Review of a The Woodcarver and a Chance to Score a Complimentary Copy!

Ever watch Cheers? Cliff Clavin is always spouting out random, useless trivia.  Wouldn't it be cool to have seen him share about the most important thing ever?  By that I'm talking about following Jesus.  Well, John Ratzenberger, who played Cliff Clavin, does just that in this great new movie, The Woodcarver.  


My family and I recently watched this movie as I got a complimentary copy from propeller so I could write up this review.  Keep reading to find out how you, too, can win a complimentary copy of this movie.  

About the Movie:

Matthew Stevenson is a troubled kid from a broken home. When he vandalizes the local church to get back at his parents, Matthew has to repair the damage to the church to avoid criminal charges. While working at the church, he meets Ernest (John Ratzenberger), an accomplished wood carver who created the intricate woodwork decoration that Matthew destroyed. Ernest has become something of a hermit, but reluctantly comes out of reclusion to help repair the church. Now Ernest and Matthew must work together to preserve the church's beautiful antiquity, and along the way, they also manage to restore their faith in God and in life.

My Thoughts:

We all loved this movie.  I especially loved John Ratzenberger's portrayal of Ernest, the woodcarver.  I think he had the most well-developed character in the whole film.  I wish he lived in my neighborhood.  I could think of a few of my own kids who'd I'd like him to befriend!  LOL  What I loved about the movie is that it is a good story, with a great message, but it doesn't come across as preachy.  Some Christian movies just seem so contrived.  (Though I have to say, they are getting better.)  I think having a well known face, and voice, makes it more marketable to a wider audience.  (So here's some Cliff Clavin-like trivia for you:  John Ratzenberger voices a character in every Pixar film ever made!)

I didn't find myself as endeared to the rest of the characters as I did to Earnest, but I could understand where they were coming from.  Today's society has really messed up family life!  We could make life a lot simpler if we all just learned to ask ourselves this simple question, What would Jesus do? As three people, all pretty much absorbed in their won selfish desires learn to ask this question, life takes a turn for the better.  Even Earnest learns a few things.  I highly recommend this movie!

Now for the giveaway rules.   Please read them CAREFULLY as I don't seem to be explaining them well enough.  LOL  

Leave a comment.  Tell me your favorite Christian movie to get one entry.  

Want more entries?  Here are five more ways you can enter, for a total of six ways to enter! :)

Take my poll in the sidebar, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST letting me know you did. (If you've already taken the poll, just let me know in a comment, and I will still count it as an additional entry.)

Follow me on facebook, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me on Twitter, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect or Linky Followers, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (See sidebar. If you already subscribe, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in The Crazy House. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win, or I'll have to draw another winner. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to six entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, April 1, 2012. The winner will be chosen on Monday, April 2, 2012 or sometime soon after.

 “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.”

Happy movie watching!!!

Check out Miami Vineyard Live and Maybe Even Get a Complimentary Copy!

The good folks at propeller have sent me a complimentary Miami Vineyard Live CD so I could check it out and let you know my thoughts.  Before I do, check out the info below to see what the company has to say.  Then keep on reading because propeller has an extra complimentary copy that they will send one of my lucky readers.  Or should I say blessed readers.  :)

About Miami Vineyard LIVE:

What happens when a group of 20+ musicians and 10+ songwriters steeped deep in their own musical traditions of Black Gospel, Latin, Caribbean, and Anglo come together to create a new tradition and sound? What happens when the fusion of Black, Anglo, Latino, Caribbean, and Cuban voices unite together to worship in one voice? Among the 2000 people that attend the Miami Vineyard Community Church, there are over a hundred singers, instrumentalists and songwriters that make up its eclectic worship ministry. For one night, these musicians joined together in worship and invited the church to document the sound that is uniquely MIAMI VINEYARD LIVE.

This distinctive bi-lingual liturgy is filled with many flavors, from Latino claves to gospel two-step to funk and soul to delay-laden rock guitars of modern worship, yet they all work together seamlessly to create a new sound and voice that is authentic and refreshing. From anthems of praise and proclamation to songs of intimacy and adoration, there is a common thread running deep throughout this recording and that is true worship of the Living God as an expression of His Kingdom breaking in on the streets and beaches of Miami, FL.

My thoughts:

Okay, time to play "True Confessions."  I didn't really think much of this CD the first time I played it.  While I love all kinds of music, there is pretty much one style of worship music I tend to listen too.  Call me old and stuck in my ways, but that's the truth.  I did enjoy "How Great is Our God," because it is a song I'm familiar with. and the Vineyard version isn't all that different than the versions I am used to.  However, my kids are not at all old and stuck in their ways, and they started playing the CD over and over.

