Ron Marasco's "The Dog Who Was There" will soften the Hardest Heart

                     Author Ron Marasco's "The Dog Who Was There" will soften the hardest heart.  Those who know the real unconditional love of a pet will agree this was the perfect choice for a lead character in this novel.  Barley comes from painful beginnings having no home and knowing real hunger.  Barley longs to meet the special teacher from Galilee.  Along his journey he befriends a petty criminal.  They face adversary and difficulty together but there is much hope awaiting him.  This fictional story shares the utmost joy when Barley bears witness to Jesus Christ.  This book is heart wrenching and heart warming at the same time.  I was given the wonderful opportunity to review in exchange for my thoughts.  Many will fall in love with Barley and it's a story that should be shared among generations.  I was given the ultimate opportunity to review this novel for BookLook

bloggers in exchange for my thoughts.  Very inspirational.

Sally Clarkson's Account Is a God Send

Sally Clarksons, "Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him" proves that being different is not an awful thing.  Her true account of her son who suffers from learning disabilities along with anxiety and OCD will inspire other parents who are going through the same experiences.  She pushes out the negative comments presented to her about her son's condition and she rely's on her faith in God to accentuate the positive.  Mom and son's love grows as they take this journey together.  I was given the wonderful opportunity to review this book for the Tyndale Network.  As a young adult I was diagnosed with chronic concurrent depression and panic disorder.  At the time my therapist had asked me if anyone in my family had noticed any difference in me while I was growing up.  That was over forty years ago and I honestly told my psychologist that my parents just thought that I was emotional and sensitive.  After reading Sally Clarkson's biography, I felt that so many more individuals could be helped by her sharing her story and inwardly I was jealous that this type of material was not available as I was growing up.  This is a superb read.  I highly recommend.

The Beyond Suffering Bible Is An Answered Prayer

Long overdue THE BEYOND SUFFERING BIBLE answers all those questions which make individuals take a backseat to serving God such as:  If God is Loving, why does He allow suffering. Why doesn't He just stop all the hurting and pain.  This unique Bible answers these harrowing questions to confirm to readers that He has a plan for all things. 

Tyndale could not have chosen a more adequate spokesperson for their newest creation than Joni Earickson Tada who became a permanent quadriplegic after a diving incident at a very young age. I greatly recommend reading her true story of triumph and faith which inspired me as a teenager Joni's autobiography .  Her disability has drawn her closer to her Savior and she has become an asset to the Christian community as helping all those with disabilities.  She has worked to add wonderful resources to these scriptures such as ten guided Bible reading plans '"that help you walk through Scripture on key topics related to suffering and disability."'  On every single page there are connection points or study brief's which focus on Biblical suffering.  There are so many enduring features included in this Bible such as book introductions; Profiles; and devotionals.  All to assist and deepen your understanding of how Christians cope with suffering.

I love this Bible and have not been able to put it down since I received my copy from Tyndale in exchange for my thoughts.  What a blessing which has been designed to give as a gift.  I can't say enough good about this tool which will encourage and uplift your spirits. A+

Spiritual Ammunition For Christains In Our Times

                 O.S. Hawkins offer's outstanding advice to sincere Christians on how not to compromise one's faith in a world devoid of moral compass.  The Daniel Code provides the tools we sorely need to withstand losing our spiritual goals.  It is a spectacular must read. 

The author begins by reflecting upon the World as it was in the 50's, 60's and 70's when the majority of individuals held God in esteem.  Not that long ago, society was kinder and there was a lot less violence.  I shed a few tears remembering this gentle time.  Times when we didn't lock our doors at night nor worry that our belongings would be stolen.  A time when people respected one another and cared about their neighbors.  Hawkin's than compares those days to the time we are now living in.  The times spoken about in the scripture whereby the good would be called bad and the bad good.  It's a very difficult time for Christians but Hawkin's proves we can overcome.  He reminds of us of Daniel from scripture and how that he lived during similar times.  Daniel never gave up nor did he give he in.  Rather Daniel continued to serve the Lord and the Lord was with him.

The Daniel Code will encourage the Christian heart.  This book is a blessing in so many ways.

I am thrilled that I had the opportunity to review this publication for Book Look Bloggers.  I think it is a must read.

