tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47563196636775439082024-03-12T19:41:15.290-06:00Three Sisters and a Little MisterSons are indeed a heritage from the LORD, children a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons born in one's youth. Happy is the man who has filled his quiver with them.
Psalm 127:3-5Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.comBlogger183125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-33197851846737029832013-04-21T20:39:00.003-06:002013-04-21T20:39:38.306-06:00Bread and WineWow, I love this book. Love, love, LOVE this book!!! I know a good book review summarizes the book first and gives you an overview of the contents. But I figure you've already read all of that so I thought I would just skip over that and get to the heart of what I loved about the book. <br />
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From the very first chapter I felt like I knew the author, Shauna Niequist, even though this is the first book I have ever read of hers. Her writing is very personable and I appreciated her honesty on her life situations. I believe I could walk into her kitchen anytime and we would talk about whatever subject comes up. I learned from her chapter "Start Where You Are" which talks about having people over for a meal even if you just serve them frozen pizza. She then goes on to explain how she enjoyed having people over and started reading cookbooks to find out how to cook. She, of course, is a fantastic gourmet cook so it was assuring to read of her beginning hospitality and how she was able to take it to higher levels.<br />
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Shauna told about her travels and writes about her own personal experiences with over indulgence. Her husband needs to eat gluten free but she is working on middle ground for herself......some fasting , some feasting. I love it!! (Have I said that before?) To top it all off, she ends almost each chapter with a delicious recipe!! I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to cook. Or not.<br />
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I received this book free from Booksneeze for an honest review. They did not say it had to be a positive review. <br />
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<br />Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-72211186208365837122013-04-07T20:56:00.001-06:002013-04-07T20:56:52.803-06:00When Jesus WeptWhen Jesus Wept is the first book of the Jerusalem Chronicles by Bodie and Brock Thoene. Bodie and Brock Thoene are best-selling authors of over 65 works of historical fiction and I have been privileged to read the Zion Covenant and The Zion Chronicles. I really need to read the other series of books they have written as well but for some reason I just have not gotten to them. However, when I found out I would be able to read and review the first book of the Jerusalem Chronicles, I could hardly wait for the book to arrive. This couple is well known to research history thoroughly to provide accurate timelines and historical data in the stories they write.<br />
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The beginning of this book has me looking at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry in
a new light. I didn’t realize the strictness of the Roman rule and it
definitely made me pay attention to the details as I read my Bible. The
Thoene’s introduce Lazarus and the first part is about Lazarus before he and his
sisters met Jesus. The whole account of Lazarus owning a vineyard and making
wine was fascinating to me. The story goes on to the Wedding of Cana. Again,
just interesting to see someone tell about this and give me different
perspective on it.<br />
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The book is divided into 4 parts and tells different parts of Jesus' ministry from Lazarus' perspective. The way the authors describe Mary was intriguing and again, gave me fresh perspective into her life and Martha's as well. It is hard to review a fiction book without giving away the story line. But I will say that I would recommend this book to anyone who has a mind for the creative and desires to see the Bible story come alive from another Christian perspective.<br />
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I received this book from Booksneeze, a blogger program from Thomas Nelson, in exchange for my book review.Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-426482601155997702013-02-25T15:50:00.000-06:002013-02-25T15:50:42.528-06:00Upside Down Prayers for ParentsUpside-Down Prayers for Parents by Lisa T. Bergren has 31 devotions that contain prayers you can pray for your children as they experience life. The author shares how, as parents, we tend to shield our children from harm when we should really be equipping them to trust God even in the midst of trials.<br />
Each day starts with a sentence prayer with a scripture verse. This is followed by the author's devotional thought, a longer prayer to read out loud, and then she gives suggestions for making it personal (where you can journal), and also suggestions for making it relevant for your age child.<br />
I found this book to be very comforting and insightful as to putting my thoughts into words for my children. I have definitely had times where I had no idea how to approach my child with what he or she was going through and I can see where this book will be a great help in the future.<br />
Disclosure: I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-75846522917603339122013-02-05T12:51:00.000-06:002013-02-05T12:51:14.950-06:00Unglued Devotional by Lysa TerKeurstUnglued Devotional by Lysa TerKeurst is a devotional that is a companion to her bestselling book "Unglued." It
is a daily devotional for 60 days about struggles that a woman or anyone can
have in life. Each chapter starts with a Bible Verse, a Thought for the Day, the devotional by Lysa, and ends with a prayer.<br />
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I only have the Unglued
