You Are Already Amazing: A Review

I lied to you.  The title of this book is really You’re Already Amazing.  But the font embedded in my blog doesn’t allow for apostrophes in the title. 

Let me just start by saying that I felt valuable before I even broke the binding of this book open.  My review copy came with a card . . . one from Holley  (or someone posing as Holley – thanks Revell). 

Of all of the reviews I have done from big publishers, I have NEVER had a personal touch such as this. 

And the card has remained in my book serving as a bookmark. 

You’re Already Amazing is a book written to be engaged with.  You will need a pen because I anticipate that you will be underlining poignant thoughts and answering some soul searching questions provided by Holley. 

I don’t really know where to begin.  I am going to have to reread You’re Already Amazing to do the real work to begin to process and accept the title, you’re already amazing.

Really?

Perhaps God knew I was going to have a serious time accepting His quality work when He crafted me.  And so, thanks to Holley, a simple Bible verse has become a powerful companion to my self-esteem,

I have filled him {her} with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts.  Exodus 31:3

Though the verse was intended to describe God’s provision for the construction of the Temple, Holley remarks, “This verse reveals that God’s hand is in our skills, in the ordinary things we do.  And they matter.  A lot.” 

Really?

I often feel a little unusual about being a blogger writer.  The common response I get is, “How do you have time for that?” or “I don’t have time to read those blogs.”  Thanks. 

Imagine people’s reactions when I pull out my bag of essential oils . . . you would think I was pulling out the Ouija board or anointing people with dog poop. Hello!  Essential oils are the first line of response God left on earth after prayer!  I’m not practicing voodoo but instead using what God has shown me to bring health to others.

And that whole home birth thing . . .

So when I go to do somewhat normal things . . . like quilting . . . making  yogurt . . . or sprouting grain . . . I think . . . why can’t I just be normal?  Even the simple things I engage in seem different than the average mom.

But I can’t be normal.  I have to be God’s normal.  I am already amazing.  Man, that feels kooky to write. 

Do you know that you are amazing?  It is so much easier for me to tell you that than for me to believe it myself.  Do you believe it?  Do you see that  your unique strengths and skills are a valuable part of God’s creation?

Here is what I would recommend for you. 

• Read through Holley’s book by yourself first. 
• Then, go and form a small group (Sarah has some great ideas on how to do this) and read through it again . . . but truly process it.  Discuss.  Be vulnerable with this small selection of ladies.
• Or participate in the (In) Courage book club.  Click here to view the reading schedule.

You can find Holley Gerth over on her blog, Heart to Heart with Holley, on Twitter, and Pinterest.

You’re Already Amazing can be purchased in paperback on Amazon for $11.19 or for your Kindle  at a low low price at the time of this writing -- $3.99.  (Remember Kindle books can be read on most any device these days . . . including your computer.)

Thanks Revell for sending me this book to read and review.  I have been blessed by Holley’s words.  I was not paid for this post and gave my honest opinion . . . it is a good book. 

Seeds of Turmoil: A Review

Unfortunately, Seeds of Turmoil by Bryant Wright, has sat in my Bible basket for months.  Several times I have opened it up, but failed to become engaged in the historical data that is compiled in this biography of the “Biblical roots of the inevitable crisis in the Middle East.”

I am really kind of surprised that I didn’t just dive into this well-documented book . . . due to the fact that I am fascinated and drawn to any information and knowledge that I can gain regarding the Middle East and its history. 

Give me anything Joel Rosenberg and I gobble it right up . . . even when he is writing a non-fiction book (I do read more than just vacation reading, I’ll have you know.)

Nevertheless, this book serves as a primer and even tutorial to the “average joe” who has not researched the cultural and geographical reasons for the tension in the Middle East. 

For a well-versed Bible scholar, this would NOT be the book for you.  BUT for the individual who doesn’t have a good handle on Scripture and desires to know the REAL reason for all of the fighting over such a tiny amount of land, then this book would be a good purchase.

Overcoming the Negative Nevers

It is pretty fun when someone from the blogging world becomes more than just a face on the computer screen.  Or someone moves from a video to a real hug.