A funny thing happened!  Suddenly, as I heard the songs played repeatedly, I got to know them.  I found myself singing along.  (My apologies to my family.)  Then, the other day, when the kids put in on to make cleaning a bit more fun, they started to dance around the living room.  I found myself dancing too!  Now the CD has totally grown on me, and I find it a wonderful way to worship God and even have some fun at the same time!  I recommend that you check it out!

Website: http://www.vineyardmusic.com/vm/miami-live

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/miamivineyardLIVE

Purchase: http://www.vineyardresources.com/equip/content/miami-vineyard-live-cd

Video: http://vimeo.com/28995392

Now for the giveaway rules.   Please read them CAREFULLY as I don't seem to be explaining them well enough.  LOL  

Leave a comment.  Tell me who your favorite worship artist is to get one entry.  

Want more entries?  Here are five more ways you can enter, for a total of six ways to enter! :)

Take my poll in the sidebar, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST letting me know you did. (If you've already taken the poll, just let me know in a comment, and I will still count it as an additional entry.)

Follow me on facebook, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me on Twitter, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect or Linky Followers, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (See sidebar. If you already subscribe, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in The Crazy House. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win, or I'll have to draw another winner. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to six entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, April 1, 2012. The winner will be chosen on Monday, April 2, 2012 or sometime soon after.

Good luck!

 “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.”

Happy worshipping!!!  

Awesome Deals at Kroger! Plus win a $25 Gift Card!

Kroger is getting ready to have some really great deals, so I decided to pass the info along to you.  And what's better than getting something at a really good price?  Getting something free!  Would you like to win a $25 Kroger card?  Find out how at the bottom of this post. 

Here's the info I was sent from Kroger:

Get ready for the Cart Buster Savings Event exclusively at Kroger and the Kroger Co. Family of Stores. You´ll see Big Savings Storewide on some of your favorite brands! And look out for some special offers and coupons only available at the Kroger Co. Family of Stores, and only available for this event!

Beginning the week of February 26th, 2012, shop the Kroger Co. Family of Stores biggest-ever promotion and find the hottest prices around on more than 35 brands, across more than 60 categories from General Mills, P & G, Pepsi, Nestle, Kraft and Kroger Banner Brands. During the Cart Buster Savings Event, you´ll find great savings in almost every department at the Kroger Family of Stores, which includes:   Kroger, Ralph´s, King Soopers, City Market, Dillon´s, Smith´s Fry´s, QFC, Baker´s, Owen´s, Jay C Food Stores, Hilander Gerbes, Food4Less, Pay Less Super Markets, and Scott´s Food & Pharmacy.

Check your local store to confirm the exact dates for your Cart Buster Savings Event.

Here are just a handful of the great brands participating in the event:

Cheerios

Lucky Charms

Pillsbury

Betty Crocker

Hamburger Helper

Yoplait

Progresso

Totino´s

Green Giant

Cascadian Farm Tide

Charmin

Bounty

Pampers

Pantene

Crest

Iams

Febreze

Old Spice

Bounce Pepsi

Ruffles

Quaker

Tostito´s

Rice A Roni

Tropicana

Stacy´s

Sobe

Mountain Dew

Gatorade

Looking for even more ways to save time and money? Visit CartBuster.com beginning 2/26/12 to find money-savings digital coupons, shopping lists and more. And starting 2/29/12 you can participate in the "Deal of the Day"! How does the Deal of the Day work?

•During seven days of the Cart Buster Savings Event, 2/29/12 - 3/6/12, there will be a super hot, exclusive offer good on one participating Cart Buster item. Each offer will be exclusive and available for one-day only - but the offer will be good for the duration of the entire event.


•You´ll see savings of up to and over 50% with the Deal of the Day offers - maybe even some freebies - and that´s on top of the already-low, low prices that Cart Buster has to offer!

•Look for seven days of "Deal of the Day offers" beginning 2/29/12. The Last Deal of the Day offer will be up on 3/6/12. But don´t fret - the Cart Buster event will continue even after the Deal of the Day ends. Check your local store for the exact end date for the Cart Buster Savings Event.

Check out the widget in my sidebar!!! 

Now for the $25 Kroger giveaway rules.   Please read them CAREFULLY as I don't seem to be explaining them well enough.  LOL  

Leave a comment.  Tell me what you'd buy at Kroger with the $25 gift card.  

Want more entries?  Here are five more ways you can enter, for a total of six ways to enter! :)

Take my poll in the sidebar, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST letting me know you did. (If you've already taken the poll, just let me know in a comment, and I will still count it as an additional entry.)

