy to the World
• I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm
• Baby, It's Cold Outside
• Christmas Don't Be Late
• Still Can't Sleep
• Another Merry Christmas
• O Come, All Ye Faithful

I am so thrilled to have this newest Christmas CD and plan to "wear it out" just like I did those old cassette tapes.  Listening to Amy Grant sing is like having a lifelong friend over.  I love hearing her heart as she shares Christmas with friends and family through her lyrics.   I love praising alongside her as we are reminded that HE is ever faithful.  You're going to love this one, too.  I promise.

You can listen to the song To Be Together over on YouTube  and  BUY THIS CD on iTunes right now.  You can also enter to win a copy of your very own here on the blog.  Leave a comment and tell me which Amy Grant song is your all-time favorite and why.  Make sure you leave your email address so that I can contact you if you win.  One lucky person (U.S. only) will win a CD on Friday, December 9.  I hope it's you.

Enjoy Christmas -- together.

"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.”

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Bible Journaling Kit {Review & Giveaway x 2} #BibleJournalingKit #FlyBy

Bible journaling is all the rage these days and I've long wanted to be a part of it.  I don't consider myself very artistic (at all!) so it's been a bit harder for me to get involved than I had hoped.  I'm certainly not the least bit crafty and I tend to be harder on myself than I am on others.  I LOVE all of the Bible journaling that I've seen, but I didn't want to "mess up" the pages of my Bible.  You know what I mean?  I've struggled to find a way to step into the act of worship that journaling can be based upon a fear of starting the unknown so when the opportunity came for me to try out the Bible Journaling Kit I was quick to jump on it.  Seriously, who wouldn't want to review a fun, crafty way of learning more about JESUS? This Bible Journaling Kit from Ellie Claire (of the Worthy Publishing Group) promises to make the first steps into journaling easier than you can imagine.  

So what do I like about this Bible Journaling Kit and why do I suggest you get one for yourself?  Using this kit helps bring out the artist in us all.  It makes it easier for anyone to dive deeper into their study of GOD's Word with just a little bit of creative flair.  The alphabet and word stickers add a personal touch to your Bible and the scalloped edge of the ruled protector helps insure that I "don't mess it up."  I am encouraged to get "real" within the pages of my Bible as I read Scripture and soak it in and I find that I spend more time focusing on the deeper meaning of GOD's Word before I attempt to illustrate what HE is saying to me or wants me to understand.  Since GOD is the MASTER DESIGNER, it only seems natural that we would be able to return praise to HIM through art of our very own.

About the Product:  Create a work of art on the pages of your favorite Bible.  Draw, color, or journal your thoughts, dreams, and prayers.  Highlight your favorite verses or the encouragements that speak to your heart with pencils, stickers, and tabs.  The Bible Journaling Kit includes:

• 4 sheets of word stickers (words that remind you that GOD loves you and You are NOT alone,)
• 4 sheets of alphabet stickers
• 24 tab stickers so that you can mark favorite places and blessings
• 8 colored pencil twists (gray, red, purple, green, blue, yellow, orange, and brown)
• 1 journaling pen (black ink)
• 1 padded pouch with adjustable strap to fit over Bible covers of all sizes so that you can keep your Kit close at hand
• 1 ruled page protector mat with tracing lines to keep things neat and clean

You can find out more about the Ellie Claire Bible Journaling Kit and even pick up several for Christmas gifts by visiting the following sites:

Barnes & Nobles

Amazon

Books-A-Million

Christianbook.com

Okay, now here's the coolest part of all.  There are TWO GIVEAWAYS that you can enter for a chance to WIN your very own Bible Journaling Kit.  First, make sure to visit the Worthy Inspired website and enter to win one of the five kits they are giving away.  (While you are there, you'll want to make sure to print some of the FREE coloring pages, too.  YES, they are for artists or artist-wannabes of ALL ages.  AND each coloring page includes a neat devotion.)

