Sunrise on the Battery by Beth Webb Hart ~ A Contemporary Fiction Review

Sunrise on the Battery by Beth Webb Hart




Sunrise on the Battery
Beth Webb Hart
Contemporary Fiction

Book description:

At last, Mary Lynn and Jackson Scoville are living the life they've dreamed of. Two self-described "small town bumpkins" from Round O, South Carolina, they made a small fortune selling the little gems of lowcountry real estate Jackson inherited and now they are living in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, carefully working their way up the social ladder in hopes of meeting their ultimate goal: to give their three daughters the life they themselves never had.

But the long-forgotten God of Mary Lynn's childhood seems to be trying to get her attention in clear and unusual ways. So clear and strange she can no longer deny it. When Mary Lynn prays for Jackson to open his mind and heart to God, her prayers are answered beyond her wildest imaginings. Now Jackson's dramatic conversion (which includes street witnessing, giving away a lot of money, and inviting poor, desperate and marginalized people into their home) is threatening their social status as well as their family mission statement. Is she willing to go along with him?

What would it be like to go "all out" for God? Jackson, a sharp and focused Type A man, is unafraid and willing to go all the way. Mary Lynn has her doubts.


My thoughts:

I do believe I’ve found me a new favorite author! This is the first novel by Beth Webb Hart that I have read and I am impressed. I have been in love with the city of Charleston, SC for quite some time so that drew me to the book. The very real characters are what kept me reading.

This is a powerful story that is as old as time, yet told in a modern tale. We all struggle with balance in our lives and we see that come to life in these individuals. Mary Lynn longs for her family to join her in her Christian faith. But when that happens she realizes what she must give up and she struggles with it.

I thought Ms. Hart did a marvelous job of describing the true feelings that are involved in the situation. It’s easy to say I want to live for Christ, but doing it isn’t always a piece of cake. The Bible gives us examples of this over and over. Even the Pharisees struggled with this. They were righteous holy men that believed the Messiah was coming. Yet when the Messiah stood before them, they denied it was him. To follow him would mean giving up who they were and what they did. That is what this story is about. If Mary Lynn and Jackson go all in for God, who will they be? What will they be expected to give up for the cause of Christ?

As I was looking up some of Ms. Hart’s other work, I came across her last book, Love, Charleston. When I read the description I realized that there are some characters from that book that are background characters in Sunrise on the Battery. It seems to me that either book can be read as a stand-alone, but I’m definitely going back and reading the first one.



“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
Services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
With the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”


Shave Well Fogless Mirror



About Shave Well Fogless Mirror:

The Shave Well Company fog free shaving mirror is a result of trying to use a number of so-called fog free shower shave mirrors over the years and never being satisfied. I came to think there had to be a better way.

I used my years of shower shaving experience as a basis for what problems we needed to solve. In addition to my personal experiences, we wanted to know what other men thought about shaving. Through an independent consumer market research firm, we surveyed 154 men and asked about their shaving experiences. Interestingly, when it came to using a fog free shaving mirror, most were having the same issues I had:

The majority of shower mirrors are going to say they are fog free, but simply are not.

Some fog free mirrors became water spotted during normal use and required cleaning. This caused the fog free coating to be washed off and the end result was shaving mirror that was not fogless any more.

I tried one fog free mirror that was plumbed into the shower. It's hard to shave in a mirror that is mounted behind the shower spray. The mirror became so water spotted during use and as a result the reflection became so distorted that it was difficult to call it a mirror. Since it was plumbed into the shower, cleaning it was difficult as well.


I tried other fog free shower mirrors with various styles of a formed plastic casing around the edge. While these allegedly fog free mirrors had the same issues as noted above, they had a secondary problem. When the suction cups inevitably failed and the mirror came crashing down the plastic casing broke. Some grew mold around the edges when they couldn't be easily removed from the wall for cleaning.


To answer the above problems, we developed The Shave Well Company anti fog shaving mirror to be, by its simple design, a truly fog free shower shaving mirror . Easy to clean. Easy to use. One that does what it says it will do.


I encourage you to purchase The Shave Well Company fogless shower mirror. I am confident that you will find it to be all that it claims to be...truly fog free by its simple design. Easy to use. Easy to clean.

Bill Vogel, The Shave Well Company

Shave Well Fogless Mirror

Our thoughts:

I love a product that does what it says, is affordable, and safe around children. The Shave Well FoglessMirror is all those things. When I asked my hubby to review the mirror he was excited to try but he said he doubt it was truly fogless Mirror. He has had one before and was not impressed. After his shower he comes and says it worked but let’s see if it still works after several days. It did!


