"Before the Wrath" Movie Giveaway

"Before the Wrath" is a docudrama style movie that addresses the much debated theme of the Rapture in a way that is encouraging and uplifting.

"Before the Wrath" is available in a variety of formats including: Blu-ray, DVD, and digital. It has been the #1-selling documentary DVD on Amazon for three straight months!

But concerning the times and the seasons, 
brethren, you have no need that I should write to you. 
For you yourselves know perfectly 
that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night.
1 Thessalonians 5:1-2

Kevin Sorbo, from "Soul Surfer", "God's Not Dead", and "Hercules", narrates this docudrama and is joined by an amazing group of theological experts including: Jack Hibbs, Amir Tsarfati, Jan Markell, and JD Farag. 

My husband and I had the opportunity to view this movie and found it to be very hopeful. In hindsight we could have had our sensitive teens watch it too. The experts mentioned above are ones that my husband and I have watched in the past and have found to be reputable so it was great to see them share their insight in this movie.

Although many people debate the timing, and some even the likelihood, of the Rapture, this movie reveals the importance of knowing what Jesus, Himself, taught about the Rapture. This movie is full of hope for believers and serves as a reminder to share the gospel with others in preparation for Jesus' return.

Check out the trailer for "Before the Wrath" and share it with others! This message is so needed and relevant during these times of uncertainty and stress.

Themes in "Before the Wrath" include: prophecy, faith, and salvation.

"Before the Wrath" is recommended for fans of Bible stories and documentaries such as "Is Genesis History?", "Patterns of Evidence: Exodus", and "Finding Noah". Really anyone who's curious to learn more about the Rapture should see this movie regardless of what they believe.

Check it out: Visit "Before the Wrath" Official Website to learn more about the movie and about the experts involved in the making of the movie.

Buy it:
Visit "Before the Wrath" Order Now Page to order Blu-ray/DVD combo packs, DVDs, or Blu-ray and/or DVD combos with books. There is also a special deal offered on a 5 pack of DVDs.

Stream it:
Visit "Before the Wrath" Order Now Page and scroll to the bottom for information on how you can stream it on Christian Cinema, Amazon, or Vimeo on Demand

Win it:
One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a "Before the Wrath" DVD/Blu-ray set (if the winner is American) OR a "Before the Wrath" DVD (if the winner is Canadian).

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Disclosure: Thanks to LEV3L, I was able to screen this movie at home and will receive a DVD in exchange for an honest review on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. 


~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"Before the Wrath" Movie

Check out the trailer for "Before the Wrath" and share it with others:

Rent or buy "Before the Wrath". It's available now on Blu-Ray, DVD, and Digital.

Check out the Official Site of "Before the Wrath" to purchase or for more information and photos.

Experts involved in the movie include: Jack Hibbs, Amir Tsarfati, Jan Markell, and JD Farag.

But concerning the times and the seasons, brethren, 

you have no need that I should write to you. 

For you yourselves know perfectly 

that the day of the Lord so comes 

as a thief in the night.
1 THESSALONIANS 5:1-2

 ~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"Breakthrough" Movie

"Breakthrough" tells the inspirational true story of a mother's love and the power of prayer. This movie is opening in theaters April 17, 2019 -- just in time for Easter!

When Joyce Smith's son, John, fell through the ice on a Missouri lake their world was forever changed. "Breakthrough" is "an enthralling reminder that faith and love can create a mountain of hope, and sometimes even a miracle."

My husband and I were blessed to have a preview of the movie "Breakthrough". We were impressed by the strong acting and the fact that the "characters" were written as real people with flaws. The movie is sure to tug at your heart strings.

If you're a fan of "This is Us" and Chrissy Metz (who plays Kate Pearson) -- you'll be so glad to see her in this role as a mom with strong faith. Chrissy Metz is quoted as saying “I've had some hardships myself, obviously, not to this degree but things that were really trying. And the only thing that sort of kept me going was my faith.” (The Christian Post)

"Breakthrough" is an amazing tribute to the power of prayer and the importance of faith. This movie is sure to inspire and encourage you!

