Review: Captivated : Finding Freedom in a Media Captive Culture

 

Captivated

Finding Freedom in a Media Captive Culture

Captivated DVD$16.95

I am pleased to share with you my review of the documentary Captivated from MediaTalk101. I received a copy of  the movie Captivated on Dvd to review.

 My Dear Husband Mark and I sat down to watch this as it was one of those things we worry most about in our home. Of course we have cell phones and computers. We allow the children to use my kindle and an old phone for games.  Most of our media is the computer use and tv viewing. We did not have TV for over 5 years when the children were very young and I think someday we will go back to living in the country and not have TV again. Mainly due to the fact that we truly enjoy a slower pace of life and less media for ourselves and the children.

 I have to say that I enjoyed the factual information set forth in this documentary.  It showed us the facts, the history of the technology and then told us the repercussions on our children and ourselves if we use media to much. I was hoping for something that would guide us to a better understanding on our use of the computer, games and cell phones. This made complete sense to me.  It also gives answers of what to do. What kinds of things to substitute when taking a media fast and then things to do after. As we seek to walk closer to the Lord and away from this world and be separate in so many ways. I have to say that the music at the end of the documentary really touched my heart and brought me to tears. " Fix Our Eyes On You " by Phillip Telfor, really brought home the whole theme of the documentary and made a huge impact on me.  

I would highly recommend this film to everyone who is seeking a balance in life. The Dvd is meant for adults but is rated for all ages, so it could be viewed by the whole family.  I think children very young might grow bored with the content, but would allow preteens and teens to view it with parents. Using this as a teaching tool would be very beneficial to the family and church.

“Everywhere we go, we are surrounded by screens. Have we entered a Techno utopia or a virtual prison?”

Everyone would agree that we live in a Media-saturated society, but how many consider the possibility that they have become captives? People of all ages are being held hostage by television, video games, social networks, movies, texting, tweeting, and more. They have become infatuated with the things of the world and distracted from God, from eternity, and from deeper relationships with each other.

~

This feature-length documentary is not anti-media or anti-technology, but raises concerns about the unchecked enthusiasm regarding media, and highlights the overwhelming evidence of growing problems on multiple fronts. It addresses the potential physical, moral, spiritual, mental, and emotional impact of today's media and technology when consumed or used without discretion.

~

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaptivatedTheMovie Twitter: @CaptivatedMovie

~

Captivated: Finding Freedom in a Media Captive Culture.

 

Review: Spelling You See By Demme Learning

Are your kids tired of the constant drill of words each week and a spelling list that just bores them ? Are they reluctant to actually study words to learn how they are spelled and why they are spelled the way they are ? Well, no more boring list of Words and repetitive drills !  Today I am so happy to bring you a new curriculum  for spelling , called Spelling You See !  It is by the same folks as Math You See, Demme Learning.  This new Learning tool is meant for elementary ages, or for remedial work for older students. Spelling You See is designed to be used for short periods on a daily basis. This makes it easy for the children to grasp the concepts of using vowel chunks, two or more vowels that make their sounds.  You will just love this it is so easy to use for you and your children.  You use their guidelines and where your child is at in reading and spelling as a placement guide. Select the Level that is right for your child.  Finally, a spelling curriculum that doesn't take you all day to teach.  Freeing you to help your other children or do those things that need doing in the home while they easily work their daily lesson.  Who could ask for more ? Right !

We are using Spelling You See: Americana (Level D) this year. We received Level D Americana  Softbound Workbooks Part 1 and 2, as well as an instructor handbook.

Spelling You See: Americana (Level D)
Instructor’s Handbook $14
Student Pack $30.

You may want to purchase Erasable Colored Pencils or highlighters to use. I reviewed the instructor booklet for an evening and we were good to go ! No hassle at all to get started, that to me is a big plus. It is a new way to have the children learn spelling, A way that they won't even know they are doing spelling.  No daily drill of words to test at the end of the week.  Americana is a way to actually teach Spelling, History and Reading if your using Level D Americana , least that is my take on using it.  I chose this Level as my girls are ages 10 and 11 and although technically we are doing two grade levels, they are both doing very well in Americana Level D.  I love it when I can combine subjects, it just makes our day go so much faster in learning and then we can get onto the more fun things of life !

