Galaxy Buck: Mission to Sector 9

Phil Vischer (creator of Veggie Tales) has a new movie with the wacky characters from his latest set of videos, What's in the Bible?  In this movie, Buck Denver sets out to fulfill his dream of doing something big for God.  He heads into space with his friends, but along the way he meets a new friend who teaches him what God wants from us--just to be with Him and get to know Him.

While I thought that the theme of the movie was a good one, I was hoping there would be more Biblical references made, and not just a "theme" presented to the kids.  I wished there were specific verses to back up what they were teaching.  I felt that this same thing happened with Phil Vischer's Veggie Tales--they started out being Bible stories, and after a while, the shows were just good messages to learn from.  I left a little disappointed after having loved the What's in the Bible? series so much.

Check out the trailer for yourself and decide whether this is one for your family's collection!
You can also check out these links for more information about this movie:
Website
Facebook

If you would like to win a DVD of this movie for your family's collection, just leave me a comment on this post below with one of your family's favorite movies (with a Christian message or not).  This giveaway will end on Sunday, October 25th.

"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.

Love Inspired books--review and giveaway!

I recently received a set of 6 inspirational fiction books to read and review.  These "Love Inspired Books" are published by the Harlequin company, so I went into this review very skeptical (because when I hear that company's name, faith-based reading isn't what first comes to mind).  But, stick with me...they were great books that I really enjoyed reading.  I love Christian fiction, and these books were not a disappointment to read.

One thing that I found hard to adjust to at the beginning was the smaller size of the book.  But after a while, I found the small size nice to be able to stick it in my purse, and pull it out to read when I had a few spare minutes (waiting for preschool pick up, while my husband ran into Lowe's on the weekend, etc).

These books, and many more that are similar, are for sale on their website here.  You can also find a $1-off coupon that you can use on your order as well.  If you are interested in the coupon, please let me know since I couldn't figure out how to attach a copy to this post.

You can check them out on Facebook here to see which books are new each month.

And, best of all, if you would like the chance to win a set of 6 inspirational fiction books for your own library, just leave me a comment telling me one of your favorite books (doesn't have to be an adult book...can be a children's book too!).  I will pick a winner at random on Wednesday, May 20th.

"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.”

gMOVIES review and FREE trial and giveaway

I'm excited to share with you a family-friendly place to watch great movies online.  We have watched a couple already, so let me tell you a little of what we thought about it for our family!

The first time we decided to watch a movie, we tried to use Google Chrome as our browser.  Unfortunately, it didn't work well--the sound was great but the picture kept pausing/stopping, so it was hard to watch.  So, we tried to use the KindleFire because we thought we could hook it to the TV and watch it that way.  Unfortunately, that didn't work either.
Then my husband downloaded the app on his Ipad and it worked!  After that we also tried switching browsers to Internet Explorer on my laptop, connected it to the TV, and that also worked!  So, after some trial and error it worked really well!  I'm excited to get the chance to watch more movies...and there are over 300 to choose from!

This service costs $4.99/month (no contracts so you can cancel any time), but here's how you can try it out yourself for free for 2 weeks:

Go to: https://vod.gmovies.com/gmovies/secure/signup?productid=38

Enter code: FREETRIAL100

If you like what you see and would like to win a 6-month FREE subscription code, just leave me a comment here on my blog and I will choose/notify a winner on Saturday, April 25th!!!

"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.”

"Whatever Wanda" book review and giveaway

Sorry, I know it's been a few months again since I posted here on my blog.  But, I'll have a few reviews and giveaways for you in the month of April, so stay tuned!

Today I have a great new children's book to introduce to you called "Whatever Wanda".  This is the third book in Christy Ziglar's "Shine Bright Kids" book series.  Our family also owns the "Can't Wait Willow" book that she wrote a few years ago, and after checking out her website, Benjamin would like to read the "Must-Have Marvin" book as well!  They are very well written about children that have real-life issues (like Wanda's "whatever" attitude in this book).  My favorite part is that at the end of the story the child realizes what needs to change.

Another fun part of this book was finding the pictures of stars on each page.  Benjamin really enjoyed finding them each time we turned a page.  Really, who doesn't like a book that directs our kids' moral compass AND has a fun picture to find on each page?!

Check out this website for more information about Shine Bright Kids.
You can also check them out on their Shine Bright Kids Facebook page.

Now for the fun part for you!  If you would like the chance to win a copy of this book for your own family's collection, just leave me a comment on this post.  I will draw a name and contact that person on Sunday, April 12th.  I can't wait to hear from you!

"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.”