Follow me on facebook, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me on Twitter, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect,and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner, and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. . (See sidebar. If you already subscribe, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in The Crazy House. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win, or I'll have to draw another winner. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to six entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, March 4, 2012. The winner will be chosen on Monday, March 5, 2012 or sometime soon after.

 “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.”

The Kroger Family of Stores gift card, information, and giveaway were all provided by the Kroger Family of Stores and General Mills/Nestle/Proctor & Gamble/Pepsi/Kraft through MyBlogSpark.

New Review and Giveaway from MyBlogSpark: Gevalia Coffee!!!

Psst...  Please take the poll in my sidebar!  Pretty please.  :)

Gevalia Kaffe is much more than your average `cup of joe.´ It´s a Swedish-style break from the usual coffee grind. Perfected by the Swedes´ passion for quality coffee for more than 150 years, Gevalia is an exquisitely rich smooth coffee experience that is never bitter. Gevalia isn´t just coffee, it´s `Kaffe´ to savor.

As part of the MyBlogSpark blogger program, I was blessed to recieve two samples of Gevalia coffe and a nice coffee Gevalia mug!  And guess what?  You can get two samples and a mug too!  (BTW, when I say samples, these are not small bags.)  Directions for the contest appear at the bottom of this post. 

Okay, I must 'fess up, I won't actually be giving my own opinion, but a friend's.  You see, as you know, this is The Crazy House.  In The Crazy House things are broken on a regular basis.  Not long ago my youngest son, Baber, was putting the pot from my coffee maker in the kitchen and he dropped it and broke it.  Sooo....  I was unable to personally make this coffee at home.  So, I did the next best thing.  I took it to our homeschool co-op.

Well, since the coffee is made early, it was too late to make it this past week, so I couldn't taste it there, either.  So, I did the next, next best thing.  I offered up the second bag to the first person who would offer to test it out for me.  Here's where the beautiful and talented Pamela comes in.  Her dh is a coffee lover and she took it home for him to try.  Here are her exact words:

"We really enjoyed this coffee. I liked how the packaging was easy to open, something I rarely find in coffee bags. Aroma was excellent, of course, and the coffee itself tasted really good. I would definitely purchase it. The one thing I'd say is that the bag I tried was labeled "medium" roast, but it seemed much stronger than a typical medium blend to me. All in all great coffee though. I'll just use less from now on."

Wow, this girl knows what she is talking about, I didn't even know what medium roast meant!  LOL  I understand regular and decaf, and flavored and non-flavored.  I'm not exactly a barista.  But I did keep the mug.  I do like it!  :)

Now here is some info I got from MyBlogSpark to give you a little more info about the coffee.

. 

Gevalia is a luxurious departure from the everyday, an escape from the routine cup of coffee. Whether it´s a morning ritual made just for you, or the finishing touch at a dinner party, it brings the taste of Swedish-style luxury into your home.

In Sweden, where the citizens drink more coffee than almost anywhere else in the world, Gevalia is their preferred brand.

In fact, Gevalia enjoys the honor of being an official coffee of the Swedish Royal Court.

Gevalia, now available at Safeway, brings unexpected Swedish-style luxury and rich, never bitter taste to the Safeway grocery aisle.

Gevalia has been refining the art of luxurious coffee since 1853 and has a deep history of finding and blending the finest Arabica coffee beans from locations around the world.

Gevalia is expertly made with carefully selected beans, ground extra fine, to produce a rich coffee experience.

Previously available online only, Gevalia is now offering its top-ten varieties in U.S. coffee supermarket aisles nationwide in 10 varieties, including roast and ground, whole bean, flavored and decaffeinated varieties:

Now, here are the different varieties available!

Gevalia Traditional Roast (ground and whole bean):  Gevalia Traditional Roast provides a perfectly balanced taste every time. Our most beloved blend - made of choice, mountain-grown Arabica beans - this coffee has a distinctive body and flavor with a lighter intensity. (Medium Roast).

Gevalia House Blend:  A Gevalia favorite, House Blend is a robust yet never bitter coffee. This roast has a captivating aroma that is only matched by its exceptional flavor. (Medium/Dark Roast).

Gevalia House Blend Decaf :  Delivering the same rich, never bitter flavor, House Blend Decaf has the same robust taste without all the caffeine. (Medium/Dark Roast).

Gevalia French Roast (ground and whole bean):  Gevalia French Roast is a coffee of impressive richness and dimension, expertly crafted from prized Arabica beans grown in Colombia and Brazil. Hints of aromatic smoke give this dark-roasted French Roast blend an intense, yet uniquely satisfying flavor. (Dark Roast).

Gevalia Colombia:  Grown high in the Colombian Andes, these beans produce a rich, bright and well-bodied Colombian coffee. This single origin classic is world-renowned, which is why we have sourced these beans for decades. (Medium Roast).

