Archive for Book Review

30 Apr 2012
Book Review 2012 • Litfuse

[Book Review] Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides

Turning Guilt Trips into Joy RidesTurning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides by Shirley Brosius
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides” by Shirley Brosius, Janine Boyer, and Kim Messinger was an encouraging, devotional that is based on 136 days of working through the things that can cause “guilt trips” and turning them into joy rides, essentially turning our perspective from looking at the worse of things and seeing things for the potential that God has to bless our lives with.

Each day is a short, 5 minute reading, that makes this a great devotional for those who are always on the go and looking for a way to seek wisdom through God’s word, while navigating through some of life’s issues that can distract us from the bigger issues in life.

From the publisher, “Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides”, is about:
Women today are busy, stressed, and guilt-ridden, yet they long to develop their spiritual sides. Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides offers inspirational thoughts based on scripture–brief enough to be read during a television commercial, yet insightful enough to open your eyes to the grace of God on days you change diapers and/or lead corporate meetings. Each reading suggests a “Guilt Trip to Avoid” and ends with a way to “Take the Joy Ride.” The book includes six months of daily readings so that you may establish a habit of connecting with God. Readings are listed under the letters G-R-A-C-E, representing God, Relationships, Acceptance, Challenges and Emotions.

The coauthors hope these meaningful readings will help you deal with guilt–both real and imagined. By applying the insights shared in Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides, you may develop a calmer, less guilt-ridden life-style and become better equipped to function as wives, mothers and friends. Younger women often develop patterns of thinking and experience feelings of guilt that carry over into their mature years, so women of all ages will find this book helpful,

and wow does this book deliver and more.

I like how the readings were listed as the author(s) promised, through the acronym, G-R-A-C-E and isn’t it true that God doesn’t expect us to be perfect, for His grace is sufficient, but He does call for us to trust Him and “….leaning not on your own understanding (ref Proverbs 3:5-6), the book, “Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides”,helps us on learning to lean on Him through the issues that we may find challenging.

As women, its easy to get caught in the, “we have to do it all” and with it…the fact we can be tied up with our emotions, be it by outside influences or internal, “Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides” helps readers to learn to live a life that isn’t burden by constant guilt, be it real, imagine or self-impose, but to learn to trust in God, and learn to be strong and confident as individuals, wives, mothers and friends.

If you, yourself, find yourself struggling with feelings of guilt, maybe you’re not good enough, just self questioning yourself or even just having a hard time saying no to others, to time, to whatever it is, that you feel weighs you down….Check out, “Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides” and learn to enjoy life just a little bit more.

[bold] Giveaway [/bold]
Guilt! She pokes you as you write about your quaint, eccentric aunt. She grabs you as you wander from e-mail to Facebook to laundry instead of focusing on your work. She kicks you as you complain about your husband to a friend.

Have you noticed? Women seem riddled with guilt. And it’s hard to know if guilt is legitimate or simply a product of our imaginations. After all, should we really feel guilty about things over which we have no control?

We are not perfect. We have no control over some things, so it’s no use feeling guilty. We can’t do it all.

To celebrate the release of Turning Guilt Trips into Joy Rides, Shirley, Janine and Kim are giving away some great prizes during the blog tour. Share your own “guilt trip” or “joy tip” and be entered to win a free life coaching consultation and a $50 Amazon.com gift certificate.

JUST CLICK THIS LINK (http://justforfun.friendsoftheheart.us) and share what trips you up, holds you back or any tips you may have for overcoming guilt and keeping your joy. Fill out the quick form at the link and you’ll be entered to win a free life coaching consultation from one of us AND a gift certificate to Amazon.com to use to purchase whatever strikes your fancy!

Contest runs 4/23 – 5/12. Winner announced here on 5/14.

Disclaimer: This post contains my personal opinions and does not reflect the opinion of any organization I am/was associated with or affiliated to.The product I have reviewed was/is based on my honest opinion and was not influenced or edited by anyone and was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest opinion.

Sunflower Faith | One comment
26 Apr 2012
Book Review • Book Review 2012 • First Wild Card

{Book Review} Changing Zip Codes: Finding Community Wherever You’re Transplanted

Changing Zip Codes: Finding Community Wherever You're TransplantedChanging Zip Codes: Finding Community Wherever You’re Transplanted by Carol G. Stratton

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Moving is considered one of life’s greatest stresses and rather you are single or a family, bring with it, a lot of unknowns and in a way, can be applied to any situation in our lives where we are face with the great unknown.