THE SONG: Awaken Love Couple’s Devotional

I have another book that I have been reviewing (with Nick) and am very excited to tell you about!  We have been reading "The Song" 6-week Devotional at night before we go to sleep, and I have to say that this is one that has not only kept me awake, but also challenged each night.  The author, Kyle Idleman, inserts humor and has a great perspective through the Song of Solomon on how we can make our marriages better on a daily basis.  Kyle is also the author of the "not a fan" book if you have heard about or read it. 

For more information about this fabulous devotional, check out these links:

Check out this resource website!

Check them out on Twitter!

Check them out on Facebook!

Now for the best part of all, you can win a copy of this devotional for you and your spouse.  Just leave me a comment on this post.  I would love to hear whether you and your spouse have tried any devotionals in the past, and if there's been one that you're really enjoyed together.  If you don't want to mention specific devotionals, just leave me a post saying that you want to win.  I will close the comments and pick a winner at random on December 8th!

"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 the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

"The Hardest Peace" book review and giveaway

I am so excited to tell you about this new book that has recently been released.  Written by Kara Tippetts, she shares her life-story and testimony of God's goodness in her life through a lot of hard times, including cancer.  Her raw emotions and honesty drew me in and it was hard for me to put this book down! Her story especially drew me in since I have several friends and family who have gone through or are currently going through cancer treatments.  She speaks of God's peace continually carrying her through the valleys, which is what I pray for each of the people I know in hard spots.

If you would like your own copy, just leave me a comment below.  I will pick a winner this Friday, October 31st.

Check her out online:

Kara’s Blog: mundanefaithfulness.com

Follow her on Instagram: http://instagram.com/tippetts

Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mother_to_many

"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 the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

"Wherever the River Runs" book giveaway

I'm so excited to tell you about the last book I just finished reading!  I first experienced this author a year ago through a Bible study that she wrote called "Nehemiah: A Heart that can Break", and really loved it.  So, when I got the chance to read another book she's written, I jumped at the chance.  Kelly Minter's her newest book titled, "Wherever the River Runs" didn't disappoint me either.  She writes about how God changes our life's path and our heart towards something that we had never even considered.  She moved to Nashville intending to pursue a professional signing career.  In the midst of that not going the way she had planned, she was asked to join a missions trip down the Amazon river.  Her honest perspective on how God opened her eyes and her heart to the people who live there was amazing to read about.  You don't want to miss reading this book!

Check out the trailer for the book here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGb4r7lrEno&list=UU4vF_MunQDVGg-P497Bj6nA

Visit Kelly's website here: www.kellyminter.com

If you would like the chance to win your own copy, leave me a comment on this post.  I would love to hear about a time in your life that God's plan was way better than what you had planned for yourself (but that's not necessary to be in the drawing to win).  Winners will be chosen and notified by this Saturday, August 23rd!!!

"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 the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Ragamuffin movie review and giveaway

I was asked to write a review for the DVD, "Ragamuffin" (released on July 8th), which is a movie based on Rich Mullin's life.  Most Christians have heard the most famous song he wrote, "Awesome God" at one point or another, but the I didn't know the rest of his life-story.  As he struggled with success in Nashville and depression in Wichita, Rich desired most of all to live a life of honest and reckless faith throughout a culture of religion and conformity. His legacy lives on through the songs he wrote, and he was honored by being inducted into the Gospel Music Association's Hall of Fame just this past spring.

This movie revolves around the struggles that Rich goes through in his life and how his faith was affected by others and how he in turn showed Jesus to the people he influenced with his life and his music. It is heart-wrenching at points, but also heart-warming to know that God uses us even when we're broken.
https://www.facebook.com/richmullinsfilm

Here's where you can buy a copy for yourself:
http://ragamuffinthemovie.com/buy/
And, while you're at it, buy a copy to give to a friend!


Now for the give-away part!  If you would like the chance to win a free copy of the "Ragamuffin" DVD for yourself, leave me a comment here.  I'd love to hear about the first time you heard the song, "Awesome God", or just tell me you'd like to win the DVD!  Winner will be chosen and notified on July 15th.

"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 the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Hey God, I've Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I Think I'm Gonna Throw Up!

I know it's been a while since I've written a blog post, but I just wanted to share a few of the books and movies that I've reading/watching recently and give you a chance to win a free copy for your family.

The first book is called Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I Think I’m Gonna Throw Up!  

What a great way to take a story that we have already read and change it up a little.  My 6-year old daughter loved it and said, "It was SO funny!"  Nothing like the whale learning to trust God through the whole situation too (even when he wanted to swim the other direction).  :)

If you want more information about this book, or others in this collection, go to their website http://www.bhpublishinggroup.com/books/products.asp?p=9781433679643

One of you will win a copy of Hey God, I’ve Got Some Guy Named Jonah in My Stomach and I Think I’m Gonna Throw Up!  To enter, simply leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you think the whale might say to God or Jonah.