We have been using this for 15 minutes to 30 minutes each morning. No really heavy teaching was needed. The girls could read their instructions and get right to work. If you are a parent who loves to teach and does not have more younger children to teach you can read them the story and instructions.  You can also work on making up extra things to teach subjects included in these books. The first day I read the story to the girls and explained how to do the lesson.  We also talked about the history involved in the lessons.  The first week we talked about the american flag and who made the flag, how many stars were on original flag and how many are on the American flag now and why.  Spelling  You See makes it so easy to learn many things while doing  their books.   We discuss  the lesson as well as the vowel chunks and the girls each read  the lesson to me aloud.  For us it makes our daily routine go smoothly when we combine our subjects.

I liked the look of the curriculum and having actual workbooks to use as my girls seem to do better if they have their own books to write in. I really thought it would be a good fit for us.  After several weeks of trying it out, I am rethinking this.  The girls don't like the lessons being the same everyday.  They don't like repetitive dictation at all. It is not the subject matter, as they really like the things about history.  They truly enjoy using the colored erasable pencils to do their work in these workbooks. We will keep using this for the rest of the year to see if it is a good fit for us.

 Sometimes I believe it is the kids who don't care to do anything that isn't computer based or electronic.  I personally think this is a great way to learn not only Spelling, but also other subjects we teach our children.  I also like that it is phonetically based and helps to instill good reading and decoding skills. I also like that it is not graded, but is Levels to master. This is a good thing for us as my girls are 14 months apart and my oldest thinks that she should be in a higher grade then her sister.  They are both doing wonderful in this  and they really are loving the colorful pages and the things they are learning. I don't think they know they are learning to spell better !  Thats how fun its become for them.

I would love to see more activities for each lesson and not just dictation, I feel this would make it a better fit for us personally.  So far they are both doing well in Americana Level D.  It has really taken us some time to adapt to no spelling lists and no list of words to test on each week, but I we are liking this  method a lot. I am going to keep using this with the girls till the end of this school year.  It really takes more then 6 to 8 weeks to see if it will really work for us.

You can connect with these great folks at :

https://www.facebook.com/SpellingYouSee

https://twitter.com/spellingyousee

Because of Him

~ Sharing Life Through the Written Word, of Him Who is The Word, Jesus ~

Win a Kindle Fire HDX, Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash ($229 value)

Happy St. Patrick’s Day.  Today is your Lucky Day because we are giving away 2 Kindles!!

We are giving away 2 Kindles!!

The first one is available via the rafflecopter below. The 2nd is available only to bloggers who post about this giveaway. You can find info on how to enter in the rafflecopter.

Win a Kindle Fire HDX, Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash ($229 value)

Bloggers & Authors have joined together and each chipped in a little money towards a Kindle Fire HDX 7".

All New Kindle Fire HDX 7" Giveaway

The winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HDX (US Only - $229 Value)

 

Or $229 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)

 

Or $229 in Paypal Cash (International)

 

 

Giveaway Sponsors:

I Am A Reader
Feed Your Reader
Inspired Kathy
Ripple Effect Romance Series
Author M.A. George
The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something year Old Girl
Meredith & Jennifer's Musings
Owl Always Be Reading
Author Jennifer Laurens
Bonnie Blythe's Pure Romance
Bella Street's Weird Romance
Author Jennifer Faye
Good Choice Reading
Reviews from a Bookworm
Barbara Silkstone
Rae Z. Ryans, Author
The Stubby Pencil
Author David Pandolfe
Hallowed Ink Press
Author Louise Caiola
The Reporter and The Girl
More Than a Review
Kathryn Jones
Once Upon a Twilight
Author Jason Parent
Author Amanda Tru
Author Cidney Swanson
Paige W. Pendleton
Claudia Burgoa
P.M. Richter - author
RoAnna Sylver
Tigris Eden
The Bloggers Nest
J.L. Weil
The Cheap Ebook
Luthando Coeur
Author Mary Ting/M. Clarke
Author Alecia Stone
KellysLuckyYou
Rebecca Talley
Author Kimber Leigh Wheaton
Simple Wyrdings
Tressa's Wishful Endings
Paranormal book Club (PBC)
Author Stephanie Faris
Author Inger Iversen
Author Theresa DaLayne
Where The Broken Lie by Derek Rempfer
Bound 4 Escape
Author Laura Diamond

