"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 ~❀~

Little Women: A Modern Retelling -- Movie Giveaway!

In honour of the 150th anniversary of Louisa May Alcott's novel, "Little Women"will be hitting theaters on Friday, September 28, 2018! "Little Women" is a warm-hearted, modern retelling of the beloved novel.

"Love is the only thing that we can carry with us when we go, 

and it makes the end so easy."

Louisa May Alcott

The classic story is being brought to the screen with a present day twist. Lea Thompson and Lucas Grabeel (both from "Switched at Birth") are starring in this movie as Marmee and Laurie.

I was nervous about a modern retelling of the classic novel, but after watching the trailer I am excited to see it. I've always thought that the 1994 movie of "Little Women" was so well done that it couldn't possibly be improved upon. That being said, I think this version will be enough of a change with its modern day setting that I hope it will be a hit as well.

"Little Women" is in theaters September 28, 2018 and looks to be a great movie. Keep in mind the rating is PG 13 (for thematic elements and teen drinking).

Although I haven't seen the movie yet, I expect that the themes of family, love, and following your dreams will come shining through. I am looking forward to seeing this movie with my daughter, but I bet it will be one my son and husband will want to see too.

Check out: 

"Little Women" Official Website to find a theater and to learn more about the movie and the cast.

"Little Women" Blog has interesting articles and a number of quotes by Louisa May Alcott!

"Little Women" Facebook Page has photos, quotes, and videos.

Win it: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader (US only) will win movie tickets for two to see the movie "Little Women" in theaters! (2 Fandango discount code tickets). If a Canadian were willing to cross the border to see the movie at a US theater that would work too.

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Disclosure: Thanks to 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 ~❀~

Zubits Magnetic Shoe Closures

I am so excited to tell you about Zubits magnetic shoe closures -- a truly amazing invention! 

"Never tie laces again!"

* My son, Elijah (12 years old), is an avid boot wearer. He hates shoelaces so much that he has literally worn his winter boots for over a year and a half -- even through the hottest days of summer. 

We've unsuccessfully tried other no-tie solutions with Elijah in the past including weaving his shoelaces 80's style. Elijah's reaction when he tried the Zubits was: "Oh my goodness -- these actually work and they're so cool!" He was quick to show his Zubits off to all his friends (and the winter boots have been sent into storage!).

The only time the Zubits didn't stay closed for Elijah was when he jumped off the swings at the park, but it was just a simple click to close them up again!

* My husband, Ernie, had a stroke at the age of 33 and is permanently disabled. He has great days where he is capable of impressive martial arts moves and long distances runs, but he also has days where he can barely walk straight, never mind tie his own shoes. Zubits proved effective for both the good and the bad days. 

Ernie put the Zubits through rigorous testing -- biking, jogging, martial arts, and working out at the gym. I'm pleased to say that the Zubits were amazing.  

Here are my three stars and a wish for Zubits!

Ease of Use -- Once Zubits are installed they are super easy to use. Not only are you saving time putting your shoes on and taking them off, but there are no laces to trip over! An added bonus is your shoes can be magnetically stuck to one another in the closet so -- no more missing shoes either!

Long Lasting -- Zubits can be put on a new pair of shoes once your current shoes are worn out. As someone who wants everything I buy to last forever, I am so pleased that Zubits will last for shoe after shoe after shoe.

Strength --  Zubits hold up under all circumstances thanks to the super strong magnets. Your shoes will be securely and comfortably fastened during all sorts of activities.  

My wish for Zubits is that they were cheaper so we could have a set for every shoe in the house! But, Zubits does have a special offer right now where if you buy 3 or more Zubits you can get $10 off!






Check out Zubits to purchase some Zubits of your own. The website also has videos, tips and tricks, and a FAQ section. 

Win it: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a pair of Zubits! (The winner can pick the size and colour of Zubits they like best.)

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Disclosure: I was given two pairs of Zubits in exchange for my honest opinion. 
~❀~ 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 ~❀~

SketchyDez Custom Character Design Giveaway

Have you ever thought of a cartoon character you wish existed? Do you know a birthday girl or boy who would love to be drawn in the style of their favourite character? Maybe you would like to see your favourite character in casual clothes, in a unique pose or holding a certain accessory?

SketchyDez is a 13 year old artist who specializes in creating art of custom cartoon characters or art of beloved characters in different clothes or poses.

Check out:

Some of the themes that SketchyDez specializes in:

My Little Pony Equestria Girls

Mario Characters and Princesses

Manga

Mermaids

Super Heroes

Tinkerbell / fairies

Splatoon

Harley Quinn / Poison Ivy

Buy it: Visit SketchyDez Etsy Shop to order custom artwork. Click on the Custom Cartoon Character listing and then browse through by clicking the arrow to see more examples.