Dr. Reggie Anderson Offers Hope During Life's Most Trying Times

Dr. Reggie Anderson won readers over with His best-seller "Appointments With Heaven: The True Story of a Country Doctor's Healing Encounters With The Hereafter".  He has had over twenty five years of emergency room experience witnessing diverse deaths often at the patient's bedside.  Now he gifts us with his newest publication "The One Year Book of Healing."  After witnessing suffering first-hand, he lends thoughts on overcoming these tribulations with Faith.

Presented as a devotional, the reader will be soothed and uplifted each day with a story, experience and/or scripture.  He reminds us that all of us experience heartache and that we are not alone.  This book targets physical, spiritual and emotional wellness.  The hope that he offers is priceless.  No doubt this much needed resource will rank high among best sellers as Dr. Anderson's books have achieved in the past. Tyndale Bloggers gave me the opportunity to read this stellar book in exchange for my thoughts.

Really Woolly 5 Minute Bedtime Treasury

Toddler's love the "Really Woolly" sheep that Dayspring Products introduced into their tiny world.

These sweet characters represent Christ and His faithful followers or the Shepard and his sheep.

The 5 Minute Bedtime Treasury is a collaboration of their short stories to share with your little ones before they fall asleep.  The book includes simple questions to ignite conversation and teach the listener.

Author Bonnie Ritner and illustrators Julie Sawyer Philips have created this endeared gift book.

Book Look Bloggers gave me the awesome opportunity to review in exchange for my thoughts.

A Definite Must Read for those Facing Adversity

       
                   Chase Away Cancer is the riveting story of the Ewoldt family.  Their young son is diagnosed with terminal cancer and even in their darkest nights they refuse to give up on hope.  They will put us. who have very little to complain about in life, to shame and grateful that our lot is not as heavy.  They will give encouragement to others facing tremendous trial.  They will remind us about Miracles and hope and love.
The author, Ellie Poole Ewoldt, brings the families reality to light and we find ourselves fighting along with them.  I am grateful having had the fine opportunity to review this book for Tyndale Blog Network.  A Definite Must read~

Our Lives Had Once Been Beautiful and Our Lives Are Beautiful Still

   
           September Vaudrey's, Colors of Goodbye has moved me more than any other book I have ever read on loss.  Her loss is a parent's worse nightmare, that of losing a child.  Katie, her amazing daughter (a daughter that any parent would be proud to have) dies suddenly of an aneurysm at the young age of 19. Any doubt of the Vaudrey's faith in God is relinquished when reading this true account.  September shares her raw struggles which match what many Christians face when facing tragedy yet I have never seen in publication.  Mom Vaudrey questions whether the loss of her daughter is somehow because of something she did in the past.  Read along as genuine friends reassure her that it is not her fault.  From the point of impact of the accident on God makes himself known with visions and miracles to aide the Vaudrey family through their heartbreak.  Real evidence that God is there and that God is Good (Author's words) even when we think He is not.  Ms. Vaudrey's growth through her pain offers Hope to all that the sun will shine again and that they don't have to give in to bitterness and anger.  This stellar publication offers tools to help all those facing horrendous loss.  Special Kudos to Katie Vaudrey for leaving a life of ripples and to September Vaudrey for having the courage to share their story.  I am more than honored to have been able to review this book for the Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for my thoughts.  Think upon these wise words from the writer,
'"God never promised me a lifetime with my daughter.  He never promised me any of the blessings I get to treasure everyday. He promises us comfort in sorrow, strength when our faith fails, inexplicable peace, His presence in storms and life in all its fulness for those who follow him---but not a pain free life.  And the things he promises, He delivers."'

Movie Review: 94 Feet

     FishFlix is a prominent Christian Movie Online Store designed to deepen your faith.  Imagine my surprise when I was contacted by their representative to do reviews for them.  What an Honor!  They are noted for '"featuring thousands of Christian dvds , everyday low prices and FREE shipping for orders over $40.'"  How phenomenal is that?  Family oriented entertainment at an affordable price.
Those that join the FishFlix mailing list and/or text 5-GIFT to 44222 will receive a $5 coupon to FishFlix.com.
With such a wide array of Christian topics to view (biographies, end times, children and sports to name a few) in film and movies they don't disappoint.  I have since become a huge fan of FishFlix.