What I did not realize was how this little mirror was going to solve a marriage argument. You see hubby likes to shave at the bathroom mirror and then that leaves little whiskers EVERYWHERE! Well now I no longer have to pick little hairs out of my hairbrush because he now shaves in the shower. I am happy and hubby is happy! One other thing to note is that this mirror is lightweight and not easily broken. I have dropped it and little M has gotten it and it has survived! Hubby and I are completely satisfied with The Shave Well Company!


“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
Services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
With the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Softlips Limited Edition Flavors Review & Giveaway @ILoveSoftlips


My thoughts:
Winter has arrived so that means I am constantly putting on Chap Stick. I have to put Chap Stick on several times a day so I want good flavors. That is why I was so excited to review some of the seasonal flavors from Soft lips. For review I received Winter Mint, Sugar Cookie, Sugar & Spice and Sugar Plum Berry.
Softlips
I knew I would love the Winter Mint because it always soothing with chapped lips. I was also looking forward to trying some new flavors. The Sugar Plum Berry has become my newest favorite I have it in my purse so it is always with me.  The Sugar Cookie reminds me of warm vanilla and is very soothing. The Sugar and Spice is a lot like gingerbread and a great winter flavor. I love that all the flavors are moisturizing and SPF 20. They are also light weight and non greasy.
 

Jesus - The Reason For the Season by Rachel Hauck

12 Pearls of Christmas
Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!



Merry Christmas from all of us at Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoyed these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you missed a few posts, I hope you'll be able go back through and read them on this blog over the next few days. If you'd like to keep up with Pearl Girls and our new book project, Mother of Pearl, coming this spring, just click this link and sign up for our newsletter (lower left sidebar).

Also, just a reminder that today is the last day for the pearl necklace and earrings giveaway! Enter now by filling out this {form}. The winner will on 1/1 at the Pearl Girls blog.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***
Jesus -- The Reason For the Season

By: Rachel Hauck


Through the narrow scope of 2000 years, Mary, the mother of Jesus, appears to be one lucky woman. Chosen by God to give birth to His son, the Savior of the world? All right, Mary, way to go.


“Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you,” Gabriel said.


How many of us would like a declaration like that? Highly favored. The Lord is with you. But Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be.


The angel told her, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Mary’s seems confident and resolved when she responds, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.”


She’d just been told the Holy Spirit will come upon her, that God’s power will overshadow her, that she’d become with child even though she wasn’t married, and she said, “I’m the Lord’s servant. Let your words be true.”


I find this amazing! A young woman. Ancient Bethlehem. Unwed mother. They stoned women for such things in her day. But Mary believed in God. And submitted to His will. He gave her the Holy Spirit – the same Holy Spirit given to us. If He gave her confidence, He will give us confidence. Even though, like Mary, our situation seems impossible.


Listen to Mary’s song later on in the first chapter of Luke.


“My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me Holy is his name…”


Conceiving a child out of wedlock, by Divine intervention. Not a girl’s every day existence. Yet she had a Yes in her heart to God. She rejoiced. She boldly said, “Generations will remember me!”


How we struggle to trust God with our children. Our finances. Our emotional well-being. We worry. We fret. And wonder why we have no peace.


Christmas is the season where words like joy, peace and love are bantered around like Christmas candy. Let’s not take them as just words, but as truth. Let’s be like Mary and embrace God’s favor on our lives. Boldly declare "He’s done great things for me!”


Out of the grit of our own souls, we can reach His heart, and feel Him reaching for ours. No matter the pain of our past, present or future, God is there for us. He is able. Best of all, He is willing. “My soul glorifies the Lord this Christmas!”




***
Rachel Hauck is an award winning, best selling author who believes God has done great things for her. She lives in Central Florida with her husband and ornery pets. Her next release is Love Lifted Me with multi-platinum country artist Sara Evans, January 2012. Then in April, look for The Wedding Dress. www.rachelhauck.com.

The Panhandler's Breath By Robin Dance

12 Pearls of Christmas
Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!



Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.


AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.



***
The Panhandler's Breath

By Robin Dance

He slipped in sideways between the closing elevator doors, as if he were late to a meeting; he pressed the "5" without looking. Instead of suit and tie, though, baggy pants and faded navy hung on his tall, slim frame...and his stealth entry stiffened the hairs on the back of my neck.


I had noticed him a few seconds earlier, just after we had parted a sea of clamorous teens. He was smiling, grandfatherly, standing maybe 30 feet away where the electric shuttle picks up.

I had no idea he had been watching us, studying us, predator patiently awaiting his next prey.