In,”Changing Zip Codes: Finding Community Wherever You’re Transplanted”, Carol Stratton,shares her experiences of twenty-two moves and counsels others, who, even with families, find themselves, seeking stability in, essentially a culture of change.

This can range from military families to families who because of un-stable economic times, may have to find themselves relocating for better jobs or even a better way of life, but in the process, find their lives and that of those around them up-rooted.

No longer do we live in a culture, where most people tend to grow up, live and die in the same communities, but more and more families being spread across the country and even the globe, to deal with both cultural and economical needs and for the follower of Christ,”Changing Zip Codes: Finding Community Wherever You’re Transplanted”, helps those who find themselves being uprooted, find that needed stable groundwork as they re-adjust to their new lives and towns.

With the proliferation of social media, its easier to stay in contact with others and even discover new contacts, but at the heart, moving is still life changing, both on a psychological and emotional level.

It makes having something like, “Changing Zip Codes: Finding Community Wherever You’re Transplanted”, very helpful as the reader is not only reassured but given practical tips on how to deal with the adjustments that need to be made.

For example, in “Day One”, Carol shares the following with the reader,
“As you and I adjust to a move, we need to remember that God wants to communicate with us. James 1:5 tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God for it and he will give it to us generously. It might take time to translate into your circumstances, but we serve a God who loves to translate his truth into our lives. Today, believe that whatever decisions you are wrestling with, He will have an answer.”

One, its not easy making the decision to move. There are many factors that have to be considered, both financial and emotional and is it really practical.

Two, no matter what…moving is not an easy over-night thing…sometimes it can be plain unpredictable, and many of us, maybe are currently living away from family or friends and don’t have that support base we need if facing, say, a second, third or tenth move for whatever the reason.

Reading,”Changing Zip Codes: Finding Community Wherever You’re Transplanted” comes in handy, because its having a best friend that will come along with you and no, its not a cure all or provide all the answers, but Carol does show you who and where to go for a foundation of answers that no matter what life throws our way, is always there.

So while the movers are packing the fine china and you’re praying that the china make it to the new place in non-jigsaw puzzle manner….Read, “Changing Zip Codes: Finding Community Wherever You’re Transplanted” and be strengthened and encouraged that no matter where you go, where you and/or your family have to move to you will get through this and in the process, have a basis not only for the community you need but great tips from someone whose been there (twenty-two times)o how to get where you need to go.

***Special thanks to Carol Stratton for sending me a review copy.***

Sunflower Faith | No comments
16 Apr 2012
Book Review 2012

{Book Review} You’re Already Amazing by Holley Gerth

You're Already Amazing: Embracing Who You Are, Becoming All God Created You to BeYou’re Already Amazing: Embracing Who You Are, Becoming All God Created You to Be by Holley Gerth

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It’s easy to get caught up in the illusion of perfection, that we try to often be more than is humanely possible.

Maybe we are people-pleasers and find ourselves, passively saying yes, when often we should say no, or don’t speak up when we should and find ourselves in situations or living in a life that we truly aren’t meant to be.

“You’re Already Amazing: Embracing Who You Are, Becoming All God Created You to Be”, is about being the woman, the wife, the daughter, the mother, God has created you to be and not based on other’s ideas, plans or thoughts.

Filled with encouraging scripture, personal ancedotes,”"You’re Already Amazing: Embracing Who You Are, Becoming All God Created You to Be” is for the moms, the working women, the mothers, the daughter, the wife, just the woman, that God has created you to be and struggling to understand how you fit in with everyone and everything else that is going on.

This is an eleven chapter book that at the end has a, “Go Deeper” study guide, that will help women work to the realization of how important they are in God’s eye and the importance they do have. Many often struggle with emotions of low self-esteem, acceptance, rejection and loneliness and,”You’re Already Amazing: Embracing Who You Are, Becoming All God Created You to Be” doesn’t deliver an instant, read this, problems be solved, but bring to women, the much needed feeling of deliverance of how important and yes, really amazing they are at the end of the day.

Holly provides a warm and very personable style to her writing and as the reader reads through this book, Holly provides sound biblical advice with a great, “pick me up” suggestions to work through the issues and feelings that many women may find themselves carrying within them and seek to find freedom from.

