Can't-Wait Willow! On Tour And A Giveaway

There’s something about children’s books that always brings a smile to my face. While I don’t have children of my own to share them with, I think it’s just knowing that the next generation (and the next) will still have wonderful books to read and enjoy.

Today I definitely have a book that will bring a smile to your face and that of your youngsters’. It’s entitled, Can’t-Wait Willow! and it’s the first in a new series that promises to be both educational and entertaining for children. Thanks to the great folks at Propeller, I have a print copy to giveaway (more on that at the end of the post). Since this is a promotional tour for the book, I’ll also include some additional information after my review.

But first up, Propeller advises that due to the new FTC Policy (March 2013) the following disclosure should be placed at the top of my review in order to clearly disclose material connections that would not be obvious to the readers in each of my posts.

Can't-Wait Willow! By Christy Ziglar

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in 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."

We all find it hard to say no sometimes, especially to things that we really want or enjoy doing. For youngsters, that decision can be even harder if they don’t understand the difference between bad, good and great choices.

Willow has been dreaming of eating pink cotton candy at the Over-the-Top Circus when it comes to town. The big day has finally arrived and she’s excited as she heads to the circus. However, along the way she stops to enjoy a few of her favorite treats and activities.

When she finally arrives at the big tent, she discovers she has spent all of her money and the circus is closing for the night. She doesn’t even have enough money for one pink cotton candy treat.

A helpful man from the circus intervenes, giving Willow a second chance to enjoy the circus. Willow remembers the advice he gives her as she makes her way back to the circus the next day. She comes to understand that while she might enjoy the fun along the route to the circus, she has to say no to some good things to be able to get to the great things.

Author Christy Ziglar has done an excellent job blending elements together to help parents teach youngsters how to make good choices when faced with so many things they want. The story is fun and shows that waiting is sometimes the best choice.

Illustrator Luanne Marten brings the story to life with her beautiful drawings. The charming illustrations are colorful, bold and eye-catching. The ‘star search’ throughout the story is added touch that will keep youngsters glued to the pages.

Can't-Wait Willow! is the first installment in the Shine Bright Kids series, which is designed to help families provide solid values when teaching youngsters the importance of making good choices. The principles that will be explored include: using good judgment, taking responsibility, having a positive attitude, and demonstrating perseverance.

This is an enchanting book and great start of a delightful new series to inspire, educate and entertain youngsters. Can't-Wait Willow! is a fun way to show youngsters that saying yes to everything can lead to missing out on what they want most.

Can't-Wait Willow! By Christy Ziglar, Book One of Shine Bright Kids Series, Illustrated by Luanne Marten, Ideals Children’s Books, @2013, ISBN: 978-0824956486, Hardcover with Jacket, 32 Pages, Ages 4 to 8

MORE INFORMATION:
Now, I mentioned earlier that I would share some additional information with you - including the guidelines for a wonderful giveaway.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 
Does the last name Ziglar sound familiar? While author Christy Ziglar, financial planner and mother of twins, is the niece of legendary motivator and the world’s original optimist, Zig Ziglar. She is bringing the same timeless wisdom and ageless advice to an entirely new, younger audience through her new Shine Bright Kids picture book series. 

The author's website has great resources to support the book, including a printable poster with 'Ways to Shine Bright,' as well as reward chart you can use at home with your children. For more information and fun ideas, visit: http://www.alwaysshinebright.com
  
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:
Thanks to her first grade teacher, who recognized her superior skills in drawing a robin, Luanne Marten has been drawing, painting and sketching ever since. She is a great experimenter and has a fresh, whimsical approach to bring her characters to life.

Additional information about the book and new series can be found on the publisher’s website at http://www.idealsbooks.com and on their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/IdealsBooks

Now for the giveaway guidelines. To enter, send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with the subject line, “Win Can’t-Wait Willow.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The contest is open internationally. Just so you know, I don’t share this information with anyone other than the publisher nor use it for any other purpose. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance to win a copy of Can't-Wait Willow! is 8 p.m. (EDT) on Wednesday, May 15.

Thank you for dropping by today. Hope your week is going as planned. I’d like to leave you with a book trailer from Can't-Wait Willow! to enjoy. Have a great day and remember to smile!

Can't-Wait Willow! from Ideals Children's Books from Ideals Books on Vimeo.

Sunday Salon: The Little House That Stood

Photo from Nassau Happening

Can you believe we have already arrived at the first Sunday Salon of March? With the way the weather has been lately, it’s hard to think it won’t be long until Spring.

Today as we relax and enjoy Sunday Salon, I have something a little different to share you with. Instead of telling you about an intriguing new book, I want to tell you about a charming DVD for youngsters that will be released this week. 

