tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5621977521668504002024-03-06T23:52:14.259-08:00Mozi EsméThe day-to-day adventures of an 10-year-old girl growing up in rural Oregon...Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.comBlogger1458125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-70163134284373702892017-12-06T23:23:00.003-08:002017-12-06T23:28:21.099-08:00Review: Let The Little Children ComeOne of my alter egos gets to try to keep a small group of 7-12 yos entertained, or at least contained, and occasionally get in a few deep and meaningful discussions and biblical lessons snuck in after church every week or two. It adds variety and spice to an otherwise <strike>dull and monotonous</strike> maddeningly stressful and chaotic existence. Aside from frequent mention of poop and two front teeth (usually not in the same sentence), it's a pretty fun little group.<br />
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<i>He said freely, freely<br />You have received<br />Freely, freely give.<br />
Go in My name<br />And because you believe<br />Others will know that I live.</i>
</blockquote>
This last week's lesson was about Jesus sending his disciples out two by two, no change of clothes (ewww), but simply the power to preach and heal and cast out demons. And the takeaway was that God always gives us the power to do what He asks of us, and we simply need to be willing to go in His name.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>All power is given in Jesus' name</i><br />
<i>In earth and heaven in Jesus' name,</i><br />
<i>And in Jesus' name I come to you</i><br />
<i>To share His power as He told me to.</i></blockquote>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOk_Q91sPA_7hb2EIDrR6-KmYFY1Qg6hwQMRbceRy4uVTa4ejS2155TRBh6dpk9wKbxFXxIqSjqGbL2DlRqInjoxwRu5F96VsZ9Ypw0870_-KljQXdwCTq_wpI_KGijvteSO9Xvi7lxz4/s1600/20171202_124237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOk_Q91sPA_7hb2EIDrR6-KmYFY1Qg6hwQMRbceRy4uVTa4ejS2155TRBh6dpk9wKbxFXxIqSjqGbL2DlRqInjoxwRu5F96VsZ9Ypw0870_-KljQXdwCTq_wpI_KGijvteSO9Xvi7lxz4/s200/20171202_124237.jpg" width="150" /></a>So we wrapped up with prayer (for safety of parents and hippos and other such things) and headed into the kids' favorite part of the program: free time. And I brought out my <i>Let The Little Children Come </i>sample pack and laid the contents on the table to see what their response would be. Would it be enough to distract them from their favorite activity of hurling themselves into the giant brown beanbag?<br />
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It was. I watched as one would figure out how the FlipAbout or the Animated Tracts worked and share them with another. One 7yo girl was drawn to the salvation bracelets, and I talked through what each color represented with her - a simple and beautiful story of salvation.<br />
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<strong>Overview of Product</strong><br />
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<i>Let The Little Children Come</i> aims to provide effective gospel tracts and evangelism tools and resources for children.
It is the hope that these tools and resources will help you in conveying the powerful gospel message to children. These gospel tracts are all specially designed to capture and hold the attention of children, while not distracting them
from the core message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcinB9OwQwySfhpU1tjMFu2z1o4qn5VbPzFa6nr6nIz53SNISQi-UgiQaG-z3dwcN7IqwXCDfg8Q_OKKHct9_hJMfXOAfQyaKcK3bMKaErpDM9CEPZpLmNbsZ1I1PQbATQ0SmuPPkvX0/s1600/PastedGraphic-1.tiff" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="243" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcinB9OwQwySfhpU1tjMFu2z1o4qn5VbPzFa6nr6nIz53SNISQi-UgiQaG-z3dwcN7IqwXCDfg8Q_OKKHct9_hJMfXOAfQyaKcK3bMKaErpDM9CEPZpLmNbsZ1I1PQbATQ0SmuPPkvX0/s1600/PastedGraphic-1.tiff" /></a><strong>Sample Pack Description</strong><br />
<blockquote>
This Sampler Pack contains 10 of their most popular Gospel Tracts and Evangelism Tools. Make evangelism fun with these awesome Gospel Tracts! Included are </blockquote>
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<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/john-316-animated-tract">John 3:16 Animated Tract</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/gospel-buttons-flipabout">Gospel Buttons FlipAbout</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/the-most-amazing-house-pop-up-tract">The Most Amazing House Pop-up Tract</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/wordless-bracelet-kit">Wordless Bracelet Kit</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/the-true-story-of-christmas-animated-tract">The True Story of Christmas Animated Tract</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/the-lost-easter-egg-pop-up-tract">The Lost Easter Egg Pop-up Tract</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/john-316-flipabout-english">John 3:16 FlipAbout</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/silicone-salvation-bracelet-medium">Silicone Salvation Bracelet</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/wheres-everybody-going-animated-tract">Where's Everybody Going? Animated Tract</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/wordless-book">Wordless Book</a> </li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<div>
<strong>List Price per Sample Pack: </strong>$11.95 (volume pricing available)<br />
<strong>To Buy:</strong> <a href="https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/gospel-tracts-and-evangelism-tools-sampler-pack">https://www.letthelittlechildrencome.com/child-evangelism-tools/gospel-tracts-and-evangelism-tools-sampler-pack</a><br />
<br />
<strong>Mom’s Review:</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiokCkCk9qC919B7rQq7LFWQTESfp7CsbfcY_0znL3xmZ9wd9_V48v77_nDBaEkGs8UxvG3tsgAISOZWM_mfHMsaj3Dt_xt19JtDxRo043gjrLv_m8xWbTHen8HHfWSioxCjZIT1GHeEFA/s1600/20171206_205710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiokCkCk9qC919B7rQq7LFWQTESfp7CsbfcY_0znL3xmZ9wd9_V48v77_nDBaEkGs8UxvG3tsgAISOZWM_mfHMsaj3Dt_xt19JtDxRo043gjrLv_m8xWbTHen8HHfWSioxCjZIT1GHeEFA/s320/20171206_205710.jpg" width="240" /></a><strong>Focus. </strong>These tools all point to the message of salvation, with no complicated doctrines to distract from this simple message.<br />
<br />
<strong>Simple to Understand and Share. </strong>All of these items were easy for kids to share with other kids. There were items for the non-readers to share, like the bracelets and the Gospel Buttons FlipAbout. This is a great way to help kids see how simple it is to help spread the gospel message.<br />
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<strong>Novelty. </strong>These weren't just simple little books; they had something interesting going on to grab a kid's attention and make sharing easy! The favorites in our group were the Animated Tracts and the FlipAbouts - these were new to most of them. While the FlipAbouts were a little challenging for the youngest, they were most interesting to the older ones.<br />
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<em>I like the sample pack so one can get an idea of what products would appeal most and which are most useful for a specific group in terms of age and message. Some of the topics were better suited for our group so I would be much more likely to order those specific items in bulk.</em><br />
<em><br /></em>
<em><b>Who says God can't use kids to spread the Good News?! Let's equip them with great tools and see His power revealed!</b></em><br />
<em><br /></em>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for a sample of this product in echange for this review and post. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.</span></i></div>
Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-76114465989868520632017-12-01T18:53:00.000-08:002017-12-01T19:04:35.980-08:00Review/Giveaway: Adored<div style="text-align: left;">
Little kids are so adorable. I'm thankful for Facebook and other apps that remind me of how cute Miss Esmé was on this day 10 years ago, or 7 years ago, or 5 years ago.</div>
<br />
Then they grow up.<br />
<br />
So Miss Esmé was writing an essay on her life the other day, and she needed some tidbits to add interest, so I pulled up some old blog posts to remind us of all the adorable adventures she had. Like when she decided to make it "rain" in the kitchen with her watercolor paints. Or make sandcastles with the kitty litter. Or shove the library card into the photo computer slot at Walmart. Or name her hobby horse "Bordello." Or take the house key off the keychain and stick it into a book about fireflies that was on its way back to the library. Or insist on ketchup on her ice cream. Or color the cat blue and cut a hole in her bedspread all in the same day.<br />
<br />
So as she was reading the posts, she said she wished I would still write about her that way. And I mentioned how she wanted us to respect her privacy and probably not share those kinds of things with the world anymore, and she said that was true.<br />
<br />
But I get what she means. I thought she was adorable, and I conveyed that in what I wrote, and we maybe don't do such a good job of conveying how adorable we still think she is. Instead we mostly just get on her case all the time for not getting her math homework done.<br />
<br />
Isn't she? Adorable still?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3TVZc01VKN7YdzTUrnSSqOKrlwxBWeEtLbKDiHGLK2vrRC83eSCmw7NXp6DpDFjgoJogwdz06kw09LMLIrMvNKfh0jPIFZOW4BrpNDen_BDklJWoAo0yPSFNys6zpiarWrejqQpTwPgY/s1600/20171201_184436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3TVZc01VKN7YdzTUrnSSqOKrlwxBWeEtLbKDiHGLK2vrRC83eSCmw7NXp6DpDFjgoJogwdz06kw09LMLIrMvNKfh0jPIFZOW4BrpNDen_BDklJWoAo0yPSFNys6zpiarWrejqQpTwPgY/s400/20171201_184436.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Sometimes as a teen or tween, it's hard to remember how adored one really is. You just keep hearing about all the expectations you're not meeting and how you keep falling short.<br />
<br />
So this book is for you, the adored daughter of God. Adored by your parents, but more importantly, by the God of the universe. A daily reminder for a whole year of just how adored you really are. <i>Adored: 365 Devotions for Young Women </i>by Lindsay A. Franklin.<br />
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<strong>Synopsis of Book</strong><br />
<blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu75fE_Et1mxw4gaRMmwBvHgbHlhc2wLaBN98taoIbWyuPZqOQ9qzmFhSCMc8chxhEoa-4kS6Mjtnj4eetlbNvwOXP3BycYvc02hLYNRWTSR52rR3YlUmpXPHmvt63-C7bttPBAVFfb8/s1600/Adored_3D_2-1024x1019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1020" data-original-width="1024" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu75fE_Et1mxw4gaRMmwBvHgbHlhc2wLaBN98taoIbWyuPZqOQ9qzmFhSCMc8chxhEoa-4kS6Mjtnj4eetlbNvwOXP3BycYvc02hLYNRWTSR52rR3YlUmpXPHmvt63-C7bttPBAVFfb8/s200/Adored_3D_2-1024x1019.jpg" width="200" /></a>In an ever-changing world, we can be certain of one thing: we are beloved by God. Adored: 365 Devotions for Young Women tackles tough topics girls face, from bullying and social media to friendships and dating, all the while showing readers how infinitely precious they are in God’s sight.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Each day features an easy-to-read, relevant devotion paired with a scripture verse and journaling space to help readers reflect on the day’s message. With honest, poignant, and sometimes humorous text, every page will speak to the pressures and changes girls face, giving them real-world applications to find God in their hearts and in their lives. Perfect for everyday use, <i>Adored</i> will resonate with girls searching for truth and guidance. Gift givers will love this highly-designed book featuring a beautiful, foiled cover, and two-color interior pages.</blockquote>
<strong>Genre:</strong> Christian young women's devotional; ages 13+<br />
<div>
<strong>Physical Description:</strong> Hardcover, 384 pages<br />
<strong>List Price: </strong>$14.99 (on sale now!)<br />
<strong>To Buy:</strong> <a href="https://www.christianbook.com/adored-365-devotions-for-young-women/9780310762799/pd/762794">https://www.christianbook.com/adored-365-devotions-for-young-women/9780310762799/pd/762794</a><br />
<strong>To Sample:</strong> <a href="https://info.zondervan.com/adored-devotional/">https://info.zondervan.com/adored-devotional/</a><br />
<br />
<strong>Mom’s Review:</strong><br />
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<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>Physical Book. </strong>This book is available in Kindle format, but I recommend the print version to utilize the journaling spots on each page. The book is sturdy and small enough to be easily portable in a backpack if desired. The graphics and layout are attractive and, in blue and gold, a nod to girls who are ready to graduate from bright colors to a more "mature" look.<br />
<br />
<strong>Focus. </strong>I love how this book juxtaposes God's adoration of us with our adoration of Him. As we sing "O come let us adore Him" this season, the word "Adored" takes on fresh meaning. As we adore the greatness of who He is, His adoration of us becomes more significant. The breadth of topics is great - from Cookie-Monster-impatience to betrayal of BFFs to the use of the Internet to the concept of perfectionism, but that adoration of God remains a theme throughout.<br />
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<strong>Short and Sweet. </strong>As this school year progresses, our mornings get shorter and shorter. This is easy to fit in - I confess to reading it aloud sometimes as Miss School Girl puts on her shoes in a rush to get out the door. With a Bible verse to start, I know it's a great thing to insert in those busy mornings.<br />
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<div align="left">
<strong>Relevance. </strong>I'm enjoying the book as much as my daughter is. The concepts are mature - for someone who already has encountered Christ and wants to progress in the relationship - but are presented in relation to every-day activities and concerns.</div>
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<em>Start the new year knowing the young girl in your life feels adored by sharing this book with her! Better yet, share the journey with her and feel that sense of adoration for yourself...</em><br />
<em><br /></em>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>GIVEAWAY!</b></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Would you like your own copy of this book? Simply comment on this post for a chance to win! Make sure I have a way to contact you if your name is randomly selected on December 7th, 2017. Continental US shipping addresses only.</b><br />
<em><br /></em>
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<br />
<b class="yiv5057065143" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1512180584747_4987" style="-webkit-padding-start: 0px; background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. </span><span class="yiv5057065143" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;">Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.</span><span class="yiv5057065143" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span class="yiv5057065143" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span class="yiv5057065143" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1512180584747_4984" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;">If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.</span><span class="yiv5057065143" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span class="yiv5057065143" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span class="yiv5057065143" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;">Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again.</span><span class="yiv5057065143" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span class="yiv5057065143" id="yui_3_16_0_ym19_1_1512180584747_5021" style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> Winner is subject to eligibility verification.</span></div>
Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-51702893479914943232017-09-29T20:55:00.000-07:002017-09-29T20:56:07.817-07:00Review: Brave BeautyMedia today inundates our girls with messages about bravery. Movies like Disney's <i>Brave </i>tell them that bravery comes from within. That they just need to search themselves for the bravery to change their fate and be whatever they want to be.<br />
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It sounds all nice and good. It motivates us for a few days or weeks or months. We cheerleader ourselves into an excited frenzy and go for the gold. Until we deplete the cheers and we search far enough into ourselves to realize we're empty. At rock bottom.<br />
<br />
Unless... Unless we've got Christ living within us. The Christ Who tells us over and over in His Word to "Fear not," to "Take courage, for I have overcome the world."<br />
<br />
Miss Esmé is 10 years old. <i>How did this happen?</i> She started a new adventure this year by enrolling in Roseburg Junior Academy, a small Christian school. Twelve students in her class, a mix of grades 5-8. She's "the new kid." After three years of schooling at home, it takes a little bravery to get up every morning and walk into the classroom.<br />
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So we've been starting every morning with a devotional reading from the book, <i>Brave Beauty: Finding the Fearless You</i>, by Lynn Cowell. Aimed at tweens like Esmé, the book is a set of 100 devotionals that invite girls to think about who they are in God's eyes. It's a gorgeous hardcover book with attractive, easy-to-read layout. The author uses a conversational tone to tell stories, some from the Bible and her own experiences, to inspire girls to face their days with bravery and confidence. Each chapter ends with a "Becoming Brave" or "Getting to Know You" interactive section, followed by a "Courageous Call," or first-person prayer personalizing the day's topic. While it's meant to be read by the girl alone (like a diary) to encourage honesty and intimacy with God, we've been reading together for purposes of this review.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDWvhWdIJyLYGPrAVpHDR5TLWsVUWEqrd4sh27y9r_oebgDIk3aHaMAHHhJpBxtsVyEMM56NAB4Z4pZIexLIqvT29jwGhUx6f-DjR_JkMclG-tPG3pjYr8LtWNDQVCEf5Nabd_NP2Ear4/s1600/IMG_20170929_184443_834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1564" data-original-width="1564" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDWvhWdIJyLYGPrAVpHDR5TLWsVUWEqrd4sh27y9r_oebgDIk3aHaMAHHhJpBxtsVyEMM56NAB4Z4pZIexLIqvT29jwGhUx6f-DjR_JkMclG-tPG3pjYr8LtWNDQVCEf5Nabd_NP2Ear4/s320/IMG_20170929_184443_834.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
<strong>Synopsis of Book</strong><br />
<blockquote>
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</div>
What will my life be like? Who will I be? Whether girls put these concerns into words or struggle anxiously with these thoughts, during this season of change, girls have questions. Sometimes these questions also come with fears and they need a safe place to process these fears. From Proverbs 31 Ministries speaker and blogger, Lynn Cowell, comes Faithgirlz <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Brave Beauty: Finding the Fearless You.</em> For girls 8-12, <em style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Brave Beauty</em> brings tweens 100 courage-building moments to reflect on Scripture and find confidence in God, rather than in someone, some place, or some thing, as culture will all-too-soon tell them to. Lynn will also prepare girls to:</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<ul>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Overcome confidence-defeating thoughts and stand on who Jesus says she is.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Shape her self-worth on Christ and overcome the temptation base it on environmental factors.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Build a strong foundation to face the fickle and flippant opinions of others.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Find approval of herself even when she lacks the acceptance of others.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Find security by turning to Christ as she steps through the exciting, yet scary world of growing up</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Formatted as theme-based mini chapters, these moments can be read as one-a-days, one-a-weeks, or at the reader’s own pace. Simple and empowering, Lynn’s voice is relatable and conversational, making it easy for girls to feel like they’re spending time with a friend. This inspirational read will be set as a gorgeously foil decorated hardcover, with beautifully formatted pages in line with the well-known and loved Faithgirlz look, and with an easy-reference index to look up any topic.</blockquote>
<strong>About the Author</strong>
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Lynn Cowell is a part of the Proverbs 31 Ministries speaking team, speaking to pre-teens, teens, multi-generational and women’s conferences and retreats on a regular basis. Girls often come up to her saying, "How did you know that's what I was going through?" Hearing direction and guidance on critical issues they face, Lynn encourages them to reach their fullest potential by finding the relationship in Christ they were created them for. For the past 18 years, her ministry has helped thousands of girls and their moms:</blockquote>
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<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Replace loneliness, rejection, and pain with acceptance, affirmation, and approval.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Make decisions that lead women to reaching their fullest potential, rather than being a victim to emotionally-based decisions.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Shift faith in Jesus from a parental influence to a personal, growing relationship.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Develop and stick to boundaries that protect the heart, mind, and body.</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Communicate with guys and other girlfriends in a healthy and positive way.</li>
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In addition to speaking on the national level, Lynn reaches many through her writing as an author of three books, blogger, and devotion writer. As a regular contributor for the Proverbs 31 Ministries’ daily devotions, Encouragement for Today, her devotions reach an audience of over 800,000 subscribers. She has been a regular contributor for The Whatever Girls and The Mom Initiative. Lynn and her husband, Greg, of 30 years, are the parents of three young adults: Zak, Mariah, and Madi. The Cowells reside in North Carolina where they enjoy hiking in the mountains, wearing well-worn sweatshirts and eating anything that combines chocolate and peanut butter. </blockquote>
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<strong>Genre:</strong> Christian girls' devotional; ages 8-12<br />