Reading, “You’re Already Amazing: Embracing Who You Are, Becoming All God Created You to Be”, the reader will feel as if this was written just for them and makes, “You’re Already Amazing: Embracing Who You Are, Becoming All God Created You to Be” a book that Christian women should take the time to read, either as an individual or in a group. Its about, there are storms in our lives, our lives may not be perfect and we won’t always be able to smile, but God is going to see us through and in the meantime…discover how we ARE amazing already and its not about the need for cosmetic surgery, clothes, riches, or whatever we try to fill our lives with, but by seeing, embracing and becoming all that we all in and through our Father in Heaven.

****Thank you to Donna Hausler of Baker Publishing/Revell Blog Toursfor the opportunity to read and review this book****

Sunflower Faith | No comments
04 Apr 2012
Book Review 2012 • First Wild Card

{Book Review} NIV Boys Bible

NIV Boys BibleNIV Boys Bible by Zondervan Bibles

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a “boy’s bible” and if you are looking for something that is rough and tumble for the young guy(s) in your life, this is a great bible to use.

Like the “Faithgirlz” counterpart, the “NIV Boys Bible” is geared for boys, ages 8-13(ish), and filled with devotionals, biblical facts, all in a hardcover case that can take a tumble and yet durable at the same time.

Filled with the following:

* Introductions to each book of the Bible

* Hundreds of highlighted verses worth memorizing

* What’s the Big Deal?-Need-to-know biblical stories and people

* Check It Out-Interesting and fun facts about Bible times and characters

* Grossology-Gross and gory stuff they never knew was in the Bible

* Makin’ It Real-Help for applying Bible stories to their everyday lives

This bible makes a great gift that appeals for boys who are looking for something, well, boyish to carry to church. For my son, this was “the bible”, that he is attached to; It’s colorful, eye-catching and just it appeals to the things that boys like.

To the best of my knowledge, there isn’t a different translation or cover available for this bible, but you’ll find, like I did, that it definitely holds up well and unless you want to get a cover for it, the bible holds up very well on its own.

Due to everyone being familiar with the NIV translation, there’s not really a need to go into the translation itself, since it is well known enough to speak for itself, but what makes the bible appealing is its target audience.

Boys will love this.

The “NIV Boys Bible” has enough “extras” to keep them going back and learning about God’s word at the same time.

So…really….if you are looking for a book that is going to encourage boys to check out God’s word…this bible will do just the job.

***Special thanks to Rick Roberson of The B&B Media Group for sending me a review copy.***

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 is:

 

Zonderkidz; Special edition (March 6, 2012)

***Special thanks to Rick Roberson of The B&B Media Group for sending me a review copy.***

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

 

Getting into a routine of reading the Bible can be challenging for anyone, but trying to keep the attention of pre-teen boys is especially difficult. So now there is a Bible especially developed for them. The NIV Boys Bible is designed with boys ages 9 to 12 in mind. Fun in-text features help boys dig deep into the Word and learn about amazing people, facts and stories of the Bible. The NIV Boys Bible will help boys grow into the young men God wants them to be. It will appeal to boys and cause them to desire to spend time in the Word with its unique features such as:

* Introductions to each book of the Bible

* Hundreds of highlighted verses worth memorizing

* What’s the Big Deal?-Need-to-know biblical stories and people

* Check It Out-Interesting and fun facts about Bible times and characters

* Grossology-Gross and gory stuff they never knew was in the Bible

* Makin’ It Real-Help for applying Bible stories to their everyday lives

This Bible includes the full text of the New International Version, the most popular Bible translation in the world, and 12 color tip-in pages introducing content that shows boys how they can grow to be like Jesus. Each book of the Bible has activities that make God’s Word more relevant than ever. It is jam-packed with customized content and artwork that really makes the Bible stand out.

Product Details:

List Price: $27.99

Reading level: Ages 9 and up

Hardcover: 1504 pages

Publisher: Zonderkidz; Special edition (March 6, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0310723086

ISBN-13: 978-0310723080:

AND NOW…A SAMPLE. PLEASE CLICK ON THE PICTURES TO VIEW THEM LARGER: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunflower Faith | No comments
04 Apr 2012
Book Review 2012 • First Wild Card

{Book Review} NIV Faithgirlz! Bible

NIV Faithgirlz! BibleNIV Faithgirlz! Bible by Zondervan Bibles

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I received the,”NIV Faithgirlz! Bible”, the first thing I noticed was that it was taken from my hands immediately by my “assistant” reviewer whom quickly went through the pages and begin explaining how much she loved seeing the flowers and even admire the cover.

