Loving The Bad Man

Julie (Christine Kelly) is a young, conservative Christian who is very zealous living out her faith. When a flat tire causes her to have to go into a very rough bar to use the phone [no cell signal], the bartender suggests a customer, Mike (Arturo Fernandez --now Arturo Rossi), may be able to help. The very drunk and angry mechanic changes Julie’s tire but then forces himself on her. Julie is able to identify him & he is quickly apprehended and sentenced to prison. Her family is ready to put this all behind them until it is discovered Julie is pregnant. They urge her to abort, but Julie refuses to even consider it. Realizing that she must forgive this rapist, she takes matters even further by visiting him in prison and forging an unlikely friendship.

Loving the Bad Man was mostly advertised as a Stephen Baldwin film. He was indeed in it...I'm just not sure why. I never did figure out the prison politics and gangs angle, although it was shown a lot and Baldwin's character was crucial to the ending of the movie. One of the prisoners, Cecil (George Smith) was a wiser, older gentleman whose character really reminded me of the role Morgan Freeman played in The Shawshank Redemption. [Another actor I found more compelling to watch was "Manny" ~ Pedro Moreno] To be fair, I have no prison experience, so they may have been showing an honest portrayal of inmates.

Even more disturbing to me was Julie's family! The brother was a DJ at a local radio show (yet I could barely understand a word he said), and I never quite understood his character. He stayed pretty happy, esp for one with those parents. The mom would go into hysterics at lightning speed and certainly was not the anchor of the family. The dad! Frankly, he scared me more than the rapist! With the way he would fly off the handle, it was easy to understand why the rest of the family seemed more than a bit dysfunctional.

The theme of the movie was great. The Bible certainly instructs us to show forgiveness. There were also instances of redemption, laying down your life for another, kindness, reaching out to others. Oh, and the music....it was okay. I would probably listen to it now & then, but it was played too loud over the scenes and the words were so well suited to the action that it became a bit funny to me. Obviously, the person who selected the music was very involved with the film and I know I should be much more favorably impressed.

           ***************SPOILER ALERT***************

The ending even made it appear that the family was being restored...yet I noticed the brother and Julie's friend/potential boyfriend were both conspicuously absent from the fun family photos. Perhaps they were at work, or on a mission trip, or even the photographers, but it seemed more likely that they escaped from the family.

Ring The Bell

Ring The Bell is the story of a sports agent, Rob Decker (Ryan Scharoun) who lives for his work and how to make money. When challenged by his assistant (Trenell Mooring) to get out into the field and personally sign a high school baseball superstar, Shawn Hart (Craig C. Stewart), Rob accepts what he believes will be an easy deal. But, when Rob becomes stranded in the small town the people begin to give Rob a new way to view things. Content with the simple things of life, and more interested in God's plan for their lives over fame and fortune, Daisy (Ashley Anderson McCarthy), and her brother Scooter (Casey Bond)--- who own the boys home where Shawn lives--- really open his eyes to another set of values. Will Rob respond to the desire to let God in his life?

Ring The Bell features a host of well-known Christian music artists, such as Mark Hall along with his band Casting Crowns, Steven Curtis Chapman, and Matthew West, all who play a role in this inspirational drama. Several former and current Major League Baseball all-stars are also featured in the film: ESPN analysts John Kruk and Rick Sutcliffe (a former Cy Young Award winner), along with Ben Zobrist.

This family-friendly movie was produced by Mark Miller, Beach Street Records' founder and Casting Crowns’ producer. Miller, who is also the lead singer and founder of country music group Sawyer Brown, co-wrote the script with Thomas Weber and Weber directed the production. 

DVD Special Features:

The Heart of "Ring the Bell"

Casting Crowns “The Well” Music Video


On Set with Casting Crowns

Famous Faces


A Very Special Movie


Ringing the Bell


The Artists and Music of "Ring The Bell"

 "Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Overall, I enjoyed the film. Some of those involved are clearly more comfortable being onscreen as an actor than others, but no one was just horribly bad. I also grew tired of some of the more extreme quirkiness of a couple of the characters. I realize that it is standard to have those characters populate all small towns in films, but sometimes they go a bit beyond quirky. These complaints, however, are trivial matters in my overall impression of the film.
 