Second, leave a comment on this blog post and tell me how you might use a Journaling Kit as part of your Bible study and worship time.  I'd love to share in your creative ideas and I'll be choosing a winner for one Kit on Friday, December 9.  (U.S. Only for this one.)

"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.”

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Christmas Love Letters from GOD {Book Review & Giveaway} #flyby #giveaway

I have another great book to add to my Christmas basket and I can't wait to start sharing it with the children at church this weekend.   A beautifully written book that shares seven stories surrounding the birth of JESUS, Christmas Love Letters from GOD offers Bible verses perfect for Scripture memory and short Bible study elements that can be used for family devotions.  How fun and perfect is this?  What a great way to celebrate the Advent season.

Included alongside each story is an envelope that contains a personal letter from GOD that helps explain just how much JESUS loves us all and will help children experience Christmas like never before.  Moms and dads can even fill in the name of their little ones to treasure GOD's words forever.

The book is colorfully illustrated and super inviting for children and adults alike.  I'll be using it in children's church over the next few weeks as we read the biblical account of the stories included:  Isaiah's Good News, Mary's Song, Joseph's Dream, Bethlehem's Road, JESUS Joy!, Shepherd's Surprise, and Wise Men's Wonder.  We'll be reading the story aloud, reading the Bible verses associated with it, learning the Bible verses shared as GOD's Perfect Promise, and opening up our "Love Letter from GOD."   

About the book:  Hardcover with protective jacket, 32-pages

Written for children ages four to eight, Christmas Love Letters from GOD cleverly combines both prose and poetry as the story of JESUS’ birth unfolds.  The book includes seven stories, beginning with Isaiah’s prophecy and ending with the visit of the Wise Men. Following each story, the child will find his or her own letter from GOD, folded into a small envelope attached to the page. Each letter begins with a space in which to write the child’s name, so each one can be specially addressed to the child.

Written as if GOD is speaking, each personalized message gives the young reader a sense of wonder as they discover anew the Christmas holiday and the birth of JESUS.  A very special Bible verse, entitled GOD’s Perfect Promise, also accompanies each story and letter as GOD’s personal words of love, promise, and hope.

This is a beautiful way to make JESUS personal to your little ones.

For even more information, you'll want to check out the following Social Media sites:

For author Glenys Nellist  

Twitter

Facebook

Instagram

For publisher Zonderkidz

Twitter

Facebook

You can also see several videos to show you an up-close-and-personal view

Christmas Love Letters from GOD

Mary's Song

Author's Interview

You can purchase your very own copy from the following retailers:

Amazon

GoodReads

Barnes and Nobles

Zondervan

I'm privileged to be giving away one copy of the book right here on the blog.  For your chance to win, just leave a comment below sharing one way that you make the month of December special for your family.  Easy peasy!  One winner (U.S. Only) will be chosen at random on Friday, December 2.  Good luck.

"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.”

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Homeschool Review: The Familyman's Christmas Treasury Collections #hsreviews #christmas #Audio #audiobook #digital #familymanministries

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat.

Please put a penny in an old man's hat.
If you haven't got a penny, a ha'penny will do.
If you haven't got a ha'penny, GOD bless you.

That's one of the first Christmas songs I remember learning in school and I begin singing it about this time every year.  As decorations and lights and trees and yard art hit the aisles at stores I frequent, we begin to turn our hearts toward Christmas.  Christmas is coming!  This year, we've had the extra privilege of adding a treasury of Christmas stories to our preparations for the holidays with Todd Wilson's newest audio books.  The Familyman's Christmas Treasury - Audio Collection (also available separately as Digital Downloads) offers six stories to help you and yours prepare for Christmas.  Additional stories are available.  Written by Todd Wilson  (aka The Familyman) and read by master storyteller Jim Hodges, these charming stories will warm your heart and touch your soul.  For purposes of review, I received the digital download set and one physical CD.  The quality of both is wonderful.
The stories that make up the audio collection are shared below.  I thought it would be fun to give you a brief synopsis of each one and a Bible verse that GOD placed on my heart as I listened to them.  I count it all joy when GOD speaks to my heart through HIS Word as I go about my day-to-day.  Don't you?