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

Easter Words of Encouragement

Christianquotes.info 

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Easter -- celebrating the resurrection of Jesus!

How amazing is it to think that God loved us while we were imperfect. We don't need to be "good" or "good enough" to be worthy of God's love or to earn salvation. Salvation is a free gift from God and all we need to do is accept His free gift! What a blessing. 

Please don't hesitate to ask questions if you would like to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, or the Christian faith! I might not be able to answer all your questions, but I love the Lord...

Check out: my favourite Easter story from 8 years ago: 

Joy in Jesus' Return -- From a Kid's Point of View 

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"Paul, Apostle of Christ" Movie Giveaway

"Paul, Apostle of Christ" is a movie that tells the Biblical story of the life of Paul. Releasing nationwide on Friday, March 23, "Paul, Apostle of Christ" is a faith filled movie that is recommended for ages 13 and up.

Jim Caviezel ("Passion of the Christ" and "Person of Interest") and James Faulkner ("Downton Abbey") lead the cast in this movie. While I don't know James Faulkner very well, I have always enjoyed Jim Caviezel's performances -- especially in the science fiction movie "Frequency".

The plot: Paul is imprisoned in Rome by Emperor Nero and sentenced to death. Luke, his devoted friend, hopes to write a book that details Paul's tumultuous journeys and the message of Jesus Christ.

Although I haven't yet seen the movie myself, it looks like it will tell a powerful story of redemption, mercy and grace. Paul's imprisonment always serves to remind us to persevere in the midst of persecution -- a theme that is increasingly necessary in the world at large.

Of course this movie will have some fictional aspects to flesh it out into a movie length, but thankfully, the makers of the movie have strived to tell a story that honours the Biblical account. Check out the following video for a discussion of Biblical accuracy in the movie:

The story of Saul-turned-Paul is such an amazing example of the transformational work of Jesus Christ. When we consider that Paul could go from a man who hated and killed Christians to the writer of many New Testament books, this should give us pause. Surely God can forgive sinners such as us, if he forgave Paul his past sins. What a blessing to know that God's grace and mercy are for us all.

"Paul, Apostle of Christ" is in theaters March 23 and will be a great movie to watch in the weeks building up to Easter.

Check out:

"Paul, Apostle of Christ" Official Website to find a theater and to learn more about the cast and the storyline. There are also photos and videos hidden on the website if you click the menu in the upper left corner.

"Paul, Apostle of Christ" Facebook Page has photos, quotes, and videos.

Letters from Paul videos are narrated readings of Scriptures by James Faulkner, the actor who depicts Paul in the movie.

Win it: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader (US only) will win movie tickets for two to see the movie "Paul, Apostle of Christ" in theaters! (2 Fandango discount code tickets).

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Disclosure: I wrote this post as a featured contributor of Collide Media Group: "Paul, Apostle of Christ" Influencer Program. Thanks to Collide Media Group, Columbia TriStar Marketing Group, Inc. and LEV3L,  I received two Fandango movie tickets in exchange for an honest review on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers.
 ~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"All Saints" Movie Giveaway

I love movies that are inspiring -- even more so when the movie is based on a true story. "All Saints" is just that -- an inspiring movie based on a true story! Releasing nationwide on Friday, August 25, 2017, "All Saints" looks to be a feel good movie (recommended age is 10 and up).

John Corbett is known for starring in some great movies including: "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and "Ramona and Beezus" (where he plays one of the best dads ever).

In "All Saints" John Corbett plays salesman-turned-pastor, Michael Spurlock, who is told his first assignment as pastor is to shut down his small church.

Michael, his congregation, and a group of Karen refugees from Burma sponsored by his church are faced with a decision -- will they risk it all and rise to the challenge to provide hope for their community?