<strong>Physical Description:</strong> Hardcover, 320 pages<br />
<strong>List Price: </strong>$15.99<br />
<strong>To Buy:</strong> <a href="http://www.zondervan.com/brave-beauty">http://www.zondervan.com/brave-beauty</a><br />
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<strong>Mom’s Review:</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElsvMw0evUTMjxA3pgZSpt0U-DwPbg0vDdGQOxqKQU8AzwC4qadZq5Olo0yDEsMMAdECrvrWlwM_v_RMjuFlUR5olf-9gJH9PuIDwIiN9je0Tlcqb5H0NJTR8dGF7kgmQfmLW9xDIEPA/s1600/IMG_20170911_204117_438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1281" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhElsvMw0evUTMjxA3pgZSpt0U-DwPbg0vDdGQOxqKQU8AzwC4qadZq5Olo0yDEsMMAdECrvrWlwM_v_RMjuFlUR5olf-9gJH9PuIDwIiN9je0Tlcqb5H0NJTR8dGF7kgmQfmLW9xDIEPA/s320/IMG_20170911_204117_438.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<strong>Physical Book. </strong>This book is available in Kindle format, but I highly recommend the print version. Receiving the book was like receiving a sweet gift - just beautiful and a delight to page through with a modern, eye-catching design. In addition, there are spots to write in the "Getting to Know You" and "Becoming Brave" sections - these are definitely easier to utilize with a physical copy.<br />
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<strong>Focus. </strong>While the conversational tone is highly personalized and relevant to the reader, it's about God's work in you rather than simply about you. Unlike most self-help books, it ends each devotional with a conversation with the God who is the source of brave beauty. It starts with the very basic message of God's love and salvation (appropriate for even those with no Christian background) and grows from there. While there are plenty of scripture quotes, they are thrown naturally into the narrative rather than highlighted as a "verse of the day" (ensuring that they get read rather than glossed over... :))<br />
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<strong>100 Short Chapters. </strong>I've enjoyed my share of calendar devotional books, but I must say there's something to be said about simply having 100 chapters. You can start on any day of the year rather than waiting for January 1. You can read just on certain days (school days for us), and if you miss a day, you don't have to play catch-up, but just start where you left off. The chapters are short enough to fit in a busy day, but not shallow - the ending sections pull the reader in for introspection and connection with God.<br />
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<strong>Relevance. </strong>The author shares a lot of stories from her own tween years to make the book personal and relevant. To be honest, as an introspective former diary-keeper, I probably relate more to those stories than my daughter, who is a tackle-the-world-head-on extrovert who would rather write and share songs than journal about events and feelings, but there is still plenty for her to relate to.</div>
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<em>Overall, this is a sweet way to add some God-given courage to each day and to counteract some of the self-focused messaging (both positive and negative) that your tween girl is constantly bombarded with. It would make a perfect gift for significant events like birthdays and Christmas, but can be started on any day of the year.</em><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): </strong>Many thanks to Handlebar for coordinating this book for review and to Zondervan for providing the book. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></div>
Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-25863067127840850172016-02-03T23:30:00.000-08:002016-02-04T00:01:36.030-08:00Review/Giveaway: Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids<div align="center">
<strong>Giveaway below! Scroll down and comment on this post for a chance to win!</strong> </div>
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We've been talking a lot about plans lately. Is there a perfect plan for your life? Can you veer off the plan and then need to figure out Plan B since you messed up Plan A? And then Plan C and D and on through ZZZZZ?<br />
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Or does God know you so intimately, having formed you as you are, that He knows exactly what choices you will make, and lovingly sets up the events that will shape your life for His perfect purpose? Can you trust Him with each moment and not stress over whether you've messed it all up when you turned left instead of right?<br />
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Lots of stuff to think about, especially for our kiddos who have their whole lives ahead, their dreams all within reach. How do we keep them grounded in Christ, an integral part of each day of their lives?<br />
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<br />
<strong>Synopsis of Book</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYm9BW-qyVc5GbfLCE9GxiFkbA9aeipEvwmyzDEXo5SVnMk8u6IKrIU_rMVkEJlqahLZeGTaRz9UdmoTC9APW0u_whiUM6KR2NO7q4dL_uL63e9LQ3U1z7UDzO5V20psKdyfRJuMLiiE/s1600/JesusToday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkYm9BW-qyVc5GbfLCE9GxiFkbA9aeipEvwmyzDEXo5SVnMk8u6IKrIU_rMVkEJlqahLZeGTaRz9UdmoTC9APW0u_whiUM6KR2NO7q4dL_uL63e9LQ3U1z7UDzO5V20psKdyfRJuMLiiE/s200/JesusToday.jpg" width="146" /></a></div>
Jesus is the Friend who is always with you. <i>Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids</i> will pour this powerful truth into your children's hearts as they learn that He knows everything about them and loves them more than they can imagine. Each devotion is based on Scripture and is written as though Jesus is speaking directly to you, assuring that He is in control, that He is good, and that an amazing future awaits all who put their hope in Him. Adapted from the ECPA 2013 Christian Book of the Year-winner <i>Jesus Today</i>, this devotional has the same themes as the adult version, as well as written-out scriptures. It is a great choice for families to read and discuss during devotional time together.</blockquote>
<strong>About the Author</strong><br />
<blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW3Rauur64IzmFBYygZLkwPuJdB15H_rvNU_HYDkOFcwLFKFA04GPhI-KV2I32SUYVuHlOaeo5HQ5quVBWF_HPavdbcuoaLbc3znCUPbeeZt4HD0YO7n964YbxaZUonefrzFhoQtdA6U8/s1600/Author2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW3Rauur64IzmFBYygZLkwPuJdB15H_rvNU_HYDkOFcwLFKFA04GPhI-KV2I32SUYVuHlOaeo5HQ5quVBWF_HPavdbcuoaLbc3znCUPbeeZt4HD0YO7n964YbxaZUonefrzFhoQtdA6U8/s1600/Author2.jpeg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Plans1[4].jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Author.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Journal4.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Plans1[4].jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Sarah Young's devotional writings are personal reflections from her daily quiet time of Bible reading, praying and writing in prayer journals. With sales of more than 14 million books worldwide, </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Jesus Calling</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> has appeared on all major bestseller lists. Sarah's writings include </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Jesus Calling</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">, </span><i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_22971" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Jesus Today</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">, </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Jesus Lives</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">, </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Dear Jesus</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">, </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Jesus Calling for Little Ones</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">, </span><i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_22974" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Jesus Calling Bible Storybook</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">, </span><i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_22979" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">, and </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Peace in His Presence </i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "segoe ui" , "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">-- each encouraging readers in their journey toward intimacy with Christ. Sarah and her husband were missionaries in Japan and Australia for many years. They currently live in the United States. </span></blockquote>
<strong>Genre:</strong> Christian; Devotional: ages 6-10<br />
<strong>Physical Description:</strong> Hardcover, 368 pages <br />
<strong>List Price: </strong>$15.99, currently $11.53 on Amazon <br />
<strong>To Buy:</strong> <a class="yiv2755523142" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0718038053/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1452613533&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=jesus+today+for+kids" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_22811" rel="noreferrer" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #196ad4; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0718038053/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1452613533&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=jesus+today+for+kids</a> <br />
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<b>Book Trailer: </b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zl-Qnlr5Rls&feature=youtu.be" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_22844" rel="noreferrer" style="background: transparent; color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zl-Qnlr5Rls&feature=youtu.be</a></div>
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<b>Facebook:</b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JesusCalling/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_22809" rel="nofollow" style="background: transparent; color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/JesusCalling/</a></div>
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<b>Twitter:</b> <a href="https://twitter.com/Jesus_Calling?lang=en" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_22807" rel="nofollow" style="background: transparent; color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/Jesus_Calling?lang=en</a></div>
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<b>Pinterest:</b> <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/Jesus_Calling/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_23109" rel="nofollow" style="background: transparent; color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">https://www.pinterest.com/Jesus_Calling/</a></div>
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<b>Google+:</b> <a href="https://plus.google.com/+Jesuscallingbook/posts" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_23135" rel="nofollow" style="background: transparent; color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">https://plus.google.com/+Jesuscallingbook/posts</a></div>
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<b>Instagram:</b> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jesuscalling/" id="yui_3_16_0_1_1454563571760_23136" rel="nofollow" style="background: transparent; color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/jesuscalling/</a></div>
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<strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> <br />
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<strong>Organization. </strong>There are two pages for each of 150 days; a devotional, written in first person as if it is Jesus speaking, followed by three scripture references. The days are not dated, so you can pick up the book and start at any time of the year - a big plus for me! There is a scripture index at the back, so this could be used as a reference book while reading through the Bible, as well as a daily devotional.<br />
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<strong>Appearance. </strong>This is a durable hardback with bold color. The graphic layout is fun, even cute, but gender neutral. A nice, attractive book that should stand the wear of being picked up and read 150 days in a row.<br />
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<strong>Bible Verses. </strong>One of my favorite parts; it gives Biblical context to the devotion and can be used for further study if desired. Scriptures are taken from the <i>International Children's Bible</i>, so they can be easily understood.</div>
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<strong>Devotions. </strong>In fairly simple language, though the concepts might be complex for a 6yo, these devotions personalize Jesus for a child.<br />
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<em>Overall, a nice addition to encourage and enhance your child's daily encounters with God!</em><br />
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<strong>Giveaway!</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
Yes, I can offer one blessed reader a copy of the <em>Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids</em> We’re going simple with giveaway entries here: <strong>just enter a comment of any kind on this post</strong>, along with your email address or other way for me to contact you. A winner will be randomly selected on <strong>February 12.</strong> Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller/Flyby Promotions in the last 30 days, or have one the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win. You must have a US or Canada mailing address to win.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): </strong>Many thanks to Propeller Consulting for coordinating this book for review and providing the giveaway prize. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i><br />
<i></i><br />
<i><strong>Don’t forget to leave a comment for your chance to win this giveaway!</strong></i>Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-43493220048568114612016-01-22T23:42:00.000-08:002016-02-04T00:21:19.309-08:00Review/Giveaway: The Plans I Have for You<div align="center">
<strong>Giveaway below! Scroll down and comment on this post for a chance to win!</strong> </div>
<div align="center">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
So my sister and I had a little conversation around Christmas time about being intentional in helping your child spend time with Jesus every day. Sure, Miss Esmé knows the Bible stories, we read a devotional and other books about Christian values each day, she’s got the head knowledge. But does she spend time with Him, talking and listening and just being?<br />
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Along comes a sweet devotional/journal combination that helps with that very purpose! <em>The Plans I Have for You</em> provides the inspiration for that daily time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccaYFkafeXL-15CppWMdPuy8XC5Kt5k0mzfMkGA4U8q_2QxF-hOaNgr0vqM6c6HSDBLlnCJPKB1PO0HzTpNPZAcaZlm4r7mHPTsPYkEkJU5Y_nw4LFgAGufBtZs-gA_HfE4RrZi1SnXA/s1600/Plans1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccaYFkafeXL-15CppWMdPuy8XC5Kt5k0mzfMkGA4U8q_2QxF-hOaNgr0vqM6c6HSDBLlnCJPKB1PO0HzTpNPZAcaZlm4r7mHPTsPYkEkJU5Y_nw4LFgAGufBtZs-gA_HfE4RrZi1SnXA/s320/Plans1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<strong>Synopsis of Book</strong><br />
<blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwWYqaTFF9-vziXbrljjfl2HsV2Sv0peB22ZK1SxO2uFSYztl68rff_G1Oy5FKaMh47tCaWBds9TyydFe4Y7JEi-9wZpMUvgRZxrkEInV6Mdh0vc4_-hBogiexAFibGL-Ky5T7o4WA2Q/s1600/Devotional.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtwWYqaTFF9-vziXbrljjfl2HsV2Sv0peB22ZK1SxO2uFSYztl68rff_G1Oy5FKaMh47tCaWBds9TyydFe4Y7JEi-9wZpMUvgRZxrkEInV6Mdh0vc4_-hBogiexAFibGL-Ky5T7o4WA2Q/s200/Devotional.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The devotional is an illustrated 90-day devotional written by bestselling children's book author Amy Parker and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, teaching and inspiring kids to dream about their future, to focus on faith, love, and joy, and recognize that God has a plan and purpose for each and every one of us.</blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlfEwk4cCIzEmYe7vHwIGRXycxXVNAMtvgdWp5IWxwxUjaCWLLiGL310xE2dQJv6VdUNSmuSty9Jv-owoX6BwTWFqGvrx0eDhE6R2pDs4mZ3M6A-zziRQPWNicwv7Zr6x8wCxi3la8-A/s1600/Journal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlfEwk4cCIzEmYe7vHwIGRXycxXVNAMtvgdWp5IWxwxUjaCWLLiGL310xE2dQJv6VdUNSmuSty9Jv-owoX6BwTWFqGvrx0eDhE6R2pDs4mZ3M6A-zziRQPWNicwv7Zr6x8wCxi3la8-A/s200/Journal.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The journal prompts creative thinking and exploration of the talents and personalities that make us special, and then helps explore how God may use our unique traits to spread love and joy and make the world a better place. </blockquote>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyRYDGd-t6pClJscOzGrt7H0UOwMLuQkHJ0Qq3HCpMC343RHwkwOscEvh3WazpqwHUJXpQw_vR0Bfj9RFdCsiol3QVEKxhnCqbNCZyF452OdoTKGqnnKPAgK-r0kDi_rp795JdLF0GNU/s1600/Author.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyRYDGd-t6pClJscOzGrt7H0UOwMLuQkHJ0Qq3HCpMC343RHwkwOscEvh3WazpqwHUJXpQw_vR0Bfj9RFdCsiol3QVEKxhnCqbNCZyF452OdoTKGqnnKPAgK-r0kDi_rp795JdLF0GNU/s200/Author.jpeg" width="133" /></a><strong>About the Author</strong><br />
<blockquote>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8n9ihy-soaSI5CYA7X3V_MZcNvXmuaIiKWDOG31rPjY1Oy81J7uOQC-NpChF16rzIRQGwnUVWNh2IaOm3Q8spPcz3B7wrK25HVCoFyJftrktyjdDsLDyI-MFFM5Pncw1ytxLogcOqb8/s1600/Illustrator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn8n9ihy-soaSI5CYA7X3V_MZcNvXmuaIiKWDOG31rPjY1Oy81J7uOQC-NpChF16rzIRQGwnUVWNh2IaOm3Q8spPcz3B7wrK25HVCoFyJftrktyjdDsLDyI-MFFM5Pncw1ytxLogcOqb8/s200/Illustrator.jpg" width="138" /></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Plans1[4].jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Author.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Journal4.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Plans1[4].jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Amy Parker has sold more than thirty books for children, teens, and adults. She has also collaborated with authors ranging from New York Times bestsellers to her very own son. Two of these collaborations are recipients of Christian retailing's Best Awards, and she has also won three Mom's Choice Awards. But Amy's greatest reward is being a wife to Daniel and a mom to their amazing sons, Michael and Ethan. </blockquote>
<strong>About the Illustrator</strong><br />
<blockquote>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Plans1[4].jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Author.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Journal4.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Plans1[4].jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Vanessa Brantley-Newton is a self-taught illustrator, doll maker, and crafter. Her passion for children's books began when she came across <i>The Snowy Day</i> by Ezra Jack Keats as a child in the 1960s. Growing up in a musical family who love to sing, Vanessa's illustrations are as fun and whimsical as a beautiful melody. Vanessa currently makes her nest in Charlotte, NC with her husband of 20 years, their daughter, and a very rambunctious cat named Stripes.</blockquote>
<strong>Genre:</strong> Christian; Devotional: ages 8-12; Journal: ages 11-14
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<strong>Physical Description:</strong> Devotional: hardcover, 160 pages; Journal: stationery, 208 pages <br />
<strong>List Price: </strong>Devotional: $14.99; Journal: $12.99 <br />
<strong>To Buy:</strong> Devotional: <a href="http://www.zondervan.com/the-plans-i-have-for-you-devotional" title="http://www.zondervan.com/the-plans-i-have-for-you-devotional">http://www.zondervan.com/the-plans-i-have-for-you-devotional</a>; Journal: <a href="http://www.zondervan.com/the-plans-i-have-for-you-journal" title="http://www.zondervan.com/the-plans-i-have-for-you-journal">http://www.zondervan.com/the-plans-i-have-for-you-journal</a> <br />
<strong>ZonderKidz Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Zonderkidz/" title="https://www.facebook.com/Zonderkidz/">https://www.facebook.com/Zonderkidz/</a>
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<strong>ZonderKidz Twitter:</strong> <a href="https://twitter.com/Zonderkidz" title="https://twitter.com/Zonderkidz">https://twitter.com/Zonderkidz</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRl_1jmk_7_LCTfnYsQ1F0gD3RoCNgO_ChOZzhMpPHKwXL2aXcctiif8MGx72BCpk8wREB967RNA3xnFEz9yLCkx2lZMnlzsaujhiu1DOYE2yubYMFU7j_8RaJiLeb0w_bBfjt4fVTpw/s1600/Plans4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRl_1jmk_7_LCTfnYsQ1F0gD3RoCNgO_ChOZzhMpPHKwXL2aXcctiif8MGx72BCpk8wREB967RNA3xnFEz9yLCkx2lZMnlzsaujhiu1DOYE2yubYMFU7j_8RaJiLeb0w_bBfjt4fVTpw/s320/Plans4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> <br />
<strong><br /></strong>
This is one of my favorite review products ever! I keep wanting to steal it for myself! Seriously, it’s absolutely perfect for the desires I have for my kid at this point in her life, where she’s starting to imagine the future and her role in it. Sectors include:<br />
<ul>
<li>I’ve Got Big Plans for YOU! </li>
<li>I’ve Given YOU a Purpose </li>
<li>I Don’t Do Things Small </li>
<li>There’s Nothing YOU Can’t Do! </li>
<li>Find That ONE Thing </li>
<li>What I Created YOU To Do </li>
</ul>
<strong>Focus. </strong>Kids are born self-centered. I’ve been trying to fight it, but it’s natural. This devotional/journal taps into that self-centeredness, making it appealing to kids, and uses it to shift the focus to the power of God and what He can do in you and through you.<br />
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<strong>Bible-Rich. </strong>Each day’s devotional includes a Bible verse or story, and the focus is on that Bible reference. Both the devotional and journal invite the child to contemplate what God is saying to her through that passage. <br />