• Book One:  Cootie McKay's Nativity (31 minutes)  When old Mrs. Nichols takes out the town nativity with her car, Cootie McKay comes to the rescue with a most unique version of his very own that brings the birth of JESUS to life and reminds us that JESUS is alive!   "JESUS looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with GOD; all things are possible with GOD.”  Mark 10:27

• Book Two:  Captain Chaos and the Manger Blaster (19 minutes)  Jason finds out the chaos that ensues when we remove the manger from Christmas and JESUS from our lives.  "In HIM was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."  John1:4-5

• Book Three:  The Stranger (18 minutes)  Sam and his family learn the true meaning of Christian hospitality when they welcome a stranger named Jessie into their home on Christmas Eve.  "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."  Hebrews 13:2

• Book Four:  The Bishop's Dream  (20 minutes)  Bishop Nicholas learns about the modern-day celebration of the birth of CHRIST and cries over the replacement of JESUS with the activities of Saint Nick.  "For we do not preach ourselves but CHRIST JESUS as LORD, and ourselves as your bond-servants for JESUS' sake."  2 Corinthians 4:5

• Book Five:  Harold Grubbs and the Christmas Vest  (13 minutes)  Isaac learns that GOD can change even the hardest of hearts because the CHILD that was born in the manger was also crucified on the cross.   "Therefore if any man be in CHRIST, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."  2 Corinthians 5:17 

• Book Six:  Gladys Remembers Christmas (23 minutes)  Gladys hates Christmas until she's forced to look through boxes of old Christmas decorations long hidden away in her father's attic and comes face-to-face with sentimental memories when she finds the family's long forgotten creche.  "And she brought forth her firstborn SON, and wrapped HIM in swaddling clothes, and laid HIM in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn."  Luke 2:7

• Book Seven:  The Secret of the Snow Village  (21 minutes)  The streets of grandmother's tiny snow village come to life as Katherine searches for JESUS.  "This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."  Luke 2:12

• Book Eight:  It's Called Christmas (27 minutes)  What happens when Christmas is erased?  Does JESUS disappear?  How do we stop the madness?  "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."  Isaiah 9:6

Fun stories that grab your attention, the books from this Christmas Treasury collection offer much fodder for discussion.  Todd Wilson writes with a relevant passion to share JESUS that speaks to children and adults alike.
You can connect with The Familyman Ministries through the following Social Media Sites: Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest Google + Blog
Treat yourself and those you love to this treasure.  I can't wait to share these stories over and over with friends and family in the months to come because Christmas is coming.  It's on the way.  May GOD bless you as you prepare and anticipate HIS coming.

I was given the opportunity to review The Familyman's Christmas Treasury - Audio Collection as a member of the Homeschool Review Crew.   You can check out the Crew Review and see what other members of the Homeschool Review Crew thought of this and other puzzles as well (or just click on the banner below.)

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#Wisdomantics Game Review & Giveaway

Teaching each of my children to hide GOD's Word in their heart is my number one priority as a mom.   We talk about the Bible as we eat, and as we walk, and as we drive from place to place each day.  We look at the world around us and discuss current events through the filter of what we read in the Bible. These are the moments that draw us closer together.  We enjoy laughing and learning together and being able to reinforce those lessons while playing a game together is a win/win for me.

We recently had the opportunity to play a new Biblically-based board game called Wisdomantics that combines a physical game board and pieces with an interactive DVD that helps determine how much you know about the Bible -- and helps you learn even more.  When we opened the box to begin setting up for play my wise Eagle Scout chimed in that "this game is like Bible monopoly."   The similar board layout made Wisdomantics familiar to us and made beginning play easy.  The interactive component of the game (questions are asked via a DVD that we played right on my laptop) made it fresh and inviting.  We were all excited to begin play -- and the competitive spirit was alive and well as we worked against the timer to see who could answer the most questions correctly.