"All Saints" is sure to be a movie with a great message. I'm looking forward to seeing it and supporting a quality, Christian movie. I hope it will challenge Christians to step out in faith and make a difference in the lives of others and in the lives of their communities.

Check out:

"All Saints" Official Film Site has some amazing resources including: Refugee Information, Discussion Guides and clips from the movie.

"All Saints" Facebook Page has photos, interviews (including one with the real Michael Spurlock) and behind-the-scenes clips!

Buy it: Visit "All Saints" Official Film Site to buy tickets for the movie and get more information.

Win it: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader (US only) will win movie tickets for two to see the movie "All Saints" in theaters! (2 Fandango discount code tickets).

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Disclosure: As a featured contributor of Sony's ALL SAINTS Influencer Program, I received the value of two movie tickets in exchange for an honest review on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers.

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

The Afters: "Live on Forever" CD Giveaway

"Live on Forever" is the newest album from the Christian band, The Afters.  The soul searching songs on the album are in response to loss and heartache, BUT -- the album is ultimately one of HOPE and JOY!

"Our hope was to encourage people...

[to] remind them that we grow through tragedy 

and God is faithful through it all."

Josh Havens -- lead singer of The Afters

We need to be continually reminded to consider life from God's point of view and not our own temporal point of view.  "Live on Forever" is an album of songs that help us see our life (and present sufferings) in light of eternity.

The song "Battles" reminds us that God is with us and will not leave us in the midst of trying times.  In fact -- He is fighting our battles for us!

One of my favourite songs on the album is "Sunrise":  

"You are the sunrise in my sky

Nothing can hide you from my eyes

A day is coming soon when You'll make all things new.

You are the sunrise in my sky."

If you are looking for encouragement and hope -- give The Afters "Live on Forever" a listen.  You are sure to find a song that meets you where you're at and gives you the message from God that you need to hear.

Check Out: The Afters Official Website or visit them at: Twitter / Facebook / Instagram

Buy It: You can buy "The Afters: Live on Forever" on Amazon / iTunes / Google Play / Spotify

Win It: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the CD "The Afters: Live on Forever"

a Rafflecopter giveaway
"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant  per mailing address, per  giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"Miracle in Music City" by Natalie Grant

*This post is by guest blogger, Desiree, who is 12 years old.*

"Miracle in Music City" by Natalie Grant is book 3 of the Glimmer Girls series. The series is about twins: Mia and Maddie, along with their younger sister Lulu. Together the sisters solve mysteries as they travel with their famous mother, singer Gloria Glimmer.

In book 3: "Miracle in Music City", Mia, Maddie and Lulu are invited to sing at the Grand Ole Opry for a fundraiser for the homeless. Unfortunately, their friends are jealous of the sisters' singing opportunity. 

One of the things I disliked about the story is that, in the beginning of the book, Mia and Maddie get back from a summer concert tour to find out that their best friends, Annabeth and Emily, made up a dance while they were gone. Mia and Maddie are really offended and a fight starts between the four friends that lasts throughout the whole book. I just think that the dance fight was made into too big of a problem in the book.

One of the best parts in this book is the great moral about helping others. In the story the twins serve soup to the homeless and end up meeting a young homeless girl around their age named Ruby. Mia and Maddie try to come up with ways to help Ruby and her family when an expensive guitar goes missing and Ruby's family is the prime suspects. Can Mia and Maddie solve the mystery and help their new friend at the same time?

I think that this book is good for 7 to 11 year old girls - especially those who like singing and dancing. The themes of helping others and of forgiveness are important morals. 

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers http://booklookbloggers.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

~❀~ Desiree ~❀~

Happy Easter! Jesus is Risen!!!

Easter 2010

Elijah (age 10) reminded me that we needed to bury our toy Jesus in the backyard.  I didn't realize that this was a tradition that he wanted to keep up with, but I'm all for making memories and continuing traditions and so Jesus was buried in the back yard.  But -- He didn't stay buried!