The story line was good and was presented in a way that is palatable to most. There is no blood, violence, bad language, etc. to make it unacceptable for family viewing. The gospel is presented, but I feel this is more a film that gives the viewer a look at how following Christ has made an impact on the lives of the characters who are believers. Most of the people I know live out their faith like these people, so it was all familiar to me. Would I show this film to family and friends who are not believers? Yes, especially those who love music and/or baseball. I also recommend it to people who are believers and want to watch a Christian worldview film that both entertains and demonstrates the validity of living out their faith and following God's will. Btw, I LOVED the whole concept of "ringing the bell"!! It is a perfect example of Matthew 10:32-33.

Website:  Ring The Bell (the movie)

Watch the Trailer: Ring The Bell

Facebook: Ring The Bell

 GIVEAWAY: FlyBy Promotions has a copy in their office to mail to one of my readers. Please leave a comment on the blog post to be entered. You must be entered no later than 10pm, Thursday, May 9, 2013 to be eligible.

This Is Our Time

 This Is Our Time tells the interwoven stories of Luke (T.J. Dalrymple) and Alé (Erin Bethea), who marry right after school and move to India to serve as missionaries for Embrace A Village, a ministry that cares for those afflicted with leprosy and their families; aspiring financier Catherine (Kate Cobb), who joins a prestigious financial institution determined to make an impact on corporate America; Ryder (Matthew Florida), who lands an impressive job in social media and can’t wait to use the powerful medium for a greater good; and Ethan (Shawn-Caulin Young) seemingly the odd man out, who struggles to find his God-given-purpose and feels sidelined by God. When tragedy strikes the group, each struggles to come to grips with how this can happen to someone who is so obviously following the will of God...and to make sense of their own lives.

 

 

 

This Is Our Time, directed by Lisa Arnold, is one of the latest ensemble pieces that Pure Flix does so well. I really did enjoy this film. It was one of those that not only were there characters that you could care about, and want to know better, but the movie also gave you a perspective that may not have occurred to you as you deal with issues in your own life. I think the following statement by the writer/director sums it up well: “What they all come to learn is that it never really was their time,” Arnold said. “It always was, always is, God’s time.” One of the major things I walked away with is that it doesn't matter as much with what you do with your life, as it does who you are in life---are you being the person God called you to be no matter where He has you now?

Another factor of the film that I liked was that this fictional story had some truth in the ministry the characters were involved in. Embrace A Village is an actual ministry in India that cares for leprosy victims and their families. Parts of the movie were filmed there using the real people who live and work with the mission. There is more about it in the bonus material on the dvd.

Random other things I like about the film is that there is closed captioning, a commentary track...and 4 actors familiar to most of us: Erik Estrada, Bruce Marchiano, Eric Roberts, and Dawn Wells! They each bring an added dimension to a film you will want to share with others.

Speaking of sharing...another giveaway!! Leave a comment on the blog (or make sure you get my attention on FB if you encounter a problem.) A winner will be selected on Monday, April 22, 2013 at 9am CDT.


"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

The List

A group of wealthy Confederate landowners meet on a stormy night to form a secret blood covenant to protect their families' fortunes. One man refuses to sign, uttering a dark prophecy against the dangers of greed and black magic. Ignoring the warning, the men pool their gold in a desperate attempt to smuggle their treasures to Europe.
140 years later, Renny Jacobson, is stunned to discover that his father has left his substantial estate to charity, leaving his son with nothing but a reference to an obscure entity called "the Covenant List of South Carolina, Ltd."
Mystified, Renny sets out on a quest to learn the truth about "The List" Along the way, he meets the lovely Jo Johnston, another descendent of a family bound to the secret society. Renny soon discovers that they are both inheritors of an ancient and sinister secret - as well as a vast fortune and that tragedy follows those who bind themselves to The List. Having signed the covenant with his own blood, he is unprepared to fight the evil forces that now seek to devour everything - and anyone - Renny holds dear. As his world crumbles, he is joined in the spiritual battle by some unlikely and courageous heroes.
In an unexpected and thrilling climax, Renny finds that he must fulfill the prophecy spoken in 1863 and destroy the power of The List - or risk losing the true treasure that has changed his life. (modified from the website)

This film, directed by Gary Wheeler, is another adaptation of a Robert Whitlow novel. This is a fairly good legal suspense film with supernatural overtones. I liked the book a bit better, but he was able to go more indepth with some of the story. However, the cautionary tale of greed and making 'a deal with the devil' is one that brings to life the Scripture: "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." - Matthew 6:24

The members of this "Good Ol' Boy" club seem to be a congenial group of Southern gentleman as they graciously un-invite Jo (a woman!) to be a part of the group...and rid themselves of the pesky Yankee who has infiltrated. Malcolm McDowell, as always, gives an outstanding performance as the charming yet villainous leader of "The List", Desmond Larochette. Renny is a nice guy, but has to decide is his desire for money is going to corrupt him or if his love for money will give way to love of Jo...and ultimately his soul.

