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~

Age Appropriate Bible Offers More Than Cuteness~

                     Age appropriate (4-8 years) and easy to understand The Veggie Tales Bible New International Reader Version is equipped with multiple tools to enhance your child's experience in learning the scriptures.
                     There is an introduction to each book to prepare the reader about who wrote the book and key highlights.  This is an essential guide especially for first time readers of the Bible.
Bigger words can sometimes be intimidating, so there is also a dictionary included to resolve that problem.
                    Parents will be pleased to know that chapters and sentences are shortened in an effort to keep the reader's interest.  Midway through the Bible there are 8 full color Bible stories as told by the veggie tales.  These are simply adorable and appear like comics.
                    For little minds that tend to forget "Remember This" has 100 entries of scripture to remember.  I was honored to read this book for Book Look Bloggers in exchange for my review.  This children's Bible actually is better than I expected and I very highly recommend!
                

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~

About Arranged - FYI Network

2015 and "Arranged" is at the top of my  list of stellar programs on television.  Noone gets in between my favorite program and my off time.  It may be because my background is very similar to the families portrayed in this reality show.  No, our family does not believe in arranged marriages but once that is set aside...it's like reliving my young years in a very close knit Italian family with staunch belief's in family and making marriage last.  I come from a very large old school Italian broad.  Grandpa Antonio & Grandma Rafeala gave birth to 19 children (long before 19 kids and counting).  They owned a huge duplex, with 2 apartments atop their primary residence.  When I was young our family lived in the upper front apartment while my Uncle Tony and his family lived in the back.  I thought at that time that we were rich because our street was riddled with aunt and uncles and cousins.  I thought the DiFalco's owned the street in Detroit in the early 60's.  I seen my cousins on a daily basis so we grew up more like brothers and sisters rather than cousins.  We went to school together, played together and everyone ate downstairs at grandma's place.  The kids all felt overwhelmed with lots of supervisors because whenever our parents weren't around, there was always an aunt or uncle there to keep an eye out on us...myself included.  I cherish those days and the memories.  It would take me years before I found out that not everybody grew up that way.  Our family was deeply spiritual and had many ground rules like respect your parents, showing respect and not bringing reproach to our family name. So in a lot of ways I can relate to 'Christian & Maria's' lifestyle.  Perhaps this is why this program brings a warm inner feeling when it airs.  I wish only the best for all the couples.  I dearly love learning about diverse cultures. About Arranged - FYI Network:



'via Blog this'

Adoption~ The Sweet Hope of Family

Teresa Hull presents this beautiful story, "Loves Complete A Russian Journey", in simplistic terms for children who are preparing to be adopted.  In terms they could understand she breaks down the process so that they will be ready for their journey.  She does a wonderful job and covers everything.  A much needed book that will prove to be beneficial for many.  I was given the opportunity to review this book for Harper Collins Book Look Club. 

Calling all Disney fans!

               Through the years "Disney" has brought families together and made beautiful memories.  Just in time for Christmas they have given us another reason to celebrate.... The new
"Disney Classic's" boxed set contains 90+ of our Disney favorite tunes.  PRE-ORDER TODAY
Disney Classics
From The Studio's earliest days, music has always been an integral part of the Disney creative process. But when 'Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf' debuted in 1933, it began a musical legacy that remains unmatched to this day. Disney Classics Box Set is a music collection that represents this legacy.

Timeless Classics
Collected here are some of the most iconic melodies from Disney's golden era. From 'When You Wish Upon a Star' to 'A Spoonful of Sugar' and 'Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah' to 'The Whistle Stop,' these Timeless Classics are part of a musical heritage inextricably woven into our human culture heirlooms passed down through the generations.

Modern Classics
This compilation begins with 1989's The Little Mermaid, which not only ignited the renaissance of Disney Animation and storytelling, but a rebirth of Disney Music as well. Favorites from 'Under the Sea,' 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'A Whole New World,' these Modern Classics continue to shape the company's musical history and heritage.

Television Classics
Spanning from the 1950s to present day, this album represents quite an eclectic compilation of themes. At the very least, it's an interesting musical graph of changing tastes and social evolution over the last 60+ years. Everything from 'The Ballad of Davy Crockett,' to 'Get'cha Head in the Game' from High School Musical, is represented on this album, but probably the most beloved of these Television Classics however, has to be the 'Mickey Mouse Club Alma Mater.'

Theme Park Classics
Music plays a vital role in the Parks as well; whether it be cleverly establishing an attraction's story or the sheer brilliance of underscoring the banks and turns of a thrilling roller coaster. Collected here are not only those Theme Park Classics we know and love today, but others we fondly remember from days gone by.

