Sunday, December 6, 2015

TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DISGUISE – A NEW AUTOBOT MISSION Special Collectible DVD Review & Giveaway #HGG

Disclosure:  We received a copy of this DVD to facilitate our honest review.  No monetary compensation was received. Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment.

The lure of TRANSFORMERS saga begins a new chapter as BUMBLEBEE and a team of AUTOBOT action heroes embark on a new mission to protect and save Earth from a new faction of DECEPTICONS. Hasbro Studios’ new top-rated animated series TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DISGUISE, which airs on Cartoon Network, is the latest installment of TRANSFORMERS franchise and builds on the lore of both the AUTOBOTS and DECEPTICONS. Featuring an all-new animation style, this new hit series is filled with exciting, action adventures and great humor for fans of all age.

On October 20, 2015, Shout! Factory Kids, in collaboration with Hasbro Studios, will release TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DISGUISE – A NEW AUTOBOT MISSION DVD, featuring five entertaining episodes and special behind-the-scenes bonus content.  Packed with unforgettable AUTOBOT and DECEPTICON characters and action adventures, this new collectible DVD delivers fun-filled home entertainment that kids, parents and loyal fans will enjoy!  This DVD is priced to own with a suggested retail price of $14.93.  
You can order it now by clicking the stores below:
Walmart or Amazon

The new mission begins as BUMBLEBEE must step up to be leader in the years after we left the AUTOBOTS in TRANSFORMERS PRIME. Summoned by OPTIMUS PRIME to save Earth from a new DECEPTICON threat, BUMBLEBEE puts his light-hearted mettle to the test after assembling a rouge team of AUTOBOTS action heroes. BUMBLEBEE must balance his job fighting off evil with being equal parts squad leader and coach to a rascally team that needs constant coaxing to learn how to work together. The results are comical when the cool rebel SIDESWIPE, elite guard cadet STRONGARM, bombastic dinobot GRIMLOCK and overly-excited mini-con FIXIT must balance keeping the team together with chasing and capturing their new enemies in each adventure-filled episode.

TRANSFORMERS ROBOTS IN DISGUISE features the voice talent of Will Friedle (Boy Meets World), Darren Criss (Glee), Constance Zimmer (Entourage), Khary Payton (Teen Titans Go!), Mitchell Whitfield (TMNT) and Peter Cullen who voices OPTIMUS PRIME when he makes cameo appearances in this series.

Five action-packed TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DISGUISE adventures include:
Pilot, Part 1
Pilot, Part 2
Trust Exercises
More Than Meets The Eye
W.W.O.D.

Bonus Feature:
A Look Behind-The-Scenes

Total Running Time: Approx. 110 minutes

The TRANSFORMERS: ROBOTS IN DISGUISE series is currently airing on Cartoon Network in the U.S. and on Teletoon in Canada.

If you have a Transformers fan, you will not be disappointed with this DVD.  Our copy has been viewed at least a dozen times since we received it.  Chefy has enjoyed it as much as little man!

Would you like to win a copy for your Transformers fan?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form and TWO lucky readers will win!  This is a flash giveaway, so get your entries in SOON!  This giveaway ends at 11:59pm on Sunday 12/6!

Friday, November 20, 2015

MercyMe It's Christmas CD and Pizza Ranch Review & Giveaway #Flyby

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.

Christmas is my favorite holiday!  One of the main reasons I love it so much is because of the MUSIC!  I love being able to worship Jesus Christ in song and there is no better time than Christmas!  One of my favorite Christian groups is MercyMe and they have a new Christmas CD, It's Christmas!

Mercy Me It’s Christmas​ CD is available in Pizza Ranch locations through December 31, 2015.  It has 4 exclusive songs that can only be found on the CD version being sold by Pizza Ranch.  Each CD will be sold for $5 plus tax.  Pizza Ranch will give away the CD with a $25 gift card purchase as well as sell the full album at each of its 200 locations throughout the Midwest and Great Plains states.  "We are so excited to debut our new Christmas album, MercyMe, It’s Christmas, with Pizza Ranch” said Bart Millard with MercyMe. “Pizza Ranch is a fantastic restaurant with a great mission to glorify God. It's the perfect gift to give this Christmas season and the perfect CD to get you in the Christmas spirit.” 