 

Bottom line is that it's not the best film I've seen, but I enjoyed it and think it is worth seeing.

The 5th Quarter

The death of a promising young athlete just days before his 16th birthday inspires his older brother to lead his college football team to new heights in The 5th Quarter, the moving saga of the Abbate family of Marietta, Georgia. Aidan Quinn, Andie MacDowell, and Ryan Merriman star in this true story from writer/director Rick Bieber.

When 15-year-old Luke Abbate (Stefan Guy) is killed in a tragic car accident, the loss leaves his close-knit family reeling with grief. Fueled by faith and their deep familial bond, the Abbates try to rebuild their lives without Luke, fulfilling his wish to help others by donating his organs to save the lives of five other people. But despite the support of loving friends and family, his death leaves a void in their lives that threatens to tear the family apart. Struggling with the devastating loss, Luke’s older brother Jon (Ryan Merriman), a gifted football player at Wake Forest University, decides to honor his brother’s memory and love for the game by dedicating the 2006 season to him.

I really wanted to like this film. I usually love football films and this is based on true events. I feel horrid for saying I dislike a film about a grieving family because I definitely do not want to diminish their grief and life. So, keep in mind that this is no reflection on the family...and more on my admiration for them later. However, the film had some definite over-acting and scenes that didn't quite make sense to me. I understand that each family member had good days and bad days, so that didn't bother me...much. It just had a disjointed feel to it, and odd moments that I guess were supposed to be inspirational. The film started out good, and even if they express their faith differently than I do, I never did understand what part their faith had with the healing process.


What I like about the film is the awareness it brings to both reckless driving with teens and organ donation. There are some very graphic scenes in the film about the accident. This is certainly not for younger children, but I think 14+ should see exactly what can happen when they drive carelessly or are in the car with someone who does. One of the most emotional scenes for me was "Luke" telling the driver to let him out or to stop the car. I also keep thinking of that driver and how he has to live with his mistake for the rest of his life. So, I would recommend this film to be shown to teens. The Abbate family formed the Luke Abbate 5th Quarter Foundation to make the seriousness of this issue available to young drivers. The other reason for the foundation is to talk about organ donation. Through Luke's death, 5 other people were able to receive his organs. I am a strong believer in this gift of life to others, and have always let my family know that I want to to let others use any part of me they can after my death.

So, not a really good film, but a couple of messages that make it worth your time to watch.

Apostle Peter & The Last Supper

Apostle Peter And The Last Supper is a family friendly biblical story of  that tells the story of Jesus through the eyes of His disciple, Peter. The film begins in Rome. AD 67 at the Mamertine Prison when the Romans take custody of a famous criminal. He is Simon Peter of Galilee---apostle, disciple, and the personal friend of Jesus (Bruce Marchiano), also called The Christ. Knowing that he will soon be put to death, the elderly Peter (Robert Loggia) spends his remaining time telling the story of his life from his first encounter with Jesus when he was a simple fisherman to becoming known as one of the boldest figures in all of Christianity. His focus is on the night Jesus is arrested, the reaction of all of the disciples, and the resurrection of our Lord. His words make an unforgettable impression on his jailers (Laurence Fuller, David Kallaway) as they slowly turn from disbelief to faith.

This is actually a fairly good film. I rarely find one that simply follows the Bible and tells the story as it is written, and this one is another that takes a few liberties with the story...but not enough to have me screaming at the television. (There's a reason I prefer to watch films alone. LOL! I'm not always a passive viewer.) What I liked was the scenes, especially during the passover meal, as several of the disciples are questioning---in their own minds---if he will be the one to betray Jesus through a character flaw. So, while there are things that irk me a bit (the extremely clean foot that gets washed, for example), it also made the real story come more alive as I watched the interaction between these men and Jesus. Of course, Bruce Marchiano's portrayal of Jesus is outstanding, as always.

The Trial

The Trial , based on the Robert Whitlow book, is a 2010 film directed and produced by Gary Wheeler. Attorney Kent "Mac" McClain (Matthew Modine) is considering suicide after the deaths of his wife and sons. However, the local judge (Rance Howard) insists Mac provide counsel for a young man (Randy Wayne) who is accused of murder. Mac rehires his assistant Mindy (Nikki Deloach) and his investigator Ray (Robert Forster) and gets assistance from psychologist Dr. Anna Wilkes (Clare Carey). With the prosecuting attorney, Joe Whetstone (Bob Gunton) pushing for the death penalty, will Mac be able to save the young man's life...and begin to live again himself?

