Growing for Christ - Homeschool Blogger

MamaBuzz Tour: The Ultimate Cloth free offer included

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:50:00 -0600

Are you or have you been trying to find a 'green' way to clean around your home? Or maybe not 'green' but you want to do away with chemicals because a loved one in your house has bad reactions to chemicals and their smells? Well then look no further than the Ultimate Cloth! The Ultimate Cloth is soft so you don't have to worry about scratching surfaces like granite, glass, or even your car or electronics. No chemicals need to be used, just wet the cloth and clean! Yes it really is that simple, just plain water and you can remove dirt, grime and other crud around the house as well as germs! The cloth can be cut without fraying or tearing - which is great if you just need a few smaller cloths for cleaning the tub or sink or wiping up crumbs after lunch or the science experiment gone wrong!

If you're like me and want a way to save money this is an easy way to accomplish that as well. Even the cheapy grocery store brand can cost precious money each year - buying these reusable and washable cloths can end that drain. So simple to use by just wetting it, wringing it, wiping then rinsing (or wash it) and your done. So not only is it chemical free (although you can bleach it if you REALLY wanted to), saves you money but it also cuts cleaning time! What more could a busy and frugal mom want, except maybe a cheaper iced capp, but seriously this would make a great household item to have on hand. The children can even be put to work using this since there isn't a fear of them ingesting or breathing in harsh chemical smells. If you'd like to experience this then keep reading for a FREE offer directly from the people at The Ultimate Cloth!

Price: $6

Media Blurb:
The Ultimate Cloth is eco-friendly solution for homes as well as a money and time saver. The Ultimate Cloth is a brand new technology – in fact, it is the only cloth to receive a new patent in the last 25 years. The Ultimate Cloth is a simple, green and effective one-step cleaning process. The Ultimate Cloth cleans any hard surface – glass, wood, granite, stainless steel and many more – with just water! No longer do you have to use harsh chemicals in your home, nor do you need spend hundreds of dollars per year buying them. The Ultimate Cloth has been lab tested to remove 96% of bacteria, without the use of chemicals. And, can cut 50% off your cleaning time. The Ultimate Cloth is truly the ultimate in green cleaning.

Additional Details to Include in your review:

All of my readers can receive a FREE Ultimate Cloth!

All you need to do is follow Ultimate Cloth America on Twitter or become a fan on facebook:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Ultimate_Cloth
facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ultimate-Cloth-America/209222110335?v=wall&ref=ts

We will reveal how to get the free Ultimate Cloths via Twitter and facebook.

*This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by: Ryan Richardson for The Ultimate Cloth for this review.

**Picture from The Ultimate Cloth website.

MamaBuzz Blog Tour: "When Moms Pray Together" by Fern Nichols (Moms In Touch International)

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:57:00 -0600

This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by: Maggie Rowe at Tyndale Publishing for this review.

"When Moms Pray Together" by Fern Nichols is a book that encourages praying between moms whose children are in school. Even though most of these mom's children are in a traditional brick and mortar school there was much for this homeschooling mom to glean from this book - namely I don't pray enough for my children or at all. I've admitted and I'm ashamed to admit it and I'm glad I had the chance to read this book because it's made me aware that praying for our children wether they are homeschooled or enrolled in a school should be one of our uppermost priorities as moms.

When I started reading this book and how some of these women's children were going astray by getting involved in drugs, promiscuity I thought that this book wouldn't pertain to me because, well, my children won't do that kind of thing. Then as I kept reading I realized that no matter if we homeschool or not that in and of itself won't keep my children pure - only God has that power and I need to lift my children up to Him, the One who gave them to me in the first place. This book made me realize, or maybe just drilled it in a bit more, these aren't my children and God is ultimately in control because they are His - like I am His! He gave these children to me to guide and rear up for Him and that includes me praying for them - no matter is too small. Wether it's my oldest who struggles with being a perfectionish, my youngest who likes to buck authority or my middle daughter who is very strong willed- I need to pray that Satan cannot win this Spiritual battle.

Wonderful use of Scripture throughout the book makes it so much more relevant to the Christian mom who yearns to know more about praying for her children. Just because we homeschool doesn't make us immune and this book makes me realize that I did indeed think it would - but I learned by reading this book that regardless God wants me to use Scripture to pray for my children as well as other mom's children. I and most of my friend's don't have the time to meet weekly at a set date for prayer but we can still be in prayer for each other and our children through emails, phone calls and even Facebook. I was so glad that even if I didn't think I would learn anything from this book I am so blessed that I did!

Product/Book Name:   When Moms Pray Together by Fern Nichols

Ages:    Moms

Price:   $13.99

Put out by: Tyndale

To buy your own copy go to Tyndale's media center. If you'd like more information on the author please visit her author bio page at Tyndale.

If you'd like more information on Moms In Touch International visit the MITI website.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - November 16, 2009

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:30:00 -0600

Outside my window... it's dark out now but it was a wonderfully, warm Autumn day.

I am thinking... how wonderful it is to have lost 16 pounds and God is giving me the ability to go off the diabetic meds.

I am thankful for... my children, three wonderful blessings from the Lord and my husband who is a wonderful provider.

I am wearing... my favorite skirt from CJ Banks, my 20th Anniversary OPAI Nutcracker shirt and brown crocs

I am remembering... the fun of past holidays and how to make wonderful holiday memories with my family now

I am going... to go to my tap dance class tomorrow and have reviews to do.

I am reading... When Moms Pray Together by Fern Nichols, Love Finds You in Lonesome Prairie Montana by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss

I am hoping... to get my inlaws Christmas present finished by Wednesday and start my mom's present

On my mind... the reviews I need to get done and balancing that with family life

From the learning rooms... struggling to stay focused amidst bronchitis and the holidays coming up

Noticing that... I need to study God's Word more

Pondering these words... hmmmmm, nothing right now

From the kitchen... BLT's for dinner

Around the house... trying to get school done as well as housework

One of my favorite things... reading to my children while cuddled on the couch.