Songs:
1. Newborn
2. Christmastime Again
3. Sleigh Ride
4. I’ll Be Home For Christmas
5. Hold On Christmas
6. A Holly Jolly Christmas
7. Go Tell It On The Mountain
8. Do You Hear What I Hear
9. Our Lullaby
10. Joy
11. O Come, O Come 
12. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen (Exclusive Bonus Track for Pizza Ranch)
13. O Holy Night (Exclusive Bonus Track for Pizza Ranch)
14. Silent Night (Exclusive Bonus Track for Pizza Ranch)
15. Joseph’s Lullaby (Exclusive Bonus Track for Pizza Ranch) 

We have been playing this CD from the moment we received it for review!  My favorite song is Silent Night, but I love the whole CD!  Chefy has now claimed it and has it in his car.  He plays it to and from work and says it relaxes him.  Kat loved the CD too, and she says she likes that it has hymns as well as other Christmas songs.  It's Christmas will be enjoyed for many years to come!

Would you like to win a copy of your own?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below.  Please note:  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

Faith of Our Fathers DVD Review & Giveaway #FAITHOFOURFATHERS #FLYBY

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.

Chefy and I are big fans of Pure Flix Entertainment.  This is the production company that brought us God's Not Dead and Do You Believe?.  We love Christian movies because we do not have to worry about the language, adult situations and nudity, and the whole family can watch!  Pure Flix has recently released Faith of Our Fathers on DVD and Chefy and I were given the opportunity to review it.

About the movie:
John Paul and Wayne are two young men in search of their fathers.  Problem is...their fathers have been dead for 25 years.  Eddie and Steven are two young men in search of their sons...whom they've never met.  In 1969, Eddie and Steven are with their squad deep in the jungle of Vietnam on a five-day mission to retrieve fallen comrades.  They write letters to their wives, often mentioning their love for their sons, one, who is an infant and one yet to be born.  In 1994, John Paul and Wayne go on a five day road trip to the Vietnam Wall in Washington DC to see their fathers' names.  Along the way, reading those letters, they begin to get an understanding of who their fathers were and how they died.  Trials and mishaps, both funny and sad, complicate the road trip for the boys.  The horrors of war and the testing of faith manifest themselves for the young men in Vietnam.  Ultimately, in parallel stories - 25 years apart - the fathers and sons are bound together forever.  
Runtime: 96 minutes
Genre: Drama
Rating: PG-13 (for brief war violence)

Starring: Stephen Baldwin, Kevin Downes, David A.R. White, Rebecca St. James, Si Robertson, Candace Cameron Bure, Scott Whyte, and Sean McGowan.

Special Features of the DVD:
-The Heart of Faith of Our Fathers
-Honoring Father's Day
-Commemorating Memorial Day
-Si Robertson Interview
-Stephen Baldwin Interview

For the most part, Chefy and I enjoyed the movie.  There happened to be a couple times when I felt the movie dragged a little, or lost the plot line, but that happens with a lot of movies.  We enjoyed the switching of the times from 1969 Vietnam to the present and the parallels between the sons and fathers.  We will watch this movie again and share it with others!

 My granddaddy was a veteran and this movie just gave me greater insight into the struggles of war.  Want to win a copy for yourself?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!  Please note:  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.

NIV Bible for Teen Girls: Growing In Faith.Hope.Love Review & Giveaway #NIVBibleforTeenGirls #FLYBY

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.

Being a preacher's daughter, I have had several different Bibles over the years.  My dad would read different translations of the Bible when he needed more inspiration or when he needed to break things down in a more understandable language.  I still have my white KJV Bible that Daddy gave me when I was 13.  When he passed away in 2013, I inherited a large portion of his Bible collection.  Kat received several of them, but she calls them G-Dad's Bibles and they are treated more like a collectible than a reference book.