 This courtroom drama is not the most compelling I have ever watched, but I did enjoy it. It has been a while since I have read the book, so I couldn't remember the details well enough to compare the two. I thought it was well written, and the actors were believable in their roles. A highlight, though, was the comic relief of Rodney MacFarland (Danny Vinson). Altogether, though, I really liked the film.

One Hit From Home

One Hit From Home is a faith-based sports-themed film that apparently was written, directed, and stars the same group of people. Synopsis: After suffering a career ending knee injury, pro-baseball superstar Jimmy Easton returns to a place he has not been in a very long time…home. Here, Jimmy confronts dark memories from a tragic past as he tries to make peace with a life he once left behind. Things take an unexpected turn when he is forced back into the world of baseball as the coach of an underachieving college team. Coach Jimmy’s rocky relationship with Brandon Elliot, the team’s only star, forces both of them to deal with their similarly troubled pasts. (IMDb)

Frankly, I stayed so distracted by poor acting, coloring, editing, script that I couldn't focus on the story. For the first 30 minutes, Jimmy stayed in a bad mood. For the next 30, Brandon was in a bad mood. The final 30 minutes were a jumbled mess of changing circumstances, coincidences and, I assume, a happily ever after ending for everyone. I was majorly disappointed, and for the record, I stayed in a bad mood through the majority of the film. I would not recommend this film to anyone.

The Amazing Grace

 The Amazing Grace is a 2006 Nigerian-British historical film based on the song written by John Newton. Nick Moran, who plays the lead role of John Newton, is one of the writers. Jeta Amata directed, produced, and was a writer. This is the story of British slave trader John Newton's voyage to West Africa and the events that inspired him to write the world's most popular hymn, Amazing Grace. Also stars Scott Cleverdon, Mbong Amata, Fred Amata and Joke Silva. It was filmed in Nigeria.

 If you watch more than just the trailer, you have wasted your time...in my opinion. I can allow a little bit of leeway and fiction in historical dramas...but this is ridiculous! I checked out a few reviews who mentioned that this was the story from the slaves POV and that caught my attention; I love to see things from another angle. But this film consistently portrayed the song "Amazing Grace" being inspired from a song the Africans were singing and that is a lie. The words may have been inspired by John Newton's time spent in slave trade, but I found no evidence from any resource I checked that the melody originated in Africa. The cinematography and acting weren't the worse I've seen, but not good enough for me to suggest you simply enjoy the film as a highly fictionalized bio. This is a film I hope to forget.

Amazing Grace

In 1797, William Wilberforce, the great crusader for the British abolition of slavery, is taking a vacation for his health even while he is sicker at heart for his frustrated cause. However, meeting the charming Barbara Spooner, Wilberforce finds a soulmate to share the story of his struggle. With few allies such as his mentor, John Newton, a slave ship captain turned repentant priest who penned the great hymn, "Amazing Grace," Prime Minister William Pitt, and Olaudah Equiano, the erudite former slave turned author, Wilberforce fruitlessly fights both public indifference and moneyed opposition determined to keep their exploitation safe. Nevertheless, Wilberforce finds the inspiration in newfound love to rejuvenate the fight with new ideas that would lead to a great victory for social justice. (IMDb)

Amazing Grace is a 2006 film starring Ioan Gruffudd as William Wilberforce, a wealthy politician and reformer. After a religious conversion, Wilberforce considered becoming part of the clergy, but was encouraged to continue to serve God as a politician. While the film does contain a few historical inaccuracies (for instance, he sings Amazing Grace several years before the tune was added to the lyrics), it is a very well made movie that captures the heart and spirit of Wilberforce and the causes he championed.

Frankly, it is one of my favorite films from this century and one I watch several times a year. The emphasis on his relationship God and his belief in treating all humans (and animals; Wilberforce was also a founding member of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) with kindness and respect are done quite well. I highly recommend this film!