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<strong>Illustrations. </strong>Love love love. Everything about both the devotional and journal is just visually appealing. The devotional is full color, while the journal is muted to allow the child to add the color. It compels the child to spend longer thinking through the Bible passage.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdmlVq2azi3kJzOrE3UW7OCvV93hGosxsc2XsEfHzQhCRSBNR1YpvAjopjxb3gynX40U0hZk-QiijlaPMxzOO-fEqf_wGvjnSfM7fnrmhYDzyuYF9mgXANK1uVyGp4j7eJ9u06tJ2WuVA/s1600/Plans2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdmlVq2azi3kJzOrE3UW7OCvV93hGosxsc2XsEfHzQhCRSBNR1YpvAjopjxb3gynX40U0hZk-QiijlaPMxzOO-fEqf_wGvjnSfM7fnrmhYDzyuYF9mgXANK1uVyGp4j7eJ9u06tJ2WuVA/s320/Plans2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong>Journal. </strong>You absolutely need the journal to go along with the devotional. This is my favorite part! The very first page is perfect for my daughter, who is all into secrets and locks on diaries at this point, with a request: “…if I don’t know you are looking at at my journal, put it down and go get your own. Please. And thank you.” Verses are repeated from the devotional, with awesome illustrations that invite the child to draw, doodle, contemplate, and think through how the verses are relevant to her.<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Plans1[4].jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Author.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Journal4.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=562197752166850400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/$Plans1[4].jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1d1pJO7Bnn0q5EiM3KZa_sSy5E88ZLai7yd3rNy9sfxoDiKXtCCY1imcYb7ugfWDabjG1o0aAicN8DK-R-dpHvnI8MoZ6UzGlxnNhkLR7-IBE_0LGX-WCzAWVq_qWw6QL2i4Fd7kskAA/s1600/Plans3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1d1pJO7Bnn0q5EiM3KZa_sSy5E88ZLai7yd3rNy9sfxoDiKXtCCY1imcYb7ugfWDabjG1o0aAicN8DK-R-dpHvnI8MoZ6UzGlxnNhkLR7-IBE_0LGX-WCzAWVq_qWw6QL2i4Fd7kskAA/s320/Plans3.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<em>This is an absolutely terrific, hopefully life-changing gift for the tweens in your life!</em><br />
<em><br /></em>
<strong>Giveaway!</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
Yes, I can offer one blessed reader a copy of the <em>The Plans I Have for You </em>devotional and journal! We’re going simple with giveaway entries here: <strong>just enter a comment of any kind on this post</strong>, along with your email address or other way for me to contact you. A winner will be randomly selected on <strong>February 1.</strong> Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller/FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, or have one the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win. You must have a US or Canada mailing address to win.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): </strong>Many thanks to FlyBy Promotions for coordinating this book for review and providing the giveaway prize. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i><br />
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<i><strong>Don’t forget to leave a comment for your chance to win this giveaway!</strong></i>Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-14000557139260559902016-01-01T23:46:00.002-08:002016-01-01T23:46:30.086-08:00Review: The Lion Comic Book Hero Bible<a href="https://www.blogger.com/$97807459561763.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Another year! Another beginning! Another opportunity to read the Bible through…<br />
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We’re down sick this week – all of us in the household – but it’s a good weekend to cuddle down and listen and read. To focus on the important instead of the mundane – in between blowing noses and trying to minimize germ spread.<br />
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So we’ve got this fun book to review – it says “Bible” in the title, but while it walks through the Bible nicely in chronological order, it’s more of an introductory brief – a great way to inspire interest and to get one looking deeper into the Book.<br />
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<strong>Synopsis of Book</strong><br />
<blockquote>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiny8cGfPysjY2rRYr1NJVQdl39EHPpr95CS3kgZlIg7DoO_QRPMN32LckF6Jf5x-PUzv_CtKUzzZgO-XbCGhV025YkhH3NK1MLuwlfVCFAzu3Ak6b9KEfNCRcoawW9iMKevR4SvRLj_aQ/s1600/9780745956176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiny8cGfPysjY2rRYr1NJVQdl39EHPpr95CS3kgZlIg7DoO_QRPMN32LckF6Jf5x-PUzv_CtKUzzZgO-XbCGhV025YkhH3NK1MLuwlfVCFAzu3Ak6b9KEfNCRcoawW9iMKevR4SvRLj_aQ/s320/9780745956176.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<b>A stunning new comic book version of the Bible now given the superhero treatment by the team behind <i>The Lion Graphic Bible</i> and <i>The Manga Bible.</i></b></blockquote>
<blockquote>
The story of the Bible is a unique tale of origins and cosmic powers; of the ageless battle between good and evil; of human potential and human treachery; and of a Messiah--a savior for the world. This is indeed the stuff that graphic novels are made of. Superheroes are the biggest comic genre of all, with many heroes having their origins in biblical characterization and imagery. This is the first Bible retelling to engage with and challenge the superhero genre.</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<i>The Lion Comic Book Hero Bible</i> is a dynamic expression of the Bible's depth and power, produced in the style of Marvel™ Comics. You've heard of Spiderman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. Now meet Earthman, Lawman, Warrior Man, and many others. With dynamic illustration using a range of styles, Siku (Old Testament) and Jeff Anderson (New Testament) bring the Bible stories alive for a new and graphically sophisticated generation.</blockquote>
<strong>About the Authors</strong><br />
<blockquote>
Siku--artist, author, theologian, and musician--is one of Britain's leading comic book/concept artists, having worked for 2000 AD producing titles such as <i>Judge Dredd</i>. He has also worked for Marvel UK and COM X.</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Richard Thomas is an artist, designer, and writer. He was the publisher at End Time Comics and his work includes projects for UNESCO, a graphic novel (<i>Riddler's Fayre</i>), and best-selling comics for Scripture Union. He is also the illustrator on the Book by Book Series of Dr. Paul Blackham and Reverend Richard Beives.</blockquote>
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Jeff Anderson is a leading graphic novel artist, best known for his work on the Judge Dredd and Transformers stories. Readers of <i>Comic World</i> voted him runner-up in the best artist category for his <i>Legends of Larian</i> books. He lives with his wife and five children in Durham, England, and is a licensed Lay Minister in the Church of England.</blockquote>
<strong>Genre:</strong> Children’s Christian Story Book ages 10+
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<strong>Physical Description:</strong> Hardback, 192 pages <br />
<strong>List Price: </strong>$19.95
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<strong>For More Info/To Buy:</strong> <a href="http://www.kregel.com/bibles/the-lion-comic-book-hero-bible-2/" title="http://www.kregel.com/bibles/the-lion-comic-book-hero-bible-2/">http://www.kregel.com/bibles/the-lion-comic-book-hero-bible-2/</a> <br />
<strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> <br />
<ul>
<li><strong>Great Overview. </strong>The book is chronologically organized and covers many stories – far more than most children’s Bible storybooks I’ve seen – albeit in very condensed form. </li>
<li><strong>Bible References.</strong> There is a page of Bible references in the back.That makes it easy to read the Bible passages that go along with each chapter for more context. </li>
<li><strong>Quality Graphics. </strong>The graphics are very well done. Lovers of comics will appreciate this. </li>
<li><strong>Creative Names. </strong>I’m loving the superhero names the authors have given Bible characters! Rainman becomes Rainbow Man after Waterworld (you can guess who that is), and then there are Earthman, Star Girl, Star-Men and Sheep-Men, Outsider, Deliverer, Rainmaker, Watchman, and many more heroes. </li>
<li><strong>Dark Side. </strong>We’ve dabbled in graphic history books for a bit to meet my 8yo daughter’s nonfiction reading requirements, and she’s noticed that there are often “dark” illustrations, scary even, with shadows and sinister-looking beings. You’ll find the same in this book. While she doesn’t appreciate it, it doesn’t stop her from reading. </li>
<li><strong>A Softer Side to the New Testament. </strong>After seeing the sharp shadows of the Old Testament heroes, I was pleasantly surprised to see a softer side to the drawings of Jesus. I realized later that a different artist did the New Testament chapters. Not that I don’t appreciate the Old – and perhaps it’s fitting for the darker time period that existed before the Light of the World was born? </li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/$97807459561763.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Overall, this book isn’t for everyone, and it’s not a standalone Bible. The littles, unless they are already comic book lovers, could find it a bit scary. However, it’s a well-designed, entertaining book that can inspire Bible study, and at the very least, encourage readers to see the familiar Bible characters in a whole new light.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Kregel Publications for coordinating this book for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i>Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-22892129508425764032015-12-25T00:02:00.000-08:002016-01-02T00:05:30.382-08:00Happy Birthday, Jesus!<div align="center">
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2015</div>
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2014</div>
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2013<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zN_h54Yr4Ik/UsA2VXxE5II/AAAAAAAAFcQ/B1Fxx9zK9kc/s1600-h/P1100606%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="P1100606" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NjqYTvlJDGM/UsA2WWPnTcI/AAAAAAAAFcY/ig_yTf2bRfw/P1100606_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="404" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1100606" width="304" /></a></div>
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2012</div>
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2011 </div>
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2010 </div>
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2009</div>
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2008 </div>
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_LZBRDnWBgA0/TSqcpaCk2QI/AAAAAAAABEQ/oQ6gJ4udKgw/s1600-h/image%5B7%5D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_LZBRDnWBgA0/TSqctkNzOJI/AAAAAAAABEU/tVBa21xh1ZA/image_thumb%5B3%5D.png?imgmax=800" height="303" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="image" width="404" /></a> <br />
<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GQyXWllz5Ao&hl=en_US&fs=1&"> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"> <param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GQyXWllz5Ao&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-59270017325182028542015-12-09T07:13:00.001-08:002015-12-09T07:13:16.122-08:00Review: The Midnight Visitors<p>Christmas. It’s all about Jesus.</p> <p>Since we want the focus at our house to be on Him, you’ll see a lot more nativity books in our house right now than Santa books (nothing personal against Santa, mind you). It’s easy for those books to blend together with the same storyline every time, though. So I’m constantly on the lookout for books that tell the story from different angles and with different twists.</p> <p>Here’s a sweet book for the littles that tells the story from the cow’s perspective.</p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gLe0KZ_334w/VmhFCAKaNCI/AAAAAAAAGCY/fSPYFTFKIlU/s1600-h/Midnight%252520VIsitors%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Midnight VIsitors" border="0" alt="Midnight VIsitors" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mjL9JC3uA1Y/VmhFCquhZYI/AAAAAAAAGCc/kKspWskEAH4/Midnight%252520VIsitors_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="210" height="244" /></a>Miriam was glad to be warm and cozy. There were so many people in the town but it was nice and peaceful inside her cowshed. Little did she know that she would soon be joined by Midnight Visitors . . . and not just any old visitors!</p> <p>Snuggle up and enjoy the warm, soft feel the art and narrative bring to this delightful Christmas picture book with a difference. </p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Author</strong></p> <blockquote> <p>Juliet David has written many children's stories and Bible activity books. Her other interests include painting, music, and travel to Israel and other Bible lands. This experienced author lives in London with her family.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Illustrator</strong></p> <blockquote> <p>Jo Parry trained at Bournemouth Arts Institute before becoming a full-time artist. She illustrates mainly greetings cards, fine art, and children's books, adapting her fun, colorful style to each of these genres. She creates her characteristic style using an Apple Mac, and is fulfilling a lifelong dream working as an illustrator. Jo lives in Bournemouth, on England's south coast.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Genre:</strong>  Children’s Christian Story Book ages 2-6 <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Hardback, 32 pages  <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$14.99 <br /><strong>For More Info/To Buy:</strong> <a title="http://www.kregel.com/childrens-story-books/the-midnight-visitors/" href="http://www.kregel.com/childrens-story-books/the-midnight-visitors/">http://www.kregel.com/childrens-story-books/the-midnight-visitors/</a> </p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <ul> <li><strong>Adorable! </strong>This book is pure sweetness!  Adorable animals making adorable sounds, climaxing with a special sweet baby. The words and colorful illustrations work very well together.</li> <li><strong>Read-aloud Sounds.</strong> Many pages highlight simple sounds that make this a fun read-aloud for the littles. “Ruff Ruff,” “To whit – to whoo,” Knock, knock!” to give a few.</li> <li><strong>Humor. </strong>There’s some good humor in the book to make it fun for the olders, as well! For instance, the innkeeper tells Mary and Joseph, “It’s the best I can do.” This is followed by the main character cow’s, thoughts: “What a cheek. There’s nothing wrong with my cowshed!”</li> </ul> <p>Overall, a terrific book to add to your Christmas collection. It’s about Jesus, and it’s written in a fun, sweet way that is guaranteed to appeal to your little ones.</p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Kregel Publications for coordinating this book for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-4324597592821663992015-11-20T23:25:00.000-08:002015-11-21T00:26:08.609-08:00Review: Ishtar’s Odyssey<p>The Christmas story. We’ve heard it over and over. If you’re looking for a way to make it fresh and meaningful this season, here’s a story for you.</p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gAgSatqHcBM/VlAqncNsUUI/AAAAAAAAGB8/FEcHnRbPRkE/s1600-h/Ishtar%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Ishtar" border="0" alt="Ishtar" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OYrCwxg4r_o/VlAqn7lZh9I/AAAAAAAAGCA/SOUDumwHHFU/Ishtar_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="225" height="244" /></a>A new Advent family devotional from the author of <i>Jotham's Journey</i>! Fourth in a set of Advent adventure books for families, <i>Ishtar's Odyssey</i> follows the ten-year-old son of a Persian wise man as their caravan follows a star across the desert. Ishtar would just as soon stay in the comfort of the palace, but slowly he learns that there's much to see, do, and learn in this world that can't be experienced in school. He eventually meets Jotham, Bartholomew, and Tabitha as he follows his father and uncles in their search for a newborn king.</p> <p> <br />Arnold Ytreeide's family advent devotionals have become a much-loved Christmas tradition, enjoyed by multiple generations. With over 100,000 in print they include <i>Jotham's Journey</i>, <i>Bartholomew's Passage</i>, and <i>Tabitha's Travels</i>.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Author</strong></p> <blockquote> <p>Arnold Ytreeide is a fine storyteller who cares deeply about spiritual growth in families. Ytreeide is the founder of Storyteller Productions and lives with his wife and two children in Nampa, Idaho.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Genre:</strong>  Children’s Christian Story Book  <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Paperback, 176 pages  <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$15.99 <br /><strong>For More Info/To Buy:</strong> <a title="http://www.kregel.com/arnold-ytreeide/ishtars-odyssey/" href="http://www.kregel.com/arnold-ytreeide/ishtars-odyssey/">http://www.kregel.com/arnold-ytreeide/ishtars-odyssey/</a> </p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <p>We’ve loved all of Ytreeide’s advent books! They are a great way to travel through Christmas season with a regular moment each day to remember Christ.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Adventure! </strong>Cliffhangers make you excited to continue the story the next day. As a prince, Ishtar has a unique set of adventures that run into some of Ytreeide's other characters’ adventures from time to time. There is mystery, death-defying excitement, scary moments, character transformation, and more.</li> <li><strong>Bible Tie-Ins. </strong>Esmé loves how the adventure is tied to Bible scriptures and truths. At the end of each chapter, the author ties the story’s events to a Bible text in a way that makes one think. These go beyond the nativity story to a better understanding of who Christ is and why His coming is so important to each of us even today.</li> <li><strong>Schedule. </strong>The chapters are spaced out nicely to fit into an advent schedule, and the story climaxes with Christ’s birth on Christmas day.</li> <li><strong>Persian Food Outline. </strong>This book has a neat Making Connections feature – an outline of foods and common kid-friendly substitutes that Ishtar enjoys during each chapter of his odyssey. To make the book come alive, plan your menus around the list.</li> <li><strong>Cultural Experience. </strong>The book does a great job of helping the reader understand the culture of the time, with historical tidbits, landmarks, and more. I was particularly intrigued with religious discussions – the concept of multiple gods versus one singular God, etc. in context of the predominant religions of the time.</li> <li><strong>A Child’s Perspective. </strong>It’s fun to travel throughout the nativity story from a child’s perspective that your children can relate to. The characters all have flaws; Ishtar is far from perfect. But he grows and becomes transformed through the truths he learns, and ideally your child will make a similar journey in the reading of this book.</li> <li><strong>It’s All About Jesus. </strong>The nativity story is beautiful straight from the Bible, but Ytreeide has mastered the art of retelling it from different perspectives to discover new truths each time.</li> </ul> <p>Ytreeide’s advent books have become a staple of our Christmas season, and this one does not disappoint. You don’t need to have read the others in order to appreciate this one, but having that context adds to the enjoyment of reading as you see how the main characters’ stories intersect.</p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Kregel Publications for coordinating this book for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-15908146211650506762015-11-19T06:41:00.001-08:002015-11-19T06:41:47.146-08:00Review: The Ology<p><em>God always was and always will be. God is all-powerful. God is in control. God is perfect. Jesus paid it all. The Word of God lives forever.</em></p> <p>Truths. The most important things you want your child to hang on to. Everything else in educating your child is secondary.</p> <p>How do you fit these truths into the busyness of home education? You can live them out each day, but if you want an organized approach with biblical references for sharing these truths, here’s a good resource for you…</p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><img style="display: inline; float: right" alt="Image 1" align="right" src="http://cdn1.bigcommerce.com/n-yp39j5/uh4v4/products/756/images/1461/the_ology_thumb__42879.1446564604.451.416.jpg?c=2" /><strong>A page-turning storybook of theology for kids</strong></p> <p>In the cellar of the old stone cathedral, Carla and Timothy uncover a life-changing treasure, a carefully wrapped ancient book known as <em>The Ology</em>. What adults might describe as a beautifully illustrated storybook of systematic theology, the kids discover to be a story of adventure, mystery, and wonder that leads them to the truth about God, themselves, and the world around them.</p> <p>Truth is for kids, not just for adults! So <em>The Ology</em> gives kids of all ages a beginner’s theology book to help them understand who God is and how we, as his children, relate to him. Arranged within a traditional systematic theological framework, each truth in <em>The Ology</em> is also connected to the larger redemptive story of Scripture. The doctrine of God, for example, is presented in the larger framework of creation, where the attributes of God are more clearly on display. <em>The Ology</em> takes abstract theological concepts and makes them easier to understand with the use of creative examples, illustrations, and analogies. The goal is not to say everything that could be said about a theological topic, but rather to share the key thoughts behind a theological concept. <em>The Ology</em> is a starting point to learning theology and aims to create a hunger and desire in children to learn more as they grow older.</p> <p>Designed for six-year-olds through preteens, this flexible resource includes built-in adaptations for use with younger or older children, so that entire families can enjoy it together. Read <em>The Ology</em> to preschoolers, read it with grade-school kids, and let older kids discover the “hidden” truths by reading the corresponding Scripture passages for each section. However you read it, <em>The Ology</em> will give your children a gift that will last a lifetime—a solid foundation of life-changing biblical truth that will point them to the God who loves them and gave himself for them.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Author</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Marty Machowski</strong> is a Family Life Pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, where he has served on the pastoral staff for over twenty years. He is the author of the Gospel Story for Kids series, which includes <em>The Gospel Story Bible, Long Story Short, Old Story New, </em>and the <em>Gospel Story</em><em> Curriculum, </em>as well as the Advent devotional and curriculum <em>Prepare Him Room. </em>He and his wife Lois and their six children reside in West Chester, Pennsylvania.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Genre:</strong>  Children’s Christian education (ages 6 – preteen) <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Hardcover, 224 pages  <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$29.99, currently $25.49 <br /><strong>For More Info/To Buy:</strong> <a title="http://stores.newgrowthpress.com/the-ology-ancient-truths-ever-new/" href="http://stores.newgrowthpress.com/the-ology-ancient-truths-ever-new/">http://stores.newgrowthpress.com/the-ology-ancient-truths-ever-new/</a> </p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <ul> <li><strong>Introduction and Conclusion. </strong>This book has a fun little intro and conclusion that kids can relate to and that excites them about what is inside.