We received Zondervan's NIV Bible for Teen Girls:  Growing in Faith. Hope. Love, to review and Kat immediately took it to her room.  I am proud to say that this Bible has not only been opened, it is being read!  I'm going to give you a little information on this Bible and Kat will then post her review.
The great people at Zondervan have designed a Bible for real teen girls with real lives.  Today's teen girl needs reassurance that no issue is too big for God.  The NIV Bible for Teen Girls, designed specifically for girls ages 13 to 18, will do just that.  This Bible is packed with daily readings, highlighted promises of God, challenging insights, smart advice, and open discussions about the realities of life.  This Bible is designed to help teen girls grow in faith, hope, and love.  It is as sincere about a teen girl's walk with God as they are, helping them discover his will for all areas of their life, including relating to their family, dealing with friends, work, sports, guys, and so much more.  

Features:
DAILY READINGS by popular Christian female authors including Bethany Hamilton (Soul Surfer), Annie Downs, Christine Caine, Nicole Weider, Elsa Kok Colopy, Crystal Kirgiss, Bekah Hamrick Martin, Denise Van Eck, and more
CHARACTER PROFILES of women in the Bible
BOOK INTRODUCTIONS for each book of the Bible
HIGHLIGHTED PROMISES OF GOD are verses worth remembering
A CONCORDANCE for help in finding verses
The bestselling NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION (NIV) of the Bible

Kat's Thoughts:
I was excited to receive this new Bible that is specifically designed for girls!  Zondervan's NIV Bible for Teen Girls: Growing In Faith.Hope.Love is wonderful!  It has so many features that I love.  I get daily readings by some awesome Christian ladies, profiles of the women of the Bible, and each chapter has an intro which offers the Who? What? When? and Where? information of that chapter!  I love the highlighted verses, because these verses pop out and I know these are very important to remember.  I highly recommend this Bible for your teenage daughter.  This will be a Bible she will be happy to own and use for years to come.

Would you like to win one of these Bibles?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below.  Please note:  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.

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

How to Get the Freshest Seafood Possible without Getting Wet

Disclosure:  This is a sponsored post and I was compensated for posting it.  I only post about things I believe in and the compensation did not influence that!

Fresh seafood should not smell fishy, it should smell like the ocean. A slight hint of salt water is all that should be smelled. Finding fresh fish is difficult in inland states. Frozen fish tends to also have that fishy smell. A lot of what is shown as fresh fish in local markets, is actually previously frozen. You do not have to go out into the water to catch it yourself, there are reputable services that can deliver fresh seafood right to your home.
Find a Local Fish Monger
Even in areas where big lakes and oceans are not available, some farmers do raise fish for local fish mongers, restaurants and grocers. Farm raised fish is often grown safely, without chemicals. It is important to inquire with the fish monger where the fish was raised and if it is in a natural, chemical-free growing environment.
Overnight Shipping
There are reputable online fisheries that harvest, clean and pack fresh seafood within hours of it being caught. The seafood is packed in plenty of dry ice and is shipped overnight to your home. Without being seaside, this is the freshest seafood you can get, without getting wet.
It is important to have the delivery sent to a location where you will be available to receive it and refrigerate it immediately. Some consumers opt to have overnight seafood deliveries sent to their places of business since they are not home during regular delivery hours. If you click here, you can see how this process is a safe and effective option for obtaining freshly caught seafood.
Standing Order with a Fisherman
If you are lucky enough to live near water or a large lake, build a relationship with a local fisherman or fishing vessel. Some will work with private clients that have frequent or standing orders. Planning a seafood meal once or twice a week is healthy and obtaining it right from the fisherman is ideal when you are unable to fish for your own.
Having fresh, healthy seafood anytime that you want it is important in many diets. Fish is brain food and helps adults keep their minds active. It also helps children through growth spurts and many types of seafood do have health benefits. Seafood doesn't have to be something you order at a restaurant on a special occasion, it's easier to obtain fresh seafood than you think.

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

STRONG and KIND by Korie Robertson Giveaway #STRONGANDKIND #FLYBY

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.