He was buried, 

and He was raised from the dead on the third day, 

just as the Scriptures said.

1 Corinthians 15:4

Check out this funny story about the first time we buried Jesus in our yard from Easter 2010 .

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"Patterns of Evidence: Exodus" DVD Giveaway

Is the Israelite's Exodus from Egypt a true story or is it a myth?  Filmmaker Timothy Mahoney strives to answer that question while examining archaeological and historical evidence in his new documentary "Patterns of Evidence: Exodus".

This documentary took Timothy Mahoney 12 years to make and involved his traveling from Israel to Egypt to the Netherlands.  "Patterns of Evidence: Exodus" examines Biblical texts and archaeological artifacts and contains interviews with leading experts -- both those who are for and against the authenticity of the Bible's Exodus.

It was interesting to see the historical timeline presented visually in this documentary.  "Patterns of Evidence: Exodus" considers that the artifacts that prove the Biblical account to be true may be "missing" because people have been looking for the Exodus at the wrong time in history.  Shifting the timeline back 250 - 400 years means that events in the Bible, including the Exodus, begin to line up with archaeological and historical evidence.

Is it enough to consider the Exodus to be a moral fable or does it matter to you if the Exodus story is true?  "Patterns of Evidence: Exodus" is a great documentary for those that question the validity of the Scriptures and for those who want to critically think about what they believe.

My husband, 9 year old and 11 year old were intrigued by this documentary (though admittedly my kids only watched the first half hour).  I trust that you and your family will enjoy it and be challenged by it too.

Check out: "Patterns of Evidence: Exodus" Trailer  and
"Patterns of Evidence: Exodus" Official Website

Learn more: Interviews with director Tim Mahoney

Buy It: "Patterns of Evidence: Exodus" Shop

Win it:  One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the DVD "Patterns of Evidence: Exodus".

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"The Good, the Bad, and the Grace of God" by Jep and Jessica Robertson with Susy Flory

"The Good, the Bad, and the Grace of God -- What Honesty and Pain Taught Us about Faith, Family and Forgiveness" by Jep and Jessica Robertson (of Duck Dynasty) with Susy Flory...  Reading this book is like being invited to Jep and Jess' for a backyard bonfire and some great conversation.  (How fun would that be!).

There is something that everyone can find to relate to in this book -- whether it's feeling insecure, keeping secrets, questions about God and Faith, addictions or divorce.  And because Jep and Jess are so honest in telling their stories you begin to feel a kinship with them.

“We are desperate to let people know that 

no matter what you’ve done; 

no matter what you’ve lived through, 

you can come out of it. 

You can be washed clean."

This book gives insight into the personal triumphs and struggles of Jep and Jessica throughout their lives.  Funny stories about sibling relationships or hunting trips are interspersed with stories about the strong bonds of family and painful stories of love and betrayal.   

So many people struggle with the idea that they are beyond God's love.  Jep and Jessica talk about their insecurities and their realization that God loves us as we are -- even with all our secrets and sins.  

Jep says in the book: "As I looked at God's Word with fresh eyes, I realized that repenting and turning to God meant I was saved and forgiven.  Jesus' blood covered my sins and redeemed me from the path of destruction I was on.  I couldn't have ever been good enough on my own."

No one is good enough on their own merit which is why we need a Saviour.  Jep and Jess highlight how important it is to have your own faith and to recognize it isn't our works that save us -- it is Jesus' death and resurrection that provides redemption for us.

Be sure to check out this book.  And if you have any questions about Jesus' death and resurrection -- please don't hesitate to e-mail me or leave a comment below. 

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers http://booklookbloggers.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

King David: Get to Know Series by Nancy I. Sanders

"King David: Get to Know Series" by Nancy I. Sanders is a biography on the life of David.  David is one of the best known Bible characters thanks to the story of David and Goliath, but this book also highlights his life-long journey from shepherd boy to great King.