Devotional and I don't feel like I am missing out from not having the companion book. Lysa is very personable and definitely hits home for me as I am juggling many hats at once. (I and my hasband have 4 children, and we both work full-time. Oh and I'm taking online classes so I can get my Masters Degree. How do you spell C-R-A-Z-Y!!) When Lysa talks about losing it with her children, I can definitely relate. Everything that Lysa has described is so true in my life. She talks about self control and being grateful. Things that Satan makes us feel guilty for and things we should be convicted to change. But with each chapter I receive encouragment. I am so grateful to find a book where I can relate and receive spiritual refreshment.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers for an advance reading as part of their Booksneeze bloggers program . I was not required to write a positive review and therefore, the book review is 100% my own opinion.</span><br />
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Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-52000602365128860272012-12-21T14:45:00.003-06:002012-12-21T14:45:56.376-06:00Chasing After the Heart of God-a DVD based Bible StudyWe're all chasing after something, something that we think will make us happy......but if we are all honest, it feels like we are trying to catch the wind. This is a quote from the back of the student's book that gives you an introduction to Jennie Allen's new study, Chase. The study involves a look at David's life, a man after God's own heart. It explores the events that defined David's life and the Psalms that flowed out of those experiences. <br />
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I couldn't wait to dive into this study. The DVD's are short and are meant to set the tone for your study time together. God uses Jennie to give insight into each lesson's material and also gives questions to make you think before you begin your discussion time. There are also cards provided for each lesson where an individual picks up a card and reads the question out loud. One example is "In what ways have you been chasing God in your life?" Or. "What usually causes you to feel disappointed or sad?" I would say you would only use this in a group that is willing to share with each other. I have led groups that are willing to do that and some that aren't. And a leader can usually pick up on that fairly quickly.<br />
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The study guide was excellent and can even be done on your own. I am a huge promoter of a bible study that gives me more insight into God's Word. This fits the bill.<br />
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I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers for an advance reading as part of their Booksneeze bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and therefore, the book review is 100% my own opinion.Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-78534542284924307412012-10-11T14:53:00.001-06:002012-10-11T14:53:22.404-06:00You Can't Make Me by Cynthia TobiasCynthia Tobias has written several books on the learning styles of children. I have heard her speak a couple times of the James Dobson program, Focus on the Family. I always listened attentively while Cynthia spoke as her findings rang so true with her experiences on how children learn differently. And I was able to apply many things she said to our own 4 children.<br />
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This book focuses on the strong willed child which the author confesses that she was one. Just remembering what she shared of the challenges she gave her own parents underlined that she knew what she was talking about when addressing this subject. I appreciated her positive approach which gave such encouragement when I thought there was no way I would be able to deal with my child one more day.<br />
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This book gives great strategies in dealing with all types of children. It gives alot of information and I would recommend it highly to all families. <br />
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I received this book free from Multnomah Press in exchange for an honest review. I was in no way obligated to leave a positive review. Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-8231491259790114482012-09-21T15:02:00.002-06:002012-09-21T15:02:28.257-06:00The Southern FoodieThe Southern Foodie is a cookbook by Chris Chamberlain. It summarizes 100 places to eat in the South. Chris has travelled to these locations and has compiled a book of some of the delicious recipes that were shared with him.<br />
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I got this book mainly because I and my husband have a motorcycle and we love to try new places to eat. We live in Arkansas so I was hoping to get alot of ideas of restaurants to try out. I can't say that happened as he only had a couple in the area we live in. But at the same time there are some great ideas for when we leave the Arkansas area in our travels.<br />
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I know that probably the main reason for the book was more for the recipes and it does have an impressive list of the 100 restaurants in the southern states including Texas and Florida.<br />
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I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers for an advance reading as part of their Booksneeze bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and therefore, the book review is 100% my own opinion.<br />
Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-39894697970374739092012-08-13T13:04:00.001-06:002012-08-13T13:04:51.283-06:00Unbroken by Lauta Hillenbrand (author of Seabiscuit)Unbroken is authored by Laura Hillenbrand and is a World War II story of survival, resilience, and redemption. It chronicles the life story of Louie Zamperini, an olympic gold contender in the 1936 olympics held in Germany. The book tells events of his life, how adventurous and mischievous he was, until he got serious about running in high school. His brother, Pete, another fast runner, helped train Louie and encouraged him to run in the 1936 olympics.<br />