VeggieTales has a new title coming out, The Little House That Stood. Thanks to Hope and the great folks at Flyby Promotions/Propeller, I have a copy of this DVD to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for the guidelines. Now make sure your favorite beverage is handy, find a comfortable chair and relax.

Veggie Tales: The Little House That Stood

This delightful DVD  teaches a lesson about making good choices through the parable of ’The Wise and Foolish Builders’ from Matthew 7 combined with fairy tales. It tells the story of three builders who used different supplies to build homes - hay, bricks and sticks - with only one building on a strong foundation. The story explains why a strong foundation is needed in daily living as well.

The classic tale of Humpty Dumpty is also retold in ‘The Good Egg of Gooseville.’ This story deals with neighbors helping neighbors and the fact that one person can’t solve everyone’s problems.

The DVD also features a silly new song, ‘Happy Tooth Day.’ It will have youngsters smiling and possibly even thinking about brushing more. It’s a catchy little tune that will remain with you long after the DVD ends. In addition, there are numerous other bonus features such as the history of Mother Goose, ‘Lend A Little Hand’ sing-along, a discussion guide, and much more.

VeggieTales: The Little House That Stood puts a new spin on some classic fairy tales and incorporates parables from the Bible. This 49-minute DVD will delight youngsters of all ages (including adults) as it brings vegetables to life, reinforces moral values, and provides countless moments of laughter. 
  
VeggieTales: The Little House That Stood, Big Idea, @2013, ASIN: B00AKB8PN8, 1 Disc, Run Time: 49 Minutes

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in 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."

For more on the VeggieTales and this new release coming Tuesday, March 5, visit the website and find them on Facebook and Twitter.

Now for the giveaway guidelines. To enter this giveaway, send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with the subject line, “Win VeggieTales.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The contest is open internationally. And, just so you know, I don’t share this information with anyone other than the publisher/promoter nor use it for any other purpose. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance to win the DVD copy of VeggieTales: The Little House That Stood is 8 p.m. (EST) on Sunday, March 10.

In case you’re not familiar with VeggieTales, here’s a cute trailer to watch that will give you a bit more insight into the DVD. Hope it makes you smile.



Thanks for stopping by today. What books have you read or maybe you have a seen a DVD you’d like to share.

Abel’s Field (& A Giveaway)

Always on the lookout for good movies, I was delighted to be able to participate in Propeller’s movie review promotion for ABEL’S FIELD.

An added bonus of the promotion is that, thanks to Hope and the great folks at Propeller, I have a copy of the DVD to giveaway to a lucky visitor. Please see the end of the post for the guidelines.

ABEL’S FIELD

ABEL’S FIELD moves at a slow, but steady pace as it deals with redemption, compassion, and second chances. The story draws you in and you can’t look away until the final outcome.

Samuel Davis portrays 17-year-old Seth McArdie who is dealing with way more than a teenager should have to. He cares for his young twin sisters, works three jobs, and attends high school. His mother is deceased and his father has abandoned the family.

At school Seth is faced with a bully of a football quarterback. The coach, obsessed with winning and football, has blinders on when it comes to his team thus making life even harder for Seth. For defending himself, Seth is punished by being assigned to help the new groundskeeper Abel (Kevin Sorbo) install a new sprinkler system for the football field.

Abel is quiet and keeps to himself. Gradually a bond develops between the two. When Seth’s world starts falling apart, he turns to Abel only to feel let down again. But when Seth turns to desperate measures, Abel is the only one who can set him on the right path.

This is a heart-wrenching story that brought me to tears. Samuel Davis does an excellent job in his portrayal of Seth and his hardships. He makes you feel his pain and desperation. Kevin Sorbo brings his excellent skills into play as he portrays a brooding man haunted by his past and his actions as he searches for redemption.

ABEL’S FIELD shows the plight that unfortunately strikes families as they struggle to survive in difficult economic times without stable family support. I felt a range of emotions for Seth and his journey (sadness, hope and joy), as well as for Abel (hope and understanding). 

The movie is rated PG and can (and should) be viewed by the entire family. It deals with family, friendship, coping, and finding the right path when all is lost. A heartfelt featurette about making the movie is also included. It gives in-depth understanding of the story, the setting and the actors.

ABEL’S FIELD is an inspiring story that will tug at your heartstrings.

Abel's Field, Starring Kevin Sorbo and Samuel Davis, AFFIRM Films/Provident Films, Sony Pictures Home Entertainment, @2012, ASIN: B009XJVKKS, 1 Disc, Run Time: 104 Minutes

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in 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."