This book contains special features including "Word Bank" sections which tell the definition of words that may be unfamiliar and "Did You Know?" fun facts sections.  One interesting fact is that at the time of David and Goliath's battle, the Philistines were the only people who knew how to make weapons out of iron!

This book is visually fascinating as it includes pictures of artifacts, maps, artwork and present day photographs.  Archaeological evidence is shown that proves the existence of David.  At the end of the book there is a time line of David's life that also shows when events in world history took place.

The book tells David's life story including King Saul's jealousy towards him, his friendship with Jonathan and his time as a fugitive.  While it mentions David's sin regarding Bathsheba and her husband, the consequence for this sin is glossed over by saying: "Then he married Bathsheba.  They eventually had a son named Solomon." (pg 83). Mention is made of the story of Tamar, Amnon and Absalom, but the conflict is told in such a way that isn't inappropriate for younger readers.  Readers who are older and interested in finding out more can look up these stories in the Bible.

I appreciate that the book highlights David's remorse for sin as well as God's graciousness.  David was not perfect, yet he has a place in the lineage of Jesus.  The book emphasizes the prophecy written by David in Psalm 16:10 about Jesus' death and resurrection -- 1,000 years before Jesus' birth.  

Overall, this book is a great addition to any bookshelf.  It gives more details than a standard children's book would and is a great read "for kids" as the book cover suggests, but also for anyone who wants a better understanding of the life of King David.

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers http://booklookbloggers.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

Focus on the Family Advent Fun!

Check out this free advent devotional available to download!  It comes with an interactive poster where you add characters such as King David, Isaiah and John the Baptist to the poster each day as you read about that person's (or animal's) part in the birth of Jesus!

Visit Focus on the Family to find out more information!

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

Riley Mae and the Sole Fire Safari by Jill Osborne

Book 3 of the "Good News Shoes" series follows Riley Mae and her friends on another great adventure -- this time to the other side of the world -- to Africa!

"If you want to go fast, go alone.  

 If you want to go far, go together."

Kenyan saying

"Riley Mae and the Sole Fire Safari" by Jill Osborne is the 3rd book of a series that should be read in order to be fully enjoyed.

With the African setting, Riley is faced with different challenges, but the themes are still close to home.  The theme of prayer and God not always answering in the way we expect is revisited.  Riley has a bit of a bad attitude about being in Africa at first -- especially when she has to eat strange food and wake up incredibly early in the morning.  Despite her prayers to get back home, Riley finds God has a different plan for her.

Part of God's plan is for Riley to think about what she wants to be when she grows up.  Faith, Riley's friend who is a Kenyan native, has a strong commitment to education and is sure of what God has called her to do with her life.  Faith inspires Riley to find out what God has called her to do and to trust that God will guide her.

The importance of sharing the gospel (even though you feel afraid) is readdressed.  In this book, Riley has the opportunity to tell the good news to a young, Kenyan orphan.

One thing worth mentioning is the extra emphasis on Riley's crush, Sean, in this book.  She writes a letter to him that she doesn't intend to send saying: "I hope you don't "like" her like you "like" me." and even talks about marriage as a possibility in the future.  Sean comes up a few more times in the book -- for example when Riley's friends say they are praying for her and Sean to get together.  This seems a bit of a jump from the previous two books which talked about doughnuts more than serious feelings.  

This book will inspire soft hearted reader to think about things globally -- topics like elephant and rhino poachers; the accessibility of clean water; and the availability of quality education for those in other countries.  The threat for young girls in Kenya of being kidnapped and taken for wives is also addressed.

Riley and her friends will once again encourage pre-teens to have a closer walk with God; to focus on prayer; and to consider His plan for their lives.  And, of course, there's the added bonus of reading about adventure and mystery against an African backdrop!

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers http://booklookbloggers.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek by Jill Osborne

Book 1 of the "Good News Shoes" series introduces us to Riley Mae, the spokesperson for a new collection of sport shoes.

