My Blessings From Above

29 Years!

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sun, 19 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Twenty-nine years ago today, Larry and I said I do before God, our family and friends! We have had lots of happiness and some struggles. I could not have asked for a more wonderful Husband! I love you Larry! Happy Anniversary!

Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away. If one were to give all the wealth of his house for love, it would be utterly scorned.

Song of Solomon 8:6-7

First Wildcard Tour~NIV Real Life Devotional Bible for Women

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sat, 18 May 2013 01:37:00 +0000

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card Insight Notes author is:

Lysa TerKeurst

and the book:

NIV Real Life Devotional Bible for Women,
Insights for Everyday Life Notes

Zondervan; Special edition (March 19, 2013)

***Special thanks to Rick Roberson for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lysa TerKeurst is a New York Times bestselling author and national speaker who helps everyday women live an adventure of faith. She is the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, author of 15 books, and encourages nearly 500,000 women worldwide through a daily online devotional. Her remarkable life story has captured audiences across America, including appearances on Oprah and Good Morning America. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and five children.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

This Bible will help you live up to your God-given potential. Insightful daily devotions written by the women at Proverbs 31 Ministries help you maintain life's balance in spite of today's hectic pace. Dive into the beauty and clarity of the NIV Bible text paired with daily devotions crafted by women just like you---women who want to live authentically and fully grounded in the Word of God.

Product Details:
List Price: $34.99
Hardcover: 1536 pages
Publisher: Zondervan; Special edition (March 19, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0310439361
ISBN-13: 978-0310439363

AND NOW...SOME SAMPLE PAGES (CLICK ON PAGES TO ENLARGE):

May Clutter Busting Challenge: Update 88 Items!

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Fri, 17 May 2013 14:07:00 +0000

Today I am sharing 88 items that I have removed from our home with this challenge! Yes, 88! Well they are not out of here yet, but much of it will be this weekend! Tomorrow we are taking much of what I have listed to a yard sale to sell. What does not sell this week I will take to my aunt’s memorial day yard sale next weekend! After that it gets donated!

I go through my freebies and samples a couple of times a year and sell or donate when I get an over abundance of items from my CVS shopping.

Another thing I have started decluttering are my photos. I will not tell you how behind I am on this project! Years. The other day I decided to move photos from one album to another. The one I originally had the photos in was just too larger for the shelf. I decided to move them to a smaller album I had on hand. Well I had the brilliant idea that I should declutter those photos. After all how many photos of a rabbit in our yard (from 1992) do I really need to save? I had about 7 of them! SEVEN! Of a rabbit!

In addition to that I had about 10 pictures of my nephew who is now an adult holding a particular elephant we gave him for his third birthday. I think I had about six of those. I thought saving two of them would be enough! I have always been an avid photographer, but I really need to be ruthless with my decluttering! Really when I am gone someday is anyone going to want all of these pictures? Yes many are priceless memories, but I think I can remember and event without twenty of the almost exact photo. Please tell me you can relate?

I have gotten quite serious with this challenge and I will be sharing more in the upcoming days and weeks!

Here is my list:

42 samples
3 Conditioners
1 razor
2 Sunscreen
1 hand sanitizer
2 Pantene Samples
11 Wood backed rubber stamps
11 foam backed rubber stamps
3 decorative mirrors
1 bear figurine
1 kids toy
1 bug catcher
3 books
1 package bulletin board cut outs
1 photo album
1 pile of photos (probably about 50!)
1 stack of papers (went to recycling)

This brings my total items decluttered since I started this challenge to 156 items not including the papers I decluttered last week and the small items I have thrown out and not bothered to photograph!

I’m starting to see a small difference! I will continue to declutter more today as I prepare for the yard sale.

How is your decluttering challenge going?

Waterproof Bible {Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Thu, 16 May 2013 16:06:00 +0000

When I was offered the opportunity to review The Waterproof Bible I knew this was going to be a fun review! Throwing a book, the Bible no less into the water is something I have never done!

I had actually never heard of these Bibles until recently and the thought of getting it wet left me….well….a bit apprehensive! I have some pretty strict rules when it comes to books in our home and thankfully my boys take care of our own books as well as the books we borrow from our library. Being able to actually be a bit destructive towards a book is not something we do here!

Let me start off by telling you a bit about these Bibles. They are published by Bardin & Marsee Publishing. The idea for these Bibles came from Bobby and Anna. They wanted a way to be able to take their Bibles with them where ever they went: Camping, backpacking and just being in the out-of-doors. Thus the Waterproof Bible was created. The Bibles are made of 100% synthetic tree-free materials. They truly are waterproof, inside and out! They come in several translations:

ESV
KJV
NIV
NKJV
NLT

The Bibles also come in a variety of colors including blue, pink and camouflage. They are available in two versions a full Bible with Old and New Testaments or New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs. You can find more information about size, color and translation on the shop page.

You can write in these Bibles using a ball point pen (sharpie markers and gel pens are not recommended) You are also able to highlight with a dry highlighter. Regular highlighters will wipe off. Dry Highlighters are available on their accessories page along with some other items you might be interested in.

The Waterproof Bible is also stain resistant and has ultra clear text. The pages of this book are very white and the type very crisp and clean.

For this review I received the ESV New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs which currently retails for $24.95 is 356 pages, 4 1/4" x 7", 7 pt. font.

I was happy to receive the ESV which is a translation of the Bible that I do not own!

I think my husband Larry was more shocked than the kids when I announced one day that we were heading outside to test this Bible. In water and mud. He could not believe that I was really going to let the kids get it wet. He was very concerned when he saw me headed for the large mud puddle that is always in the field next to our home after a good rain storm.

He actually said to me: You are not going to really throw that in the water are you? I assured him I was.

I handed the Bible to Justin and told him to throw it in! He did! Very happily I might add, with Kaden assisting!

We made sure to get it good and wet. Kaden even took a stick and pushed it down in the water and mud just to make sure it was thoroughly wet and dirty! When he let go it popped back up and just floated in the water!