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This book is about more than the Olympics, however. World War II came and many men were drafted, including Louie. It tells of the branch of service he was in and the training he went through in the armed forces. It portrays the bravery of the men he fought with, especially with the equipment they were given to fight with. And to fly in. I learned more about the airplanes used for World War II than I care to know. <br />
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Unfortunately, one of Louie's command attacks didn't make it, and he was plunged in the ocean with 2 of his men. I was amazed at how they lived each day in the ordeal of being on a raft in salt water with nothing around them but more salt water and sharks!! If that wasn't bad enough, they were rescued by Japanese and were made POW's. After reading this book I have greater respect for our POW's and what they went through. I honestly don't know how they survived the atrocities that were given to them. <br />
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This book will make you so thankful for the freedom we celebrate and experience in the United States. It will also remind you that God is a God of miracles. I encourage you to read it!! I received this book free from Waterbrook Multinomah for an advance reading as part of their Blogging For Books program . I was not required to write a positive review and therefore, the book review is 100% my own opinion.Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-78522216799850281292012-08-03T21:30:00.006-06:002012-08-03T21:30:47.830-06:00Call of a CowardCall of a Coward (The God of Moses and the Middle-Class Housewife) is by Marcia Moston and chronicles the part of her life when God calls her and her husband to minister in Guatemala. Actually it was her husband who felt God calling them to foreign missions. Marcia was not so sure. I loved the honesty she shared as she told of their trip into Mexico and then across that border into Guatemala, bringing their young daughter with them. She shared the fear she had of the banditos and the unsafe roads they had to travel to the village they lived at in Guatemala. How many of us would travel on a road when all we could see from our window was a sheer drop off into a canyon below? (shudder)<br />
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I also loved how Marcia prefaced each chapter with insight God had shown her. I particularly liked the preface to chapter 4: "Those kicking and screaming death-throes moments when you realize you aren't and you can't are God's opportunities to show you He is and He can." She shared how her day went and how she had to have someone prepare the food and do the laundry otherwise that was all she would be able to do day after day, instead of ministering to the women around her. She also shared how it wasn't always easy to give up the life she knew in the States and when a missionary brought her chocolate, she really didn't want to share it with the people she was serving. <br />
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The author told her story with humor and I believe that is why I enjoyed the book most of all. Because life just isn't always easy and sometimes you just have to laugh at situations God puts you in. I appreciated Marcia's candidness, her honesty, and how God answered her prayers. She is an example to all of us to minister where God has put us. <br />
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I received this book from Booksneeze in return for a book review which is entirely my own opinion.<br />
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<br />Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-67656813991891729132012-06-05T10:08:00.002-06:002012-06-05T10:08:53.399-06:00FEARLESSI was deeply moved by Fearless. This is my first book by Author Eric Blehm. Upon completion of the book I can understand why God picked him to write this book for the Brown family. In my opinion Eric exposed the true heart of Adam Brown and his loving family. I was drawn to this book since I am both a Navy Vet and an Arkansan. <br />
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I cried and laugh throughout the entire book. You are hit right way with the reality that Adam will give his life for his country. Then on the first page of chapter one you read the words of a true hero. A warrior that knows one day he may not come home and has to say good bye to his children in a letter no warrior wants to be delivered.<br />
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I am thankful Eric cover Adam’s life from his birth. Adam’s parents, Larry and Janice Brown, work hard to provide for their family. Making sacrifices all middle to low income American’s make to raise a family. From birth Adam was Fearless. Climbing anything he could find and seeing how high he could go. While Adam was more than willing to pushes the boundaries of his physical abilities. He was also mindful of others. As a teenager Adam was quick to break from the crowd when they did something he knew his parents didn’t want him to do. One example while Adam was sleeping over at a friend’s house. Most of the boys decided to sneak out. Adam stayed behind. When asked by the friends Dad why Adam didn’t go with the boys, Adam replied, “My parents told me not to leave the house without permission, sir”.<br />