 

Sign up to sponsor the next Kindle Giveaway here:

http://www.iamareader.com/category/kindle-giveaway-sign-ups

 

Giveaway Details

1 winner will receive their choice of an all new Kindle Fire 7" HDX (US Only - $229 value), $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash (International).

There is a second separate giveaway for bloggers who post this giveaway on their blog. See details in the rafflecopter on how to enter to win the 2nd Kindle Fire HDX 7".

Ends 3/31/14

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the participating authors & bloggers. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Quilts of Love | A SKY WITHOUT STARS by Linda S. Clare – Kindle HDX Giveaway & “Spring Fling” Facebook Party!

Will the Lakota Star Quilt she is making help Frankie sew a new future of happiness?

 

Frankie Chasing Bear is caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she also thinks he will need to learn the white man’s ways to succeed. After the untimely death of her husband, Frankie joins the U.S. Government’s Relocation Program and moves to Arizona. There she begins sewing a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn, and prayed into it.

 

A bed without a quilt is like a sky without stars, but neither the quilt—nor her new life—comes easily to Frankie. Nick Parker, for instance, is the last man Frankie wants to trust. He’s half-Lakota but Christian, and Frankie can see no good coming from that faith after her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian school. Can Nick convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad? And will Frankie learn that love is the most important ingredient—for her son’s quilt and life itself?

Biography

Linda S. Clare is an award-winning author and coauthor of several books and has also published many essays, stories, and poems in publications including The Christian Reader, The Denver Post, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. Born in Arizona, Linda and her husband now make their home in Eugene, Oregon, where Linda has taught college-level creative writing classes, and writes, edits, and mentors other writers. She also is a frequent writing conference presenter, a church retreat leader, and mom to four grown children and five wayward cats.

My Review

I hard a hard time putting this book down.  It truly held my attention. I even shed a tear or two.  It is about a mothers love for her son. It is about understanding and honor.I love the way Linda writes this riveting tale.This is a tender touching tale of love. It a wonderful way to share heritage and love for the family.  It is heart warming. I loved this as I have some Indian heritage myself, but placing a relationship to Christ and Loving others should always take precedence over anyone's family heritage. I am inspired by Linda's wanting to help the children of the Lakota's. This is one touching tale that you will not want to miss. Will love prevail in Frankie's Heart toward her son Harold ? Will Harold grow to respect and honor his heritage? Will she learn to have faith in God ? Will this quilt bridge the gap ? You will have to get the book and see.  I so cannot wait to get a pattern for this quilt and make one myself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest opinion and have received no further compensation .

Purchase a copy of this book at the following locations:
http://www.deepershopping.com/
http://www.amazon.com/
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/
http://www.christianbook.com/

Don't miss this month's Quilts of Love book, A Star Without Stars, by Linda S. Clare. Linda is celebrating the release with a Kindle HDX giveaway and joining her fellow Quilts of Love authors, Barbara Cameron and Joyce Magnin, for a Facebook "Spring Fling" party on April 1st.

One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX


• Scraps of Evidence by Barbara Cameron


• A Sky Without Stars by Linda S. Clare


• Maybelle in Stitches by Joyce Magnin

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 1st. Winner will be announced at the "Spring Fling" Facebook Party on April 1st. RSVP today and connect with the authors from the Quilts of Love series, Barbara Cameron, Linda S. Clare, and Joyce Magnin, for an evening of book chat, quilt trivia, prizes, and an exclusive look at the next Quilts of Love book!

 

So grab your copies of Scraps of Evidence, A Sky Without Stars, and Maybelle in Stitches and join Barbara, Linda, and Joyce on the evening of April 1st for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the books, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on April 1st!

