Old Fashioned by Rene Gutteridge and Rik Swartzwelder

Old Fashioned: Former frat boy Clay Walsh has given up his reckless lifestyle and settled down to run an antique shop in a small Midwestern college town. Determined to put his partying ways behind him, Clay has become notorious for his lofty and outdated theories on love and romance. But when Amber Hewson, a free-spirited woman with a gypsy soul, rents the apartment above his shop, Clay can’t help being attracted to her spontaneous and passionate embrace of life.

New to the area, Amber finds herself surprisingly drawn to Clay and his noble ideas, but her own fears and deep wounds are difficult to overcome. Can they move beyond their differences and their pasts to attempt an “old-fashioned” courtship? (publisher synopsis)

My Review: I love the books that Rene Gutteridge writes, and this adaptation of a screenplay by Rik Swartzwelder lived up to my expectations. Filled with quirky yet believable characters that fully engage you and come to life on the page. As the characters developed and the story unfolded, I would frequently find myself laughing out loud, yet was also moved to tears during some moments.

Both Chad and Amber were so determined to run away from their pasts and become opposite of what they once were, yet each were becoming trapped in lifestyles that are difficult to maintain. The attraction to one another, and a longing for something to be a bit different sparks a blossoming romance that is sure to captivate a reader. This really is an old fashioned romance and I am ready for it to make a comeback.

The secondary characters bring an added layer to the story and each presents a slightly different viewpoint. Even the ones that first appeared to have little to add to the storyline were skillfully woven in to add a richness that makes this above many novels I have read. I truly hated to see the book come to an end. On the plus side, the film version is coming to theaters in Feb 2015. I was provided with a few clips to preview and I can hardly wait to see the movie!

 

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers in order to write this review. I was not asked to write a positive review; just my honest opinion.

Old Fashioned movie on Facebook

Tyndale House Publishers has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book - See more at: http://www.tyndaleblognetwork.com/5_nav/guidelines.php#sthash.SpRSg6FT.dpuf

Tyndale House Publishers has provided you with a complimentary copy of this book - See more at: http://www.tyndaleblognetwork.com/5_nav/guidelines.php#sthash.SpRSg6FT.dpuf

Rik Swartzwelder interview 

Old Fashioned movie website

"Old Fashioned" on IMDb 

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast by Kristen Feola

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast is an inspiring resource for Christians who want to pursue a more intimate relationship with God through the 21-day commitment to prayer and fasting known as the Daniel Fast. As you deny yourself certain foods - such as sugars, processed ingredients, and solid fats - you will not only embrace healthier eating habits, you’ll also discover a greater awareness of God’s presence. Author Kristen Feola explains the Daniel Fast in easy-to-understand language, provides 21 thought-provoking devotionals for each day of the fast, and shares more than 100 tasty, easy-to-make recipes that follow fasting guidelines. In a conversational style, Feola helps you structure the fast so you can spend less time thinking about what to eat and more time focusing on God. You will also discover that “to fast” means “to feast” on the only thing that truly nourishes? God’s powerful Word. For more info, please visit www.ultimatedanielfast.com. (publisher)
 
Each January more and more people I know take 3 weeks in January to do the "Daniel Fast". After the excitement and over-indulgences from Thanksgiving on through New Year's Day, the need to refresh, renew, and have a time of cleansing or starting over is strong. The majority of people I know are Christians, so we have just gone through a season of celebration and worship, but it is easier to get a bit distracted. The Daniel Fast is perfect to get your focus on the basics of what you need to survive and thrive both physically and spiritually.

My Review: The book is divided into 3 separate sections, and I like the way it is set up. First, though, she begins with an introduction on the purpose of fasting and how her book can help you plan in advance. You don't want to jump into a fast, bewildered and not having some type of structured idea of what and why...and how.