In Book 1: "Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek", Riley realizes the importance of keeping her commitments when photo shoots and publicity events prevent her from playing softball.  Riley deals a lot with friendships as her new commitments lead to conflict between Riley and her best friend, TJ, who doesn't understand her circumstance.  Riley also meets (and helps) a new friend, Rusty, who is struggling financially because her dad is out of work.

A strong theme in "Riley Mae and the Rock Shocker Trek" is the importance of praying to God about decisions and about praying to God when you are scared.  I like that Riley isn't an example of perfect faith.  She asks the age old question we all wonder from time to time "How do you know if God says "Yes"?".

Another strong theme in the book is the importance of being prepared to share the gospel.  At one point Rusty has questions about the Bible and Riley feels ill-equipped to answer them.  Watching a little girl in the Sunday School class answer Rusty's questions inspires Riley to become better prepared to share the gospel with those around her.

One thing that I didn't love about the book is that Riley keeps some secrets from her parents and asks others (including adults) to keep secrets from her parents.  These aren't major secrets, but still kids keeping secrets is something I don't agree with.  The fact that she forgot to apply sunscreen and that her new friend is without food are two examples of the secrets Riley keeps from her parents.  This isn't enough of an issue to me to not recommend the book -- but it is a topic that could/should be discussed with your pre-teen when she reads the book.

Another concern I have with the book is that God is referred to as "small 'h' he" instead of "big H "He".  I prefer when God is referred to with a capital "H" because I think it shows more reverence.

Riley learns in Book 1 that things aren't always as they seem.  With the help of her friends and family, Riley uncovers a mystery -- all while experiencing an adventurous climb up Half-Dome in Yosemite.

Although the cover doesn't hint at it -- mystery and adventure go hand in hand in this book.  It will be sure to keep the interest of your pre-teen readers and inspire them in their faith at the same time.

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers http://booklookbloggers.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

  ~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

Riley Mae and the Ready Eddy Rapids by Jill Osborne

Riley learns that life is unpredictable as she goes on an adventure with her friends and family in book 2 of the Good News Shoes series: "Riley Mae and the Ready Eddy Rapids" by Jill Osborne. Aimed at pre-teens -- this adventure novel is a great mix of humour and spiritual morals.

Riley Mae is the 12 year old spokesperson for a line of shoes.  To promote the new Riley Mae river sandals, Riley heads to Montana for a photo shoot and there the adventure begins -- or rather -- continues.

Sometimes you can pick up a book 2 in a series and figure out where you are, but this is a time when I wish I had realized this was book 2 and read book 1 first since there were references to the first adventure throughout this novel.  What this book needs is a great big "2" in the upper corner!

Some of the pluses in this book were a reference to sponsoring children and writing letters to them as well as references to making a difference in the lives of others through helping them or sharing the gospel with them.  One quote from the novel that highlights this is 

"God cares more about what we give than what we have."

Some points worth mentioning are the mature themes that are referred to.  Murder and death threats are both mentioned as well as a child who is abandoned by her mother.  Riley's friend, Sunday, has leukemia and, while that is dealt with more in depth, it is handled very positively.  In fact, Sunday is a beacon of hope to everyone around him.

The squeamish (like my daughter) should know that there are references to needles a couple of times and references to an injury as "hamburger".

I like that Riley at one point flips open the Bible to a random page hoping for the answer to her question and she discovers that that doesn't work for her.  Some Christian books have all the answers readily available for the characters and I like that this novel is more true to life.  Sometimes you don't have the answers you hope for right away, but you can still trust that God is with you and is orchestrating things for your good.  

While there is some talk of a crush between two adults, Riley's interest in a boy back home is simple and innocent.  Riley isn't gushing about boys or makeup or fashion.  She doesn't try to impress anyone by acting older than she is.  

