Chat with Vera

"A is for Adam-the Gospel from Genesis" by Ken & Mally Ham

2012-01-27T16:36:00.000-05:00

Christian parents need to build a library for their children complete with secular stories but also books that teach the child of God, Christ, and eternity. Ken Ham has certainly been an advocate of strong, Christian literature that teaches the truth in Genesis and the truth in our Bible.

I received a beautiful, yet complete with delightful illustrations, flip book that takes the parent and child through the alphabet beginning with "A is for Adam." The book has cute rhyme that helps to grab his/her attention and engage the mind for solid memory of the information. Example:

J is for Jovial, as Satan must have been,
The Devil was gleeful with all he had seen.
He was able to trick poor Eve with a lie,
"Obey all my words, and you'll surely not die."

and then after that dire episode.....

M is for Moan, what a mess sin did make,
Thorns, thistles and death, and cursed ground for man's sake.
God had to judge sin. He's so holy and pure,
But God is so good, He provided a cure.

For the Parent: Each page has another correlated page in the back of the book with Overview, Directed Discussion, Core Truth Takeaway, and Quick Review to aid in the instruction of the child.

I highly recommend this book for homeschools, Christian Schools, and private homes.

Bio: Ken Ham is the founder and executive director of Answers in Genesis in the USA and one of the most sought-after Christian speakers in North America. Ken is the author or co-author of many books, including The Lie: Evolution, The Genesis Solution, Genesis and the Decay of the Nations, What Really Happened to the Dinosaurs?, A is for Adam, D is for Dinosaur, Creation Evangelism for the New Millennium (now called Why Won't They Listen?), and One Blood: The Biblical Answer to Racism. He is heard daily on the radio program, “Answers...with Ken Ham,” on more than 300 stations worldwide. Ken is also featured in various videos including the series, “Answers in Genesis with Dr. Gary Parker,” and the 12-part series of 28-minute videos, “Answers...with Ken Ham.” Ken's teaching is clear, true to the Bible, engaging, and challenging. Many have found salvation and others have been encouraged and equipped to reach others with the gospel through Ken's ministry.

I received a complimentary review copy of "A is for Adam" from New Leaf Publishing Group for Master Books and was not required to render a favorable review.

National Punch the Clock Day

2012-01-27T09:14:00.001-05:00

I was just published as a guest blogger on SheSpeaks (see icon button in my sidebar). Here is a link to the post: National Punch the Clock Day

What do you think of days such as "National Punch the Clock Day"? Also, comment on my "take" on the subject in today's economy.

Marriage for Meghan by Mary Ellis: Book Review

2012-01-26T21:19:00.001-05:00

I discovered author Mary Ellis's work this past Fall and realized that she writes a very interesting fictional account of life in the Old Order Amish community. Below are the links for the first two books I read and reviewed by Ms. Ellis. I just completed a third read of her's, A Marriage for Meghan.

Meghan is a petite 19 year old Amish young lady that aspires to become a teacher in the district's one-room Amish school house. But Meghan has to overcome her past reputation as a prankster and flighty child and teen before she can be entrusted with this responsibility by the sober Bishop (her father) and other leaders of the community.

Factor into the story a young suitor that Meghan has known all her life and who really doesn't want to wait around while she achieves her dream. We learn that the Englischer world is not alone in heartbreak.

However, evil enters into this calm, serene world of mild-mannered families serving God in the form of hate crimes, vandalism, and arson bringing perplexity and anxiety to the heart and mind of those affected by it. Undesired by the Bishop, local law enforcement arrives and a FBI Special Agent is sent to solve the problem.

I recommend this as an excellent read that doesn't tarnish the mind and spirit of the reader.

Publisher:	Harvest House Publishers, 2011
ISBN:	0736930108, 978073693010

I received Marriage for Meghan directly from the author as a donation for our school's library. I reviewed it as a courtesy for her donation and was not required to write a positive review.

Chat with Vera: "Never Far From Home" by Mary Ellis: Book Review

http://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/

Chat with Vera: Abigail's New Hope by Mary Ellis: Book Review

"The Joy of Books" - What a delightful video

2012-01-25T17:22:00.001-05:00

WINNER: Purex & Jockey Giveaway

2012-01-25T15:50:00.003-05:00

#16 has been chosen using random.org as the winner of the Purex & Jockey giveaway. Liz Has A Blog said..."Visited Purex Crystals Fabric softener website. Tropical Splash is the fragrance that most appeals to me."