1. The Fast: This section tells you more about the history behind the Daniel Fast, along with other fasts that are mentioned in the Bible. Even Daniel had more than 1 fast, and there are several others mentioned too. There are different reasons for fasting and Feola goes into the different types. I love the way she goes through the various things you should do before you begin to fast and her explanations on the purpose of a Biblical fast.
2. The Focus: This is my favorite part. The 21 days of devotion and study that allow the reader to feast on the Word of God and nourish her soul. As we focus more on what He has to say and less on what we want to eat (that's why you should plan ahead), we develop a greater reliance on God and enter into a deeper relationship with Him.
3. The Food: I am not a cook! It is okay to do sometimes, but I honestly don't understand how people can enjoy it. Needless to say, I was a bit chagrined to find over 150 pages of recipes and meal plans. Seriously, I have never even heard of some of the ingredients. However, pretty pictures of some of the meals did get me to look up some of the recipes. Quite a few are things I am never going to have the patience (or money) to try, but enough of them have tempted me to consider trying to make them. There is a large variety of recipes and should be enough to tempt people into incorporating many into their diet plans even after the fast has ended. My biggest complaint is that it all seems a bit expensive, especially for a fast in the middle of Winter.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

About the Author
Kristen Feola is the author of the best-selling book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast, an encouraging and engaging resource for individuals, small groups, and churches participating in the Daniel Fast. Her blog, http://www.ultimatedanielfast.com, inspires thousands of people around the world. Kristen is a frequent contributor to Pentecostal Evangel magazine, and her writing has appeared in a variety of Christian and health-related publications. She has worked as a personal trainer, fitness instructor, and nutritional consultant. Kristen lives in Springfield, Missouri, with her husband and two daughters.

Men's Bible - Good News Translation

American Bible Society and National Coalition of Ministries to Men (NCMM) have joined forces to create and distribute The Men’s Bible. The first Bible from both organizations with features tailored to meet the unique needs of men, The Men’s Bible contains 72 devotions written by experts in men’s ministry, and is the only Bible focusing on the three most common areas in which men struggle: marriage, pornography, and friendship. 

Using the Good News Translation, The Men’s Bible is divided into three sections: The Tool Kit, The Battle, and The Challenge. The Tool Kit serves as a concordance, providing Scripture references for topical study. The Battle contains 60 devotionals, written by NCMM men’s ministry experts, focusing on Christian purpose, priorities, and living. The Challenge provides additional devotional content focusing on marriage, pornography, and friendship—the three areas of life that NCMM has observed to frequently present stumbling blocks. (publisher's description) 

My Review: I had been searching for a Bible to recommend for a man who was seeking God and wanted to learn more about Christianity. He had some knowledge from his childhood, but had never read the Bible as an adult. So, I jumped at the chance to review The Men's Bible when it was offered to me. I have read through it and looked at the devotions. The Battle, The Tool Kit, and The Challenge were excellent additions that clearly answered questions and brought focus on things a man needs to know as he grows in his faith. However, I also wanted input from the person who was asking me questions. He has not read it all yet, but did go through enough to let me know that it is easy to read and understand, and that he really appreciated finding discussions on some of his own questions.

The Good News Translation is not my favorite, but it is easy to read. What I disliked about this Bible is that there was no room for jotting down notes and that it is hard to read some of the words due to lack of margin in the center. On the other hand, this is a soft cover Bible that is easy to hold in one hand (and I have small hands) as you use the other to turn pages (And hold flat so I can read the middle). I get frustrated when I am trying to hold a Bible to read and it is either too big or the hard cover does not give me the flexibility I need. Overall, I really like this Bible. It is a good tool for men's ministries to have available for guys who do not have a Bible and are just starting on their faith walk. The additions are also easy to find to answer questions when speaking to others about your faith and the devotions from men's ministry leaders are excellent. 

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Men's Bible from Icon Media Group in exchange for an honest review.

Susie's Hope DVD

Susie's Hope is based on the true story that helped to pass "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.

Realizing that abuse was largely to blame for the tragic attack that nearly caused her to lose her life 10 months earlier, Donna rescues the battered puppy. As they both heal and recover from their life-threatening injuries, Donna and her friend, Ramona, lead a historic effort to seek justice and protection, not only for Susie, but all animals. Starring Emmanuelle Vaguer (40 Days and 40 Nights), Burgess Jenkins (Remember The Titans) and Andrea Powell (Ender’s Game, The Twighlight: Breaking Dawn Saga: Part 2), Susie’s Hope is an incredible story of love, loss and redemption.

Watch and share the Susie’s Hope trailer!

