Monday, November 30, 2015

Song of the Stars by Sally Lloyd-Jones

Song of the Stars by New York Times bestseller, Sally Lloyd-Jones, and illustrated by Alison Jay is a board book about the celebration of all creation as they eagerly await the birth of Christ. The animals, trees, oceans and even the stars are anticipating letting the entire world know that God's promised Son, the Creator of ALL living things has been born! "It's Time! It's Time!"




My Review: Of course I loved the story. As a follower of Christ, I want to share the story of his birth with the little ones I love and I do like the sense of anticipation and excitement that builds as the author and illustrator demonstrate how all of creation rejoiced and celebrated the birth of Jesus.

But I thought the book structure was meant more for tinier hands to hold and the words were more appropriate for the 4-7 year old audience that it is meant to reach. It is a good book, but I guess my expectations in seeing the size had my expectations prepared for  the words to be geared more toward a toddler with a more limited vocabulary. So, it is more of a visual thing for me. I had my 1 year old great grandson in mind since it was a perfect size. But, his attention span would not last through a reading. By the time he is old enough to appreciate the words more, he is more apt to think of smaller board books as "baby books." Don't love it, but I did like it. It should be sturdy enough to hold up until he is old enough to sit still for a reading.


**I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review 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.”

Sally Lloyd-Jones is a leading writer of inspirational books for children. She is the author of three bestselling children’s Bibles, including the Gold Book Award-winning Baby’s First Bible and, most recently, the Moonbeam Award Winner and ALA notable, The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name. She has written many picture books for children, including the critically acclaimed New York Times bestseller How to Be a Baby: By Me, the Big Sister. Sally was born and raised in Africa, was schooled in England, and now lives in New York City. She can be found at www.sallylloyd-jones.com.

I'm Happy For You... by Kay Wills Wyma

Do you find yourself measuring your value against your friend’s house, body, marriage, resume, paycheck, organic garden, or Pinterest-worthy holiday décor, and coming up lacking? Do your college roommate’s Instagram snapshots bear little resemblance to the scene at your house this morning?

Excessive comparison and competition sap our energy and steal our joy. Our friends become our audience and judges, and our kids become part of our brand. Add social media’s constant invitation to post and peruse, and it’s no wonder that we’re left exhausted, discontent, and lonely. Thankfully, there is another way!

With  refreshing candor and humor, Kay Wyma shares her experiences with comparison living and offers readers the simple remedies that helped her and her family reboot their perspective and discover freedom, authenticity, and joy.

My Review:
I'm Happy For You (Sort Of...Not Really): Finding Contentment in a Culture of Comparison by Kay Wills Wyma touches on something we all struggle with to some degree at one time or another: COMPARISON. Since the dawn of mankind, we have looked around and noticed that we did not have something someone else had. No matter how content you may be, there is most likely times you look at someone else and wonder why you don't have what they have, go where they go, or get to do the things they do. And, with the social media being such a major part of our culture, envy can raise its ugly head frequently. I confess I have envied others...and been stunned if someone sometimes says they envy me.

However, Wyma brings this out in a humorous style that makes you laugh at her family anecdotes, but also at yourself and your own moments of envy. There are also a few lessons to be learned along the way. Quite often the "A-HA Moment" comes when it is one of her children working through their own feelings, and sometimes it is when she catches herself worrying about what others may think or if she has completely failed as a parent. Sidebars and inserts from others provides insights from others who struggle.

For those who are looking for a Bible study or great spiritual insight, this book isn't it...and wasn't what I was looking for anyway. However, it was obviously written by a person who lives out her faith and has the same struggles we all have. I am also planning on checking out her blog and look forward to reading more books by her. 


SOCIAL • CORNER






"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.” Deadline to enter is December 4 at 2pm CT.

Thursday, November 19, 2015

No Fear by Tony Perkins

No Fear: Real Stories of a Courageous New Generation Standing For Truth  is a timely book for a world that is increasing becoming gripped in fear with growing violence and unrest all around us. Written by Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council, this book is filled with examples of ordinary people who courageously stood up for what was right and true in the face of opposition. Perkins then correlates the modern person with a familiar Biblical story. We often forget that many of our Biblical heroes were ordinary men and women whom God used.