I shared a taxi cab with Terri. 

And her is her story.

She is tackling a big issue.  The Nevers. Do you have some?

 

We are challenged  to move past the Negative Nevers in our lives. These are the things we never thought we’d experience. You know. . .

• “I never thought I’d need to lose 100 pounds”
• “I never imagined I’d have to file bankruptcy.”

What types of Negative Nevers are you facing? Are you ready to overcome them?

Keep up with some other blogs who are considering some of the truths Teri shares in her book.

• Mom-e-centric
• Jenn's RAQ
• Crum's This N That
• Chaos Appreciation
• Traci's Fishbowl
• Fruit in Season (I know her in real life!  She supplied chocolate for my coffee at Relevant!)
• Simply Things Family

In Overcoming the Nevers by Gardening Your Life and Nurturing Seeds of Truth, Teri uses her life experiences as a springboard to help readers move on from the crippling, joy-stealing “Negative Nevers.” The book shares the tools that Teri has learned as well as practical tips and applications for using them in your life to overcome your worst nevers.

Are you willing to discover the truth about who you were created to be?

Overcoming the Nevers inspires and equips you with the opportunities to become your best YOU.

Teri is the President and Founder of Keeping it Personal. She is also a writer, speaker, and sought-after personal growth expert who enjoys great conversations while sipping coffee, photography, and soaking up as many sunsets as she can. Teri is passionate about helping others as an encourager and a cheerleader to many. The author lives a joy-filled life, deeply devoted to her husband, her two boys, and her relationship with God. Connect with Teri at TeriJohnson.com.

Lion of Babylon: A Review

Lion of Babylon is a great novel. reminiscent of a Joel Rosenberg book.  Davis Bunn’s book mainly takes place in Baghdad.  Spurred on by a close tie to missing intelligence agent (Alex Baird), main character Marc Royce is asked to return to the State Department to find Baird and three others. 

Who is behind the disappearances and why?  Marc Royce seeks to find this out while building friendships and trust between himself and the people of Baghdad, essentially bringing forth a large scale reconciliation between America and the Middle East. 

Discover how Marc Royce makes a difference.  It is something that we all could stand to do!

Thank you Bethany House for providing me a copy of the Lion of Babylon.  I was not paid for this review nor do I have to return the book. 

The Harvest of Grace: A Review

My friend, Emily, hearts Cindy Woodsmall.  I’m a fan of her books too (and Emily).  I read the The Bridge of Peace earlier this year.  I have yet to read the book that launched the Ada’s House series.  I think it will be sitting on my nightstand in the near future, though.

The Harvest of Grace, by Woodsmall, is quite different than most of the Amish fiction books that I have read, in that the main character, Sylvia Fisher, is doing what was/is traditionally considered a man’s job!  In an effort to resist temptation (good for her), she leaves her family to help a dairy farmer revive his farm.  As the farm began to turn around, the owner’s prodigal son returns . . . and slightly interferes with Sylvia’s plans. 

Find out how the situation is resolved.  This would be a great book to check out at the library, ask for your birthday, find on , or place on your Christmas wish list!

Thank you Waterbrook Press.  This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.  I was not paid for this post.  I sincerely hope that Cindy Woodsmall writes more books for the Ada House series. 

Max on Life: A Review

I read Max when I first came to know Jesus.  For a while I felt like I “knew” Max. 

Up until about 10 years ago, I read every single book he had written . . . in fact, I read them before he wrote them.

Just kidding. 

But something changed.  I changed.  My walk with the Lord changed.  Instead of powerful stories or topical sermons . . . I really wanted to understand the words in the Bible for myself.  I wanted to know what Jesus really meant . . . the full context of a powerful statement.

Or . . . the culture behind Paul’s message.

I really wanted to pedal my own bike, I suppose.  And the more grounded I became, taking the spiritual training wheels off of my Bible, the less I read of Max Lucado’s work.

Max was/is an excellent teacher – the “Strider” in my life. . . someone that I grew under as I drafted off of him. 