Riley is a girl with a growing faith who learns that she has been called to share God's Good News with those around her.  She and her friends are the kinds of Christian role models you want your preteen to read about.  And considering the great adventures Riley and her friends have, the Good News Shoes series are the kinds of book your preteen will want to read.

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers http://booklookbloggers.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

My Death-Defying Summer

I had a horrible headache, but I had told the kids that we would go bowling with their friends and I wanted to keep my word. I bowled with a headache because sometimes that's a mother's love.


That night I developed a fever and chills.  The next day I was delirious. On the third day I had a moment of clarity (which I thank God for).  I asked my husband to bring me the thermometer and I also took my heart rate.  Temperature: 104  Resting heart rate: 122 bpm.  I told him I thought I should go to the Emergency.

There were chest x-rays and ecgs, blood tests and ivs.  I found out I had pneumonia.  Mid-summer, no cold or flu to trigger it - pneumonia.  They wanted to admit me for a few days, but I refused since Ernie can't take care of the kids on his own (due to stroke symptoms).  Instead I returned to the hospital every night for the next week to have iv antibiotic therapy.

The night that I came home from the hospital the kids had both said in the dark of the night "I hope you don't die, Mom".  I reassured them by scoffing gently at their concern and saying "I'm not going to die".

I had a follow up visit with my family doctor a few days later and it was then that I was told I had "life threatening pneumonia".  I didn't realize that...  You'd think it would have been more obvious to me if my life was threatened.

I nearly died in my family room left for days to "recover" by my well-meaning husband and children...  Then I reassured my kids of the very thing that was up in the air.

The conversation I had with my children after my follow-up appointment was significantly different.  I reminded them that we all will die and not one of us knows when that day will be.  I told them that the important thing was that I have asked Jesus to be my Saviour and to forgive me of my sins and so I will go to Heaven when I die.

Jesus said "I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die."  John 11:25 & 26

Now that's reassuring...

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

FAITH in the midst of FIRE

My husband is permanently disable due to a stroke he had nearly five years ago (at the age of 33).  The resulting brain damage has caused problems with stress management, mood management, comprehension, impulsivity, sleep and memory.  He also has balance issues at times that affect his ability to walk and has had seizures which are now under the control of medication.  My husband's having had a stroke and the ongoing symptoms make life hellish for us.

Whenever someone asks me how my husband is doing I say: "He has good days and he has bad days."  It's my standard pat answer where I'm trying to be honest without being negative -- trying not to reveal too much and scare the asker off.

I see the look of disappointment as the asker scrambles for something to say next.  I know they were expecting me to say "He is 100% well!" and then they can reply "I knew he would be -- I've been praying for him."

I feel like somehow I have let them down.  I feel like I should be apologetic for my husband not being healed.  I ought to pat them on the back and reassure them that their prayers do matter and that their faith is valid.

But, "Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."  Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego are examples of FAITH in the midst of FIRE.

Image: xedos4 / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Daniel 3 quotes Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego as saying:  

¹⁶ “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. ¹⁷ If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. ¹⁸ But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

I'd heard the story all my life, but hadn't noticed "But even if He does not" until I became an adult.

If Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego knew without a doubt that God would save them, it wouldn't be amazing for them to step into the fire. It's because their faith was strong whether or not God saved them that the Bible tells us of their testimony.

And so, I do my best to go through life having faith in God whether or not He heals my husband in this present world; whether or not He minimizes my family's stresses; whether or not He restores my family's peace...

I know God hears my prayers.  But even if He does not deliver us from our current circumstances, I will not lose faith.

 ~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

Have a Blessed Easter!

 Wishing you all a Happy Easter weekend...

Jesus ministering to the multitudes

I hope you have fun with family and friends however you celebrate.

Easter to me is a time of thankfulness for Jesus' death and resurrection.  I know that my sins are forgiven because of His act of love.   

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 

"For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: 

that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 

that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day 

according to the Scriptures"

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~