Showing posts with label Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reviews. Show all posts

Monday, July 29, 2013

Stealing the Preacher {Review}

Stealing the PreacherStealing the Preacher by Karen Witemeyer is a spin-off of from her novel, Short-Straw Bride. The novel is set in a rural ranching community of Texas in the late 1800s.  The storyline focuses on three main characters- Crockett Archer, a kidnapped preacher, Silas Robbins, thief turned rancher and his daughter Joanna.

Storyline
“On his way to interview for his first preaching post, Crockett Archer can scarcely believe it when he’s forced off the train by a band of middle-aged outlaws and delivered to the ringleader’s daughter as a birthday present.

Joanna Robbins can’t believe it either. For months, she’s prayed for a preacher—a man to bring life back into her community’s church and help her fulfill the promise she made to her dying mother. Despite the circumstances, is there any chance she can convince this stolen preacher he ended up right where he belongs?” (Bethany House)

Book Trailer

Overall Thoughts 
I was really excited to read this book because I absolutely LOVED Short-Straw BrideAlthough, this book was good it didn’t live up to its predecessor. I felt like the main characters transformed a little too quickly even though the book seems to cover a decent span of time.  Silas’ heart was changed after only a few events and Crocket and Joanna fell in love before they really knew each other.  There were a variety of storylines taking place in the book (God pursuing Silas, Crocket and Joanna relationship, Holly pursuing Crocket, the marshal pursuing Silas, etc.) so this may have been a reason the characters development was lacking. One of the things I love about Karen Witemeyer is the way she develops her characters, but this one fell a little short compared to her other books I’ve read.  Overall, the storylines were interesting, but I wish more time was put into the characters.  While this book wasn’t my favorite from Witemeyer, I still enjoyed it and look forward to her next title.

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A Mommy Talks Reviews:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Bethany House.  All opinions expressed are my own.  If you’d are interested in signing up to receive review copies from Bethany House, head to www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers!

Monday, June 24, 2013

Monster University {Review}

MUN_Mike_Sulley_Books_TeaserMech_1s_w5.0Mike and Sulley weren't always best buds and Disney's Monsters University tells the story of how their friendship came to be so strong. It's a classic weak-unite-to-beat-the-strong storyline loaded with laughs and a few heartfelt moments.

Similar to the first movie, Monsters University had a message that friends can accomplish more together than alone. Mike and Sulley find themselves relying on each other and a group of misfits for a chance to stay in the scare program. The movie also teaches kids to look past the exterior and see that some of the people we are prone to overlook are capable of the unexpected. You'll also find a message about honesty and resisting the urge to win at all costs.

Storyline
Ever since college-bound Mike Wazowski (voice of Billy Crystal) was a little monster, he has dreamed of becoming a professional Scarer—and he knows better than anyone that the best Scarers come from Monsters University (MU). But during his first semester at MU, Mike’s plans are derailed when he crosses paths with hotshot MU legacy James P. Sullivan, “Sulley” (voice of John Goodman), a natural-born Scarer. The pair’s out-of-control competitive spirit gets them both kicked out of the University’s elite Scare Program. To make matters worse, they realize they will have to work together, along with an odd bunch of misfit monsters, if they ever hope to make things right.


Disney MONSTERS UNIVERSITY, MU

Overall
If you liked Monsters Inc. you will enjoy this follow up. While Cars 2 seemed to diverge from the tone set in Cars (i.e., cars shooting at each other, impossible-for-kids-to-solve mystery element), Monster's University stays true to the spirit of Monsters Inc. I will say I was a bit nervous though when Mike and Sulley found themselves walking into a party at a fat house, but the scene didn't feature any of the college shenanigans that you might expect. Monsters walked around with the “red cups” and I recall seeing one monster taking a fall from too much to drink but that was about it.

Lil' Man loved Monsters University. It's practically all he's talked about since we saw it. He's been developing his own movie with some of the characters from MU and a few of his own creations. We are, however, having a hard time explaining to him why we won't be able to get the same people to do the voices for Mike and Sulley. (We don't have those kinds of connections...yet alone that much money.)


Monsters U 1   Monsters U 2

This was a great family movie and one we recommend.  Have you seen it?  What did you think?

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Some extras
Looking for some fun family activities to go along with this movie?  Check out the free monster resources from 2 Teaching Mommies.  Plus, make sure and grab the family kit from Disney below.
A Mommy Talks Review Disclosure: I  received passes to attend the featured movie for this review, at no cost, from Disney for my honest review. I do not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about products. All opinions expressed are my own.