Cancer Could Not Stop Kristian Anderson's Love

After winning the hearts of Millions via you tube, Kristian Anderson shares his struggle with cancer in his  book, Day's Like These Even in the Darkest Moments Light Can Shine Through.  Kristian surprizes his wife with a video he created for her birthday and he posts it on You Tube to share with the World his undying love for his partner.  Once it went viral, he gains a multitude of fans and well wishers.  Only 34 years old, the young Australian is struck with bowel and liver cancer.  Although receiving this terminal illness diagnosis, Kristian refuses to give up hope and he shares with us his most intimate moments.  Booksneeze gave me the awesome opportunity to read this fascinating story in exchange for my thoughts.  Having lost my best friend and most recently my beloved mother-in-law to cancer Kristian's story was quite therapeutic for me.  I am in awe of his courage and concerns for his loved ones rather than himself.  This book was one of Oprah's favorites, ''He taught us how to LIVE with cancer.  The Light he left on earth will be dimmed by his passing."'  I agree with Ms. Winfrey's sentiment.  Kristian's story will remind us not to take anything for granted and to be grateful whatever our lot may be.  Perhaps the greatest significance of his sharing is that I was able to understand better what the cancer patient goes through.  He writes about chemo and it's aftereffects which even close loved ones don't talk about while they go through this.  It is a stellar read which I highly recommend to all. 

 

The 5 Love Languages for Kids by Dr. Gary Chapman

 

Award Winning Author, Dr. Gary Chapman teams up with Rick Osborne and Illustrator, Wilson Williams Jr  to create this phenomenal book with interactive website to teach children the values and importance of Love.  Selling more than 7 million copies confirms the success of the #1 New York Best Seller.  The author categorizes the way love is given and received in five forms; words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time and physical touch.  He has written numerous books not only for children but also adults to teach all ages about the greatest gift of all...charity.  More information can be obtained at The 5 Love Languages Website .  A Perfect Pet for Peyton is the lovely story that I was allowed to review for Moody Press in exchange for my opinions.  The twins, Peyton and Penny are celebrating their birthday and are excited to be going to The Perfect Pet Pal Emporium for their gift.  I was thrilled to see that the children pray throughout their day.  I got attached to this fictional Christian family.  It's a wonderful read for the children to learn respect and manners.  Peyton opens the car door for his mother.  Their parents decide to hold their Birthday party at the Pet Emporium with all their friends. The friends will also  choosing pets for themselves. What's awesome about this peticular place is that it is part zoo, part farm and part aquarium so there is dozens of pets to encounter and choose from.  Without giving away too much of  the story, it centers on the young peoples journey and their great excitement.  It promotes family unity and support.  The Perfect Pet for Peyton is a positive tool for young parents which I highly recommend~

I'm Not Afraid of Anything That Can Happen to Me on This Earth

 Written in a letter to his children and than presented as a legacy of how he lived, Adam Brown (Navy Seal Team Six) stated '"I am not afraid of anything that might happen to me on this Earth because I know no matter what, Nothing can take my spirit from Me."'
   Fearless-The Undaunted Courage and Ultimate Sacrifice of Navy Seal Team Six Operator Adam Brown by Eric Blehm is Superb!  My insecurities that this read would be above my head were quickly dissolved within the first few pages of the book.  I commend the author for this easy to understand brilliant writing.  This true account was one of those books I just could not put down.  A special thank you for Walterbrook Multnomah for extending me the opportunity to read in exchange for a honest review.
   Blehm covers Adam's childhood and the principles his parent's raised him on.  The reader gains insight on the makings of a true warrior years before he is in battle.  This soldier seems made to order having these endearing qualities.  Adam's nature was to stand up for the underdog and he was a gentleman to all women, even asking wallflowers to dance with him.  Though small in stature, he was never intimidated by his own size and always wanted to be the one to slay giants.  His own real anxiety was not to displease his parents. As a young adult, he often would appear odd to his friends for not going along with his peers because his first goal was making his parents proud.  There is so much more that I could write about this fine exemplary man but I wanted to focus on his character.  I highly recommend the book for young people and parents although I know everyone would walk away a better person for learning about him and Seal Team Six.  To learn more go to this book link http://fearlessnavyseal.com/