Can You See the LIGHT ?

I don’t believe in Luck, but I can see the LIGHT !

L.I.G.H.T. = Luck Is God’s Help Trusted.

My God is into Miracles !

I don’t believe in coincidence either, everything happens for a reason and God has a purpose !

Walk in the Light !

Day 11 Encouragement for the Day !

 

Get Balanced!

March 21: Refresh (Chapter Eleven)

Tricia's Assignment for Today !

Don’t think balance will happen overnight—or even over an eleven-day challenge. It takes practice, and practice takes time. Spend a few minutes reviewing what you've learned throughout this challenge and what you hope to continue implementing in your life. Then blog about how you can keep persevering and working toward balance after the challenge has ended. Share encouragement for those who might feel they've failed at balance.

Success or Failure ?

Success is not measured in absolutely accomplishing something 100 %  One is not just successful when they reach one certain goal, thank the Lord.  I would truly hate to think I failed all the time by not doing somethings totally. Even our sanctification is not a all at one time event ! It is a daily process of striving to walk holy before the Lord God.  Listen to this verse

 Philippians 1:6

Being Confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ

Apostle Paul was confident and so am I, that  God  who began ( started ) a good work in you. He started it, that doesn't mean its a done deal and  your a totally perfected saint.  Yes we  are made perfect in Christ. Fact is we are also totally human and being so we fail.  Sometimes miserably !

But there's Good News ! (for the modern woman)

God is not done with us yet !!!

He said he will perform it until the day of JESUS CHRIST !

He is working on us until the very day that Jesus returns for us. That gives me hope that I have time to work on who I am in the Lord, who I am to my family, who I am to others !  My Life, My Relationships, My Service to Others will be my focus and I will try my best at those things, but I might not do everything.  And I certainly will not ever do them right all the time.  Jesus is working on Me and You !

My Home may not be spotless, its actually very lived in. I don't like clutter or things going undone, but for my personally, I physically cannot stay  standing up for long periods of time.  I have back, neck and leg injury issues and arthritis from this which hinders me from doing it all !

So What is the Answer ?

For me the answer is asking my family to help where I cannot do things, we learned that in this study. Children need to be taught early to be a part of the family team.  If you don't start early or for whatever reason your children don't want to help, they need to. Many things can make children less motivated to help. Illness, lack of stability or being spoiled by one parent or both can lead to lazy children. Find those things that motivate them and use them as rewards to motivate them to do better.  Don't you feel better when you see a reward at the end of something you have tried to achieve ?  So do they.  Don't forget to reward yourself also !

I Corinthians 9: 24-26

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize ? So run, that ye may obtain.

And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

I therefore so run, not as uncertainly, so fight I, not as one that beateth air:

God wants us to strive to do things for Him, if the idea is to please God then that is all we need be concerned with.  That is our reward, to hear Him say we have done well. To someday enter in at the gate and be accepted by Him. To live with Him in heaven for eternity. He talks here about striving to master those things we are trying to attain. God's will for us to be conformed to the image of His Son, Jesus !  To have the mind of Christ, To love others as Christ did, to serve others in humility. Having Self control in everything we do and say. Laying up treasures in Heaven. Loving others, so they see Jesus in Us.  Not running living without a purpose or carelessly.

I Colossians 3: 23-24

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive he reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

I know that I should do all things as if I was doing them for the Lord and not just anyone. I can do that because I know even if I am doing things from my heart, I will be rewarded later like all those that His. We are the body of Christ and being so we shall be with him and live with him in glory.  In this do I find great JOY and Encouragement in this life !

" Whether we Live , we live to the Lord, whether we die we die to the Lord, whether we live , whether we die,

We are the Lords !"