From my picture journal...
A beautiful sunset:

Timberdoodle Police Blockade Game - MamaBuzz Tour

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:25:00 -0600

I'm always on the lookout for new educational games and when I had the chance to review Police Blockade for Timberdoodle through MamaBuzz reviews then I jumped at the chance! My children have played this online before but with a different objective and so I thought they would have fun with this - I was very happy when this thought came to fruition. Timberdoodle sells quality homeschool and educational supplies and materials for all ages! As soon as I recieved the package the children were into it and fascinated by it - my husband is quoted as saying "this is AWESOME!" He is quickly working his way through to master level and my 5 year old is becoming fast at figuring out the solutions as well. My 7 year old has sat for an hour and played this game of logic and my 3 year old likes to just play with it as he builds a city. This would be a wonderful gift for Christmas and disguised as a toy this wonderful educational tool is so much fun!

Here is more information from the Timberdoodle site:

Police Blockade
Sirens screaming and tires screeching, there is nothing like a little police actionto liven up a road trip. Police Blockade lets you keep it legal but is just as exciting.

Your Job: Block Him
An elegant red sports carhas been stolen and the police force is scrambling to jam every escape route. As police chief, your child will be asked to coordinate all available units in order to prevent a getaway. His career is on the line; can he block the perpetrator's escape and avoid unnecessary bloodshed?

60 Challenges!
With 60 fast-paced easy to expert challenges he will have plenty of chances for a "do over"! For 1 player. Includes game board, clear plastic lid, one red sports car, six police cars, and four sets of buildings, game booklet, and a nifty elastic band to hold it all together.

Logic, Thinking Skills, Visual Perception...
This one-player game develops logical reasoning, builds higher cognitive thinking, and strengthens visual and spatial perception. It is self-contained, includes solutions, and makes an ideal travel companion. Plus, it offers an amazing amount of fun for all ages!

Game includes:
·   Game board
·   60 puzzles with four levels of difficulty
·   One red sports car
·   Six police cars
·   Four sets of buildings
·   Solution booklet

Publisher: Educational Insights
Ages: 7+
Time To Play: 5-20 minutes
Players: 1

The spiral bounded book with set up, directions and solutions is well made and will hold up for hours of play even by some of the roughest children - my 3 year old is VERY hard on his toys and the book has held up very well as has the band that holds the entire set together. There is nothing violent about this game and doesn't deal with anything that some would find objectionable like violence, crime and bloodshed. With the band that holds it all together, it can be taken in the vehicle and transported easily and without losing pieces - which will keep the children entertained for hours. With 60 puzzles this game can go on for hours, I would like to see if there were more puzzles online though to keep the game going.

**This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by: Timberdoole for this review.

Five Star Finger Puppets - MamaBuzz Tour

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:07:00 -0600

Christmas is around the corner and if you're like me you may be wanting to avoid the commercialism that can occur in the stores and shopping online can seem like a way to avoid all that. If you want a gift that children will enjoy and also be educational and fun then Five Star Publications can help. These are a set of 5 finger puppets that children will use over and over and not thrown away after getting broken or losing interest plus they are intriguing enough that if they don't get the latest or greatest 'new' toy they won't be too upset.

Here is what I recieved in the email regarding the Five Star Publications finger puppets: " Parents and teachers looking to inspire children to read more – and have more fun while doing it – get a hand with Five Star Finger Puppets. Handmade in the U.S. with soft, durable, hand-washable yarn, they are child safe with no removable parts and come in packages of five that include owl, snake, child, dog and cat characters. Retail: $12.95."

My children really enjoy these finger puppets and while they fit their fingers they also fit mine - so if you're a homeschooling parent these would make a wonderful addition to story time with your children. If you do unit studies based on living books - these puppets make a wonderful way for the story to come 'alive'. Of course they are also good for just imaginative play time, as most children enjoy using their imagination and it allows for brain development as well.

The puppets are soft and I would have no problem letting a young child play with these as there are no small, loose parts that could pose a choking hazard. The fact that they are also washable is a great benefit with young children so that if they get dropped on the ground (or in a food dish) they can be easily washed and then played with again. Simply put them in a mesh laundry bag (I suggest this so they don't end up like those missing socks) and throw in the washer. I definitely would recommend these for a nice Christmas present or even as a home school material that is well worth it.

Again you can find these at Five Star Publications website along with books and other gifts.

*The picture above is from the Five Star Publications website.

** This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by: Five Star Publications for this review.

Sewing and field trip to the Resevoir

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 09:09:00 -0600

A few months ago I won a pattern from Squiggly Twigs Designs to make a 3 tiered twirly, girly skirt. I was so happy as I've seen these sold in stores and ebay for ....um....lots of money so I got a free pattern and let the girls pick out some tutti fruitti fabric at JoAnn's. Thanks to a friend, I was finally able to make Hannah's plus I have enough fabric left to make some scrunchies for her to match (I'm thinking a nice stocking stuffer for Christmas) Anyway here is pictures of the skirt:

Last week we took a field trip to the local Resevoir where there are several hiking trails, fishing areas and other items of interest to see and do. We stopped by the visitor center to get permission from a Ranger to collect some items to include for the art scavenger hunt. The visitor center has many hands on educational items for the children to do so we did some of those and then went on our hike. We found nuts, seed pods, leaves, twigs and we also saw several fresh deer tracks, a half eaten 'money brain' fruit which looked like we interrupted something's breakfast. Below are some pictures of what we found including the Honey Locust tree which has the needle like thorns on it's trunk.

This fish was in a tank in the visior's center. Part of the scavenger hunt was to find a live fish - it didn't specify if it had to be in a tank or body of water. By the way our 'art' lesson turned into science and math as well - I love homeschooling!

I will be doing a different post with some other things we've done lately - but I don't want to overwhelm one post with a bunch of pictures so I'll spread it out. I hope you enjoyed 'seeing' our field trip!

Kathy Carlton Willis Communications "Set Apart" Bible Study blog tour!