My Review: The film deals with many tragic events, but does so in a manner that does make it acceptable for family viewing. There is recovery and healing, but also a strong message to portray about the neglect and abuse of pets. I confess that I don't quite understand people who treat their pets as children, but I do love animals and definitely think those who abuse them should be punished. My only negative to the film was that I felt like the audience was being manipulated during the courtroom scene. I found it distracting. Of course, that is also to be expected for a film that is not only telling a story, but also is supporting a cause. You want the audience to be entirely on your side.

I did watch with my teenaged grandson, who does have pit bulls, and does not have the prejudice toward that breed that many others have. His opinion of the film: "It was very touching." I think the film could be used as an educational tool to raise awareness of the tragedy behind the abuse of animals and to demonstrate what a difference it makes to treat your pets with kindness and care for them. The relationship between Susie and Donna was healing for both of them and for Donna's husband, Roy.

"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.

GIVEAWAY: Propeller Consulting, LLC also has a DVD for one of my readers. Please leave your name and a comment on the blog post to be entered into a drawing. Drawing will be Mon, Dec 15th at 1pm CST. 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.

About Susie:

Susie was found nearly dead in Greenfield Park in Greensboro, North Carolina on August 20, 2009. Just a puppy, Susie had licked the face of her owner’s newborn baby. Her owner became violent—she was beaten so severely her jaw was broken. That wasn’t enough, though. She was then set on fire and left for dead. Incredibly and against all odds Susie survived. Donna Lawrence adopted her two months later. Susie is now a trained therapy dog and even won the American Humane Association’s American Hero Dog this year!

Check out and share Susie’s Hero Dog Award Video here!

This website is a GREAT resource for all things Susie / Susie’s Hope related

Jesus is the Good News! What's in the Bible? Vol 10

What's in the Bible? is a 13 volume set of DVDs that explain the Bible to your kids from Genesis to Revelation in a way that is fun and informative. VeggieTales creator, Phil Visher, is the creator and host of this series that is filled with entertaining characters, music, and valuable basic knowledge about the Bible.
 
Volume 10: Jesus is the Good News, an introduction to the New Testament, includes TWO 25 minute episodes:  

God’s Perfect Timing - Buck Denver and crew learn about the 400 years between the Old and New Testaments and how Jesus arrives at just the perfect time.

The Messiah Has Come! - Learn about the life and ministry of Jesus-how He died for us and rose again to launch the kingdom of God in the world and in us!

The DVD contains the following:

• Intertestamental Period
• John the Baptist
• Jesus’ Miracles, Healings & Teachings
• Jesus Feeds 5,000
• The Kingdom of God
• The Last Supper, Jesus’ Arrest and Trial
• Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection
• Jesus’ Ascension

My Review: I loved this DVD. Phil Vischer has a way to reach kids on a level they will understand, yet still provide entertainment for the adults who are watching. Even more than the entertainment, though, is the wonderful lessons learned. Actually, there was even one thing taught from an angle I had never considered. At least I had never given it much thought. There were also a few things that I did not realize until I was an adult, so it is refreshing to see kids learning about the Bible, the significance of events, and the authors of the books. I highly recommend this DVD, and have no doubt that the others are also top-notch. It is recommended for 1st-4th grade...but I enjoyed it immensely. 

What's in the Bible? website
What's in the Bible? on Facebook

"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.

Congrats to winner, Gayle Aycock!

Jesus Boat - Witness to Prophecy DVD

Jesus Boat - Witness To Prophecy synopsis: The astounding prophetic rebirth of Israel is told through the discovery of an ancient and unlikely artifact found under the shores of the Sea of Galilee. A first century fishing boat, identical to the boat Jesus sailed upon with his disciples, was destroyed in the years Israel was destroyed by the Romans, but found 2000 years later in a series of astonishing events that even scientists called a miracle. Mirroring Israel's own story of devastation and survival, the boat from the time of Jesus, would rise against all odds and float upon the Sea of Galilee once more as the oldest surviving freshwater boat in the world. Featuring commentary from some of the great theologians of our day including Franklin Graham, Joel Rosenberg, Jay Sekulow, Skip Heitzig, Chuck Smith and more. (back cover)