 

Fields of the Fatherless by Elaine Marie Cooper

 

Fields of the Fatherless

By Elaine Marie Cooper

In the early months of 1775, war is brewing in the American colonies. Although frightened, eighteen-year-old Betsy Russell (an ancestor to actor Kurt Russell) of Menotomy Village, Massachusetts, wants to be prepared in case of attack by British troops. Her father, prosperous farmer Jason, is the fourth generation of Russells on this land yet their very rights as British Colonials are being stripped away one by one. Will the King of England take their land as well? Tensions are growing here in the countryside west of Boston and the outbreak of battle seems a certainty. Jason desperately wants to protect his family his wife, children and grandchildren and their future. Betsy makes every attempt to be prepared for the worst. But not even the American militia could have predicted the bloody massacre that was about to occur right on the Russells doorstep. If Betsy loses everything she holds dear, are the rights of all the Colonists endangered?

Fields of the Fatherless is based on a true story.

Get Yours Now !  You can find it here for 99 Cents for Kindle !

Elaine Marie Cooper

My Review

I had never read any of Elaines books , so this was my first ! But it will not be my last that is for sure and for certain. I thoroughly enjoyed the historical accuracy in the book and I am compelled me to delight in reading it to my children for history as we homeschool. I so loved any and all tender moments between characters. Very tastefully written and today morals and edict are much needed. Godly Character and moral value are throughout the book and I am very pleased with all I read therein. I am so glad that I was introduced to Elaine on Colonial Quills with Carrie Fancett Pagals hosting a tea party for her. I am now so longing to read Deer Run Series. Some stories just take your breath away and bring the desire for more good reading from that author and this is one of those stories. You will want to read more of her wonderful works, if you have not done so already. I could not put it down, I had to keep reading. It is inspiring and I believe if more folks read such works, they would see what things should and could be like today !

Linda Finn
Faithful Acres Books
http://www.faithfulacres.net
faithfulacresbooks@gmail.com

I received this wonderful book from the author for my honest review and have received no other compensation from doing so.

Spring Releases from Carrie Turansky !

Are you a Carrie Turansky Fan ? Have you seen her Coming release for April ?

You won’t be disappointed ! and if your not one yet, well you will be !

Coming Release April 15th

(ebook and paperback)

Where Two Hearts Meet

by Carrie Turansky

There’s no better place for romance, forgiveness, and new beginnings than the Sweet Something Teashop.

Two Sisters, Two Heartwarming Romance novellas

Tea For Two
Allison Bennett, co-owner of a financially strapped tea shop in Princeton, New Jersey, receives a large anonymous check that saves her business. But she has no idea who sent it. Could it be from Peter Hillinger, the wealthy businessman who owns the shop next door and wants to win Allison’s heart? Or is it from Tyler Lawrence, Allison’s old boyfriend, who returns to town claiming a renewed faith and a changed life. Allison doesn’t know whom to trust. Should she follow her head or heart, or is there Someone else who can guide her toward the best path for her future?

Wherever Love Takes Us
After twenty-five years of marriage, Matt and Tessa Malone are struggling to recover financially and rebuild trust following a business failure. Then Matt inherits property in Oregon, and he wants to move the family there to make a fresh start. But Tessa can’t imagine giving up the cozy tea shop she co-owns with her sister, or leaving her friends and family in Princeton. Whose dream will they follow, and how much will it cost their family? Can they resolve their differences and rebuild a love that seems lost?

Now Ladies, I would be marking your calendars for these !  Carrie is a wonderful Author who can weave your hearts right into her romantic tales. Plan on spending your springtime days on the veranda , with a cup of tea or a glass of sweet tea while you read these heart felt stories. I for one will be doing just that. I hope you will join me  this spring  to read my review of  these.  I so look forward  to sharing a visit t. You won’t want to miss Carrie’s coming releases !

Don’t forget your prettiest hankies to catch a stray tear you may find trickling down your cheek, and do come in your finest tea dress ready to take tea and enjoy some strawberry and cream scones ! Any day with  Carrie will be a sunny spring day !

Fields of the Fatherless

By Elaine Marie Cooper

In the early months of 1775, war is brewing in the American colonies. Although frightened, eighteen-year-old Betsy Russell (an ancestor to actor Kurt Russell) of Menotomy Village, Massachusetts, wants to be prepared in case of attack by British troops. Her father, prosperous farmer Jason, is the fourth generation of Russells on this land yet their very rights as British Colonials are being stripped away one by one. Will the King of England take their land as well? Tensions are growing here in the countryside west of Boston and the outbreak of battle seems a certainty. Jason desperately wants to protect his family his wife, children and grandchildren and their future. Betsy makes every attempt to be prepared for the worst. But not even the American militia could have predicted the bloody massacre that was about to occur right on the Russells doorstep. If Betsy loses everything she holds dear, are the rights of all the Colonists endangered?