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 07:07:00 -0600

About the Book:

(Marion, Kentucky) - In a world of self-love and materialism it's reassuring to know that God's Word has a better plan for living. Renowned author and speaker, Jennifer Kennedy Dean, provides insight to the life of Christ, specifically the Sermon on the Mount, in her new book, Set Apart: A 6 Week Study of the Beatitudes.

Through careful study of the Hebrew traditions of biblical times, Dean leads participants into a deeper awareness of this early ministry sermon series by Christ.

Jennifer guides readers to a heightened understanding of each beatitude, correlating the Ten Commandments with the Sermon on the Mount to tie these Old and New Testament principles together. Dean shares how living the Set Apart Life is an exciting and life-changing spiritual journey. Participants surrendered to Christ will see a total transformation: outward actions of holiness as well as inward attitudes of joy. Believers following along in this workbook will experience the life God intends. This blessedness comes from seeking and knowing God. Anything outside the realm of Jesus Christ results in emptiness--the ultimate opposite of blessing.

Each chapter includes interactive questions for readers to answer, emphasizing God's desire to reproduce the character and attitudes of Jesus in each Christian's life. Along with the Bible study book, there is a Leader Kit that includes six DVD sessions and a CD with bonus material for small-group leaders. Jennifer's website, www.prayinglife.org, provides opportunities for previewing the Set Apart materials and extra resources for pastors and leaders.

About the Author:

Jennifer Kennedy Dean is Executive director of The Praying Life Foundation and a respected author and speaker. She is the author of numerous books, studies, and magazine articles specializing in prayer and spiritual formation. Her book Heart’s Cry has been named National Day of Prayer’s signature book. You’ll find articles and daily quotes from Jennifer at the National Day of Prayer website. Her book, Live a Praying Life, has been called a flagship work on prayer.

Jennifer was widowed in 2005 after 26 years of marriage to Wayne Dean, her partner both in life and ministry. They are the parents of three grown sons. Jennifer makes her home in Marion, KY.

An Interview with Jennifer Kennedy Dean

You are known for your extensive research and your fresh insights. Do you have a method for gleaning new concepts?

Of course, the truths are not new, but I think I sometimes am able to frame old truths in new ways. I always find that when I put the words of Jesus into their original Hebraic setting and experience the scene through the viewpoint of His real-time audience, some new little fragment of truth finds its way into my thinking. I like to let the Scripture breathe. To let it sit in my heart until its full aroma has time to emerge. There's the hard-core research, and then there's the marinating. Turn your imagination loose and unfurl your curiosity, and listen to the living Word.

You have a series of Bible studies in the format of Set Apart, designed to be interactive. This series of studies has video series and leader's kits available. What is the advantage to this kind of format?

I try to produce a new Bible study with video series every year. I like the interactive format because I like to pull the reader into the Scripture to experience the Word. I like to challenge the reader to interact with the thoughts and ideas and to take the time to absorb them and apply them, rather than just to read. The other thing I like about this format is that it can be done by an individual, or as a group. In the video series, I like to be able to teach the main points of the material and set the learners' up for a productive week of personal study. I love feeling like I get to be part of your Bible study group! The kits have lots of other resources for leading a small group in the study.

Several of your studies have theme songs that go with them, as Set Apart does. How do these songs come about?

I have developed a song-writing relationship with a talented musician named Roxanne Lingle. I write poems, we turn them into lyrics, Roxanne composes and arranges the music, and Roxanne records the songs. For Set Apart, we have the theme song in the form of a music video, which is a new addition. In the leader's kit you have the audio track, accompaniment track, lead sheet, and the music video. The theme song becomes an important and worshipful part of the study experience.

Here is an interactive video commentary about the Bible Study.

Here is the music video for the Bible study.

GRAND PRIZE DRAWING

Please leave a comment to be entered in a drawing to win the following items from Jennifer. If you are a leader (small groups, book club, Bible Study, Women's Ministry), please note that you are--you will automatically be entered in the contest. If you are a member of one of these groups at your church or community, mention that you are a group member.

You will be entered to win:
A Set Apart Leader's Kit (video and leader resources and a student book) retail $79.99
A copy of Fueled by Faith (retail $19.99)
Jennifer will have a live web event just for your group

Kathy Carlton Willis Communication Christmas Miracles blog tour!!!

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:38:00 -0600

(Atlanta, GA) Many ordinary people experience Christmas miracles—those special moments during the season of giving and receiving when Christmas becomes more than just a holiday. In Christmas Miracles (St. Martin’s Press, October 2009), Cecil Murphey and Marley Gibson share the stories of those who have recognized the special moments that transcend daily experience and transform their lives.
In these stories, people overcome desperate situations through a miraculous twist of fate—all during the most wonderful time of the year. A young boy sits down to read a Christmas book and discovers that his learning disability has vanished. A woman stranded in a blizzard is rescued by a mysterious stranger who she suspects is an angel. And a woman living far from home gets an answer to her prayer in the form of an unexpected gift.

Bestselling author Cecil Murphey says, “We all face discouraging times, whether it's the lack of money, being stuck on a road in a snowstorm, feeling stress, or being hungry and homeless. But God's help is available. I want readers to see that miracles do happen—sometimes simple, unexpected blessings or those that involve the supernatural. We start by asking, and in strange and wonderful ways God tiptoes into our dark nights; we experience renewed joy in life and witness God in action through people and unexpected events.”

Interview with Cecil “Cec” Murphey
by Marley Gibson
Co-authors of Christmas Miracles, from St. Martin’s Press

I am extremely privileged to have the opportunity today to talk to my friend and co-author, Cecil “Cec” Murphey, and to chat about our upcoming book, Christmas Miracles.

Marley: Cec, thanks for spending some time with me today.

Cec: Marley, it's great that you could take time away from important things like making a living to spend a little time with me.

Marley: I’m so jazzed about our Christmas Miracles book that’s coming out soon. I’ve had a lot of questions from folks wanting to know how we met, what brought us together, etc. So, I thought we’d do a back and forth on how it all came to be. Of course, I have to give props to our amazing agent and friend, Deidre Knight, for bringing us together. For those of you who don’t know, Cec co-authored the runaway New York Times bestselling hit 90 Minutes in Heaven with Don Piper.