We decided that we should clean it off. Justin thought the hose would be a fun way to clean it. I will be honest, we had a difficult time keeping the mud actually on the book. It just slid right off before we had much of a chance to rinse it. Once these Bibles get wet the water just beads up on them!

Again Justin soaked it for quite some time! He made sure to rinse the inside and outside and gave it a through washing! You can see in the bottom photo on the right I am squeezing the water out!

No stains, no dirt, no damage! Amazing!

Good as new!

What do we think about this Bible? We LOVE it! Justin would love one of his own. His birthday is coming in July so maybe we will surprise him with one!

I did have one question. The font is only 7 pt.(type size of the words) Pretty small for these 50 year old eyes. We had the opportunity to have a conference call with Bobby and I asked about a larger larger print version. He explained that larger fonts require more paper which would make these books much heavier. Because the pages are a little thicker then regular paper the books are heavier. The Bible I have weighs about 12 ounces. I certainly would not want to carry around a Bible that is too heavy and cumbersome. The solution to this dilemma is a magnifier book mark that is available on their site for $2.50!

Just think of the possibilities for this Bible. You can take it camping, to the beach, read it in the bathtub, canoeing, boating, skiing. So many places you could take these Bibles and never have to worry about it getting wet or ruined. You could leave it outside all summer by your favorite chair and not have to worry about damage. The places the Waterproof Bible can be used are endless.

The Waterproof Bible would also be wonderful for missionaries and folks in the military.

If you are looking for a truly wonderful Bible this one is one that might work for you!

Visit the Mosaic Reviews website to read more great reviews of the Waterproof Bible!

note: in some of my pictures the Bible appears to be purple. It is not, it is definitely pink. The lighting outdoors made it appear more purple!

My Mother’s Day

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Mon, 13 May 2013 14:17:00 +0000

I had a wonderful Mother’s Day yesterday. Our day started with Sunday School (I love all the ladies in my class) and church. Our pastor had all the ladies come to the front of the church and stand at the altar. Then she asked all the men to come up in back of the ladies, lay hands on us all and then the pastor and the men prayed for us. It was beautiful. After church we were each given a small chrysanthemum.

Between Sunday school and church Kaden brought me a card he had made in church shaped like a teapot with a tea bag inside that read: Your my cup of tea. Before I even had a chance to open it, he said: Mom there is a tea bag inside! Funny boy! When I read it to him I asked him: Are you my cup of tea, Kaden? He said: I don’t think so! Ha!

After church I thought we were coming home but Larry was headed in the opposite direction. He asked me where I wanted to go for Mother’s Day lunch. I chose Red Robin! It was delicious!

We returned home and the boys gave me my Mother’s Day Cards and a beautiful hanging basket and a butterfly bush! I have been wanting a new butterfly bush since we moved from our old house. They could not find purple so they bought me a yellow one. Now to figure out where to plant it.

I spent the rest of the afternoon visiting with my mom and hanging with my family.

Ooka Island Adventure {Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sun, 12 May 2013 05:10:00 +0000

Ooka Island Adventure is a computer based reading program that uses games to teach children literacy. The program is recommended for children ages 3-7.

The program is based on years of research by Dr. Kay MacPhee, who developed the eye/ear reading method to help teach her deaf son to read. Dr. MacPhee’s research and the development of the SpellRead program in 1994 helped to make Ooka Island. Read the story of how Ooka Island came to be here.

Ooka Island’s pricing is $19.95 per month -for a family membership with up to four students- or $149.95 per year. You can also purchase a a membership for an individual child for a bit less. There is a home edition, school edition and homeschool edition available. You can read more about their pricing for these editions as well as the individual student membership on their website.

I used this program with Kaden who just turned 8 in March and I can tell you that he loved it! Kaden loves video games and as it states on the Ooka Island website: Play with purpose! While many of our children love video games in this age of technology it is wonderful to find programs that teach subject matter that is important and fundamental to our children’s education. With Ooka Island children are not just getting a bunch of mindless screen time, they are actually learning to read and grow in confidence and their abilities.

What a wonderful reading program this is! Kaden is a reluctant reader, but he has really enjoyed using Ooka Island and I can see where he is making marked improvement in his reading abilities. I knew he would enjoy the game format and he would want to give it a try.

As he was playing, not once did he complain about learning to read. As he does when we use our other reading program at times!

I like that the skills in each game build upon each other to help children reach their reading goals. As the child learns a new skill it builds upon the next one as the child progresses though the program.

The games are fun and engaging. Another thing I really like is that ability for Kaden to log himself in easily with out my assistance. With 2 mouse clicks he can start playing on his own.

I also like that the free time is limited during game time. Kaden was actually working through the games and reading the online books much of the time he was playing.

There is a parent section called The Lighthouse. This section is a very comprehensive progress reporting area for your child. The Lighthouse will help you asses where your child is in the Ooka Island program.

Additional resources- there are some wonderful free resources that go along with the program: workbooks and activity pages to enhance your child’s learning. Both of these resources come in PDF format which you can download and print or download to a device such as a smart phone or a Kindle.

In addition to those resources Ooka Island offers books in paperback at an additional cost to enhance your children’s learning experience. There are over 30 books available within three levels (beginning, emergent and fluency) if you so desire. You can find sample downloadable books on this page.

To get a feel for the program you can watch the video tour.

The folks at Ooka Island are generously offering my readers a 30% discount (valid until June 1, 2013) for a monthly or yearly membership! Click on this link to get your discount!

I think Ooka Island Adventure is a wonderful learning tool for teaching young children to read!

You can also visit the Ooka Island blog to learn more about the program!