Win it: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a custom work of art. An American or Canadian winner will win a hardcopy of the art or a digital copy of the art. An International winner will win a digital copy of the art only.

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Please note that SketchyDez has the right to refuse custom requests (even the request of the giveaway winner!) and she does not do creepy or inappropriate themes. This is at her discretion.

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"Same Kind of Different as Me" Movie Giveaway

"Same Kind of Different as Me" is an uplifting movie that is based on a true story. Releasing nationwide on Friday, October, 20, 2017 "Same Kind of Different as Me" is a heartwarming movie that is recommended for ages 13 and up.

CHANGE YOUR WORLD! 
...WITH ONE SIMPLE ACT OF KINDNESS

Greg Kinnear (least known for "Stuck on You"), Renee Zellweger (who portrayed Beatrix Potter in "Miss Potter"), and Djimon Hounsou (voice of Drago in "How to Train Your Dragon" 2 and 3) lead the cast in this movie. With excellent acting and strong emotions, "Same Kind of Different as Me" is sure to make an impression on you.

In "Same Kind of Different as Me" Debbie Hall, a woman with a heart of gold, has a dream about a homeless man that she feels compelled to find and befriend. Ron, her husband, is a self-absorbed art dealer who is on the verge of leaving their marriage. Can Ron and Debbie find this mysterious homeless man and if so, what kind of a difference will it make?

Thanks to an invitation by the Pure Flix team, my husband and I were able to pre-screen the movie "Same Kind of Different as Me". We loved that the movie leaves you with such a strong sense of hope. Throughout the movie Ron, Debbie and Denver make a difference in the lives of one another and in the lives of the people around them. Hopefully this movie will inspire you to make a difference, however small it may seem at first, in the life of another person.

Check out:

"Same Kind of Different as Me" Official Film Site has videos, information about the movie and cast as well as more inspiration for making a difference in the lives of others!

"Same Kind of Different as Me" Official Film Blog has excerpts from the book of the same name as well as posts on topics such as: the immeasurable worth of each person and keys to a healthy relationship.

"Same Kind of Different as Me" Facebook Page has photos, interviews and behind-the-scenes clips. Check out interviews with the real Ron Hall!

Buy it: Visit "Same Kind of Different as Me" 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 "Same Kind of Different as Me" in theaters! (2 Fandango discount code tickets).

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Disclosure: Thanks to LEV3L and Pure Flix, 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"

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"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 ~❀~

"All Things Bright and Beautiful" Book Giveaway

"All Things Bright and Beautiful" written by Cecil Frances Alexander and illustrated by Kathy Hudson, is a beautiful hardcover book that is sure to bless anyone who reads it.

"All Things Bright and Beautiful" was originally a hymn published in 1848.  This hymn is one that I sang when I was in a children's choir and so this was a special book to share with my own children.

"How great is God Almighty,

Who has made all things well."

The illustrations by Katy Hudson are adorable and show three kids enjoying God's creation.  The children see many beautiful animals and flowers throughout the day as they play in the sun and wind.  The end of the book shows nocturnal animals as the family goes to sleep in their tent.  You can't help but feel appreciative of all that God has given us when you read this book.

This book is 'bright' and 'beautiful' and highlights the amazing creation all around us.  

Buy It:  You can buy "All Things Bright and Beautiful" on Amazon

Win it:  One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the book "All Things Bright and Beautiful".

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"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 ~❀~

"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".

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"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 ~❀~

"Rasmus and the Vagabond" Novel Giveaway

"Rasmus and the Vagabond" is a novel by Astrid Lindgren -- the Swedish author of the beloved Pippi Longstocking books. 

Rasmus is a young boy living at an orphanage who is longing to be loved.  When a mishap at the orphanage causes Rasmus to fear he'll get a beating from the stern directress, he makes the decision to run away in search of a family who will love him.    

I really enjoyed the part of this novel that described Rasmus' life at the orphanage -- the relationships between the kids, the chores they are required to do and the adoption process: "They always pick girls with curly hair".  The highlights of Rasmus' experience at the orphanage are his friendship with another orphan, Gunnar, and his finding special treasures -- a 5 cent piece and a beautiful shell.  

Eventually, Rasmus meets up with Oscar, a traveling vagabond, and together they have adventures, help others and solve a mystery. 

My biggest concern with the novel is the songs that Oscar sings.  The lyrics feature stories about people being cut, clawed to death by lions or bathed in their own blood.  Mention is also made about a ghost dog, but the book clearly states "There are no such things as ghosts." 

Aside from the songs, this novel is a fun, lighthearted novel complete with adventure and mystery.  The illustrations are delightful and Rasmus is such a sweet boy that readers are sure to fall in love with him and with Oscar, the kind vagabond he meets on his journey.  