These stories are familiar to many of us due to media coverage and endless debate on social media, but are told with less hype and slant. There is a tremendous difference in those who boldly are looking for a fight and those who have to test the courage of their convictions when their rights are being assaulted. No Fear is a book written to encourage Christians. It is not a backlash at nonbelievers nor a battle cry to deliberately choose to fight with those in opposition. This is more of a series of short stories of people of conviction and courage that can be read over a period of time. Not my favorite style, but it was well written, and each was a good reminder that trusting in God and being in the center of His will is what His followers are called to do. It is good for personal use or for a discussion group.

Disclaimer:
I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review. However all thoughts and opinions are my own.




Tony Perkins tells the stories of young Christians who took a stand for truth in the face of intense opposition. These unlikely heroes will show you the dramatic influence one person can have in seeking fairness, justice, and compassion in a nation. The book also draws you back to the heroes of the Bible who stood up for God in their own day and culture, modeling the same brand of courage that is needed today.
  - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=247070#sthash.0q13ZJwH.dpuf
Tony Perkins tells the stories of young Christians who took a stand for truth in the face of intense opposition. These unlikely heroes will show you the dramatic influence one person can have in seeking fairness, justice, and compassion in a nation. The book also draws you back to the heroes of the Bible who stood up for God in their own day and culture, modeling the same brand of courage that is needed today.
  - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=247070#sthash.0q13ZJwH.dpuf

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

A NIght of Art & Film! Kinkade Presents "Beyond the Farthest Star"



A Dallas Evening of Art & Film with Patrick Kinkade, Zac Kinkade, Andrew Librizzi, Benjamin Dane and the STARS of Beyond the Farthest Star! Watch the film • See the Thomas Kinkade painting inspired by the BTFS story! Advance Tickets Online Only: https://gathr.us/screening/13368

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9

Buck Denver has a simple dream - to save the galaxy.  Working for the Galactic Mission Board, Buck dreams of carrying God's love to every corner of the Milky Way!  Except he doesn't have a starship.  Or a crew.  Or even a captain's license.  He just needs a chance.  But when that chance comes and Buck finds himself leading a real mission into deep space, things don't go at ALL like he imagined!  If he's doing what God wants him to do, why is everything going wrong?  From VeggieTales® and What's in the Bible? creator Phil Vischer, Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9 is a wild, galactic adventure that teaches kids a powerful lesson about trusting God with everything - even our dreams!


My Review: From Phil Vischer, creator of VeggieTales, Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9 is the latest adventure from Buck Denver and pals from the What's In The Bible series. This time, Buck leaves behind his dreary life answering phone calls at the "Galaxy Mission Board" when his daydreams of doing big things for God have a chance to come true. As he races to help repair a transmitter in Section 9, adults are treated to reminders of Star Wars, Star Trek, Buck Rogers, and even the title pays a homage to one of the worst films ever made (and a personal favorite of mine!)... Plan 9 From Outer Space. However, the heart of the story is a lesson that every child should learn and that grown-ups frequently need reminded of too. Perfect timing for me to watch this right now. God is not as concerned as much with what you are doing for Him, God just wants YOU! Trusting Him with your life, even when things aren't the way you had hoped is a matter of you leaning more into God, learning His Voice, and knowing that you may have to give up your dreams---especially when they can come more about YOU than HIM. In time, God may fulfill your dream or He might have a plan you never expected. But nothing is greater than simply walking with Him.

Thank you to Propeller and FlyBy Promotions for letting me watch an advanced screening of this DVD. This is definitely one you will want to own! And see below how you can win a copy.
GIVEAWAY!! Enter to win a copy of "Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9" by leaving a comment no later than October 27, 2015 at 6pm Central. Winner will be chosen randomly. Read rules below:

"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.”





Sunday, October 18, 2015

Tenacious Faith Tour - Nashville

Tenacious Faith is the name of a new women’s conference. The first stop of the tour is happening in just a few days, and you have a chance to be one of the first to be part of this dynamic ministry. As the name implies, the purpose is to reach out and encourage women to be unwavering in their faith, and not give up while undergoing challenges that will inevitably be faced.


Cornerstone Nashville will host the speakers of the Tenacious Faith conference being held Oct 23-24. Women of all ages are welcome to come experience a weekend of hope, inspiration, and spiritual refreshment. Keynote speaker Kay Arthur, co-founder of Precepts Ministries, is joined by a powerhouse lineup of influential speakers and performers including best-selling author and speaker, Patsy Clairmont; world renowned artist, Nicole C. Mullen; co-founder of Oasis Church of Nashville, Jillian Chambers; and Christian singer, songwriter, and special guest of “The Voice,” Anthony Evans.






