Devotions from the Garden

Devotions from the Garden by Miriam Drennan is a devotional with garden themes and stunning photographs of nature. I am an avid gardener and I also desire to grow in my faith.  This devotional is a wonderful fusion of inspiration, visual beauty, and spiritual growth.

Each daily devotional has a scripture verse, devotion and a prayer at the end.  The vivid photographs bring a unique twist to the book.  These visuals really do add to the impact of the devotion as you are readying it. 

I can whole-heartedly recommend this devotional to anyone who appreciates God’s creation and sees God in nature.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Paula's Choice Skincare

I’m in my nifty-fifties. Who wouldn’t want to erase some of those fine wrinkles and damage from too make years in the sun? I have recently tried the Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster serum. Just a drop, twice a day, should help minimize those fine wrinkles. It can be mixed with your favorite moisturizer or on its own. I have been applying it every evening around my eyes. I have not had any burning or irritation.  Having the word “Acid” in the name was a bit concerning, but there was no irritation. Now that I know I’m not having any type of bad reaction from it, I plan to add it to my morning routine; applying it before putting on my cream foundation. Here’s to younger looking skin!

Thanks to BuzzAgent I was able to try Paula's Choice skincare for free. My opinion is my own and I was not influenced in any way by BuzzAgent.

Only God Can Make a Kitten

Great children’s books are able to join a sweet story with relatable illustrations. Only God Can Make a Kitten written by Rhonda Gowler Greene and Illustrated by Laura J. Bryant accomplishes both of those things. The simplicity of the idea is based on the Bible verse Genesis 1:31; God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. Reading it will help encourage families to step outside into God’s creation to explore and learn about the beauty of  the world.

This book explores the natural world that surrounds us. As a little boy and his sister explore the world they live in, their Mama teaches them that only God can make a seed, a bird, the rain, a flower, the ocean, a plum, a tree, a stone, a kitten, the snow, a star, and best of all YOU!

The illustrations are sweet and complete. They span the pages with pleasing colors and uplifting images. Family images of adventure and wonder. The pastel  color scheme is pleasing to the eye and calming to the soul.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

The Happy Christiam

The Happy Christian: Ten Ways to be a joyful believer in a gloomy world, by David Murray, has been both a joy and a challenge to read.  The reason I say it has been a “challenge” is because this is a topic that I struggle with; it’s close to home. I am a Christian who desires to be a light in the world, but it can be hard to keep that light burning while bombarded by brokenness in the Media, Our Past, Work, and even the Church.

The Happy Christian shares practical ways to help us to lean more on the optimistic, positive side of the spectrum.  This is not a book about the power of thinking positive or looking at a glass half full.  This book acknowledges that we are bombarded by bad news and real heart ships; but that is not where it ends. Instead, as Christians, we can learn to tap into the hope we find in Christ. There is no room for hopelessness in the heart of a person who has experienced the Grace of God.

If you, as the reader, desire to lighten the dark places in your heart, please be patient with yourself and use this book as a resource to strive to expose that light.

I received this book free from the publisher through the Booklook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Dashing Dish by: Katie Farrell

I love a cookbook that includes delicious recipes along with photos of what the dishes look like. Dashing Dish by Katie Farrell has food that is healthy and full of flavor.  It even includes tips for developing healthy habits when you snack and during special occasions. I like that the recipes are not overly complicated. The estimated time each recipe takes is listed so I can select a quick option if I’m in a hurry or select a longer prep time on the weekend, when I have more time to spend in the kitchen.

This recipe book is divided into categories including Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Side dishes, Snacks and Desserts. Having a healthy snack section is unique in a recipe book. I’m excited about trying some of these snacks instead of relying on junk food. Additionally I like that at the end of each recipe it shows serving size and nutritional information including number of calories, grams of fat, carbohydrates, fiber, sugar, and protein.

To peak your interest, I selected an example of a days’ worth of healthy eating. Start with Cookie Dough Overnight Oatmeal for breakfast, Slow Cooker Chicken Corn Chowder for lunch, followed by a dinner with Apple Bacon Feta Turkey Sliders with a side of Zucchini Tots.  You can’t forget dessert which should be the Strawberry Pretzel Dessert. Simple, delicious, and healthy!

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast, by Kristen Feola, is more than a cookbook. It’s a complete guide to the fast, the focus, and the food. It gives a compelling description on what fasting is and what it isn't. It gave me a deeper insight into the Biblical reason for fasting along with the different types of fasts. The Daniel fast is for anyone who desires a deeper connection with the Lord and is willing to commit to a three-week fast with the result of pursuing a deeper connection with God.