A Man Called Peter

Richard Todd delivers a thoroughly winning performance as Peter Marshall, the Scottish-born minister who became Chaplain of the U.S. Senate. While still a boy, Peter wants only to go to sea. But as a young man he experiences a profound awakening which leaves him with the unwavering conviction that he has been called upon to do the Lord's work. He completes his religious training in the United States, where he presides over several congregations. A compelling speaker who believes religion should be fun, Marshall inspires young people to renew their interest in the church, and his ministries prosper. Eventually, he becomes pastor of the prestigious Church of the Presidents, in Washington D.C. and is asked to serve as spiritual guide for the Senate. Co-starring Jean Peters as Marshall's devoted wife, Catherine, "A Man Called Peter" is the deeply moving tale of "a man and his close friendship with God"- (Amazon)



This 1955 film on the life of Peter Marshall is based on the biography written by his widow, Catherine (most famously known for Christy). I remember seeing this film as a child and have watched it several times as an adult. This is an interesting Bio-pic of a man who was one of the best known pastors in America in the 30s & 40s. What impresses me the most, is not so much the look of the film, but the fact that Dr. Marshall's sermons are just as fresh and inspiring today as they were when he initially preached them. This is a film well worth watching just to hear snippets of what he said to say. This is a film that should not be overlooked.

 


I couldn't find my favorite from the film, but here is a link to several of his quotes.
*just as a side note. I love the irony of the dvd cover featuring Richard Todd (as Peter) wearing a clerical collar. One of the more humorous scenes was his adamant refusal to wear one.

God Of Wonders dvd

God of Wonders is an 85 minute documentary that combines Scriptures, scientific insights, and stunning nature footage to reveal the wonders of our Creator as observed throughout His creation.

Join us on a remarkable journey of discovery as we explore the Creator's handiwork and what His creation reveals about His character. Survey the unimaginable size of the universe and ponder the vast energy present in all matter. Examine the elegant water molecule essential to all life and discover how God combines these molecules to form beautiful and symmetrical snow crystals. Learn about the incredible complexity of DNA and the miraculous workings of the tiny seed. From the design functionality of birds to the incredible transformation of butterflies, these and many other features of creation are highlighted in this visually stunning presentation. (product description)

"Declare His glory...His wonders among all peoples." - Psalm 96:3

This film explores a variety of topics from the expanse of the universe, the tiny hummingbirds, thunderstorms to the intricacies of dna. Interspersed with Scripture and explanations of scientists about the obvious design behind these marvels of the universe, this is an excellent resource for those wanting to learn more about God's design. The scientists kept my attention, but it was the awesome photography that kept me entranced. Of course, I also loved the Scripture used throughout the film. The narration was a tiny bit dry, but not enough to be distracting. I will watch this more than once...especially the stars and the thunderstorms. :) I do recommend this film, especially for homeschoolers.

Run On

Run On features David A. R. White, Tommy Blaze, and Brad Stine in this theatrical comedy. Each give a humorous, yet poignant history of their own prodigal journey. Although told from personal experiences and very different backgrounds, they all have the same theme of trying to escape and run from God.

David A.R. White, shares his story of how he left his Mennonite community in Kansas and came to Hollywood at the age of 19.

Tommy Blaze, a comedy veteran, tells his story of his marriage difficulty and trying to get a divorce that God wouldn’t allow.

 Brad Stine, “God’s Comic”, one of the most well known Christian comics in the country, shares his experience of being called to “ministry” and ending up in the belly of a whale.

The Parable of the Prodigal Son is one of my favorite stories in the Bible and these 3 versions these men share from their lives is told in a manner that made me laugh...and cry. Tears may seem odd since this is a stand-up comedian venue, but laughter and hope are what remains. This is one that you will not want to miss!!

The Little House That Stood

VeggieTales: The Little House That Stood

When the Three Little Pigs roll into Cabbageville looking to build some new houses, they meet one builder with a plan and two without a clue! Larry builds with hay, Mr. Lunt with bricks, but only Bob builds his houses on a firm foundation - following the wise plans from the Master Builder's Handbook! Will the Little Piggies make the right choices when it comes to building their houses - and their lives - on solid ground? Find out in this parable that shows kids when they follow God's blueprints, then can stand strong when the storms come! (back of dvd)

This latest VeggieTales dvd is sure to be a hit with any pre-schooler...or anyone who has been a pre-schooler. The first story is a combination of The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders and The 3 Little Pigs. However, the builders in this tale are Bob, Larry, and Mr. Lunt and they are each building a house for the 3 pigs.

Larry and Mr. Lunt want to take the quick and easy path and ignore Bob's wisdom about building on a firm foundation. When Wolf River causes the dam to crack, which house will still be standing after the flood?