</li> <li><strong>Organization. </strong>The book is neatly organized into 71 chapters that logically walk kids through the major tenets of the Christian faith. The table of contents allows you to easily jump to a topic if needed.</li> <li><strong>Bible References. </strong>Each chapter includes scripture supporting scripture quotes, in addition to scripture references if you’d like to read more on the subject.</li> <li><strong>The Relatable Writing. </strong> The chapters include object lessons or anecdotes that make it easier for a child to relate to the topic. For instance, in describing the animal sacrifices, it says, “They were a little like cleaning your room by shoving everything under the bed. The bed covers the mess but the mess is still there,” and describes the need for Jesus’ ultimate cleansing sacrifice.</li> <li><strong>Illustrations & Design. </strong>The subtle colors of the attractive artwork and graphic design add to the appeal of the book without overwhelming the topics being addressed.</li> <li><strong>The Questions at the End of the Book. </strong>Both the scripture references and the questions/answers at the end of the book (one for each chapter) make it easy to use this book as an educational resource or component of a homeschool curriculum.</li> </ul> <p>I would make the suggestion that the book be read by parent and child together. While most of the writing is universal for Christians of all denominations, there may be some doctrinal differences or variances. While I personally found variances on the topics of death and baptism, I see this as an opportunity to explore and discuss the topics more deeply with my child. </p> <p>Overall, this book is a great resource for Christian parents.</p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for coordinating this book for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-61335991495852330222015-11-14T20:56:00.001-08:002015-11-14T20:56:04.730-08:00Review/Giveaway: Christmas Time: It’s All About Jesus!<a href="https://anekopress.com/christmas-time/"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Christmas-Time-Blog-Tour-Banner" border="0" alt="Christmas-Time-Blog-Tour-Banner" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Aotq5Zhr-pQ/VkgQV0RJoxI/AAAAAAAAGBI/kkKbIsWo3_g/Christmas-Time-Blog-Tour-Banner%25255B5%25255D.png?imgmax=800" width="604" height="160" /> <p align="center"></p>  <strong>Comment on this post for a chance to win!</strong></a> <p>From the beginning, I’ve been looking for ways to make the Christmas season about Jesus for Esmé. The Jesse Tree, <em>Truth in the Tinsel, Why Do We Call It Christmas?, </em>Melk the Christmas Monkey – we’ve done them all, some several times. And I’ve always been on the lookout for books that tell the classic Nativity story in new and interesting ways.</p> <p>So I was pleased to find the book, <em>Christmas Time: It’s All About Jesus!</em> This cute, meaningful book is a great addition to a Jesus-focused Christmas collection.</p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VFm7Wd3OP78/VkgQWSbaQ5I/AAAAAAAAGBM/60ZPYJeoyv0/s1600-h/Christmas%252520Time%252520%252528Web%252520Front%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 6px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Christmas Time (Web Front)" border="0" alt="Christmas Time (Web Front)" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m4FADylwxDs/VkgQWxFQfHI/AAAAAAAAGBQ/jlS5Ruqlgc8/Christmas%252520Time%252520%252528Web%252520Front%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a>Since Christmas is such a captivating time of year, it’s the perfect setting for telling children about the miracle of the Lord Jesus Christ’s birth. Using selected passages from the first chapters of the gospels of Matthew and Luke, <em>Christmas Time – It’s All About Jesus</em> tells the story of Jesus’ birth in a delightfully poetic and child-like way. The sensational illustrations create an unforgettable image, so a child can always remember the true meaning of Christmas.</p> <p>As an added bonus, Pastor Russ and Sue have developed devotionals to be used by families to enrich their Christmas celebrations. These are complete with attributes and names of Jesus, questions for discussion, and activities to do as a family to share Christ with those around them. Coupled together, this story and devotionals will enhance your celebration of Christmas during the season and all year long!</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Author</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MhWhFhlkOXI/VkgQXakVp6I/AAAAAAAAGBU/2fe2qVP2ydI/s1600-h/Sue%252520Barksdale%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 6px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Sue Barksdale" border="0" alt="Sue Barksdale" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VhZuOlLxXzk/VkgQYQhvdqI/AAAAAAAAGBc/_rsHwf9mGN4/Sue%252520Barksdale_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="185" height="244" /></a>Sue Murray Barksdale has been a pastor’s wife, mom, and educator for over 30 years.  She and her husband Russ live in Arlington, Texas, where Russ pastors the multi-site The Church on Rush Creek, a multi-site church. Sue has a BS in Elementary Education from The University of Houston and enjoys teaching at a public charter school in their neighborhood.</p> <p>Russ and Sue consider their relationship with their grown children and spouses and their six beautiful grandchildren as one of the greatest blessings in life! Their desire to leave a legacy of Christ-centered lives motivated them to write this book for their own family and all the children in their sphere of influence. This is Sue’s second book, her first being <em><u>G.I.F.T.S.: A Prayer Book for Kids and Those Who Love Them</u></em>.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Genre:</strong>  Christian children’s book  <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Paperback, 28 pages <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$12.99, currently on Amazon for $11.69  <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <a href="http://goo.gl/sMk2MQ">http://goo.gl/sMk2MQ</a>  <br /><strong>For More Info:</strong> <a href="https://anekopress.com/christmas-time/">https://anekopress.com/christmas-time/</a> </p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <p><strong>Focus. </strong>It’s all about Jesus. The story, the devotions, the activities, all help point a child to Jesus at Christmastime.</p> <p><strong>Illustrations. </strong>The gender-neutral colorful illustrations are cute! Perfect for about the 3-6yo range. </p> <p><strong>The Writing. </strong>The story is the classic nativity one. You won’t find any surprises in it, but the poetry is easy and fun to read aloud. It’s great for the Dr. Seuss-age crowd.</p> <p><strong>The Devotions with Family Activities. </strong>These are my favorite part of the book – what makes it stand out from others. There are five – one topic for each letter of the word GLORY.There is a short devotion and prayer on the topic, followed by a typical Christmas activity that correlates with the devotion. It’s a great way to tie some of the fun things of Christmas to the center of it all – it’s all about Him!</p> <p><em>If you’re looking for a simple way to make Christ the center of your child’s Christmas, or would like to add a fun Nativity story to your Christmas collection, this book is for you.</em></p> <p><strong>Giveaway!</strong></p> <p>Yes, I can offer one blessed reader a copy of the <em>Christmas Time: It’s All About Jesus!</em> We’re going simple with giveaway entries here: <strong>just enter a comment of any kind on this post</strong>, along with your email address or other way for me to contact you. A winner will be randomly selected on <strong>November 21.</strong> You must have a US mailing address to win.</p> <p>--------------- <br /><i><font size="2"><strong>"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): </strong>Many thanks to Aneko Press for coordinating this book for review and providing the giveaway prize. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</font></i></p> <p><i></i></p> <p><i><strong>Don’t forget to leave a comment for your chance to win this giveaway!</strong></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-82767456221495598782015-11-10T06:33:00.001-08:002015-11-10T06:33:41.444-08:00Review: A Chameleon, a Boy, and a Quest<p><strong><em>Africa.</em></strong> <em>The sights:</em> children running, run-down buildings, animals, orderly plantations, wild jungle. <em>The smells:</em> Overwhelming florals, sweat mixed with fire, markets with overripe tomatoes and dried fish. <em>The sounds:</em> horns blaring, dogs barking, a language you don’t understand, laughter. The tastes: juicy mango, maize from a pot. <em>The feeling:</em> jarring roads, crowds, awe.</p> <p><strong><em>Water.</em></strong> A precious commodity transported on the heads, or in other creative ways, of many a child, many a woman. Not too many years ago, when Esmé was a baby, it was our privilege to experience Africa. To play a small supporting role in the creation of more water sources, wells, for various communities.</p> <p>So here’s a book that grabbed us from the first page…<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Q5NuKABlEsc/VkIANXMr_WI/AAAAAAAAGAw/Wj3DhP0rO5w/s1600-h/P1130641%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P1130641" border="0" alt="P1130641" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4oBgHwSWuco/VkIAPK1hoHI/AAAAAAAAGA0/vi_5fhaJueM/P1130641_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><img style="display: inline; float: right" alt="A Chameleon, a Boy, and a Quest" align="right" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Chameleon-Boy_PK.jpg" width="154" height="240" /><strong>A Boy Named Mu, an African Journey, and You</strong></p> <p>Mu, a ten-year-old orphan, has lived his entire life in the heart of Africa. For as long as he can remember he has served in the household of a great-uncle where he is unloved and ignored. In his drudgery-filled life, Mu has little hope of happiness, and little hope that anything will ever change.</p> <p>But one day, everything does change. On his way to draw water one morning, Mu is astonished when a chameleon greets him by name and announces that they will embark on a quest together. And what a quest it turns out to be! Mu faces danger and finds unexpected allies as they journey through a fascinating and ever-changing landscape.</p> <p><em>A Chameleon, a Boy, and a Quest</em> blends magical realism with a compelling story. The exciting story line combines an orphan's journey to find a home with the plight of child soldiers and the dangers of the Ebola virus and, along the way, highlights universal themes of integrity, loyalty, faith, and love. Written by long-time medical missionary J. A. Myrhe, the artful story is laced with subtle gospel themes and handles cross-cultural issues with grace and sensitivity. Kids will encounter good and evil and learn the truth about hope, happiness, and what it means to be human in this page-turning first book in a new series.</p> <p><strong>What you'll find in <em>A Chameleon, a Boy, and a Quest</em>:</strong></p> <ul> <li>A page-turning children's action and adventure story set in a fictional African land </li> <li>Blends magical realism and compelling storytelling with gospel themes to draw kids gently into the truth </li> <li>Deals with real-life but (seemingly) faraway themes like the plight of orphans, the duties of child soldiers, and the reality of the Ebola virus </li> <li>Written by a long-time medical missionary to Africa who handles cross-cultural issues with grace, sensitivity, and love</li> </ul> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Authors</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong>J. A. Myhre </strong>serves as a doctor with Serge in East Africa where she has worked for over two decades. She is passionate about health care for the poor, training local doctors and nurses, promoting childhood nutrition and development, and being the hands of Jesus in the hardest places. She is married to her best friend and colleague Scott, and together they have raised four children for whom many of her stories were written as Christmas presents.<strong> <br />Find Jennifer online: </strong><a href="http://paradoxuganda.blogspot.com/">website</a></p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Genre:</strong>  8-14 year olds, Christian adventure  <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Paperback, 128 pages  <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$15.99, currently $13.59 <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qhBAnnO5AZFdktV1bwpbv0I1q9Z6yZTZVRqqhDxFSqWVRcBMF7sOGtwO7TJzNJ6b2eKR04UQe-eiQbtCsSxFoR_CLtr9hJ5rgO9Le9X5aYBU8jQRh74nHMS6SbltJiS2YNS0c9EKrqhAi6UPFyHreSAjJVzuS3tDEmIugiRn4Y4=&c=o5QTeCNatwnT0axCZjLVNUeycMHwCtHJDsy847WsAIC_oV73NmIY3g==&ch=1PX_Yca4AlYOSZFpa7CnRrRGDwHlqCF6UPZBnl_6q-DAsUWQXCkj5A==">http://bit.ly/1NDAPy1</a> <br /><strong>For More Information:</strong> <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001qhBAnnO5AZFdktV1bwpbv0I1q9Z6yZTZVRqqhDxFSqWVRcBMF7sOGtwO7TJzNJ6bUtWChTazmkQ5pFRosU0EyjCLIKFuoRXAdiMTQyxTijLjj7F4NE3UVhP-A0YUpfDJMHvFRF1EfpWYbO5ec091vQsr3G06FoZ9U5Ej79w66JUCnCWVh6u3TglBEgLkc4dG&c=o5QTeCNatwnT0axCZjLVNUeycMHwCtHJDsy847WsAIC_oV73NmIY3g==&ch=1PX_Yca4AlYOSZFpa7CnRrRGDwHlqCF6UPZBnl_6q-DAsUWQXCkj5A==">http://litfusegroup.com/author/JAMyhre</a></p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <p><strong>Africa. </strong>This book had me at Africa. The chameleon (we had one in our yard), the jerry can of water, the poinsettia bush, the description of clothing, the outdoor school, the hospital wards, the jarring roads, the dog, the family relationships. I could just visualize it all. It’s fun to remind Esmé of her past there, to share the experience with her through the vividly described setting of this book.</p> <p><strong>The talking animals. </strong>Miss Esmé has been a fan of talking animals ever since I’ve been reading to her. A talking chameleon? Right up her ally. Great for imaginative kids.</p> <p><strong>The adventure. </strong>This is a fun read! There is mystery. Every chapter ends with a desire to find out what happens next. With lots of animal action as well, this is an adventure for both boys and girls.</p> <p><strong>The allegory. </strong>Betrayal. Courage. Redemption. You can find the story of Good and Evil subtly woven throughout this book.</p> <p>Overall, this is an exciting read-aloud (though of course your child may want to read on her own) adventure with great cultural and redemptive qualities. I highly recommend it.</p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for coordinating this book for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-64899150315841694582015-11-01T08:31:00.000-08:002015-11-01T08:31:00.218-08:00Melk the Christmas Monkey<p>So it’s November. That means we can start planning for Christmas, right?</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-vMpkc34e69k/VjXBwIVHumI/AAAAAAAAF3I/gpVmWjrzN5c/s1600-h/Melk%252520Collage%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Melk Collage" border="0" alt="Melk Collage" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CUta1esENpw/VjXBxOkEfHI/AAAAAAAAF3U/6038Iw2XtwU/Melk%252520Collage_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="504" height="504" /></a></p> <p>I asked Esmé if she wanted to have Melk come back this year, and she was adamant that he should, so Melk and I are planning some new (and repeating) adventures. <em>He’s got a surprise sidekick this year – a critter who will be focused on spreading the love to others…</em></p> <p>So who is Melk? <strong>Short for Melchior, Melk the Christmas Monkey is kind of like the Christian version of Elf on the Shelf. Each day of the Advent season, he’s got something new going on – always with a note that points his friend to Jesus.</strong> Some of you followed his adventures on Facebook last year, and I decided to put them all here in one place for handy dandy reference.</p> <p>First things first – credit where credit is due. The inspiration for Melk comes from Paradise Praises. <strong>If you want a nicely packaged ebook with Bible lessons & activities for 30 days, printable notes, supply lists, etc., here’s where to get it: </strong><a title="http://paradisepraises.com/melk/" href="http://paradisepraises.com/melk/"><strong>http://paradisepraises.com/melk/</strong></a><strong>.</strong> Many of Melk’s activity ideas came straight from this ebook.</p> <p>Our Melk took on a life (and voice) of his own – so consider this as a supplement to the original ebook. <font size="2">Because I don’t want to infringe on copyright, I’m summarizing our activities very briefly here without a lot of direction on printables and devotions. If you have questions on anything, feel free to comment or message me, and I’ll do my best to answer offline.</font></p> <p><em>To note:</em> There was no special order to Our Melk’s adventures. It really depended on what I had available at the time and how much time we could spend on activities. It bothers my OCD a bit that it wasn’t more sequential or organized, but the main thing was a focus on Jesus each day. And, on more than one occasion, it was amazing how things came together beautifully and more perfect than I could have possibly planned.</p> <p>So here we go:</p> <p><strong>Day 1: Introducing Melk</strong></p> <p>Melk made his debut by getting involved in a snowflake ballerina craft Esmé and I had already been working on. We had been waiting for the coffee filters to dry, but he couldn’t wait until morning so got right into making those snowflakes. Just his way of letting us know (along with his note) that he was taking over the season’s festivities.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l82X7kW0I-o/VjXBxwUYW-I/AAAAAAAAF3c/ARrEDu_dPwo/s1600-h/Day1%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day1" border="0" alt="Day1" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--lcJw2ktkc0/VjXBybeAeBI/AAAAAAAAF3g/OTiwrXVuT44/Day1_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p>Here is the finished result:</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZOyJDEOfxAw/VjXBzDgGZPI/AAAAAAAAF3s/A8PBWg12nQ0/s1600-h/Day1a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day1a" border="0" alt="Day1a" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-De8ddn4sdjY/VjXBzzKfxbI/AAAAAAAAF3w/X8pZVZTIxZU/Day1a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 2: Music (Isaiah 51:11)</strong></p> <p>Esmé’s favorite group, 1 Girl Nation, had just put out a Christmas CD. Melk got first listening rights to this gift… We pulled out all the other Christmas CDs, too.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fU6Pe1YtrCc/VjXB0uwyk_I/AAAAAAAAF38/6RbYLk8jiHI/s1600-h/Day2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day2" border="0" alt="Day2" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bric4qUjx8w/VjXB1BaDJDI/AAAAAAAAF4A/eL9j9L8GhN0/Day2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 3: Angels (Psalm 91:11)</strong></p> <p>Melk got himself into a glittery mess. Later on, Esmé was a bit more proficient with her angel.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-j0Un6KYB6Ac/VjXB19YVW7I/AAAAAAAAF4I/q6rQRPQZqeA/s1600-h/Day3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day3" border="0" alt="Day3" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8EAWX_vkEPw/VjXB2dOeOqI/AAAAAAAAF4Q/J2lDSzGMa1Q/Day3_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KIN91eS4Ygc/VjXB3A-TFNI/AAAAAAAAF4Y/RNCiNTKwWzs/s1600-h/Day3a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day3a" border="0" alt="Day3a" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-pBQr-GYPoUI/VjXB3q9Ce5I/AAAAAAAAF4k/UlA22BJzzJM/Day3a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 4 (December 1st): Advent Promise (James 5:8)</strong></p> <p>Melk started in on an Advent chain.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-burKjiz3fiM/VjXB4geUTlI/AAAAAAAAF4s/SuGLLWPd1Fg/s1600-h/Day4%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day4" border="0" alt="Day4" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DQlZ04SyR_Q/VjXB5JX-oLI/AAAAAAAAF4w/ntCANY4u-bc/Day4_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 5: Light (John 8:12)</strong></p> <p>Melk needed some help getting untangled so we could put the new lights in the windows. This was also the day that Esmé decided to become nocturnal so she could assist Melk with his adventures. Couldn’t get her to sleep for anything.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ouBITfQ6l1M/VjXB5598D9I/AAAAAAAAF44/xiw8T5O6zZk/s1600-h/Day5%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day5" border="0" alt="Day5" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--wkDpAP_I1I/VjXB6rBBu4I/AAAAAAAAF5E/BS0HiWvaFR0/Day5_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 6: Pleasure (Revelation 4:11)</strong></p> <p>Melk was all ready to enjoy a nice cup of hot cocoa, but first he was creating some “happy” artwork with his extra marshmallows.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PNdY-QGharQ/VjXB7ZA8f4I/AAAAAAAAF5M/LpWg_zu5gbg/s1600-h/Day6%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day6" border="0" alt="Day6" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XUYB7JaO9eU/VjXB73uddTI/AAAAAAAAF5Q/fUfpzbCCKJo/Day6_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 7: Star of Bethlehem (Matthew 2:2)</strong></p> <p>Melk was supposed to be making a star with beads, but he got beads confused with Froot Loops and decided it was snack time.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlWHx2SbDESv2UkJcadrJ-OafxaPT2oPe3ikrX46DKg8xqPw9XG98E9_rs2et9GcLQftMCnyvhnjvaH1RDQ4LY9dQLCZxbeCo-ZbHkaZH-qytb43RfAAbQqoEoXrclB6__AxFnWi6qEQ/s1600-h/Day7%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day7" border="0" alt="Day7" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uS4Bsx3CZ-4/VjXB9e1jQ_I/AAAAAAAAF5k/Jqg7aC5ic-E/Day7_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 8: The Nativity (Luke 2:10-12)</strong></p> <p>Melk started in on a sculpey clay nativity scene (using a new pack of clay).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tgsSQb2AGWE/VjXB-STK6NI/AAAAAAAAF5s/Z2MBpKjspYw/s1600-h/Day8s%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day8s" border="0" alt="Day8s" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VIUnQv7JYR4/VjXB_FKXhmI/AAAAAAAAF50/P5lqbdWc2Q8/Day8s_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p>Esmé helped him out and made a pretty awesome lamb!<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SlMK5wBaC6Y/VjXB_iAv0UI/AAAAAAAAF54/9RqB2OvSJPc/s1600-h/Day8a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day8a" border="0" alt="Day8a" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z-oQKolk_TY/VjXCA8WLHAI/AAAAAAAAF6E/QM0t3ROzK-A/Day8a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 9: Refiner’s Fire (Zechariah 13:9)</strong></p> <p>Never let a good flame go to waste! It’s marshmallow roasting time, which means, of course, s’mores.