About the book:
Hardcover; 240 pages
Publisher: Harper Collins Christian Publishing (October 27, 2015)

In her new book STRONG and KIND: And Other Important Character Traits Your Child Needs to Succeed, Korie Robertson - New York Times bestselling author, wife of Duck Commander® CEO Willie Robertson, star of A&E's Duck Dynasty, and mother of five - argues that developing good character in our children is the single most important thing we can do to help ensure they lead happy, healthy adult lives.  Robertson explores key traits and what they truly look like in action, asks readers to select the two traits that they hope to see most in their children, and shares hands-on ways for nurturing strength of character.  Written with her mother Chrys Howard and featuring stories and wisdom from husband Willie, STRONG and KIND cuts through the contemporary cacophony of parenting manuals to rediscover, unfold, and embrace the enduring wisdom that has guided the best parents for centuries.





About Korie Robertson:
Korie Robertson, wife of Duck Commander® CEO Willie Robertson and star of A&E's beloved series Duck Dynasty, is a mother of five a New York Times bestselling author of several books, including The Duck Commander Family: How Faith, Family, and Ducks built a Dynasty, written with Willie; Faith Commander: Living Five Values from the Parables with Jesus, written with her mother Chrys Howard; and The Women of Duck Commander: Surprising Insights from the Women Behind the Beards about What Makes this Family Work, written with all of the Robertson wives.  She is also an in-demand public speaker, Duck Commander® executive, entrepreneur and found of boutique Duck and Dressing, and philanthropist, who remains active with a variety of organizations that focus on children, adoption, and foster care.  Korie lives with her family in West Monroe, Louisiana.

You can follow Korie here:






Would you like to win a copy of this book for yourself?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!
Please note:   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

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Modern Family Season 6 - Giveaway

Disclosure:  Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment!  No compensation is being received for posting this giveaway!

Do you watch Modern Family?  It is nominated for Six Emmy® Awards including Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Casting For a Comedy Series!  Season 6 has just been released on DVD and Shelly's Bits & Pieces is giving away a copy!

About "Modern Family” Season Six
The honeymoon is over, but the laughs continue in Season Six of “Modern Family,” winner of five consecutive Emmy® Awards for Outstanding Comedy Series. As freshly hitched Cam and Mitch acclimate to the realities of wedded bliss, Phil and Claire find their marriage stressed by annoying neighbors, Thanksgiving dinner gone awry and Claire’s online snooping. Meanwhile, a spy-camera drone wreaks havoc in Jay and Gloria’s backyard and a close call on the highway leads to amusing changes in various members of the Pritchett-Dunphy clan. It all adds up to the funniest season yet of this brilliant and acclaimed comedy

The DVD includes special features which include:

  1. Awesome Halloween
  2. A Modern Thanksgiving
  3. Modern Connections: The Making of an Episode
  4. A Day with Julie
  5. Gag Reel
  6. Deleted Scenes 


Think you know everything about Modern Family?
Here are a few fun facts about the cast of Nominated for Six Emmy® Awards including Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Casting For a Comedy Series!

Nolan Gould, who plays "dumb" Luke Dunphy, has actually been a member of Mensa since he was 4.

Full name of Manny's character is Manuel Alberto Javier Alejandro Delgado

Eric Stonestreet is a Kansas native who wanted to become a clown as a kid. In fact, his childhood invention of “Fizbo” the clown has now been resurrected on “Modern Family.”

Julie Bowen was 8 months pregnant with twins in the Modern Family pilot.

In early seasons, Jay kept forgetting that Mitchell was gay. This was added in after the producers heard Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s real experience with coming out to his father three times.