The four of us were sealed in a four- by six-foot metal tomb. Tomb--that thought really scampered across my mind. I wondered if he had a knife in his pocket. I wanted to protect my son. Fight or flight pumped adrenaline but there was no where to run.

Extreme and ridiculous, these thoughts - and more - flashed through my mind. The Stranger began speaking.

"Yessir, I see you're a family man with your wife and your son here..." and he nodded in my and my son’s direction.

"...you see I'm homeless and all I've got..." and on queue, he reached into his left pocket and pulled out two old pennies blackened with age. Two cents to his name?! It was all too contrived, too practiced, and I didn't believe a word he was saying.

It was then I smelled it ~ the small space lent itself to that ~ and I doubted my doubt.

His breath.

It wasn't the scent of alcohol. His eyes weren't red, his voice didn't waver; his wizened face matched his graying hair.


His breath was morning's, zoo breath, the pet name I'd given to the scent inhaled when kissing my children awake when they were little.


He needed to brush his teeth. I wondered how long it had been since he brushed his teeth.

The elevator door opened and I handed him my leftover pizza as my son and I brushed past him. My husband handed him a bill and the Stranger thanked and God blessed him.

The elevator door closed behind us. Conflicted, I was relieved.

We got in the car and blurted first reaction--

"I didn't believe a word he said."

"That made me nervous."

"I wonder if he'll really eat the pizza."


In the quiet, we were left to our own thoughts, contemplating the right thing to do. At the end of the day, this is what I decided: It doesn't matter whether or not his story is true; for an old man to resort to begging, he has to be desperate. The money my husband gave him will never be missed. It was a reminder we've been entrusted with much and given much. Materially, yes, but more so spiritually. Loved, chosen, forgiven, redeemed, graced, lavished--every spiritual blessing. E v e r y.

There's a part of me that wishes I would have been brave enough to ask the man his story, made sure he knew he was loved...and bought him a tooth brush.


Later, it occurred to me he could have been an angel. Doesn’t that mean generosity, kindness and hospitality is always the right response? Then it's not about you or the stranger or the circumstance, it's about a simple, God-glorifying response.


Had we entertained an angel unaware? We'll never know.

But it wouldn't be the first time the Breath of Heaven smelled like a zoo.



***
In a decades-old, scandalous affair with her husband, Robin also confesses mad crushes on her three teens. As Southern as sugar-shocked tea, she’s a recovering people pleaser who advocates talking to strangers. A memoirist, Compassion International Blogger, and Maker-upper of words, Robin writes for her own site, PENSIEVE, and also for (in)courage by DaySpring (a subsidiary of Hallmark) and Simple Mom. She loves to get to know readers through their blog comments and on Twitter and Pinterest. www.pensieve.me

Inside Out Christmas by Debora M. Coty

12 Pearls of Christmas
Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!



Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.


AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.



***
Inside Out Christmas

by Debora M. Coty


My veterinarian friend, Dr. Katie, tells the story about the December when a woman brought a very sick black lab into her clinic. The dog was only ten months old, so she was really just a big puppy, but she’d been vomiting incessantly and her worried owner didn’t know what was wrong.


“Why don’t you go on home?” Dr. Katie told the owner. “I’ll need to run tests for about four hours. We’ll give you a call when we’re finished.”

Dr. Katie’s assistant took x-rays and hung them on the light panel for Dr. Katie to examine. Hmm. Something looked a little peculiar. Dr. Katie called her assistant over.

“Is it just me, or does that look like a … a camel to you?” she asked incredulously.

“Matter of fact, it does,” replied the astute assistant. “And look, there’s an angel here, a shepherd there, and down there in the colon, it’s Baby Jesus!”

At that moment the phone rang. It was the dog’s distraught owner. “I can’t believe this! I just got home and glanced at the coffee table where I put my manger scene yesterday. There’s nothing there but an empty stable!”

As I thought about this quite literal technique for internalizing the true meaning of Christmas, it occurred to me that sometimes I have the opposite problem. With all the bustling busyness, my inner joy in celebration of my savior’s birth never really makes it to the outside.

Oh, I have plenty of glittery, festive evidences of the holiday in decorations, baking galore, and gifts under my tree. But those things are for show. They’re merely the pretty wrappings, not the gift itself.

Can people really see the core-deep joy that radiates within me when I think of the true gift that Papa God sent the world in his son, Jesus? Is my immeasurable gratitude for eternal life evident as I dash through this hectic season?

I’m afraid all too often, the answer is no.

I’m just too preoccupied to allow my outside to reflect my inside so that nonbelievers recognize that I rejoice because of the hope that is within me. My joy is obscured by the mounds of clutter. Gratefulness is sucked out of my soul by the vacuum called urgency.