Monday, June 10, 2013

A Noble Groom {Review}

affiliate linkTwo strangers from two different worlds forced together by unexpected circumstances. He, Carl von Reichart, is a nobleman by birth and she, Annalisa Werner is a laborer who doesn’t think she is deserving of love, even love from her Heavenly Father.  Force to leave his life behind due to false accusations Carl flees to America and into the safety of Annalisa’s family under the disguise of Carl Richards.

A Noble Groom by Jody Hedlund takes us into the rural farm lands of Eastern Michigan where German mining immigrants have settled as farmers in hopes of owning their own land. Unfortunately,  Annalisa husband was a gambler and his death has left her to save the farm.   With a small daughter and another on the way she is forced to take on a farm hand to help while she waits for a new groom from her home country. 

Storyline

“Annalisa Werner’s husband failed her in every way. Why should his death be any less troublesome? Although she’s given up on the idea of love, she needs a good harvest to save the farm—and a husband to help bring it in. So her father sends a letter to Germany to find Annalisa a groom.

Then Carl Richards shows up looking for work. Desperate for help until her husband-to-be arrives, Annalisa hires him—only to discover this gentle stranger is unlike any man she’s ever known. But even as friendship and attraction grow between them, her true groom could arrive any day . . .” (Bethany House)

Overall Thoughts 

Judy Hedlund has a way of bringing history alive in her novels.  Though this is a fictional story I came away with a simple understanding of the difficulties and struggles the German immigrants of Michigan faced in their new country. Hedlund uses this hardship to shine a light on the virtues of her characters. Through these virtues I was able to quickly connect to Annalisa and Carl. I was drawn in even more as they labored through the rigors of farming, while trying to bury their budding feelings. These are two characters that you going to love. Definitely an enjoyable read.

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy. 
My posts contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy here.

A Mommy Talks Reviews:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Bethany House.  All opinions expressed are my own.  If you’d are interested in signing up to receive review copies from Bethany House, head to www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers!

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Swept Away {Review}

9261 SweptAway_mck.inddInspired by the Andersonville Prison Regulators of the Civil War, Swept Away by Mary Connealy is the first book in the series Trouble in Texas.  The story takes place in the late 1800s in the small canyon town of Broken Wheel, where the Regulators join together to help take back a ranch that belongs to one of their own. 

Storyline
“Swept away when her wagon train attempts a difficult river crossing, Ruthy MacNeil isn't terribly upset at being separated from the family who raised her. All they've ever done is work her to the bone. Alive but disoriented, she's rescued by Luke Stone...so unfortunately, there are more chances to die in her immediate future.

Luke is on a mission to reclaim the ranch stolen from his family. But the more time Luke spends around the hardworking young woman, the more he finds himself thinking of things besides revenge. Will Ruthy convince him to give up his destructive path and be swept away by love?” (Bethany House)

Overall Thoughts 

I loved that this first book of the series was some what of a spin off from Mary Connealy’s last series, The Kincaid Brides.  Its always fun to learn more about characters you loved.  The main storyline follows Callie’s (from Over the Edge) brother, Luke as he reclaims their family’s ranch.  On his way home he stumbles upon Ruthy who in unconscious and had been washed away from her wagon train in a flash flood.  Ruthy is a hard working women who knows how to take care of herself, so it wasn’t surprising how quickly she jumped in to help Luke. 

Even though the story’s main focus was on Luke and Ruthy, Connealy did a great job of introducing the rest of the Regulators. A matter of fact Swept Away is full of intriguing characters.  Characters that I know will be cracked open as the series progresses.  

Overall, there were no surprises in this story, but the action in the last few chapters was definitely my favorite part . 

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy. 
My posts may contain affiliate or advertiser links. Read my full disclosure policy here.

A Mommy Talks Reviews:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Bethany House.  All opinions expressed are my own.  If you’d are interested in signing up to receive review copies from Bethany House, head to www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers!

 

Speaking of books…don’t miss this huge eBook bundle sale!

UHeB-leaderboard-728x90

Sunday, March 24, 2013

Shattered {Review}

ShatteredShattered by Dani Pettrey is the second book in the Alaskan Courage series. The book takes us back to the small island town of Yancey, Alaska and to the lives of the McKenna family. Like in her previous book, Submerged,  the story pulls you right in at the beginning when a snowboarder is murdered and Reef McKenna’s is covered in blood, but claims he’s innocent.  The story focuses in on Piper, the youngest McKenna who is determined to protect her brother, and Landon, a sheriff deputy, who is trying to find the truth.  The two team up as they follow leads deep into Canada's rugged backcountry.