May Clutter-Busting Challenge-Update

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sat, 11 May 2013 04:16:00 +0000

I have not got as much done in the clutter-busting challenge as I had hoped. I am still diligently plugging along in getting rid of unwanted items in our home. Here are the current items that will be finding new homes! I hope to get a bit more done over the weekend!

a brand new scrap book
three window candles
a book
a purse
a scoop with a thermometer (this goes to my yogurt maker and I never use the spoon.
a candle holder
a loan salt shaker

Below

2 freaky Santa Clause dolls
3 Bed skirts

The Cat that God Sent and The Dog that Talked to God {Book Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Fri, 10 May 2013 03:22:00 +0000

Book Info

About The Cat That God Sent:
Meet Petey, your not-so-average cat-on a mission from God
Disillusioned young pastor, Jake Wilkerson, has just arrived at his new assignment in the small rural church of Coudersport, Pennsylvania. Also new on the scene is Petey, a cat of unknown origins and breed-but of great perception.
As Jake sets about doing the business of ministry, Petey's continued interference brings chaos to the community of curiously off and eccentric people-residents like the faith-avoiding veterinarian Sally Grainger and Tassy, a young runaway with a secret. An expert at hiding his fears, Jake wonders if all this-and the cat to boot-is more than he can handle. What is Petey's real "mission"? Perhaps something larger than Jake---or even Petey---can possibly know.

My Thoughts

The Cat that God Sent is a charming story about a cat that arrives at a church in Coudersport, PA the same day the new pastor does! If you know a thing or two about cats then you know that they are very independent and decide who their owners will be! Petey has decided to adopt Pastor Jake and attends the church services which soon has more of the towns people attending church services. Not only that but Petey talks to humans!

Petey touches the lives of everyone he encounters and in some very unexpected ways.

I found this story a delight to read! The author has written a unique story that is sure to touch you!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The Dog That Talked to God:

Recently widowed Mary Fassler buys a Miniature Schnauzer, Rufus, and her world is turned sideways in the midst of her grief. It seems that Rufus speaks. And not just to her. He also talks to God. When Rufus begins sharing advice that could result in major changes, Mary gets the feeling the pooch might not be steering her in the right direction. Or, is she just afraid to take the leap and discover something she desperately needs? Only Rufus...and God...knows.

My Thoughts

The Dog that Talked to God is another wonderful story! Rufus the Schnauzer is about to change Mary’s world. One night during their walk Mary asks a question Rufus answers her! Mary is struggling grieving the loss of her husband and son. As Mary works through her grief, she returns to church and she and Rufus form a very special bond!

Both of these books are fun and also touch on some serious topics! I loved the humor in these two books that give light hearted stories each with a wonderful message!

Meet Jim:
Jim Kraus grew up in Western Pennsylvania and has spent the last twenty years as a vice president of a major Christian publishing house. He has written more than twenty books and novels, including the best-selling The Dog That Talked to God. He and his family live outside of Chicago with a sweet miniature Schnauzer and an ill-tempered Siberian cat named (of course) Petey. www.jimkraus.com

disclosure: I received these books from Litfuse in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.

Praying Mantis

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Thu, 09 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Back in the winter Larry found three praying mantis cocoons. We left them outside. A couple of weeks ago we brought one in, put it in a jar and made tiny holes in the top for air.

Guess what? It hatched the other day!

How cool are those little bitty praying mantis?

We spent some time observing them! Nothing like hands on learning and observation!

It was really fun examining them with a magnifying glass!

Kaden wanted Daddy to see them so we kept them until he came home from work!

Time to let them go. We decided the lilac bush looked like a nice safe spot to free them.

Leaving the nest….errr… cocoon!

So what nature have your brought in to observe lately?

It Happened at the Fair {Book Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Thu, 09 May 2013 03:38:00 +0000

More about It Happened at the Fair:

A transporting historical novel about a promising young inventor, his struggle with loss, and the attractive teacher who changes his life, all set against the razzle-dazzle of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair.

Gambling everything, including the family farm, Cullen McNamara travels to the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with his most recent invention. But the noise in the Fair's Machinery Palace makes it impossible to communicate with potential buyers. In an act of desperation, he hires Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to tutor him in the art of lip-reading.

The young teacher is reluctant to participate, and Cullen has trouble keeping his mind on his lessons while intently watching her lips. Like the newly invented Ferris Wheel, he is caught in a whirl between his girl back home, his dreams as an inventor, and his unexpected attraction to his new tutor. Can he keep his feet on the ground, or will he be carried away?

My Thoughts

The 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, also known as the Columbian Exposition must have been a sight to behold! Author Deeanne Gist amazingly brings this most historical event to life in It Happened at the Fair!

The sights and sounds of this great fair are brought to life between the pages of this book. The author has done a lot of research into the history of the fair and it is evident as you read this wonderful story!

While it is a romance about two people who meet at the fair Cullen who has risked everything to bring his invention to the fair and Della the tutor who is a teacher of the deaf, it is so much more!

It Happened at the Fair is a piece of history come to life! From the description of the White City which was built just for the fair and whose buildings would later change how architecture is created to all of the wonderful inventions that were exhibited.

Not only that, I was amazed at all the famous people who attended the fair! President Grover Cleveland, Helen Keller, Alexander Graham Bell and Ann Sullivan to name a few! Wow!

I cannot imagine what a wonder event this must have been with the original Ferris wheel at the fair! How amazing that must have been!

The characters are wonderful and it is so interesting to watch their relationship grow. The author keeps us in suspense a bit so as to not share everything until near the end of the story!

It Happened at the Fair is a wonderful story! I loved the addition of the photographs at the beginning of almost every chapter! It just enhanced the story. You will not be disappointed with this wonderful book!

Stop over to the Litfuse website for more information and reviews of It Happened at the Fair!

Meet Deeanne:

Deeanne Gist---known to her family, friends, and fans as Dee---has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very fun, very original historicals. She has received numerous RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and rave reviews. Deeanne has a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&M. She has written for People, Parents, and Parenting. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and has four grown children. She has a very active online community on her website at IWantHerBook.com and at Facebook.com/DeesFriends.

http://litfusegroup.com/author/dgist

Deeanne Gist is celebrating the release of It Happened at the Fair with an iPad Mini Giveaway and a Live Author Chat Webcast event {5/22}!