Liz has until Friday, January 27 at Noon to claim her prize.

WINNER: Purex UltraPacks Giveaway

2012-01-25T15:47:00.000-05:00

WINNER: #17 in the Purex UltraPacks giveaway is "Lois". She has been notified and has until Friday, January 27 at Noon to claim her prize. Random.org was used to choose the winner.

LÄRABAR Review and Giveaway

2012-01-25T15:19:00.001-05:00

LÄRABAR has graciously sent me a box with a sampling of 4 bars. I am telling you folks, they are delicious.

My "most favorite" (though it was awfully hard to choose which was my most favorite) was the Pecan Pie. Now we know that the traditional version of pecan pie is indulgent, but the LÄRABAR Pecan Pie likes to break the rules. It is made up of only 3 ingredients, this food is unafraid to be delicious and wholesome at the same time. It also contains a 1/2 serving of fruit. Rebellious? Definitely.

What is unique about LÄRABAR? LÄRABAR is a delicious blend of unsweetened fruits, nuts and spices. Made from whole food, each flavor contains no more than nine ingredients. Pure and simple, just as nature intended.
GLUTEN FREE/CELIACS LÄRABAR is Gluten Free. They have no gluten-containing ingredients, and we have manufacturing controls in place to ensure that there are no cross-contact concerns. We also periodically verify our practices using Gliadin gluten testing.

What are those 3 ingredients that make up this chewy, delicious treat? Well, there are pecans. Is that a surprise? There are almonds. Now that might seem a surprise, but chopped and ground almonds make some good stuff. Then #3 ingredient is dates. These are mushed, and ground, and mixed with the chopped nuts to form an absolutely delicious nutritious treat.

GIVEAWAY: LÄRABAR has graciously provided the opportunity for my readers to receive a free box of 6 bars. Simply leave comment as directed below (along with your contact email - cryptic, of course, such as...... snacking.sam @ yahoo [dot] com). Giveaway closes at January 31m 12:00Noon EST and the winner will be selected using random.org.

Entry: Visit http://Larabar.com and select your top pick in their products. Leave a comment with your choice here on Chat With Vera.
Entry: Visit http://Larabar.com and tell me one thing that makes Larabar a good choice for you to use. Leave a comment here.
Entry: Leave a comment on one of my book reviews.
Entry: Tweet this giveaway (use @GG_Survey in your tweet) (repeat daily if you wish)

Please note: Nothing is mandatory except that to enter, you must leave a comment. The more comments you leave, the more opportunity you have to win the box of 6 Pecan Pie bars.

I was provided a box of 4 sample bars to sample and review. The giveaway is provided by LÄRABAR directly to one of my readers which will be chosen at random. I was not required to write a positive review. All comments and opinions are my own.

Spitzer Hafen by Randall Franklin: Book Review

2012-01-24T22:21:00.000-05:00

I was excited to receive Spitzer Hafen to read and review from the publisher. It is in the category of Christian Suspense and the publisher says it is "Christian fiction for thinkers."

However, I had difficulty reading and following the storyline; and this was in part because it begins laying the ground work for the main story by introducing a plethora of characters that I found not fully developed, lacking in depth or dimension, unsavory, and unworthy of Christian reading. The degree of crimes described such as murder, lying, exploitation, deception, etc. was intense and made this reader uncomfortable to the extent that I did not finish this book.

The storyline involves assassins that are on the hire by a leader who wants to rid America of Christianity. However, a "religious" group is already fully ramped up to do this by perverting Christianity with apostate doctrine. There are, however, a couple of missionaries who are hosting a small radio station. Also, the book's enemies of Christianity are hard at work trying to rid the world of these missionaries.

The author, Randall Franklin, deserves an A+ for length and a nice book. It just simply is not one I can recommend, though. Mr. Franklin does brings a lot to the table in the line of life experiences that enable him to write realistically. Mr. Franklin is the author of several books which may be found at http://www.mikvelk.com/estore.html.

Publisher: Mikvelk Publishing, LLC ISBN-13: 978-1466212145

BookCrash and Mikvelk Publishing, LLC provided a complimentary copy of Spitzer Hafen in exchange for an unbiased review. I was not encouraged or required to write a positive review.