“But let the godly rejoice. Let them be glad in God’s presence. Let them be filled with joy” (Psalm 68:3, NLT).

This verse has become my prayer this Christmas season – that I would make the time to give priority to rejoicing, being glad in God’s presence, and letting my inner joy show for those who may be silently desperate to know the giver of true joy.

Yep, there’s a better way to internalize the gift of Christmas than the black lab technique. We can lodge the Little Lord Jesus in our hearts rather than our colons.


***
Debora M. Coty is a humorist, inspirational speaker, and award-winning author of twelve books, including Too Blessed to be Stressed, and coming in March, More Beauty, Less Beast: Transforming Your Inner Ogre. Debora would love to swap Christmas hugs with you at www.DeboraCoty.com.


Simple or Sparkle by Tracey Eyster

12 Pearls of Christmas
Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!



Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.


AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.



***
Simple or Sparkle?

by Tracey Eyster


It’s a simple ornament made of thin cheap metal and it looks quite out of place on our CHRISTmas tree. But each year I lovingly and safely nestle it amongst its expensive and sparkly peers, without a care as to how unglamorous it appears.


Many of our CHRISTmas ornaments have a story and an uncanny way of welling up emotion in me, but this certain one causes an intense stir.


You see the ornament is engraved with the name of my grandmother, Sara, and was given to me by my mother, who ordered it from Hospice, after Grandmama’s death. Yes, the months leading up to her death carry memories of a frail and failing grandmama, but that ornament carries my thoughts to sweet CHRISTmas memories of the past.


CHRISTmas Eve dinners in her home, laughing, singing, gathering and celebrating a year filled with blessings as we remembered the birth of our Savior. CHRISTmas mornings, she was always there participating with glee, in our raucous CHRISTmas happiness. Her gifts were always bank envelopes gently tucked into the pine needles of our CHRISTmas tree, fresh cut from the property she grew up on.


All memories of my Grandmama make my heart swell. You see she was my Jesus with skin on. She lived her life full of joy, serving others and approached life selflessly with an attitude of, “What can I do for you?”


Just months before she left us, even as the Alzheimer’s was robbing her mind she shared her love of Jesus with a sweet little old lady friend, who came to know the Lord – a divine appointment.  The very next day that little old lady silently slipped away to meet in person the One Sara introduced her to just the day before.


At the time I wept, realizing that regardless of our own frailties and failings, God can still use those of us who are willing to do His work and are well practiced at hearing His voice...no matter our lack of sparkle in comparison to others.


A simple life lived for Him, a simple ornament in memory of Sara...a simple truth for you to ponder.



***
Tracey Eyster wife, mom, relationship gatherer and Creator/Editor of FamilyLife’s MomLife Today is a media savvy mom making a difference where moms are, on-line. Through speaking, writing and video interviews Tracey is passionate about encouraging, equipping and advising moms on every facet of momlife. Her first book, Be The Mom will be released August 2012. You can connect with Tracey at www.momlifetoday.com, her personal site www.traceyster.com or www.twitter/momblog.com.

#ChristmasGiftGuide Review for Hickory Farms @HickoryFarms

Hickory Farms
About Hickory Farms:

Make any holiday celebration one to remember with gourmet Christmas food gifts from Hickory Farms. Our selection of gourmet gift baskets are filled with fresh, quality ingredients, so you or your gift recipients can enjoy treats that taste great. Our company has been committed to providing rich, savory Christmas food gifts since 1951 by offering personalized service and accessible ways to order our products for friends across the street or family away on military leave. Choose from a wide variety of our well-known Thanksgiving gift baskets that include gourmet sausage, cheeses, sweets, nuts and more. Our Christmas gift baskets let your loved ones know how much you appreciate them. Plus, Christmas food gifts include our award-winning spiral sliced HoneyGold Ham for holiday dinners to dried fruits, mustards and crackers for party appetizers. Order gourmet food gift baskets online from Hickory Farms throughout the year to help you celebrate the special people and moments in your life.