This book is broken down into 3 parts.  The first is about the fast, the second is about the focus, and the last is about the food. I must admit that I’m most excited about the food section. I’m sold on the benefits of fasting, but am intimidated by the practical, day-to-day meal planning.

The food section includes weekly suggested meal plans along with preparation tips. The recipes cover breakfast items, appetizers, snacks, salads, salad dressings, soups, vegetables, and main dishes. There are also a few photos of the food items in the center section of the book.

I’m prayerfully considering participating in the Daniel Fast in the New Year. I know one thing for sure, I will use the recipes included in this book!

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: The Southern Foodie's Guide to the Pig

When is a cookbook a great cookbook? When it not only includes delicious recipes, but also entertains and educates the reader about the ingredients that go into these regional recipes. The Southern Foodie’s Guide to the Pig by Chris Chamberlain does just that. It includes interesting back stories, destination restaurants and insider tips.  On top of that, it’s all about the pig; from snout to tail and it is pure comfort food.

I would like to call myself a good cook who also loves to travel. While traveling, we always like to search out local spots that serve regional foods. This recipe book is two in one; a travel guide and a cook book. There have been so many times when I've eaten at a restaurant and wished I could recreate the dish in my own home kitchen. With this cookbook, it can now be possible.

The book is well designed and eye appealing.  The full page photos of the food are like artwork. It will literally make your mouth water! I especially enjoyed the Restaurant profiles. My daughter recently moved to Nashville, TN so I am looking forward to checking out, first hand, a few of the places mentioned in the book the next time we are there for a visit.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Dr. Scholl's DreamWalk Insoles: Chase away the Meanies

I had some fun testing out Dr. Scholl's DreamWalk insoles.  I created a shoe meanie ... the way my feet feel before wearing Dr. Scholl's DreamWalk insoles.  Try them out for yourself and chase the meanies away!

I participated as a BzzAgent and received this free product as part of the campaign.  I am sharing my own honest opinion.

The Hope Quotient by Ray Johnston

I can’t say enough about The Hope Quotient by Ray Johnston. I absolutely loved this book!  I would call it life changing. There are times in life when you read something and you immediately feel like the words are speaking directly to you. That is how I felt reading this book.  From the very first section called “Read This First”, the author captured my attention. This book has inspired me to work toward a more hopeful existence. 

Part one of the book shares with the reader what hope is and what hope is not.  The most unique aspect of the book is that there is an access code on the book jacket that the reader scratches off. You enter the code on a website and take a HQ assessment.  At the end of the assessment, you are given a personal HQ score. The overall score is further broken down into seven different categories. I found my results to be very accurate; pointing out three areas where I needed help to improve and two areas that I scored quite high and had a solid foundation.

The second section of the book helps the reader learn how to elevate each of the seven different essential life practices that the author refers to as hope factors.  It is a wonderful detailed teaching tool to help the reader begin to make changes and improvements. This is where the real heart of the book lives. 

The third section helps the reader to unleash an attitude of hope in various aspects of his or her life. In marriage, career, family, church, community and even into the world. Our society and many people we all know and love often struggle with depression, worry, fear, anxiety and discouragement.  This book is a bright light; offering a way to dig out of that mindset and work toward a bright, hopeful future. 

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: Along Came You

Along Came You, written by Karona Drummond and illustrated by Estelle Corke, is a delightful children’s board book.  The illustrations are darling and the dialogue is between a mother and a daughter; sharing all the joys that have happened to the mom after her daughter came along. 

Along Came You embraces the changes that happen when we become mothers.  Even dressing up takes on a new meaning.  The story itself is sweet, but I felt like the strength of the book was really in the illustrations.  I am in love with the bright colors that are used, the movement that is portrayed on the pages, and the faces of mom and daughter.  There are so many details illustrated on each page of this book.  While reading, you could also become very interactive in looking for a cat, teddy bear, butterfly, or even a Mr. Potato Head on the page.  Reading out loud can be so much fun!

If I have any one criticism of the book it is just that it is geared only to a little girl; it wouldn’t be engaging for a little boy.  It would be wonderful if the author/illustrator would produce a companion book with a father and his son.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: Goodnight Angels

This children’s book, Goodnight Angels, by Melody Carlson, illustrated by Sophie Allsopp is designed as a board book and it tells a bedtime story.  The illustrations are colorful and have some fun details that help tell the story of a little boy’s bedtime routine.  It follows a little boy around his house while he says goodnight to people and things that surround him.