What you learned as a kindergartener can help you as a politician

2012-01-20T00:08:00.002-05:00

If you really stop and think about life in general, you learned some pretty good rules in kindergarten that will help govern you through all of these "life in general" moments.

I wish our politicians and those aspiring for the highest office and highest honor our country has to offer would remember some of the rules they learned in kindergarten. You see they learned most of what they need there and would do well to study them again.

For example:

Play fair. Don't knock folks down either verbally or physically.
Don't hit people. This one is good! Hitting folks below the belt physically, emotionally, verbally, or mentally is just plain wrong.
Clean up your own mess. You know the old saying, "You're responsible for your own actions." That means if you make a mess it's yours to own and yours to clean up.
Don't take things that aren't yours. That means you don't take another man's wife or another woman who isn't your wife. You don't take someone's reputation and run it in the ground.
Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody. Yes. That means when you say something "hurtful" you say you're sorry. Better yet, don't say it.
Wash your hands before you eat. Clean hands and a clean heart are always well beloved.
Flush. Sanitize everything you can. Flush dirty words, dirty deeds, and everything dirty down the drain. Filth corrupts.
When you go out in the world, watch out for traffic, hold hands and stick together. It's a big world out there. You need to watch out that you don't get run over. So hold hands and stick together with friends for security. That goes nationally as well as individually.
And remember that one of the first words you learned to read was - LOOK. Don't forget to look around you in awe and wonder at the wonderful World God has created for us to inhabit.

"Beyond the Farthest Star" by Bodie & Brock Thoene: Book Review

2012-01-18T17:37:00.000-05:00

The authors have written an entirely different type of book with Beyond the Farthest Star from their usual reads. Their historical novels - no matter the timeline - are always wonderful reads. This new book deals with characters who are flawed, deceptive, and evil. The meanness of some of the characters literally makes my skin crawl. I am not speaking of demons and dragons or supernatural. I am referring to the downright meanness of the human nature of fallen men.

The book opens with the family in Beyond the Farthest Star resettling in a small town in Texas. The father is a preacher who began his career preaching as a young boy. The daughter (an only child) is plagued by some troubling emotional or mental condition for which she in medicated. Mom has issues and secrets and she loses herself in flamboyant romance novels. They carry secrets, each of them.

Into the mixture, we have a corrupt senator and a battle of church and state. Evil gets an opportunity to rear it's head here, too.

Supporting cast members include teens exuding peer pressure and cliques. Rock music in garages, and drunken fathers manhandling their sons.

We also find spiritual truth prevailing, but it seems to be slow in coming. Revelation of secrets and the impact they have on individuals leaves the reader reeling.

Again, the Thoenes have written a very good book. The have taken the screen play of Andrew Librizzi and novelized it. The storyline is not one I would prefer, but it is good and, sadly, probably a very real reflection on today's world.
I received a complimentary copy of Beyond the Farthest Star from Zondervan via NetGalley for review and am under no obligation to provide a positive review.

"Love Blooms in Winter" by Lori Copeland: Book Review

2012-01-15T21:07:00.000-05:00

Lori Copeland's newest book, "Love Blooms in Winter" was released January 2012. Set in 1892 - this is the first in the Dakota Diaries series of books.

Set in North Dakota during the Winter, the story begins with the female lead, Mae, working as postmistress in the small town's general store. She is a young single lady responsible for the care of her mentally challenged young brother.

Across the street from where Mae and Jeremy live is the home of Pauline, a very elderly lady who has no family and encroaching dementia. Mae being a kind, caring, Christian young lady has undertaken the care of Pauline; but she is growing desperate knowing that Pauline needs the care of real family. The problem is, Pauline can't recall having any "kin."

The storyline develops and the male lead, Tom, enters the scene. There are hysterically funny moments and distinct personalities that will leave you chuckling or with a warm-fuzzy feeling.

This is an easy, relaxing read and the author, Lori Copeland, captures the personality and characterization of the townspeople. The story is woven with bits and pieces of early Americana and the life and hardships endured during the early settlement of the Dakotas.

Lori Copeland has written well over 40 books and brings to the table pleasant reads that are woven with the threads of Christianity. I highly recommend her books.

ISBN: 978-0-7369-3019-2

Harvest House Publishers provided a complimentary copy of Love Blooms in Winter by Lori Copeland for my review. I was not required to post a positive review.