My Review: I don't remember hearing about the discovery of the boat, but the documentary did sound intriguing. The DVD is is better than I had hoped for, and one that I recommend to all believers and history buffs. Called the Jesus boat because it has been dated to the time when Jesus was on Earth, it was discovered by brothers, Moshe and Yuval Lufan, during a severe drought in the 1980s. This story alone, with the trials of carefully excavating the boat, various groups claiming ownership, and time factors that had to be considered, along with the tales of God's blessings and solutions to problems are fascinating on their own. But, I was completely absorbed in the realization of all of the prophecy fulfilled as Scripture was compared to historical events. This DVD is one that historians (particularly of Jewish history) and those with an interest in archaeology...or even fishing, will enjoy. As a Christian, this documentary made the Bible come even more vividly to life.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this DVD from Elliot Wallach to review. I was not required to write a positive review.

I also been given a copy to give to one of my readers. Leave a comment (or message me to add your name) if you want to be entered. Deadline is December 5th, 2014.

The Jesus Boat- Witness to Prophecy, produced by Edify Films and Jesus Boat Incorporated, features commentary from Franklin Graham, Joel Rosenberg, Jay Sekulow, Skip Heitzig, Chuck Smith, Ken Ortize and more. The movie is being distributed by Word Entertainment^. www.JesusBoatMovie.com.

.A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records and Fervent Records.

Kirk Cameron's Saving Christmas

Have you lost the joy of celebrating Christmas? Kirk Cameron and family dive headfirst into Christmas this season. KIRK CAMERON’S SAVING CHRISTMAS is a film that provides a Biblical basis for many of the traditions of Christmas and gives a refreshing perspective for the feasts, dancing, joy, and fun that surrounds the reason for this season. We live in a culture that wants to take away all faith aspects: not just the nonbelievers, but also some Christians. Kirk Cameron explains why you should take it all and put Christ back in Christmas. Saving Christmas is in theaters for a limited engagement beginning November 14 for two weeks only!

Christmas time is almost here (unless you are a retailer. They start a bit earlier each year), and each year it really does seem like there is a war on Christmas. Some people simply love Christmas and celebrate however they want and there are others who quietly ignore it all. The combatants, however, are those who are determined that no religious symbols be attached to Christmas, along with the Christians who warn of paganism and idolatry versus the militant Christians who angrily demand that you will say "Merry CHRISTmas"...or else! So, what position does Saving Christmas take?

I thought it was a fun, informative film that did a very good presentation of their point of view, but I could not embrace the film 100%. I'll start with the negatives, mostly technical. Sometimes the sound and lighting were not up to standard. There were also camera angles that I disliked, or moments of rushed movement to the point I even felt a bit dizzy for a second or two. Most of it was near the beginning, so I just felt it got off to a rough start. The story got a little too silly for me at times, but nothing major. A little eye-rolling on my part, but not enough to ruin the film.

However, there was also genuinely humorous moments that made me smile, and even laugh. The premise was a gathering of family and friends but with one person who rejected the commercialism and the pagan symbols connected with Christmas. Kirk gives a tie-in to Christianity with each objectionable issue that brought a special meaning to each. There was a section on the swaddling clothes Jesus wore in the manger that truly touched me. Actually, the movie is worth seeing for that alone. Technically, there were also some scenes (appeared to be CGI) that were amazing and made up for my earlier tech criticisms.

It is a fun film about a family embracing their faith and celebrating the birth of Jesus. While it was a bit cheesy at times, and it leaned more toward being a documentary, I honestly did like it. My son and his girlfriend were at the house the night I was watching it, and they enjoyed it. My son even mentioned someone he wished could see it because that family refuses to acknowledge Christmas. Do I think it will change the minds of those adamantly opposed to Christmas? Probably not. But, it did rekindle the spark of celebrating Christmas within me that has been dying over the last few years. So, if you need to jump start that feeling of joy and the true reason we celebrate, go see Saving Christmas while it is in theaters.

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  GIVEAWAY!! Leave a comment on the blog post letting me know what your favorite Christmas tradition is to be entered into this contest. The prize is a Saving Christmas movie poster, signed by Kirk Cameron, the Saving Christmas soundtrack cd, and car air fresheners that smell like Christmas trees! Deadline to enter is 11pm (CST) on Nov. 22, 2014.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.” Open to US and Canada residents only.
  