Now for the giveaway guidelines. To enter, send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with the subject line, “Win Abel‘s Field.” Your message should include your name and mailing address. The contest is open international, but no post office box addresses can be accepted. And, just so you know, I don’t share this information with anyone other than the publisher nor use it for any other purpose. The deadline to enter this giveaway for a chance to win a DVD copy of ABEL’S FIELD is 8 p.m. (EST) on Saturday, Feb. 2.

To learn more about the movie, visit the website, and find it on Facebook and Twitter.

Thanks so much for stopping by. Do you enjoy inspiring movies such as this? Do you have a favorite you’d like to share with us?

Album Release And Giveaway

When it comes to music, I’m not one to know the ins and outs - only if I like it or not.

I’m a child of the 60s rock’n roll, but with age I have found classical is safer for me to listen to when driving. I once lost the top of a huge ice maker while driving to a soundtrack - don’t ask.

When I think of gospel music, I’m reminded of the Southern Baptist hymns of my raising. While I now appreciate the slower melodies, in my youth it was the ones with a bit more temp that I liked. I’ve discovered a soon-to-be released album that was a pleasant surprise to my listening experience.

Singer-songwriter Kyle Sherman will be releasing his first faith-based album on Tuesday (Oct. 9). HEAR ME is a contemporary gospel album with an authentic mix of rootsy, Southern soul. The songs are an eclectic mix. There are slow melodies, as well as uplifting, toe-tapping, get-you-on-your-feet tunes.
 
Thanks to Kyle and the good folks at Propeller, I have one CD of HEAR ME to giveaway to one lucky visitor who comments on this post by 8 p.m. (EST) on Monday, Oct. 15. Be sure to leave your email address with your comments, if it’s not included in your profile.

Kyle was a full-time worship leader at the Lifechurch.tv campus in Fort Worth (TX) under renowned pastor/author Craig Groeschel. He recently signed on as the flagship artist to the brand new label RayLynn Records, an opportunity that presented itself during a time period when a record deal wasn't even on his radar. 

"It's crazy how God works," Kyle says. 'Five years ago, I pushed pretty hard to do my own thing as a singer-songwriter, but every well I approached would dry up. It clearly wasn't the right time." 

Just three years later Kyle made it back to Nashville, pouring his heart into a microphone at Sony studio with veteran producer and country singer-songwriter Mark Collie making his first album. HEAR ME  is the result of those sessions.

For samples of Kyle’s music, check out his website. You can also find me on Facebook and Twitter.

I’ve included a clip from YouTube where Kyle talks about what’s behind one of his songs, The Greatest Tear.

 

Music has been in the air a lot lately. What type of music do you like? Do you listen to only one type or does it depend on what mood you’re in? Thanks so much for stopping by. Remember to comment for a chance to win a copy of HEAR ME.

Sunday Salon: A Game Show, A Book, A Giveaway

Here we are back enjoying another Sunday Salon where we discuss the latest books we’ve discovered and read. Make sure your cup is filled with your favorite beverage, get comfortable and relax.

Today I’m going to be a bit different and give you my thoughts on an upcoming new game show. Now wait before you click off, it does involve a book - the Bible. You see the new game show is THE AMERICAN BIBLE CHALLENGE which premieres on the Game Show Network at 8/7c Thursday, Aug. 23. It will be hosted by Jeff Foxworthy. 

In addition to telling you about this intriguing new show, I also have a giveaway to offer. Thanks to the good folks at FlyBy Promotions/Propeller, I have a THE AMERICAN BIBLE CHALLENGE tee shirt and a Zondervan Quest Bible to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for the guidelines.

First a little about the show and the host. Comedian and author, Jeff Foxworthy hosts this studio-based game in which contestants compete based on their knowledge of the Bible. Utilizing current, as well as historical references, questions will be drawn from the rich, dense narrative found in the world's best-selling book. The contestants will share their compelling back-stories and each team will be playing for a charitable organization. 

THE AMERICAN BIBLE CHALLENGE is produced by RelativityREAL for GSN, with RelativityREAL’s Tom Forman (“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”) and Embassy Row’s Michael Davies ("The Newlywed Game," "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire") serving as Executive Producers on the project. Nick Stuart and Maura Dunbar of Odyssey Networks are Consulting Producers.

Comedian Jeff Foxworthy is the largest selling comedy-recording artist in history, a multiple Grammy® Award nominee and the best-selling author of 11 books. Widely known for his redneck jokes, his act goes beyond that to explore the humor in everyday family interactions and human nature. 

Even though the show doesn’t air until later this week, I was fortunate to watch a sneak preview video of it. So here are my thoughts on it.