</p> <p>"There burns a fire with sacred heat <br />White hot with holy flame <br />And all who dare pass through its blaze <br />Will not emerge the same <br />Some as bronze, and some as silver <br />Some as gold, then with great skill <br />All are hammered by their sufferings <br />On the anvil of His will" <br />~Steve Green lyrics</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EMhYFXhTxaI/VjXCCDxEWGI/AAAAAAAAF6M/i_tHkXS-zvM/s1600-h/Day9%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day9" border="0" alt="Day9" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jNJRAcy1EFM/VjXCCxHZgeI/AAAAAAAAF6U/QVhA-4wUixI/Day9_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 10: The Bible Story (2 Timothy 3:16)</strong></p> <p>This was the day Melk pulled out all of our Christmas books for Esmé to enjoy the rest of the season.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0scS96H702Y/VjXCDrGfRmI/AAAAAAAAF6c/xNUSb_oCeTI/s1600-h/Day10%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day10" border="0" alt="Day10" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zNi1kg5GE2k/VjXCEXJgurI/AAAAAAAAF6g/CeSEAvIs-HQ/Day10_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 11: Gift of Sight (Matthew 12:22-23)</strong></p> <p>Melk rocked a pair of new sunglasses and checked out a spider in his new bug magnifying glass, while looking forward to using his gift of sight to watch all our Christmas movies.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Sw9fkwBKBYI/VjXCFIZrzWI/AAAAAAAAF6s/0LlFIqjBZSk/s1600-h/Day11%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day11" border="0" alt="Day11" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-r3NrJ9vpwSo/VjXCF_Ip-LI/AAAAAAAAF6w/L6s4Ov0G0_Q/Day11_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 12: Miracles (Luke 18:27)</strong></p> <p>Melk planted a candy cane “seed” in hopes of growing an award-winning candy cane – but paperwhites work much better.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RWOtzaT2Ooo/VjXCGWR9grI/AAAAAAAAF68/uJwzX2SoYKo/s1600-h/Day12%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day12" border="0" alt="Day12" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z8bTvrBrEoI/VjXCHTijPUI/AAAAAAAAF7E/Z1eRRxwwi4Q/Day12_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p>The paperwhites just happened to open their blooms on New Year’s Day.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-yRpl24UHfk0/VjXCID3aIPI/AAAAAAAAF7M/-B5h9mSAKF4/s1600-h/Day12a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day12a" border="0" alt="Day12a" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9E_QXI7jluE/VjXCI0eLNMI/AAAAAAAAF7U/23ki4ktKv_s/Day12a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 13: Gifts of Gold (Matthew 2:11)</strong></p> <p>Time for a gold color box!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JzhwAHD7tAE/VjXCJwk67WI/AAAAAAAAF7c/qbYaACTkYRg/s1600-h/Day13%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day13" border="0" alt="Day13" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gnrS7gYHGVo/VjXCKj8-LjI/AAAAAAAAF7g/6iHDIhWa_d8/Day13_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 14: Creator (2 Corinthians 5:17)</strong></p> <p>Melk celebrated being a unique creation by making his own unique creation – a gingerbread man craft.</p> <p>"Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You." ~Dr. Seuss</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EyAuVa5J-2Q/VjXCLNBcK8I/AAAAAAAAF7o/Wgcyw9hrDtE/s1600-h/Day14%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day14" border="0" alt="Day14" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MbCUAJ-s4Jg/VjXCLuGrc3I/AAAAAAAAF7w/-ZmjuVO5Eck/Day14_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 15: Sweetness (Psalm 34:8)</strong></p> <p>He got his hand stuck…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PjXReHqAFaw/VjXCMroSF9I/AAAAAAAAF78/WN9mqxhjFMo/s1600-h/Day15%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day15" border="0" alt="Day15" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Vmwm0mK16ak/VjXCNQ8gfAI/AAAAAAAAF8A/r6dSdzQuaVs/Day15_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 16: Merry Heart (Proverbs 17:22)</strong></p> <p>Melk had a bunch of photo props to try out for funny selfies. Though he looks rather distinguished in this one…</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-8S8Tr298_DA/VjXCN0kUZ0I/AAAAAAAAF8M/qHxym8QQxNI/s1600-h/Day16%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day16" border="0" alt="Day16" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7_UiNwGzs5w/VjXCOvWQtWI/AAAAAAAAF8U/RhuAY43u_c0/Day16_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 17: Healer (Isaiah 53:5)</strong></p> <p>A gift of a brand new first aid kit for budding medics in the house.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wG__IH5ZyA8/VjXCPaCUkFI/AAAAAAAAF8c/fOHRwMDxxRY/s1600-h/Day17%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day17" border="0" alt="Day17" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a1kYjij7R8E/VjXCQMhJp7I/AAAAAAAAF8g/sl0KUM36uSY/Day17_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 18: Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1-7)</strong></p> <p>So Melk scattered 50 or so printed Christmas jokes all throughout the house while shepherding his marshmallow sheep. Surely, Goodness, and Mercy tend to stick with him pretty well, but Seek is a different sort of sheep... We are still finding the jokes (and “rejoicing” every time).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HYbH0IQeGcw/VjXCRbqOzbI/AAAAAAAAF8s/3iJn56tUaLo/s1600-h/Day18%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day18" border="0" alt="Day18" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3l14UN2KUcQ/VjXCSMFiECI/AAAAAAAAF8w/zRMCs9S7B88/Day18_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 19: Clothing the Naked (Matthew 25:36)</strong></p> <p>It was all about things to wear. Melk was sporting the gift of a new pair of slippers while working on princess paper dolls.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zCIpTAxJhV0/VjXCSqCdxEI/AAAAAAAAF84/3wXDPEwB5Y0/s1600-h/Day19%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day19" border="0" alt="Day19" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-XrFsh6qmScQ/VjXCTKqG-7I/AAAAAAAAF9A/J-Xwvlm2h3I/Day19_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 20: Snow (and a Comforter) (Isaiah 1:18)</strong></p> <p>Since we didn’t have any real snow to play in, Melk got things ready for a Borax snowflake. Because the thought of snow makes him cold, he wrapped up in the gift of a new comfy blankie.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Hm5WlYNqJvY/VjXCT3efQ2I/AAAAAAAAF9M/Lq3jgMwAwOU/s1600-h/Day20%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day20" border="0" alt="Day20" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LLq7_ihAIgw/VjXCUkj5SaI/AAAAAAAAF9Q/iCd0Ztwhdfg/Day20_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nIgyueB-BNQ/VjXCVZZa2eI/AAAAAAAAF9c/uwgKf-RTrns/s1600-h/Day20a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day20a" border="0" alt="Day20a" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U0OPcYUBcdY/VjXCWhArpPI/AAAAAAAAF9k/b7laR8RPZEk/Day20a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 21: Fragrance (& Frankincense) (2 Corinthians 2:15)</strong></p> <p>So Melk wasn’t impressed with new girlie perfume, but he was happy to help make cinnamon ornaments.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eNMG0isrDrk/VjXCYKbkTLI/AAAAAAAAF9s/D3uPW3urziI/s1600-h/Day21%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day21" border="0" alt="Day21" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzRH2aAt2TCyF2_sete4bb_YSOpjYHPv6caKRGeR7b_pcIUqiFPs8X6YJMOD9Dy2ATPGokQb3umUweWISLSjvUY88PZ14nbPoz3DHCC5gpHaapKvb3qDIGNExlhtHqjC059_tUgEvW__w/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p>The finished fragrant cinnamon ornaments.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjITF7mxqJCJxs9-OH9_EMAzcKYUXb0wtXeDHDJ1FKlgMNAg43WzfOyODDEPUv8B2I7VC4R7JHr1uEaX4uAKz5AFB7R7wYQiS0egJScl9OFQNk8VCRZvqUoW5Mp4Vfy9sPWm4p2YKa6-Cs/s1600-h/Day21a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day21a" border="0" alt="Day21a" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Cazv5Oh1Ue8/VjXCar7DMcI/AAAAAAAAF-E/P5KTAiXT0HU/Day21a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 22: Foundation (Psalm 118:22)</strong></p> <p>Melk had the icing ready to go on a gingerbread house kit. I won’t say whether he ate any of the décor before Esmé to up.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1E2BeGgsO8Q/VjXCbL_QEwI/AAAAAAAAF-I/Tic0eeDonsg/s1600-h/Day22%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day22" border="0" alt="Day22" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RSEZkHlMRJw/VjXCbskf_jI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/VNtMFruNjWo/Day22_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p>Foundation or not, this house isn’t going to last long with these two around.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-MQpVn1cQz7E/VjXCcXuWqjI/AAAAAAAAF-c/MgWeK0dQD9w/s1600-h/Day22a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day22a" border="0" alt="Day22a" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SL2WCjdYhAo/VjXCdO8D4oI/AAAAAAAAF-k/5uVtIs1bBA0/Day22a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 23: Legend of the Candy Cane</strong></p> <p>Look at the Candy Cane <br />What do you see? <br />Stripes that are red <br />Like the blood shed for me <br />White is for my Savior <br />Who's sinless and pure! <br />"J" is for Jesus, <br />My Lord, that's for sure! <br />Turn it around <br />And a staff you will see <br />Jesus my Shepherd <br />Was born for me!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tb9-xOwMWjE/VjXCd5ETuxI/AAAAAAAAF-s/2Cu197aVQVw/s1600-h/Day23%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day23" border="0" alt="Day23" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JKcQzh3LyDY/VjXCet0deUI/AAAAAAAAF-w/qIRzObd2LFk/Day23_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p>Esmé helped Melk make a sweet wreath. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-xCozeA_bPxE/VjXCffcdumI/AAAAAAAAF-8/vqNDVcl3CDw/s1600-h/Day23a%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day23a" border="0" alt="Day23a" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hH6yNmBOhz0/VjXCgCFiNlI/AAAAAAAAF_E/brLVe4Ej2F8/Day23a_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 24: The WORD (John 1:1, 14)</strong></p> <p>A gift of fine new art pens, along with writing pages.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lTXGIcFjdMQ/VjXChJWn8XI/AAAAAAAAF_M/s8-G94tLq_s/s1600-h/Day24%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day24" border="0" alt="Day24" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cJ__TMtqwWg/VjXChn_najI/AAAAAAAAF_Q/or3b6mi5wR4/Day24_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 25: Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5)</strong></p> <p>Sonny the Lion helped Melk with this gift of the Chronicles of Narnia audiobooks, as well as a paper craft lion.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-2zdIZFsXhtY/VjXCiLhb3WI/AAAAAAAAF_Y/3nZkmfZvIbI/s1600-h/Day25%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day25" border="0" alt="Day25" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-dtR27xcUIBc/VjXCi0LfkuI/AAAAAAAAF_g/_1iH25DDYcg/Day25_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 26: Breakfast in Bethlehem</strong></p> <p>Melk made breakfast. We kept it simple because he doesn’t have opposable thumbs.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uBb2jR5_bPQ/VjXCjZWx3LI/AAAAAAAAF_s/enjLXCEgm2w/s1600-h/Day26%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day26" border="0" alt="Day26" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nvlk64hp8So/VjXCkfbhkLI/AAAAAAAAF_0/5mZKD7cDiMw/Day26_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 27: Love (1 Corinthians 13:1-8)</strong></p> <p>A “gifts for Jesus” box, a sapphire necklace, and a valentine’s note from Melk.</p> <p>What can I give him, poor as I am? <br />If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; <br />if I were a wise man, I would do my part. <br />Yet what I can I give him--give my heart.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-68_hy5fH7b4/VjXClO8QYmI/AAAAAAAAF_8/rWuXuJruhKk/s1600-h/Day27%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day27" border="0" alt="Day27" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3TFsirLzDr0/VjXCl36Zh7I/AAAAAAAAGAE/v00_AXJv_hE/Day27_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> <p><strong>Day 28 (December 25): Happy Birthday!</strong></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-93XfeaOzyuc/VjXCmQn6eAI/AAAAAAAAGAQ/TSiVCxjeTHk/s1600-h/Day28%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Day28" border="0" alt="Day28" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-60_ibHhRzDs/VjXCnMnx6DI/AAAAAAAAGAY/yYgihQgj-s8/Day28_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="404" /></a></p> Happy Birthday, Jesus, <br />I'm so glad it's Christmas. <br />All the carols and bells make <br />The holidays swell <br />And it's all about You. <p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia6eMEHvDgxoA5bIDJ5PWEeeHNpPX9CG9drM-FcLXp-Mzkb80bzwOSe7IvksU-cSDlC_9aQyDKe0EkchjIW03dqVG_jD9cv9hT0Y1318WTBOSWw74kXx3YP3k3cOZVhJf3Z5N7y0H8YSM/s1600/Happy+Birthday+Jesus.jpg" width="300" height="400" /></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-51015224240502281942015-10-30T19:59:00.001-07:002015-10-30T19:59:39.165-07:00Review/Giveaway: NIV Bible for Teen Girls: Growing in Faith.Hope.Love<p align="center"><strong>Comment on this post for a chance to win!</strong></p> <p>I was recently leading out in 8yo Miss Esmé’s class at church. After a game of fruit basket upset, the topic of discussion: <em>how leaving your Bible on your bedstand doesn’t help you, just like a bowl of fruit on the counter doesn’t help you. You have to eat it, get it inside of you regularly, to get the benefit.</em></p> <p>So I showed the kids copies of various Bibles we’ve used over the years. Picture Bible. Toddler Bible. Preschool Bible. Early Reader Bible. We’ve graduated to a full-text Bible with pictures.</p> <p><strong>Every age – every stage – so different.</strong> While the truths remain the same, the needs are different. How can I encourage my daughter to keep internalizing these truths at each stage? To realize how they apply to her life right here and now?</p> <p>I know this: <strong>at each stage, I want something in her hand that she can personalize and make her own; something that compels her to pick it up each day.</strong> <em>And I’ve found the perfect option for her teen years. </em></p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXjIMVlyHipNFHUxlb5QgwtszLQB4DqC4LYKduhTO7nV7VAr3wsifPqw_iV3UkspQWZirnsIXIbilA60jb7LRd5gF0womv0m9JIkakLHsYYolCZtEXdBYkDy9MO1s8uGgQMytFDz6y5g/s1600-h/Teen%252520Bible%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Teen Bible" border="0" alt="Teen Bible" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JJ4KF9EfHeU/VjQumP3-zwI/AAAAAAAAF20/S8BNMxRj47M/Teen%252520Bible_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a></p> <p>The <u>NIV Bible for Teen Girls</u>, designed specifically for girls ages 13 to 18, is for real teenage girls with real lives. Packed with daily readings, highlighted promises of God, challenging insights, smart advice, and open discussion about the realities of life, this Bible is designed to help teen girls grow in faith, hope, and love. The NIV Bible for Teen Girls is as sincere about your walk with God as you are, helping you discover his will for all areas of your life, including relating to your family, dealing with friends, work, sports, guys, and so much more.</p> <p>Features include:</p> <ul> <li>Daily readings for teen girls by popular Christian female authors (Annie Downs, Bekah Hamrick Martin, Christine Caine, Crystal Kirgiss, Bethany Hamilton, Nicole Weider, Elsa Kok Colopy, Denise Van Eck and more) </li> <li>Character profiles of women in the Bible </li> <li>Book introductions for each book of the Bible </li> <li>Highlighted promises of God: verses worth remembering </li> <li>A concordance for help in finding verses </li> <li>The complete text of the bestselling New International Version (NIV) of the Bible </li> </ul> </blockquote> <p><strong>Genre:</strong>  Christian teen <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Hardcover, 1728  <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$29.99 <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <a title="http://www.zondervan.com/niv-bible-for-teen-girls-2" href="http://www.zondervan.com/niv-bible-for-teen-girls-2">http://www.zondervan.com/niv-bible-for-teen-girls-2</a> <br /><strong>Facebook:</strong> <a title="https://www.facebook.com/Zondervan" href="https://www.facebook.com/Zondervan">https://www.facebook.com/Zondervan</a> <br /><strong>Twitter:</strong> <a title="https://twitter.com/Zondervan" href="https://twitter.com/Zondervan">https://twitter.com/Zondervan</a></p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <p><strong>Appearance. </strong>This is the first thing we looked at. Esmé’s been a bit critical of appearance on other Bibles in the past; they look boring or masculine. Right away we both fell in love with this one. It is feminine without being too little girly. A teal and pink cover, with pink highlights and headings throughout the text, the graphic design gives it an “older girl” feel.</p> <p>It also feels “practical.” The type of thing one could throw in a backpack or overnight bag without stressing about damaging the pages. Something to personalize with highlighters and notes on the devotionals. It’s not an heirloom Bible, but rather meant for a very specific timespan.</p> <p><strong>Daily Readings. </strong>I want a Bible that compels my daughter to pick it up each day. The daily readings are interspersed at appropriate locations throughout the Bible, so even if the reading was her main focus for picking it up in the morning, she is instantly immersed in all the surrounding text.</p> <p>The readings are written by Christian female authors and address different topics teens might be dealing with, all in context of a nearby Bible passage. I shared some of these with Esmé for purposes of the review, but she was adamant that this would be a Bible for her to receive on her 12th birthday, and based on the topics, I agree that would be about the right age for her to start.</p> <p><strong>Topical Index. </strong>The index of daily reading topics is one of my favorite features. You can look up a topic like “Fashion,” or “Fakers” or “God’s Call,” or “Dieting,” and go straight to a daily reading with applicable Bible passage. I envision using this myself if I get pulled into teen drama…</p> <p><strong>Women of the Bible. </strong>Another favorite feature is the character profile of women at various points in the Bible. The author does a good job of describing the women, providing Bible passages for further reading, and, my favorite part, sharing lessons from their lives that are applicable to women (including teens) today.</p> <p><strong>Book Summaries. </strong>Each book of the Bible begins with an approximate date of book, list of characters, familiar verse, and summary. I like how the summary ties the old to the modern, for instance, in the summary of Galatians: “Like using ‘ALL CAPS’ to make a point, Paul even took the pen from his scribe and wrote the end of the letter himself in large letters.”</p> <p><strong>Version. </strong>This is the popular New International Version that I personally grew up with. It has its critics and deserved critiques, but as a whole I found it highly readable and beneficial.</p> <p><strong>Concordance. </strong>It has an NIV concordance in the back, and I think this is one of the most important features of a practical Bible. If you’re taking it with you to studies or just wanting to remember where a favorite passage was found, this tool is invaluable.</p> <p><strong>Highlighted Texts. </strong>It’s like a friend has personalized the Bible to grab the reader’s attention to God’s promises throughout.</p> <p><em>I’m excited about having this resource for Esmé to use in her teen years, and I pray it will change her life as she internalizes His Word.</em></p> <p><strong>Giveaway!</strong></p> <p>Yes, I can offer one blessed reader a copy of the <em>NIV Bible for Teen Girls: Growing in Faith.Hope.Love!</em> We’re going simple with giveaway entries here: <strong>just enter a comment of any kind on this post</strong>, along with your email address or other way for me to contact you. A winner will be randomly selected on <strong>November 6.</strong> You must have a US or Canada mailing address to win.</p> <p><em>Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.</em></p> <p>--------------- <br /><i><font size="2"><strong>"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): </strong>Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for coordinating this book for review and providing the giveaway prize. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</font></i></p> <p><i></i></p> <p><i><strong>Don’t forget to leave a comment for your chance to win this giveaway!</strong></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-21094269751214667822015-10-16T23:40:00.001-07:002015-10-16T23:40:32.262-07:00Review: Pass It On<p>When I was pregnant with Miss Esmé, I got all the books. <em>What to Expect When You’re Expecting. </em>I had books on baby stages, toddler stages, preschooler stages. This was my first, and I wanted to know everything ahead of time – <em><strong>to have a game plan for all the upcoming occurrences and to know what to do to navigate and facilitate the growth transitions as smoothly as possible.</strong></em></p> <p>Now she is eight, and I’ve (sort of) learned to adapt to the way she constantly surprises me by going off script. But I can’t imagine going through those early years without that constant reassurance of knowing, month by month, we were (sort of) on track. <em>Physically. Mentally.</em></p> <p><em><strong>But what about spiritually? Are we on track spiritually? And isn’t that the most important thing?</strong></em></p> <p><em>I never thought about a parenting book to monitor those transitions of spiritual growth. Until now.</em></p> <p><em><strong>Pass It On</strong> </em>is a great resource for not only preparing for spiritual growth transitions of your child, but also for steering and celebrating those steps.</p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oEFeUAJfPgw/ViHtVrUAFlI/AAAAAAAAF2U/4WfKE4IGPuY/s1600-h/Pass%252520It%252520On%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pass It On" border="0" alt="Pass It On" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jmWrPYOTqC0/ViHtXQHr7_I/AAAAAAAAF2c/WniiGUgN3Tw/Pass%252520It%252520On_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a></strong></p> <p><strong>Parents often experience a “freak out” moment when they realize their children’s view of God will primarily come from what they learn at home.</strong></p> <p>Most parents spend more time helping their kids succeed at academics or athletics than infusing shared spiritual experiences into the rhythm of everyday family life.