  

"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.

Follow @KirkCameron on Twitter
Saving Christmas on FB
Kirk Cameron's Saving Christmas websiteFind A Theater

The Blessed Church by Robert Morris

In The Blessed Church, Pastor Robert Morris of Gateway Church explores how a church can be fast-growing and spiritually-enriching—and still healthy. With the powerful stories, candor, and humor he’s known for, Morris shows how every component of your church—including mission, government, teaching, worship, small groups, giving, and outreach—can receive God’s richest blessings. Written for both church leaders and laypeople, The Blessed Church explores the vision and other qualities that make church “work”—regardless of size--in the twenty-first century. (back cover description)



Read Chapter One

My Review: This is a book that I would consider more for pastors and leaders within a church, but I did find it interesting as a lay person. I also admit that I was curious because I watch Gateway online every weekend. I tend to be a bit leery of mega-churches, but the solid Biblical teaching makes me wish I lived near enough to attend. The chance to learn more about the thinking behind the growth of Gateway and their structure gives me even more confidence that Robert Morris is a man who seeks the Lord and has the desire to minister to his congregation in a way that promotes healthy growth and a desire to be merely a bench/pew warmer. 

It's not enough to just soak in the teaching each week; you need to become equipped to minister to others. This is the church Robert Morris considers blessed. I know some look at that word plus mega-church and think "prosperity gospel". Absolutely not! I think most strong leaders have a touch of arrogance about them, but Morris works within a plan that makes him (and the rest of his staff) accountable to one another. I believe there is a lot of good in the way Gateway does things. My main objection was the current buzzword "empower" that annoys me, but I actually have a deeper understanding of what is meant by it now and don't find it as irksome. He does sometimes give me a new way to think about things.

Bottom line is that I would recommend The Blessed Church more for those in positions of leadership, but I do believe that it is suitable for anyone who is seeking their own healthy growth. I give it 4.5 stars.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book at no charge from WaterBrook Multnomah's Blogging For Books program in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Robert Morris is the Founding and Senior Pastor of Gateway Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Since it began in 2000, Gateway has grown to more than 16,000 active members. Robert is featured on the weekly television program, The Blessed Life, seen in 80 million homes in the United States and in more than 200 countries around the world. He is the best-selling author of nine books, including The Blessed Life, From Dream to Destiny, and The Power of Your Words.

Robert Morris is the Founding and Senior Pastor of Gateway Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Since it began in 2000, Gateway has grown to more than 16,000 active members. Robert is featured on the weekly television program, The Blessed Life, seen in 80 million homes in the United States and in more than 200 countries around the world. He is the best-selling author of nine books, including The Blessed Life, From Dream to Destiny, and The Power of Your Words. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author-spotlight.php?authorid=125406#sthash.flU15VAi.dpuf

Robert Morris is the Founding and Senior Pastor of Gateway Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Since it began in 2000, Gateway has grown to more than 16,000 active members. Robert is featured on the weekly television program, The Blessed Life, seen in 80 million homes in the United States and in more than 200 countries around the world. He is the best-selling author of nine books, including The Blessed Life, From Dream to Destiny, and The Power of Your Words. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author-spotlight.php?authorid=125406#sthash.flU15VAi.dpuf

Iesodo - Joy dvd

JOY is a special re-imagining of the Nativity story. Let your heart take flight and tweet along to holiday carols and all-new songs! Festivities are in full swing as the flock prepares to celebrate Iesodo's birthday! The Cypress Tree is decked out with holly berries and excitement is in the air. Everyone gathers as Rocky shares the incredible story of Iesodo's birth.

Unto Us A Dove Is Born: "Festivities are in full swing as the flock prepares to celebrate Iesodo's birthday! The Cypress Tree is decked out with holly berries and excitement is in the air. Everyone gathers as Rocky shares the story of this amazing day, and how it changed their lives forever."