When we finally were able to sit down and go through the bible together, I really enjoyed the layout that, the “NIV Faithgirlz! Bible” was done in; It’s extremely eye-catching, hip for the young girls to carry around, inspiring and encouraging devotionals through-out and the cover is very sturdy, although later, I ended up making a cover for the bible to protect its binding.

I, and you, would enjoy the fact that this is a very sturdy bible for even as young as seven and with care, a bible that the special girl in your life will cherish and with prayer, use as she is growing up.

The,”NIV Faithgirlz! Bible” makes a great keepsake to give as a baptism, growing up, or just because and throughout the bible, along with fact tidbits that are relevant for girls, the colorful pages, with the flowers and for those who love the color pink, is something that girls would enjoy using for their own bible.

I was impressed by the quality of the paper used and the binding is well done so there is little worry about wearing out.

Although the version I received was a hardback, it is shared, that, the “NIV Faithgirlz! Bible” will also be available as,”…two Italian Duo-Tone designs. For better portability, there is also an NIV Faithgirlz! Backpack Bible. This compact edition does not include the in-text features that the full-size edition has, but it does have twelve full-color pages of Faithgirlz! fun, the words of Christ in red and a ribbon marker. An ebook version is also planned for electronic use.”.

So if you are looking for a bible to give your daughter, niece, sister or any girl, I highly recommend the, “”NIV Faithgirlz! Bible”.

It is very hip looking, the words are easy to read, binding durable, filled with encouraging tidbits along with room for personal notes and speaking of notes, the paper is of a grainy quality that won’t bleed through, though I wouldn’t suggest liquid highlighters with any type of marking in bibles, due to the bleed through factor.

NIV, to the best of my knowledge, is the only version this comes in, though I could be wrong, and the lettering isn’t small so it won’t hurt growing eyes or require squinting to read.

This is a delightful bible to own/give and worth giving to that special someone in your life!

***Special thanks to Rick Roberson of The B&B Media Group for sending me a review copy.***

In the meantime………………….
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 contributor is:

 

 

and the book:

 

Zonderkidz; Rev Spl edition (March 6, 2012)

***Special thanks to Rick Roberson of The B&B Media Group for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR:

Nancy Rue has worked as a public school teacher, church youth director, theater workshop developer and camp director. She has written more than eighty books for young people, including the beloved Faithgirlz! Sophie series, The Skin You’re In and Everybody Tells Me to Be Myself but I Don’t Know Who I Am. Nancy lives with her husband and two dogs in Lebanon, TN.
About Faithgirlz!: Faithgirlz! is a collection of books, Bibles and resources designed to provide transformational Christian experiences for tween girls. Faithgirlz! encourages honest tween-girl empowerment by providing engaging, relevant, high-quality offerings, helping tween girls understand their world, learn biblical teachings, become closer to God and grow into godly teenagers. Faithgirlz! offers excellent content and contributions from leading Christian tween writers and spokespeople including Nancy Rue, Melody Carlson, Kristi Holl, Naomi Kinsman and more. Faithgirlz! is also supported with a website (Faithgirlz.com), Facebook page and mother and daughter live events across the country.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Every girl wants to know she’s totally unique and special, and contributor Nancy Rue helps them do just that in the revised edition of the NIV Faithgirlz! Bible. As a leading tween expert, Rue teaches girls that the Bible is real and relevant and, best of all, that the story of God and His people is also their story. Girls can now grow closer to God as they discover the journey of a lifetime, in their language, for their world.

The new Faithgirlz! Bible was developed especially for girls ages 9 to 12. Everything in it is written with a tween girl’s experience in mind, and it features the most popular Bible translation in the world, the New International Version. The features explain hard-to-understand things in the Bible and guide girls to put the Scripture to work in their own lives. The Faithgirlz! Bible focuses on sharing faith with friends and gives real ways for girls to do that.

Each book of the Bible has activities that make God’s Word more relevant than ever. And, of course, because it was developed for Faithgirlz! readers, they can expect to find it jam-packed with customized content and artwork that really makes the Bible stand out. Girls will love the cool design, the interactive features and the feeling of knowing that God’s Word is there for them whenever they need it. Some of the features included are:

·   Book Introductions—Girls will read the who, when, where and what of each book of the Bible.

·   Dream Girl—Girls will use their imaginations to put themselves in the story.

·   Is There a Little (Eve, Ruth, Isaiah) in You?—Girls will see for themselves what they have in common with women of the Bible.