Storyline
“When a snowboarder is murdered and Piper McKenna’s brother turns up covered in blood, she knows it’s all just a misunderstanding—and she’s determined to prove it.

Deputy Landon Grainger may love the McKennas like family, but he also has a job to do. And right now all the evidence is pointing straight at Reef. He knows Piper means well, but she isn’t helping her brother’s case by interfering with his investigation. Deep in Canada’s backcountry, Landon and Piper discover their long-standing friendship might be turning into something more—and that this case is growing deadlier with each step.” (Bethany House)

Overall Thoughts 
I couldn’t wait for this book to come out! Shattered kept me guessing, but didn’t leave me behind. I felt like I was apart of the investigation with every twist and turn. Not only that, but I loved being able to dig a little deeper into some of the “supporting characters” from book 1. I was so excited to learn more about Landon and I was not disappointed. I totally related to how hard it was for him to put his faith in God, even when he didn’t have all the answers.  Overall, an great second book and I’m looking forward to reading book #3.

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A-Submerged-Final-Cover9[3]

What to know more about book 1, Submerged? Read my review.
A Mommy Talks Reviews:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Bethany House.  All opinions expressed are my own.  If you’d are interested in signing up to receive review copies from Bethany House, head to www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers!

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

The Meaning of Easter with Phil Vischer

Great news!  What’s in the Bible has created a powerful 11-minute video to help explain the meaning of Easter using scenes from Vol. 10 and its FREE!  Check it out below and then SHARE it!

The also have a GREAT DEAL going on.  You can get $5 off your purchase of their latest bundle of Volume 10 "Jesus Is The Good News!" and My Jesus Journal (the print version).  Use coupon code MJJ5. Expires 4/1/13.

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More about My Jesus Journal

My Jesus Journal is designed to guide your family into a richer understanding of who we are, what Jesus did for us, and how we are to live in light of the truths of the Gospel.

Even though My Jesus Journal wasn’t specifically created for Easter, my family is planning to use the tips they provided throughout the book to use it now during the Lent and Easter season.

What You Do:

  • As a family-  you’ll build a mustard tree, with the resources provided, to record the ways you are seeing God work in your lives.
  • Each kiddo – will learn about Jesus and learn to know Him through individual activities in their very own My Jesus Journal.

What It includes:

  • Instructions to make and use your Mustard Tree
  • Family Activity List (use to fill in your Mustard Tree)
  • Instructions for each child to make their own My Jesus Journal
  • Activities for My Jesus Journal, broken down into 3 sections  (Who Am I? Who is Jesus? How do we live because of Jesus?)
  • Remembering the Cross Family Activity
  • Additional Family Activities
  • Online Access to videos and additional resources

When To Use It:

  • It can be used anytime your family wants to spend time learning more about Christ and who He is. 
  • You could also use it if your children have questions about Jesus, or when they make the decision to follow Christ.
  • And as I mentioned above it provides a sample schedule of how you can use it the weeks leading up to Easter.

After reading through it these are the things I think I’m going to love about using What’s in the Bible? – My Jesus Journal:

  1. I’m know my son is going to love making his own My Jesus Journal and completing the activities it provides. Although, he may be a little young for some.
  2. I love the online videos they provided and I know it will be a great resource to help illustrate and reinforce the lesson of the day.
  3. And lastly, I love that everything is provided for me, making it easy for me to just enjoy being together as a family learning about Jesus.

We are really looking forward into digging into this resource, especially since our son has been asking a lot of questions about Jesus.  I’ll let you all know how it goes and my final thoughts when we finish it.

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy.

A Mommy Talks Review Disclosure: The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by What's in the Bible?  All opinions expressed are my own. I am an affiliate, so if you purchase anything through an affiliate link, you give back a percentage to our family…thanks!

Monday, November 5, 2012

Original Christmas Classics {Review}

Holiday-Classics-BluRay_Boxset_PackshotI recently received Original Christmas Classics box set {Blu-ray}  from The Morris + King Company for Classic Media to do a review.  I quickly jumped on it.  I mean, who wouldn’t!  I grew up watching these movies every year on the television.  It was something we looked forward to every Christmas season.  And now I can’t wait to make it a tradition for my kiddos.

 

About the Blue-ray Set

The cute and family-friendly box set contains four of the most beloved holiday TV specials of all time, including the Rankin/Bass classics “Frosty the Snowman,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” and “Frosty Returns.”