While this game show is faith-based, it is also fun, entertaining, informative, and provides funds for worthy causes. It’s a show the entire family can watch together and play along at home. It takes facts from the Bible and uses them in trivia-type questions with teams competing against each other for cash prizes not for themselves, but for their favorite charity or ministry. The subject matter is handled with respect and done in a manner that is fun and enlightening, but not overbearing. 

The teams have fun names like Drama Mamas, Minnie’s Food Pantry, Suburban Saints, Gospel Geezer, and Victorious Secret. Some of the categories will include: Biblical Greeting Cards, Man Has Fallen And He Can’t Get Up, My Tweet Lord, The Real Housewives of the O.T., and Jesus Christ Superstar Wars. There is also a small choir that provides uplifting musical interludes throughout the show.

Jeff Foxworthy as the show’s host just adds another layer of entertainment to the mix. He combines humor with the questions keeping the contestants and audience laughing throughout the show. 

THE AMERICAN BIBLE CHALLENGE is a fun way to spend some quality time with your family, have a few laughs, share a bit of knowledge, and cheer for a deserving charity.

For more about the new game show visit their website at http://gsntv.com/shows/the-american-bible-challenge/, find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/theamericanbiblechallenge, and on Twitter at #TheAmericanBibleChallenge and @GSN.

To view a trailer about the game show to give you an idea of what to expect click on this link.

Now the giveaway guidelines. To enter, just leave a comment (with your email address) by 8 p.m. (EST) Sunday, Aug. 26. Tell us if you enjoy watching game shows, if so which one(s). Do you plan to watch this show? If it’s after Thursday, did you watch this show and what are your thoughts on it? As always, thanks so much for stopping by and spending a little time with us. Hope your Sunday is calm and enjoyable. May you have many books to read and listen to this week.

* FTC Notice Per FlyBy Promotions/Propeller: 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."

A Mile In His Shoes Review

Remember we’ve talked about variety being the spice of life?

Well today is no exception. I’m sharing my thoughts on a DVD movie. While the movie recently aired on TV, I missed it and was glad to find that it had been released this month on DVD. One of the main reasons I wanted to see it is because it’s based on a true story.

Here’s a brief description of A MILES IN HIS SHOES: From the director of "Angels In the Outfield" comes an inspiring story about a special boy with an amazing gift, and the coach who believed. Dean Cain and Luke Schroder star in the gmc movie based on the book "The Legend of Mickey Tussler". 

Thanks to the good folks at Propeller (where ideas take flight), I have a copy of A MILE IN HIS SHOES to offer as a giveaway. Just leave a comment on this post by 8 p.m. (EST) on Wednesday, Jan. 25, to be entered. Be sure to leave your e-mail address with your comments, if it’s not included in your profile. Now my thoughts.

A MILE IN HIS SHOES

Coach Arthur ‘Murph’ Murphy (Dean Cain) badly needs help to keep his struggling minor league baseball team going. On his way to find new talent for the team, Murphy encounters a young farm boy named Mickey (Luke Schroder).

Murphy quickly realizes Mickey has an incredible pitching arm. He’s perfect for the team, but Mickey’s parents don’t agree. Mickey has Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism.

Murphy finally convinces the parents of the benefits and Mickey is allowed to join the team. However, the team also received benefits. Not only is Mickey’s pitching ability helpful, but he also inspires new spirit in the team.

This is a touching story of how our lives are sometimes taken in different directions than we had expected. The story deals with determination, faith, courage, and the wonderful power of friendship. It’s inspiring.

I have enjoyed watching Dean Cain’s performances since his days as Superman on Lois and Clark. His portrayal of Murphy was another great performance with depth. He plays Murphy with great emotions causing viewers to feel his hope and determination. 

Schroder’s portrayal of Mickey is heartwarming and touching. He does an excellent job showing the problems Mickey faced while dealing with his Asperger’s syndrome.

Even if you’re not a sports fan, A MILE IN HIS SHOES is a delightful movie to watch and add to your DVD library.

The movie is rated PG (some mild thematic elements). The DVD contains special features: The Making of A Mile In His Shoes, the movie trailer, and a Thomas Kinkade Painting Gallery.

For more on the movie, check out the website, find it on Facebook, and watch a clip on Youtube.

A Mile In His Shoes Starring Dean Cain and Luke Schroder, Thomas Kinkade and Nasser Group North, @2011, ASIN: B0055QRYEG, 1 DVD, Listening Time 1 Hour, 29 Minutes 

FTC Full 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.

Have you seen the movie? Do you enjoy inspiring, ‘feel-good’ movies? Thanks so much for stopping by.