Fields of the Fatherless is based on a true story.

Get Yours Now !  You can find it here for 99 Cents for Kindle !

Elaine Marie Cooper

My Review

I had never read any of Elaines books , so this was my first ! But it will not be my last that is for sure and for certain. I thoroughly enjoyed the historical accuracy in the book and I am compelled me to delight in reading it to my children for history as we homeschool. I so loved any and all tender moments between characters. Very tastefully written and today morals and edict are much needed. Godly Character and moral value are throughout the book and I am very pleased with all I read therein. I am so glad that I was introduced to Elaine on Colonial Quills with Carrie Fancett Pagals hosting a tea party for her. I am now so longing to read Deer Run Series. Some stories just take your breath away and bring the desire for more good reading from that author and this is one of those stories. You will want to read more of her wonderful works, if you have not done so already. I could not put it down, I had to keep reading. It is inspiring and I believe if more folks read such works, they would see what things should and could be like today !

Linda Finn
Faithful Acres Books

http://www.faithfulacres.net

faithfulacresbooks@gmail.com

I received this wonderful book from the author for my honest review and have received no other compensation from doing so.

Spring Releases from Carrie Turansky !

Are you a Carrie Turansky Fan ? Have you seen her Coming release for April ?

You won't be disappointed ! and if your not one yet, well you will be !

Coming Release April 15th

(ebook and paperback)

Where Two Hearts Meet

by Carrie Turansky

There’s no better place for romance, forgiveness, and new beginnings than the Sweet Something Teashop.

Two Sisters, Two Heartwarming Romance novellas

Tea For Two
Allison Bennett, co-owner of a financially strapped tea shop in Princeton, New Jersey, receives a large anonymous check that saves her business. But she has no idea who sent it. Could it be from Peter Hillinger, the wealthy businessman who owns the shop next door and wants to win Allison’s heart? Or is it from Tyler Lawrence, Allison’s old boyfriend, who returns to town claiming a renewed faith and a changed life. Allison doesn't know whom to trust. Should she follow her head or heart, or is there Someone else who can guide her toward the best path for her future?

Wherever Love Takes Us
After twenty-five years of marriage, Matt and Tessa Malone are struggling to recover financially and rebuild trust following a business failure. Then Matt inherits property in Oregon, and he wants to move the family there to make a fresh start. But Tessa can’t imagine giving up the cozy tea shop she co-owns with her sister, or leaving her friends and family in Princeton. Whose dream will they follow, and how much will it cost their family? Can they resolve their differences and rebuild a love that seems lost?

Now Ladies, I would be marking your calendars for these !  Carrie is a wonderful Author who can weave your hearts right into her romantic tales. Plan on spending your springtime days on the veranda , with a cup of tea or a glass of sweet tea while you read these heart felt stories. I for one will be doing just that. I hope you will join me on this spring  to read my review of  these.  I so look forward  to sharing a visit over at www.faithfulacres.net. You won't want to miss Carrie's coming releases !

Don't forget your prettiest hankies to catch a stray tear you may find trickling down your cheek, and do come in your finest tea dress ready to take tea and enjoy some strawberry and cream scones ! Any day with  Carrie will be a sunny spring day !

Day 10 Balanced Challenge with Tricia Goyer

Get Balanced!
 

March 20: Eight (Chapter Ten)

Today's assignment from Tricia

Read chapter ten and come up with your list of “eight.” Then write down those eight themes on a pretty piece of paper and post it somewhere you’ll see it often (bathroom mirror, refrigerator, bulletin board, etc.). Then take a picture of it and post it on your blog.

Tried to upload my pretty paper , have to share later !