Getting ready to play

Designed for up to four players ages 12 and older, Wisdomantics teaches biblical concepts through an interactive, fill-in-the blank approach to Scripture.   This style is beneficial for all types of learners -- auditory, visual, and tactile learners each have a chance to succeed.  During play, players both READ and HEAR Scripture, all the while using their hands to "build" Solomon's Temple.  Each correct answer earns players the different materials needed to complete the Temple -- gold, cedar, and cypress.   And that's not all . . .

As you play a game of Wisdomantics, each person is encouraged to find out what prayer requests their opponents might have and then has the opportunity to pray over their friends/family, and bless one another with Grace, Mercy, and Kindness as they share game pieces.  How cool is that?  I LOVE knowing that my family is praying over each other and taking the time to really be a blessing to one another.  This is a most beneficial element to the game because as we play, we show that we care -- and that is a great beginning to a lifetime of empathy and concern.

Building the Temple

About the game:  For 2-4 players, ages 12+

Wisdomantics -- New King James Version (NKJV) is an interactive DVD board game for players of various faiths who desire to gain the vast wisdom of King Solomon. Wisdomantics -- NKJV utilizes the proverbs of Solomon and blends chance, knowledge and strategy to create a fun experience while you learn.  The game’s intent is to bring individuals together to learn how to cope with numerous situations in a fun and relaxed environment.  Inside the box you’ll find 2 interactive DVDs with 400 questions, score cards, blessing cards, and more.  You can watch a How-To video to find out how to set up and play Wisdomantics and you find out even more information about the game on the official website.

We are enjoying time well spent as we study the proverbs of Solomon and strategize to build his Temple.   What a great way to draw our family closer to GOD and to each other.

The family that PLAYS together, PRAYS together

What a fun way to enjoy each other.  You can register to win your very own copy of the Wisdomantics board game today.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks for stopping by and taking a peek into our fun.  Make every moment count that you spend with family -- and make sure to spend as many moments as possible with them.  Family IS what it's all about.

"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.

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Awaken Love Couple's Devotional Review &Giveaway #awakenlove #seethesong

I love hearing my husband pray.  It has always been one of the things that makes me feel closest to him -- when we pray together, out loud, for one another.  There is just something so special about hearing him speak to GOD on my behalf as he kneels before the throne and takes me along with him.  We will celebrate our 24th anniversary this month and often our deepest intimacy comes from time spent studying GOD's Word and praying together.  Those are the moments that make me feel safe and secure and fully loved.

A resource to BLESS your marriage.

Have you heard about the movie The Song that recently released in theatres?  If not, I invite you to watch the trailer of the movie that was inspired by the book of Song of Solomon from the Old Testament.   The Song is a story about marriage and adultery, but it is also the story of reconciliation, and redemption.  Praise GOD, it is a story of HOPE when the sins of the world throw us into the pits of despair.  It shows the very opposite of what the world would have you believe and it provides a vision of what can be when GOD holds us tight when our lives crumble.  The Song should be the story of us all.

Adultery makes us cringe, but GOD makes us whole.  Because all married couples have a heartfelt need and desire for trust, intimacy, and authenticity, the makers of The Song have developed a six-week devotional book for couples to share together as they strive for complete love and forgiveness in their marriage.  This devotional, Awaken Love:  A Couple's Devotional Journey to Awaken Love in Their Marriage will bless your marriage and encourage your soul.

Divided into five daily readings for six weeks, Awaken Love cleverly builds couple-oriented devotionals around song titles.  Each devotional begins with a Bible reading from Song of Solomon and a short teaching (think verses of a song), is followed by a hands-on marriage strengthening activity or discussion starter (the bridge of a song), and ends with a scripture to think and ponder on until the next day.  The sole purpose of Awaken Love is to encourage and challenge your marriage to be all that GOD has in mind for it.  In just a few minutes daily, you will look at your marriage through the eyes of the ONE who created it -- and you will feel the stirrings of love and intimacy in a new way.