Our thoughts:
Hickory Farms

For our review we were sent the Warm & HeartyWelcome.
-Our Signature Beef Summer Sausage 7 oz.
-Turkey Summer Sausage 7 oz.
-Farmhouse Cheddar 8 oz.
-Mission Jack Blend 4 oz.
-Three Cheese & Onion 4 oz.
-Sweet Hot Mustard 2.25 oz.
Hickory Farms

Our favorite of course was the Signature Beef Summer Sausage! It is the best beef summer sausage you can get! We also loved all the cheeses and sweet hot mustard. We have been using the sweet hot mustard on our sandwiches too. The only thing we were not fans of was the turkey summer sausage. Next time we will just stick with the beef and buy a bigger size!
The best part about Hickory Farms is that you can find their products sold at Wal-Mart for the last minute gift or party food! We are going to take advantage of this and get some beef summer sausage for our holiday parties!
There is still time to buy on line for Affordable Christmas Gift Baskets!
*For Christmas Delivery, please select 2nd Day Delivery by 3pm EST 12/21 or Overnight Delivery by 3pm EST 12/24. 2nd Day and Overnight Delivery to PO Boxes is not available.
GIVE BACK:
Support Share Our Strength’s® No Kid Hungry Campaign™
The PartyPlanner Gift Box ($45) is Our Signature Party Planner gift is a flavorful array of our savory Summer Sausage and smooth and creamy cheeses with all the trimmings. With every one sold this year, we will donate $5 to Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry ® Campaign.
GIVE AROUND THE WORLD:
Free shipping to military APO/FPO addresses on products listed below
Select gifts are eligible for free military shipping, such as the Warm and Hearty Welcome, the Summer Sausage and Cheese and the Home for the Holidays gift box, each featuring Our Signature Summer sausage and Hickory Farms’ new, smooth and creamy Farmhouse Cheddar.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
Services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
With the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Enjoy the Ride! by Susan May Warren

12 Pearls of Christmas
Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!



Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.


AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.



***
Enjoy the Ride!

Susan May Warren

We sit poised on the top of a cliff, a near drop off before us, that falls to a rushing river. In the middle, a bridge of snow and ice hints at our destination. My husband guns the snowmobile engine. “Ready?”


Ready? For a face plant into a tree, maybe reconstructive surgery? To feel my stomach ripped from my body as we plummet down the mountain? Let’s do it!


We live on five acres of woods in northern Minnesota that butts up to a national forest. Hence, our backyard is about a hundred thousand acres. Aside from harboring deer, lynx, fox, cougar and bear, it also makes excellent snowmobile terrain. And not long ago, Mrs. Claus gave her Santa a snowmobile for two.


I love snowmobiling. Flying over the snow, catching air over drifts. I love to drive, to be at the helm of the beast as I weave around trees and over hill and dale, my husband sitting behind me. I also love riding behind my husband as he drives, feeling those powerful arms as he’s muscling the snowmobile into the wilds. We follow unknown trails, driven by a Magellan spirit, hoping that we have enough gas to get us back to civilization. I love hanging on, simply trusting him, knowing that wherever he’s taking me, he’s going first.


But there are times, when I see where he’s taking me, and I just have to bury my head in his back. Like straight down a cliff.


However, my heart cheers, despite the terror as we gun it down the hill, over the river, up the opposite side. And, if we hadn’t let ourselves go, we would have never discovered the beauty of a winter river, a hidden jewel buried deep in the forest. Nor the exhilaration of facing the challenge together.


Further on, we find an enchanted forest of towering white pine. Catch a view of Lake Superior, discover an old cabin in the woods.


It occurs to me that snowmobiling is much like my spiritual life. Occasionally, I drive, and it’s me setting our course, weaving through the trees, getting us hopelessly lost. But when God takes the “wheel” and I hang on, trusting Him for the speed and destination, I see the scenery. I trust him to keep me safe. I trust him to bring me home, where there is an eternal supply of hot chocolate.


As Christmas season becomes more hectic, what if I let God drive?  Maybe everything doesn’t have to be perfect, and maybe I don’t have to control every tradition, every holiday nuance. What if I just held on for the ride?

I’ll bet I’ll still get there, and I might even enjoy the scenery along the way.

How have you let go, and “enjoyed” the scenery of this hectic, exhilarating Christmas season?

Merry Christmas!



***
Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning author of thirty novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill and Summerside Press.  A four-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.  A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!.  She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.

Duraflame Firelogs




About Duraflame Gold Fire Logs:
Now the duraflame® brand brings you the ultimate fire log experience with duraflame Gold. Specially formulated for ultra-premium quality, duraflame Gold Fire Logs produce the biggest, brightest flames for the longest duration. Make every occasion perfect with a duraflame Gold Fire Log.
Available in 7lb, lasting over 4 hours, and 4.5lb, lasting over 3 hours
Made with 100% renewable resources
Burns cleaner than wood
Single logs and 4-log case
UL approved safety classification for use in UL-listed factory built fireplaces
Chimney Safety Institute of America Accepted Product