Don’t get me wrong.  Max Lucado is an excellent writer.  He paints a picture with words – a true talent and gift of the Lord.  But I wanted the inspired Words of God to paint my spiritual backdrop. 

I like a good book . . . this you well know if you read my blog regularly. 

However, when it comes to pumping air into the tires of my spiritual 29’er . . . give me Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith… of my faith.  Give me my Bible.

That said . . . Max on Life is a book filled with questions from Max fans . . . someone like the Jodi of 10 years ago.  And those questions are answered by Max, the author.  Kind of like a call-in radio show… only in a book.

Most likely, I would not have bought the book.  But I would go to a bookstore on a date night and flip through the book looking for a soul stirring question to discuss with the Engineer. 

If you’re a Max fanatic . . . sprint . . . don’t roll to the store for this book.  But if you are a nominal fan and aren’t into books that are set up as a call-in radio show . . . don’t purchase the book.

Thank you Thomas Nelson for allowing me to read and review Max on Life.  I was not paid for this post and was encouraged to freely give my opinion.

Spring Into Reading

I’m finally getting around to some of the blog posts that I have been yearning to gather enough  time to post . . .

And though late, here is my Spring Into Reading list.  These are the books that I “hope” to read and finish by June 20!

• Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
• Gut and Psychology Syndrome by Dr. Natasha Campbell
• Dark Day in the Deep Sea (Magic Tree House) by Mary Pope Osborne
• Max on Life* by Max Lucado
• The Whole Bible Story* by Dr. William H. Marty
• Another Dawn* by Kathryn Cushman
• The Girl in the Gatehouse* by Julie Klassen
• I’d Be Your Hero:  A Royal Tale of Godly Character by Kathryn O’Brien
• Eve of the Emperor Penguin (Magic Tree House) by Mary Pope Osborne
• Amon’s Adventure by Arnold Ytreeide (great book to read prior to Resurrection Day)

• Spiritual Growth of Children by Dr. John Trent (Focus on the Family)
• The Traveler’s Gift* by Andy Andrews
• 1000 Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp
• Seeds of Turmoil* by Bryan Wright

* denotes upcoming book reviews

Phew . . . I think that is it . . . actually, I know a few others are sitting on my nightstand.  But I’ve overwhelmed myself.  Not really.  But kind of. 

Beyond Opinion: A Review

I am a big fan of Ravi Zacharias.  Many moons ago the Hottie and I read a book by Zacharias called I, Isaac, take Thee, Rebecca.  To this day it remains one of our favorite books that we have used as a marriage devotional. 

Before I go further, you might ask the question (in a few moments), “What is an apologist?”  According to Miriam Webster’s Dictionary it is “one who speaks in defense of someone or something.”  So in the case of Ravi Zacharias, he is writing in defense of Christ.  Except, Zacharias is anything but defensive. 

Beyond Opinion is not light reading material.  It really is a book that I would have rather read in a group than alone, in order to discuss.  And I would have benefited from reading it during a less stressful season in my live to significantly process the content.  However, it does contain a refreshing look into apologetics that seeks to equip a lover of Jesus to share their faith and answer tough questions in a relational manner rather than with persuasive arguments. 

Ravi, along with several other  learned apologists, seek to equip the believer so that they are “prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect“(1 Peter 3:15).

Thank you to Thomas Nelson for sending me this book to read and review.  I was not paid for this post nor do I have to return the book.  I am sure that the Hottie will want to read it one of these days . . .

Virginia Soaps and Scents -- A Review

Well, I ummm . . . should have written this review a wee bit ago. Yikes. But it doesn’t reflect a negative opinion of Virginia Soaps and Scents, quite the opposite.

In fact, I am very sad because the soaps are on their last suds.

Sadness.

I’ve been contemplating making a little purchase from Virginia Soaps to put in my own Christmas stocking. Does that reflect how much I like these soaps?

Because I am part of the Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Review Crew, we received these handcrafted soaps in the mail (a few months back).

The Granola boys were so excited to have something delivered to our house that didn’t require Mommy reading the instructions. They were allowed to have instant gratification.