Cec: I have to say thanks to Deidre Knight as well. Between Deidre and my assistant, Twila Belk, I've been able to sell quite a few books. 90 Minutes in Heaven has been my big book. I'm also proud of a book I wrote in 1990 called Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story. The book has never been out of print and has hit close to four million in sales. Early this year, Cuba Gooding Jr. starred in the made-for-TV film version.

Marley: That’s amazing! You are truly prophetic and definitely “the man behind the words.” Now, people ask how we teamed up. Sadly, there was a personal tragedy that brought Cec and me together as friends.

Cec: True. In early 2007, our house burned and our son-in-law died. Aside from the grief over Alan, we lost everything. Deidre and Jan, my-then-assistant, sent the word out of our tragedy without telling me. I'm immensely grateful for every gift people sent, but I probably wouldn't have admitted I needed help and wouldn't have asked. They taught me how much we need other people.

Marley: Deidre put out a call to other clients of The Knight Agency, to help Cec and his family out in any way in their time of need. At the time, my company was moving and we were cleaning house. We had a ton of office supplies that we were either going to throw away or give to some of the charities the company worked with. I got my boss’ permission to send a large care package to Cec…full of office supplies for him to re-stock his writer’s office. You name it…post-its, staples, paper clips, pens, pencils, markers, white out, ruler, scissors, paper, notebooks, notepads, envelopes, a laptop case, tape, glue, folders, binder clips…etc. A veritable potpourri of office delights. I was hoping that it would help Cec have a sense of getting his office back so he could keep working.

Cec: Marley's gift was the most unexpected I received. We hadn't met, although Deidre Knight had spoken of her many times and kept telling me she was wonderful. I wonder if you can imagine what it was like for me to open that box from someone I didn't know. I saw all those practical things for my office and yelled for my wife. I felt as if I were reading a first-grade book. "Look! Look and see! Oh, look!" I was overwhelmed by the gift and even more to receive it from a stranger. Those supplies were the most practical gift anyone could have given me. I'm still using black paper clips and red folders from Marley.

Marley: Awww…thanks, Cec! I didn’t have to think twice about doing it. Writing is such a solitary “sport,” but the writing community always astounds me with how they help their own. Not long after that, over plates of spinach and Gouda omelets, Deidre introduced me to Cec in person and I was thrilled to finally meet the man behind the words. Deidre knew we needed to work on a project together and thus began our brainstorming. What did you think of that first meeting, Cec, and cooking up the idea to work together?

Cec: Deidre and I had already spoken about a Christmas book and I had some idea about what it should contain, but nothing had come together. One day Deidre told me that Marley was coming to visit her and she wanted us to work together on a Christmas project. Marley and I talked before we ate and again during the meal. Everything felt right to me. I knew my strengths and Marley knew hers (and Deidre knew both of us). Everything clicked. Marley, a far better networker than I am, immediately sent out the word for submissions. Within days she had almost four times more than we could use. (She read every one of them!)

Marley: I was truly impressed with the submissions we received and it was hard narrowing it down to the ones we chose for the book. We’re fortunate to have such a go-getter agent in Deidre Knight. Cec, can you share how the whole idea of Christmas Miracles came about and what you thought of the project originally?

Cec: For me, it actually started while I was on the rapid-rail train from the Atlanta airport when I listened to teens talk about Christmas and it was mostly about gifts. I had the idea then, but nothing really came together. Months later when Deidre I and had a meeting, she brought up the idea of a compilation and mentioned my working with Marley. I've been Deidre Knight's client since 1997 and I've learned to listen carefully when she comes up with an idea. I said yes before she gave me all the information.

Marley: That’s the truth about Deidre! Getting back to those submissions, I want to say we got more than two hundred submissions for Christmas Miracles. So many wonderful stories to read through and select for the book. It was a challenge to pick and choose which ones were right for the book, but I loved every minute of it. After I chose the entries that would go into the book, Cec toiled long hours editing the works for a unified voice. What was the biggest challenge you found in the editing process, Cec?

Cec: I've been a ghostwriter and collaborator for twenty-plus years and this was a switch to give the book a unified voice—which was mine. It would have been easier to stay with each writer's voice, but the book—like many compilations—would have been uneven in tone and quality. When I discussed this via email with our delightful editor, Rose Hilliard, she was (to my surprise) familiar with my work. She told me she liked the warm tone of my writing and that I don't waste words. "That's the voice we want," she said. It still wasn't easy, but it was an exciting challenge. After Marley and I agreed on the stories and gave them that unified voice, our editor pulled six contributions. Although different, Rose felt they were too similar to other stories.

Marley: Can you give our readers a preview of the book? A favorite story perhaps…or one that moved you to tears? (I have to say the little boy who wished for nothing but to be able to read a book all the way through because of his stutter had me bawling when I read the submission.)

Cec: That's not fair! I liked them all. The one that touched me most, however, is the last story in the book, "Sean's Question." We had almost finished the book and I was teaching at a conference in Florida. I felt we needed one strong story at the end. Despite all the good ones, I didn't feel fully satisfied to conclude the book. On the last day of the conference, I met a conferee named Sara Zinn for a consultation. As we talked, I mentioned Christmas Miracles and that I still needed one more story. "I have a Christmas story," she said and told me about Sean. As I listened, tears filled my eyes—but, being the macho type I am, I was sure it was an allergy. Sara wrote the story, and it became the one I sought.

Marley: Oh yes…that one is an emotional one all right. It was meant to be in the book because of how you met at the conference. Now, you and I have both had challenges in our lives that others might have found too much to take, but we are both very strong in our faith and our relationship with God. How do you think Christmas Miracles is going to help others feel closer to God and experience His miracles in their own lives?

Cec: Awareness and appreciation are the two things I want readers to grasp. Awareness means for them to realize that they're never totally alone in life. Those unexpected, out-of-the-ordinary events remind us of that. Appreciation means to be thankful for what we already have. Too often, and especially at Christmas, we focus on what we'd like or what is supposed to make us happy. Christmas Miracles gently reminds readers of both.