My Review: In time for Christmas season, a new cartoon, and one that celebrates the birth of Jesus. This has been my favorite of the Iesodo series (still have not seen "Believe"). It tells the story of the nativity on a level that younger children would understand, and also has hints of what life was like during the final days Jesus was on earth. It gives a good foundational base for children, but without making it seem like a sermon. Kids will love the bright colors and songs that they will soon be singing along with. I confess that "We Three Kings" was my favorite, largely because it reminded me of the Claymation Christmas version...but with wise owls. I recommend this as a great new addition for your kids to watch, so pick up a copy.

For those, like me, who don't like to start Christmas season until after Thanksgiving, this would be a fun video for the family to watch together after decorating the house and putting up your tree. What better way to start the season off right, but by reminding your kids of the true meaning of Christmas and why we celebrate.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of the DVD from Edify Media to enable me to write a fair and honest review.

Iesodo website

Iesodo on Facebook

FULL SERIES: Iesodo (YAY-sa-doe) is a wise white dove whose name means "The Way of Jesus". He and his feathered friends bring your favorite New Testament stories to life in a whole new way.   Iesodo and his friends live in the Holy Land, in a beautiful Cypress Tree on the shores of a vast Lake (or as we know it, the Sea of Galilee). These birds are an unlikely group of friends, and though they have their differences, they have one thing in common: since they met Iesodo, their lives have never been the same. Now they’re out to spread his message of hope to the entire bird world!

Zaya Toonz, the animation company behind Iesodo, assembled a collaboration of animation experts with experience in both the children’s and Christian markets.  Directors for the series include Brian E. Ray whose credits consist of “Muppet Babies,” “My Little Pony Tales” and “Ed, Ed, and Eddy,” as well as Colin Brady, whose credits include “Toy Story,” “Toy Story 2” and “A Bug's Life.” Brady also served as the former animation supervisor for Pixar Animation Studios. Producer Eric S. Rollman, President of Rollman Entertainment, formerly served as President of Production for Fox Kids and Marvel, and writer/producer Rob Loos is an Emmy Nominee and writer/producer for “McGee and Me,” “Christmas Lamb,” “Kids 10 Commandments” and “Touched by an Angel.” The “Iesodo” series also features the voice of Erin Bethea (“Fireproof,” “Amazing Love”) as Maggie. For more information, visit http://www.iesodo.com.

About Capitol Christian Distribution: Capitol Christian Distribution is the market leader in Christian and Gospel music distribution, and also represents a diverse range of chart topping Christian films and books, reaching the US Christian specialty and general retail marketplace and physical and digital retailers in more than 50 countries around the world.  


*Except for my review, most of this is from the Iesodo press release. 

VIP by Manic Drive

Manic Drive is a Canadian band who always delivers a great show, but  is also intent on reaching out to their generation with a clear message of having a deeper walk with Christ. As they tour the US and Canada, this group of musicians, all in their 20s, live out the faith they proclaim to their fans. With multiple Billboard Top 10 and 20 singles on CHR & Christian Rock Radio, they continue to grow creatively and in their personal development.


Connect with Manic Drive:

Manic Drive website

Manic Drive on YouTube

Follow @ManicDrive on Twitter

Manic Drive on Facebook

My Review: I have mixed views on this one. First off, there is no doubt that these guys are talented! They sing great, they have a great message, and the energy is definitely flowing. It is just more of my personal taste in music. Some of it is just a tad too much techno-pop and disco-esque (is that a word?) for me. I confess that not all Christian music brings me to a place of worship & praise to God, so that is  not my issue. But my patience was tested with too many songs in a row. (I am the same way with Gospel quartets, so I can't blame it all on my age.) I simply enjoyed it better if I would listen to one song rather than the entire album.

My favorite was "Song To Sing", and I did really enjoy Manwell (of Group 1 Crew) on "VIP". I also liked "King of Mercy" a lot. It felt more like one I would be singing to God. So, for me personally, it isn't a cd I will listen to frequently (and will probably pass along to a grandchild), but I have to respect the talent and I do know a lot of people who will love this one.

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising"): I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

When Calls the Heart: Change of Heart

The latest dvd to be released in the When Calls the Heart series is Change of Heart.