Literally, they were given a hands-on experience that immediately produced glorious results through the medium of suds, delicious aromas, and personally choosing what soap went in what bathroom.

This was a very unique product review because normally through the Crew we look at curriculum to be used in the “classroom.” However, Virginia Hand Soaps is an example of the “classroom” being applied in real life.

The story behind Virginia Soaps is quite unique and inspiring. The Spargurs are:

a homeschooling family with nine children living in rural Virginia. Our interest in soap making began with a history lesson and developed into an artistic passion. Our soaps are made with all natural oils – no added chemicals. Each bar is hand cut, so no two are exactly the same.

In the sample pack we received there were mini bars of Oatmeal & Milk & Honey Soap, Fresh Orange Soap, Coconut Lemongrass Soap, a Ginger Lime Shampoo Bar, and a Laundry Soap Kit.

We typically have foamy soap in our bathrooms, so it was novel for the boys to actually use a bar to wash their hands. I will admit that it has been difficult to keep the sink “deck” free of soap scum. However, after perusing the Virginia Soap website, I noticed that they sell a “handmade white poplar tray that will keep your soap high and dry for only $2.50!”

I have been impressed with how long our hand soap has lasted in the bathroom—at least double the length of time that our soap pump produces suds. So, if I purchased a Christmas scented hand soap from Virginia Soap, I could be reminded of Jesus well into March for $4.50 (a dollar less than the soap pump we go through each month)! That is a savings indeed!

I would strongly encourage you to visit the Virginia Soaps and Scents website to learn about the history of soap, the production process behind Virginia Soap, and learn about their VERY UNIQUE shampoo bar!

I loved this review and the products we received from Virginia Soaps and Scents. You better believe that I am going to try and find any excuse to purchase from this neat homeschooling family!

Click on the Homeschool Crew banner to read other reviews on this product

As a member of the Homeschool Crew, I was given this product to review, and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post. All opinions expressed in this post are delightfully mine.

Technorati Tags: The Old Schoolhouse,Virginia Soaps and Scents,Granola Mom 4 God

The Good News Express -- Passkey Foundation --A Reflective Review

I heard the story 8 times . . . consecutively and loudly.

I heard it 8 times in a confined space--the Loser Cruiser, on a very rainy day. I don't like driving in the rain. It makes me tense.

They really liked the story. They being Mr. Smackdown and Mr. Me-Too.

What story, you ask?

The Birthday Gift by Tony Salerno, published by Passkey Publications.

This is the tale of a little bear, Bramwell, who is about to attend his eagerly anticipated birthday party. He is greedily dwelling upon the presents he will receive as he takes a short cut through Fiddle Field due to The Good News Express arriving late. In the field he meets Brengle. (What is up with these names?) Brengle is new to town and appears to live in squalor. Brengle becomes embarrassed at being invited to Bramwell's birthday party, and lacking the shoes to attend he runs away on presumably callused paws. Bramwell arrives fashionably late to his own party and is obviously bothered by his encounter with the stark realities of life, much like I was bothered at the poverty I viewed when living in India. Troubled, he sulks throughout his party, even acting ungrateful at the wonderful gifts he receives until he opens the pair of coveted shoes. In an incredibly generous gesture, Bramwell seeks permission from his parents to give his shoes to Brengle. The entire birthday party hunts Brengle down and he is invited into the fold, overwhelmed at this goodwill offering of love. Both Bramwell and Brengle learn monumental life lessons that can easily be translated into an applicable Bible story.

The short of it is . . . though the dialogue of the book appears forced to me at times, it is delightful to children, especially my children. My husband and I became thoroughly annoyed with the CD, but then again, we listed to it to the point of insanity.

And the long of it is . . . admittedly, I tend to gravitate towards simplistic and classic stories that have been time tested. I was annoyed by the bears' names. I didn't understand why Bramwell wasn't at home and wondered what exactly the Good News Express was (I can surmise, though.) I was irritated at his impolite attitude towards his party guests and his insolent behavior towards his parents. He should have been somewhat grateful. As a result, I wanted to dismiss this book as a weak, feel good book that teaches my children annoying songs.