One "fair" winner will receive:

An iPad Mini
A $25 iTunes gift card

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 21st. Winner will be announced at the "It Happened at the Fair" Live Webcast Event on May 22nd. Connect with Deeanne for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Deeanne will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books and fun gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of It Happened at the Fair and join Deeanne and friends on the evening of May 22nd for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 22nd!

disclosure: I received this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.

It’s Asparagus time!

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Wed, 08 May 2013 14:27:00 +0000

The field next to our house is planted with asparagus (my dad’s cousin owns it) and each year we cannot wait to pick some!

Kaden asked me the other day what we were having for supper and if asparagus would go with it?

We were having chicken. He was very excited when I told him we could go out and pick some. You really do not pick asparagus, you cut it. Kaden was a happy boy when I handed him the knife and let him do the cutting.

We love asparagus here. All except Kaden. Our favorite way to prepare it is roasted with a bit of olive oil and sea salt.

I think this year I am going to make some asparagus soup!

I love fresh vegetables and fruit! I am looking forward to some fresh strawberries over the weekend!

Clear the Clutter Challenge: Update

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Mon, 06 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Over the weekend I cleared out some more of the clutter. I have been busy working in both the kitchen and my craft/storage room. I have been going through boxes of papers, keepsakes and school papers. Let me tell you I am very disorganized, especially with the boys school papers, but I am working on that. Here is what I got rid of.

an empty oatmeal canister. I saved this for Kaden who wanted it to play with is matchbox cars with. He has never used it. Into the recycling it went along with that pile of papers next to it. These were old artwork, papers from the boys. There are tons of them. I went through them saved the best ones and put the rest in the recycling bin.

Next up is a pile (about 6 inches high) of coupon inserts. Yes I have not cleaned out the coupon drawer in quite some time. Since Dec! These went to the recycling center on Sat along with our other trash.

And finally…..here are some items that I took from my craft/storage room. Chick Filet containers, into the recycling. A vase, a plastic Valentine’s day bowl, two glass mugs, a pitcher that once held artificial flowers, a small very old ash tray. I have no idea where this even came from. I think it was given to me because I really like roses and there are roses on the front of it.

Cookbooks. I am in the process of going through my cookbooks, so many I never use. I cook a lot but get many of my recipes online. I ended up moving all my cookbooks (the ones I am keeping) and I have a few I am going through to copy off the recipes I use from them and then they will go too.

What is not shown is a half a bag of trash that I threw out as well as a quarter crate of papers that I recycled. (we use an extra long milk crate)

I still have so much more to go through and we are going to a yard sale in two weeks so some of these items will end up there and the rest will be donated. What does not sell will also be donated.

I want our home clutter free, cozy and welcoming and I am tired of being a slave to my possessions!

Life Song

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sun, 05 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

The Rise of London

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sat, 04 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Justin LOVES puzzles! He has been doing challenging puzzles since he was about 5. He just loves the challenge. If you ask him what his favorite type of puzzle is he will tell you anything that is either 3 or 4 deminsional. He has many of those types of puzzles including most beloved New York City 3-D puzzle! I have not shared that here on the blog but I will one of these days!

Below is the puzzle Justin is working on. It is a London 4-D puzzle that spans 100 years of architecture. He started on this the other day and now has the first layer complete.

Justin is very excited to complete it! He has several of these puzzles including NYC, Washington DC and Chicago.

I will update his progress when he completes the next step which will be in the next few days!

contains affiliate links

Helping the birds

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Fri, 03 May 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Yesterday we decided to help the birds in our yard by providing them with nesting material as they busily work to build their nests.

I gathered up our supplies: leftover felt from some craft projects, cotton balls, ribbon, dryer lint, shredded newspaper and twine.

I used two of our suet holders that I had cleaned out and let the boys fill them!

Once they were filled we headed outside to find a place to hang them!

Kaden’s nesting material!

Justin’s nesting material!

We are going to keep an eye on them and see if we can spot any of our birds making use of these materials!

May Clear the Clutter Challenge!

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Fri, 03 May 2013 00:51:00 +0000

Money Saving Mom is having a clutter-busting challenge for the month of May and I decided to join her on this venture! Every day throughout the month of May I am going to get rid of 7 things!

I actually started going through things last week before I knew anything about this challenge so I thought this would be excellent motivation for me to get busy and let go of so many items that we truly do not need!

I didn’t post yesterday as we have been busy here with lots of school the day got away from me. However I did manage to get a pile of things gone through!

I can tell you right now that I will probably have way more then 7 items each day because I have a lot of stuff that just needs to GO!

I may or may not post every day, depending on the time I have, but I will be clutter-busting every day! I will post a few times a week with my progress. I have so much that I need to go through and get rid of and I would really like to make a lot of progress by the end of the month!

Here is what I am sharing today!

20 books to sell/trade or giveaway
thermometer
7 pens/markers that never get used
a candle holder

Stay tuned…….much more to come…and go!

Of Bugs and Boys

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Thu, 02 May 2013 14:23:00 +0000

Kaden is our resident insect expert. He loves butterflies, ladybugs, praying mantis and all sorts of other insects.

For his birthday back in March, we bought him a ladybug habitat. A couple of weeks ago I ordered the ladybug larvae once they arrived, he was excited to begin setting up his habitat.

The larvae arrived in a long tube and we needed to get them into the habitat.

Step one was to add water to the little felt in the center of the habitat. This is for the lady bug larvae to drink from.

Step two: add the ladybug larvae. To do this you open the tube and insert it into the top of the habitat. The top of the habitat has a lid that comes off so you can add them easily and also add fresh water as needed. It was a bit tricky getting the larvae into the habitat without dropping them into the wet felt piece. You have to be sure to tilt the plastic tube away from the felt.

I love the look of concentration on Kaden’s face!

and here are the larvae and their food. Not too exciting to look at are they? They are very tiny.

We actually thought that most of them were dead, as the weather here had turned chilly, but we are happy to report that two survived and we have been watching them each day. Below you can see one of the larvae in the top of the habitat. We watch them crawl all around, get a drink and are patiently waiting for them to turn into ladybugs!