Winner: Purex Triple Action bottled Laundry Detergent Coupon Giveaway

2012-01-15T17:38:00.002-05:00

Amanda, comment #28, is the winner. She says, "Grease is the hardest stain to get out." Amanda will have until Tuesday, January 15 at 5:00 p.m. EST to respond to an email I will send her claiming her prize by providing her full name and mailing address. Coupons will be sent as quickly as Purex can get them to me.

The other winner is..... comment #3, clcarpen and she says, "I would love to try this!"

Winners will have until Tuesday, January 15 at 5:00 p.m. EST to respond to an email I will send her claiming her prize by providing her full name and mailing address. Coupons will be sent as quickly as Purex can get them to me.

Joshua Covenant by Diane and David Munson: Book Review

2012-01-13T18:00:00.005-05:00

In their life "before writing Christian suspense fiction," David was an NCIS Special Agent, and an undercover DEA Special Agent and Diane was a Federal prosecutor. But they "retired" from federal life in the fast lane to suspense novels that combine their exciting cases into factional fiction. They change the names and places. Visit their website to learn more about their writing and the 6 thrillers to their credit. www.DianeAndDavidMunson.com.

Their newest release, The Joshua Covenant, takes you on a fast paced ride with CIA agent Bo Rider who is "under cover" as a State official stationed with the American Embassy in Israel. His purpose in doing this is to uncover a mole.

Danger. Espionage. Bombs. Past family history and current entanglements. His loyalty to his country challenged and his identity in question. Sinister forces unleashed internationally. It reads like startling headlines.

You won't find questionable behavior or language in this book. The book is written to a Christian audience but by doing so loses none of its excitement and power. All audiences will enjoy this book: mature teens, young adults, men or women, Christian or non-believer. The storyline is enthralling.

Author Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pP20D0BOMg,
Website: www.DianeAndDavidMunson.com
Two Ex-Feds News Wrap Blog: www.DianeAndDavidMunson.com/blog,
Author FaceBook Page,

Publisher: Micah House Media, LCC, Grand Rapids, Mich.

ISBN: 978-0-9835590-0-9

I received a complimentary copy of The Joshua Covenant from the authors, Diane and David Munson. I was not required to post a positive review.

The Donkey That No One Could Ride: Children's Bible Story - Book Review

2012-01-12T23:17:00.002-05:00

You will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden.

This beautiful children's story book in lovely rhyme is a loosely told version of the Biblical account of the donkey that was chosen to be the one on which our Savior, Jesus Christ, would ride into Jerusalem the Sunday prior to his death. (Found in Luke 19:28-38)

Anthony DeStefano, author, and Richard Cowdrey, illustrator, have worked together to bring a lovely version of this lowly beast who feels no worth but who is chosen to be the one to carry or Lord.

He was tied to a post on a small dusty road
And left all alone while his tears overflowed,
Left all alone and wondering why
He was born to be weak, and born to be shy,
And born to be frightened,
And born to cry.

Although this little book is focused on the account of the donkey being chosen to carry our Lord, there is also an underlying theme. It is that our Lord sees worth in each and every one of us and can use us for His purposes.

"My help is enough;
It's all that you need,
It's all you require in the life to succeed."

Children will delight to have this read to them repeatedly and will also be enchanted by the good use of rhyme to tell the story. Cadence and rhyme are beautifully done by Anthony DeStefano.

Publisher: Harvest House Expected Publication Release: February 1, 2012
ISBN: 9780736948517

I was provided a complimentary copy of "The Donkey That No One Could Ride" by Harvest House Publishers in order to provide a review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review.

CLOSED: Purex UltraPacks Laundry Detergent Review & Coupon Giveaway

2012-01-12T17:13:00.002-05:00

Purex is on a roll with new, wonderful products. They recently introduced the Triple Action line of laundry detergent. In this line they will have a full line of their products featuring the Triple Action "bright-White-Clean" ability to clean your laundry. In addition to the bottled laundry detergent with which we are all so familiar, they are coming out with yet another line - this time it is the Triple Action PurexUltraPacks laundry detergent.

Each pack is pre-measured with Purex's new Triple Action liquid formula (a powerful 2X concentrated liquid detergent), and it is safe for regular and HE washers. Use in hot, warm, or cold water!

You just add one of the little blue packs to your wash and then your clothes. If your clothes are really dirty or you have a super large load, use 2 packs. Easy, non-messy, and low sudsing formula so your wash rinses great and you won't hurt your washing machine with too many suds like some products.