However, upon further reflection . . . I think that this book certainly explores the area of character. A person, or bear, of good character does what is right even when no one is looking. The way I see it is that Bramwell had an inciting event that caused him to do something meaningful and important with his life. Recognizing his good fortune, he chooses to bless another in a needier state, sacrificing his own desires. As a result he discovers that it is better to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).

This book inspired conversation. Characters don't have to be perfect. We aren't perfect. Not everyone can be Jesus. I don't think that Bramwell appeared very grateful at his birthday party with his lukewarm statements of thanks, but I understand his disillusionment. In the end, Bramwell showed good character. He was kind to Brengle when no one was looking and he extended goodwill towards Brengle.

This book provides an excellent opportunity to discuss with your children an opportunity where you can give away a toy, or provide a gift to a friend in need. Perhaps it is time to sponsor that Compassion child?

If you have a headache don't listen to the included CD in the car. However, if you seek to entertain your children for an hour or so, put the CD on repeat and they will be happy as clams.

There are several other books in the Good News Express series featuring topics such as cheerfulness, friendship, and thankfulness in addition to sharing. The four books can be purchased as a bundle for $20 or individually for $7.50 at The Passkeys Foundation website.

Click on the Homeschool Crew banner to read other reviews on these products.

As a member of the Homeschool Crew, I was given this product to review,
and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post.
All opinions expressed in this post are mine with the help of my children.

Little Book Day with Guardian Angel Publishing

Today was Little Book Day. It wasn't planned like nap times are planned. It just became a good idea all of the sudden.


Really, a trip to the library was necessary.


The effort to pile into the car and corral the herd at the library just wasn't worth the energy. I opted to print the free ebooks I received from Guardian Angel Publishing.

Due to the fact that I hug a tree every now and then, I opted to print multiple pages on one sheet of paper. The color printer was set on economy, and with scissors in hand I created an air of anticipation and excitement within the Granola boys. (Here is an interesting fact for you: Guardian Angel Publishing prints books only after they are ordered from a customer--if you bought a hard copy, that is.)

Additionally, I was slightly excited because I love small things. You know small Tupperware containers. Small boxes. Small books. They are just so . . . small. Cute. Fun. I have passed this small fetish on to my kiddos. They love small books.

I think that Little Book Day would have been enjoyable no matter what book we were reading, because the important activity that we were doing was being together, snuggling, discussing pictures before the content was read, and making assumptions based on previously acquired knowledge.

Umm . . . so like I said our reading time would have been special no matter what. You are probably wondering why I am typing like I have memory loss. I'll explain, but let me first share with you a little bit of the heart of Guardian Angel Publishing.

Guardian Angel Publishing (GAP) aims

to lovingly create fun, affordable and educational eBook computer & print book experiences for preschoolers and primary age children. And to embed positive, loving and worthwhile meaning into these books.

They publish

both free and reasonably priced books for kids, schools and families. Our e-picture books, e-storybooks and e-chapter books are virtual electronic books to be displayed on a computer device. Our books are available as downloads (available for you to DOWNLOAD directly to your hard drive), CDs and print paperback. GAP eBooks for kids can be read on many hand-held devices too, such as PDA's, BLACKBERRIES, iPHONES, iPods (FYI- Kindles are not in color yet. Our books are full color.)

GAP's goal is to help foster a delightful time of reading between you and your youngster. And that we had. I'm just slightly glad that I didn't pay money for this time together with my saplings.

As many of you know, I am a little bit of a book snob. After all, literature is my major. I think that I have a tendency to be more critical and analytical of chidren's books than adult reading material. My paradigm might shift as my children mature, but I struggle to share literature with my children where a character's questionable behavior is left unchanged . . . untouched, such as Sly in Stubby's Destiny. I struggle to read dialogue to my children that I would loath to hear from my offspring such as, "I was born at the wrong time," from a frustrated little colt named Stubby.

I fully recognize that it is through literature that I can teach, train, and educate my children. I can take a flawed make-believe character and essentially rip him to shreds if I so choose and yet use that discussion to illuminate a behavior in my child that needs to be changed without unnecessarily wounding their soul. (That was a long sentence.)