Entries will remain open until Monday, May 5th at 9 p.m. One winner will be randomly chosen and will have 48 hours to respond. 

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for conducting this review and giveaway. All opinions are – as always – honest and my own.

And the winners are...

For the Jeremy Riddle "Furious" CD...

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:1Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Paula Droddy

Cat O. is the winner of the "Cooper and Me" book. Luckily for her, no one else commented on the book post, so she was automatically the big winner!

And, for "The Christmas Lodge" DVD...

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:2Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Jill P.

Thanks to everyone who entered my giveaways this time around! Stay tuned for more Christian media reviews. I've got a book, a CD, and a digital album that will also be coming with giveaways soon!

DVD Giveaway: The Christmas Lodge

Nothing better to get you in the mood for Christmas than a snowy family-friendly movie, right? Grab your blankets and hot chocolate for a lovely heart-warming story.

Thomas Kinkade presents Christmas Lodge: a place where a heart-warming past and loving future meet for one remarkable group of people. During a weekend trip to the mountains, Mary (Erin Karpluk) finds herself at the now- dilapidated lodge where she spent the holidays with her family growing up. She becomes determined to restore the building to its former glory. Inspired by her grandfather and guided by her grandmother in heaven, Mary throws herself into the project, and during the process finds herself drawn to Jack (Michael Shanks), a handsome man who loves the lodge as much as she does. Historically unlucky in love, this chance encounter allows Mary to renew her faith in life and discover her one true love. For an uplifting story about the importance of faith, family and the true holiday spirit, go to the Christmas Lodge.

And, finally for the giveaway! Leave me a comment either on the last movie you watched (and liked) OR your favorite Christmas movie. I will choose a winner at random on Sunday, November 6th!!!

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the 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."

Book Giveaway: Cooper and Me

Here's a cute book that I've been asked to review that was illustrated by 11-year-old Alexa Peters and co-written with her mother, Monique Peters. Cooper and Me tells the story of a young girl who is nervous as her first day of school approaches. She is frightened about leaving home and doesn't want to go without her best friend, her dog Cooper. Fortunately her mother finds the perfect solution to help the little girl overcome her fears – a small replica of her beloved pet she can take to school with her.

Website: www.cooperandme.com

If you are interested in winning a copy of this story for your family's library, just leave me a comment on one of your favorite books from your childhood (or one of your child's favorite stories). I will be choosing a winner this Sunday, November 6th!!!

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the 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."

CD Giveaway: Jeremy Riddle "Furious"

Here's another Christian album that I've been listening to lately. I didn't have a great impression of this album to begin with, but I just don't think I liked the slow song "Fall Afresh" on the first track. The second track "Furious" is much more exciting to listen to!

“These songs are a reflection of being part of something bigger than just me,” Jeremy says. “Through some significant growth in understanding and living out humility from a very independent place, I’ve shifted into a place where I can’t even claim this record is completely inspired by me. There are so many elements of the album that could never have flowed from me had I not been connected to people walking out life with me.”

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vineyard-Music/18257532074

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/vineyardmusic

Website: http://www.vineyardmusic.com/vm/

If you would the chance to win a copy for yourself, just leave me a comment and tell me what you have been listening to lately. I will be choosing a winner on Sunday, November the 6th!!!

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the 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."

Giveaways Galore!!!

Okay, so I'll admit I'm a little late in reviewing some more books, movies, and CDs. Stay tuned for several posts--each will include giveaways!!!

Another giveaway: Beverly Lewis' The Shunning DVD

Update: Jessica Carlin was the winner!!!

Website: http://hallmarkchannel.com/theshunning

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TheShunningMovie

Trailer: http://hallmarkchannel.com/microsites/video.aspx?simscode=OWN_891400000000000&ageid=2607&pn=PN147958&tabIndex=2&pnlist=pn147958|

I actually really enjoyed this movie...it was clean enough for the whole family to watch together. And, it was a good way to bring up the topic of adoption and telling the truth to your children too.

Beverly Lewis' The Shunning

Before she succumbs to cancer, the dying wish of Laura Mayfield-Bennett is to be reunited with the daughter she never knew. Unfortunately, that daughter, Katie Lapp, is a member of the Amish order. Katie is about to be married, but uneasy about the path ahead. Now she discovers the secret her parents have kept from her: she's adopted.