I received the Mountain Breeze to try out and I like the slight fragrance. Not overbearing at all! They also have it in Free & Clear which is super for those with skin sensitivities or who need or desire to avoid added perfumes or dyes.

Starting in the middle of February 2012 you can visit FreeSamplePurex.com and request a FREE SAMPLE.

Purex Insiders sent a bag of the new Purex UltraPacks for me to review. I was already in love with the packs of dish washer detergent I use (another brand) so I was looking forward to seeing if these UltraPacks would really clean the clothes. I knew I would love the ease of using the packs.

GIVEAWAY- 3 people will win a coupon for a free pack of Purex UltraPacks: Purex is making available a coupon for 1 FREE BAG OF PUREX ULTRA PACKS for 3 of my readers. Winners will be chosen using random.org. To enter (you must leave your name (or "handle") and email - but do be cryptic with the emails (example: snoopydog @ yahoo [dot] com)

Mandatory: Leave a comment stating what you think about the new Purex Ultra Packs.
Extra: Leave a comment about your worst stain or dirt to remove from laundry
Extra: Tweet (once a day if you like) and leave a comment here
Extra: Share on Facebook (once a day if you like) and leave a comment

GIVEAWAY DATES: Opens Thursday, January 12 and ends January 24 at 12 Noon EST. Open in US only. Winner has 48 hours to claim prize coupon.

Purex provided a free sample of their UltraPacks laundry detergent so I could write a review. However, all of the opinions expressed here are my own.

Ranking my book reviews and contests

2012-01-11T23:34:00.001-05:00

Anyone who reads and ranks my review of books I review for Blogging for Books or WaterBrookMultnomah.com will automatically be entered in a drawing to win a free copy of the book that I reviewed from a random drawing held by WaterBrookMultnomah.com. Winners will be notified by email if one of my blog readers is chosen as a winner. Blogging for Books & WaterBrookMultnomah.com will ship the books out to winners.

So this is good news. You see, when you rank my reviews it helps me receive more books to review and you just might end up winning a book.

CLOSED: Jockey Performance Sports Wear and Purex Crystals Giveaway

2012-01-09T15:01:00.019-05:00

As a Purex Insider I have again been given the opportunity to share with my readers a great Purex product and also the Jockey brand. Purex send me a package that contained Purex Crystals (yellow bottle) and a Jockey sports bra. They challenged me to use the sports bra and experience the softness of the fabric as it was originally and then to wash it. Continue to wear it and wash it and use the Purex Crystals to determine the effect repeated wearing and washing has on the fabric and to see how using Purex Crystals helped the fabric to retain its softness.

Well, folks I'm not a "sports wear" sort of Southern Lady but I have a daughter who definitely wears athletic wear clothing and she was really delighted to be my co-counsel in this bit of detective work. Here are some of her impressions:

The Jockey sports bra wears wonderfully. Soft fabric and great fit.
The fabric after washing retains its softness and great support. No residue from the Purex Crystals is left on the fabric. Just softness and gentle fragrance.
Both products are definite "go-to" products that do the job intended and do it well.

Personally, I'm enjoying the Purex Crystals in my regular wash as well. I find that though there is not a lot of fragrance left on the fabrics, when my wash cloths are wet (picture you're washing your face), I definitely get a new, better sensory experience that is delightful. I say this is a keeper product.

Did you know that Purex Crystals are a more natural way to freshen your clothes for weeks. Purex Crystals are 92% natural crystals that go into the washer at the start of the wash. Purex Crystals DO NOT contain oil, so it can safely be used on all laundry including: towels, athletic wear, children's sleepwear, and eveything else!

Now let's talk about this Jockey Tech Terry Performance Sports Bra. It is: moisture-wicking, has a convenient key pocket and a reflective logo at the back, has breathable mesh panels, and a soft bottom band for comfortable support.

Did you know that normally you should not use a fabric softener on performance sportswear because the oil content prevents the wicking process? Well, that's why everyone is so excited about 2012 Purex Crystals.