That said, we enjoyed the far fetched Rainbow Sheep and it was hinted at by a certain Mr. Smackdown that he would like to make some felted sheep (which will be possible since directions exist in the back of this colorful book).

Science was accomplished through the lack of pink book, Maybe We are Flamingos. Did you know that flamingos don't turn pink until they are a year old? And do you know why they are pink? I'm going to be mean and I'm not going to tell you.

Gifts from God offers beautiful photography. However, I could have done without the baby drinking a bottle. The Bible verse used on this page was, "You are the temple of the living God," from 2 Corinthians 6:16. I think it would have been more fitting to see a baby nursing. Yet, the book contained many encouraging promises from God.

If you are traveling and want to lighten your load, I think Guardian Angel Publishing offers an excellent resource to help you vacation with your child, if you own an electronic devise in which to view their resources. It is for this reason, alone, I would recommend a purchase from Guardian Angel Publishing: cheap reading material that fits on your phone for approximately $5.00 a book.

Click on the Homeschool Crew banner to read other reviews on these products.
As a member of the Homeschool Crew, I was given this product to review,
and I do not have to return the product to the vendor. I was not paid for this post.
All opinions expressed in this post are mine with the help of my children.

Giveaway #6: Donald Miller's new book, A Million Miles in a Thousand Years

Note: I am veering away from the traditional format of how I write my book reviews, because this book, A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller struck a rather personal chord within me.

I often remember scenes in my life by what music was playing or popular at the time. For example, remember the song Sunglasses at Night by Corey Hart? I was playing in my neighbor's front yard and we had to sing that song to enter the forest hideaway on the side of their house. What about the hip hop She Drives Me Crazy by the Fine Young Cannibals? Envision my sister and I riding in her Chevy Blazer as we act like idiots opening and closing our mouth like a large Bass. Or each time the Hottie Hubby and I went mountain biking in college we blared Too Much to Say by The Dave Matthews Band. India is fondly remembered by Sting's song Fields of Gold. Skiing with the Hottie Hubby was always preceded by Love, Liberty, Disco by the Newsboys when we lived in Colorado.

No music was playing when I read Miller's new book, but if there had been, U2's album No Line On the Horizon would be the elevator music in the background. This work (U2's) as a whole, sounds like the theme track of a life, my life (right now). It isn't that the words necessarily resemble my life . . . though some do . . . but the way the music moves from its highs to its lows. I can't explain it any more than that because I am clueless regarding musical terms.

Donald Miller's latest book is filled with random stories and events, much like my comments above. Upon closing the book at 10:58 PM last night, after reading to the Hottie Husband over the phone for an hour, I was left with two thoughts to ponder:

1. The book is so random that I am not sure what I just read.
2. The book is a lineup of seemingly random events that make up 250 pages of Donald Miller's life. Isn't that like my life? Random events that together create my life . . . my story. And it is a beautiful thing.

But random events, random scenes create defining moments. Thus, this book has me pondering my life . . . the story God has me living out.

Miller's book helped me realize and accept the fact that I am a dreamer and it's OK for me to be such. God created many types of people. We need them all. The world does need me in a small way. But at times, I am wracked with guilt because I so desperately want to act upon my dreams, but don't feel it would be logical or important. I want to create an insinuating event that spawns action in my life, in my family, and even in the world. I don't want to do this alone. I want a shared event, connecting my random existence (I know that God didn't create me randomly, don't worry--I'm not questioning my existence within God's plan) with another to make the experience, the new memory concrete and impactful.

I've come to realize that I have been created with a longing for action intentionally. It allows me to be a part of God's work. And truthfully, I wish to employ a lot more action in my life, alongside my family.

So world, watch out. I am looking, watching, and praying. I am preparing to create an impact, fuel a mission, and touch something larger than me.

And while I do that, I will begin with being fully present in the now. Enjoying the temporary events, the seemingly random events that really aren't random.

So was this a good book?

Yes.

Did I agree with everything?

No.

Did Donald Miller make me think?

Probably too much!