During the early seasons, Jay would constantly forget that his son Mitchell was gay. Jesse Tyler Ferguson, who plays Mitchell, says the idea came from his own real life experience since he had to come out to his real father three different times over a period of several years.

~~~Giveaway~~~
One lucky Shelly's Bits & Pieces reader will win their own copy of Modern Family Season 6!  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!

Thursday, September 17, 2015

Captive by Ashley Smith Review and Giveaway #FOLLOWYOURPURPOSE #FLYBY

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.

We’ve all faced circumstances that have held us captive in some regard. What has held you captive? How did you find your purpose?


CAPTIVE, based on a miraculous true story that drew the attention of the entire nation, is a thrilling drama about the spiritual collision of two broken lives.  When Brian Nichols - on the run as the subject of a city wide manhunt and desperate to make contact with his newborn son - takes recovering meth addict Ashley Smith hostage in her own apartment, she turns for guidance to Rick Warren’s best-selling inspirational book, The Purpose Driven Life.  While reading aloud, Ashley and her would-be killer each face crossroads where despair and death intersect hope.  

There are times in my life when I struggled to find purpose and I felt like I was being held captive by circumstance. Through prayer and the Lord's help, I made it through.  I can only imagine how Ashley felt when she was held hostage.  It is scary to think about!

I read Captive to Chefy and we are planning to go see the movie this weekend,  While reading this book, we discussed how we would react in Ashley Smith's situation.  I do not know how I would have reacted.  More than likely, I would have ended up being shot. Ashley reading that book aloud
opened up the heart of a man who had reached an awful place in his life.  There is another book we can read aloud that will do that very thing and more, The Bible!

Here is the official movie trailer:



The movie stars David Oyelowo, who played Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the recent film, Selma and Kate Mara, who you might remember from House of Cards.

Would you like to win a copy of this book?  One lucky Shelly's Bits & Pieces reader will receive Captive by Ashley Smith!  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!  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.

The Biggest Story: How The Snake Crusher Brings Us Back To The Garden” book review & giveaway #BIGGESTSTORY #FlyBy

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.
                                            Hardcover: 132 pages
                                            Publisher: Crossway
                                            Ages 5-8 (read to me)
                                            Ages 8-11 (read to myself)

In The Biggest Story, Kevin DeYoung - a best-selling author and father of six - leads kids and parents alike on an exciting journey through the Bible, connecting the dots from the garden of Eden to Christ's death on the cross to the new heave and new earth.  With powerful illustrations by award-winning artist Don Clark, this imaginative retelling of the Bible's core message-how the Snake Crusher brings us back to the garden-will draw children into the biblical story, teaching them that God's promises are even bigger and better than we think.


We love reading bedtime stories.  Kat grew up loving the story of Noah's Ark, and as she grew up, it was wonderful hearing her recite the story to others, and explaining what it meant.  We received  "The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Garden" by Kevin DeYoung to review and we love it!  The book is colorful and beautifully illustrated by Don Clark.  The Bible can be difficult for children and many adults to read. We no longer speak in the way it is presented and sometimes we struggle to truly understand.  This book makes it simple and it is explained in language that everyone will understand.

Kevin DeYoung is senior pastor at University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan.  He blogs at the Gospel Coalition and has authored or coauthored numerous well-known books, including Just Do Something, The Hole in Our Holiness, Crazy Busy, and Taking God At His Word.  He lives with his wife and their 6 children in Central Michigan.









Don Clark is an artist and the co-founder of Invisible Creature, a widely respected and award-winning design studio in Seattle that has worked with clients such as Target, Nike, LEGO, and WIRED magazine.  He lives with his wife and their 3 children, 4 goats, 12 chickens, and 1 crazy dog on a farm just outside the city limits.










You can learn more and follow here:


Would you like to win a copy of this book for your family?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below! Please note:  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.

Monday, September 14, 2015

NICHOLE NORDEMAN'S NEW ALBUM "THE UNMAKING" CD Review & Giveaway #Flyby

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.

Chefy and I love receiving new music to review and were very happy to receive The Unmaking by Nichole Nordeman!  This CD has only 6 songs, but it is a very strong and meaningful CD.  The title song is one of my favorites, because it completely explains how you need to let go and let God.  There is not a single song on this CD that we dislike!  I would much rather have a quality 6 track CD than a poor 12 track CD!