You can purchase the collection wherever Blu-rays ($44.95 SRP) are sold.   If you don’t own a Blu-ray player, you can also purchase it in DVD format on Amazon.

Just for fun you click the image below to download this Original Christmas Classics Wish List!

Click Image to Download

So, here is my honest opinion:

  • Classic – These movies are timeless. There’s nothing like them to get you into the Christmas spirit. Personally, Rudolph is my favorite. We’re all misfits in one way or another and I love the message behind this classic.
  • Quality – For my money it’s worth going for these movies on Blu-Ray. The picture quality is amazing and with everything going high def these days you’ve got to have these in the latest version. 
  • Family-Friendly – Let’s face it, some of the movies you remember from your childhood aren’t as innocent as you recall. There’s nothing to blush about in these classics. You’ll love watching them with your kids, but you can also press play, leave the room and not worry about having to explain anything to them afterwards.

In the end I would definitely recommend this Christmas Collection for every family.

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy.

A Mommy Talks Review Disclosure:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by The Morris + King Company for Classic Media.  All opinions expressed are my own. I am an Amazon affiliate, so if you purchase anything through an affiliate link, you give back a percentage to my family…thanks!

Monday, October 15, 2012

Over the Edge {Review}

OverTheEdge_mck.inddOver the Edge by Mary Connealy is the third book in the series The Kincaid Brides.  The story takes place in the late 1800s on a ranch in the hills of Colorado. 

Storyline
“Seth Kincaid survived a fire in a cave, but he hasn't been the same since. Then he fought in the Civil War and returned to Colorado crazier than ever.

Somewhere along the line, it appears Seth got married. Oh, he has a lot of excuses, but his wife isn't too happy to find out Seth doesn't remember her. Callie isn't a long-suffering woman. When Seth disappeared, she searched, prayed, and worried. Now she's come out west to wrangle her long-lost husband.

Seth is willing to make amends. Callie is more interested in shooting him. Can they rekindle their love before one of them goes over the edge?” (Bethany House)

Book Trailer 

Overall Thoughts 
This unique story’s theme is tied around the word LOST ~ Callie’s lost husband, Seth’s lost memory, and even lost diamonds.  Though the story focuses on Seth and Callie’s relationship there is bit of adventure as Jasper seeks to take back the diamonds that were stolen from him. 

I really enjoyed the main characters in this book.  Seth is a lovable guy that I immediately felt bad for and grew excited with every memory he got back.  Callie was a tough girl on the exterior, but deep down she was just scared due to her wounded heart.

I personally have not read any of the the other books in this particular series, but the author did a fabulous job of filling the reader in on some of the things that happened in the other two books.  I would like to know more about the other characters, but I’m sure they were develop more fully in the first two books.  Definitely a fun read, but if you get a chance read the first two books first, so you get the complete story with all the little details.

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy.

A Mommy Talks Reviews:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Bethany House.  All opinions expressed are my own.  If you’d are interested in signing up to receive review copies from Bethany House, head to www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers!

Friday, August 10, 2012

Short-Straw Bride {Review}

Short-Straw Bride Cover Full-SizeShort-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer is a novel set in a small Texas town in the 1800s.

Storyline
“No one steps on Archer land. Not if they value their life. But when Meredith Hayes overhears a plot to burn the Archer brothers off their ranch, a long-standing debt compels her to take the risk. But when an act of sacrifice leaves her injured and her reputation in shreds, gratitude and guilt prompt Travis Archer to attempt to rescue her.

Despite the fact that Travis is no longer the gallant youth Meredith once dreamed about, she vows to stand by his side. But will love ever be hers? Or will Travis always see her as merely a short-straw bride?” (Bethany House)

Book Trailer
If that storyline doesn’t make you want to get a copy and read it, then the book trailer will!  Check it out below.

Overall Thoughts 
I LOVED Short-Straw BrideThis book kept me up late into the evening because I just couldn’t put it down.  I actually finished reading it in 2 days!  I fell in love with the characters.  Meredith’s stubbornness always had me on edge.  And though Travis was firm and set in his ways, you knew that he was doing what he thought was best in order to protect his family.  Throw the two together and you have the makings of a fun couple that has to learn to give and take.

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy.

A Mommy Talks Reviews:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Bethany House.  All opinions expressed are my own.  If you’d are interested in signing up to receive review copies from Bethany House, head to www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers!