So after reading chapter 10 and thinking and praying on this, here is my Eight Life Themes as I see them Today. I didn't see them while on life's journey, but I have arrived at these 8 !  I loved this assignment, I started it not knowing what I could put on my list. Where had life taken me ?  I started writing my own life story and  I think it will have to be written in more then one book as I have been asked of the Lord to share to help others and to hopefully bring honor to the Lord.  That is the goal !

My Eight Life Themes

1. Don't Let Rape Ruin You !

2. Joy found in Teen Pregnancy !

3. Delight After Divorce !

4. Abused but NOT Abandoned !

5. I am married to MARK, NOT Mental Illness !

6. Home a place of  Harmony and Happiness !

7. Don't let a less than perfect Marriage, Rob your Merry Heart !

8. Facing the Bareness of Menopause: Becoming the Joyful Mother of Grandchildren !

Each one of these things has been dealt with in my life and  I want them to be challenges I overcame, not things that hindered me from living fully !  I have come along this path, sometimes by my own unwise choices, but I know that God can use All Things for my own good and hopefully he can use those things to the good of others as well.

As I write, I will have to remember to come here and share with my readers, those insights and blessings to be found along the way.

~ Linda ~

I'm Moving ! To my own Domain

I'm Moving !!!!!

 

~ That's right, to make life simpler and more productive for me, I am moving to my own domain !

My own Website hosting my blog on it.  If each of you 493 Folks who follow my blog, would hop on over to

www.faithfulacres.net and Sign up to follow me there by email, I would be most appreciative !

I hope you will follow me there. All posts from this blog will be moving over there as well.

After a time I will no longer keep this blog here on wordpress.com

On my new website you will find all my posts, things I love and share with my readers and in the near future a store

of gently loved books and homemade items.

Please come to my new home and lets have a cup of tea and a good visit, right now I am finishing up my posts on The Balanced Challenge with Tricia Goyer.  I have some wonderful books to share with you and I wouldn't want you to miss a one of them this year !

Come on over  !

~Linda~

Get Balanced!
 

 

March 20: Eight (Chapter Ten)

Today’s assignment from Tricia

Read chapter ten and come up with your list of “eight.” Then write down those eight themes on a pretty piece of paper and post it somewhere you’ll see it often (bathroom mirror, refrigerator, bulletin board, etc.). Then take a picture of it and post it on your blog.

Tried to upload my pretty paper , have to share later !

So after reading chapter 10 and thinking and praying on this, here is my Eight Life Themes as I see them Today. I didn’t see them while on life’s journey, but I have arrived at these 8 !  I loved this assignment, I started it not knowing what I could put on my list. Where had life taken me ?  I started writing my own life story and  I think it will have to be written in more then one book as I have been asked of the Lord to share to help others and to hopefully bring honor to the Lord.  That is the goal !

If you would like to read my 8 Life Themes you can read about them here.

~ Linda ~

Wanted for the Children's Book: The Best Dinner I Never Ate

 

 

Wanted: Reviewers, Influences, Author Spots and Radio Spots !

 

 

 

The Best Dinner I never Ate

By Lori Prentice

 

The Best Dinner I Never Ate is a true story about our family’s experiences with housing needy families and individuals in our own home. Over the last three years we have had these people live with us temporarily, and for free, so they can have a place to stay while saving up money for their own housing. These experiences have been teaching our family about what is truly necessary in our lives, and what it looks like to show God’s love to others. It has also taught us how making time for loving strangers and going out of our comfort zone can leave a lasting impact on a life.

One particular homeless guest we recently housed encouraged us to publish our story. So far it has been inspiring many in our local community, but we believe in the power of the ripple effect. We believe this lesson can be far-reaching and spread Christ’s message of love and selflessness beyond our small town.

We are very far from a perfect family – each of us is a work in progress in our own way. Though we have many areas where we look to others for inspiration, this is one example of being willing to reach out to the vulnerable, the strangers, and the forgotten, even when it makes life harder on us. Help us share our message of love and hope.

The Proceeds from the sale of this book are going to Victim Services and to help the homeless.

Are you an Author, Influencer, Reviewer ? Do you have a Website or Blog you post to ?