Duraflame Firelogs

Our thoughts:
We were sent the Gold series fire logs for our review. Before we put it in our fireplace I was thinking it would be more of a starter log. However we did not have to add another log until four hour later. The other thing that was surprising was the smell. When duraflame sent us a log the box it came in smelled nice and woodsy. It also smelled wonderful the whole time the log was burning.
Duraflame Firelogs

   
This is a photo of the log at two and a half hours still burning strong! If you have someone on your list that has a fireplace duraflame logs would be the perfect gift.
I really want to try their color logs.  I think the color log would be so fun for our Christmas party or for new years. You can also print coupons for duraflame logs to help you save money this holiday season!
Duraflame Firelogs

Giveaway for Duraflame Gold Fire Logs:
Right now duraflame has a promotion where you can win a year’s supply of Gold fire logs! Just head over to their website to enter.
You can also enter their Facebook giveaway. I blogged about it here.


"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or Services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance With the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Family Traditions: A Glimpse into Christmas Future by Tricia Goyer

12 Pearls of Christmas
Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!



Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.


AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.



***
Family Traditions: A Glimpse into Christmas Future

by Tricia Goyer

Have you ever thought about family traditions? As I helped my 1-year-old place ornaments on the Christmas tree this year I imagined her doing the same thing with her children—and maybe even grandchildren—one day. Traditions are beliefs and customs handed down through generations. By sharing meaningful moments with your kids you're sending yourself into the future. How amazing is that?


Sharing family traditions cause us to slow down from the busy, adult world for a while. We ignore the laundry to set out the nativity set with our kids. We set aside time in our schedules to drive around and look at Christmas lights.


Holiday traditions aren't only fun, they also help strength family bonds. Through traditions kids trust in the security of family unit. They think, “This is our family and this is what I do.” Of course, the most important thing to share isn't just what we do ... but why. Why do we put out a nativity? To remind us the real meaning of the season—Jesus coming to earth. What do the Christmas lights represent displayed on homes and on trees? They represent the Light of the World, Jesus.


Using traditions to bond our families and share our faith isn't new. I love these two Scriptures that talk about that very thing.

Exodus 12:25 says, “When you enter the land that the LORD will give you as he promised, observe this ceremony.”

Psalm 78:4 says, “We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.”


What are you're traditions? Here are a few of ours:

Baking a Birthday cake for Jesus

Buying a new ornament every year for each child

Acting out the Christmas story (with props!)

Praying together before opening presents


What are your traditions? Write a list and appreciate them in a new way this year. Then ask, “If I could add one new tradition this holiday season, what would it be?” I'd love to hear what you choose! It also makes me smile to think of your children's grandchildren doing the same.



***
Tricia Goyer is a CBA best-selling author and the winner of two American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Awards (Night Song and Dawn of a Thousand Nights). She co-wrote 3:16 Teen Edition with Max Lucado and contributed to the Women of Faith Study Bible. Also a noted marriage and parenting writer, she lives with her husband and children in Arkansas. www.triciagoyer.com

The Wonder Forge Games Review



  
About Wonder Forge:

Wonder Forge and its preschool sub-brand I Can Do That! Games™ offer brain challenging fun for the whole family—with preschool games that celebrate the "can do" in every kid, and family games that bridge generation gaps and build bonds.

The Wonder Forge takes an innovative approach to licensing, bringing cherished literary classics and award-winning television shows to life in a whole new way through dynamic, inventive game play.

See our complete list of partners here.

Today Wonder Forge makes 50 games for all ages, sold nationwide and in four countries. Our games have received more than 80 of the industry's top awards for product excellence.

Our thoughts:
Wonder Forge Games

We have decided to home school our Little M, I had been searching for Preschool games when I came across The Wonder Forge. I had never heard of Wonder Forge before and was thrilled that they carried some of Little M’s favorite TV characters. We were able to review the Busy, Busy Airport, Chuggington, and Angelina Ballerina.

All games were perfect for the preschool level. Our favorite has to be the Busy, Busy Airport. I love that this game allows for creativity and imagination. I love watching Little M play and pretend to be flying passengers around.
Angelina Ballerina Dance with Me

These games can be bought at Wal-Mart, Target, Amazon, Barns and Noble, and many other places. You can also watch videos of these games to see if they would fit with your child.

donation

 
Donation:

Normally this is the part where we host a giveaway. However this time we did something a little different. The Wonder Forge graciously donated a game to a charity of our choice! As many of you know there is a great need this holiday season. One of our bloggers had just gone to a conference and was introduced to MBCH. We choose to donate Busy, Busy Airport game and some other itemes needed to MBCH. It is a charity we can trust and having seen what they do we were thrilled to donate such a great game. Many, many thanks to The Wonder Forge for allowing us to donate a game this holiday season!