Marley: In this day and age when our country is fighting two wars, unemployment is high, and a lot of people have a lack of hope and faith for their future, what do you want readers of the book to take away from Christmas Miracles and how can the stories in our book help provide comfort to those struggling?

Cec: I want readers to see that miracles do happen—sometimes simple, unexpected blessings or those that involve the supernatural (as in one of Marley's stories). I call myself a serious Christian. For me, the world's greatest miracle began with the birth of Jesus. Regardless of a person's religion, this book encourages readers to think about life during the Christmas season and see that life as more than gifts and celebrations. It's also a reminder that God loves us and hears our needy cries.

Marley: Beautifully put, Cec, and I couldn’t agree with you more. Can we share what’s next after Christmas Miracles? J

Cec: Why it's the Cec and Marley show, of course. Because of our go-getter agent and our enthusiastic editor, we've already received thumbs up for The Christmas Spirit. This will be stories of people who express the true spirit of Christmas by acts of love and kindness, for release in the fall of 2011.

Marley: And I can’t wait to start working on that project! Thank you so much for your time, Cec, and answering my questions. It was a privilege and honor to work with you and I look forward to our future projects together. You’ve helped me along during a trying time and I appreciate your friendship and support.

Cec: I liked this project because Marley had to send out the word, collect submissions, read them, and discard the weaker ones. I get to see only the better-written stories. (Don't tell her that I have the better job.) Although I mentioned only one story, all of those in the book touched me because of the poignancy of their situations and the miraculous answers. I won't say the stories increased my faith, but they increased my appreciation for the delightful mix of human need and divine intervention.

Marley: Thanks again, Cec! God Bless! And to our readers, please be sure to pick up a copy of CHRISTMAS MIRACLES, out October 13, 2009 from St. Martin’s Press. It’s a great stocking stuffer or gift basket filler. We hope you, too, will discover your own Christmas Miracles in your life.

Leave a comment for a chance to win the Christmas Miracles gift basket.
Wouldn’t you love to take home this amazing basket filled with Christmas goodies galore? This amazing gift basket contains everything you’ll need to make your Christmas holiday a success. Inside you’ll find a stocking stuffed with hard candies, kitchen towels and oven mitts, seasonal potpourri, holiday-colored candles, stuffed animals that talk, snowman candle, nutcrackers, Christmas ornaments, gift bags, gift tags, gift bows, ornament hangers, Christmas cookie cutters, a Merry Christmas doorstopper, a picture frame, Christmas cards, Santa ear muffs, and not just one, but two copies of Cecil Murphey and Marley Gibson’s Christmas Miracles – one to keep and one to give away to someone special.

MamaBuzz Tour: "Mothering Heights" by Keitha Smith and Susan Brereton

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 18:27:00 -0600

This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by: Judson Press for this review.

Author Information:

Susan Brereton is a former New Zealand resident currently living in England. She is a wife, mother of five children, and an interior designer. For many years, Susan has run a Bible study for mothers of preschool children, and has had a long association with the Navigators and Moms-in-Touch.

Keitha Smith lives in New Zealand with her husband and two children, including one with special needs. With a background in training and education, Keitha leads the women's ministry group at her church and serves on the local school's board of trustees.
Check out Keitha's fictional Mother's Prayer Blog ,The Jonah Tree. Also visit www.MotheringHeights.org.

My opinion:

"Mothering Heights" was a quick read that was enjoyable even if I didn't agree with everything that the authors wrote about. I liked the fact that several classic books were used to glean knowledge from such as Pride and Prejudice, Pilgrim's Progess and several others. The quotes used from the books were very much aligned with the theme of the book, mothering.

Using Scripture Smith and Brereton do back up their writing with Biblical basis - again some of their applications of Scripture were not what I had interpreted them to be but I definitely did find myself gleaning some inspiration from the book. This book was not geared toward moms who homeschool and it does include several mentions of having alone time and how good that is for the mom - one of the things I disagree with - but I can't throw the baby out with the bath water - because overall this book was loaded with uplifting writings to speak to the heart of a mom.

Wether you are a first time mom or a mom three times over this book will have something to speak to your heart. With study questions that can help to see how you view motherhood and your expectations of others, it could be used as a guided Bible study as well. Again it's a fast read which any mom will appreciate and the insight in the book will be well worth the time that it takes to read it.

Price: $15.00

Available at Judson Press. A sample chapter is available at the mothering heights website.

School updates

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 07:44:00 -0600

Well we've been having lots of fun with school - I love doing school during the holidays as it really gives us more to study and do. With my husband having gone to the ER by squad on October 29th and staying until late Saturday the 31st, we've been very, very busy. Thankfully we haven't been sick, sick. Two of the children do have stuffy noses and I'm thinking it's more allergies than an actual cold so we're continuing life as normal. The girls and I continue to be busy with our Nutcracker rehearsals and this weekend marks every weekend rehearsals from now until the show!! My surgery is rescheduled for the day after Thanksgiving - and yes I'm still mulling over how to get in some after Thanksgiving sales LOL Anyway on to some pictures of school from about two weeks ago.

Bethanne studied Madeline and she started her first lapnote for this and she really enjoyed feeling like her big sister.

One of the projects she did was a Madeline 'doll' using a toiler paper roll.

Both girls with Bethanne's finished Madeline 'doll'

I don't have pictures of Hannah's lapnote so I'll take pictures later to show about J is for Japan unit. We did study the solar system and we made her own solar system which lost air very fast with a little boy who thought the planets were fun to squash so now all we have is pictures. Pluto is there, we had to draw it in - it's to the right of the blue balloon.

Here is some bread and cookies I've baked and frozen. The bread is pumpkin bread and the cookies are pumpkin chocolate chip cookies.

And just because I can't leave my little guy out, here is a picture of Christian.

There will be more pictures coming from our field trip to Carriage Hill Farm - a historic working farm and other pictures of our school year so far. I'm working on updating as our days get back to normal.