Will Rasmus' dream of finding a home of his own and a family to love him come true?  You'll have to read "Rasmus and the Vagabond" to find out!

Check out: "Rasmus and the Vagabond" for more information.

Win it:  One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the book "Rasmus and the Vagabond".

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"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 ~❀~

"Growing Up Social" Giveaway

"Growing Up Social" by Gary Chapman and Arlene Pellicane is a book for any parent who wants to be "raising relational kids in a screen-driven world."

"There is no app or video game that can replace interactions with other human beings."  Relating to others, eye contact, conversation, empathy, getting along with others -- these are key characteristics that we all need in order to function effectively with others in our world.

BUT -- "The average American child and teenager spends 53 hours a week with media and technology, far more time in front of screens than interacting with parents or people."  That's a full time job plus some overtime!  And what is the payout?  Entitlement, low attention span and lack of patience are all results of excessive screen time.

The book makes some obvious screen-related recommendations like "no more than 2 hours a day of screen time"and then goes on to explain things such as: ways to encourage creative play (get your kids a cardboard box!) and ways to increase a love of reading.

"Growing Up Social" highlights five A+ skills that are learned abilities that will instill character in your child (and in yourself):

Show Affection, Appreciate others, deal with Anger, 

learn to Apologize and pay Attention

As I was reading the book I summarized what I was reading to my kids and these A+ skills were a great conversation starter.  We talked about which ones we each needed to focus on the most -- recognizing that we all have strengths and weaknesses.

"Bonus Features" throughout the book include a Screen Time Family Pledge that will be an amazing springboard for family discussions.  There is also a quiz that can help you identify whether or not your child has too much screen time based on his/her behaviours.  The book even has a chapter that focuses on your own screen time and highlights the idea that we should model appropriate use of screen time for our children.

Anyone who has enjoyed Gary Chapman's "The 5 Love Languages" will appreciate this book by Gary Chapman and Arlene Pellicane.  You'll find this book inspiring and encouraging!

Check out: "Growing Up Social" Official Website
"Growing Up Social" Book Trailer

Win it:  One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the book "Growing Up Social".

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"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 ~❀~

"Alone, Yet Not Alone" Novel Giveaway

"Alone, Yet Not Alone" by Tracy Leininger Craven is based on the true story of two young sisters who are captured by Allegheny warriors during the Penn's Creek Massacre of 1755.

The Leininger family immigrated from Germany to escape religious persecution and start a new life in Pennsylvania.  Little did they know that their lives were going to be turned upside down.  The novel "Alone, Yet Not Alone" tells the story of the capture of Barbara and Regina Leininger (ages 12 and 9 at the time) and how "their faith became their freedom."

The message of faith comes through in the novel loud and clear.  Barbara believes they can make it through with Christ's strength and that no matter what happens their faith in Jesus Christ can never be taken away from them.

Barbara reassures her younger sister, Regina: "God will always be with us - even in our most difficult trials."  Unfortunately the sisters are separated.  Barbara is left clinging to the hope that her sister's faith will remain strong and that she will not lose the song in her heart: "Alone, yet not alone."

This novel is an easy read and is aimed at pre-teens.  Keep in mind that it has some mature themes that may not be appropriate for all readers -- although those scenes are not described very graphically.

This novel is a "Special Movie Edition" and so it also includes photos from the movie which came out this summer.  Here is a look at the trailer for those who have yet to see the movie:

Some interesting topics for discussion include the origin of the world according to the Allegheny people and their spiritual beliefs.

The novel has a strong emphasis on the need for a Saviour and on the redemptive power of Jesus' blood.  Tracy Leininger Craven states: "It is my prayer that those who read this book will be encouraged to run the race of life with undaunted faith and endurance -- drawing strength from the author and finisher of our faith, Jesus Christ."

Check out:
Alone, Yet Not Alone Website

Win it:  One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the book "Alone, Yet Not Alone".

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Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book from Media Connect in exchange for my honest opinion.

~❀~ Chelsey ~❀~

"Persecuted" Novel Giveaway

"Persecuted", by Robin Parrish is a novelization of the upcoming Daniel Lusko film which will be in theaters this summer.

John Luther is an evangelist who ultimately wants to share the Gospel.  John's ministry is built on the message of redemption.  He unashamedly states he is a sinner saved by grace and transparently shares that has made numerous mistakes in his past.

But, John's past comes back to haunt him when his reputation is brought into question by those hoping to destroy his ministry.  John is asked to give his support for a new religious equality bill.  When he refuses to endorse this bill, the powers that be decide to frame him for murder to get him out of the way.  John becomes a fugitive as he searches for the truth to clear his name.