·   Words to Live By—Girls will discover great Bible verses for memorizing.

·   Oh, I Get It!—Girls will find answers to Bible questions they’ve wondered about.
Nancy Rue says, “I hope the Faithgirlz! Bible will help girls grow a friendship with the Bible, their own relationship. It asks questions, asks them to think and challenges them to apply what they’re learning. That’s how they’ll find a deep, personal relationship with God, rather than just by following rules or saying what they’ve been told without really thinking about it. Rules are important, of course, but they only make sense when they really believe the message of the Scriptures. That’s what this Bible is about.” The Faithgirlz! Bible is the perfect Bible to support girls in their journey into the “beauty of believing.”

The main edition of the Faithgirlz! Bible is hardcover, but it is also available in two Italian Duo-Tone designs. For better portability, there is also an NIV Faithgirlz! Backpack Bible. This compact edition does not include the in-text features that the full-size edition has, but it does have twelve full-color pages of Faithgirlz! fun, the words of Christ in red and a ribbon marker. An ebook version is also planned for electronic use.

Product Details:

List Price: $27.99

Reading level: Ages 9 and up

Hardcover: 1504 pages

Publisher: Zonderkidz; Rev Spl edition (March 6, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0310722365

ISBN-13: 978-0310722366

AND NOW…A SAMPLE. PLEASE CLICK ON THE PICTURES TO VIEW THEM LARGER:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunflower Faith | No comments
29 Mar 2012
Bethany • Book Review 2012

{Book Review} The Maid of Fairbourne Hall

The Maid of Fairbourne HallThe Maid of Fairbourne Hall by Julie Klassen

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Margaret Elinor Macy,heiress to a fortune, a daughter, strong-willed and innovative, she has the makings of a fantastic protagonist and central to the happenings of “The Maid of Fairbourne Hall”.

This is one of those historical fiction books that is fun to read on a rainy day or on vacation, particularly if you’re not the type into overtly romance novels, but rather novels, with a little suspense, a little humor, rich historical details and strong characters and yes, have to admit, there is romance, but its not central to the book as a whole, but rather on a “growing up” story of Margaret Elinor Macy, who finds herself in the middle of a plot by a greedy step-father, battling constraints of society and learning not all is what it appears to be.

“The Maid of Fairbourne Hall” was an enjoyable read and I enjoy how each chapter not only had pertinent quotes, but “The Maid of Fairbourne Hall ” also give readers a behind the scenes look of the life of servants in that time and era and the etiquette and practices that were prevalent.

Through all this, Julie Klassen weaves a suspenseful tale as her main character finds herself trying to not only take control of her inheritance, but of her own destiny.

We get a glimpse of the different levels of society that exist in the time period that, “The Maid of Fairbourne Hall” was written and at the same time, we meet a very strong character who learns not to allow others to dictate her destiny, but learn to be strong, for herself.

In the process, she learns valuable lessons of seeing a world she took for granted, in a new way and develop valuable friendships that changes her life and mind.

“The Maid of Fairbourne Hall” is entertaining, very endearing and a book that for the casual reader, looking for a book that is both captivating and engaging, perfect for rainy days, maybe going on vacation or just something to take you away to another time and place.

This book doesn’t use a “tried and true formula”, but instead is both fresh, original and very endearing as readers find themselves escaping with Margaret Elinor Macy and laughing and finding themselves smiling with her escapades.

If you haven’t already and needing a book to read for this summer or just anytime, “The Maid of Fairbourne Hall” is well worth it; Run off with Margaret Elinor Macy as she disguises herself as a maid and in the process tries to figure out how to hold on, both to her inheritance and her heart.

Disclaimer: This post contains my personal opinions and does not reflect the opinion of any organization I am/was associated with or affiliated to.The product I have reviewed was/is based on my honest opinion and was not influenced or edited by anyone / Thank you to Bethany Publishers for the complimentary copy, in exchange for my honest opinion.

Sunflower Faith | No comments | Tags:
07 Mar 2012
Litfuse

More Beauty, Less Beast: Transforming Your Inner Ogre

About, “More Beauty, Less Beast”
With her own offbeat brand of wit and near-wisdom, inspirational humorist Debora Coty addresses heart needs of women struggling to tame that out-of-control inner beast that unexpectedly pounces, roaring and shredding, as it threatens to destroy the divinely beautiful princess hidden within. In More Beauty, Less Beast, women will find simple, practical techniques for embracing the true beauty rightfully theirs as cherished daughters of the King. Whether jaded by emotional wounds, unrealistic standards, or lack of confidence, this laugh-out-loud, girlfriend-to-girlfriend encouragement will help women transform their destructive inner beast into the exquisite beauty they were always meant to be.