The lesson learned is that to weather the storms that come your way isn't about how strong you are, but how strong is your faith in God?

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The 2nd story, The Good Egg of Gooseville, is a retelling of Humpty Dumpty, featuring Bob as the Mayor. The job of being mayor isn't all that it's cracked up to be. In fact, Mayor Humpty is cracking from the stress of trying to meet the demands of the townspeople. He literally goes "up the wall" to get away from it all, but his view from the top gives him a new perspective of what is happening in his town. Everyone has become so absorbed in their own needs that they aren't seeing when their neighbor needs help. Will the people learn to love their neighbors and help those in need? This is a great take on helping others.

Website: http://veggietales.com/littlehouse/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veggietales
 Twitter: https://twitter.com/veggietales 
Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7K65sINFgro&list=UUhddokv0fxIN3BS-KZpxFfA&index=2

GIVEAWAY: I am able to offer 1 copy of this dvd to one of the readers of this blog. Leave a comment, preferably on the blog. Contest ends March 10, 2013 at 6pm CDT.

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Ken Davis Fully Alive dvd

The Glory of God is Man Fully Alive

You were born to live Fully Alive!
Yet you may fee like many people who lead lives of quiet desperation. Somewhere along the way the passion that once burned in their souls was smothered. It's time to rekindle the flame. 
With his trademark humor and powerful stories, Ken will share his own journey from lethargic resignation to a new life of adventure, spirtual renewal and health. 
You will see the snapshot that started it all, share in the three hours of terror that changed Ken forever and meet a living fossil on a bicycle. You'll laugh and be inspired to live in the power of Christ's resurrection. 
The path to that life is right here, just waiting for you to take the first step. Join Ken and start living Fully Alive today! (description from ChristianCinema.com)

Last year I read the Fully Alive book, and it really touched me. When I think back on the impetus it gave me to start moving, and live my life more fully and alive...I need to read it again. The film doesn't have quite the same impact for me, but I really did love it. My favorite form of humor is story-telling, and Ken has mastered the art of telling a tale that will have anybody laughing. Yet, there is also a point and message to some of these tales that are moving. Check out Ken's story of how he went from barely living to fully alive at KenDavis.com.

See the first 5 minutes below:

Liike Ken on FB

Follow Ken on Twitter

Visit Ken"s website

Fully Alive  is a Jonathan and Andrew Erwin film. Ken Davis is the executive producer, and produced by Gary Wheeler and Brad Mix.

Flowers For Fannie

Fannie Fairchild married her high school sweetheart, George, but was widowed just months after becoming a wife. Sixty years later, she realizes that when she dies, there will be no one to put flowers on her grave. She has not kept in contact with relatives, and never took the time to make friends during her career in education. In fact, she has become a lonely, embittered woman who rejects friendly overtures from others.  Her search for a perpetual flower plan includes contacting relatives who either think she wants something from them, or who hope to get something from her.

A young woman named Louise, who is nothing like Fannie, then enters her life. Using Luke 6:31 ("Do to others as you would have them do to you.") as her guideline, Louise decides to use The Golden Rule to reach out to Fannie. This lonely young woman demonstrates a love for Fannie that slowly chips away at the barriers she has put around herself.

 

Tonight there was a special "sneak peek" of  Flowers For Fannie. My interest originally is because someone I used to go to church with, Brandon Oliver, had a small role in it. I thought I would watch at least until I saw Brandon's performance, and then get on with other things. I must admit, though, the story did capture my interest and I grew to care about Fannie, Louise, and the other characters. Some of the acting was not very good, but I was able to overlook much as the story progressed.



The writer/director, Sharon Wilharm, brought together characters that formed a slice of Southern small town life I am familiar with and remember fondly. Keeping graves maintained and fresh flowers on them is a tradition that is not as important as it once was, but it was certainly part of my childhood. This is a charming story that reminds us to respect and cherish our past, but more importantly...love those who are still with us. Just as a flower will wilt and die if it is not nurtured, people need the same love and attention to survive and thrive.

 Read CFDb interview with Sharon and her husband [producer/editor] Fred Wilharm for more info and background.

"Like" Flowers For Fannie on FB.


Flowers For Fannie website.

