Disclosure: I am an NCircle Entertainment Ambassador and received these free DVDs. Opinions shared are mine.

My kids enjoy candy as much as the next sweet tooth, but they really love new movies. We got a sweet bundle of Halloween DVDs from NCircle Entertainment, and I can’t wait to share them with one lucky reader! [Read more…]

Disclosure: The publisher sent me a free copy of this book. Opinions shared are mine.

You know that moment when you take a sip of your ice-cold Coke, then realize you just took a swig of sweet tea instead? Surprise!  After you get over the initial shock, you might just like the sweet tea better than the Coke.  Well, when I applied for The Cresswell Plot tour, I totally thought it was for a different book, a fantasy title that I’d seen on a book blog.  So imagine my surprise when I started reading about The Cresswell Plot and the, um….. very unusual family traditions described in this book…..wowza.  Mind blown!  It was even better than the book I was expecting, possibly because it was such a unique storyline. The best part is that THE CRESSWELL PLOT IS SHOCKING, COMPELLING, AND AMAZING. [Read more…]

We love finding the perfect pumpkins for our front porch, but I’m not so skilled at pumpkin carving. The kids are used to drawing on our pumpkins, or even adding stickers to them. I’ve been known to glue candy to our pumpkins, too….but again, we’re not known for having the most creatively carved gourds on the street. When Fox Chapel Publishing reached out and asked if I would review Easy Pumpkin Carving, it seemed like the perfect chance to learn something new!  Disclosure: I received the book free; post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may earn an Amazon commission. Opinions shared are mine.
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Disclosure: Moore’s sent me an assortment of their delicious marinades. Opinions shared are mine.

During the school week, it’s a race to get from door to door. The front door of our house, the car door, the school door, and back through the paces again for the evening. My family prefers home-cooked meals most of the time, but it’s so tough to get it all on the table before it’s dark outside!  I don’t always have the wherewithal to get ingredients prepped before I leave for work. Can you relate to this dilemma?  You need to check out Moore’s Marinades. Not only does Moore’s offer a complete flavor smackdown, but they recommend marinating for 30 minutes or less.  Sounds like a plan to me!  [Read more…]

Last weekend we stayed at Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park campground in Limestone, Tennessee.  It’s located near Greeneville, TN.  There is a beautiful river just inside the campground where you can wander on a trail, do some fishing, or just enjoy the serenity from a bench. On the day of our arrival, we had a funny sight in store!  My kids loved watching the cows play in the water. [Read more…]

My husband’s dear friend Dr. Josh Wandell was diagnosed with ALS about 4 years ago. He was in his 30’s and at a high point in his career.  He is still fighting strong, and our small community supports him in his battle.  Throughout the town, you’ll see these signs posted all over….in front of businesses and homes alike.  I’m trying to support the fight against ALS with this post.  Click here to find out how YOU can help. [Read more…]

Disclosure: Parragon Books sent me this book to review. Post contains affiliate links; if you make a purchase, I will earn a commission. Opinions shared are mine.

It’s time to start thinking about the colder days of fall and winter. Having a creative outlet is important!  This slim paperback from Discovery is just the ticket for kids.  So Awesome contains puzzles, facts, and photos that are short enough to be engaging yet interesting enough to keep their attention. It’s marketed for ages 6-9; however, I think it’s also perfect for middle school kids, especially those who have trouble with reading. [Read more…]

Disclosure: I was compensated for this post. Opinions shared are mine.

My children don’t usually realize how blessed they are.  Sometimes I wonder if I’ve allowed them to grow up too soft, ill prepared for hardships they might face in the world.  We’re not wealthy or living in the lap of luxury, but we definitely have a comfortable, content life. My husband and I have tried to demonstrate a life of service and faith, but sometimes I wonder….is it enough? Can we make a difference, not just in the lives of our own children, but for the whole of God’s kingdom?  In the movie Same Kind of Different As Me (releases Oct. 20),  an unforgettable true story of forgiveness, love, and friendship celebrates what happens when faith becomes action.  The tremendous talent for this movie includes names like Greg Kinnear, Renée Zellweger, Djimon Hounsou, and Jon Voight. [Read more…]

Disclosure: I received this book free for review.  This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.  Opinions shared are mine.

During my college years, long devotional workbooks filled with reflection questions and application challenges appealed to me.  It was a time of deep faith and I look back on those days with a longing to get back in that place.  In this season of my life, I prefer short devotionals that give me a target on which to focus for the day.  It feels like an accomplishment when I can start with a moment of prayer or a bit of worship-mindedness.  Even though Jesus Always is meant for a young audience, it’s actually perfect for my morning!

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Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Autumn is the perfect time to add new worship music to your rotation.  The cooler weather can sometimes feel dreary after the sunshine of summer.  Likewise, the seasons of the soul can become colder and less fruitful.  Let the new Jeremy Camp “The Answer” album be the encouragement you need to feel stronger for fall. [Read more…]