The story is a prayer to God, thanking Him for the blessings of the day. It is very similar to the book Goodnight Moon. This book is comparable in its size, feel, and cadence to that beloved book.   

The illustrations are very pleasing. They capture a day in the life of a little boy.  It includes images of his family, a playground, a dog, toys, bath time, and being tucked into bed.  It gently steps the reader and listener through a predictable bedtime routine.  It ends with the little boy getting sleepy as he thanks God for his blessings, and says goodnight to the angels who are watching over him.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: Pirates on the Farm

I love reading and reviewing children’s books.  As a mother of two, I’ve spent countless hours reading to my children.  My latest read is Pirates on the Farm written by Denette Fretz and illustrated by Gene Barretta.  I love the idea of using a good story book with the goal of imparting Christian virtues to children.  This book addresses the second greatest commandment, Love your neighbor as yourself.  But what if your neighbors are pirates?  Can you really love someone who lives their life in such a different way?

It’s a fun story that is full of lively characters.  Who doesn’t like a good pirate adventure?  Depending on the age of the child, the vocabulary might be more of a stumbling block than a teachable moment.  The author does include the Seadog Definitions at the back of the book, but words like doubloons, hardtack, landlubber, and salmagundi might actually just confuse the reader and take away from the message.  It makes this book better for the older child, I think the message will be lost on the youngest of readers and read out loud listeners.

The illustrations are whimsical.  They show movement, action, and capture the character’s personalities.  

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: 20 and Something

20 And Something: Have the Time of Your Life (And Figure It All Out Too) is a book written by David H. Kim with Re/Frame by Phylls Tickle.   It’s a pocket sized book that the Barna Group, a trusted analyst of religion and culture, has produced.  The series is called FRAMES.  The topics of each FRAME is varied, but I selected this title for selfish reasons; I am a parent to two 20 somethings, better known as Millennials.  I have to be honest; there are times that I just don’t get where they are coming from.  I need help figuring out how they tick and why they approach life the way they do and why so many are living in their parent’s basements?  This quick read did shed some light and provide some hope for a bright future.

Every generation struggles with the differences between generations. That is nothing new. It doesn't have to be a stumbling block.  It doesn't have to be negative or cause discouragement.  All we really need is a chance to get to know what our differences are so we can begin to relate on a positive level. 

Sure, we know this generation has had access to the world through technology, has been impacted by the reality of terrorism at home and abroad. But what we are just beginning to unravel is the mystery of how these things really shape how they view adulthood, marriage, career, and organized religion.  When my 22-year-old says to me “YOLO … you only live once” when I am stressing over something, it makes me pause and think how much her generation really does want to make the most of this life that they have.

This FRAME gave me a clear lense to look through; one without judgment but filled with facts.  Having read it I can say I better understand by own 20 somethings.  I celebrate our differences and see a bright future.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Let There Be Light By: Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Illustrated by Nancy Tillman

God is good and all that He has made is good.  Let me tell you that this book, Let There Be Light, written by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Illustrated by Nancy Tillman is certainly good.  The Creation story has been told many times in many ways, but never with such joy, acceptance, and vibrant visuals.

The story line is obvious; a retelling of the Biblical account of the Creation of the world and all that is in it.  The descriptive words used by Desmond Tutu place us in a new world that is wondrous, dazzling, glorious, and joyous.  I love his word choice when he says, “And on the seventh day, God laughed, and rested, and enjoyed his glorious creation.”  What a wonderful image of a God who is well pleased with His Creation.

Now don’t get me started on these illustrations.  Each page is a work of art.  Nancy Tillman captures the beauty and newness of the world and its inhabitants.  The images are bright and filled with color and light. Even the animals look like they are smiling.  There is also an overriding theme of diversity of cultures.  I was delighted by this book and honored to read both its words and images.   

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: Country Faith

Country Faith: 56 reflections from Country Music Stars is a wonderful celebration of faith and country music.  It’s a devotional packaged in an eye catching way.  It’s filled with beautiful photographs of country music’s biggest and newest stars.  I love the look of the book.  It is visually very appealing, artistic and draws you in. The photographs are creatively “framed” and look ready to hang on a wall or place on the mantel of a fireplace. 

Each country star selects a favorite Bible verse and shares how it is meaningful to them.  It is refreshing to hear successful musicians who are willing to share their faith.  These devotions are inspiring and uplifting.  In a world where we ache for good role models, this book points us in the right direction.