Gevalia Espresso Roast:  Gevalia Espresso Roast is made of premium, mountain-grown Arabica beans from East Africa and Central and South America. This roast is bold and full-bodied with a hint of caramel undertones. (Dark Roast).

Gevalia Vanilla:  This rich blend with vanilla flavor notes is crafted from choice mountain-grown Arabica beans, then roasted for exceptional body and flavor. Gevalia Vanilla is a flavorful and balanced experience with a heavenly aroma.

Gevalia Chocolate Mocha:  Gevalia Chocolate Mocha allows you to indulge your passion for decadent flavor. Rich, velvety chocolate flavor is blended with mountain-grown Arabica beans for a sweetly satisfying experience.

Now for the contest!!!

Win the two bags of coffee and the mug in the picture above!  Prizes to be supplied by Kraft:


◦(1) sample of the House Blend from Gevalia Kaffe

◦(1) sample of the French Roast Blend from Gevalia Kaffe

◦A Gevalia Kaffe branded coffee mug
 
Now, here are the instructions for the contest.  Please read them CAREFULLY as I don't seem to be explaining them well enough.  LOL 
 
Leave a comment.  Which variety of this coffee sounds good to you?  Let me know in a comment ON THIS POST for one entry.  Want more entries?  Here are five more ways you can enter, for a total of six ways to enter! :)

Take my poll in the sidebar and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST letting me know you did. (If you've already taken the poll, just let me know in a comment and I will still count it as an additional entry.)

Follow me on facebook and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an addtional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me on Twitter. and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an addtional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. (If you already follow, just leave an addtional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment HERE ON THIS POST. . (See sidebar. If you already subscribe, just leave an additional comment HERE ON THIS POST to let me know.)

The rules: You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in The Crazy House. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win, or I'll have to draw another winner. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to six entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, February 26, 2012. The winner will be chosen on Monday, February 27, 2012 or sometime soon after.

Kraft Foods has provided sample product to me and is providing the prizes for this program at no cost to me. This program is not administered or sponsored by Kraft Foods or its affiliates, but solely by Ramblings from the Crazy House. 


“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.”

Movie Review: A Mile in His Shoes

Psst!  Would you please take the poll in my sidebar?

As part of the propeller blogger program I was sent a DVD copy of A Mile in his Shoes to review so I could share my thoughts with you.  I am also blessed to be able to give a copy away.  (Contest details follow the review.)

First let me say, I have really been enjoying the fact that there seems to be a lot more decent family films out there these days.  Finally!  For a while there it was almost impossible to find a movie that I could watch with my family without feeling I was compromising my faith.  Well, A Mile in His Shoe is yet another great movie! 

I love being able to share these great finds with you, but I have to admit, I kinda hate writing the reviews because I am the kind of person who really doesn't like to know a whole lot about a movie before I see it.  Ever see a trailer that is like a mini version of the movie?  I hate that!  LOL  So, I find it hard to write a review without giving too much away.  LOL  So, I'll just give you a little hint about what the movie is about.  :)

From the director of Angels in the Outfield, this new movie, A Mile in His Shoes stars Dean Cain and Luke Schroder (son of Ricky Schroder) and is about a semi-professional baseball coach named Arthur Murphy (Murph) who accidentally stumbles across a young man named Mickey who is a naturally gifted pitcher.  The only glitch is that Mickey has Asperger's Syndrome (a form of autism) and is the son of very protective parents who are reluctant to allow Mickey to play ball.  When they finally give in, Mickey learns about a whole new world that exists outside his farm, the good, the bad, and the ugly.  Yes, it's a baseball movie, but it's more of a movie about learning to love, reach out, and take chances.  It's also about forgiveness. 

I watched this film with my daughter and we both really enjoyed it.  It had a great message, but wasn't overtly preachy.  I'd like to see a lot more films like this where it portrays Christian people in a positive light, but is not targeted to a exclusively Christian audience.  A Mile in His Shoes also helps people to understand a little more about , autism and Asperger's Syndrome, which is always a good thing.  Mickey is different, but he's a great kid and worth getting to know. 

For more info about this movie check out these links:
   
Website: http://www.watchgmctv.com/video/mile-his-shoes#biography

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Mile-In-His-Shoes/270101973014772?sk=wall

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ev2T0BFetH4

Dove Foundation Review: http://www.dove.org/reviewmasterframe.asp

Would you like to win your own copy of A Mile in His Shoes?  To enter, please leave a comment on this post.  You can also earn additional entries by doing the following:

Take my poll in the sidebar and leave AN ADDITIONAL comment letting me know you did.  (If you've already taken the poll, just let me know in a comment and I will still count it as an additional entry.)