FishFlix sent me the newly released movie  94 Feet which is the harrowing story of a small Indiana coal mining community which is met with catastrophe. Although the location is fiction based, the events are true St. Michaels is a town where people work hard.  They are family oriented and basically good people. St. Michaels has been financially spent since a number of their businesses have gone bankrupt. The movie focuses on the layoff's of the coal miners group;  which the people respected for generations.  Now it is feared that it will lend to their doom.  Long standing members of the town decide to leave.  Others are on the brink of losing hope. The characters are impeccable, making the story come to life.  While watching I felt akin to Chris and Denise Rossi who both lost their father's to coal mining collapses.  Chris has a best friend, Marco who is quite the character.  Their friendship keeps the watchers on a roller coaster of laughter and tears.  And than it happens, on what seems to be the last work for many who were laid off or who are leaving, the mine collapes 94 feet.  With little air to survive, we witnesses employees helping one another to survive and helping the dying.  The community unites together in Faith.  Without spoiling the movie I have to say it is one of the most powerful movies I ever seen .  I loved it! These type of movies are my favorite. As a Christian we all face adversity and tribulations and I enjoy learning how others get through their most difficult times.  I vow to learn from these circumstances.  I highly recommend 94 Feet!

Forgiveness Is Not An Event, It Is a Lifestyle ~Kate Grosmaire

Heart wrenching and compelling, I would rather miss a night of sleep than to put this book down.  It is imperative that the reader read Forgiving My Daughter's Killer in it's entirety to fully appreciate how Kate Grosmaire was able to forgive her sweet daughter's killer.  Something that would seem so unnatural to most parents.  Her faith began as a child when she witnesses a young person die from a gun shot wound in her house.  Her Grandparents and parents lived a Godly lifestyle, instilling a love for God in their children.  Kate grew up turning to the Lord for everything.  This true story is a testament of how those things which are impossible to man; are possible with God.  Her daughter's killer is her daughter's boyfriend.  The family formed a love for him prior to this incident insomuch that they allowed him to live with them when he had a fallout with his parents.  Both Kate (the author) and her husband, Andy share this thought...they could not define Conor (the killer) by one single moment of His life.  Their hearts were truly full of God's Spirit.  I am so grateful Kate Grosmaire despite her loss, wrote this moving book.  So that unbeliever's can see the beauty of God.  The family keeps in contact with Conor after he is incarcerated.  There is an entire chapter devoted to questions and answers with Conor.  Here he elaborates on how the Grosmaire's forgiveness develops his faith in God.  I cannot say enough about this book, it's incredible.  BookLook Bloggers gave me the opportunity to review in exchange for my thoughts.  

Accolades for Peter Szondy's Mustard Seed

                      There is much truth and many lessons to be learnt in Szondy's "Mustard Seed".  This being the primary reason I prefer non-fiction reads and although this story is fiction, it certainly fits the bill.  In fact it is a mix of delight; fun and instruction.  It's one of those books that you won't be able to put down.  Never doubting, my soul is like a sponge whenever it comes to anything about Miracles.  Realizing I am in the minority, I highly recommend this book to all skeptic's.  Read with an open mind.
                       Early in the book we find the Hopkin's family at Church.  Little Sara who is only 8 years old is singing "Amazing Grace" with her entire soul.  She has a faith that would undermine most adult's.  The author ensures the reader recognizes her fond spirit.  Jesus see's something in Her.  Numerous times,  Szondy reverts us to the well known scripture Luke Chapter 18 verse 17  which reads '"Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it."'
                       As many know, Sara goes on to perform many miracles (with God's assistance) throughout the novel.  Not wanting this review to be a spoiler, I choose to focus on the type of individual Christ would chose to do his will.  Sarah exemplifies these characteristics:  pure, sincere and childlike. This should be our goal each day.  I am so grateful I had the opportunity to examine this book in exchange for my honest opinion for BuzzPlant.  It deserve's an A+ and can be read for all ages.