More Beauty, Less Beast: Transforming Your Inner OgreMore Beauty, Less Beast: Transforming Your Inner Ogre by Debora M. Coty

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“More Beauty, Less Beast: Transforming Your Inner Ogre” is a very cute, inspiring,must read, humorous book for women who find themselves struggling with emotional wounds, not feeling great about themselves and just a general reminder, that, yes, they are very amazing people, book to read.

I found myself both laughing and just enjoying a girlfriend to girlfriend camaraderie that, “More Beauty, Less Beast” provided and who hasn’t woken up in the morning, look in the mirror and just felt like an “ogre” was looking back.

More than just a feel good book, “More Beauty, Less Beast” is a reminder, how beautiful we all are and how we can sometimes look in the mirror and be harder on ourselves than we really should.

Filled with scripture, personal ancedotes and insightful questions at the end of each chapter, to encourage:
Personal reflection, or
Maybe you want to use this as a bible study with your favorite girlfriends or a women’s bible study,

I really just like how “More Beauty, Less Beast” at 215 pages, is a book, you can just drop in your book to read while getting a pedicure, waiting at a doctor’s office, just passing time, or needing something both funny and encouraging to read.

Debora Coty writes in a way that, she helps us see the best of any situation and just a reminder that there are some days, you’ve got to be able to laugh, to get through the tears and through it all, God is going to see you through the situations in your life and give the strength that is needed.

“More Beauty, Less Beast” is about strengthening, about lifting one’s head up and going forward and having that faith and belief that things will get better and that like a diamond, we do have that potential.

This is a great book to have on those off days when you may think you’re a beast, but reality..you are a beauty.

Using Biblical advice and her trademark humor, Debora Coty urges women to conquer guilt and re-institute hope in More Beauty, Less Beast. Celebrate with Debora by entering to win a $150 Visa Cash Card!

One “beautiful” winner will receive:

  • A $150 Visa Cash Card (Treat yourself to a spa day or weekend get-away!)
  • A Debora Coty Library (More Beauty, Less Beast, Too Blessed Too Be Stressed and Everyday Hope)
  • Chocolate (Every good things begins with chocolate!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/22/12. Winner will be announced at Debora’s “Divine Beauty” Facebook Party on  3/22. Debora will be hosting an evening of chat, fun beauty trivia, laughter, and encouragement – bring your friends! She’ll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club and a live chat with Debora via Skype.)


So grab your copy of More Beauty, Less Beast and join Debora and friends on the evening of March 22nd for an evening of fun.

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

Disclaimer: This post contains my personal opinions and does not reflect the opinion of any organization I am/was associated with or affiliated to.The product I have reviewed was/is based on my honest opinion and was not influenced or edited by anyone and was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest opinion.

Sunflower Faith | No comments | Tags: , ,
27 Feb 2012
Litfuse

“The Beautiful Wife” Book Review

The Beautiful Wife: Focused on Christ, Fulfilled in MarriageThe Beautiful Wife: Focused on Christ, Fulfilled in Marriage by Sandy Ralya

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“The Beautiful Wife: Focused on Christ, Fulfilled in Marriage” by Sandy Ralya is a 222 page book written in an eloquent, simple yet honest, heart filled way to encourage wives seeking to grow and be strengthen in and through Christ.

Each chapter starts with a scripture and topic related quote and ends with a set of reflection questions that encourages the reader both for discussion and personal enrichment along with a set of first step questions that seem designed to help the reader get direction in working through the chapter.

With a companion Prayer Journal and Mentor Guide,”The Beautiful Wife” makes a wonderful book for either personal reading, discussion with your closest friends or topic of a bible study.

On page 29, Sandy Rayla seems to sum up what a marriage is about,”You are an equal partner with your husband in marriage, and your role holds great influence.”

This speaks of the saying that is sometimes used, “Behind every great man, there’s a great woman” and how as wives, we are basically one of the many roles that Sandy broke down as:

Equal Partner.

Friend.

Helper.

Prayer Warrior.

There is a great quote in the book by Ruth Bell Graham that goes, “If two people agree on everything, one of them is unnecessary.” To which it is said her husband, Billy goes, “The sooner we accept that as a fact of life, the better we will be able to adjust to each other and enjoy togetherness”.