The Call of Zulina by Kay Marshall Strom BLOG TOUR

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:01:00 -0500

About the Book:

(Eugene, Oregon) – An arranged marriage, a runaway bride, and an ugly family heritage of brutal and inhumane slavery operations leave no room for a fairytale story. Grace Winslow, daughter of an English sea captain and African princess, finds herself in a horrific position of betrothal. Doomed to marry an obnoxious white man, whom she does not love, Grace runs away to escape the slavery she’s been surrounded by all her life. Instead, her journey from home brings her face-to-face with issues of extreme slavery, abuse and human trafficking. In the end she discovers slavery is more than just chains and finds grace that exceeds a name given to her by her parents.

Written by Kay Marshall Strom, The Call of Zulina links historical slavery issues with the modern-day crisis tainting many countries. On the heels of important legislature regarding human trafficking, Strom tackles the subject boldly as she sheds light on the practices and techniques used by angry slave traders. Seen as an advocate for those who have no voice, Strom finds words to communicate the message of history to today’s readers. While this book shines the light on an uncomfortable subject, the message of hope, freedom, and justice prevail and eternal truths discovered.

About the Author:

Author Kay Marshall Strom has two great loves: writing and helping others achieve their own writing potential. Kay has written thirty-six published books, numerous magazine articles, and two screenplays. While mostly a nonfiction writer, the first book of her historical novel trilogy Grace in Africa has met with acclaim. Kay speaks at seminars, retreats, writers’ conferences, and special events throughout the country and around the world. She is in wide demand as an instructor and keynote speaker at major writing conferences. She also enjoys speaking aboard cruise ships in exchange for exotic cruise destinations.

Blog Tour Interview:

1. How did you come up with the storyline of The Call of Zulina?
While in West Africa working on another project, I toured an old slave fortress and was struck dumb by a set of baby manacles bolted to the wall. The characters of Lingongo and Joseph Winslow, Grace's parents, are modeled after real people who ran a slave business in Africa in the 1700s. I "met" them when I was researching Once Blind: The Life of John Newton, a biography of the slaver turned preacher and abolitionists, author of Amazing Grace. The more I thought about them, the more I wondered, "If they'd had a daughter, who would she be? Where would her loyalties lie?"
2. What inspired you to write a book so entrenched with uncomfortable issues?
I used to think that non-fiction was the meat and potatoes of writing and fiction was the chocolate mousse dessert... fun, but not of much value. But I've come to understand that truths can be revealed through fiction just as powerfully as through non-fiction. Sometimes, more so! The fact is, for so long we have tried to look away and pretend that this horrible chapter in history never happened. But it did, and we still feel the effects today. Moreover, the roots of slavery--hunger for power and money, fear and diminishment of people unlike ourselves, and humanity's endless ability to rationalize evil actions--abound today. The time seemed right.
3. How haveyour travels around the world equipped you for writing such a historical novel?
People ask me where my passion for issues such as modern day slavery come from. To a large degree it is from the things I have seen and heard on my numerous trips to India, African countries, Cambodia, Nepal, Indonesia, and other places around the world.
4. Tell us a personal story regarding modern day slavery.
A most pervasive type of slavery is what is known as bonded servitude, where entire poor families are bound into virtual slavery--sometimes for generations--because of a small debt. This is especially common in India. I visited a village in central India where the women had been freed from bondage and set up with a micro loan that allowed them to raise a small herd of dairy cows. They worked so hard and saved every rupee. When they had enough saved, they persuaded a young teacher to come and start a school for their children. Then they used further profits to make low interest loans to others in the area so they could start their own businesses, too--a little bank. I sat in a circle with the five women who made up the "board of directors." Only one could read and write. I asked, "How will the next generation be different because of what you have done?" They said, "No more will be like us. When people look us, they see nothing. But when they look at our children, they see real human beings with value."
From invisible slaves to human beings... all in one generation!
5. Grace, the lead character in The Call of Zulina, forsakes all to escape the slavery of her parents and an arranged marriage.How common is this scenerio today in other countries?
Horrifyingly common. Slavery today takes many forms. According to UNICEF's more conservative count, there are about 12 million people living as slaves today--three times as many as in the days of the African slave trade. As for child arranged marriages, I have talked to girls "enslaved" to husbands in many countries. Examples include a girl in Nepal married at 9 to a middle-aged man, one in India married at 11, a 13-year-old in Egypt married to a man older than her father. I've seen it in Africa, Eastern Europe... so many places!
6. What about in America, are there slavery and trafficking issues here?
Unfortunately, there are. The U.S. State Department estimates between 14,500 and 17,500 people are trafficked into the Untied States each year, although it concedes that the real number is actually far higher. And it's not just states like New York and California that are affected, either. According to the U.S. Justice Department's head of the new human trafficking unit, there is now at least one case of trafficking in every state.
7. You've had 36 books published, and more written and contracted for future release. How has this one impacted your own life?
Some books report, some tell stories. This book has torn my heart.
8. Briefly tell us about the next two books in this Grace in Africa trilogy.
In Book 2, Grace watches her reconstructed life smashed by slavers and revenge, and she is forcibly taken to London. There she faces a new kind of tyranny and another fight for freedom... and for her husband, who is enslaved in America.
Book 3 is set in the new United States of America, in the heart of the slavery. It is a story of slavery at it's worst and redemption at its best
 
What Can Concerned Citizens Do to Raise Awareness?
Find out all you can about Modern Day Slavery: then watch for chances to pass on what you have learned.
Write to your elected officials: Petition them to place a high priority on enforcing anti-slavery laws and to put pressure on countries that tolerate forced labor or human trafficking.
Buy Fair Trade products: Fair trade provides a sustainable model of international trade based on economic justice. To find out more, see http://www.fairtrade.net/ .
Support organizations that are in a position to make a difference. When you find an one that is doing a good job on the front lines, contribute to their cause so they can continue on.
Be willing to step into the gap. If you suspect someone is being held against his or her will, call the Department of Justice hotline: 1-888-428-7581. Or you can call 911.

Giveaway!!!

