Pirate's Code: The Adventures of Mickey Matson DVD Review & GIVEAWAY

Movie Night!  Pop the popcorn and get cozy with your family.  Here is another family friendly movie for you to enjoy.  Pirate's Code:  The Adventures of Mickey Matson is an adventure filled movie with plenty of slap-stick humor.  Here is a little ditty about the movie:

In this follow up to Mickey Matson and the Copperhead Treasure, Mickey Matson is at it again; this time pitted against the evil Admiral Ironsides and his gang of pirates who are intent on destroying civilization.  They're new invetnion, the Tesla Coil, is a weapon of mass destruction that will send an electromagnetic pulse throughout the world, destroying every electronic device in existence.  With the help of a secret organization, Mickey and his best friend Sully embark on a mission to stop the pirates from taking over a submarine and stealing the last part needed to complete their devastating weapon.  If Admiral Ironsides succeeds in his plan, civilization will be sent back to the Stone Age.  It's a race against time, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance. 

My son and I watched this together and both agreed that it was reminiscent of the Spy Kid movie.  Expect adventure, quick humor, and silly mishaps.  It's hard to find good, family movies these days, and this one definitely fits the bill!  We both felt the target age was 12 and under, but older kids will still enjoy it....especially if there is popcorn involved.

I was sure you would like a sneak peek.  So, here is a trailer for your viewing pleasure...

Want to get more in the middle of all the social flutter on this movie?  Check out these links...

Twitter:  @MickeyMatson
Tweet your little heart out my blog peeps!   #PIRATESCODE and #FLYBY

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mickey-Matson/211224175604758?fref=ts

Official Website:  http://mickeymatson.com

It's always a plus when a book or movie is available on Christianbook.com and that's why I'm excited to tell you where you can buy Pirate's Code.  Follow this LINK to buy it for only $11.99

You can also enter to win it for FREE here!  Check it out...

"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. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

One lucky winner will receive a Pirate's Code DVD.  All entries must be received by midnight EST on Monday, June 29, 2015.  Entrants must be 18 or older to enter.   This giveaway is not connected to any social media site.  The winner will be contacted via e-mail and have 48 hours to respond.  If I don't hear back from you then I'll pick another winner, so mark your calendar and keep an eye out!  Get started now on Rafflecopter... 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Love Inspired ~ Christian Romance Fiction ~ Review & GIVEAWAY

Love is in the air!

And hope...and romance...and faith...and grace...and new beginnings...

If you love a good romance novel, then you know how hard it is to find one that lines up with a biblical lifestyle.  I have read a few that are Amish themed.  Don't get me wrong.  I loved them!  But, I really haven't come across any that were not Amish themed.  Until now.

Love Inspired books from Harlequin offer wholesome, faith based entertainment that nourishes the soul.  And, yes, some of their books are Amish themed.  The Love Inspired product line is a series of 6 books that are released every month.  Each month, a new selection of books is offered.  You can get these books in paperback, large print, or e-book.

For the purpose of this review, I received the 6 books being offered this month, April 21 - May 28.  It was difficult to choose which one to start reading first, but I decided on Bachelor to the Rescue by Lorraine Beatty.  I want you to get an idea of how beautifully written these books are, so HERE is a link to read an excerpt.

These books are the perfect size for easy reading.  It was small enough to fit comfortably in my purse.  They are right around 200-250 pages, which is a great length for an afternoon break while curled up on the couch with a mug of tea.

I enjoyed reading Bachelor to the Rescue.  It was romantic, without the cheesiness.  I wasn't embarrassed to keep turning the pages....come on, you know what I mean.  It was filled with love and inspiration....Hey!  Love Inspired!

I don't have a ton of time for leisure reading, but these were the perfect size and I look forward to exploring them over the summer.

You are going to love the price point on these books.  At Harlequin.com you can snag these books for $4.79.  Seriously? 

What's better than that price?  A coupon to go with it.

Want more information or to get in on all the excitement?  Check out Love Inspired on Facebook  and Twitter .   Now, a Our Homeschool Ohana review would not be complete without an awesome giveaway.  I'm telling  you, this one is awesome!  Check it out.

"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. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

One lucky winner will receive a set of 6 Love Inspired books.  All entries must be received by midnight EST on Saturday, May 9, 2015.  Entrants must be 18 or older to enter.   This giveaway is not connected to any social media site.  The winner will be contacted via e-mail and have 48 hours to respond.  If I don't hear back from you then I'll pick another winner, so mark your calendar and keep an eye out!  Get started now on Rafflecopter...
a Rafflecopter giveaway

gMovies Review & GIVEAWAY

Family friendly movies, animated stories, TV series, and biblical documentaries are what you will find at gMovies.  They have over 300 selections that are ready to stream on your computer or mobile device.  Dish customers can even use gMovies using an internet-connected Dish receiver, the Dish remote access app, or at dish.com.