Follow me on facebook. (If you already follow, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)


Follow me on Twitter. (If you already follow, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar. If you already follow, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar. If you already subscribe, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

The rules: You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in my house. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to six entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, February 5, 2012. The winner will be chosen on Monday, February 6, 2012 or sometime soon after.


“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.”

New Review and Giveaway! FFH's One Silent Night Christmas CD

Contest Closed!

A couple of weeks ago, as part of the propeller blogger program,  I was able to download FFH's latest Album, One Silent Night, free of charge so that I could check it out and let you know my thoughts.  Before we get to those, however, I'd like you to check out the press release.

Press Release for FFH:

(NASHVILLE, Tenn.) Sept. 30, 2011– Best-selling pop group FFH will usher in the holiday season with its first Christmas album. One Silent Night, available Oct. 18, is a mix of original songs and Christmas classics.

Produced by FFH founding member Jeromy Deibler, One Silent Night has been four years in the making. Giving in to the persistent appeals of loyal fans, FFH has crafted a project worthy of your holiday music collection.

Listeners will recognize favorites like “Winter Wonderland,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” and “Jingle Bell Rock,” among others, while being introduced to new tracks including “The Birthday of a King,” “Glorious Impossible,” and “One Silent Night.”

Deibler comments, “We just feel blessed to be able to make this record and wanted to do the kind of Christmas music we like to listen to, something that’s not trendy but more of a classic style. For us Christmas is about remembering… slowing down to see what is important. And being reminded of the glorious impossible that was the birth of Christ. We hope this album reflects that desire and inspires others to do the same.”

FFH plans to support the album with singles “One Silent Night” and “Baby It’s Cold Outside” to radio Oct. 1 as well as select tour dates in November and December.

About FFH:

Pop vocal group FFH has released thirteen projects, sold more than two million albums, and garnered 24 radio hits, including seven No. 1 singles and ten Top 5 radio singles. In addition to multiple Dove Award nominations, FFH has been recognized at the Inspirational Life Awards as well as the Billboard Music Video Awards. The group has performed more than 1000 dates since 2000 and continues to be a favorite on the tour circuit. FFH is also known for its work with the “Make-A-Wish Foundation,” Kurt Warner’s “First Things First Foundation,” and for its contributions to national ad campaigns for Coca Cola and IBM.

My thoughts:

You know, I'm sure that since FFH has had so much success I've heard some of their music, but to be honest, I am not familiar with their work.  I really had no idea what to expect from this album.  However, it's Christmas music!  How can it not be good!  LOL  I don't know why, but even though I have some very specific ideas as to what kinds of music I like, I am simply just not all that picky when it comes to Christmas music.  Perhaps the holidays make me more open-minded, perhaps it's just the spirit of the season, but I pretty much like any style of Christmas music.  Period.  As the years go by, I find myself beginning to dread the hectic, materialistic side of Christmas, so I have to crank up the music to get in the mood.  Somehow it works!

So I checked out the album, and sure enough, I started to feel "Christmasy!"  Would I like FFH's other albums?  I'm not sure.  However, I do feel that I can recommend this album for anyone who likes Christmas music.  I mean, it's Christmas music, how can it not be good!  LOL

For more info, please check out the following websites:

Website: http://ffh.net/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/FFHmusic

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/FFHMusic

iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/one-silent-night/id474548207


The contest:

Now for the giveaway! Would you like to get a free download of One Silent Night? If so, just leave me a comment telling me your favorite Christmas song. ;) You can leave a comment either here or on my facebook page. For additional entries:


Follow me on facebook.  (If you already follow just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

Follow me on Twitter.  (If you already follow, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar. If you already follow, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar.If you already subscribe, just leave a separate comment to let me know.)

The rules: You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in my house. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to five entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, December 11, 2011. The winner will be chosen on Monday, December 12, 2011 or sometime soon after.


"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."

New Movie Review and Giveaway! The Christmas Lodge!

Contest Closed!

I was sent a DVD copy of The Christmas Lodge as part of the propeller blogger review program so that I could watch it and share my thoughts with you.  Check out the synopsis provided by propeller, then keep reading to get my thoughts and find out how win your own copy!

Synopsis:


Thomas Kinkade presents Christmas Lodge: a place where a heart-warming past and loving future meet for one remarkable group of people. During a weekend trip to the mountains, Mary (Erin Karpluk) finds herself at the now-dilapidated lodge where she spent the holidays with her family growing up. She becomes determined to restore the building to its former glory. Inspired by her grandfather and guided by her grandmother in heaven, Mary throws herself into the project, and during the process finds herself drawn to Jack (Michael Shanks), a handsome man who loves the lodge as much as she does. Historically unlucky in love, this chance encounter allows Mary to renew her faith in life and discover her one true love. For an uplifting story about the importance of faith, family and the true holiday spirit, go to the Christmas Lodge.