Saturday, July 21, 2012

Submerged {Review}

Submerged by Dani Pettrey is a novel set in a small island down of Yancey, Alaska. Right from the beginning, the story grabs you as a sabotage plane goes down.  The main characters are Bailey, a new creation in Christ, that must return home and Cole, a deep sea diver, who vows not to let Baily break his heart again.  The two must work together to help the police department find a murderer with very little to go on.

Storyline
“Bailey Craig vowed never to set foot in Yancey, Alaska, again. She has a reputation--and Yancey's a town that doesn't forget. She's returned only to bury a loved one killed in the plane crash, but then dark evidence of murder emerges and Bailey's expertise becomes invaluable for the case. She's thrown together with deep sea rescue diver Cole McKenna, whose heart she broke more than a decade before. Can they move beyond all that came before to stop a rising body count?” (Bethany House)

Overall Thoughts 
I really enjoyed SubmergedThe suspense, the budding romance, the small town setting, and the underlining message of accepting Christ forgiveness and moving on from the past, where all things that kept me turning page after page.  Pettrey does an excellent job of developing a variety of characters.  Reminds me a lot of the O’Malley Series by Dee Henderson. One particular character’s story, left me hanging, as I wanted to know more about Landon the island detective.  I’m looking forward to book 2 to discover what happens to him! Overall, an excellent tale that is leaving me wanting more.

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy.

A Mommy Talks Reviews:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Bethany House.  All opinions expressed are my own.  If you’d are interested in signing up to receive review copies from Bethany House, head to www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers!

Monday, May 28, 2012

The Messenger {Review}

Messenger_cover.indd

The Messenger by Siri Mitchell is a novel set during the Revolutionary War. The story is about Hannah, a Quaker woman, and a wounded tavern owner, Jeremiah. The two team up as spies during the war when Hannah’s brother is imprisoned by the British army.

Storyline
“Hannah Sunderland has never questioned her unwavering Quaker beliefs…until the Friends forbid her to visit her twin brother in jail. But when Jeremiah Jones, a Colonial spy, seeks her out to help rescue her brother and other Colonial soldiers, she’s forced to confront her beliefs—and her unexpected feelings for Jeremiah—head on. As lives hang in the balance, must Hannah choose between forsaking those she loves and abandoning the bedrock of her faith?” (Bethany House)

Overall Thoughts 
It was really hard for me to get into The Messenger.  Even though the story takes place during the Revolutionary War the use of “thee” and “thy” just seemed forced and didn’t seem to work with the rest of the dialogue.  However, it wasn’t long until I wanted to see how this non-deceiving Quaker woman would turn out.  I had to know, would she bend her strict religious ways or would she stand firm in her beliefs?  Would her mission be successful?    Overall, I was pleasantly surprised especially after the rough beginning. 

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy.

A Mommy Talks Reviews:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by Bethany House.  All opinions expressed are my own.  If you’d are interested in signing up to receive review copies from Bethany House, head to www.bethanyhouse.com/bookreviewers!

Friday, November 25, 2011

Why Do We Call it Christmas?

christmas-coverI recently received Buck Denver asks…Why Do We Call It Christmas? DVD from What's in the Bible? to do a honest review. 

About the DVD

With humor and tact Buck Denver and his puppet pals cover everything from cutting down trees, hanging stockings, Santa Claus and what these have to do with Jesus' birthday.

Run Time: approx. 60 minutes

You can purchase it for $12.99 (normally $14.99). However, right now they are having a huge deal. You can get  Volumes 1-5 of Buck Denver Asks...What's in the Bible? plus the Christmas special for just $37.95 plus shipping & processing. (That's nearly 50% off regular prices.)

Here’s a little promo for it.


(In a reader? Don't miss out on the video, head over to the post.)

Ok, now what you all have been waiting for…here are my thoughts about Why Do We Call It Christmas?

Plus(es):

  • Funny – The silly characters appeal to most every child. The silly things the characters say appeal to the child within the parents. This is a children’s DVD that even the parents can enjoy.
  • Informative – I wasn’t even aware of the origins of some of our most cherished Christmas traditions. It was fascinating to hear the story behind Christmas as we know it.
  • Focused – While much ground is covered in the 50+ minute video the host, Phil Vischer, wraps it all up by saying that many of the traditions we hold dear point back to Jesus. They may seem silly when you think about it (hanging socks on a fireplace, putting a giant tree in your living room, etc.) but in some way each tradition tells a part of the Christmas story.

Wish(es):

  • Maybe more songs– I don’t think my 4 year old son enjoyed this Buck Denver video as much as What’s in the Bible?: Part 1. It didn’t seem to have as many songs, which is what appeals to him the most. 