</p> <p>While the idea of strategically passing down our faith can seem intimidating, the annual Rites of Passage Experiences contained in <em>Pass It On</em> make it easy for your family to celebrate milestones from kindergarten through high school graduation. Forever change the direction of your family’s spiritual legacy . . . starting now!</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Authors</strong></p> <blockquote> <p>Jim Burns is president of HomeWord and executive director of the HomeWord Center for Youth and Family at Azusa Pacific University. He has more than 1.5 million resources in print and a radio broadcast heard on 800 stations a day. Jim resides in Southern California with his wife Cathy and their three daughters.</p> <p><strong>Connect with Jim online</strong>: <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Vdg7w7IsTIgfbRaAiBiVPivMyLSr0FLZvyRpSvAu_hfQMgrpQznbumMCx7Q1uW1Y2NfTfRH6iy4Y9Pq4DjnXNsAKUCPMh0mBO78XyJl_rJs0xbeOmZsLS0dMUv6uNjvC7H2TtT4KBwr8qQNb0nhlOExdqm5Rzi09CfXtnpqMVLs=&c=h7UjHH7dj9MNrovUUlIPnmaKt-n3c4S_CG4uFW8TnSENZquMceIutw==&ch=e1BXR13goe9DHQtfo_F0KUpdbq2GwBJ00KMypKBfeHEWr_S_oNUZZg==">website</a>, <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Vdg7w7IsTIgfbRaAiBiVPivMyLSr0FLZvyRpSvAu_hfQMgrpQznbuvm4FzJ8qnc2pW2pzyhimPrTKePE3vIZY5thaoDAcpm_E9NUvbq_ZKPrVgCEN2won2bdHx1hnFy9n9Lw3s1VtZ9IOaDM5deyBEDVrWOnjnimQmjwix7e4iR8Bx0H900eyg==&c=h7UjHH7dj9MNrovUUlIPnmaKt-n3c4S_CG4uFW8TnSENZquMceIutw==&ch=e1BXR13goe9DHQtfo_F0KUpdbq2GwBJ00KMypKBfeHEWr_S_oNUZZg==">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Vdg7w7IsTIgfbRaAiBiVPivMyLSr0FLZvyRpSvAu_hfQMgrpQznbuvm4FzJ8qnc2-tvTmx9qzomXMN9qyASkkQdf9bZtBjf-o0pOC_e2txdZNQD6oLl9x3ioriVjqmGQBcJ_EZFoMkK7xhK_5D7TYS30qnNWcC2VePRI5gEOcP1ibnpBrxXNQg==&c=h7UjHH7dj9MNrovUUlIPnmaKt-n3c4S_CG4uFW8TnSENZquMceIutw==&ch=e1BXR13goe9DHQtfo_F0KUpdbq2GwBJ00KMypKBfeHEWr_S_oNUZZg==">Facebook</a></p> <p>Jeremy Lee is the founder of ParentMinistry.Net, a subscription-based service for children and youth ministry workers. He was on the writing team for the Simple Truth Bible from Group Publishing and the Ignite Study Bible from Thomas Nelson Publishers. Jeremy lives in Nashville with his wife and children.</p> <p><strong>Connect with Jeremy online: </strong><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Vdg7w7IsTIgfbRaAiBiVPivMyLSr0FLZvyRpSvAu_hfQMgrpQznbumMCx7Q1uW1YVp29qmNLDgrwkuHmpuQl8OL9vgeCZSrnGRZQiz-KOaIJIFNKv8u2nXhanL6kPDnFD2E-ZSZYW5UevBySiq5fXGQ31C3P5xUzrYDoo60_UwI=&c=h7UjHH7dj9MNrovUUlIPnmaKt-n3c4S_CG4uFW8TnSENZquMceIutw==&ch=e1BXR13goe9DHQtfo_F0KUpdbq2GwBJ00KMypKBfeHEWr_S_oNUZZg==">website</a><strong>, </strong><a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Vdg7w7IsTIgfbRaAiBiVPivMyLSr0FLZvyRpSvAu_hfQMgrpQznbumMCx7Q1uW1YZwRf3zZ8nQNcacJlUC5cAdrmoUx0cWKgF0q11bYyornF6ZMQXpjxdv1f5mnbwuLgkXZgVZ112tpeUnNzVbsCFiIIYk9em50eg2MdZprjGdxlY9VwjZxE8g==&c=h7UjHH7dj9MNrovUUlIPnmaKt-n3c4S_CG4uFW8TnSENZquMceIutw==&ch=e1BXR13goe9DHQtfo_F0KUpdbq2GwBJ00KMypKBfeHEWr_S_oNUZZg==">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Vdg7w7IsTIgfbRaAiBiVPivMyLSr0FLZvyRpSvAu_hfQMgrpQznbumMCx7Q1uW1YI2yYuYGcCkfQ9CFagF4Xvj11qVh1oeqjZANkGWhZYHaNJl77-3k-rCY_0hH6QGJTPM3iIfeJ2yX_K8wFZR58z7gmC9bRR38fU6q4iLriQxSigy-Pd68wb8sNHpU2f3Bk&c=h7UjHH7dj9MNrovUUlIPnmaKt-n3c4S_CG4uFW8TnSENZquMceIutw==&ch=e1BXR13goe9DHQtfo_F0KUpdbq2GwBJ00KMypKBfeHEWr_S_oNUZZg==">Facebook</a></p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Genre:</strong>  Christian parenting  <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Paperback, 256 pages  <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$15.99 <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Vdg7w7IsTIgfbRaAiBiVPivMyLSr0FLZvyRpSvAu_hfQMgrpQznbuuyqPRG17KvMzCICi1RHqB6U_--az8rUISoeV9JwJ_hRhPlYl5iGZlC6Hsv6vboPWXxdVDU3tE0erR9MRTLsPE4q5emiEpL6KBUUyUQTnjlERLOnV9iNa10=&c=h7UjHH7dj9MNrovUUlIPnmaKt-n3c4S_CG4uFW8TnSENZquMceIutw==&ch=e1BXR13goe9DHQtfo_F0KUpdbq2GwBJ00KMypKBfeHEWr_S_oNUZZg==">http://bit.ly/1jCKyrU</a> <br /><strong>For More Information:</strong> <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001Vdg7w7IsTIgfbRaAiBiVPivMyLSr0FLZvyRpSvAu_hfQMgrpQznbuuyqPRG17KvMffaOBFM2BCrmPtdZPRSWaM7q6_1Wbv_cJ-BCGi68AUnZPK0sgd6jEX5FMNvC-9DwJprldn336W4hmk3Ax63QtYxul2E_XYOKbfrEhtbRZ1sYj1pRy7yFDkm9J9cvhcjd&c=h7UjHH7dj9MNrovUUlIPnmaKt-n3c4S_CG4uFW8TnSENZquMceIutw==&ch=e1BXR13goe9DHQtfo_F0KUpdbq2GwBJ00KMypKBfeHEWr_S_oNUZZg==">http://litfusegroup.com/author/BurnsLee</a></p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <p>The book starts with an explanation of why parents should pass on a Christian legacy, and how “rites of passage” are a great way to intentionally pass this on. It is then broken up into years – a chapter for each year from Kindergarten through 12th grade.</p> <p>The first thing that grabbed my attention – though it was at the end of each chapter – was the section describing typical characteristics of each year – physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual. For someone like me who wants to be (as) prepared (as possible) for each stage, this is perfect.</p> <p>The primary focus of each chapter is the Rite of Passage that includes a ceremony and a symbol. Something that can be as simple or complex as you choose to make it – that supports your child’s spiritual growth with intentionality – in a memorable way. There is a lot of room for flexibility, but also tools, such as sample letters and conversation starters, as well as a section called Laying the Foundation of Faith that helps you stay focused on what’s important.</p> <p>I was wishing I’d found this book sooner – at the Kindergarten level – because that first Rite of Passage – an invitation to generosity through a family service project – is one that my 8yo could really use right now. But this book is flexible enough to adapt; we’re just going to start right now with that first Rite of Passage and just squeeze them in a little closer together until we’re caught up.</p> <p>I’m excited about the years ahead, and I’m thrilled to have this roadmap of sorts to keep us on the right track with the milestones to come.</p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Litfuse Publicity Group for coordinating this book for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-91660623780981309012015-10-01T07:24:00.001-07:002015-10-01T07:26:23.774-07:00Review: My God and My All<p><em>Saint.</em></p> <p>As a Protestant, I’ve been a little leery of the word.</p> <p>As a child, I never learned much about the “saints.” I did hear of Saint Francis of Assisi, particularly in reference to quotes such as his peace prayer:</p> <blockquote> <p>Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace; <br />Where there is hatred, let me sow love; <br />Where there is injury, pardon; <br />Where there is error, the truth; <br />Where there is doubt, the faith; <br />Where there is despair, hope; <br />Where there is darkness, light; <br />And where there is sadness, joy.</p> </blockquote> <p>So I found it interesting, and all brand new, to hear about Saint Francis’ life in my 8yo daughter’s history curriculum. I could easily see him as a saint in the biblical sense of the word. And I was ready to take on a more in-depth look into his life with this book.</p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ychDTvui60s/Vg1Ci_p9sKI/AAAAAAAAF1s/zdTvE30Eq7w/s1600-h/mygodandmyallEN%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="mygodandmyallEN" border="0" alt="mygodandmyallEN" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SFyLCzBZUsQ/Vg1CjTw0-II/AAAAAAAAF10/igQx0LbYkng/mygodandmyallEN_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="169" height="244" /></a>Perhaps more than any other figure</strong> in Christian history, Saint Francis of Assisi has captured our imagination, for his is a story of extreme self-sacrifice, of love to God and man. How could this wealthy, handsome youth cast away all the advantages that were his by birth and choose instead a career of poverty and humility? How could he attract members of all strata of society to his mission? And how, when his order became established throughout Europe, could he renounce great personal power and humbly continue his life’s work?</p> <p>Here is Francis, from his twelfth-century boyhood to his life as a missionary roaming the very boundaries of the known world. Here too are the men and women who followed him – Bernard de Quintavalle, the rich businessman; Peter Cathanii, the lawyer; Brother Giles, the farmer’s son; Lady Clare; and so many others – all drawn together by the personal magnetism and humble faith of their leader, all re-created by bestselling novelist Elizabeth Goudge against a rich medieval canvas.</p> <p>Of Saint Francis, Goudge writes: <br />It is as a Christian that he matters to us, as a humble, poor man who set himself to tread as closely as he could in the footsteps of Christ, perhaps as closely as any man has ever done, and by so doing he shames us. Looking at him we see what it means to be a Christian and what it costs. His story is not only endearing, it is terrifying. Yet without the fear and shame he would not have so much power over us, for we know in our hearts that what is worth having costs everything. And so his power lives on and we cannot measure it because it is nowhere near its end.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Author</strong></p> <blockquote> <p>Elizabeth de Beauchamp Goudge (1900–1984) was one of the most popular British novelists of the twentieth century. She had two #1 <em>New York Times</em> bestsellers: <em>Green Dolphin Street</em> (1944) and <em>Pilgrim’s Inn</em> (1948); the first was made into an Academy Award–winning film.</p> <p>Goudge also wrote many acclaimed children’s books. <em>The Little White Horse</em>, which<em>Harry Potter</em> author J. K. Rowling has said was her favorite book as a child, won the 1946 Carnegie Medal as the most outstanding British children’s book of the year.</p> <p>Elizabeth Goudge’s Christian spirituality pervades all her work, but nowhere as explicitly as in her books <em>God So Loved the World: The Story of Jesus Christ</em> and <a href="http://www.plough.com/en/topics/faith/spiritual-classics/my-god-and-my-all"><em>My God and My All: The Life of Saint Francis of Assisi</em></a><em>. </em>The <em>New York Times </em>wrote of her work, “Elizabeth Goudge’s novels, long or short, have always been distinguished by a quality of lyrical joyousness more usually associated with poetry than with prose and, perhaps, with music than with writing.”</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Genre:</strong>  Christian classic  <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Paperback, 310 pages, 5.5”x8”  <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$16.00 paperback; $10 Kindle (currently $12.69/$8.49 on Amazon) <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <a title="http://www.amazon.com/My-God-All-Francis-Assisi/dp/0874866782/" href="http://www.amazon.com/My-God-All-Francis-Assisi/dp/0874866782/">http://www.amazon.com/My-God-All-Francis-Assisi/dp/0874866782/</a> <br /><strong>For More Information:</strong> <a title="http://www.plough.com/en/topics/faith/spiritual-classics/my-god-and-my-all" href="http://www.plough.com/en/topics/faith/spiritual-classics/my-god-and-my-all">http://www.plough.com/en/topics/faith/spiritual-classics/my-god-and-my-all</a></p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <p>This is not a quick read. With 310 pages of small print, it can feel a bit overwhelming at first. For someone who does a lot of skim reading, this was a struggle to begin reading. There is little dialogue. I got lost and had to backtrack and re-read over and over, since every word had its place in setting the context and moving the story along. </p> <p>So I started reading it aloud to my 8yo, and the words just flowed, almost like poetic prose. She didn’t stick around long, to be honest, but oral reading made me start to fall in love with the writing style.</p> <p>Wow. What a story. Anecdote after anecdote, each one as inspiring as the last. Like the one about his “son” Ruffino, who struggled with public speech. After refusing a command to preach at Assisi, Francis, in a temper, ordered Ruffino to go speak without his clothing. And he did, much to the mirth of the townsmen. Francis, feeling remorse, listened patiently to Ruffino stumble through his sermon. And then, taking off his own clothing, he joined Ruffino at the pulpit, quieting the crowd’s laughter with a sermon on Christ’s poverty and nakedness.</p> <p>The author gives an underlying desperation to Francis’ story – a fear and determination not be be lost. However, the overwhelming joy, of the privilege of taking up the cross with Christ, is by far the dominant theme of his life. I love that blend of humility and joy – and the story makes me want to model that!</p> <p>Francis’ story of humility and service is set in the historical context of a gluttonous church – full of power and wealth – and the details of history the author gives makes the story that much more meaningful. It is clear in my mind that, in spite of the flaws Francis was quick to admit to, God used him in a miraculous way to shift the course of Christianity upward from its downward spiral. </p> <p>If you’re a history lover, if you want a story that will inspire you to greater faith, this book is for you.</p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Handlebar Central for coordinating this book for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-80107662715312602662015-09-30T06:05:00.001-07:002015-09-30T06:05:40.945-07:00Review: The Prince Who Was Just Himself<p><em>Fist bumps. High fives. Handshakes.</em></p> <p><em>Doors held open for me.</em></p> <p><em>Comments on what I’m wearing. </em></p> <p><em>Talk about the weather.</em></p> <p><em>Uncontrollable giggles.</em></p> <p><em>Undeterred focus on a task.</em></p> <p><em>Impromptu concerts with guitar and keyboard.</em></p> <p><em>Costumes worn every day throughout the month of October.</em></p> <p><em>Showing off Special Olympics medals.</em></p> <p>I work with people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. It has got to be one of the most inspiring, friendliest fields of work available. I seem to have a smile on my face a lot – when I’m not holed up in my office tracking pennies…</p> <p><em>So along comes Miss Esmé. “What’s wrong with these people?” she asks, not as quietly as I’d  wish. “Why are they so different?”  </em></p> <p><em>I tell her how one lady brought her some favorite stuffed animals shortly after she was born, and every time I see her, she asks, “How’s Es-a-mé? She’s growing up, huh?” </em></p> <p>I give Esmé the Wikipedia version of what I/DD is, what Down syndrome is. But it doesn’t paint the full picture, in her mind, of why I’m inspired every day at work.</p> <p>So along comes this sweet book – perfect for all royalty-loving kids – that explains not only what is different, but what is right.</p> <p><em><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7usJEOmh8cQ/VgveHx9kmhI/AAAAAAAAF1U/wlrmDhRzR30/s1600-h/Prince%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Prince" border="0" alt="Prince" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9sFdJBieVUI/VgveIt-1r_I/AAAAAAAAF1c/rTx6kamd1lA/Prince_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></em></p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><img style="display: inline; float: right" alt="Cover thumbnail of the book, The Prince Who Was Just Himself." align="right" src="http://www.plough.com/~/media/images/plough/covers/prince.jpg?mw=300&mh=400&itemprop=image" width="207" height="310" /><strong>The royal couple</strong> is looking forward to their third child. “He looks a little different,” muses the king at Prince Noah’s arrival. “He is not like the others,” agrees the queen. Soon they notice what a very special person he is, even though he can’t do everything his brothers can.</p> <p>When the youngest prince disarms the cruel knight Scarface, the nation’s most dreaded enemy, with an act of compassion, everyone finally realizes how good it is that each person is unique.</p> <p>This delightfully illustrated fairy tale for children three years and older instills appreciation for children with Down syndrome and other developmental challenges, making it a valuable aid for teaching tolerance in the home or classroom.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Author</strong></p> <blockquote> <p>Silke Schnee is a journalist and works as a television producer for a public broadcaster in Cologne, Germany. She is married and has three sons. Her youngest son Noah was born in July 2008 with Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). She writes: “At first when Noah was born, we were shocked and sad. The catalyst for this book was witnessing the effect he had on many people, despite being categorized as disabled. In fact, our little prince brings much love, joy, and sunshine not only to us, but to all around him. Children are a wonder, and we must see them with the eyes of our heart: each child just the way he or she is.”</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Age Recommendation:</strong> 3-9yo <br /><strong>Genre:</strong>  Children’s book  <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Hardcover, 32 pages, 8.5”x11”  <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$16.00 (currently $14.25 on Amazon) <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <a title="http://www.amazon.com/The-Prince-Who-Just-Himself/dp/0874866820" href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Prince-Who-Just-Himself/dp/0874866820">http://www.amazon.com/The-Prince-Who-Just-Himself/dp/0874866820</a> <br /><strong>For More Information:</strong> <a title="http://www.plough.com/en/topics/community/education/prince-who-was-just-himself" href="http://www.plough.com/en/topics/community/education/prince-who-was-just-himself">http://www.plough.com/en/topics/community/education/prince-who-was-just-himself</a></p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <ul> <li><strong>The Topic. </strong>With 1 in 691 babies in the US being born with Down syndrome, chances are pretty good that your child will know someone who has it. This book is the perfect launching spot for a discussion on what it is, how we are more alike than different, and how we can appreciate the differences.</li> <li><strong>The Storyline.</strong> This fairytale storyline is perfect for grabbing kids’ attention! It’s got the royalty appeal for kids like Esmé. It’s got the adventure appeal with an impending battle. It brings up the differences in a way kids can relate to – after all, it’s important for all of us to be ourselves, and we are all unique. And the boy with Down syndrome becomes the hero because of, not in spite of, his differences.</li> <li><strong>The Illustrations. </strong>Sweet, whimsical, gender-neutral illustrations add to the appeal of the book.<img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/A1h3mV2SigL.jpg" width="309" height="400" /></li> <li><strong>The Personal Story. </strong>The author was inspired by her own family in writing this story. She has a son named Noah with Down syndrome, and it was observing his impact on others that led to this book. Her familiarity and appreciation of her son is evident in this book.</li> <li><strong>The Details at the End of the Book. </strong>For the kid who wants to know more specifics, there is a “What is Down syndrome” section at the back of the book.</li> </ul> <p>I highly recommend this book! For parents, libraries, doctors’ offices, schools – this story is the perfect segue into acknowledging, understanding, and appreciating each others’ differences.</p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Handlebar Central for coordinating this book for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-53173268462716126572015-09-13T23:40:00.001-07:002015-09-13T23:40:04.898-07:00Review/Giveaway: The Biggest Story<p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1jfTZc-zAy0/VfZrpU5GFxI/AAAAAAAAFzw/XeEC3KTmwk0/s1600-h/Eve%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Eve" border="0" alt="Eve" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-01sYwkIZC1c/VfZrpwq1mHI/AAAAAAAAFz4/uZZn8x41oI0/Eve_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244" /></a>Esmé has grown up on Bible stories. When she was a bitty 3yo, she grasped tenaciously onto the story of the snake, acting the scene of the Fall out over and over again.</p> <p>Concerned, I sat her down for a chat. What was her fascination with this serpent?</p> <p><b>“Mommy, the serpent can really talk!”</b> she exclaimed.</p> <p>Of course, I thought.  My daughter has ALWAYS loved stories where the animals can “really talk.”  I generally explain that it’s just pretend, but for once, here is a story that’s NOT pretend, and the animal can indeed really talk.</p> <p>Boy, can that snake talk. He’s distracting us, then reminding us of our failures, again and again.</p> <p>But. Shining through the cacophony, there is the constant WORD – Logos – the ultimate communicator - the One who spoke and it was so. The Snake Crusher.</p> <p><em>“In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with God, and the WORD was God.”</em></p> <p><em>“The WORD became flesh and made His dwelling among us.”</em></p> <p><b>And the WORD, bruised for our failures, crushed that talking snake’s head.</b></p> <p>All those colorful Bible stories – Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, the manger – they’re nice all on their own. Great for a bedtime story or a quick overview on a Sunday morning. But their power comes in their entirety. How do all these stories fit together into a vivid portrayal of the Snake Crusher and a return to the Garden?</p> <p>Can a little kid understand <em>The Biggest Story?</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-05paXwQXBdI/VfZrq5tFU_I/AAAAAAAAF0A/uAZpaX-fcRw/s1600-h/Biggest%252520Story%252520Esme%252520Cover%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Biggest Story Esme Cover" border="0" alt="Biggest Story Esme Cover" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6uBlw9_yKrBJXVgnCVT9Ql1F1pH_6amL8i46Gp21plOwR_nyBGCHgRkuMPF9S7uABdLGBg26o7fh2Jw73XxJcm55t-AoaHTY4-0UXTYih9elUOgGxOEkVq00DkUaxddrj7mAKFnl8dkU/?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p>Absolutely.<em> </em></p> <p>Enter <em>The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Garden.</em></p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NTNFCBMQ8kc/VfZrsvV959I/AAAAAAAAF0Q/N6BPOsTORig/s1600-h/Biggest%252520Story%252520Cover%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 2px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="标准5 Model (1)" border="0" alt="标准5 Model (1)" align="right" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uzfkZ8nTUz0/VfZrtBatjJI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/mI08WBU1s_w/Biggest%252520Story%252520Cover_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="191" height="244" /></a></p> <p><em>Once upon a time there lived a man and a woman. They were the happiest people on the planet.</em></p> <p><em>True, they were the only people on the planet, but they were still terrifically happy.</em></p> <p><em>Unfortunately, things didn’t stay happy and wonderful for long . . .