Marriage is definitely a lot of give and take and with, “The Beautiful Wife” , Sandy addresses topics from cultivating beauty to professionalizing the role of wife and mother to even managing money, going along the lines of Proverbs 31.

Sandy writes about topics that are both common sense but yet at the same time, seem lost in complicated times and shares knowledge that once were passed down from older generations to the younger generations….Along with short, inspiring chapters, there are additional resources that Sandy shares, via authors that are both familiar and maybe somewhat unfamiliar as well as important understanding that abuse is not acceptable in a marriage and for those who may find themselves in an abusive relationship, numbers and information of where to go for help.

Through it all…readers will find that “The Beautiful Wife” is a great book for wives to read, girlfriends to discuss and for fellow Sisters in Christ to study.

Celebrate with Sandy by entering her Kindle Touch Giveaway and coming to her “Beautiful Womanhood” Facebook Party {3/8}!

 

One beautiful winner will receive:

  • A Brand new Kindle Touch with Wi-Fi
  • The Beautiful Wife By Sandy Ralya
  • The Beautiful Wife Prayer Journal and Mentor’s Guide

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 3/7/12. Winner will be announced at Sandy’s “Beautiful Womanhood” Facebook Party on 3/8. Sandy will be hosting an evening of chat, laughter and encouragement – bring your friends! She’ll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, prayer journals and a live chat with Sandy for your Bible study or small group!

So grab your copy of The Beautiful Wife and join Sandy and friends on the evening of March 8th for an evening of fun.

Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter

Don’t miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on March 8th!

Disclaimer: This post contains my personal opinions and does not reflect the opinion of any organization I am/was associated with or affiliated to.The product I have reviewed was/is based on my honest opinion and was not influenced or edited by anyone and was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest opinion.

Sunflower Faith | No comments | Tags: ,
26 Jan 2012
Book Review 2012 • Litfuse

“Mornings with Jesus 2012″ Book Review and Giveaway-Giveaway Closed

Mornings with Jesus 2012: Daily Encouragement for Your Soul 366 DevotionsMornings with Jesus 2012: Daily Encouragement for Your Soul 366 Devotions by Judy Baer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Mornings with Jesus 2012: Daily Encouragement for Your Soul 366 Devotions” is a series of selected devotionals by Judy Baer, Gwen Ford Faulkenberry, Tricia Goyer, Sharon Hinck, Keri Wyatt Kent, Erin Keeley Marshall and Camy Tang that will help you start each morning with a selected passage from the bible,personal devotional to inspire and encourage and followed at the end of each day with a,”Faith Step” to contemplate on, throughout the day.

I really enjoy using these devotionals and thought this would be perfect for busy moms who are struggling to balance being a Christian, a mom, a wife and in some cases, if they work in or outside the home, an employee, while maintaining a contemplative and growing relationship with our Father in Heaven.

Everything is a quick five minute read and for the busy mom (and women, not just moms) who are on the go, and with this being available on Kindle and Nook, talk about a great, while on the way to work, dropping or picking up the kids at school, waiting at the doctor, quick, morning/afternoon/or evening boost.

Although,”Mornings with Jesus 2012: Daily Encouragement for Your Soul 366 Devotions” is a light read for many who may prefer something “heavier” and more in depth, I found,”Mornings with Jesus 2012: Daily Encouragement for Your Soul 366 Devotions” to be really good for the busy moms (and women) that are out there and just don’t have time for that sit down, thirty minute to hour devotional, or maybe you are struggling to start a quiet time/devotional period to just dwell in God’s word, this captures the best of both worlds, since sometimes what we need, is a quick faith boost and the faith lifts that are included at the end of each devotional is just right for all of us who need that motivation to move through the day or if we find ourselves struggling through a difficult time or just plain bad day.

As I read, “Mornings with Jesus 2012: Daily Encouragement for Your Soul 366 Devotions”, I couldn’t help but think…this would make a fantastic app if you have a smartphone or iphone.

The devotionals are relevant to today’s busy world and many women find themselves balancing many roles in today’s modern and complicated world will find this as a way to set down the needed roots to keep them grounded.

These are a great group of inspiring women who, in and through Christ, will help lift up your day (or if you read it at night, end the night with inspiring encouragement for the next day), and so well worth to check out, “”Mornings with Jesus 2012: Daily Encouragement for Your Soul”.