Once I got past the prologue -- which focuses on the assassin's point of view -- the rest of the novel was more to my liking.  The novel has flashback chapters that highlight John's troubled past, his tumultuous relationship with his father and his conversion.  These flashback chapters give insight into the present day and to the current circumstances.

Overall this novel was thought-provoking in that it deals with standing up for the Truth no matter the cost and the touchy issue of tolerance-turned-equality.  One of the antagonist of the novel declares: "... Christians and Jews and Muslims standing together in solidarity... this is the future of our evolution in this nation..."  But, loving others (as the Bible instructs us to) and joining with other faiths in solidarity are not the same.

I've heard so much about tolerance lately -- for everyone, but Christians that is.  Christians should not be accused of intolerance because we hold fast to what we believe and to what God's Word says is the Truth.  Hopefully this novel will inspire Christians to be prepared to stand up for Jesus and for the redemptive power of His death and resurrection.

The novel is full of action and suspense and I look forward to seeing the movie when it come out.

"The question is not if attempts will be made 

to limit religious freedoms, 

but when.  

And when that day comes, 

will you stay silent?"

Check Out: 
Persecuted -- The Movie -- Coming to theaters July 18, 2014
Persecuted on Facebook

Win it:  One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the book "Persecuted".

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 ~❀~

"1 Girl Nation" CD Giveaway

Hi, I'm Desiree.  I am 10 years old and I am writing a review on this cd.  I like this cd because it has Christian songs about Jesus.  

My favourite song is "While We're Young" because it has a good beat and good lyrics.  The moral is that it's better to believe in Jesus while you're young instead of waiting till you're older so you can save yourself from the heartache of sin.

Here are some of the lyrics:

We’re gonna save ourselves the heartache 

We’re not looking back on what we wished we’d done 

We’re gonna risk it all for one thing 

And live for Jesus while we’re young  

What I dislike about One Girl Nation is I think that the way that they dress is super modelish.  Also I don't like the way they act in the music video.  I would prefer if they were acting normal and wore regular clothes.  

I like the songs on the cd, but I don't like the cd cover.  

I think this cd would be good for girls my age.  I hope you like it too.  Goodbye.

Buy It:  You can buy 1 Girl Nation via LifeWay Christian Stores -- on sale now!

Win It: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the CD 1 Girl Nation!

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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 225: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsement and Testimonials in Advertising."

Complete Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy

~ Desiree ~

"Audrey Bunny" Giveaway

Audrey Bunny, written by Angie Smith and illustrated by Breezy Brookshire, is a delightful picture book about a young girl and the bunny she loves, but at the heart of this simple story there is a message that means so much more...

Audrey is a stuffed bunny who is continually passed over at the toy store because of a smudge over her heart.  She fears her imperfection means that no one will ever pick her.  When she is finally chosen by a young girl she feels she needs to hide her imperfection so as not to be found out.

Ultimately Audrey Bunny and the reader learn that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by God  (Psalm 139:14) and He loves us -- imperfections and all.

This book is heartwarming and beautifully illustrated.  The back of the book even contains a Parent Connection page which includes additional verses, discussion questions and an activity.  This book is sure to become a much loved favourite.

Check Out the Audrey Bunny Book Trailer on youtube

Buy It: You can buy Audrey Bunny via B&H Kids 

Win It: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the hardcover book Audrey Bunny. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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 225: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsement and Testimonials in Advertising."

Complete Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy

~ Chelsey ~

"Can't Wait Willow" Giveaway

Can't Wait Willow, written by Christy Ziglar and beautifully illustrated by Luanne Marten, is the story of a young girl who learns an important life lesson through the gift of a second chance.

Willow has a hard time saying 'no' to various distractions on her way to the Over-the-Top Circus.  When she arrives late and has no money left, Willow realizes that she can't enjoy the Circus or the cotton candy she was so looking forward to.

The purpose of the story is to get children to think beyond instant gratification and see how their current decisions have consequences later.  The moral is: "Sometimes you've got to say 'no' to the good, so you can say 'yes' to the best."  Thankfully, the man who shares the moral also offers Willow grace in the form of a ticket for tomorrow's show and the circus is everything Willow imagined it would be and more...

A neat feature of the book is the little star on each page that helps parent and child to discuss the choices Willow makes along her journey.  Talking about consequences and how one decision impacts another can help children make more thoughtful choices in their own lives.

Can't Wait Willow is the first book from Shine Bright Kids -- a book series that provides children and their families the opportunity to discuss key life skills through the sweet stories of Willow and her friends.

Check Out: Shine Bright Kids for games and resources and to sign up for the newsletter.  

  

Buy It: You can buy Can't Wait Willow via Barnes and Noble. 

Win It: One Sowing Dandelion Seeds reader will win a copy of the hardcover book Can't Wait Willow. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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 225: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsement and Testimonials in Advertising."

Complete Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy

~ Chelsey ~