No matter what genre you prefer, you can rest assured that what you will find at gMovies will be faith-based and family friendly.  gMovies is operated by UP, a two time award winner of the Entertainment Seal of Approval from the Parents Television Council.

Other movie and TV streaming services are $8-10 a month.  gMovies is only $4.99 a month!!  No contracts!  Cancel anytime. 

Now, let's talk real.  I have a teen son.  Quite honestly, the TV and movie selection from secular sources scares the jeepers out of me.  What will he come across?  Whether it be by accident, or as a result of a curious teen boy's mischievousness, there are way too many possibilities.  But, by handing over the log in information to our gMovies account, I can rest easy that whatever he picks will be just fine with me.  It's all good.  That, and the low monthly fee, is what I LOVE about gMovies.

The only thing I do not like is that.....there aren't enough movies and shows to choose from!  Ok, 300 selections will keep us busy for a long while, so is that really a negative?  Yeah, OK, I guess not.  I'm just wanting more, more, more!  Certainly, gMovies is adding more all the time and the more we support products and services like this, the more the entertainment industry will realize that there are thousands, or millions, of people who want it!

Want to get a FREE 2 week trial?  Click on THIS LINK and key in the code FREETRIAL83.  Yes, you will need to provide credit card information, however, if you decide not to continue this service after your FREE 2 week trial, just cancel before that two weeks is over.  It is simple.  But, I think you will fall in love with this product and won't even give that option a second thought.

Want to get a FREE 6 month subscription?  Enter my giveaway below!

"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.”

One lucky winner will receive a FREE 6 month subscription to gMovies.  All entries must be received by midnight EST on Saturday, April 25, 2015.  Entrants must be 18 or older to enter.   This giveaway is not connected to any social media site.  The winner will be contacted via e-mail and have 48 hours to respond.  If I don't hear back from you then I'll pick another winner, so mark your calendar and keep an eye out!  Get started now on Rafflecopter... a Rafflecopter giveaway

Rasmus and the Vagabond ~ Book Review & GIVEAWAY

I don't know anyone around my age who doesn't recall the wonderful adventures of Pippi Longstocking.  I wanted to be that freckle faced girl with the crazy outfits and wiry braids.  She was carefree and curious!  I had no idea that author, Astrid Lindgren, had also written Rasmus and the Vagabond, another classic literature story of a boy with the same heart for adventure, freedom, and the warmth of being loved. 

After running away from an orphanage, nine-year-old Rasmus finds the world a cold and unfriendly place until he befriends an extraordinary tramp called Paradise Oscar. Together they meet more adventure than they ever imagined, solve a mystery, and catch the culprits. Reassume dreams of finding a family and a home someday. But when he does, will he be able to part with his new friend and life on the road?

This 180 page, soft cover book is the perfect story for anyone age 8 and up.  Sure, places of advertisement may say ages 8-12, but I enjoyed the adventurous spirit, warmth, and hope-filled ending just like a middle school girl....and I'm, well, a lot older than 12.  This would be the perfect addition to any home library and as a gift for any child.  Don't worry if your child is not able to read it on his own!  Cuddle up on the couch and read to your kids, filling the words with excitement and life with your voice!  

Make your purchase at any of these great locations:

Amazon 

Barnes & Noble

IndieBound

"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.”

One lucky winner will receive a copy of their own Rasmus and the Vagabond.  All entries must be received by midnight EST on Friday, February 19, 2015.  Entrants must be 18 or older to enter.   This giveaway is not connected to any social media site.  The winner will be contacted via e-mail and have 48 hours to respond.  If I don't hear back from you then I'll pick another winner, so mark your calendar and keep an eye out!  Get started now on Rafflecopter...

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Nourished ~ Book Review & GIVEAWAY

I've taken a new stand on life, lately.  I'm eating much healthier and I'm exercising more.  I've even taken up jogging!  I never thought that at the age of 45 I would be jogging around my neighborhood and preparing for my black belt test in karate next month.  So, when I saw the word Nourished come through in an e-mail, it really caught my eye.  I suppose that's what I have been doing.  Nourishing my body with healthy food and exercise.  I've even been praying more and reading my Bible.  Still, things sort of felt imbalanced.  Stress, in a few areas, is still a big factor in my daily life and causes me to stumble on the walk that I know God has called me to take.  I needed nourishment in my soul; nourishment in my heart; nourishment in how I balance my life.

Along came Nourished by Becky Johnson and Rachel Randolph.  Becky and her daughter, Rachel, use humor, raw life stories, research, and a lifetime of wisdom to break down the ten most common stressors women face today.  I could relate to  all of them, some painfully more than others.  This mother-daughter duo are opposites in many ways and they share their hearts with honesty and vulnerability.  There is no candy coating here....they go right to the stuff that most of us would never share, never mind in a book for millions to read!  But, you'll laugh and cry right along with them, because you'll relate.  You'll relate to their struggles, their discoveries, and their desires.