Was it worth the read?

Definitely. It was a great shared experience with the Hottie Hubby.

Want to win it? Thomas Nelson Publishers sent me two copies . . . one for me and one to give away!

Giveaway #6
Donald Miller's new book: A Million Miles in a Thousand Years

RULES

Please, please, please . . .do not put more than one entry per comment. I will be using www.random.org to pick the winners. So if you would like for your comments to count, leave individual comments.

All options are worth 1 entry, unless otherwise stated.

1. (Mandatory) Tell me something that you need to do to live more "presently" and "fully" in your world. Or tell me about a dream you have and desire to turn it into reality.
   
2. Tweet about this giveaway, making sure to include @GranolaMom4God and leave a comment back at the blog.
   
3. Become one of my fans if you aren't already!
   
4. Become a follower of me on Twitter or Facebook . . . leave separate comments for this. And if you want another entry, become a follower of Donald Miller . . .@donmilleris.
   
5. Write a blog post about an event that changed your life and leave a link back to your post.
   
6. Put my blog, http://www.granolamom4god.com, on your blog roll in a continuously visible location, not just a blog post.
   
7. Grab my button and place it on your blog for all to see!
8. Check out Donald Miller's blog (www.donmilleris.com or website www.donaldmillerwords.com) and tell me something you learned.
   

Remember, only #1 is mandatory. The rest of the entries are optional, but you MUST comment separately for each one.

The Fine Print: I will email you when you have won. You cannot win more than one giveaway. I must have your email address to alert you to your prize. You can include that in your comment or email me separately at thegranolamom4god@gmail.com. You must respond within 24 hours.

Contest ends 10/6/09

The Jesus Book by Stephen Elkins

You know that you are a blogger when your children participate and offer suggestions to help your blog out.

I happened to be sitting by Mr. Smackdown one morning, prayerfully attempting to decide what book to review for Thomas Nelson.  I had my heart set on a particular book which shall remain nameless, mostly because I forget what it was named.

Anyway, Mr. Smackdown tore his eyes away from Curious George, which is when I take time to blog, and said,

"Mommy, can you have the mailman bring us that book?"  

OK.  Prayer answered.

So is the book kid friendly?  You bet!  My son wanted it on the computer screen.  And once it became a physical book in our hands, it has yet to disappoint us.

I love this book because you can use it on a variety of levels.  For example, you could . . .

1. Only read the title of the page, (i.e.) "The angel said Jesus was the son of God." Then look and talk about the picture featured on that page.
2. Read the title of the page and read the small devotional about the title, in addition to discussing the picture.
3. Grab your Bible, read the suggested passage, and discuss the above two ideas.

No matter how you use this book, Stephen Elkins takes huge adult concepts and breaks them down to bite sized pieces. 

But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”  (Matthew 19: 14)

Rather than read this book in one setting, Hottie Hubby has been reading 1-3 stories each night before bedtime.  Each night they are able to crawl up into their daddy's lap, and come and hear about who Jesus really is in a memorable way.  The kiddos also have REALLY enjoyed the pictures, drawn by Claudine Gevry. 

I'd have some granola and read this book!

I Can Be Fearless

Fearless is Mr. Me-Too jumping off the couch and trusting that you will catch him, even if YOU weren't planning on this Olympic event. Fearless is Mr. Smiley enthusiastically climbing the stairs with no one behind him to catch him when he teeters from looking down at his independent accomplishment. Fearless is Mr. Smackdown wading out into the lake with a big smile on his face. Fearless is the Hottie Hubby learning to snowboard or jumping off a high cliff on our honeymoon. And my fearless event . . . perhaps having a baby at home.

Fear is shown as I am apprehensive to place our U2 tickets in Hottie Hubby's car, out of a crazy fear that the car might get stolen. (Who cares about the car; I want to go to the concert.) Fear is cringing at the thought of leaving the drier on when we leave the house, even though there is only 5 minutes left in the cycle. Fear is wondering if my doctor really washed his hands with soap before he touched me.