                                Please get in touch with me about and upcoming Christian book releases.

Up to 50 Reviewers/influencers

Wanted

To Read, Review and host a giveaway of the book on your website or blog.

If you are interested in participating in this  Please send me your Name, Email Address, Mailing Address and the address of your blog or website  in a private email to  faithfulacresbooks@gmail.com  or leave me your information here in a comment and I will get back to you. If approved you will receive a copy of the book to you for your reviewing and a book will be sent to the winner of your blog giveaway by the Author Lori Prentice. We are hoping to have all reviewers lined up by the end of March to do an April Blog Post

https://www.facebook.com/TheBestDinnerINeverAte?ref=stream

http://thebestdinnerineverate.com/

Please feel free to share this post with the buttons below , I do so appreciate it

I will have more books to review in the near future.

Thank You

Blessings

~ Linda ~

Day 9 Balanced Challenge with Tricia Goyer

 

Get Balanced!

March 19: Inspiration and Relaxation (Chapter Nine)

Here was today's assignment from Tricia

Give your mind a rest and a dose of good, old-fashioned inspiration. Carve out some time today to implement one of my tips about finding inspiration and enjoy the feeling of creativity. Then come up with your own list of ways you can find inspiration.

1. Reading Bible.  Daily getting into the Word encourages ! Do so with a great women's study !

2. Pray. Pour your heart out to the Lord !  Pray for others ! Doing so brings much peace.

3. Read good biblically based women's studies. This is an awesome way to start you day or to enjoy just a few spare moments in your day !

4. Follow and Read Godly Women's blogs and websites.  I know this makes me feel wonderful.

5. Take up a creative Hobby. ie. Crocheting, Fiber Arts, Drawing, Quilting, Sewing, Baking , whatever you enjoy.

6. Listen to Uplifting Music. Music feeds the soul if it is the right music and makes you feel happy !

7. Put up inspiring Art Work in your Home. Wall Art, Bible verses. Decorate with little things in each room that you like.

8. Sing, sing and sing some more !  Singing lifts your spirits and creates a happy peaceful feeling.

 

9. Have fellowship with other women who encourage and inspire you ! Attend a womens conference on Joy, Love or whatever !   Like  Just Joy Ministries with Carol McLeod !

10. Take time out to enjoy being you !  Sit and enjoy your favorite drink and just think and relax ! Read your favorite books or do lunch with a friend , even  your Dear Husband to have fun.

 

God can and will restore your JOY and he will inspire you to go on to do great and awesome things ! When we have the Lord Jesus, we can accomplish anything that we seek to do within God's will  for our lives !

Be Blessed

~ Linda ~

 

 

Day 8 Balanced Challenge with Tricia Goyer

Get Balanced!
 

March 18: Make Today Amazing (Chapter Eight)

Today, I have taken your advice Tricia. I spent almost all day in my diningroom.  It sits on the south side of the house and gets all he sun and today it is sunny big time.  I needed sun. It makes me feel so much happier and my desk is out here to work at.  It decorated in light slate blue on bottom and a nice ribbon wallpaper with blue and yellow flowers on it.  I enjoy this room because it has a bright and cheery atmosphere.

I also asked DH if he had any plans !  Girl you should have known that was a dangerous question, At least we are like minded ! Tonight is in house date night ! I wonder if I change the clocks if we can fake the kids out and have some alone time ! LOL   Don't tell me you have never set the clocks ahead to fake your kids out and get them to bed sooner...  If not , see if you can get an extra hour or two of alone time.

I do feel better today and the house has been more peaceful today !

I am thankful for My Salvation, My Family, My Sisters who bless me and so much more.

Today the girls and I looked at a website they wanted to look at and play on.

Today, I helped a Sister with a slight website problem, I am glad she isn't paniced anymore.  I talked to another friend who is thinking about homeschooling and encouraged her.

Twice Today I was told I am an angel and that I bless others,  that is a nice feeling to be able to give to others from the heart and not expect anything in return.

But I have to admit to being allowed by Three Authors today to read , review and influence for them. I always feel good about blessing my Sisters in the Lord who write and my brothers too !

~ Linda~