Check out the trailer:  http://www.imdb.com/video/screenplay/vi1554553881/

My thoughts:

I actually watched this movie a few weeks ago, back in early November.  I admit, it was a bit early for a Christmas movie, but I still found myself enjoying it.  Okay, it's another "feel good" movie, and one with few real surprises, but there's actually something strangely satisfying about knowing everything's going to "turn out all right in the end" and watching it all play out in front of you.  Even Sane Man liked it.  :)

I suppose the thing I liked best about the movie was the closeness between Mary and her family.  You hear about so few families today that can even seem to get along, so to see a functional family in a movie is a breathe of fresh air.  I also appreciated the fact that God was part of the family's life and that they allowed Him to lead them in their endeavors to rebuild the Christmas Lodge.  I did find the whole idea of Mary's grandmother "speaking to her" from heaven a little odd, but not so much that it took away from my enjoyment of the movie.  I'd call it a "chick-flick" but, like I said, even Sane Man liked it, so I guess I can recommend it to everyone!  :)

The Contest!

And now for the giveaway! Would you like to win your own copy of The Christmas Lodge? If so, just leave me a comment telling me who you'd watch it with. ;) You can leave a comment either here or on my facebook page.


For additional entries:


Follow me on facebook.  (If you already follow, still leave an additional comment for an extra entry.)

Follow me on Twitter.  (If you already follow, still leave an additional comment for an extra entry.)

Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar. If you already follow, still leave an additional comment for an extra entry.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar. If you already subscribe, still leave an additional comment for an extra entry.)


The rules:

You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in my house. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to five entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, December 11, 2011. The winner will be chosen on Monday, December 12, 2011 or sometime soon after.




"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."


Happy movie watching!!! :)

New Review and Giveaway! Cooper and Me!

Contest Closed.

A while back I got a cute little book called Cooper and Me from the good folks at propeller.  I read it, put it aside, then forgot about it!  LOL  So, here I am sheepishly posting the "better late than never" review.  ;) 

This is a neat book because the illustrator and co-author is a child!  Check out the press release, and then read my thoughts.  :)

About Cooper and Me:


Cooper and Me was illustrated by 11-year-old Alexa Peters and co-written with her mother, Monique Peters. The idea was inspired by Alexa's own experiences on her first day of school. A talented young artist and writer, Alexa wanted to give back to others in a meaningful way through her art. Starting at a very young age, Alexa created illustrated stories about her daily experiences, and from the pages of her sketchbooks came the idea for her first book, Cooper and Me.

Through rhythmic verses, Cooper and Me tells the story of a young girl who is nervous as her first day of school approaches. She is frightened about leaving home and doesn't want to go without her best friend, her dog Cooper. Fortunately her mother finds the perfect solution to help the little girl overcome her fears – a small replica of her beloved pet she can take to school with her. In Cooper and Me, the story of a child’s fears about starting school has evolved into a timeless tale about overcoming separation anxiety and trying new things – basic emotions all people experience throughout their lives – but this time, written by a child, for children.

The story behind Cooper and Me also offers an inspiring example of families working together to help others. In addition to helping young children gain emotional resilience and confidence through their books, Alexa and mom Monique wanted to go beyond that to help less fortunate kids. Their search for an organization to which they could donate a portion of the proceeds from the Cooper and Me book led to a charitable alliance with the Happy Hearts Fund, founded and run by Petra Nemcova, the supermodel who was directly affected by the tsunami in Thailand. Happy Hearts improves children’s lives through education and sustainable programs in natural disaster areas.

My thoughts:

I found this to be an adorable book.  Admittedly, I am a homeschool mom, so the whole "first day of school" aspect of the book didn't apply to my family.  I mean, we school at home and our dog is right here with us!  LOL  However, we still have had first days at Sunday school, co-op, etc.  So, while I know most of my readers are also homeschoolers, I can still recommend this book.  I mean, what a cool thing that it's written by a little girl!  Even if you don't send your child to kindergarten, you can still enjoy the book and talk to your child about living out your dreams.  Maybe your child wants to write or illustrate books.  Maybe they have other dreams.  Maybe they have no dreams, and this will inspire them to do something more exciting than reach the next level of the latest video game.  LOL

Wanna find out more?  Check out the link below.

Website: http://http://www.cooperandme.com/

And now for the giveaway!  Would you like to win your own copy of Cooper and Me?  If so, just leave me a comment telling me who you'd read it to.  ;)  You can leave a comment either here or on my facebook page.  For additional entries: 

Follow me on facebook.