Now That's Italian~

Product – Red Pepper Sauce | Progresso Frozen Foods

Progresso Foods offers a delicious shortcut to warm bellies with the cold weather upon us.  I was fortunate to receive free coupons for their new frozen sauce and specialty pastas after becoming a fan member. Within these choices of sauces:  Red Pepper Sauce; Marsala Sauce & White Wine Sauce I purchased the first.  Coming from a large Italian family, I learnt to make both spaghetti noodles and sauce from scratch from my grandmother which was an all day affair.  Thanks to Progresso a family can enjoy the great taste of an awesome pasta meal which the cook can prepare in less than forty five minutes.  Imagine how elated I was when my spouse gave me kudos for the angel hair pasta and garlic bread meal I had made.  Progresso's Red Pepper Sauce just needed to be warmed up because it is not necessary to add anything.  I boiled the noodles and baked garlic bread yet the family had praised me as if I spent my entire day in the kitchen.  Better yet, this specialty sauce was so unique that we all were happy to sample something new and different.  Looking forward to the marsala sauce and white wine sauce to enhance supper meals.  If grandma were still alive I would have to explain to her that Progresso is truly Italian.  Give yourself a break...try Progresso now~

John Hagee's "The Power of Prophetic Blessing"

John Hagee, New York Best-Selling Author, encourages readers to refer to the Scriptures and research God's promises of Blessings and Prosperity to his people from the beginning of time.  Mr. Hagee takes the Bible literally, exactly how I was raised in my home church.  In fact, you will hear me often say that I was born spiritually rich however there are some discrepancies in how I define blessings and John Hagee's view of  this wording.  Author Hagee's emphasis leans more towards materialistic belongings whereas I was taught to  believe '"But Lay Up Treasures for Yourself in Heaven where neither moth nor rust corrupt and where thieves do not break through nor steal"' {Matthew 6:20}.  I firmly feel that our goal should be for spiritual gifts and treasures, that is not to say that God will not also bless us with what we need in this life, it's just a matter of priorities.
See Matthew 6:21 '"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also"'.In the forward of his book, John Hagee states '"Humans have forever been searching for a guarantee of the good life--"' and his goal is to relate to readers how supernatural blessing when spoken by spiritual authority can help you experience spiritual, physical, emotional and relational prosperity.  This book is divided into three sections as follows:  Defining the Prophetic and Priestly Blessings; The Prophetic Blessings and Releasing and receiving the Blessing.  This book reminds me of a recent conversation that my spouse and I had.  I was telling him that if he prayed about a certain matter that the Lord would bless him.  My husband was quite upset and quickly explained that the reason he was praying was because He loved the Lord, not because he expected anything in return.  My concern is that it seems as if the writer is selling God to the people so that they will serve him for what they can get not out of the pureness of love in their hearts.  Let me explain here, if we serve the Lord he does bless his people but that does not mean that they will walk through life without trials and tribulations '"it rains on the good and the bad"'.  When loss or illness comes, it does not mean that God loves his children any less.  Look at Job who the Lord allowed to be tested to prove his faithfulness.  Despite our personal differences and interpretations of God's word, I am glad that I had the priviledge to review this book and learn of  other believer's teachings.  Very easy to understand and gain insight.  I recommend to those who may be studying the differences in religions or denominations.

How to Strengthen Family Bonds

Nothing is more important than family and the bonds that we create with our loved ones. Dave Stone,a Senior Pastor of Southern Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky addresses how to create and keep strong family bonds. Having a family of three children himself, he is well aware of the issues and difficulties one might face in raising a strong Christian unit in today's world. He offers simple and easy advice amid humor and common sense. In one of my favorite chapters "Meat and Potatoes: The Basic's" author Stone states the importance of making time productive with your family. This can be done at the dinner table by creating games like the 'talking bowl' or 'index cards' to spark a response from each family member on imperative issues. A stellar idea to keep close contact especially since so many members of today's family has little extra time when working more than one job. What I took from this awesome book is that we must make family a priority and find the time to make our moments count. I had the priviledge to review BUILDING FAMILY TIES WITH FAITH, LOVE & LAUGHTER by Dave Stone for Book Sneeze. I highly recommend!

What You Don't Know But Should Know About Me

My readers, in order to understand why it might be a few days in between updates to my blog, it is imperative I tell you a little more about me. In 2005 I was diagnosed with Tarlov Cyst Disease (a debilitating and painful condition which in time erodes the spinal cord and causes damage to one's organs); thus more days than not, I am in much pain. However, for many reasons I chose not to elaborate on my condition until today. For one, it took me a few years to even admit to myself that I had this disease and once I had, I did not want sympathy but now for the sake of supporting other sufferer's I am ready to speak about this condition. I have been fortunate because I was raised in a strong Christian Faith and through prayer and the support of the members of my Church and family I have been able to adjust to this situation. The Love is plenty as well as the support. It is so important that whatever disability, that the family encourages their loved one and helps them to move into their new "life". Only those with similar illnesses truly understand that we can make no promises nor is our life consistant. Unfortunately in 2005, I was forced into retirement with the recommendation of five neurologists. A better part of my day I have to rest or wage a possibility of a "flare up" (a flu like condition which exacerbates this affliction) which can last up to a few weeks. Being the creative individual that I have always been, it is frustrating for me. I dream of what I want to do but am unable to keep up or participate because of the tarlov cysts. So I beg with the reader, please be patient if I am unavailable or am not updating on a daily basis. My thoughts for this blog are more than you can see or know...in time, it will come together. Close friends and relatives have come to learn that I am not always available and many times I am much of a recluse. The time I do spend on line and with my members is a genuine blessing~ a time to shine even for a short while and I am grateful for each and everyone of you. When I am able I hope to update on the powerful resources there are out there for those with any physical handicap and the ways I have learned to positively deal with the chronic pain. God is always so Good and yes, he gives us the strength to cope and enjoy each day no matter what we may have to endure. Everyone, including those who do not have an illness, should focus daily on their Blessings because it is impossible to be depressed when you look at the wonderful things in your life. In my life, the Good far outweighs the bad, I have no reason to complain. For more information and online support about Tarlov Cyst Disease, these links are available
http://www.tarlovcyst.net