GIVEAWAY: Purex Insiders and Jockey Brand is offering my readers here on Chat With Vera the opportunity to receive a package containing one of these fantastic Jockey Tech Terry Performance Sports Bras ($28 value) and a bottle of Purex Crystals. One winner will be chosen using random.org for selection. There are simple entry rules:

Mandatory: Visit Purex.com/Jockey and register to receive your own unique 20% off Jockey discount code. This code is good online and at any Jockey outlet store. Leave a comment here Chat With Vera that you have done so and also your email contact info such as: happyJane @ yahoo [dot] com (this format is a bit safer).
Extra entry: Visit Purex Crystals fabric softener website and tell me what fragrance most appeals to you. Did you know it carries the "Good Housekeeping" seal? Also, while at this spot online, enter the Crystals contest. :) Leave a comment here on Chat With Vera telling me you have done this and also your email contact info such as: happyJane @ yahoo [dot] com (this format is a bit safer).
Extra entry: Leave a comment telling me why Purex Crystals appeals to you instead of the regular fabric softners and also your email contact info such as: happyJane @ yahoo [dot] com (this format is a bit safer).
Extra entry: "Follow" via email, Google Friends, or NetworkedBlogs and leave a comment here saying you have done so.
Extra entries: You can return any day and leave a comment with your "email". The more you enter, the great opportunity you have to win the Jockey and Purex prizes.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS: Leave "entry comments" as directed above. Giveaway ends - January 25 12:00 Noon EST. Prize winner must respond within 48 hours. Open only to USA residents.

Jockey and Purex provided free samples of their products so I could review them.

However, all of the opinions expressed here are my own.

Steer clear of coupon fraud - it's been said before, let's say it again....

2012-01-07T13:14:00.001-05:00

Print legitimate coupons by clicking here

I was just reading the January 20, 2012 issue of All You magazine that I purchased from WalMart. You know this as the handy magazine with LOTS of coupons in it. You can also find some really good information in it as well. I was impressed with the article "Make smart coupon choices" on page 26 of this issue. I thought, "It's been said before, but let's say it again" and decided to share some of the points with you. The article points out that the TV show on extreme couponing has spotlighted use of coupon tactics are are fine but other uses that are downright fraudulent.

DON'T scan, copy or print more than the allotted number of printable coupons a website allows
DON'T decode bar codes (a practice by which shoppers use a coupon to buy entirely different product). Just because you can scan a coupon doesn't mean it's legal to do so.
DON'T use expired coupons unless the store has stated that it is willing to accept them.
DON'T buy coupons. Most coupons printed in the United States include a clause that makes them void if transferred - plus, you might be unintentionally purchasing stolen property or counterfeit coupons, especially if you use an unknown clipping service on a website such as eBay.

DO read the fine print. Make sure you follow the terms and conditions printed on a coupon. Understand these common restrictions:

Coupons may not be transferred. You can not trade, buy or sell this coupon.

Limit one per household. You may not go to the store with your husband and use identical coupons in separate transactions.

Limit four per transaction by a household in a 24-hour period. If the cashier notices this clause, you might have to return to the store on another day to cash in on more than four deals.

DND (do not double). Some store managers choose to make an exception; it's up to them.

So stay within legal limits and enjoy your opportunity to save when you shop by using coupons in the way they were intended. Also, don't forget that you can use them on "sale" items and promotions. This way you increase your savings.

Much appreciation to All You Magazine for this article in the January 20,, 2012 issue (page 26). No intent to infringe on their copyright is intended. I just wanted to share and emphasize this great and much needed information with my readers. The full article is available in the magazine.

Living on the colorful side of the plate

2012-01-05T16:31:00.001-05:00

I think we all know and realize that we all need to live our lives a bit more on the healthy side. You know...... less sugar, more fruit - less cookies and cake, more veggies - less living dangerously, more living with an eye toward safety and health. Well, I saw this picture online today and it absolutely made me want to start nibbling. So take a look and salivate with me for some delicious "good-for-you" eats.

Now isn't that one of the most beautiful array of goodies you've seen recently? What is your favorite? Take a pick of one of each color. Indulge yourself. Go whole veggie!

Good Housekeeping's list of top food trends of 2011 - click here

TYNDALE: The Man Who Gave God An English Voice by David Teems: Book Review

2011-12-30T10:38:00.001-05:00

Meet William Tyndale, a contemporary of Martin Luther, and Thomas Moore. David Teems presents a thorough history of the life and work of William Tyndale and how he was persecuted because he wished to create a Bible in the language of the people of his time and place - the English. Previous to this time (by two centuries) Wycliff, translated the Bible into English. Wycliff's English Bible did, indeed, impact the translation work done by Tyndale. Tyndale's work was, however, translated from the original Greek language. The author of this biography of Tyndale, David Teems references only slightly Wycliff's translation in this book.