Follow me on Twitter.

Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar.)

The rules: You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in my house. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ENTRY for up to five entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old. That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 4, 2011. The winner will be chosen on Monday, December 5, 2011 or sometime soon after.

"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."



Happy Reading!!! :)

Last Day for FREE MILK and to win a $25 Kroger Card!!!

Contest Closed.

Purchase any four participating General Mills products like Cheerios, Pillsbury Ready to Bake Cookies, Nature Valley Bars and Fiber One Bars* that your family knows and loves, and Kroger will reward you for your purchases. It´s that simple! Head on over to your local Kroger to take advantage of this great offer.  You will either receive free milk (up to $3; limit of 2) or to receive $3 off your shopping order.**

*Excludes General Mills meal and baking products including; Betty Crocker, Old El Paso, Progresso, Hamburger Helper, Macaroni Grill, Wanchai Ferry, Yoplait

**Promotion varies based on store location; check your local Kroger store for details. (Cash Offer: Mid South, Delta, Mid Atlantic, SW Louisiana stores, Central Missouri stores and Dillons Missouri stores)
 
Check out these sites for more Kroger info!
 
Kroger Website http://bit.ly/Krogerfreemilk

Kroger Facebook Page http://on.fb.me/KrogerMilk

Kroger Twitter Page http://bit.ly/KrogerTwitter

Wanna win a $25 Kroger card?  Today is the final day to enter!  Leave a comment either here or on my facebook page to enter.  You can also earn additional entries by doing the following:
 
Follow me on facebook.

Follow me on Twitter.

Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar.)

The rules: You must be 13 years old or older to enter and not live in my house. :) Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win. MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDTIONAL ENTRY for up to five entries per person. More than one person may enter per household if they are at least 13 years old.  That's about it. :)

The contest will close at 11:59 p.m. on November 26, 2011.  The winner will be chosen on November 27, 2011 or sometime soon after. 

"Disclosure: The Kroger gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by Kroger and General Mills through MyBlogSpark."

Happy Krogering!

New Review and Contest! What is He Thinking?? by: Rebecca St. James

Contest Closed

I recently finished reading What is He Thinking?? by Rebecca St. James, a book she wrote about dating, love, and marriage that I recieved free as part of the propeller blogger program.  Check out the press release, then read my thoughts.

About What Is He Thinking??

In What is He Thinking??, Rebecca interviews a range of men from high-profile types to the guys next door, men that every woman can relate to. Although the interviews focus on single guys ages 20-35, Rebecca also includes words of wisdom from older mentors she respects who have been successfully married for years, people like her dad, life coach, and pastor.

The men share their thoughts on topics like how women can respect themselves and the men in their lives, modesty, purity, taking it slow, friendship, letting guys lead, and more. This book gives them the floor to say what they would really like women to know.

The men respond candidly to questions such as:

•What is the most attractive quality to you in a woman?

•Is modesty truly attractive?

•Is neediness a turn-off?

•What do you find beautiful?

•How can we be dependent on God for our identity, not on you?

•How can we help you with boundaries physically?

Rebecca also discusses her own dating life, speaking openly about the single life, her struggle with loneliness, and her hope for the future. She challenges women to see the men in their lives as brothers in Christ and to trust God with their dating lives.

About Rebecca

Australian born Rebecca St. James is a Grammy Award winner and a multiple Dove Award recipient, with international success that has driven her record sales into the millions. In January 2008, she was named Favorite Female Artist in Contemporary Christian Music by readers of CCM Magazine for the seventh consecutive year. Rebecca also won Best Female Artist of 2007 from Christianitytoday.com-her fifth consecutive year to be given this honor. She's been involved in several film productions and voiced the character of Hope the Angel in VeggieTales' bestselling DVD production The Easter Carol. You can read more about Rebecca on her official Web site: www.rsjames.com or on her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/RSJames.

My thoughts:

I had sort of mixed feelings about this book, mostly because it wasn't quite what I was expecting.  I thought it was going to be a "the results of an anonymous survery" kind of book.  Instead, the book is from the perspectives of only Godly Christian men.  While this is good, I think sometimes girls need to know what other guys think, because so often I see them dating non-Chrisitians not realizing how differently they think about just about everything.  Also, and I hate to say it, a lot of the Christian guys often don't have the purest intentions when dating either.  This is just reality folks.  So, while she interviewed some really great guys, I think they were not really an accurate representation of guys everywhere.  That being said, there were some great guys, and reading this would really help a girl know what to look for.