Kay Marshall Strom is giving the following books to one fortunate commenter from The Call of Zulina blog tour. The prize package includes several of Kay's books:

Seeking Christ: A Christian Woman's Guide to Personal Wholeness & Spiritual Maturity
John Newton:The Angry Sailor
Making Friends with Your Mother
Making Friends with Your Father

Fire Station Field Trip - October 2nd

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:53:00 -0500

I'm behind - with my job as mom, wife and reviewer (LOL). We've been very busy and actually updating my blog with our family and school stuff has taken a back seat these past couple of weeks. We took a field trip with our homeschool group to the Fire Station where one of the dads in our group works. We had a long but very fun and learning-full day!

The children were able to get hold a hose and turn the water on and off. Surprisingly Christian did not want to participate but the girls sure did!

We also had the chance to see the firemen work together while using the hose. I was telling the girls that this is how we did it in the Navy. There was no specified firefighters onboard my ship so everyone onboard was a firefighter and the left hand would hold the hose and the right hand would be on the person's shoulder in front you. This way you'd know if you lost a person, there were signals for getting out, running out of oxygen, etc. The firemen didn't really explain this to our group so it was nice to know what they were doing and be able to tell my children. Some departments may do it differently or for different reasons but that was how it was done in the Navy.

Then they were allowed to get on the rescue truck, you know the one, with the jaws of life and all the equipment medics and firemen need to get you out of your home or car quickly. Christian began crying when he got left on there by himself as the other children exited - it was quite a site seeing me climbing up the truck in my dress with the wind blowing heartily! I tried to snap Christian's picture before he started crying but I didn't have success.

We also listened to a talk about fire and CO2 detectors and how important they are. Also the fire fighter had the children answer questions about fire safety and talk about the need for an escape and meeting plan for each family. He showed us his gear as well.

The children were also allowed in the medic unit (what we commonly call the ambulance) but due to all the children it was hard to get good pictures and I don't want to inadvertently post pictures of another's child without them knowing first. This was a great way to begin Fire Safety month as well as meet our safety requirements for our school year.

Cooper Bookmarks from Five Star Publications

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:43:00 -0500

I'm a sucker for anything book related and my oldest daughter is becoming the same way, much to my happiness. When I had the chance to review Five Star Publications' cooper bookmarks, I had to jump at it. There are three different designs to choose from, paw print, angel and star - my daughter choose the paw print style. I was very impressed with the desgin of these bookmarks - usually I can't stand to use these kind and prefer sticky notes or the flat, paper kind of bookmarks but these were wonderfully useful.

Usually with these types of bookmarks I find that the book's binding becomes warped with the usage but with these bookmarks I found that the spine of my and my daughter's books did not become broken or any in way warped. This is a definite plus for any book worm who enjoys keeping their books binding intact for future reading. Five Star Publications' bookmarks are made with high quality cooper and Swarovski crystals and pearls to finish off the beautiful, elegant look that will please any book worm!

These bookmarks are wonderful and perfect for gift giving and with Christmas and Hanukkah right around the corner these are priced just right for a loved one or friend without breaking the bank. Even if you don't know of anyone who enjoys reading these would also make a ideal way to add a special touch to a Christmas tree or decorate anything that the bookmarks could hang from. So I do recommend these bookmarks for anyone who is wanting an economical way (i.e. these wouldn't have to be thrown away since they got torn) to do gift giving this year or at any time, birthdays, baptisms and more. At $11.95 it's a great way to give someone (or yourself) a high quality, beautiful gift.

This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by: Five Star Publications for this review.

Kiss Me Again by Barbara Wilson blog tour not for young, unmarried women

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:05:00 -0500

Summary:

Many married women genuinely want to feel more desire toward their husbands. But while sex before marriage was hard to resist, now resisting seems like all they do. In her new book, Barbara Wilson shows how couples can suffer for years from the “invisible bonds” of previous relationships without even knowing it. Hidden emotions of distrust, shame, and resentment can sabotage even the most loving marriage.

In Kiss Me Again, Wilson:

·        Shares her own story of healing and renewed desire
·        Helps women forgive themselves and their husbands for past choices
·        Shows readers how to break free from “invisible bonds”
·        Explains God’s plan for helping a husband and wife to re-bond
·        Includes conversation helps for both wives and their husbands
·        Helps couples reignite the passion that they thought was lost

With assessment tools, write-in exercises, and gentle guidance, Kiss Me Again offers a biblical plan for rekindling the closeness and passion women long for in marriage. Because no past is beyond the reach of God’s healing touch.

Author Bio:

Barbara Wilson is the author of The Invisible Bond and former director of sexual health education for the Alternatives Pregnancy Resource Center in Sacramento. She speaks nationwide to youth and adults with her message of sexual healing, and she teaches frequently in the women’s ministry at the multi-campus Bayside Church in Northern California. Barbara and her husband, Eric, have been married for twenty-eight years.

If you are interested in purchasing this book please visit Random House's website.

My opinion:

Kiss Me Again by Barbara Wilson is an excellent resource for married women or those about to become married who want God to heal from their sexual past. Wether it was abuse, rape or consensual Barbara takes women through steps to healing their relationships with their husbands to make their relationship more enjoyable and pleasing to God.

Using Biblical applications and Scripture references she offers a no holds bar approach in her writing about past relationships. Sex before marriage goes against God and His establishment of what marriage is for - and bonding happens with each encounter that occurs before marriage - bonds that need broken so that a wife can fully enter into a physical relationship with her husband. Wether you're a newlywed, a couple who has been married for 10 years or 50 if you want to fully bond with your husband and be released from Satan's guilt of your past then Barbara Wilson's book is for you.

I loved the fact that she gives many Scriptures for backing up her healing points, which only adds to the comfort feeling of God's love despite the sin. She also uses quotes from other authors who are known in the marriage field - which helped to reiterate her points. I could have done without quotes from one particular author but the quotes she used flowed with her writing even though i don't agree with him or his teachings. overall this book is a wonderful read and one that can bring healing to the wife and even be used by the husband for combined healing.