The Catholic Church did not allow translations they did not endorse or create and persecuted anyone involved in such activity. They certainly did not want the Bible placed in the hands of people other than clergy. If you are at all familiar with the period of history dealing with the Reformation, the Renaissance, and the controlling power that the Catholic Church held over all social levels during that period, you already have a grasp of the difficulties facing Tyndale. However, Tyndale desired to see the Scriptures in his own language for his own people. Therefore, he endured hardship, banishment, peril, and censorship all causing him to move from his homeland. Eventually his choice to bring God's Word to the English in their own language cost him his life.

"Lord! Open the King of England's eyes"
were his last spoken words.

So you ask, just what is Tyndale's legacy? We don't hear a lot about the Tyndale translation. It gets about as much mention historically as Wycliff's and other Biblical translation works. However, the beautiful language in the Bible - the King James Bible - has it's "first appearance, or first mention" in the Tyndale Bible. These include the beautifully phrased wording given to us by the workmanship and pen of William Tyndale.

I found David Teem's biography of Tyndale interesting yet difficult to read. It is not a casual read. Teems examines Tyndale's work paralleling it with works of more modern writers such as Thomas Wolfe. I find this inappropriate because we are dealing with vastly differing types of writing and periods in which these literary giants wrote. Tyndale's "style" and literary genius of expression are or should be directly attributable to the work that he was accomplishing because he was translating directly from the original languages into his own and his work was of a "holy" nature and not that of the secular world.

We in Christendom have much for which to be grateful because of the writings of William Tyndale as well as his beautiful translation of Scripture - Old and New Testaments.

Behold the lamb of God
I am the way, the truth, and the life
In my father's house are many mansions
For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory
Seek, and ye shall find
With God all things are possible
In him we live, move, and have our being
Be not weary in well doing
Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith
Behold, I stand at the door and knock
Let not your hearts be troubled
The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light
Fight the good fight
(These phrases made their first appearance in translations
of the Scriptures by Tyndale. pg. xx Prologue, Tyndale)

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for a review. I was not required to render a positive review. Opinions expressed are my own.

NOTE: There are short bio-histories of William Tyndale online. The following link substantiates David Teem's disclosure and collaboration that William Tyndale's New Testament was translated from the original Greek and not from the works of Wycliffe and Luther. http://www.greatsite.com/timeline-english-bible-history/william-tyndale.html English Bible History-William Tyndale

"Long Trail Home" by Vickie McDonough: Book Review (A Morgan Family Series - Texas Trails)

2011-12-26T21:48:00.001-05:00

Third in a series of Texas Trails stories of the early days in the State of Texas, "Long Trail Home" is the story of Riley Morgan returning from the War Between the States to his home only to find it devastated by an Indian raid and his family all dead and buried. Enter the scene a lovely blind young lady working in a home for blind children.

The story-line deals with the desperation of a young destitute and abandoned girl who finds what she needs in the home of a kind lady who schools and tends to the needs of a house full of blind children. The story-line also deals with the bitterness of a young man who has gone through the horrors of war only to come home to complete loss - family, home, and fiance.

The redemption of souls is always a beautiful story and in this book it takes on the beauty of redeeming grace and the grace of forgiveness.

Series connectivity: In Long Trail Home, book 3, Riley Morgan is a nephew of Jud Morgan and Billie Morgan from books 1 and 2 of the Texas Trails Series. Each of these books has a different author and yet the flow of the story or stories and styles merge so it would seem as though one author was writing. Character development is great in each of the books. Three more books in this series are on the horizon for 2012 release.

Author: Vickie McDonough - ISBN: 978-0-8024-0585-2

Publisher: Moody Publishers - Publish date: October, 2011

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes by RiverNorthFiction, Moody Publishers. I was under no obligation to render a positive review and all comments are my own opinion.

CLOSED: Giveaway #2: Purex Triple Action Laundry Detergent

2011-12-26T18:53:00.002-05:00

Go to my previous post and leave a comment to enter the giveaway #2 of a Purex Triple Action Laundry Detergent coupon for a free bottle. I will choose 2 readers to receive a coupon. Details for the giveaway are identical to the original at the given below.

Click this link to enter giveaway #2 - even if you have ALREADY entered, do so again because the more that you leave a comment the higher your opportunity to be chosen by random.org.