There is much to love about this book.  For one, she doesn't even discuss teen dating.  This book is not about hanging out and having a "bf "so you can post mushy stuff on facebook for all the world to see.  This book is about finding a mate for life.  This is, in my humble opinion, what the purpose of dating should be.  I think the youngest guy she quotes in the book is 18, and hasn't even dated yet.  The rest of the guys are all older. 

I also liked that she did discuss things like boundaries.  Compared to most folk, she is very conservative.  She gives a lot of great advice.  I am a bit more conservative, however, and a few things I thought were not something I would advise.  For example, in one part of the book she talked about a rule that stated that you should never sit on a bed with a guy.  Okay, I'm all for that, but I would advise to stay out of the bedroom completely, and even out of the house if no one else is home. 

So, do I recommend the book?  For just about everyone, yes.  For those who are following a more strict "courtship model," no.  My suggestion is that if you are a parent, you can click on the OpenBook link below to read the first 10% of the book.  If you feel comfortable with that, buy it, finish reading it, then if you feel it represents your family's dating philosophy, by all means buy it and share it with your daughter.  Or, better yet, you could win the book!  Check out how right after these links:

Facebook (Author): http://www.blogger.com/Facebook%20(Author):%20http://www.facebook.com/RSJames

Facebook (Book): http://www.facebook.com/whatishethinkingRSJ

Twitter: http://twitter.com/rebeccastjames

Website: http://rsjames.com/

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/rsjchannel

Link to HBG website book detail page: http://goo.gl/RTy0O

OpenBook Link: http://goo.gl/BWgEs (preview the first 10% of the book)

Would you like to win this book?  It's easy!  Simply comment on why you would like to win it.  Having trouble with comments here on the blog?  Leave a comment on the Crazy Mom Facebook Page instead.  (I'd love it if you'd do both, but I am only counting one as an entry.)  For up to four additional entries, you can do the following:

Follow me on facebook.

Follow me on Twitter.

Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar.)

Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar.)

The rules:  You must be 13 to enter and not live in my house.  :)  Please leave your e-mail address or some other way I can contact you if you win.  MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ADDTIONAL ENTRY.  That's about it.  :)

The contest will end at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, November 27, 2011.  I'll draw the winner Monday, November 28, 2011 or sometime soon after. 

"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."

New Review and Contest: Revolution Worship

As part of the propeller review program I was able to download and listen to the new Revolution Worship Live!  My World Revolution CD.  Before I give you my thoughts, check out this press release:

About Revolution Worship LIVE:

“Revolution Worship…Live At Joy Church International”, is a tremendous Praise & Worship album with a powerfully inspiring collection of songs that is unparalleled to any other Praise & Worship series in it’s category. Filled with meaningful lyrics and sincere, personal worship, “Revolution Worship…Live At Joy Church International” masterfully demonstrates authenticity at it’s best. From fiery, electrifying tracks with edgy, rock-driven guitar to peaceful, intimate tracks, this album focuses on pointing attention to God.

And because it’s recorded live, you get to experience the congregational feel of being in a vibrant church service.

Infusing musical quality with a spiritual impact that raises the bar on what to expect in new Praise & Worship music, “Revolution Worship…Live At Joy Church International” brings you a brand new worship experience.

From start to finish, this release is about the act of ministering uncompromisingly God-centered music through pure, heart-felt praise!

My thoughts:

This is a very professionally done CD, especially considering the fact that it's done live.  I do have to admit, however, that this isn't the particular style of music I normally listen to.  However, while it's not what I'd listen to for entertainment, I'll take some TobyMac or Newsboys, please, I can see myself worshipping to some of these songs in a corporate setting.  For someone who does enjoy this style of music on a regular basis, this is really well done, as I said, and would probably quickly become a favorite album.  Actually, Sane Man has some CDs that seem to have similar styles to this and he loves them.  To each his own!  I know I haven't given the music much of a description, but you can check that out for yourself by clicking on these links:
 
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyWorldRevolution

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/MWRevolution

iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/revolution-worship-live/id467741849

Video: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=2371896618238

Now for the contest!

Would you like to win your own Revolution Worship CD?  To enter to win, simply leave a comment either here or on the Crazy Mom facebook page.  Just tell me why you want to win this CD.  You can gain more entries by doing the following:

Follow me on facebook.
Follow me on Twitter.
Follow me with Google Friend Connect. (See sidebar.)
Subscribe to my blog via Feedburner. (See sidebar.)

YOU MUST LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EVERY WAY YOU WISH TO ENTER!!!  Also, make sure you leave me an e-mail address or some other way for me to contact you if you win.  :)

I will run this contest until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, November 20, 2011.  I'll draw the winner on Monday, November 21, 2011.  Anyone can enter as long as he or she is at least 13 years old and doesn't live in my house.  :) 

The fine print:

"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."