In the end I recommend this DVD for every family. It will balance out your Christmas DVD collection by doing an excellent job of putting the focus back on Jesus.

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy.

A Mommy Talks Review Disclosure:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost, by What's in the Bible?  All opinions expressed are my own. I am an affiliate, so if you purchase anything through an affiliate link, you give back a percentage to our family…thanks!

Thursday, November 24, 2011

Truth in the Tinsel

Black Friday Sale for $2.99!

Are you looking for a fun way to count down to Christmas with your kiddo?  Do you want to impress on them the true meaning of Christmas at the same time?  Then Truth in the Tinsel is for you!!

I am so excited to introduce you to this book.  You see it was written by my new IRL (in real life) friend Amanda.   She was one of the bloggers that attending Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Blitz in New York City with me. 

Well, while we were there she was telling me all about her e-book.  And I am so glad she did!  I got a sneak peak and I can’t wait to dive into it Dec 1st. 

Here’s what you’ll find in it:

24 days of step by step mini lessons leading up to Christmas, which includes:

    • the clue
    • the scripture
    • the ornament
    • the talk
    • and more (section of additional ideas).

It reminds me a lot of the way Resurrection Eggs are set up, except with a craft to go along.

My favorite parts:

Ok, well I like all of it but if I had to chose my top 3 things that I love about her book it would be:

  • “The Talk” is short but packed full of truth that will be easy for my son to understand. 
  • Love the “More” section.  Each day has a different task like reading up more on angels, acting out the bible stories, singing, doing something for others, and more!
  • Finally, Amanda provides a few alternative schedules for those of us that might not be able to devote 24 straight days to it.

Update 10/25/12:

Amanda just released PRINTABLE ORNAMENTS!  This is a new additional supplement for when you need a quick craft or a break from your normal activity.  To purchase just scroll down to the bottom of the page.  These printable ornaments are not mandatory for using Truth in the Tinsel.

Don’t Miss Out:

  • BUY IT! Since tomorrow is Black Friday, Amanda is selling her e-book for only $2.99!  You can’t beat that price, so get it now!!
  • PARTICIPATE.  Join other families as they go through the book by sharing your experiences on the Truth in the Tinsel Facebook page.

I highly recommend Truth in the Tinsel to help impress the true meaning of Christmas on your kiddo this advent season.

This post may contain affilated links.  Please click here to read my full disclosure policy.

A Mommy Talks Disclosure:  The featured product for this review was provided to me, at no cost by my friend Amanda. All opinions expressed are my own.  I am an affiliate, so if you purchase anything through an affiliate link, you give back a percentage to our family…thanks!

Monday, November 14, 2011

Pick and Draw {Review}

My family had a blast playing Pick and Draw, the “one-of-a-kind drawing game that teaches you how to make very creative cartoon faces.”  We pulled it out recently and played together as a family.  We were entertained for a good hour and laughing until our sides hurt.

Learn to draw cartoons the fun way!
A Little Info About Pick and Draw...
  • It is a deck of cards.
  • The game uses mainly simple shapes to guide you through drawing a unique character face.
  • It can be played by one person or by any group number.
  • Comes in a hard case and includes a sheet of character questions.

It just cost $10.  Although, for November and December, they are offering a special discount. Buy the first game at regular price ($10) and every game after that is only $8.  Can you say STOCKING STUFFER!!

So, here is my honest opinion of the game.

Plus(es):

  • Easy to UseMy son could, at just nearly four years old, draw a character following the simple shapes step-by-step. Sure the faces looked a bit rough, but it was super easy.  (Give it a try online.)
  • Keeps Child’s & Adult’s InterestMy son enjoyed the game, even though he struggles with drawing the actual shapes. It also helped instill some confidence in him. My husband and I also enjoyed creating our characters.  
scan0001 scan0002 scan0003

Wish(es):
  • More Character Questions. We took the game in our own direction and made up a story about our characters popcorn style. But we thought it would be fun to have a stack of question cards that you could pick from that kept the creativity going. “What’s your character’s favorite vacation spot?” “What does your character do for a living?” The possibilities are endless. 

Overall, this is a quality game that kids and adults will enjoy! It works great for a family night activity. To top it off the price is right.  I highly recommend adding Pick and Draw to your family’s game collection. 

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A Mommy Talks Review Disclosure:  The featured product for this review was provided to me  at no cost, by Pick and Draw for the sole purpose of product testing. I do not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about products. All opinions expressed are my own.