Postcards from Misty Harbor Inn Series: Seaside Harmony & Sunflower Summer {Book Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Wed, 01 May 2013 00:11:00 +0000

More about the books:
The Postcards from Misty Harbor Inn series (Guideposts Books) introduces readers to Caroline, Gracie and Sam as they gather for a vacation where they spent the summers as children, and follows their adventures as they fulfill their mother's dream of opening a bed and breakfast. As the sisters heal from their mother's passing, they bond in ways they never imagined and discover evidence of God's hand in the unlikeliest of circumstances.
A team of four authors come together under the pen name of Evangeline Kelley to bring the unique personalities of each sister to vivid life and welcome audiences to the charming and historic island of Nantucket, complete with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, ferries, sandy beaches and salty air.

Seaside Harmony:
Three sisters, a charming inn, hints of mystery and romance, and a gorgeous seaside setting. Summer reading at its finest!
When Caroline Marris joins her sisters, Gracie Gold and Sam Carter for a Nantucket Island getaway, she has no idea how it will change her life. The sisters stumble upon Misty Harbor Inn, the place their late mother loved so much, and Caroline talks her sisters into buying the beautiful but dilapidated inn. But can free-spirited Caroline stay focused enough to make opening the inn a reality? Hand-drawn old postcards draw the sisters into the mystery of Hannah Montague, the young widow of the original owner. Can the sisters uncover the fate of this woman who disappeared in 1880? As Caroline and her sisters work together to make their mom's dream a reality, they bond in ways they never expected.

My Thoughts

Seaside Harmony is the first book in the new Post Cards from Misty Harbor Series. The story is a delightful one! Set in Nantucket, the perfect setting a great summer read! When the three sisters set out for this summer get away, they do not realize they are in for major changes that will effect all three of them significantly.

What started as a summer vacation turns into much more when the sisters decide to purchase the inn that their mother loved and had such fond memories of! The building is in disrepair from years of neglect and the sisters have work to do to restore it and get it open for business.

A mystery ensues when they discover some old postcards from a woman by the name of Hannah Montague who was the widow of the original owner of the inn. It seems that she mysteriously disappeared in 1880. The sister set out to discover what happened and try to solve the mystery of her disappearance.

Seaside Harmony is a charming and quaint story! A really great summer read!

Sunflower Summer:
Misty Harbor Inn officially opens, and Gracie Gold, the middle Marris sister, wrestles with an overwhelming decision. As the sisters learn the day-to-day workings of running an inn, Gracie counsels its first guests, newlyweds whose honeymoon seems to be ending before it begins. Meanwhile, Sam's discovery of a clue in a secret room sheds unflattering light on Hannah Montague, who vanished from the house more than one hundred years ago. And as Gracie and Caroline welcome guests to the inn, they are delighted to see how God uses it --- and them --- to deepen relationships and transform lives.

My Thoughts

Sunflower Summer is the second book in the Postcards from Misty Harbor Inn series is just as captivating as the first story! The Marris sisters are getting ready to open the inn, after a lot of work getting the inn cleaned up and making some renovations. Their first guests are a newly married couple on their honeymoon. However, the honeymoon may be over before it really begins!

In addition to their first guests, one of the sisters discovers a secret room that brings to light a bit more about Hannah Montague and some of what they discover about Hannah is not so flattering. Are they closer to solving the mystery of her disappearance nearly 100 years ago? It would see so!

Sunflower Summer is a great sequel and you will find the story just as exciting as the first! I love the way the sisters interact with each other and I have enjoyed learning more about their individual personalities!

Both of these stories are wonderfully told! The Marris sisters are interesting and the setting on Nantucket is just a wonderful place for a summer story! These books just beg you to pick them up, head to the beach get out your beach chair and settle in for some good reading!

Meet Evangeline Kelley:
Evangeline Kelley is the pen name for the writing team of Patti Berg, Pam Andrews & Barbara Hanson, and Camy Tang, the four authors who collaborated to create Postcards from Misty Harbor Inn. Each of them has published novels individually, but this is their first series together.
Find out more about Evangeline at http://amzn.to/10d3FZM.

Be sure to stop by the Litfuse website to read more about these wonderful stories!

Guideposts Books is celebrating the release of their new Postcards from Misty Harbor Inn series with a fun giveaway and a Facebook party on May 9th.

One fortunate winner will receive:

A Nook HD
Seaside Harmony and Sunflower Summer by Evangeline Kelley

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 8th. Winner will be announced at the Postcards from Misty Harbor Inn Author Chat Facebook Party on 5/9. Connect with Patti Berg, Pam Andrews, Barbara Hanson, and Camy Tang (who collaborated together under the pen name, Evangeline Kelley) for an evening of book chat, trivia, and fun! There will also be great giveaways (gift certificates, books, and more) as well as a sneak peek at the next book in the series!

So grab your copies of Seaside Harmony and Sunflower Summer and join readers just like you on the evening of May 9th for a chance to connect with the authors and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the books - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 9th!

disclosure: I received these books from Litfuse in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.

Spanish for You! {Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 02:00:00 +0000

Recently I had the opportunity to review a new Spanish curriculum titled Spanish for You! I have wanted to teach my boys a foreign language and I was excited about this opportunity!

Spanish for you! is a curriculum that teaches your child fluency in Spanish through themes. There are currently two themes available for immediate purchase Fiestas (celebrations) and Estaciones (seasons) and a third Viajes (travel) which will be available in June 2013. We chose the Estaciones for this review.

Grades 3-4 cover 30 weeks
Grades 5-6 and 7-8 cover 24 weeks
You also have your choice of digital or eBook format

What I like about the curriculum:

it is affordable-there are many foreign language curriculums out there that are so expensive and way above our homeschool budget. Spanish for You! costs run between $10.00 and $65.00 depending on whether you choose all grade levels or just a particular grade level. You can also choose a 4 week trial.
it can be used for multiple ages from grades 3 through 8! You can use it now and revisit it in future years to refresh or use
it is multi sensory. There is visual and audio learning involved.
it is self paced. There is not requirement for you to follow any particular pace/schedule. Your child can work at their own pace!
There are two sets of audio files for each lesson, both a native and non-native speaker. I really liked this feature to be able to first listen to the non-native speaker and then listen again with the native speaker. We found this very helpful in our learning the correct pronunciation.
there are common words and phrases-I found these very helpful to use many common phrases.
there are games, activities and pictures for making your own flash cards(digital files for the pictures) to use in conjunction with the lessons.