Abel's Field

Left motherless by tragedy and abandoned by his father, high school senior Seth McArdle (Samuel Davis) has been put under enormous pressure to support his little sisters. At school, he endures the daily bullying of the football team. When he fights back, he's singled out for punishment, assigned to an after-school work detail under the supervision of a reserved groundskeeper, Abel (Kevin Sorbo). Much to his surprise, Seth discovers that Abel may be the only one who truly understands his struggles. As dark times lure Seth towards desperate measures, the reluctant Abel may be the one person who can point him back towards the light. (back cover)

Watch the trailer below:

I liked this film, but I did not love  Abel's Field  . One one hand it was a moving story of a young man who was willing to do whatever it takes to take care of his younger sisters. He was not afraid to work hard, and did his best to provide a safe environment for them and make them feel loved. One scene (it's in the trailer, but I hate to give away too much) has a football player committing a criminal offense...in my state anyway.  [Goodness knows we are crazy about football too, but the boy needed to be held accountable by the witnesses.] Plus, it bothers me that no one seems overly concerned about how these children are surviving. There is an inconsistency that distracted me. I can go along with some of it, but not the entire thing.

The relationship between Seth and Abel was more convincing. Both were struggling with unimaginable issues for most of us, but each provided something the other needed. Abel had withdrawn into himself and did not want to let anyone in. Many of the touches of humor sprinkled through out the film played on this aspect of his character, and I thought Sorbo showed great reactions to these situations. Seth was overwhelmed by responsibility, mistreated and/or abandoned by those who should have been helping him; He also believed that God didn't care about him. Both of these men learn that family matters, we need others, and that God can be trusted to be there even when we are having to step out on faith.

FlyBy Promotions has a copy of this dvd to send out to one of my readers. To be entered into the random drawing, leave a comment on the blog. A winner will be selected at 6pm (CST) on Thursday, January 31, 2013.

Website: http://www.abelsfield.com

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/AbelsField

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

ShapelyGirl Fitness WrapUp and Giveaway

After a month of reviewing the ShapelyGirl Walking Fit and Fabulous dvd, it's time for my final review. This workout is meant for beginners and for those at all fitness levels. I am the first to admit that I am no where near fit, so I can definitely say whether or not it is for beginners. I will only say that I need to become half the woman I am in size, and I also have some difficulties due to permanent damage to my foot (car wreck) and arthritis that sometimes makes sure I am aware it's around. So, this was a huge challenge. So, have the pounds melted away and I am suddenly more fit than I have ever been? Of course not! This is reality, and it took me more than a month to get in this shape. However, I do recommend this workout to any who want to get started.

When I saw this photo on the left, it reminded me a bit of the past month. I must admit that my journey has not been a progression up the steps, but up and down them. There have been a few of the "I won't do it!" days mixed in with the want to and try to days, but the satisfaction of  "Yes! I did it!" days are incredible! So, while I have had to cut back a bit this week due to a temporary health issue, I think I can safely say I have one foot on "I can do it" and one on "I will do it". This is a workout I will continue to use.

I have followed the blogs of the other women and everyone seems satisfied with the dvds they chose. Like me, many have had ups and downs, but Life Happens. Debra Mazda of ShapelyGirl Fitness knows what it feels like to be overweight, out of shape, and miserable. Each of her dvds are encouraging and stress the point that you need to get move and get healthy. Not everyone is going to be a size 2...or even wants to be a size 2. The important thing is that you eat right and exercise (hmmm...Mom was right!?!); the goal is good health.

GIVEAWAY: Debra is also generously allowing each of us to have a giveaway, if we choose. Of course, mine will be for the workout I did since it is the only one I can really tell you about. Don't panic if you think you are too out of shape for a workout video! The first week, all I could do was walk and make a few clumsy attempts at any other movement. There are also other premixes on here that you can use for variety or time limitations. The important thing is....move! You may not even need to lose weight, but this will help keep those muscles toned. Enter this easy contest and drawing will be held November 10, 2012 at 11pm.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The important thing is to never give up. If you have a set back, that does not mean it is over--it means you start again. You are a beloved child of God, and remember the words in Isaiah 41:10 ~ "Fear not, for I am with you;  be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you,  I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a free copy of this product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. 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.” I am part of the CWA Review Crew.  

Check out Debra's ShapelyGirl Fitness website: http://www.debramazda.com/

ShapelyGirls Fitness DVD: Week 2

OCT 15th PROGRESS, STRUGGLES, and BREAKTHROUGHS POST:

 SUCCESS!! On Monday I got through the entire  Debra Mazda ShapelyGirl dvd I am reviewing without stopping!! I may not have done every move the ladies on the video were doing...but I kept moving and doing my best. I proved to myself that I can do it.