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Adam was drawn to team sports after watching his older brother Shawn play Football. He could not wait for his chance to be on the High School Football. Being a part of a team provide Adam with a purpose and direction. Upon completely High School, most of Adam’s friend’s went off to college. Adam did not have a plan. Thankfully God did have a plan for Adam’s. The next six years of Adam’s life would be a tough time for him and his family. Adam would end up stealing from his family and friends. Finally Adam’s parents had Adam arrested. Something Larry and Janice describe as being the hardest thing they ever had to do. During this tough time Larry turned to God for strength. Larry committed his Life to Christ. God led Larry and Janice to a loving church family that supported them through this tough time. After completing a yearlong drug rehab program Adam met Kelley Tippy during an evening out with Friends. Kelley would help Adam find his purpose in life. <br />
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Adam and Kelley married just before entering the Navy. Adam enlisted with the goal of becoming a Navy Seal. Adam had regained his sense of purpose and direction. During the next few years of training Adam and Kelley had a son and a daughter. <br />
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Fearless is a perfect description of Adam Brown. Adam to faced challenges his entire life. He never once thought about quitting or giving in. Even when he lost the use of one eye, had his hand damaged in a Humvee accident, or felt the calling of his drug addiction. <br />
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Fearless is a gripping story of how one family overcame great pain with the help of God. The loss of Adam was devastating. They know that one day they will see him again in Heaven. <br />
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Waterbrook Multinomah Publishing provided me with a free copy of this book through their Blogging For Books program. I did not need to provide a positive or negative review. Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-69683855152336416952012-04-18T19:34:00.001-06:002012-04-18T19:35:49.428-06:00Simply Grilling by Jennifer Chandler<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jennifer Chandler is an accomplished author of several cookbooks and <span style="background-color: white;">graduated at the top of her class with Le Grand Diplome and a Mention Tres Bien in Pastry from Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. So the girl knows how to cook! </span><span style="background-color: white;">She also knows how to put together a cookbook!! What cook doesn't love a picture of each recipe in the book. Guilty!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">She comes up with great ideas from grilling artichokes to shrimp to fennel. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Jennifer gives great tips on grilling and the recipes look delish. That said, </span><span style="background-color: white;">I don't know that I'll ever try fennel. And Jennifer uses several ingredients that I would never use (like mint). But hey, I can't knock it if I haven't tried it.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I would recommend looking at the recipe list for this book before purchasing just to make sure you will use it. That is just my recommendation. I </span><span style="line-height: 19px;">received this book as part of Thomas Nelson’s Booksneeze program in return for an honest review.</span></span>Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-44674096485596447862012-03-23T08:13:00.000-06:002012-03-23T08:13:13.052-06:00The Scent of Cherry BlossomsCindy Woodsmall writes another great Amish novel, The Scent of Cherry Blossoms. It is a romance novel from the heart of Amish Country and we are introduced to Annie Martin who is of the Old Order Mennonite people. Unfortunately, Annie and her Mom do not get along and it actually surprised me that her Mom "kicks" her out of her house and Annie goes to live with her Daadi Moses in Apple Ridge. <br />
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Daadi Moses lives near a restaurant run by the Amish. The Amish don't believe in using electricity but the Old Mennonite do so because of Daadi Moses, the restaurant is able to have electricity. While Annie lives with her Daadi Moses she helps out at the restaurant that is run by Aden's family and where Aden works as well. A relationship builds but when it is found out, both families have huge objections. Aden's brother is one of them because he was in an accident that left him wheelchair bound and he needs Aden to help him.<br />
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Annie and Aden start meeting in the evenings by the cherry trees that are beginning to blossom. And Annie tells Aden the story behind the cherry trees. You'll have to read about that story and how the romance turns out when you get the book, The Scent of Cherry Blossoms!<br />
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I received this book for free from Waterbrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-79061718784923622852012-03-07T08:36:00.000-06:002012-03-07T08:36:43.216-06:00Three Hearts DVDThree Hearts introduces us to Cissie Graham Lynch, granddaughter of Billy Graham and daughter of Franklin Graham, who takes on a life-changing internship with the Children's Heart Project which is under the umbrella of Samaritan Purse. It documents her journey to help bring three Mongolian children to America for surgery to repair deadly congenital heart defects that would not be able to be done where they live.<br />
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I would classify this movie as more of a documentary and I don't mean that in a negative way. I've just seen alot of documentaries and movies and this seems more like the former to me. It is a great story about how the Children's Heart Project "finds" these children with heart defects and the process of bringing them to the States to have the surgery done. One can be very thankful for the team that is committed to this task and this story definitely shows how God works to bring these surgeries about. If you don't think one life can change anything you need to see this movie because a little boy in Texas had a big heart and was able to make a huge difference in the lives of 3 children.<br />