Common words and phrases

How we are using it:

Since it has been many, many years since I had Spanish classes, we are taking it very slow. KI am using the 3 and 4 grade level with my boys who are 11 and 8. We break each lesson into to two days, sometimes three. We listen to the audio each day first with the non-native speaker and then with the native speaker. We are creating flash cards as we go. I will repeat the audio as necessary, if the boys are not understanding or get stuck we will go back and listen to the audios again. We take between 15 and 20 minutes for each lesson. I want the boys to absorb as much of the lesson as possible and I don’t wish to overwhelm them with too much vocabulary at one time.

I really like Spanish for You! I think it is a solid curriculum and I really like the concept of teaching using a theme!

Additional Info:

You can view sample pages of the Estaciones (seasons)and Fiestas (celebrations) by going to this page and clicking on the respective pictures.

Visit this page for some free mini lessons! You will also find free worksheets here!

Be sure to visit the Mosaic Reviews website where you can find out more information about Spanish for You! and read reviews of Fiestas (celebrations) theme!

Discover Together Bible Study: Ephesians {Book Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:31:00 +0000

About Ephesians: Women need Bible study to keep balanced, focused and Christ-centered in their busy worlds. However, many find it difficult to set aside the time and discipline needed for an in-depth study. The Discover Together studies offer tiered questions to allow readers to choose a depth of study that fits with their individual lifestyles or schedules, even if they vary by the week, month or season

This insightful Bible study uses the example of Paul's church in Ephesus to show readers how they can be victorious Christians, living in God's Word, and free from sin. Part of the discovery series, the Ephesians edition includes tips for either individual or group use, inspirational sidebars and short, 3-5 minute teaching videos. Scan the video QR code in the book with a smart phone or visit the series website to watch Sue provide historical and cultural background, teach important truths found in each week's lesson, or ask thoughtful questions to encourage deeper discussion.

Order a copy of the book here.

Join the online Bible study here.

Just LIKE the page and then follow along. There will be a launch party for Ephesians on April 11th and the online Bible study will begin the following week on April 15th.

Women crave Bible studies that challenge them to grow in their faith. But after balancing carpools, sports schedules, or work deadlines, you may not be able to commit to another evening out of the house. Now you don't have to.

Whether studying with a small group or by yourself, you know can join popular Bible teacher Sue Edwards on the Year of Discovery. Sue will be leading women through her studies with online chats and discussions on her Facebook page. All year long. Every week. Any time of day. From the comfort of home. Make-up and hair-do optional. Come as you are!

Each week you will find quotes, links to articles and other resources, and videos to help you as you study. Complete the lessons at your convenience. Then visit Facebook.com/DiscoverTogetherSeries any time of day to comment or ask questions. Sue will be there frequently to respond, encourage, and equip!

My Thoughts

Have you ever done a study on Ephesians? The Apostle Paul wrote Ephesians and while it is one of the smaller books of the Bible, it is a very important book to read. In it you will find instructions for Christian living and Christian households and The Armor of God. Some very important topics are in this small book.

Sue Edwards Bible study of Ephesians delves deeply into this book. The study features nine lessons:

Learn to Sit
Sit and Pray
Sit Down to Work
Sit Down Together
Sit Down to Walk
Tripping Over Your Tongue? Talk Your Walk?
Walking “Under the Influence”
Walk Worthy in Relationships
Sit Down to Stand

In addition to these lessons, there is the question? Why Study Ephesians?

Each lesson has a short commentary at the beginning as the selected scripture reading for the lesson followed by a list of questions. This study like the Revelation Study can be done individually at your own pace or with a group, Sunday school class or Bible study. I prefer to read the scripture passages for each lesson and work through the questions a little at a time.

What I really like about Sue’s Bible studies is that they allow you to really dig deep and ponder the scripture and work through the questions.

You will also find a prayer log to record your prayers as you work through the study.

In addition there are 3-5 minute videos that are available to watch for each lesson. If you own a smart phone you can scan the QR video codes found at the beginning of each lesson. If you are like me and don’t own a smart phone found here.

I really like these Bible Studies and I think if you are looking for a great study on Ephesians you will benefit from this study!

Be sure to stop by the Litfuse website for more information about Ephesians!

Meet Sue: Sue Edwards (MA, Dallas Theological Seminary; D.Min., Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary) teaches full-time in the Christian Education Department at Dallas Theological Seminary. She has more than twenty-five years of experience teaching, pastoring, and directing women's ministries. In addition, Sue speaks at retreats, conferences, and seminars across the country. She is the coauthor of Women's Retreats and New Doors in Ministry to Women, and the author of the new Sue Edwards Inductive Bible Study series.

Find out more about Sue at http://www.discovertogetherseries.com.

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose for Christ. Join the online Bible study (4/15 -5/7) with Sue Edwards! And invite your friends to join you.

Between April 15 and June 17 Sue will be posting weekly on the Year of Discovery Facebook Page and interacting with groups and individuals around the country going through the study at the same time. Women will be able to discuss the study with each other and ask questions via Facebook.

Completing each lesson requires about one-and-a-half hours. Readers still receive in-depth Bible study but with a minimum time commitment. For those who desire a more thorough study, including an opportunity to learn more about the history, culture and geography related to the Bible, Edwards has provided “Digging Deeper” questions. Answering these questions may require outside resources such as an atlas, Bible dictionary or concordance and challenge readers to examine complex theological issues and differing views more closely.

More about the Ephesians study: This insightful Bible study uses the example of Paul’s church in Ephesus to show readers how they can be victorious Christians, living in God’s Word, and free from sin. Part of the discovery series, the Ephesians edition includes tips for either individual or group use, inspirational sidebars and short, 3-5 minute teaching videos.