I must admit that it has been a long time since I read a Max Lucado book. When I first began my friendship with Jesus in high school, I devoured Max's books. They provided the mortar to solidify my new faith, filling in the cracks with understanding.

But then I started reading books about biology, accounting, teaching . . . marriage . . . kids, etc. Through the Thomas Nelson Blogger Review program, I was given the opportunity to revisit Max Lucado with his latest book, Fearless.

I heartily and robustly proclaim that this is a must read, and perhaps a keeper on your bookshelf. Though I am 16 years old in the Lord, I was encouraged and challenged to evaluate areas in my life where I struggled with doubt, fear, and mistrust. That probably doesn't sound like an appealing book to read . . . who wants to be reminded of their fears? But trust me, Max leaves you with a feeling (based on the firm foundation of the Bible) of hope, confidence, and trust in the purposes of God.

Even better than just reading this book, discuss the contents of this book with a trusted friend or a support group. Located in the back of the book, are discussion questions that will really help to reinforce and remind us of the timeless truths found in this book.

Oh, and I know that you are waiting to hear my favorite chapters . . . 10, 11, 12. I'll keep the titles a secret, so you can go check the book out!

Stick Figure Bible with Grapevine Press

I really want my kids to love God. But I don't want to force God on them. I don't want them to grow up feeling like Jesus was crammed down their throats. I want them to clearly see that God created them and loves them so much that He doesn't force Himself upon them.

Case in point: I love it when Mr. Smackdown gives me a spontaneous hug because he feels that gushy feeling in his heart, and the only thing he knows to do is squeeze me. Hugs from Mr. Smackdown are few and far between. But on occasion, due to some infraction, the Hottie Hubby (no offense) instructs Mr. Smackdown to give me a hug as part of his apology and this is met with opposition. To me, the hug doesn't carry nearly as much weight and bring joy as a freely given hug, one that was a choice.

God is the same way. He doesn't want to FORCE us to love Him. It doesn't mean anything. He wants us to make a choice. It means more. It causes us to love deeper, and not be resentful.

At some point in each of our lives, a choice to commit to or ignore a daily, personal friendship and interaction with God must occur.

I see that beyond providing my children with the necessities of life, my single most important job is providing opportunities for them to naturally learn about God and experience Him in practical ways.

Train up a child in the way he should go,
And when he is old he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6

But this wasn't happening. Each time I tried to train Mr. Smackdown using a particular Bible resource last year, it was met with resistance.

I dreaded Bible time.

And then a package arrived in the mail. And it gave me hope.


As you know, I blog for The Old SchoolHouse Homeschool Crew. Throughout this coming year, I have and will receive various emails and packages at my door or on my computer of curriculum to sample and offer my opinion.

Praise God that I have had the privilege to review Grapevine Studies. I don't know if they will decorate your package, but mine came with a personal message as you can see.

Really, I don't know that I really even need to offer my own comments because Mr. Smackdown eloquently exudes excitement and a happy devotion to learning about God's Word in the following video:




Anyway, the Hottie Hubby and I decided to use the New Testament Overview with Mr. Smackdown.



We really think that it is important for our kids to be well versed in all aspects of the Bible. Thus far, I have been so pleased with Grapevine Studies, that I plan on doing the Old Testament Overview when we finish the New Testament Overview. Which reminds me . . . as one of my readers, you can get 30% off until September 15th, 2009 using the code crews at checkout if you decide to use Grapevine Studies as your Bible curriculum. You can get either an ebook or a hard copy. I have yet to enter the ebook revolution, and opted to kill a few tress so that I would have a hard copy teacher's manual and student book. Obviously, the ebooks are cheaper.


Being artsy-fartsy and a former kindergarten teacher, I am enjoying the multi-discipline aspects of Grapevine Studies. Not only is Mr. Smackdown learning about the Bible, BUT he is gaining body awareness through drawing stick figures, and learning how to follow step-by-step directions as I show him how to draw each picture.

Our times together in the Word, have been so sweet. We typically sit down over some tea, discuss what we drew last time, read our lesson, and draw. The lessons are short but powerfully allow us to focus on specific aspects of Scripture.

It has been such a blessing!





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