About the devotional:  Softcover / 86 pages

Awaken Love:  A Couple’s Devotional Journey is a 6-week book for couples that can help awaken love in their marriage. With daily relationship insights and prayer points drawn from the Song of Solomon, this devotional will help couples grow in their relationship with GOD and one another. 

Inspired by the Song of Solomon, The Song is both a full-length movie and resource for churches to explore GOD’s Plan for relationships, love, and marriage.  I can't wait for the movie to arrive at theatres close to us.  The MainMost and I plan on making it a very special date night.  I am honored to do life beside my husband and I know that prayer has made all the difference in the world in our marriage.  I would love the opportunity to be a part of The Song Small Group Bible Study as well.  I'm recommending this for couples in our church.

About the author:

Kyle Idleman is the Teaching Pastor at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky, the fourth-largest church in America. Author of the award-winning and bestselling book, not a fan., and presenter of eight of City on a Hill’s curriculum series, he regularly speaks at conferences and events around the world. Kyle and his wife DesiRae have four children.

You can find out more on the following Social Media sites:  

Resource website  (there's a super-cool date night guide available)

Twitter

Facebook

Enter to win a copy to #awakenlove as you share the song with your spouse:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

"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.

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The Bible Amigos Book Series: Five Loaves, Two Fish, and One Big Hat

I have always liked to read special books to my children and my favorites are the ones that teach them more about JESUS.  I think that sharing JESUS is the very best part of being a mom.  How about you?   I've found a cute new book series that includes adventure, friendship, and Bible stories especially for children ages 3 - 7 that is just perfect to teach little ones that they can serve GOD.  

The Bible Amigos is a brand-new book series that takes children on fun adventures with lovable animal characters on a flying Bible.  The series consists of two titles so far.  Book One is called Jonah and the Bear and it shows children that they'll be happy as they obey GOD's call to share with others.  Book Two is called Five Loaves, Two Fish, and One Big Hat and it teaches children that they are never too little to serve GOD in a big way. 

The sweet book, Five Loaves, Two Fish, and One Big Hat, tells the story of three amigos named Donk, Edge, and Walla who are whisked away on a flying Bible when a call for help arrives.  The friends travel to the aid of Jorge, a small boy who is always told he is too little to help others.  The Bible Amigos show Jorge that GOD's Word has the answer to every important question and share the story of JESUS feeding the 5,000 with just five loaves of bread and two small fish -- all because a little boy was willing to share everything that he had.  Jorge offers up all he has -- a really big hat --with love and full of trust that GOD will make a way.   And HE does.  Jorge's hat saves the day.

Isn't it wonderful to share the love of JESUS with our little ones?  This book not only shares Bible stories, it also offers other suggested Bible verses for children and parents to read and study together. Children will enjoy both the story and the illustrations as they hide GOD's Word deep in their hearts. I'm looking forward to seeing the expansion of this series and sharing it with the precious little ones in my life.  

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Kirk Cameron's Saving Christmas -- Movie Review & Cool Swag Giveaway

Yes, yes, I KNOW it's not even Thanksgiving but Christmas is coming fast.  Actually, Christmas candy and boxed gifts hit the stores on November 1.  There are only six Saturdays left until Christmas Day so the hustle and bustle of the season is just around the corner. Granted, there's a commercialism to it all that can be a bit frustrating, but I do love Christmas and try to enjoy as much of its trimmings as I can.  I have a few decorations that I leave up year round.  My kids and I are packing shoeboxes and we even have tickets to a Christmas ballet later this week.  Can you believe it?  Bring on Christmas.  

I had absolutely the neatest opportunity last week.  I was invited to participate in a teleconference and Twitter party with none other than Kirk Cameron (Yes --THAT Kirk Cameron) and my family had the opportunity to pre-screen his new movie, Saving Christmas.  I'm excited about what I heard and saw, and I want to make sure that you don't miss out on sharing in the fun.  