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The movie also portrays what the Mongolian families went through to trust the Children's Heart Project team enough to risk their lives to go to a country far away, be in surroundings completely foreign to them, and allow their children to go through a surgery that could mean life or death for their child. The movie brings you into the story to see how the Christian people involved use their testimony in words and action to these families.<br />
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I would also share that this isn't a "feel good" movie but one to challenge you to reach out to others in need, to be Jesus to them, and to remember that our witness is Global and not just local.<br />
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I was given a complimentary copy of this DVD by Thomas Nelson Publishers in exchange for an honest review.Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-78359600721774348062011-11-30T20:43:00.000-06:002011-11-30T20:43:22.186-06:00Heaven is For Real DVD based Conversation KitHeaven is For Real is a little boy's astounding story of his trip to heaven and back. It has become a #1 New York Times bestseller and this DVD series is a conversation guide for groups and/or families. There are 5 sessions and all talk about different aspects of heaven. <br />
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I have to be honest. I have been a skeptic of this book all along and I probably shouldn't have even looked into this DVD series. It is just hard for me to accept the testimony or witness of a 4 year old boy who says he has seen heaven over what the Bible says about heaven. <br />
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The interview was pretty basic. I mean, heaven is colorful. Seriously? Are there animals in heaven. Oh the boy enjoyed playing with the lions. And everyone was nice in heaven. Okay no surprises there. The Dad who is a Pastor also shared in the DVD's and again, no surprising revelation there.<br />
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All in all, I don't see that anyone will learn anything new from this study. No new revelations. And should that surprise us as God Himself says that nothing shall be added or taken away from His Word.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">I got my copy for free from Thomas Nelson Publishing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions belong to me.</span>Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-40239293612520518992011-10-19T20:41:00.000-06:002011-10-19T20:41:55.957-06:00Three Cups<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As soon as we receive a book in the mail our girls want to immediately sit down and read it. And this was no exception. Three Cups is about a<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"> five-year-old boy who is given three cups from the family cupboard for his birthday. H</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">e then learns how to divide his allowance between three cups; saving, spending, and giving. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My personal take is that the story is short, sweet, and to the point. As a Mom I really did expect the storyline to have a little more to it as I thought it ended rather abruptly. I also thought the pictures in the book appeared rather dull and should have been brightened up somehow. At any rate, at the end of the book my 3 daughters did want to each have 3 cups of their own. So the book did achieve it's point. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I received a complementary copy of Three Cups through the Thomas Nelson Publishing Booksneeze program in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.</span></span>Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-77612220102599123112011-09-16T14:41:00.000-06:002011-09-16T14:41:22.074-06:00Gabby, God's Little AngelAs soon as we got this book, I and my girls had to sit down and read it right away. I love Sheilia Walsh and she has authored another wonderful children's book. The drawings are colorful and very appealing to small children. The story about a guardian angel was well told for children and very well illustrated. I was very pleased with this book. Also, our 4th grade daughter was able to read it by herself.<br />
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Sheilia Walsh has written many good books, some of which are: Gigi, God's Little Princess; Will, God's Mighty Warrior; and The Pink Ballerina. She has also written some wonderful books for women on many topics that have come from her heart. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers for an advance reading as part of their Booksneeze bloggers program . I was not required to write a positive review and therefore, the book review is 100% my own opinion.</span>Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-54644349669551395042011-08-02T19:03:00.000-06:002011-08-02T19:03:46.283-06:00Thunder Dog-True Story!This is a true story of how Michael Hingson survived 9/11 with his guide dog, Thunder. This is not only a great narrative of the events that happened to Michael that day but also shares about Michael's life and how he coped with his blindness. And it includes how Michael came about to getting his guide dog and eventually, Roselle, the dog that saved his life that day in the Twin Towers. <br />
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This book will amaze you at what Michael was able to accomplish even while he was a boy despite his blindness. He shares how his parents supported him and loved him so much that they would not send him to a home for the blind even when they were told when Michael was just weeks old that he was hopelessly and incurably blind. Instead they treated him as a normal son and again, you will be amazed at what he was able and encouraged to do, not only as a young boy, but later as a college student. <br />