</em></p> <p>The Bible is full of exciting stories that fill children with awe and wonder. But kids need to know how all those classic stories connect to Scripture’s overarching message about God’s glorious plan to redeem his rebellious people.</p> <p>In <em>The Biggest Story</em>, Kevin DeYoung—a best-selling author and father of six—leads kids and parents alike on an exciting journey through the Bible, connecting the dots from the garden of Eden to Christ's death on the cross to the new heaven and new earth.</p> <p>With powerful illustrations by award-winning artist Don Clark, this imaginative retelling of the Bible’s core message—how the Snake Crusher brings us back to the garden—will draw children into the biblical story, teaching them that God's promises are even bigger and better than we think.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Author</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Kevin DeYoung </strong>(MDiv, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary) is senior pastor at University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan. He blogs at the Gospel Coalition and has authored or coauthored numerous well-known books such as <em>Just Do Something</em>, <em>The Hole in Our Holiness</em>, <em>Taking God At His Word</em>, <em>What Does the Bible Really Teach about Homosexuality?</em>, and <em>The Biggest Story</em>, as well as the award-winning books <em>Why We’re Not Emergent</em>, <em>Why We Love the Church</em> (with Ted Kluck), and <em>Crazy Busy</em>.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>About the Illustrator</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><strong>Don Clark</strong> is an artist and the cofounder of Invisible Creature, a widely respected and award-winning design studio based in Seattle, Washington. He has worked with clients such as Target, LEGO, <em>WIRED</em>magazine, Nike, Adobe, XBox, <em>The New York Times</em>, and more. Don lives with his wife and their three children on a ranch thirty minutes southeast of Seattle.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Age Recommendation:</strong> 5-8 (read to me); 8-11 (read to myself)  <br /><strong>Genre:</strong>  Christian children’s book  <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Hardcover, 132 pages, 7”x9” <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>$17.99 (currently $14.98 on Amazon) <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <a title="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433542447/ref=s9_psimh_gw_p14_d0_i1" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433542447/ref=s9_psimh_gw_p14_d0_i1">http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433542447/ref=s9_psimh_gw_p14_d0_i1</a> <br /><strong>For More Information:</strong> <a title="https://www.crossway.org/books/the-biggest-story-hccase/" href="https://www.crossway.org/books/the-biggest-story-hccase/">https://www.crossway.org/books/the-biggest-story-hccase/</a></p> <p><strong><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ywirujbF_hM/VfZruUBMY-I/AAAAAAAAF0g/RFMVDciJuRU/s1600-h/Biggest%252520Story%252520Content%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Biggest Story Content" border="0" alt="Biggest Story Content" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-86I1ZuKVpnA/VfZrvEbiWmI/AAAAAAAAF0o/hhvmj7AsYNw/Biggest%252520Story%252520Content_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <ul> <li><strong>The Story. </strong>I love how all those familiar little children’s stories are woven together in a bigger motif, a constant theme of God working to fulfill His promise. Each chapter is short enough to read easily at bedtime and wraps up nicely, but always with anticipation for the next chapter of God’s story.</li> <li><strong>The Illustrations.</strong> The colorful illustrations are what jump out immediately when picking up the book. Bright, bold, “cool designs,” as Esmé says. We would play a little game of looking at the chapter header designs and guessing what the chapter would be about. The illustrations make this an attractive gift book. They also tie the story concepts together. There are dark pages, monotonous pages, pages with a glimpse of light. Look at the bright, beautiful garden! <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_jK8_ya_nOI/VfZrv8d11EI/AAAAAAAAF0w/Vk4DT6Ag4v8/s1600-h/biggest-story-related-media2x-1%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="biggest-story-related-media2x-1" border="0" alt="biggest-story-related-media2x-1" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-5hoxU0Zcw0s/VfZrwp_f8WI/AAAAAAAAF04/-MXegoEPPAU/biggest-story-related-media2x-1_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="261" /></a></li> <li><strong>The Humor. </strong>The writing is fun at times – not comedic but just enough to make you smile. Try reading this one aloud, and you’ll see what I mean: “How would God save a couple million people from slavery? It’s not like he could just turn the Nile River into blood and send frogs and goats and flies and disease and boils and hail and locusts and darkness and death until the king of Egypt let them go!”</li> <li><strong>The Age Range. </strong>The picture-book format, broken up into short chapters, can hold the attention of younger ones. However, the comprehensive way the stories are all tied together make this more than the ordinary picture book – it is thought-provoking for the olders as well.</li> </ul> <p> <p><em></em></p> <strong>Giveaway!</strong></p> <p>Yes, I can offer one blessed reader an <em>The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Garden.</em>! We’re going simple with giveaway entries here: <strong>just enter a comment of any kind on this post</strong>, along with your email address or other way for me to contact you. A winner will be randomly selected on September 20. You must have a US or Canada mailing address to win.</p> <p><em>Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.</em></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for coordinating this book for review and providing the giveaway prize. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> <p><i><span style="font-size: x-small"></span></i></p> <p><i><span style="font-size: x-small"><strong><font size="3">Don’t forget to leave a comment for your chance to win this giveaway! </font></strong></span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-33660846061062888712015-08-15T00:27:00.001-07:002015-08-15T00:45:03.978-07:00Review/Giveaway: The Apologetics Study Bible<p>How do you answer the hard questions? </p> <ul> <li>If God is real and we can’t see Him, why don’t you think mermaids are real?</li> <li>If angels can become invisible, why can’t humans?</li> <ul><!--EndFragment--></ul> <li>I know God created the world, but what do I tell other people who insist science and Creation are not compatible? Why do they think that?</li> <li>How is Christianity different than other religions? Are the differences important?</li> <li>My friend isn’t a Christian because her dad thinks it’s stupid, and he’s an atheist. But she’s a nice person. What should I say to her?</li> <li>Why were people killed in the name of Christianity?</li> <li>Why does God allow people to get sick and die? Doesn’t He want us to be happy?<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kyC0iFhP-Is/Vc7p7SBwJwI/AAAAAAAAFy4/VeZ-BuGHghU/s1600-h/Apologetics%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Apologetics" border="0" alt="Apologetics" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RYP7-QFNrZw/Vc7p8Q3rXUI/AAAAAAAAFzA/dIO75_UzyHI/Apologetics_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></li> </ul> <p>One of the challenges of raising Miss Esmé has been getting bombarded with such questions since she was 3yo. I love that she thinks about such things, but I don’t always have ready answers.</p> <p>That’s where the<em> Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB</em> comes in handy!</p> <p><strong>Synopsis of Book</strong></p> <blockquote> <p><img style="display: inline; float: right" align="right" src="http://s6k1p2fwo5d41pace260ird5xg.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/img/webcovers/9781433616976_cvr_web.jpg" /><strong></strong></p> <p>The Apologetics Study Bible for Students anchors younger Christians in the truths of Scripture by equipping them with thoughtful and practical responses for whenever the core issues of their faith and life are challenged.</p> <p>Multiple research studies have shown that spiritual focus often weakens among teenagers as they head into the attention-dividing realm of young adulthood. Up to 66 percent of them leave church altogether. The Apologetics Study Bible for Students works against that trend by helping this audience begin to better articulate its beliefs. In addition to the complete HCSB text and dozens of articles collected from today’s most popular youth leaders, including editor Sean McDowell, this new study Bible also includes:</p> <p>Two-color design-intensive layout on every page for the visual generation Sixty “Twisted Scriptures” explanations, fifty “Bones & Dirt” entries (archaeology meets apologetics) Fifty “Notable Quotes”, twenty-five “Tactics” against common anti-Christian arguments Twenty “Personal Stories” of how God has worked in real lives Twenty “Top Five” lists to help remember key apologetics topics.</p> </blockquote> <p><strong>Age Recommendation:</strong> High school/college  <br /><strong>Genre:</strong>  Study Bible  <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong>  Formats available include black/tan, steel blue, or dark brown/coral imitation leather, as well as hardcover and paperback <br /><strong>List Price:  </strong>For Indexed Hardcover: $44.99. Currently on sale for $31.49 (30% savings) <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <u><a href="http://www.lifeway.com/Keyword/The+apologetics+study+bible+for+students">http://www.lifeway.com/Keyword/The+apologetics+study+bible+for+students</a></u> <br /><strong>For More Information:</strong> <u><a href="http://www.apologeticsbible.com">www.apologeticsbible.com</a></u></p> <p><strong>Mom’s Review:</strong> </p> <ul> <li><strong>The Translation.</strong> I found this to be a very “readable” version. This was an introduction to the Holman Christian Standard Bible for me. It is a modern language translation that combines word-for-word with thought-for-thought philosophies to allow for a smooth reading experience. In the instances where it veers from a literal translation, footnotes allow the reader to still access that literal translation.</li> <li><strong>Articles, Twisted Scripture Notes (60), Challenges and Tactics (25). </strong>These segments, interspersed throughout the Bible, are the parts that answer all those questions Esmé pops up with. There is an index at the front if you’re looking for a specific topic, but it’s also fun to just start up a discussion on whatever shows up on the Bible section we’re reading. These are written by a variety of authors, and it’s interesting to see similar topics addressed from different angles.</li> <li><strong>Bones & Dirt Notes (50). </strong>If your student is into history, these are interesting to read. You can see how current events and places relate to the Bible text.</li> <li><strong>Personal Stories (20). </strong><em>This would probably be Esmé’s favorite aspect.</em> Twenty personal stories make scripture obviously applicable to today’s youth.</li> <li><strong>Book Introductions. </strong>These are narratives in a conversational style meant to reach the student in a modern culture. <em>The “What in the world is going on?” section is my personal favorite as it pulls together historic details from around the world.</em> For example, while Psalms were being written, not only was the Iron Age beginning, but the “chiefs of the Olmecs, a pre-Columbian people group in southern Mexico, play an extremely violent, ritualistic ball game <em>juego de pelota.”</em>  It just intrigues me.</li> <li><strong>Index Tabs. </strong>The format of the book we have includes index tabs to help Bible students <img style="display: inline; float: right" align="right" src="http://s6k1p2fwo5d41pace260ird5xg.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/img/webcovers/9781586409319_cvr_web.jpg" width="150" height="194" />find the books of the Bible. We found that quite useful.</li> <li><strong>Formats. </strong>Speaking of formats, look at this pretty Espresso/Coral cover! Lots of format choices to meet your student’s preferences!</li> </ul> <p><strong>Some Precautions:</strong> <br />This isn’t a fit for everyone. If you fall into one of the following categories, think seriously before purchasing.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Politically Correct.</strong> The notes are mostly written from a socially conservative perspective. They tackle abortion and homosexuality pretty directly, for example. One of the articles that was most pertinent to me was “Do Christianity and Politics Mix,” and I agree with the point that trying to keep secular and sacred separate essentially pigeonholes God.</li> <li><strong>Mormon, Jehovah’s Witness. </strong>There are sections that take on the biblical veracity of Mormon and Jehovah’s Witness beliefs head-on.</li> </ul> <p>The notes go into doctrinal issues in depth, and there were a couple here and there with emphasis that didn’t exactly line up with my personal beliefs, for example, on the topic of hell. <em>Overall, however, I found the notes to be insightful and a great resource for strengthening my daughter’s Christian beliefs and positions in a world that seems less and less tolerant of those positions every day.</em></p> <p><strong>Giveaway!</strong></p> <p>Yes, I can offer one blessed reader an <em>Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB</em>! We’re going simple with giveaway entries here: just enter a comment of any kind on this post, along with your email address or other way for me to contact you. A winner will be randomly selected on August 19. You must have a US or Canada mailing address to win.</p> <p><em>Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.</em></p> <p><strong>Free Weekly Resources!</strong></p> <p>The good stuff isn’t over yet! There are some great video resources available to you for free! Maybe you’re interested in how to answer the accusation that the Bible demeans women. Or you’re not sure what to say to the media-favorite question: should abortion be allowed in the case of rape? Or perhaps you have a smarty-pants kid like mine who wants to know if God can make a rock so big He can’t lift it. You’ll find all these topics and more at <a title="http://www.apologeticsbible.com/" href="http://www.apologeticsbible.com/">http://www.apologeticsbible.com/</a>.</p> <p><a href="http://www.apologeticsbible.com/"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" alt="ApoSB_ChurchLeaders_Banner300x250 (1)" src="http://3l8hvo31a7yc2inkkn1eprjd.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2015/07/ApoSB_ChurchLeaders_Banner300x250-1.jpg" /></a></p> <p>You’ll also have a chance to win the <a href="https://app.promo.eprize.com/confidentfaith/">Confident Faith Sweepstakes</a> – a free Bible, a mini Apologetic Library, or even a free trip for two to hear some Christian apologetics at NCCA! <a href="https://app.promo.eprize.com/confidentfaith/"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" alt="Apo_eBlstSB_SwpLogo_2 (1)" src="http://3l8hvo31a7yc2inkkn1eprjd.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/2015/07/Apo_eBlstSB_SwpLogo_2-1-207x300.jpg" /></a></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for coordinating this book for review and providing the giveaway prize. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.</span></i></p> <p><i><span style="font-size: x-small"></span></i></p> <p><i><span style="font-size: x-small"><strong><font size="3">Don’t forget to leave a comment for your chance to win this giveaway! </font></strong></span></i></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-52792290041242137152015-07-24T12:51:00.001-07:002016-02-11T09:42:14.002-08:00Review: Passport2PurityThis past winter, I kept seeing these little signs that it was time for “the talk.” That birds-&-bees-&-so-much-more talk. <em>I wasn’t ready for it, so I pretty much ignored them.</em><br />
Then I got this review opportunity in my email. <em>I wasn’t ready for it. I ignored it.</em><br />
It showed up again.<br />
OK, God, I get the point. I signed up for the review. I still wasn’t sure if this would just be something I skimmed through and reviewed, waiting for the right time for “the talk.”<br />
As the review deadline got closer, I tentatively made plans for “the talk.” I was all ready for God to intervene and cancel the plans.<br />
He didn’t. Instead, there were more signs.<br />
<em>So we had “the talk.”</em><br />
Out of respect for my daughter’s privacy, I won’t be giving a lot of details on “the talk.” I just want to say that <strong>God’s timing is always right. If you’re seeing the signs, don’t delay!</strong><br />
<strong>Synopsis of Kit</strong> <br />
<blockquote>
<strong>A life-changing getaway with your preteen<img align="right" alt="Passport2Purity® Getaway Kit" src="https://shop.familylife.com/images/Product/medium/RPK16611.jpg" style="display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 0px 2px;" /></strong><br />
Your child begins the journey into adolescence in a world of sexting, bullying, online stalking and moral defiance. Innocence is under attack, and you cannot win the battle with a single awkward talk or a strict set of rules. The primary defense for your child is a strong relationship with you and with God.<br />
FamilyLife has developed Passport2Purity® (P2P) to assist you in building heart-to-heart communication with your preteen while laying a foundation of purity that will prepare them for the turbulent years ahead. Through the shared listening experience, object lessons and guided conversations of a P2P weekend getaway, you can set your son or daughter on a journey of moral integrity—and strengthen the bond between you.<br />
Passport2Purity® is designed to be used by a mother and daughter or a father and son when the child is a preteen. It is suggested that the materials be completed over a weekend away from home, as the child may be more open to discussing the topics away from his or her normal environment. If this isn’t possible, the material can be completed over a period of four or five weeks.</blockquote>
<strong>About the Author</strong> <br />
<blockquote>
Dennis and Barbara Rainey cofounded FamilyLife®, an international ministry to families and marriages, located in Little Rock, Arkansas. Dennis hosts FamilyLife Today®, a nationally syndicated broadcast bringing help and hope to nearly 1000 communities in the U.S. They have six adult children and a growing group of happy grandchildren.</blockquote>
<strong>Age Recommendation:</strong> Parent with preteen <br /><strong>Genre:</strong> Christian parenting <br /><strong>Physical Description:</strong> one Tour Guide (parent), one Travel Journal (preteen), and eight CDs (5 sessions, scripture memory songs & MP3s that can be downloaded from the CDs) <br /><strong>List Price: </strong>$39.99 <br /><strong>To Buy:</strong> <a href="http://familylife.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2&aff_id=1022&url_id=18">http://familylife.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2&aff_id=1022&url_id=18</a> <br /><strong>For More Information:</strong> <a href="http://www.familylife.com/passport2purity" title="http://www.familylife.com/passport2purity">http://www.familylife.com/passport2purity</a> <br /><strong>On Facebook:</strong> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Passport2Purity-Getaway-Kit-by-FamilyLife-Version-3/278981062285397" title="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Passport2Purity-Getaway-Kit-by-FamilyLife-Version-3/278981062285397">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Passport2Purity-Getaway-Kit-by-FamilyLife-Version-3/278981062285397</a><br />
<strong>Mom’s Review: The Good</strong> <br />This worked for us! Here are some of the things I appreciated:<br />
<ul>
<li><strong>The Special Event.</strong> There are step-by-step instructions to make this a memorable event for your child. If you follow them, this is something that will stick with your child forever.</li>
<li><strong>The God Focus. </strong>It’s all about Him, and He is definitely a factor in all the sessions and discussion.</li>
<li><strong>The Ease of Use. </strong></li>
<ul>
<li>Honestly, this isn’t the most comfortable topic! <strong>Having a third party bring up the topics and important factors</strong> via CD (not face-to-face!) takes away most of the stress, both on the part of the parent and child. The child doesn’t feel as singled out – other kids are going through this. Questions and discussion are much easier. </li>
<li><strong>The sessions are lined up to cover easier subjects first</strong> and work into the more difficult ones later, so you can easily dive right in on a comfortable topic and float along for the ride.</li>
<li><strong>Preparation is only as complicated as you want it to be.</strong> There is a separate to-do and supply list you can carry around as you get it done. The supplies are mostly items you probably already have, and a quick trip to the dollar store will wrap it up.</li>
</ul>
<li><strong>The Parents’ Role. </strong>This wasn’t a presentation with all the answers. There was a lot of emphasis on communicating with parents throughout the adolescent journey and respecting their boundaries and input.</li>
<li><strong>The Interesting Presentation. </strong>Sound effects, audio skits, illustrations, personal experiences from a variety of people, and comments of other preteens keep the listener intrigued and engaged throughout all five sessions.</li>
<li><strong>The Projects. </strong>They seemed a bit simple to me at first, but they are memorable, give a nice break from the audio presentation, and the kids like ‘em.</li>
<li><strong>The Scripture Songs. </strong>These are inserted at various points throughout the presentation and add another bit of a break. Even if they are not your style of music, they grow on you and are very effective. I wasn’t particularly enamored with the theme song at the beginning, but it is stuck in our heads now and comes out at the oddest of times.</li>
<li><strong>The Versatility of Experience Range. </strong>The presentation gives enough information for those who haven’t a clue, but also has good content for those who have thought a lot about the subject already.<em> I think it would be most effective at the beginning stages of pre-puberty.</em></li>
<li><strong>The Grace Component. </strong>While the focus is on abstinence until marriage, there is a section covering those who may have slipped on the journey. I think this is vital to keeping the communication lines open with your child through the journey to adulthood.</li>
<li><strong>The Follow-up Devotionals. </strong>Some of the best discussion happens after the event is over and information has had time to sink in. I like the extension given by the 25 student devotionals.</li>
</ul>