New Fan Here of "A Life Full of Laughter"

I have found an exciting new blog "A Life Full of Laughter" which is so much fun to follow. Lisa and I have way more in common than she even realizes; perhaps that is the first blog I visit each morning. Gardening; quilting; family...we share the very same passions. You would think she was my long lost sister. Although we are not neighbors (wish we were) we do live in neighboring states...Lisa lives in Ohio and I in Michigan. I wanted to mention this awesome blog so you, also, can become a fan and follow. The rewards are multiple. She lifts your spirits and always has plenty of giveaways to participate in. Don't lose out.

God is the Same Yesterday, Today and Forever

If God led the Isrealites out of the Wilderness and into the Land of Milk and Honey with signs of his divine guidance in the days of old, would he not do the same for his children today if they asked him? Exodus 13:21 reads "And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, guiding them on their way; and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light: so that they were able to go on day and night." My Blog, "Miracles" was created in hopes of sharing some of the experiences I have had where I was blessed by God's Divine interaction in my life. I would like to begin with this true story of answered prayer. Shortly after my husband and I had bought our first home our refridgerator went haywire. I tried not to complain because our finances were very tight and I knew we were in no position to buy a new one. One morning, after I seen my husband leave for work I went to the refridgerator to get the baby formula for our little one, Nicole. I knew that it had gone bad when I went to warm it up. I immediately ran into the living room, got down on my knees and wept. The only one I felt that I could turn to with this major problem was the Lord. I prayed that he would provide our family with our needs and right now we needed a refridgerator. Suddenly the phone rang and it was my mother. She was calling from work to ask me if I needed a refridgerator. My mother had no idea that we were having problems with ours. It just happened that the people that she worked for in Grosse Pte, MI had bought a new one that was being delivered. They needed this one out of their house before the new one arrived. Let me repeat here, my mother had no idea because I never told her. Some may say it's just coincidence. I beg to differ. God answered my prayers. I went on to tell my mother than of just how badly we needed that appliance and that her call saved my day. That night I went to church and testified of God's goodness. Yes, God is alive and he does hear our prayers! From time to time, I will be sharing more experiences on The Miracle Page of my blog. Keep checking back and feel free to share~

A Spiritual Platter

When my Grandfather DiFalco came to America seeking riches, little did he know what God had in store for him.  He left his hometown of  Venice, Italy in his early twenties in search of a better life.  He met my Grandmother Rapheala and after a short courtship, they married and settled in Detroit, MI.  Grandpa landed a very good job at Ford Motor Company and it was a blessing he did as he would bare twelve children.  When my grandmother was pregnant with my father, Ether, she decided to give her life to Christ.  Grandpa and Grandma were both attending The Church of Jesus Christ~The Restored Gospel and fell in love with The Word of God and wanted that lifestyle for their family.  In time both of my grandparents were baptised and raised their family in a Christain home.  By the time I came around, the entire family was fervent in serving the Lord and I happened to be blessed into a huge immediate and extended family that put God first.  Although I was not born with a silver spoon in my mouth, I feel that I received much more.  I was given a spiritual platter.  I was raised in the Church, became baptised in my teenage years and have experienced walking in the Spirit for more than forty years.  I grew up hearing many of the brothers and sisters testify about how God did miracles for them and over the years have witnessed miracles in my own life over and over again.  Thus, the title for my blog "Miracles".  I didn't realize that other people did not have the same background as I and even now I find it hard that people question if Miracles truly occur.  The purpose of my blog is to share some of my many experiences in hopes of  encouraging others.  I believe that God is the same yesterday, today and forever. The many blessings he has given me, he is able to do for others if we open the door.  My heart is overflowing with gratefulness and I have found, that by putting God first, everyday is true joy. The key to contentment is being thankful no matter where we are in this life.  Thank you for wanting to share in my journey.