Everywhere we look we can see there is a war on Christmas.  Saving Christmas is about putting CHRIST first in Christmas so that we can maximize the JOY that is JESUS.  The movie reminds us that we need to download the Gospel into all of our Christmas preparations because as Christians, this is OUR holiday.  We must remember that this is OUR story and HE is OUR King and we can share HIM with everyone.    A great place to start sharing is by inviting friends and family for a night at the movies.

Saving Christmas makes its debut THIS Friday night, November 14, and will be in theatres for ONLY two weeks.  Isn't it exciting that you can see and hear the Gospel on a screen 50 feet wide and 30 feet tall?  Although I'm not quite ready to begin decorating the house, trimming the tree, and hanging the stockings, after viewing Saving Christmas, I do plan on doing each of these with a new purpose and focus this year.  Our Christmas traditions are rich and full of JESUS  -- if only we have the eyes to see HIM.  This year, I am claiming all of Christmas for HIM because every inch of this creation belongs to JESUS.  We will be rearranging our lives and our home so that every single thing inside of it points to JESUS.  The nutcracker collection, the Nativities, the tree, and the lights -- each one represents a SAVIOR who loves us enough to die for us.  It is my intention this year to let them each tell the great story that JESUS is alive.  

As we celebrate the birth of JESUS this year, we will be sharing LIGHT.  Kirk Cameron's Saving Christmas has encouraged me to make sure that every part of our Christmas celebration will be filled with an invitation to the world to step inside the story of the KING. 

About the movie:  This Christmas, have your family join with Kirk Cameron’s family and dive headfirst into all the joy, dancing, celebration, feasting, imagination, and traditions that glorify the true “reason for the season.”  Kirk Cameron's Saving Christmas is an engaging story that provides a biblical basis for our time-honored traditions and celebrations, and the inspiration to stand strongly against a culture that wants to trivialize and eliminate the faith elements of this holy season.  So take in the splendor; take in the majesty; take in the story.  Take it all in . . . and let’s put CHRIST back in Christmas!  Kirk Cameron's Saving Christmas is in theaters for a limited engagement beginning TOMORROW for only two weeks.  You'll want to make sure and find it in a theatre close to you.  

You can find out MORE by visiting the following places:

Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOSiZIgZ2JQ

Check out the official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SavingChristmasMovie

Official website: http://www.savingchristmas.com

"Join me, and my family, and together let’s put CHRIST back into CHRISTmas. We’ll dive head first into all of the JOY, the dancing, the celebration, the feasting, the imagination and traditions that glorify the true reason for the season.”  - Kirk Cameron

“Saving CHRISTmas is a wonderful defense of CHRISTmas traditions and is quite educational. Candy and I also enjoyed some good laughs. I pray that God will use it to His glory.” 

So, how about a chance to win some cool movie swag?  One lucky reader will win the following:    A Saving Christmas movie poster SIGNED by Kirk Cameron, the complete movie soundtrack, AND a car air freshener to tantalize your senses and get you ready for all things Christmas (it smells like Christmas trees. Yum.)  Are you ready to bring Christmas home with you?  Enter today and come back daily for extra opportunities to win.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Don't miss Christmas this year.  Celebrate evey single aspect of it.  Be ALL about what it's all about. You be the one who is all in and bring your friends and family along with you.  You'll be glad you did.





"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.

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Schoolhouse Review: Purposeful Design #hsreviews

My greatest desire and wish is that each of you -- in seeing the hand of our Creator -- come to fully understand HIS finished work through HIS Son, our LORD and SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST.      ~ author Jay Schabacker

What a wonderful way to end a review year reading about the Purposeful Design of GOD from the very beginning of time.  What a beautifully spoken Dedication to a book (quoted above).  How precious the heart of an author who desires GOD's very best for each reader.  It is with great delight that I share Purposeful Design with you.  I am a creationist.  I believe that everything was created by GOD's hand and that in the very beginning HE very simply spoke it all into being.  I know that GOD is the Masterful Creator and that we are HIS Masterpiece.  What an honor for us all that HE chose to include us in HIS Design.