<strong>Some Precautions:</strong> <br />This isn’t a fit for everyone. If you fall into one of the following categories, think seriously before purchasing.<br />
<ul>
<li><strong>The Non-Weekend.</strong> Yes, this can be adjusted to fit your schedule, such once a week over a period of 4-5 weeks. But the presentation makes numerous references to your “special weekend” – so if you choose to schedule differently, prepare your child for the references and let her know why you’ve chosen to do it differently.</li>
<li><strong>Abstinence as an Option. </strong>If you’re wanting a sex-ed presentation that covers the options and pros and cons of each option, e.g. gives information on safe sex and alternatives to sex, this isn’t going to do it for you. <strong>It presents</strong> <strong>abstinence until marriage as the right choice</strong> and draws the line pretty early in the physical relationship.</li>
<li><strong>Nontraditional Family Structure. </strong>There are lots of references to family members in the intact nuclear format. If you have a nontraditional family structure, e.g. are a single parent, be prepared to deal with that.</li>
<li><strong>Diehard Feminist. </strong>There is a little section that addresses how girls’ actions can influence the way boys react and treat them. I personally think this is a great topic to cover with my daughter, but I could visualize the nostrils flaring on certain people I know.</li>
</ul>
Overall, this was a perfect fit for our family, and I highly recommend it for yours.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">--------------- </span> <br /><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">"<b>Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”):</b> Many thanks to FlyBy Promotions for coordinating this kit for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.</span></i>Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-22590525784081264892015-07-13T01:37:00.001-07:002015-07-13T01:49:17.787-07:00Day 1: Swimming with Guppies<p>The first day of our trip from Oregon to Missouri breaks forth bright and sunny as we finally settle down to the stressful business of packing. Which means Mom and Dad run helter-skelter around reminding each other of what the other needs to pack while forgetting what we are packing ourselves. <em>While Miss 8yo Esmé stresses over what color hair tie to wear, what lip gloss to put in her purse, starts reading the first of the 8 books her Mom said she had to take on the trip, transfers everything to a bigger purse, or wanders around the yard talking to moths or pretending to be a raccoon.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-CIo24qph9H0/VaN4Qzp8dXI/AAAAAAAAFtc/sSP17-kRzAY/s1600-h/Books4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Books" border="0" alt="Books" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P2nGTMEIYqY/VaN4RlcmlnI/AAAAAAAAFtk/I96BmEu1H9g/Books_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></em></p> <p>Finally all packed, in the car, driving around the backyard, I say, “I see the lawn maintenance guy you organized is at work already – good job! It’s gonna take him the the whole two weeks we’re gone to get through the whole yard.” <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-V4lafOX3STI/VaN4Sk-5aoI/AAAAAAAAFts/aWdIq6FMc0w/s1600-h/Deer4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Deer" border="0" alt="Deer" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-50R_wJSbV9s/VaN4TaoReBI/AAAAAAAAFt0/EFuD8kzNuBg/Deer_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p>And then, “Have you seen the cat?” </p> <p>“No, that was your job to keep track of him,” is the response.</p> <p>So we drive back around to the front door and take a check inside to make sure Mr. Flamey isn’t locked up in the bedroom, where he will die since his food and water is set up in the utility room. We don’t find him there, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t there, since he is a master hider when he chooses not to be found (as opposed to a master loud nuisance when he demands your attention). He has free access to the outdoors, so he could be anywhere. I make a few circles around the yard with no Flamey sightings. <em><strong>And I am doomed to live the entire trip in fear that we will find a dead skeleton of a cat in our bedroom on our return.</strong></em></p> <p>Finally, on the road several hours later than planned (if you can call anything we do “planning”), heading east along the North Umpqua River, wondering if anything else along this road trip can compare to its beauty. A few obligatory calls to Esmé to “Look out the window, for Pete’s sake” as we pass Mt Thielsen and Diamond Lake. Unfortunately, <strong><em>she can see absolutely nothing on the left side of the road since we have luggage piled up high</em></strong>, so I’m hoping most of the sights will be on her right. Daddy keeps forgetting and tells her to look anyway, so we revisit this issue numerous times. I snap another grainy picture through the windshield for your viewing pleasure.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R_DHWHS_JKs/VaN4T4i3SoI/AAAAAAAAFt8/hi5pT4rYV9s/s1600-h/Road4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Road" border="0" alt="Road" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tVqyqhMACKg/VaN4UgbSlCI/AAAAAAAAFuA/gBSbpIX15j8/Road_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p>As we approach the T junction on the other side of the mountains, we debate the merits of going north through Bend and Idaho or south through Nevada with the destination of Salt Lake City by Sunday evening. South is a half hour shorter, so it wins, even though <strong><em>it means Esmé will never in her life get to check Idaho off her “states visited” list.</em></strong></p> <p>It turns out to be a beautiful choice. We figure out how to get on Hwy 140 heading towards Winnemucca, Nevada. Eastern Oregon is surprisingly green along this road, which follows a beautiful little river a ways through forest and countryside.</p> <p><strong><em>A few hours into the trip, Esmé is ready for it to be over.</em></strong> At least for an opportunity to get out and stretch her legs a bit. So we pull over in a turnout – not much in the way of rest areas and shops and parks on this road. <strong><em>Esmé can’t find her flip flops.</em></strong> I start pulling out the luggage that is stacked at her feet and next to her, looking for them. Then Dad asks her, “Did you even bring them?” Apparently, just before leaving, she’d been cavorting through our yard, full of stickers and burrs, barefoot, which she never does. And I, <strike>stupidly</strike> sensibly, didn’t pack her flip flops because I assume she’ll sensibly wear them to the car. So I repack everything I unpacked and loan her my flip flops for the day, because we’re not going to get very far if she doesn’t stretch her legs. How much sadness can a mother take?<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4Y2xi5YSl3U/VaN4VeJ15uI/AAAAAAAAFuM/SXUn3MKm_gM/s1600-h/Barefoot4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Barefoot" border="0" alt="Barefoot" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--IL-qeDlY44/VaN4WFhWZRI/AAAAAAAAFuU/vfgqhhIst6o/Barefoot_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p>I have a pair of flats, but they are packed in the very back of a suitcase in the very back of the trunk, so I’m pretty much car-bound unless I wear Dad’s size-13 boats.</p> <p>She decides that she really likes oversized flip flops and claims my flip flops for her own. So much for painting my toenails yesterday.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-QgMLoZS67vs/VaN4XDNBxtI/AAAAAAAAFuc/tyoIJpedRsY/s1600-h/Shoes4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Shoes" border="0" alt="Shoes" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I2KWSSfLZ7o/VaN4X2FNEqI/AAAAAAAAFuk/IiHwkh7Qz-E/Shoes_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p>We eat the sandwiches I’d packed and head on, making sure to buy gas regularly since we never know where the next station will be and cell service is sketchy as best. By this time, we are the only car on the road for miles at a time. It is still quite pretty, just in a different “dry” way. </p> <p><em>Esmé is proving not to be a long-distance traveler at this point and regularly claims carsickness.</em> We stop again for a leg-stretch break near Warner Canyon Ski Area, pretty deserted at this time of year – as we head into the Great Basin.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mpuzNuQUR88/VaN4YyY0GgI/AAAAAAAAFus/RduGBPGy8RM/s1600-h/P11205514.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="P1120551" border="0" alt="P1120551" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3fxzfLm2TZ-Gg7j4IUlcCnzZnX2oZVUhw4FzPqoGxl8Nf1MKxYkhaVmnApUTjQE-T4SDoaCYHyMz_GJWtn6YqFOfgMj5fBcyPBf4_rCyt-emWsVY94WIb1EcX-7xVe1UhayTexKgKH_I/?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9cV7iLgB_cg/VaN4aMAD79I/AAAAAAAAFu8/lP1OQHpBUps/s1600-h/P11205584.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="P1120558" border="0" alt="P1120558" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sHBiRV8KX5k/VaN4avjrApI/AAAAAAAAFvE/-RDfrk9Wcq4/P1120558_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p>We stop and take the obligatory photos at the state line into Nevada. Much ado at this first border crossing – and it’s not like we’re holding up traffic! <em>(And yes, we will be back soon, Oregon.)</em><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-C5IbKhifbE4/VaN4brgF31I/AAAAAAAAFvM/zi6-Eol8VCk/s1600-h/Oregon4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Oregon" border="0" alt="Oregon" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Nbbbj-QxeuE/VaN4cUqLh0I/AAAAAAAAFvU/oFCvjENLs3o/Oregon_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--1mus9FCdYs/VaN4c6SKHFI/AAAAAAAAFvc/6A1LfqV0Wrw/s1600-h/Nevada4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Nevada" border="0" alt="Nevada" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SbT2mf_u_co/VaN4dkzrKaI/AAAAAAAAFvk/RH4pe2R15SM/Nevada_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p>Realizing Winnemucca is too far away if we want to camp, I do a search in a rare spot with cell service and locate Virgin Valley Campground, in Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge two hours short of Winnemucca. We have no idea what it will be like and are almost hesitant to turn off, since we are in the middle of desert-y nowhere with nothing around but sagebrush and hills.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha3Iseo3L5pORCxCqIen37WdC6EUFleJjWRFlhbBHwmQohrtM3Ccp8Hlqs8qPF0grBRx0amKFR_U4uQQcrLuFO3mQ86EanHj4H34-CozpP48-6ENzeqxZeRdCXepzzyAc1PKHbgTxau0U/s1600-h/Virgin4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Virgin" border="0" alt="Virgin" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-obsbTEtMkM8/VaN4fU9xaVI/AAAAAAAAFv0/C6OoMZ8dPC0/Virgin_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ZZJpkpZoUFo/VaN4gM3HE2I/AAAAAAAAFv8/wKWO0enkkSc/s1600-h/Sheldon4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="Sheldon" border="0" alt="Sheldon" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fSF7TFKo2aI/VaN4hJD4pKI/AAAAAAAAFwE/JTC4qc2kCkM/Sheldon_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p>Immediately on the turnoff, we realize this is right choice. An opal mine, obsidian (and apparently geodes) lining the road, it is a rock hunter’s paradise. There are ponds all along the drive filled with fowl of the best kind, pretty orange heads, mallards, and much more. We find the campground with a nice assortment of other campers, and it’s free!</p> <p>After finding my second pair of shoes, pitching the tent (surprisingly complete with no missing parts) and liberally applying OFF, Esmé digs for gold with a tent peg.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-fc47qfFnICQ/VaN4iGrDYMI/AAAAAAAAFwM/ZqoQESFx8Sk/s1600-h/P11205654.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="P1120565" border="0" alt="P1120565" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-JKAVi9cqLI4/VaN4iy_bVqI/AAAAAAAAFwU/z9cQcZxcmOM/P1120565_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p>Then we make the discovery of the night. There is a geothermal pool filled with guppies, bass, and tadpoles. The water also feeds a couple of showerheads so you can soap up and shower afterwards. So Esmé has her first swimming experience of the trip in quite the memorable place, catching guppies and watching tadpoles dart up and snatch them for snacks. <strong><em>And I have my first spa pedicure as the guppies nibbled the dead skin on my feet. Lovely.</em></strong><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oiwKPPn1T00/VaN4jvPmooI/AAAAAAAAFwc/R9Qy2RaoyhM/s1600-h/P11205674.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="P1120567" border="0" alt="P1120567" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PQzLPlD7Rso/VaN4kuCto6I/AAAAAAAAFwk/hnqKRjSBeag/P1120567_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qpUyWMn2b3Y/VaN4lbu03zI/AAAAAAAAFws/LcYo_r7hF1M/s1600-h/P11205694.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="P1120569" border="0" alt="P1120569" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-KRwqhsChmqg/VaN4mMCijFI/AAAAAAAAFw0/LfZZzjxPQvY/P1120569_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="404" /></a></p> <p>We survive the night with only a few mosquito bites and wake up ready for breakfast and the next day’s drive.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ho0MhpJ10rc/VaN4mkKqzyI/AAAAAAAAFxA/ji2C1tTCeIs/s1600-h/P11205744.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="P1120574" border="0" alt="P1120574" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a8bncenhnkU/VaN4naohj1I/AAAAAAAAFxI/INpPFeH39ds/P1120574_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p>I take a photo of the pool in daylight, as well as a nearby building.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Y6rCv4QToGs/VaN4oDkFI2I/AAAAAAAAFxQ/qQiIi97fAn8/s1600-h/P11205784.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="P1120578" border="0" alt="P1120578" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ta8lisePfNQ/VaN4o97DyTI/AAAAAAAAFxY/2koQlfO0Vdg/P1120578_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h_kY0E0oN-g/VaN4ptjN3FI/AAAAAAAAFxg/HdFgGr_h-Fw/s1600-h/P11205774.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="P1120577" border="0" alt="P1120577" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e7S8IGYdOkg/VaN4qctYcXI/AAAAAAAAFxo/YXTSmiCxtyA/P1120577_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="404" height="304" /></a></p> <p>Then, because our car isn’t heavily loaded enough, we stuff nooks and crannies of our <strike>overloaded</strike> car with <strike>rocks</strike> choice obsidian specimens, though we don’t come close to the 7- pound-per-person limit. Then we head on down the road to Winnemucca, vowing to come back for a full weekend of camping sometime soon.</p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-68100127828256567482014-12-25T12:51:00.004-08:002014-12-25T12:51:40.607-08:00Happy Birthday, Jesus!<div align="center">
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2014</div>
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2013<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zN_h54Yr4Ik/UsA2VXxE5II/AAAAAAAAFcQ/B1Fxx9zK9kc/s1600-h/P1100606%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="P1100606" border="0" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NjqYTvlJDGM/UsA2WWPnTcI/AAAAAAAAFcY/ig_yTf2bRfw/P1100606_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="404" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1100606" width="304" /></a></div>
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2012</div>
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2011 </div>
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4CmiqhWvKlU/Tvuug5cL35I/AAAAAAAACXs/ZAQTwTyKdUc/s1600-h/P1050649%252520%2525282%252529%25255B9%25255D.jpg"><img alt="P1050649 (2)" border="0" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bxNMThYwF7E/TvuujbtqvCI/AAAAAAAACX0/4DWAnRf85JQ/P1050649%252520%2525282%252529_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="404" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1050649 (2)" width="304" /></a> <br />
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2010 </div>
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_LZBRDnWBgA0/TSqcYFKzaGI/AAAAAAAABD8/JKqZkAE7cgM/s1600-h/P1010966%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="P1010966" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_LZBRDnWBgA0/TSqcZEUNNsI/AAAAAAAABEA/PnfoLZMpT5s/P1010966_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" height="404" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="P1010966" width="304" /> </a> <br />
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2009</div>
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_LZBRDnWBgA0/TSqcfoiviAI/AAAAAAAABEE/yaFCG08eYvA/s1600-h/image%5B6%5D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_LZBRDnWBgA0/TSqcjZC_NQI/AAAAAAAABEM/bgMJAl5riyY/image_thumb%5B2%5D.png?imgmax=800" height="404" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="image" width="304" /></a> <br />
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2008 </div>
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_LZBRDnWBgA0/TSqcpaCk2QI/AAAAAAAABEQ/oQ6gJ4udKgw/s1600-h/image%5B7%5D.png"><img alt="image" border="0" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_LZBRDnWBgA0/TSqctkNzOJI/AAAAAAAABEU/tVBa21xh1ZA/image_thumb%5B3%5D.png?imgmax=800" height="303" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="image" width="404" /></a> <br />
<object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GQyXWllz5Ao&hl=en_US&fs=1&"> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"> <param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GQyXWllz5Ao&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-31389316527957225282014-08-15T09:30:00.000-07:002014-08-15T09:30:01.009-07:00Friday Fragment: T I A Part 2<p><span style="font-size: xx-small">Originally posted July 27, 2008</span></p> <p>Esmé pours rocks inside a plastic bag with no bottom. Her girlfriend had had this wrapped around her foot, and when she took it off Esmé was quite fascinated with it. She tried putting the plastic bag on her foot, too.</p> <p><a href="http://a550.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/110/l_2ea7312f52dc40a31861308ca9360a65.jpg"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="" src="https://a1-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/110/2ea7312f52dc40a31861308ca9360a65/full.jpg" width="400" height="299" /></a> <br />And girlfriend found some ribbon from a cassette tape in the rocks and was "flossing her teeth" with it. Esmé had to try that, too!<img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="" src="https://a1-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/109/26512391082dfaccd4b56eeee0224a34/full.jpg" width="400" height="299" /> <br />Another little girl who found plenty of entertainment in a piece of tape!<img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="" src="http://a1-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/48/88a98979c46a0e200c3e1ffce97eb49d/full.jpg" width="310" height="400" /> <br />There is JOY in Africa, friends! Found amidst the rocks, plastic bags, cassette ribbon, and tape. <br /><a href="http://a575.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/116/l_fbf1e17f458c17eacfc4781821dec0d6.jpg"><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="" src="https://a1-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/116/fbf1e17f458c17eacfc4781821dec0d6/full.jpg" width="400" height="299" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://moziesme.blogspot.com/2008/07/t-i-part-2.html">[Click here to continue reading]</a></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-61024528807283457672014-08-08T21:24:00.000-07:002014-08-08T21:24:00.315-07:00Friday Fragment: T I A<p><span style="font-size: xx-small">Originally posted July 25, 2008</span></p> <p>You know that joke about the employee who takes time off because he would <em>like</em> to attend his mother-in-law's funeral, only to ask for time off again the next month for the same reason? (The punchline is that she isn’t dead yet.)</p> <p>Well, in Mozambique I don't think people would get the joke.</p> <p>For starters, people refer to extended relatives as brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers. So when someone tells you his “sister” has died, it might be his cousin. And his “mother” might be his mother’s cousin. Seems sweet, but it’s a little disconcerting from an employer’s perspective when one tries to be sympathetic and keeps giving time off and funds for employee family funerals.</p> <p>Remember our gardener, Antonio? The <a href="http://moziesme.blogspot.com/2008/07/update-on-beans.html">beanless guy</a>? Yesterday he informed me that his wife just died, and he needs 2 weeks off and some travel money to fetch his son.</p> <p>What? His wife died late last year – he took a month off then. Did he marry again already?</p> <p>No, no. That wife was his second wife, his Maputo wife. His primary wife lived 3 days travel up north. And his son now has no one to care for him. The grandparents are dead, too.</p> <p>How many more wives does he have????</p> <p>Just these two. No more. Now he has no wives left.</p> <p>My heart grieves for the motherless son. And once again I’m troubled by my lack of sympathy and compassion as an employer.</p> <p><a href="http://moziesme.blogspot.com/2008/07/t-i.html">[Click here to continue reading]</a> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="https://a1-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/93/154bed46a23eb0fd32b9c5faddcf6e4a/full.jpg" width="500" height="374" /></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-562197752166850400.post-400206578833329782014-08-01T21:23:00.000-07:002014-08-01T21:23:00.405-07:00Friday Fragment: What Esmé Needs<span style="font-size: xx-small">Originally posted July 23, 2008</span> <br /> <ol> <p>Here’s how it works – Google your name followed with a verb like “needs." Copy the first few results and add your own commentary. <br />So here are our Thursday Thirteen for this 15-month-old bebe:</p> <ol> <li><em>Esmé needs to go date about 3 different guys and have the time of her life.</em> Okay – I can do this, but I’m not sure Mommy and Daddy would approve until I’m a little older, say 16 months?</li> <li><em>Esmé needs her story now.</em> Did you know there was a song by Jawbreaker about me? Neither did I! It’s not exactly kiddie music, though, so I’m not linking.</li> <li><em>Esmé needs love.</em> Definitely! I’ve got plenty of it, thank goodness.</li> <li><em>Esmé needs to address her bank accounts.</em> And which ones might those be? I got a piggy bank full of change – maybe I should bank it?</li> </ol> </ol> <p><a href="http://moziesme.blogspot.com/2008/07/thursday-13-what-esm-needs.html">[Click here to continue reading]</a> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="https://a1-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/17/3867496fe6ff22aa48789e3f28024d3d/full.jpg" width="375" height="500" /></p> Mozi Esmehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16078786257885681829noreply@blogger.com0