For a little encouragement of what this book is about, here’s what the publisher has to say about the book:

“Be still and know that I am God.” is one of the most beautiful verses from the Bible, but it’s not easy to practice in this busy world. Mornings with Jesus will help you do just that—“be still” in Jesus’ beautiful and powerful presence. For those who are seeking a deeper experience in their relationship with Christ, Mornings with Jesus offers a fresh perspective of who Jesus is (the Healer, the Son of God, the Comforter, the Good Shepherd) and what that means for day-to-day life. With a warm and friendly voice, 365 short devotional writings on the character and teachings of Jesus encourage readers to greet each day by drawing near to Him and inviting His presence into their day. Spend time with Jesus at the beginning of each day and experience His nearness and peace in a new way throughout the year. Each day’s selection includes:

  • a Bible verse
  • an entry based on Jesus: His words, miracles, and parables; His wisdom, compassion, and comfort; His mystery, power, divinity, and humanity
  • a “faith step” that will inspire and challenge readers to apply the day’s message to their lives”

 

Using this devotional, day 1, January 1, the first devotional was over, Mark 1:35

“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. (NIV)

WOW..what a reminder about starting off the New Year and just each day, praying and spending time, FIRST, with our Father in Heaven; Though we may not always feel like we have time, this is an inspiring devotional to encourage you that we are all busy women, with many different seasons going on in our life, and we can be encouraged and inspired to find time with our Father in Heaven!

To make this a little fun, I am hosting a giveaway for your own copy of, ”
Mornings with Jesus 2012: Daily Encouragement for Your Soul 366 Devotions” and one lucky winner will be picked on January 31, 2012.

Basic rules for entry:
1. Make sure to log your entries into rafflecopter, where the winner will be picked from, so your entries can be counted.

2. The winner will be notified first by email on January 31, 2012 and after being contacted, posted on the Sunflower Faith, FB fan page and here.

It’s not too late to start the New Year, being strengthened and inspired!

 

Disclaimer: This post contains my personal opinions and does not reflect the opinion of any organization I am/was associated with or affiliated to.The product I have reviewed was/is based on my honest opinion and was not influenced or edited by anyone and was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest opinion.

Sunflower Faith | 8 comments | Tags: , , , , , , ,
21 Jan 2012
Book Review 2012 • Litfuse

“The Shadow of Your Smile” Book Review

The Shadow of Your SmileThe Shadow of Your Smile by Susan May Warren

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Life can happen in a matter of seconds.

“The Shadow of Your Smile” is the story of a couple, whose known each other for twenty-five years and find themselves drifting apart to the point of divorce and in a matter of seconds, through a tragic accident, become strangers rediscovering who they are and who each other are, all over again.

Second chances?

Hope?

“The Shadow of Your Smile” is a touching, love story that readers, like myself, will find themselves, having a hard time putting down as the main characters, Noelle and Eli Hueston, struggle with the implications of Noelle’s amnesia, and Noelle struggling to not only remember her life, but struggling with the question if this is an opportunity to rediscover a love for a man that, an accident has taken away memories of.

Sometimes hilarious, sometimes deeply heart warming, I enjoy reading, “The Shadow of a Smile” and its one of those books, that you will find yourself, not only just taken away, but wondering….in the midst of tragedy, can love re-grow?

Come participate in Litfuse and Susan May Warren’s giveaway to celebrate the release of, “The Shadow of Your Smile”!

Sometimes love requires a little forgetting … Come back to Deep Haven and find out what’s been happening in your favorite quaint hamlet. If you’re new to the Deep Haven series – this is the perfect book to start with – each book in the series is a stand alone story.

Susan is celebrating the release of The Shadow of Your Smile by giving away a prize pack worth over $200 from 1/9-1/28.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

  • A $200 Visa Gift Card (Use that to rekindle a little romance, treat yourself to a spa day, snap up those shoes you’ve been eyeing, or purchase a few great books!)
  • The entire set of Deep Haven Books 

The winner will be announced on 1/30/12 on Susan’s blog, Scribbles! Just click one of the icons below to enter and tell your friends about Susan’s giveaway on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter

Disclaimer: This post contains my personal opinions and does not reflect the opinion of any organization I am/was associated with or affiliated to.The product I have reviewed was/is based on my honest opinion and was not influenced or edited by anyone and was provided by Litfuse Publicity Group for my honest opinion.

Sunflower Faith | 2 comments | Tags: , ,
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