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This book should encourage you to try to do what others say you can not do. It will educate you on the training of guide dogs and how special they are. It will involve you in the events of 9/11. But hopefully it will also open your eyes that blind people want to be accepted as normal, just like you and me.<br />
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<div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font: normal normal normal medium/normal 'Times New Roman'; line-height: 20px;">I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http: booksneeze®.com="">book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http: 16cfr255_03.html="" cfr="" nara="" waisidx_03="" www.access.gpo.gov="">: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</http:></http:></span></span></div>Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-49434754038188448032011-07-15T07:36:00.000-06:002011-07-15T07:36:54.187-06:00About that list...I didn't chicken out!! I went to JBU and worked out this morning. I somehow managed to get through week 4 day 1 of C25K!!! Warm-up--no problem...3 min run @ 6 mph--success...90 sec walk @ 3.5 mph--no problem...5 min run started at 6 mph for the first 2 min, but had to slow to 5.5 mph to finish the interval--still a success, I'd say...2.5 min walk @ 3.5 mph--no problem...3 min run @ 6 mph had to slow to 5.5 mph then brisk walk @ 4 mph for the last 90 sec of it...90 sec walk @ 3.5 mph--no problem...last 5 min run @ 6 mph quickly got slowed to 5.5 mph. Had to slow to 4 mph brisk walk after 90 sec of running for about 90 sec, but then finished the last two min with a 5.5 mph run...Cool down @ 3.5 mph--was ever so thankful I made it through. This has not been the easiest thing I've ever done, nor the hardest, but I'm glad I'm continuing the program. Still wondering when I'm going to get that "second wind." :) <br />
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</div><div>Now onto yesterday's list...the Wal-Mart trip was a success. The kids were pretty good in spite of the fact that Drew and Melanie did not have a nap and it was indeed nap time! I even managed to stay within budget! :) Dentist appointments were successful as far as behavior. It was Melanie's first time, and she acted like a pro! Even the hygienist was impressed. :) Unfortunately Anne has 4 cavities that have to be taken care of, and Naomi has two. Naomi has weak enamel on her permanent molars, and it looks like she's going to get a couple of crowns out of the deal. Andy took care of dinner--leftovers, hot dogs, and mac-n-cheese--since I had WW (1/2 lb loss). After the kids were in bed Andy and I did watch the Harry Potter movie. Well, I should say I watched the movie. Andy fell asleep during it. I'm excited about watching Part 2 tonight!<br />
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As for the rest of the list...here's my new list for today (don't worry I won't bore you with a list everyday, but it is my blog. :))<br />
1. Occasions--still need to get a bday gift for SIL.<br />
2. Load of laundry--the gift that keeps on giving no matter the holiday.<br />
3. Master suite--will start somewhere, even if just a corner!!<br />
4. Curriculum mapping--I'm not pressing my luck. Maybe I'll just look at it. :)<br />
5. Nap!!!! I'm going on very little sleep, but managing. Definitely planning to nap while the little ones are doing the same. The dog might have to go in her kennel and everyone go down for a nap. :)<br />
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Once again thankful for God's mercy!! "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall run and not grow weary. They shall walk and not faint." </div>Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-15184029744458250542011-07-14T07:45:00.000-06:002011-07-14T07:45:28.156-06:00Ramblings...nothing more. :)There are always about a million things going on in my head at once. I know most women can relate. I wish that, like Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series, I could just use a magic want, point it to my temple, withdraw the thoughts and then store them in little bottles so I can just take them out one by one and deal with them. Today's thoughts...in list form...<br />
1. Need to run to Wal-Mart to grocery shop--with 4 kids--ugh! Unfortunately my list isn't quite complete, but going anyway.<br />
2. SIL's bday today. Think I'll stop by Occassions in Siloam before Wal-Mart. I haven't been there in a while, and they have great gift ideas.<br />
3. All 3 girls have dentist appts. today. This will be Melanie's first time, and I'm praying that she doesn't act like Naomi did on her first appt.<br />
4. Drew and Mel will not get an actual naptime due to dentist appts. How much fun are they going to be this evening? They might surprise me.<br />
5. Need to tackle cleaning up our Master suite. It has become the catch all room since we finished the house. I desperately need to go through EVERYTHING!! <br />
6. We desperately need organizaton--bookshelves, diplay cabinets, picture frames, etc. But the money tree hasn't started sprouting, yet. :) Maybe someday it will.<br />
7. I need to get my Pre-Algebra class mapped for the coming school year. It seems like such a daunting task so I'm procrastinating like my life depends on it. :(<br />
8. Andy and I are going to watch Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 tonight in preparation for our date night tomorrow night!!<br />
9. Then of course, what's for dinner tonight?<br />
10. Just got a phone call from the dentist office--now to work out sitter arrangements for that. <br />