Additional speakers include CEO of Co-Parenting International and Mason Jar Productions, Tammy Daughtry; founder and CEO of Home Educating Association (HEDUA), LLC, Rebecca Keliher; founder of Celebrating Women, Linda Trimble; founder and president of Getting Real Ministries, Dawn Pulgine; founder and creator of MomLife Today, Tracey Eyster; author/blogger and Wives of Faith founder, Sara Horn; Dear Magazine publisher Jennifer Sukut; and founder of CUE 52, Jana Jackson.

Speakers will be sharing their personal stories on prayer, emotional health, parenting, self-esteem, organization, enjoying God, authentic friendship, homeschooling, co-parenting after divorce, celebrating singleness, intentional influence and following God’s will. The weekend includes worship, shopping, book signings, movie trailers, a Friday night concert with Nicole C. Mullen and a keepsake collectable program. There are also box lunches you can pre-order for Saturday.


Mason Jar Productions is partnering with 94FM The Fish, Bott Radio, Yes He Is, Feed the Children, Family Magazine, Dear Magazine, BYOU, Liberty University, iShine and Cornerstone Nashville to produce the Tenacious Faith 2015 Women’s Conference. This event offers up to 40 booth exhibitions with national sponsors including The Timothy Plan, Co-Parenting International, NIV LIVE Audio Bible and “War Room,” the movie, all representing Christ-centered products and organizations.


Tickets range from $79 to $149 with group discounts available online. Platinum level seating includes front section seating at Friday/Saturday conference, a fast pass for book signing lines and a private meet and greet with the conference speakers on Saturday during lunch!
To purchase your ticket for this event, go to www.tfaithwomen.com.

Call 629-777-5474 to order tickets by phone


Tenacious Faith Ticket Giveaway: Use code tf2015 for a free ticket awarded to 10 readers of my blog. First come, first served. Register at www.tfaithwomen.com and put in our promo code "tf2015" to receive your free ticket ($79 value).

Friday, October 16, 2015

Bring Beyond the Farthest Star to Cullman - Nov. 10, 2015

BTFS - Cullman - Nov 10



Beyond the Farthest Star is a faith-based independent film starring Renée O’Connor, Todd Terry and Barry Corbin, along with Billy McNamara, Andrew Prine, Cherami Leigh and Lou Beatty, Jr. The film’s storyline features a minister, once revered as “the next Billy Graham,” but now reduced to pastoring a small church in a sleepy Texas town and dealing with a rebellious daughter and a lukewarm marriage. When the town Nativity is burned by an outraged Senator, the media descends, and secrets are brought to the surface as Adam faces circumstances that force him to choose between regaining church super-stardom or restoring his fractured family. The movie touches on many of today's issues including:
  • Separation of Church vs State
  • Teen Self Abuse / Cutting
  • Abortion / Sanctity of Life
  • Priorities of Life - Leaving a Legacy
  • The Importance of Marriage Vows





"Star" is a captivating “beauty from ashes” story of redemption that inspired
a painting by famed artist, Thomas Kinkade, after he viewed a rough copy of the movie a few months prior to his death. His nephew, Zachary Thomas Kinkade, created a painting to complete the desire of his uncle to pay homage to the film. Crystal Lewis also reimagined her hit song, "Beauty for Ashes" and a novel based on the screenplay was written by best-selling authors, Bodie and Brock Thoene. The film was selected to be shown at the recent Values Voter Summit, and even the MPAA (the board that gives movies their ratings) representative called BTFS "the best faith-based film I have seen."

WHY do you have to Reserve Your Tickets before October 30th. These screenings are special events and the theaters expect to have a minimum number of people there to fill the seats. Once a screening is guaranteed, tickets will be available (Online Only) until time for the show to start. We could even be upgraded to a larger room. However, if you wait until the last minute---that may no longer be an option.

This film provides a perfect opportunity to have a discussion on a number of issues that impact our lives daily. It is not overly "preachy" but does point to the Hope we find in Christ. It is great for Youth groups, small groups, recovery groups and people who are struggling to find their way to a fulfilling life.

You can get your tickets Online Only at
http://gathr.us/screening/13282
Screening is Nov. 10th, but ONLY if we reach minimum by Oct. 30th. You can email me at info@pathlightentertainment.com for more info on materials, including hi-res trailers, or to answer your questions.