Purchase a copy of Ephesians and join the on-line Bible study today.

“Ephesians” Online Bible Study – JOIN ME!

disclosure: I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.

Heiress of Winterwood {Book Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 01:51:00 +0000

The Heiress of Winterwood by Sarah Ladd

About The Heiress of Winterwood: Pride goes before the fall . . . but what comes after?

Darbury, England, 1814

Amelia Barrett gave her word. Keeping it could cost her everything.

Amelia Barrett, heiress to an estate nestled in the English moors, defies family expectations and promises to raise her dying friend's baby. She'll risk everything to keep her word-even to the point of proposing to the child's father-a sea captain she's never met.

When the child vanishes with little more than an ominous ransom note hinting at her whereabouts, Amelia and Graham are driven to test the boundaries of their love for this little one.

Amelia's detailed plans would normally see her through any trial, but now, desperate and shaken, she's forced to examine her soul and face her one weakness: pride.

Graham's strength and self-control have served him well and earned him much respect, but chasing perfection has kept him a prisoner of his own discipline. And away from the family he has sworn to love and protect.

Both must learn to have faith and relinquish control so they can embrace the future ahead of them.

My Thoughts:

Do you enjoy Regency books? If you do The Heiress of Winterwood is a book you should read! Amelia is set on keeping a promise to her dear friend at any cost! I really like the loyalty factor in this book. You don’t see that much today. The book is very well written and the author did an excellent job fleshing out the characters! I really enjoyed the suspense, romance and many unexpected twists the story took!

Visit the Litfuse website for more about The Heiress of Winterwood

Meet Sarah: Sarah E. Ladd has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. Heiress of Winterwood was the recipient of the 2011 Genesis Award for historical romance. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing husband, sweet daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever.

Find out more about Sarah at http://www.sarahladd.com.

Sarah Ladd is celebrating the release of The Heiress of Winterwood with a Downton Abbey Kindle Prize Pack Giveaway!

One winner will receive:

A brand new Kindle Fire
Downton Abbey, seasons 1-3

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 30th. Winner will be announced on 5/2/13 {HERE}.

Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

disclosure: I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.

Jesus Wept {Book Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 01:12:00 +0000

About When Jesus Wept:

When Jesus Wept: Jerusalem Chronicles by Bodie & Brock Thoene

Book 1 in the Thoene's new Jerusalem Chronicles.

Lazarus occupies a surprising position in the Gospel accounts. Widely known as the man Jesus raised from the dead, his story is actually much broader and richer than that. Living as he did at Bethany, near Jerusalem, Lazarus was uniquely placed to witness the swirl of events around Jesus. When Jesus Wept, the first novel in The Jerusalem Chronicles series by bestselling authors Bodie and Brock Thoene, unfolds the turbulent times in Judea during Jesus' ministry, centering on the friendship between Jesus and Lazarus. With rich insights from vineyard owners and vine dressers, the Thoenes explore the metaphor of Jesus as the True Vine, harvesting the ancient secrets found in the Old Testament. Weaving the life of Lazarus, who owned a vineyard, into the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ will help you understand it is the hand of Love Divine that holds the knife, that cuts and breaks with such tender and loving touch, and that we who have born some fruit, after the pruning, can bear much more.

My Thoughts

Lazarus. I learned his story when I was a little girl attending Sunday School. I know he was Mary and Martha’s brother and that he was a good friend of Jesus. I knew that Jesus raised him from the dead.

What I did not realize was how very much Jesus must have loved Lazarus, how deep that friendship and love must have been. The Theone’s have done a beautiful job of sharing with us this wonderful story. As I read When Jesus Wept I felt swept back in time, experiencing Jesus ministry from Lazarus’ perspective. We get to experience first hand how It might have been to live during such a tumultuous time. To witness the miracles of Jesus to understand the friendship between Lazarus and Jesus. To hear intimate conversations between Lazarus and Jesus as they walked together though Lazarus’ vineyard and hear Jesus talk about the vine and the fruit. Simply beautiful!

When Jesus Wept is a beautiful story rich with history of the time period. It is a very well researched story! I look forward to more of the Theone’s books!

Visit the litfuse blog to read more about When Jesus Wept.

Meet the Thoenes:

Bodie and Brock Thoene (pronounced Tay-nee) are bestselling authors of over sixty-five works of historical fiction. Their timeless classics have sold more than thirty-five million copies and won eight ECPA Gold Medallion Awards. The Thoenes have four grown children and eight grandchildren. They divide their time between Hawaii, London, and Nevada.

Find out more about Bodie and Brock at http://www.thoenebooks.com/.

disclosure: I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review. No other compensation was received.

Lead Your Family Like Jesus {Book Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 01:46:00 +0000

Lead Your Family Like Jesus: by Ken Blanchard, Phil Hodges & Tricia Goyer

More about Lead Your Family Like Jesus:

Powerful Parenting Principles from the Creator of Families

(Focus on the Family/Tyndale) - Does your family need a five-star general at the helm? A psychologist? A referee? Ken Blanchard, best-selling co-author of The One Minute Manager and Lead Like Jesus, points to a better role model: the Son of God. Joined by veteran parents and authors Phil Hodges and Tricia Goyer, renowned business mentor Blanchard shows how every family member benefits when parents take the reins as servant-leaders. Moms and dads will see themselves in a whole new light-as life-changers who get their example, strength, and joy from following Jesus at home. This user-friendly book's practical principles and personal stories mark the path to a truly Christ-centered family, where integrity, love, grace, self-sacrifice, and forgiveness make all the difference.

My Thoughts:

How do we become the parents that not only teach their children Biblical truths, but model them as well. When I started reading Lead Your Family Like Jesus, I was struck with that thought. How do we teach these principles, how do we show what a servant heart is like? How do we show our children what it is to serve joyfully serve as Jesus did while he was here on earth? How do we bring our children up to love Jesus?