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The hits just keep on playing. It's never ending. Somehow God entrusted women with the ability to handle all of these things. I'm easily overwhelmed, but I rely on a faithful God to carry me through it all. I pray that I will accomplish all that He would have me to today, and to do it well. I'm ever thankful for His mercy, which is new every morning!Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-82596261340794333452011-07-06T11:51:00.002-06:002011-07-06T11:54:03.945-06:00Book Review: "Daddy Dates"The book, "Daddy Dates," by motivational leader Greg Wright gave great insight on how dads can establish a better relationship with their daughter(s). I chose this book because we have 3 girls, and I'm sure my husband empathizes with the author of this book. Greg Wright has 4 girls and even their family pet is a female. We have 3 girls, and both pets are females as well. Anyway...<br />
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This book was written in an easy-to-read format sparing the reader from big words that therapists and psychologists or other doctors/professionals would use. There is a wealth of practical advice provided within the pages of the book. Wright is very open and honest about the details of the dates he took his daughters on and their reactions.<br />
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My prayer is that both my husband and I have great relationships with our daughters. We want them to be able to talk to us about anything!! “Daddy Dates” has wonderful ideas on how we can do that, of course, it begins with us.<br />
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I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http: booksneeze®.com="">book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http: 16cfr255_03.html="" cfr="" nara="" waisidx_03="" www.access.gpo.gov="">: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-48803373753955887882011-06-29T17:17:00.000-06:002011-06-29T17:17:37.355-06:00Family Trip to St. Louis!!This summer our family took a trip to St. Louis. Andy and I had been debating on where to go for a family vacation this year, but had not decided for sure. Then he was asked to go to a conference in St. Louis on a Tuesday. So we decided to make it a long weekend by leaving the Saturday before...thus our trip to St. Louis. And we all had a blast!!!! We wore ourselves and friends out!! I've been recuperating today, and trying to get laundry done. :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oyfKDnMhu0k/Tguyiq5j9PI/AAAAAAAABQA/7LVZyUfqAmw/s1600/new%2Bpics%2Byet%2Bto%2Bbe%2Borganized%2B448.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oyfKDnMhu0k/Tguyiq5j9PI/AAAAAAAABQA/7LVZyUfqAmw/s320/new%2Bpics%2Byet%2Bto%2Bbe%2Borganized%2B448.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div>My BFF from college, Emily Jenkins and her family live in St. Louis, and they took us out on the town on Sunday. We started off at the St. Louis Zoo. It has been said that taking a picture with Phil the gorilla is a tradition so we did. Emily and I both have 4 kids--3 girls and a boy. Needless to say our little monkeys were right at home. :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dtzym9ejGvk/TguyjdLu6lI/AAAAAAAABQI/efwS5VB0mtE/s1600/new%2Bpics%2Byet%2Bto%2Bbe%2Borganized%2B450.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dtzym9ejGvk/TguyjdLu6lI/AAAAAAAABQI/efwS5VB0mtE/s320/new%2Bpics%2Byet%2Bto%2Bbe%2Borganized%2B450.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div>Emily and I had our pics taken, too. I'm sure Drew is wondering what on earth we are doing. :) You never can be sure when Emily and I get together. We had fun talking about other vacations our families should do together. Or...just leave the kids with the dads and she and I could get away. Hee hee! :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3rHv7kCIaLw/TguyjtPiN-I/AAAAAAAABQQ/MY422IfE1NQ/s1600/on%2Bthe%2BFerris%2BWheel.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3rHv7kCIaLw/TguyjtPiN-I/AAAAAAAABQQ/MY422IfE1NQ/s320/on%2Bthe%2BFerris%2BWheel.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div>On Monday we went to Six Flags. It had been stormy during the night before and most of the morning, but it turned out to be a great day to go. The crowds were super low, and Andy and the kids didn't have to worry about long waits for the roller coasters. Naomi wanted to ride the Ferris Wheel in the worst way. So here's one half of the family on one side of our caged ride...<br /><br /><br /><div style="MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vX_Xooo8G-o/Tguyjg4dJTI/AAAAAAAABQY/RyX-56gMTlE/s1600/new%2Bpics%2Byet%2Bto%2Bbe%2Borganized%2B519.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vX_Xooo8G-o/Tguyjg4dJTI/AAAAAAAABQY/RyX-56gMTlE/s320/new%2Bpics%2Byet%2Bto%2Bbe%2Borganized%2B519.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div>...and here's the other half! Yes, I sucked it up and rode the darn thing. I have a HUGE problem with heights!!! You can also tell it was a no make-up kind of day for me as well. Not my finest pic, but oh well. :)<br /><br />We were exhausted on our way home, but it was sooooo worth it. The kids loved it!!! <br /><br />Now, I would love to say that I will keep updating my blog, but I'm making no such promises. :) I have more pics I would like to post, though, so I guess we'll see. Till then...<div style='clear:both; text-align:CENTER'><a href='http://picasa.google.com/blogger/' target='ext'><img src='http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif' alt='Posted by Picasa' style='border: 0px none ; padding: 0px; background: transparent none repeat scroll 0% 50%; -moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial;' align='middle' border='0' /></a></div>Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-69366575375321658502011-02-12T09:32:00.006-06:002011-02-12T09:58:48.635-06:00Couples Who Pray by Squire Rushnell and Louise DuArt<a class="book" title="Request this book" href="http://www.booksneeze.com/blogger/request/9780785231967"></a><br />This was a well-written book about the power of prayer, especially when couples join together in prayer. Just when you thought the most intimate act between a couple was...well..sex, you are told quickly in the book that that is not the case. The most intimate act between a couple can and should be prayer. The book is divided into three sections, each one building on the other. The first section dives into the benefits of praying couples. Testimonials from celebrities as well as regular people are plentiful. The 40 day challenge is the second section, with factors during the forty days being the third section. The book also provides a couple of appendixis with extra information.