Christmas 2015

                 Last night I was sitting back reflecting on the past year and my heart swelled with such gratitude. I got everything I wanted and feel spoiled not just by my family and friends but also by God.  It's amazing to see how circumstances worked out when I was close to losing Faith.  The end result being much joy and many blessings.  I would plea, never ever give up because God's way truly is the Best even when we cannot see.
       I can't help but contemplate on the things my husband does for us (his family) and always with such love.  What a wonderful world it would be if there were more Harold's; a true gentleman who bends over backwards to help others out.  I could never ask for a better spouse.
       This year my little sister came home twice (spiritually & naturally).  My soul sings with such joy renewing our relationship which was hard to keep up when she lived miles away.  Now back in Michigan it's like we never ever were apart.
        The Lord saw my many fastings and prayer for my youngest daughter.  He initiated a wonderful Miracle in her life and no sooner did things resolve in her life than an unexpected emergency occurred in my eldest daughter's life.  Nicole & Nick being close to twenty years of marriage and who gave me Bailey & Cara (Bailey being 17 years and Cara 16)  became pregnant again.  She had a very difficult delivery and withstood many blood tranfustions but Thank God she is ok today and we are all loopy with love for our newest addition, Brayden,
        Through our Church I became very close friends with a sweet sister from Georgia.  Sister Kenah Knowles.  Although we have never met in person, it's like we knew one another all of our lives.  She has become an inspiration by sharing her experiences and a prayer partner for life.  Pray for our dear sister who lost her husband not long ago.  He being a member and she is my age.  Their love and bond through God was great and the separation has been difficult.
       Oh the Great Love of God.  He is so real and real in our lives if we would but have Him.  I began 2015 with many concerns and I watched as the Lord worked through each situation and only through Him was I able to make it through to enjoy the end results...of pure joy~

Finding some Light through the Media

                    Growing up in a faith based family, I can totally relate to Kevin Harvey's new book "The Bible in Pop Culture; Finding our creator in superheroes, prince charming and other modern marvels".  It was a real treat to find Faith mentioned in the media through song, books, plays or movies as a teenager to confirm my belief.  While I was growing up in the seventies, my christian friends and I rocked to Norman Greenbaum's "Spirit in the Sky" and learnt all the words to the musical "Jesus Christ Superstar".  The Staple Singer's made billboard hits of "Respect Yourself" and "I'll Take You There".  When Star Wars hit the big screen everyone was on board to taking the side of the good force.  So we were blessed with a number of inspirational sources and we actively sought them out.
Kevin Harvey presents today's inspirational and faith filled films and examines how they affect christians of today.  One of my favorite movies "The Book of Eli" with Denzel Washington is listed along with "Bruce Almighty" which features Jim Carey.  The author even compares the infamous family, the Kardashians to dysfunctional families from the beginning of time in the Bible.  This book is geared towards teenagers and young adults.  There is even a section of puzzles and word games.  I was granted the ability to read this book for BookLook bloggers in exchange for my honest review.  Great gift for teens~

An Extraordinary Love Story Between Man And His Best Friend

        Tyndale's '"Stay Lessons my dogs taught me about life, loss and grace"' by Dave Burchett is a treasure for all pet lovers.  Those who realize the special kinship that only their furry friend can bring will relate to this true story of love and loyalty.  Dave Burchett adopts Hannah, a beautiful labrador who not only becomes a playmate but a comfort for his wife while she battles cancer.  The author is touched by the many lessons he learns from Hannah about being patient, living in the moment and surrendering during her time on Earth.  The Lord himself said that he would use the weak to confound the wise.  The bond between owner and pet is so strong that it supercedes many human connections.  When Hannah faces cancer, herself, she lives each day to the fullest and battles bravely.  This outstanding book will inspire many.  I was given the great priviledge of reviewing for Tyndale Books in exchange for my true thoughts.  

Rush of Heaven Is A Source Of Comfort & Hope

                   Rush of Heaven has special meaning to me.  This true account of Ema McKinley (the author) who endures a horrendous accident at her workplace which subsequently leaves her in chronic daily pain from reflex sympathetic dystrophy (rsd) is near twin to my recent experiences.  I literally could not put this book down.  By sharing her ups and downs with the reader, she also offers hope and comfort.  Her strong faith in God is to be admired as is her great love for him which never waivers even during her most uncomfortable moments.  Twenty years after the accident, her faith is rewarded and she is healed by Jesus.  For the naysayers (those who don't believe in miracles) she provides proof through her updated doctors reports.  This is an outstanding read which will enhance each readers faith.  I was given the opportunity to read and review for the BookLook community.

A Stellar Tool For Those Struggling With Infertility & Miscarriage

BARREN AMONG THE FRUITFUL~Navigating Infertility with Hope, Wisdom and Patience by Amanda Hope Haley is a must read for all those facing the struggles and heartbreak of infertility and miscarriage.  This awesome book can also bring encouragement and inspiration to all others facing lifes difficulties and how to learn to cope when your desire does not become a reality.  Another great tool in the Inscribed Series which I was given the honor to review for BookLook Bloggers.  I personally wish that this asset was available during my child baring years in which I suffered eleven miscarriages.  The emotional roller coaster parents face can be devastating; especially when they feel they are alone.  I am thankful that my prayers were answered in that I was able to deliver two healthy daughters through high risk pregnancies.  Amanda Hope Haley develops an immediate bond with her readers.  Addressing the many concerns and conflicts families face in like situations allows her to reach out in compassion and understanding and give them the hope and encouragement to continue on.  Her Faith is contagious and welcomed.