My plan was to read this book, cover to cover, and write this review with a complete picture.  Yeah, that didn't happen.  I got through Chapter 7, At Home In Our Own Skin, and I put it down.  I stopped.  I mulled it over, meditating on the words I had just read.  For personal reasons, I quickly realized that I needed to read that one again.  I wanted to go back and nourish my soul with the healing words and inspiration.  After I did, I decided to go back to Chapter 5 and re-read Home Sweet Un-cluttered Home.  So, here I am , after traveling back again to 3 Chapters total now.  I'm moving forward into Chapter 8, finally!  Yes, I will finish the book, eventually.  But, I'm enjoying the journey and I don't mind stepping back.  Life is not a race and sometimes I need to have a second helping of some nourishing goodness.

You can purchase your own copy of Nourished at these locations:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Christianbook.com

"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.”

 One lucky winner will receive a copy of their own Nourished.  All entries must be received by midnight EST on Friday, February 13, 2015.  Entrants must be 18 or older to enter.   This giveaway is not connected to any social media site.  The winner will be contacted via e-mail and have 48 hours to respond.  If I don't hear back from you then I'll pick another winner, so mark your calendar and keep an eye out!  Get started now on Rafflecopter...

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Chocolate Covered Bacon Protein Shake (THM Deep S or FP)

I'm doing another THM Fuel Cycle this week and I decided that my Day 1 would have a theme....decadence.  So, for breakfast, I had Peanut Butter Chocolate Frosting.  Yeah, you read that correctly.  For lunch, I was going to make myself a chocolate protein shake, but then I got a buzz for bacon.  So, this is what I ended up creating....

Chocolate Covered Bacon Protein Shake

To make this a Deep S for my Day 1, I added 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil (solid).  But, if you want to keep this an FP then omit that.  Simple!  Um, yeah, I'll be having this as an FP on Day 4.

So, let's get down to business.  You'll notice that I put ranges for some measurements in the recipe.  Well, that's because I didn't really measure anything.  Make it to your taste and the consistency you like.  Gather your ingredients....

1 - 1.5 Cups of Almond Milk

1 scoop protein powder (I use a zero carb creamy vanilla one)

1/2 - 1 Cup cottage cheese - stick with 0% - 2% if this is an FP - omit if you don't like cottage cheese

2 Tbsp bacon crumbles

1 - 2 Tbsp coconut oil (solid)

splash of vanilla extrat

splash of maple extract - optional if you like that maple bacon flavor

pinch of salt

6-10 ice cubes (I make almond milk ice cubes so it doesn't get watered down)

1 - 2 Tbsp unsweeteened cocoa powder

2 squares broken up 85% or higher dark chocolate (use THM Skinny Chocolate if you have it)

sweetener to taste

Blend it all up and sprinkle a bit of bacon crumbles on top.  Enjoy!

A Love Letter from God ~ Book Review & GIVEAWAY

When I first became a Christian, a friend told me that the Bible was like a love letter from God.  In it, were all of His blessings, His promises, and His gifts.  It was the details of His love for us and it held all of the guidance we needed to live like Him and for Him.

When I was given the opportunity to read and review this children's book, A Love Letter from God by P.K. Hallinan, I jumped on it.  It brought back the memories of those beautiful words my friend shared with me about the Bible.  Ideals Books is one of my favorite publishers of children's stories.  I've never read a book from them that wasn't awesome and I knew this would be just as pleasing. 

When you sit down with your child to read A Love Letter from God, you will be immersed in a beautiful story of love from our Father.  Oh, what would he say to your little one if He wrote her a letter?

You are perfect in every way!

Your heart is a partial reflection of Me!

I'll lead you and feed you wherever you go!

I'll love you forever through all eternity!

The pages are thick and tear resistant - perfect for little hands.  Illustrator Laura Watson brings each page to life with bursting color and artwork that seems to be hand-brushed upon each page.  See the little cutouts that peek into other pages.  How fun!

This book is the perfect addition to your child's library collection, as a baby shower gift, a special story for the children's ministry at church, for a special birthday boy or girl, or for anyone, of any age, who needs to be reminded of how greatly they are loved.  At only $12.99, you can't go wrong here.  To make it even sweeter, you will receive 20% off ALL books with the word Love in the title when you shop at Ideal Books during the month of January.  Just use LOVE2015 to search for all the books for this offer and use LOVE2015 as your promotional code when you check out.  Click HERE to get searching.

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.”

 One lucky winner will receive a copy of their own A Love Letter from God.  All entries must be received by midnight EST on Friday, January 16, 2015.  Entrants must be 18 or older to enter.   This giveaway is not connected to any social media site.  The winner will be contacted via e-mail and have 48 hours to respond.  If I don't hear back from you then I'll pick another winner, so mark your calendar and keep an eye out!  Get started now on Rafflecopter...a Rafflecopter giveaway