Guest commenter

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:58:00 -0500

I wanted to say a big Hi - to my guest commenter - 'Santa' . I trust you

are having a wonderful time in Ohio with your dearest Mrs. Claus! May

God bless you as you deliver toys to the children who believe in you!

A post on comments

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:25:00 -0500

As a blogger, I enjoy getting comments. Also I understand that with me putting my thoughts, beliefs and such out into the blog-o-sphere I do open myself up to comments from those who may not agree with me or who want to take a less than upright approach. I don't ask everyone agree with me, however I do expect respect in comments left here - just as anyone would want respect on their blog or in their homes. When you step onto my blog you are in a way stepping into my life and family - so please don't leave comments that could offend me or my other readers.

I do track IP addresses so I will know where the comments are coming from even if they leave a comment Anon or a fake name. I will know if you are in Ohio or out of state or working at an area hospital. This blog is about my life in having a relationship with Jesus and our experiences in home schooling, home making, reviews from a Christian viewpoint, and others. Please think before leaving a comment if you wouldn't say it to my face then don't leave it here. If you would say it to my face then you should rethink before you open your mouth. The old saying "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt" is not true so please keep that in mind. Words have the power to anger, sadden, and many other feelings.

This is all to say, please think before leaving a comment - I and my other readers will appreciate it. I also reserve the right to delete any comments that I deem inappropriate.

Winner!!

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:04:00 -0500

My husband by way of very scientific and mathematical methods picked a number last night, the number was 7!! So Kathleen is the winner, I am waiting for her to contact me :)

Giveaway! The Sound of Sleigh Bells by Cindy Woodsmall CLOSED

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 21:11:00 -0500

**This is a sticky post, scroll down for recent posts**

Would you like your own hardcover copy of The Sound of Sleigh Bells by Cindy Woodsmall? Then enter my contest! The contest will run until October 19th, 2009. Open to U.S. residents only.

Simply leave me a comment letting me know what your favorite Christmas tradition or favorite thing to do during Christmas is. Make sure to leave me a way to contact you, either an email or blog. I will randomly draw a winner sometime on October 19th!

Draw and Write Through History: Creation through Jonah by Carylee Gressman

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 20:17:00 -0500

Draw and Write Through History is a innovative way to teach history using Biblical history as the basis for teaching and learning history and cursive handwriting. This book is geared for ages 8 and up but can also be successfully adaptable for younger ages, which is a great way to involve all ages into the curriculum. Regardless of curriculum choice, Charlotte Mason, classical, eclectic, this book can be a wonderful supplement to your already established history curriculum. Creation Through Jonah also goes well as a supplement with Story of the World Volume I by Susan Wise Bauer and The Mystery of History Volume I by Linda Lacour Hobar.

Draw and Write Through History Creation through Jonah is available through Draw and Write and published by C.P.R. Publishing. There are 4 books available, with number four having just been released and they sell for $12.00 per book. The books in the series are Creation through Jonah, 600 B.C. to A.D. 395, Vikings to Middle Ages (with some touching on the Renaissance) and American History to the Revolution. More information about each book can be found at the Draw and Write Through History Store. Each book breaks down each drawing into steps and is in full color and following each section is copywork in cursive about that particular time period.

My oldest daughter was excited when I recieved this to review through Mama Buzz and was provided by Draw and Write Through History and began drawing from it immediately. The first drawing she did was of the Sphinx and the other was the silkworm moth. Unfortunately, she was so excited her original drawings she gave away to her friends - so I had her draw me some more. In her words "I really like!", a girl of few words. She enjoys going through the book to think of new pictures to draw. Creation Through Jonah includes plants, dinosaur, people, Noah's ark, Tower of Babel, frogs and many more historical people or items to be drawn. The illustrations are done by Peggy Dick and well done and are easy to follow in her step by step lessons. I would definitely suggest this for anyone who would like a fun way to supplement their favorite history curriculum. A sample lesson can be viewed on the Draw and Write Through History site.

The Sound of Sleigh Bells by Cindy Woodsmall

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:55:00 -0500

About the book:

Beth Hertzler works alongside her beloved Aunt Lizzy in their dry goods store, and serving as contact of sorts between Amish craftsmen and Englischers who want to sell the Plain people’s wares. But remorse and loneliness still echo in her heart everyday as she still wears the dark garb, indicating mourning of her fiancé. When she discovers a large, intricately carved scene of Amish children playing in the snow, something deep inside Beth’s soul responds and she wants to help the unknown artist find homes for his work–including Lizzy’s dry goods store. But she doesn’t know if her bishop will approve of the gorgeous carving or deem it idolatry.

Lizzy sees the changes in her niece when Beth shows her the woodworking, and after Lizzy hunts down Jonah, the artist, she is all the more determined that Beth meets this man with the hands that create healing art. But it’s not that simple–will Lizzy’s elaborate plan to reintroduce her niece to love work? Will Jonah be able to offer Beth the sleigh ride she’s always dreamed of and a second chance at real love–or just more heartbreak?

Author Bio:

Cindy Woodsmallis the author of When the Heart Cries, When the Morning Comes, and The New York Times Best-Seller When the Soul Mends. Her ability to authentically capture the heart of her characters comes from her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families. A mother of three sons and two daughters-in-law, Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband of thirty-one years.

My thoughts:

Once again, Cindy Woodsmall has done it again - a suberb story! I was drawn into Beth's and Jonah's life and could feel the excitement as their friendship grows and becomes love. Set in both Pennslyvania and Ohio Amish country - the book pulls both of the communities together in a way that feels so real. I could picture the beautiful scenery in the carvings and in the natural beauty of winter time

I enjoy reading Cindy Woodsmall's books as I feel truly transported into the lives of the characters. The characters were well developed, which is quite a feat in such a short and easy book as The Sound of Sleigh Bells is. A well done, Christian fiction book that is enjoyable to read especially as we head into the holiday season - so grab a cup of hot chocolate and a blanket and curl up with a fantastic book!

The book is available at Random House.

**I've recieved this book as part of Waterbrook's Blogging for Books program in exchange for a review.