This devotional would be a great gift to give.  I plan to purchase another copy to give to my daughter.  She is a college senior who not only loves country music but will also be moving to Nashville this year to start her career in the field of accounting.  I hope this book inspires her to live out her faith. 

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Book Review: Sweet Olive

Sweet Olive, by Judy Chrisie, is a story that showcases the lifestyle of a quaint town in Louisiana.  The author does a wonderful job developing the characters in this book.  I had the privilege of reading it while away on a vacation in Hawaii.  I began reading it on the airplane during the long flight and then picked it up pool side, anxious to find out how it would all turn out for the people I was becoming attached to.

Sweet Olive is a small town community in Louisiana that is in the midst of a controversy among the residents around the selling of their mineral rights to an oil company.  The book gives the reader a peek into this “artsy” community that is filled with good folk who care about their art, their neighbors, and even come to love and appreciate this outsider who brings disorder into their orderly world.

If you, as the reader, live a hectic lifestyle or feel the rush of a big city, you will enjoy escaping in the pages of this book.  The pace of the story, as it unfolds, is refreshing.  The characters are diverse and you will find yourself hoping for a positive outcome for all that you meet.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Kashi Hummus Crisps

I recently had the opportunity to try out a new product by Kashi: Sea Salt & Olive Oil Hummus Crisps.  They are delicious!  They have just the right amount of crunch and are loaded with flavor.  The Sea Salt & Olive Oil flavor had a good balance of flavor and saltiness.  The crisps can stand alone, no need to use dips.  Finally a snack with "grown up" flavors.  I can't wait to try Sundried Tomato Basil & Feta and the Caramelized Onion. These crisps are also a healthier snack choice.  No more boring, greasy potato chips for me.  I love how these stayed together in the bag; very few broken crisps. 

I participated as a BzzAgent and received this free product as part of the campaign.  I am sharing my own honest opinion.

Book Review: Encouragement for Today

Encouragement for Today by Renee Swope, Lysa Terkeurst,  Samantha Evilsizer and the Proverbs 31 Team has been a great way to begin my day.  I agree with the subtitle … these are devotions for everyday living.   I enjoy starting my day with a cup of tea, my Bible, and a devotion before heading off to work to face the day. Not all devotionals are created equal.  Some can be too long, or too academic, or not relatable.  In the case of Encouragement for Today, I found each devotion to be just about the right length, plus I could relate to the topics.   

Each daily devotion ends with a challenge to remember, reflect, and respond.  It also lists power verses for those readers who want to delve more deeply into the devotional text as time or interest allows. Since it includes these additional power verses, I think this devotional could also being used for a more in depth Bible study. You can expand the way it's used or simply use it for a quick read as you head out the door.  A great way to customize it day to day.

I also enjoy the fact that different writers contribute to the devotional; it adds a variety of styles that I find refreshing.  In today’s world where there are so many devotional books to choose from, I would definitely place this one near the top of the list.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Sherlock Holmes and the Needle's Eye by: Len Bailey

Sherlock Holmes and the Needle’s Eye by Len Bailey was not what I had hoped for. The idea of Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes solving Bible based mysteries is a great concept.  I was hoping to be able to learn Biblical truths while enjoying a book filled with mystery and intrigue. Unfortunately, I found the book awkward, the time travel disjointed, and the choice of Biblical stories obscure. 

The end of the book has study questions; perhaps that would appeal to some readers. I just don't think there was enough depth of content to challenge the reader. 

 

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Simply Delicious Amish Cooking by: Sherry Gore

Many of us are intrigued by the simple lifestyle of the Amish.  In this hectic life we lead, there seems to be a movement to slow down, spend time with family, and maybe even hone those home cooking skills. Simply Delicious Amish Cooking by Sherry Gore is a good start.

The pleasantly illustrated cookbook is filled with some delicious creations that can be made with simple ingredients, stuff you already have in your pantry. As most cook books, it’s divided by basic categories like breads, soups, salads, side dishes, seafood, pies, and even a category called “This and That”.

There are some black and white photos that begin each section and two small sections of color photos of the finished products.  The “Final Exam Brownies” look especially gooey.  Intermixed throughout the cookbook are tips and “diary like” journal entries.  These are meant to give the reader a peek into the life of those living in an Amish Mennonite community in Florida.  Although that added a bit of charm, I did not feel it really enhanced the overall enjoyment of the cookbook.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.