The film is based on the celebrated first novel of the best-selling "The Heritage of Lancaster County" book series from author Beverly Lewis. Stars Danielle Panabaker & Sherry Stringfield.

The Author: Beverly Lewis, born in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch country, is The New York Times bestselling author of more than eighty books. Her stories have been published in eleven languages worldwide. A keen interest in her mother's Plain heritage has inspired Lewis to write many Amish-related novels, beginning with "The Shunning," which has sold more than one million copies. In 2007, Lewis' "The Brethren" was honored with a Christy Award.

Lewis has been interviewed by both national and international media, including Time magazine, the Associated Press, and the BBC. Lewis lives with her husband, David, in Colorado.

Now, here's your chance to get a copy for your family. All you have to do is leave me a comment to tell me the last movie your family watched together. If you would like a second chance to win, like "The Shunning" on Facebook and come back to leave me a second comment. Good luck!!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the 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 255Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

And the winner is...

Congratulations to Melissa...you're the winner of the Ginny Owens CD!!!

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:5Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Giveaway: Ginny Owens' new CD

A three-time Dove Award winner, including the Gospel Music Association’s 2000 New Artist of the Year recipient, and multiple ASCAP Award winner, Ginny Owens has sold nearly one million albums. A top performer on the Christian radio charts with hits like “If You Want Me To,” “Free” and “I Wanna Be Moved,” among others, Owens’ music has impacted mainstream audiences at Lilith Fair, the Sundance Film Festival and the White House. Her music has received widespread film and television placement, including songs on the popular WB series’ “Roswell” and “Felicity.” Owens was featured on national television, including NBC’s “Today” and CNN, for her contribution to help rebuild New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.

Born and raised in Jackson, Miss., Owens was discovering melodies on the piano almost before she could complete a sentence. Songs began to emerge from her fingers as the vision began to leave her eyes and by the age of three. A degenerative eye condition left Owens completely blind. Despite her physical challenge, Owens pursued a music career. Songs provide a window into a world Owens can’t see and an outlet for her to express her thoughts and dreams. Owens’ unique musical style and inspirational lyrics continue to appeal to Christian and mainstream audiences alike.

In 2005 Owens launched The Fingerprint Initiative, a hands-on, non-profit organization designed to “bring hope to the world, one project and one touch at a time.” The organization has partnered with and raised money for groups such as Compassion International, International Justice Mission and Habitat for Humanity.

I enjoyed these new songs, especially track #5 "Joined at the Heart". Now, if you want a copy for yourself, leave me a comment on this post. For a second entry, like her facebook page (link below), come back, and leave me a second comment. I'll end this giveaway at the beginning of next week, so get your entries in before it's too late!

Website: http://ginnyowensmusic.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/GinnyOwensMusic

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/GinnyOwens

iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/before-you-fly-single/id442050145

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the 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."

And the winner is...

So, I just have to say that I am very sorry for forgetting about my giveaway. I PROMISE I will do better the next time to close the comments and pick a number sooner!!! Speaking of more giveaways...I think I'll have a couple more in the next few weeks, so stay tuned!

And the winner is...
True Random Number Generator
Result: 5
Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Congrats, Tanya!!!

Giveaway: I’m All In CD from Robert Pierre

So, a while back I was asked to review this CD, and I've been listening to it ever since it came in the mail. It's catchy and upbeat, youthful, and yet full of worshipful lyrics. Several of the songs make me want to get up and dance with my kiddos.

Really, who could blame me?!

For Robert, I’m All In is more than the name of his third studio album, due July 26 (yes, that's today!). It has become Robert’s life motto as he responds to God’s calling to live fully committed to Him. In addition to writing and recording I’m All In and playing on a summer tour, Robert also leads regular Sunday morning worship at his 800-member Orlando, FL church. And he’s done it all as a high school senior. That's awesome!!!

Creating I’m All In was a powerfully personal experience for Robert, who teamed with veteran songwriter Jason Ingram (Tenth Avenue North, Sanctus Real, Bebo Norman) and legendary producer Matt Bronleewe (Jars of Clay, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman) on the album.

So, now here's how to enter my giveaway:

Leave me a comment saying you'd like to win his CD.

Bonus entry: Go like his Facebook page, come back and leave me a comment on which song was your favorite.

Entries will be open until sometime later this week, and winner will be chosen at random.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the 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.”

I'm back...

Sorry it's been a while since I posted. Between the move and summer, it's just something I've neglected. But, be watching our blog for further posts...I've been asked to review a CD and possibly a few more things in the future. That means that I will probably be hosting a give-away...and you know how much I LOVE free stuff...especially when it's good! :)

And, I'll promise to come back and update what's been going on in our lives over the past few months when I get a chance too.