Tuesdays are busy for me because I volunteer at a local ministry all morning, and it frequently keeps me on my feet.  However, I did do the 32 minute bonus video that afternoon.

Another terrific day on Wednesday! I was eating right and did the entire work-out...albeit I am still having to do some modifications. At least I kept marching when I didn't think I could do the rest.

By noon on Thursday, I wasn't sure, but suspected an alien had taken over. Instead of thinking how much I deserved a day off...esp with a dreaded trip to the grocery store looming...I was getting annoyed with people who interrupted me because I was actually looking forward to exercising!!  I got about 40 minutes in...and felt refreshed!!

...Then came Friday! 
Between having to take allergy meds during the night and waking up (barely) to a heavy rain, I got up long enough to eat, take regular medication...and crawled back into bed until noon. I basically accomplished nothing except sleeping and eating junk I shouldn't.

Saturday was... better. I ate a bit healthier, but I managed to put off the dvd until late....and I only did 20 minutes. I consoled myself with the thought that I had at least done something...before crawling into bed with a book at 9:30. I decided in the infamous words of Scarlett O'Hara,  "Tomorrow is another day!"

Today wasn't a drastic improvement, but it was an improvement. I did 20 minutes of Walking Fit And Fabulous Workout and was starting to feel fatigued, but for the psychological gratification and motivation I needed, I switched over to the 12 minute work-out.

I know that sounds odd, but I needed the sense of accomplishment! LOL! It beat the temptation to swoon into a maudlin fit of depression in the nearest chair!! The important thing is that I am moving forward. I'm not going to beat myself up if I have a bad day...but I will make sure I head into the right direction the next day. For me, this is more about changing a lifetime of unhealthy habits and improving my health. Losing weight is a must, but I have very realistic goals in mind. I'm too young to stay in my current shape, but too old to care about the opinions of pop culture. :) 

                                                                                                                 Disclaimer: I was given a copy of Walking Fit and Fabulous by ShapelyGirl Fitness. I was not required to write a positive review.

ShapelyGirl Fitness: Week 1

OCT 8th PROGRESS, STRUGGLES, and BREAKTHROUGHS POST:

 Last Monday morning, I woke up with plans to start this week right and exercise my spirit, body, and mind: a new week, a new beginning. I turned on my computer to go to my daily devotion email, and saw that I had several FB messages from family members. The news that my aunt who has always been a 2nd mom to me was in a coma due to a ruptured brain aneurysm pushed all thoughts of anything else from my mind. Between numerous phone calls, setting up a message center for family to communicate on Facebook (and doing most of the updates), a couple of trips to the hospital, Aunt Sula passing away on Thursday, and the funeral...and a week that already was filled to the brim with other concerns...this has been challenging!

Needless to say, much of last week is a blur. However, I did at least part of the workout dvd 4 times last week. I am so horribly out of condition that I expected to struggle, but the emotional toil hit me even harder than expected. Some days I only did 15-20 minutes or used one of the shorter workouts. Right now I cannot do all on the tapes, but I keep trying. There were also a couple of those days when I would sit for a couple of minutes, and then get started back. But, I felt encouraged to keep going by Debra Mazda and the other ladies. In the past, I would have simply tossed this aside...and grabbed something to eat while bemoaning my inability to do this. Not only did I keep "stress eating" under the control much better, but I was able to bypass the temptation a few times and did part of the workout instead. I even lost 2.5 lbs this week.

 Sat. night I heard a message on Discipline by Ed Young Jr. A lot of what he said struck a chord, including, "you determine in advance that you are going to do it. No matter what. That works in everything. Your walk with the Lord, health, etc..." It is vital to make a plan...and stick with it! At the church I attend, the message was on JOY but this verse leaped off the page to me: "Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things." ~ Philippians 3:19 (emphasis mine) How often have I been guilty of letting my thoughts slide to wondering what I will have for lunch...while listening to the sermon?  OUCH! I need discipline!!

However, I also thrive on humor. A friend who is encouraging and praying for me through this knew I was in desperate need of a laugh last night (and that I often have a cup of coffee in my hand!), and sent me this cartoon. So, it has been a week of sorrow, pain, and loss, but also a week of wisdom from the Word and pastors, encouragement from family and friends, and a new determination to press forward. I have the peace of knowing that my aunt loved and served Jesus Christ and that I will see her and other family members again when I go Home. Tears and laughter (sometimes at the same time) have been a major part of week one...but I have survived and will continue moving...

I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.  #cwareviewcrew #ShapelyGirl Fitness