Comment to leave this time: What type of stain or dirt do you have the most difficulty removing from your laundry?

http://chatwithvera.blogspot.com/2011/12/triple-action-purex-laundry-detergent.html

Princess Stories: Real Bible Stories of God's Princesses: Book Review

2011-12-24T22:16:00.000-05:00

I received a complimentary copy of Princess Stories this morning from Tyndale Publishers. I had hoped to receive this in time to review it for those looking for quality books as gifts for a daughter, granddaughter, niece, or other young girl on your gift list. However, it is Christmas Eve and much too late in the day for a Christmas gift in 2011.

You may want to consider, however, if your child receives a gift of money taking them to a book store and letting them purchase their own copy of Princess Stories with their gift. Now, let's talk about Princess Stories.

"Princess Stories" would be appropriate for girls ages 4 to 8. The book contains stories about 29 women in the Bible. It wraps up with the 30th story about the reader, who is God's princess too. Each story has a rhyme about the featured Bible princess followed by a narrative about the woman. There is a Bible verse from a passage of Scripture different from the actual Bible story that relates to that Princess' character trait. There is a teaching moment opportunity presented via the Princess Ponderings which are questions to guide discussion at the end of each story.

This little book is a delightful way to begin introducing young girls to women in the Bible with more detail than your typical "story book." Girls are inundated with Princesses in fairy tale literature and other venues of entertainment and play, it is time we introduce them to God's princesses and let them learn the real meaning of being a princess.

This hardcover book is printed in lovely feminine colors and designs on durable paper. The illustrations are nice and appropriate for the storyline.

Author: Carolyn Larsen Illustrator: Sergey Eliseev
Publisher: Tyndale Kids
ISBN: 1414348118
ISBN-13: 9781414348117

I received a complimentary copy of Princess Stories from Tyndale Publishers and was not required to give a positive review. All comments and ideas expressed are my own.

God's Wisdom for Little Boys illustrated by Judy Luenebrink

2011-12-23T00:23:00.000-05:00

Meet Judy Luenebrink and her art as pictured in "God's Wisdom for Little Boys" written by Jim & Elizabeth George and illustrated by Judy Luenebrink: (Judy describes her Art this way:)

"Uplifting watercolors that would bless others with the beauty and charm depicted in God's creation. Creating in my paintings and through my artwork a place people can walk into and feel the pleasure and peace of God's creation."

Illustrations/paintings are detailed, sweet and whimsical. They create a fun and inviting place for children to enter . . . to step into . . . and stay awhile.

Her paintings come from her heart, a heart filled with a love for God, His creation, and memories of both childhood and mothering .

While excelling with her art, Judy always remains aware that any talent, skill or ability has been given to her by the Lord and is to be used for His purposes and glory. (copied from http://www.judyluenebrink.com/bio.htm)

I have already reviewed "God's Wisdom for Little Boys" in a previous post here on ChatWith Vera. However, my husband has read and perused this gem of a book and shared some insight into the clever and wonderful follow-through and connectivity of illustrator Judy Luenebrink and authors Jim & Elizabeth George.

For example: The little boy's face is never fully seen; and you can thereby picture "your little boy" picturing himself as the one in the book. Also, his constant companions - his faithful dog and lingering frog - are involved in each and every enterprise this delightful little boy approaches and enacts.

Of particular note is the page illustrating Proverbs 17:17 (see picture to right). "A friend loves you all the time..." The picture shows two little boys seated on the edge of a porch watching it rain. They have their ball, bat, and gloves and are wearing their team jerseys and caps. But what is so innovative and intriguing is that one little boy's numbered jersey is a "1" and the other's is a "7." They are sitting close to one another and together their shirts read, "17." You see, they are friendly and they are living out Proverbs 17:17. Also, the dog has a kerchief around his neck and he is numbered "17" as well. It is raining, but there is the hope of the rainbow that they can see in the upper corner of the sky.

The art is absolutely beautiful - touchingly beautiful. A mother's, father's, grandparent's heart would melt viewing these illustrations that so truly depict the nuances of a little boy.

Need-less-to-say, I recommend this book and will be purchasing more works by The George's and by artist Judy Luenebrink.

I was provided this book for review purposes by Harvest House Publishers and was not required to render a positive review. All comments are entirely my own.

Mary Did You Know

2011-12-22T19:16:00.000-05:00

How can we comprehend that God condesended to come to Earth as a babe......