<br /><br />I really liked this book. It was very easy to read, and I loved the plethora of testimonials sprinkled throughout the book. I'm also a recipe kind of girl. If you give me a recipe I will follow it to the letter. If you just throw ingredients at me you will not receive anything edible in return. This book provides a recipe for couples to follow if they want to add prayer to their lives. I think my favorite section was section 3 because there was a lot more practical information there letting you know what you could expect during and after the 40 days. I would love to add that my husband and I took the 40 day challenge and now we pray every single day, but I would be lying. I hope that one day we can get there. We did pray once together, and it lasted longer than 5 minutes. We didn't lock our door so it lasted till our 1 year old son came bouncing in. :) I think I need to challenge myself to do the 40 day challenge--even if it is by myself--and pray for God to give my husband the desire to make it a priority as well. As is the case with most families we are extremely busy--both spouses with full-time jobs, raising 4 kids, responsibilities in our own church, etc. The list could go on and on. If there is anytime that we need to be praying together it's now! I believe both my husband and I have the desire to have closer relationships with our heavenly Father and with each other. Often the hardest step is getting started.<br /><br />My recommendation would be to go out and get this book. Even if just one person has the desire to make prayer a higher priority I believe it could have huge effects. That's what I'm praying for my marriage. I pray that I will be able to update this post at a later time and sing the praises of how God has done miraculous things in our married life. He has already blessed us with so much already!Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-55971448002113336672010-12-28T20:24:00.002-06:002010-12-28T20:28:28.903-06:00Invasion by Jon LewisInvasion by J. S. Lewis is the first book in the C.H.A.O.S. series, a science fiction book about a boy's mission to uncover the scary truth about a huge company with some big secrets. <br /><br />This was a gripping teen sci-fi thriller that grabs a hold of you in the first chapter and never lets go. Even adult sci-fi fans will enjoy this easy read. I saw this as a mix between James Bond and Roswell, the book series. If they had books like this when I was a teenager, I probably would have read more.<br /><br />The only issue I had with Invasion was the unskilled teens continually fought and out smarted skilled adults. That didn't quite make sense to me. However I am looking forward to the second installment due in January 2012.Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-74852921524974729032010-12-08T09:17:00.002-06:002010-12-08T09:36:05.418-06:00Voices of the Faithful - Book 2I was excited to see a second book in the Voices of the Faithful 'series'. This is a devotional book with 365 readings and is for the person who has an interest in seeing the Christian experience from a missionary's viewpoint. Beth Moore wrote in her introduction that her goal is for the reader to: feel connected to brothers and sisters in Christ all over the globe, change your 'God bless the missionaries' prayer to praying for REAL people, be motivated to cross your river of fear and do the thing God has called you to do. This doesn't mean that we need to become a missionary to a foreign land but to be missionaries where we are!!<br /><br />One thing different with this book is that each month has a theme, ie. prayer, hope, lost and found, etc. Although I haven't read each day's reading, I am looking forward to seeing what God will work through in my life in regards to these themes. As I read through some of the stories, I couldn't help but be encouraged as I saw missionaries go through similar experiences that I was going through. And it is so uplifting to see God work in their lives and know that he can do the same here in the United States!! In fact, in my own small country church!!<br /><br />I definitely recommend this book to add to your daily Quiet Time readings for encouragement and the knowledge of community in our commission to spread the Good News.<br /><br />Note: I received this book free for an advance reading as part of their Booksneeze bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review and therefore, this review is 100% my own opinion.Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4756319663677543908.post-76626803925560309712010-10-21T12:04:00.003-06:002010-10-21T12:19:24.753-06:00Really Woolly Bible StoriesThis is a board book by Bonnie Rickner Jensen and is illustrated by Julie Sawyer Phillips. It is geared for ages 3-5 and tells several short Bible stories in poetic form. The pictures are illustrated with the Really Woolly characters which the little children love. The story/poem is on one side and the picture of the story is across the page. So it is wonderful to be able to read the poem to your youngster and have them able to look at the picture at the same time. The poem is just long enough to hold their attention and the fact that it is a board book means that it holds up to some sudden and ambitious page turning.<br /><br />I want to add that our 3 year old daughter loves it and is glad to have a Bible story book of her own. And I can have her hold it or carry it around and I don't have to be afraid of torn pages, etc. I would recommend this book as a sturdy addition to a preschooler's library.<br /><br />Note: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. This review is my own opinion.Lori Boydhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08422042285966769403noreply@blogger.com0