These three authors share four important steps that will help us not only love Jesus, but live for Him and teach our children to love him using our heart, head, hands and habits. Drawing from the parenting experiences, their struggles, their faith they share these important steps and how to implement them in our own families.

Using Jesus as a role model (and what better role model is there), we learn how important it is to focus on the eternal, to be aligned with Jesus and his love for us.

In chapter two Ken shares an acronym EGO for Edging God Out and let me tell you this resonated so much with me! I know I have been very guilty of edging God out with pride and fear. When we edge God out we are separated from Him.

Instead of Edging God Out we should Exalt God Only. Wow. Leading Like Jesus is such a profound and thought provoking book. Filled with wisdom, direction and scriptural references throughout.

I think every parent that wants to raise their children to love Jesus and live as he did should read this book.

You can download a Lead Your Family Like Jesus booklet and worksheet to help you get started Leading Your Family Like Jesus!

Visit the Litfuse website for more information about the Lead Your family Like Jesus tour.

Meet the Authors:

Tricia:

Bestselling author of more than 30 novels, nine nonfiction books, and more than three hundred articles for national publications; 2003 "Writer of the Year" at the Mount Hermon Christian Writer's Conference; popular blog writer, speaker, and radio host

Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com

Ken:

Leadership expert and author of over 50 books, including the New York Times bestseller, The One-Minute Manager; cofounder of Lead Like Jesus; and coauthor of Lead Like Jesus; Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time

Learn more about Ken at www.kenblanchard.com

Phil:

A human resource and industrial relations manager in corporate America for 36 years with Xerox Corporation and U.S. Steel, co- founder of Lead Like Jesus; co-author of five books, including The Servant Leader and Leadership by the Book with Bill Hybels.

Learn more about Phil at www.leadlikejesus.com

Celebrate the release of Lead Your Family Like Jesus with Tricia by entering her iPad Mini Giveaway and RSVPing for the Lead, Momma Lead LIVE Webcast Event (with MomLife Today's Tracey Eyster) on April 16th.

One winner will receive:

An iPad Mini
A Tricia Goyer library

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 15th. Winner will be announced at the "Lead, Momma Lead" Live Webcast Event on April 16th. Connect with authors and everyday moms, Tricia Goyer and Tracey Eyster, for an evening of sharing and perspective-changing encouragement for leading your family. Tricia and Tracey will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books and fun gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Lead Your Family Like Jesus and join Tricia and Tracey on the evening of April 16th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 16th!

disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.

My Blessings…..

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 22:34:00 +0000

Just a little post on this late Saturday afternoon to share my blessings. I originally named my blog My Blessings from Above because of the two most special gifts I have ever received. Justin. Kaden.

Just a bit ago while putting something away in Kaden’s room I happened to look out the window and this is what I saw:

They were laying in the yard talking and looking for four leaf clovers. It was just such a sweet moment I ran for my camera praying they would not get up before I got back. It was a moment I wanted to capture.

When I saw them out there together my heart was just so full of thankfulness to God that we have been blessed with these sweet boys! I think I am the luckiest mom in the world!

Kaden happened to look up so I asked them to give me a smile! They did!

I LOVE THEM!

I am one blessed momma! I do not deserve such blessings, but I am so thankful that God chose us to be their parents.

My prayer is that I never forget how blessed we are!

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. Psalm 100:4

Tales of the Defended Ones {Book Review}

noreply@blogger.com (Michele) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 01:08:00 +0000

Tales of the Defended Ones by Beth Gukenberger

About Tales of the Defended Ones: Ben and Joseph lose heir mothers, but find a family looking just for them. Antonio is rescued from what seems like a hopeless situation. Caitlyn dares to trust that truth will set her free. Jorani is delivered from slavery into the arms of grace.

Follow these real-life stories as they take you on a journey to foreign places and extreme struggles. Travel through their challenges and see the hand of the great Storyweaver - our Defender God shielding and defending the defenseless in the amazing ways only he can.These are the tales of the ones left wounded and weak-ones made whole and strong . . .

My Thoughts

Tales of the Defended Ones is the second book by Beth Guckenberger. I really enjoyed her first book Tales of the Not Forgotten and plan on having my boys read both of these books.

Beth has a heart for children and has been collecting these stories and sharing them through her books. In Tales of the Defended Ones Beth shares about four children who have suffered and struggled in desperate situations. These stories will touch your heart deeply as you see how God moves in the lives of these children and those who love them. It amazes me to see how God works in our lives in so many ways that we truly cannot see and at times do not understand for His purpose.

Tales of the Defended Ones is a wonderful book to read and share with your family.

Stop by the Litfuse website for more about Tales of the Defended Ones.

Meet Beth: Beth Guckenberger and her husband, Todd, are the founders of Back2Back Ministries which communicates a lifestyle of service by sharing the love of Christ and serving God through service to others. Guckenberger travels and speaks regularly at women's and missions conferences, as well as youth gatherings and church services. In addition to her children's releases in the Storyweaver series, Guckenberger has written two mission-minded books. She has also partnered with Standard Publishing on the mission content in its 2013 VBS program. The Guckenberger family lives and serves in Monterrey, Mexico.

Find out more about Beth at http://www.bethguckenberger.com/.

Beth Guckenberger is celebrating the release of her new book in the Storyweaver series, Tales of the Defended Ones, with an iPad giveaway and Facebook party {4/25}.

One fortunate winner will receive:

An iPad Mini
A Tales of the Defended Ones small group kit (books and DVD)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 24th. Winner will be announced at the "Storyweaver" Author Chat Party on April 25th. Beth will be chatting with guests, answering questions, and offering tips about beginning a dialog with children and youth about the orphans around the world, the basic needs of children living in poverty, and what we can all do to help. (It’s okay if you haven’t read the book – who knows, you might WIN a copy!) Beth will also be hosting a fun trivia contest and giving away tons of great stuff! (Gift certificates, books, and more!)

So grab your copy of Tales of the Defended Ones and join Beth and friends on the evening of the April 25th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 25th!

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from Litfuse in exchange for my honest review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.