Purposeful Design:  Understanding the Creation (currently $18.95) is a beautiful hardcover book for all ages to read, share, and learn about GOD's perfect plan.  This evangelical book is perfect for the exploration of the wonders that GOD has provided us as it walks us through the seven days of biblical creation.  There is even a Purposeful Design Young Explorer's Club that offers free complementary curriculum in workbook format (30 page PDF plus a Teacher's Key with Certificate of Completion) that makes this an all-inclusive, hands-on study of Genesis Chapter 1.  The student workbook is a helpful addition to the study of the book for elementary age readers and above.  We have found useful elements for both my middle and high schooler.  (I printed each of them a copy of the curriculum workbooks for their science notebooks for future reference.)  I love the reading comprehension activities, the artistic challenges, the additional Scripture references to ponder, and the prayer prompts.  

Author Jay Schabacker has done an excellent job of integrating the principles of science, the elements of design, and the WORD of GOD throughout Purposeful Design:  Understanding the Creation as he explains the truth of In the Beginning through the seven chapters in his book.  Each chapter directly correlates with one day of Creation as discovered in Genesis, Chapter One.  Beginning with The First Day:  Creation of the Heavens and the Earth and the Foundation of it All and ending with a call to rest on The Seventh Day, Schabacker takes his readers on a journey of epic proportions.  Within 91 pages of beauty, readers are invited to look closely at the purposeful design (not the accidental mistake that some would have you to believe) of a loving and benevolent GOD and to examine the science behind each element of life.  Jay explains the how and why of GOD's design and shares some neat aspects of HIS plan including celestial navigation, the exact tilt of the Earth's axis that gives us Seasons, and our unique body parts and functions that are created in HIS very image.  

I waited anxiously for this review.  We make it a point to recognize the beauty of the world around us and to marvel at the creativity of GOD.  I was excited to share the scientific aspects of the book with both the Eagle Scout and Princess (and with the MainMost, too) as we continued our ongoing discussion of GOD's creation of the Earth.  It was fascinating to read the biblical transcription intermingled with the scientific proof that GOD did just what HE said HE did.  We chose to read chapters of the book together as part of Science each day as it complemented both the Earth Science and Chemistry classes my 8th and 10th graders are involved in.  The beautiful, award-winning book was also continually available for personal reflection outside of "school."  It has remained on the ottoman (the closest thing we have to a "coffee table") for easy access to read, to peruse, and to enjoy often.    

Always available to enjoy

The book speaks to my heart personally as I believe that we live on a fairly young earth.  My husband believes that we live on an old earth.  Either way, we both believe that GOD is the Master Designer and created it all.  Purposeful Design:  Understanding the Creation offers good fodder for family discussions as we read and interpret the Bible for ourselves.

This is a book that will span the ages of your children and be a treasured friend as they grow.  Very young children will enjoy the pictures and could easily listen as parents or older siblings share parts of the reading with them.  Older children will enjoy turning the pages of the book and exploring the different topics on their own.  Families will enjoy the opportunity to discuss the book as they sit at home and as they walk along the road (Deuteronomy 6:7).  Please take a look at the chapter excerpts available on the website (three full chapters plus the abbreviated Table of Contents are offered) -- I believe you're going to like what you see and want to have your very own copy for your family to see the Hands of the Creator.  You can also explore more with Purposeful Design on the following Social Media sites:

Blog

Facebook

Twitter

or find Jay on LinkedIn as Jayschab

I'm so thankful that GOD has a plan and included us in it.  Aren't you?  Because of HIM, today really does have GREAT POTENTIAL.

I was given the opportunity to review Purposeful Design:  Understanding the Creation as a member of the Schoolhouse ReviewCrew.   You can check out the Crew Review and see what other members of the Schoolhouse ReviewCrew thought of this and other products as well (or just click on the banner below.)

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