Bodie Hodge Confirms Jesus Christ is The Only Reason for Christmas

 

Bodie Hodge, Author of The War on Christmas, bravely confronts those individuals who oppose the religious significance of this Holiday by viewing it as politically incorrect or untrue. I applaud him for using the Word of God as a weapon against  non-believers.  Step by step he guides the reader  through the time Jesus Christ was born and how the celebration of Christmas came about; including how it got the name.  The amount of scriptural evidence will disprove that this day was meant to be a Pagan event which left Christ out of the focus.  Hodge's in depth studies confirm this to be contrary to History.  The author also succeeds in clarifying a multitude of questions surrounding the Birth of Christ which atheist rely on to weaken the Truth.  I am quite fond of this book and all the lesson's I learned while reading.  For all Christians, it is an excellent reference tool to keep on hand and I definitely recommend.  As a Member of Handlebar Publishing I was given The War on Christmas in exchange for my honest review.                                                                                                                                                        

Lauren Scrugg's ~ Beautiful Inside & Out

 

As the founder of  LOLO Magazine little did the very gorgeous, Lauren Scruggs know what was awaiting her in the near future.  Not only was she a natural beauty but she would have to summon up all her inward spiritual beauty to survive a horrendous accident where an airplane's propellars cut off her hand and disfigured her face.  Ironically her career centered around appearance.  The rich Christian stories of faith that her parent's taught her would now become her comfort and hope.  A few weeks prior to the accident after breaking up with her boyfriend James, he had a premonition that something awful was going to happen and he begged her to be careful.  While on the airplane, Lauren began to feel overwhelmed with panic and anxiety.  Not understanding why, the only thing she could do was pray.  After surgery, Lauren slips into a coma.  The writer fills us in on young Lo Lo's life.  It wasn't always easy.  She is a twin to Brittany and they are inseparable.  The Scrugg's family faces adultery, divorce and after many prayers remarriage.  The second time around the entire family choose Christ as their main priority.  Christ would also become the reason for Lauren's healing.  This true account will inspire many never to give up in the face of adversity.  Lauren reminds us what true courage is.  She fights to regain her career back and comes back on top.  I am thankful to Tyndale Blog Network for the opportunity to read such a sensational book!

The PERFECT Remedy for Conflicted Souls~

 As a member of Tyndale Network I chose Dr. Reggie Anderson's "APPOINTMENTS WITH HEAVEN" to review with great anticipation to read of the experiences he embraces with those passing on.  These true accounts for me would become the icing on the cake.  His book has much more to offer.  Never before was I so enchanted with each aspect of a book that I deliberately took time to read and re-read my favorite parts.  I wanted to savor in what the writer was telling us without missing anything.  I enjoyed being a part of the doctor's journey from early childhood to adult.  Perhaps because I could relate so well with him, I found that the author and I come from similar backgrounds.  We were both born with a spiritual spoon in our mouths surrounded by a loving, Christian family and very protected by the harshness of the world around us.  Dr. Anderson's childhood was filled with guidance; incredible support; joy and discipline.  His faith was strong during those early years.  When a family of beloved friends are murdered his faith is shattered.  He can't comprehend that a loving God could allow such an evil act to come upon people who have always put him first.  So the young Reggie concludes that there must not be a God.  This book is the perfect remedy for all those who have lost the faith or individuals who ever doubted that there is a God.  As a young man, Reggie choses to believe in Science until he finds that it really isn't the answer.  A miracle happen's to send this prodigal back to his first love, God.  Not wanting to reveal what happens, I recommend all to get a copy of this outstanding biography.  I just couldn't put it down. 

 

Alone Yet Not Alone, A True Story Made into Movie about a Kidnapping and Faith in God~

    Winner of 5 Dove Awards and approved for ages 12 and up, Alone Yet Not Alone is everything a family needs to see.  A loving family who work hard together during the time English colonies are entangled in war.  Two innocent sisters are caught by the enemy and held captive, their comfort coming from a family hymn and putting their Faith into practice.  Copies of the book are available here Buy the book.  To obain tickets for the movie Purchase tickets .  Check out the movie trailer and more Website .  Don't miss out, obtain your tickets in advance for this milestone featuring our Nation's history.