If you would also like to donate to MBCH you can go here for a list of needs!



 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
Services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
With the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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Remember: the promo code is "
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Let The Baby Grow Up This Christmas by Shellie Rushing Tomlinson

12 Pearls of Christmas
Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!



Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.


AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.



***
Let The Baby Grow Up This Christmas

By Shellie Tomlinson


When I was a little girl, Christmas seemed to take forever to make its way back to our little house on the end of a dirt road called Bull Run in northeast Louisiana. We kids started counting down the days before the leaves ever began turning. Sure, the adults said it came once a year but I wasn't so sure. Once Santa Claus left our humble abode it seemed like light years before he found his way back to the Delta.


That was a child's perspective. I imagine it hasn't changed all that much for today's kids. On the other hand, I'm operating under a completely different time frame these days. It seems like it was just yesterday when I pulled the boxes down from the attic and began pulling out the nativity scene, the miniature lights, and the keepsake ornaments. And now, just that fast-- Christmas Day is right around the corner. Soon the tree will be striped naked and the piled up presents will all be distributed. After a few more day it'll be hard to remember who got what from whom, and once again, I'll start packing all the decorations away for another year.


I was thinking about how bare and cold the house always looks after the holidays when I realized that, sadly, this  scene would play itself out in many hearts as well. A lot of people will have had expectations that weren't filled and many of those same souls will be left with hurts that don't seem to heal. Unless this year is remarkably different from past seasons, my bet is, the New Year will bring magazines full of articles on combating depression and the talk shows will have experts on offering ways to fill the long days ahead and cure the winter blues.


I'm no expert, dear readers, but I'd like to offer you a suggestion that will go far beyond the creature comforts of a nice warm bath or a delicious bowl of hot soup. Your heart doesn't have to be bare and naked after the holidays. Do you want to know the real secret? It's simple, really. Don't pack up Christ with Christmas! As beautiful and special as the Christmas story is, it's only a part of heaven's miracle. The Christ child grew into a man and the man became a Savior.


This year, may we be determined to let the babe from Bethlehem live on in our hearts. If we'll allow Him to become the Messiah He was born to be, the joy of Christmas can be ours all year long.




***
Shellie Rushing Tomlinson is an author, speaker, and radio host from Louisiana. Her latest release Sue Ellen's Girl Ain't Fat, She Just Weighs Heavy was endorsed by Jeff Foxworthy as "laugh out loud funny!" You can find Shellie's weekly southern features, podcasts, video chats and more at http://www.allthingssouthern.com/ Make sure to get by the blog  and read about the Super Christmas Giveaway Shellie is hosting for her readers and secure your chance to win a Mort Kunstler print valued between $700 and $1400. www.allthingssouthern.com

The Snowflake Party by Deborah Raney

12 Pearls of Christmas
Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas!



Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.


AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.


If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.


***
The Snowflake Party 

By Deborah Raney


The first snow of winter hasn’t fallen yet, but in our kitchen tonight we’re doing a pretty good imitation. The whole family is circled around the huge old oak table. The snip, snip, snip of scissors is background music as tiny scraps of white paper float down, making our floor look like a giant brownie sprinkled with powdered sugar.


Tonight has turned out to be the night for our annual Snowflake Party, a tradition that began when our children were toddlers. There has never been a date blocked out in red on our calendar, but one day we wake up and the brisk autumn air has turned bitter cold. Naked tree branches trace their stark calligraphy on a dull grey sky and we need a taste of the joyful promises of Christmas and snow. It’s the perfect time for a party.


On such a day, one of the kids will fly in the back door, fresh home from school, and declare “Hey, Mom! Tonight would be a good night for the Snowflake Party!” First we round up every pair of scissors in the house. This is one time when sharing is not a virtue. While the kids search for scissors, I cut white paper into squares and fold them caddy-corner multiple times. The resulting triangles are artfully arranged in a basket, awaiting the beginning of the party.


Later, while the supper dishes dry on the counter, I recruit a volunteer to help me stir up a big pot of hot cocoa. For the next hour it will warm on the back burner, tantalizing us with its aroma.


Now the fun begins with careful cutting and snipping, shaping plain white paper into intricate works of art. Each snowflake we create seems as unique and spectacular as the genuine variety created by God himself. As each masterpiece is unfolded, collective oohs and aahs go up.


When the last dregs of our creative juices are drained, Dad oversees the vacuum patrol while I pour cocoa into generous mugs. We spread our handiwork on the floor around us and sit, quietly admiring our work while we dunk marshmallows and sip rich chocolate.