Synopsis - Jack (Daniel Lissing) gets Elizabeth (Erin Krakow) to agree to join him for a dinner date and lets her know he is interested in a courtship,  just as Elizabeth’s younger sister, Julie Thatcher (Charlotte Hegele), arrives in Coal Valley, surprising Elizabeth.  Julie is accompanied by Mountie Patrick O’Reilly (Ken Tremblett), the man who has come to replace Jack as the new Constable of Coal Valley. Jack had forgotten all about his transfer request, so now decisions must be made.

This is the episode that many fans have been looking forward to through the entire series. Jack and Elizabeth finally admit to each other (and themselves) that there is an attraction that goes beyond friendship. Of course there are twists and turns throughout the storyline, but these are one of the things that make this series so intriguing to the fans. Julie finds herself attracted to a man who may not be what he seems, and Mr. Gowen is showing an unusual interest in Abigail. As usual, the production qualities are above far, and the story engages the viewers interest...and leaves us wanting more!

DISCLAIMER: I was given the above mentioned DVD for review purposes only from Edify Media.  No monetary compensation was received.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

Pre-order on Amazon

Michael Landon Jr. – Director:  Michael Landon Jr., son of the late television legend Michael Landon, has been in the film business for over 25 years.  With two of the highest rated films in the history of the Hallmark channel, and several top ten releases targeted to the Christian market, Michael has become known for creating heartfelt, inspiring films that connect to the family.  He has developed and/or produced, directed, and written screenplays for Fox, CBS, NBC, Disney, Sony, Lifetime, and others.

 Brian Bird- Writer/Producer : Brian Bird is co-founder with partner Michael Landon, Jr., of Believe Pictures, a film and television production company.  He was co-executive producer and writer on the successful television series, Touched by an Angel.  Adding to Brian’s success, he had also written and produced episodes of Evening Shade, Step by Step and The Family Man.  Most recently, Bird wrote and produced Gametime, a two-hour television pilot for NBC, The Shunning, inspired by the novel by best-selling author Beverly Lewis, for the Hallmark Channel, and Not Easily Broken, adapted from the novel by T.D. Jakes and released theatrically by Sony/TriStar.

About Word Entertainment:  A leader in the music industry for over 60 years, Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company, is a unique, comprehensive entertainment company comprised of multi-faceted artist service departments including publishing, merchandising, booking, and online initiatives. Word Entertainment represents some of the top names and brands in music, including Meredith Andrews, Chris August, BarlowGirl, Francesca Battistelli, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Castro, Patrick Ryan Clark, Everfound, for KING & COUNTRY, Group 1 Crew, Love & The Outcome, Dara Maclean, Point Of Grace and Sidewalk Prophets and is home to 25 Entertainment, Word Distribution (representing Curb Records and Big Idea/VeggieTales among others), Word Print, Word Films, Word Music Publishing and Word Label Group’s Word Records, Word Worship and Fervent Records.

Sue Hooley - 2015 Daily Planner

With busy schedules, everyone is always looking for the best way to keep track of what they need to do. I was excited to have a chance to review Sue Hoovey's Daily Planner. This 6x9 spiral bound book is an easy-to-use planner that is easy to write in, sturdy and compact, but is also attractive and gives lots of room for all you need to keep up with. I also loved the weekly Scriptures inside the book.

Sue, a mother of six, simply ran out of room when she tried to write down all that her family scheduled, so she needed something more versatile and with adequate space to record activities and appointments. Whether you have a large family or are a family of one, this is, by far, the most efficient planner I have ever used. Sue graciously supplied a 2014 version to try out for review purposes, as well as a 2015 planner, so I did get to find out exactly how effective it was for me. I don't have as much to schedule with running a household as many users, but it helped me schedule my reviews and tasks for the various clients I have as a social media assistant.

Features include: 

• Two-page Weekly layout with menu planning and to-do list
• Two-page Month layout
• Year Calendars with place for notations
• Perforated Shopping Lists
• Tasks Lists and Projects; Events Sections
• Information Section

Take a look inside:

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To purchase your own (or buy as Christmas gifts), click on this link. There is FREE SHIPPING on 3 or more planners (USA only) and discounted prices on multiple purchases. Order now!

 Disclosure: I received this product at no cost to myself as a member of the CWA Review Crew. In exchange, I was only asked to write an honest review of the product.