With empty mugs piled up in the sink, it’s time for the judging to begin. There will be awards for ‘prettiest’, ‘most unusual’, and as many other categories as we need for everyone to be a winner. Dad is the judge because he studied art in college. He also usually wins one of the top prizes––because he studied art in college.


Snowflakes deemed runners-up might be pasted in scrapbooks or hung on the refrigerator. A few even “melt” into the trash that very night. But the winners are taped proudly to the picture windows in the living room for passersby to enjoy while they long for the day when genuine snowflakes will color the world clean and white.


Our oldest daughter went away to college last September. She called just after Thanksgiving to tell me that her dorm window was covered with snowflakes. No, not the real thing, but the ones she remembers from her childhood––paper ones that she spent an entire evening cutting and snipping while sipping hot cocoa.


That’s the neat thing about traditions: They go with us no matter how far from home we travel.



***
DEBORAH RANEY's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title. Her books have since won the RITA Award, ACFW Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, National Readers' Choice Award, Silver Angel, and have twice been Christy Award finalists. After All, third in her Hanover Falls Novels series will release next spring from Howard/Simon & Schuster. Deb and her husband, Ken Raney, enjoy small-town life in Kansas. Their four children are grown now and having snowflake parties with their own children––and they all live much too far away. Visit Deb on the web at www.deborahraney.com.

Cookie Making and Giveaway with King Arthur Flour





About King Arthur Flour:



Business is about relationships:
learn about our recipe for success.


Why choose King Arthur Flour?
There are four major qualities that set us apart from our larger competitors, enabling us to outpace them, the industry, and the overall economy.
  1. First, we have an earned respect. There is a sense that our enterprise is special in what it stands for, what it does, and how we do it. This shows itself in the uncommon efforts and contributions - not only from those who work here, but also those with whom we work.
  2. Second, we have honest enthusiasm that spills over to those with whom we do business - from current and prospective employees, to customers and suppliers.
  3. Third, we have a culture of inclusiveness. We communicate just about everything to everyone in our organization, empowering them as partners in our endeavor. Strategies, plans, ambitions, and challenges aren't restricted to small circles behind closed doors - they're known, understood, and appreciated throughout our company.
  4. Fourth, making money in itself is not our highest priority. We view profit and wealth-creation as inevitable byproducts of doing things well.

Our thoughts:

Every year we bake cookies to take to our family, friends, and neighbors. It is a fun tradition that includes the whole family. That is why I was so excited to review King Arthur Flour's Vanilla Sugar Cookie Mix and Perfect Decorating Set.

King Arthur Flour


I was not expecting much from the sugar cookie mix. I just wanted it be a quicker way to make our Christmas sugar cookies while still tasting good. Last year I made our sugar cookies from scratch and they ended up being hard and salty. So I was thrilled when I took a bite of the King Arthur Sugar Cookie and it was moist and lightly sweetened. Yum!!


King Arthur Flour


King Arthur Flour

Little M and Ramble Sam made the mix the night before then let the cookie mix sit overnight in the refrigerator. The next day I pulled the cookie mix out and let it sit for about five minutes before rolling it out. The cookies rolled out quickly and came out nice and thick.

King Arthur Flour



Little M had a lot of fun with the cookies and ended up making quite the mess. Oh the holidays!

King Arthur Flour


We loved the Perfect decorating kit! The frosting was perfect. I will have to buy this every year now. I would really like to try using this frosting for gingerbread houses. Little M loved having his frosting colored blue. I loved how it made a lot of frosting and we had some left over even after making several different colors and Little M sneaking some. Even though these items were prepackaged they were just as good as making if from scratch. If I ever move to Vermont King Arthur Flour is a company I would love to work for. Until then I will just buy their incredible products!


King Arthur Flour


Some of our cookies! (Remember Little M is only three.) We had lots of fun and many thanks to King Arthur Flour for letting us review some of their amazing products!

Connect with King Arthur Flour:

· Get help with all your holiday baking challenges from the experts on our year-round Baking Hotline
· Get step-by-step instructions for your most delicious baking through our Baking Banter blog or one of over 2,000 free recipes online
· Learn more about our flours, our commitment to quality, and why you get so much more with King Arthur Flour
· Attend a baking class or demo here in Norwich or on the road
· Find out how to bring the free Life Skills Bread Baking Program to middle-school students in your community
· Join our online community, The Baking Circle
· Learn more about our Social Responsibility efforts, employee-ownership, and the farmers who grow our wheat
· Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
· Sign up for special offers through our e-newsletter


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
Services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
With the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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