About the new album The Unmaking:
"Before things in our lives can be resurrected and given new life, certain things must die.  Before beauty blooms in spring, roots must do the hard work under the hard frozen soil of winter.  Before you renovate and re-build, you tear down the parts of the structure that are weak or damaged or dangerous.  Before we make, we must unmake."  Nichole Nordeman

TRACKLISTING:

  1. The Unmaking 
  2. Not To Us (featuring Plumb)
  3. Name
  4. Love You More
  5. Something Out Of Me
  6. Slow Down


About Nichole Nordeman:
Nichole Nordeman is a recording artist and songwriter for Sparrow/EMI CMG, with numerous number-one and top ten singles to her credit and cumulative CD sales of over one million.  A two-time Gospel Music Association winner for Female Vocalist of the Year, she has won a total of nine Dove Awards, including the best-selling album, Music Inspired by The Story.  Her best-known songs include "Holy", "Legacy", "Brave", "This Mystery", "Why", and "What If".  She lives with her family in Tulsa, OK.

S O C I A L • C O R N E R






Would you like to win a copy of this wonderful CD for yourself?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below! 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.

Friday, September 11, 2015

Earn in September from Swagbucks and Hefty

During the month of September, you can earn up to 1000 points on Swagbucks when you buy two or more packs of Hefty trash bags at your local Walmart. That's enough for a $10 Walmart gift card!

Here's how it works:
1. Go to your local Walmart and buy a pack of Hefty trash bags, or buy from Walmart online and select the FREE pickup in store option.
2. Take a picture of your purchase along with the qualifying receipt and email it to iredeemedhefty@swagbucks.com - make sure to include your Swagbucks username in the subject line!
3. Get credited with 400 SB. If you purchase two or more packs, you'll get enough SB for a $10 Walmart gift card!

That's all there is to it. If you don't have a Swagbucks account yet, just sign up when you get to the page and this offer will get you enough points for your first free gift card!

Click the image below to learn more!


Hurray for Repaired Internet!

We have been struggling off and on for the last couple months with a very inconsistent internet connection.  We live out in the county and are away from the hub so our high speed is anything but high speed.  We got talked into trying Hughes Net and it was installed for us.  Our connectivity was still sporadic, and I swear that even a partly cloudy day would leave us with no internet.  We also were flying through our monthly allotment of gigabites.  We were not watching movies or anything really.  I was just trying to check email, blog, and occasionally play in a twitter party!  We managed to go through our 10 gigs in 15 days.  So then we were unable to access the internet at all.  UGH!

I have relented and we have our Centurylink high speed DSL back, as well as the Hughes Net. (Thanks to that wonderful contract we stupidly agreed to)  I have cut back our Hughes Net to the lowest package, so it will still be available when our daughter needs to download work for school.  JUST frustrating..and an expensive lesson to learn!

How do you access the internet?  What kind of package do you have?  Do you have any problems?

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Giveaway - The Vampire Diaries: The Complete Sixth Season or The Originals: The Complete Second Season #TVD #TheOriginals

Disclaimer:  No monetary compensation was received for this post.  I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe in.  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.”  Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment!



About The Vampire Diaries The Complete Sixth Season

The Vampire Diaries continues its sixth season with more delicious drama to sink your teeth into. In season five, after a passionate summer with Damon, Elena headed to Whitmore College with Caroline, not knowing Bonnie sacrificed her life for Jeremy’s. Meanwhile, Stefan and Caroline’s friendship deepened as they stood up to the Travelers, a nomadic witch tribe driven to strip Mystic Falls of magic and cast out its supernatural residents. In the shocking season finale, Damon, fearing he would lose his loved ones on the crumbling Other Side, made a huge sacrifice to bring them all back — with catastrophic and heartbreaking results. Season six follows the characters’ journey back to each other as they explore the duality of good versus evil inside themselves. Matt Davis reprises his role as Alaric Saltzman, recently returned from The Other Side. Plus, the season will make you misty-eyed as the departure of a major character will turn lives upside down and leave us asking what happened to Mystic Falls.

Contains All 22 Episodes From The Sixth Season Plus Two Featurettes, An Audio Commentary, The 2014 Comic-Con Panel, Deleted Scenes, And A Gag Reel
The Vampire Diaries on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevampirediaries
The Vampire Diaries on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cwtvd


• Take the "Are you Fit for Vampire Life?" Quiz to find out if you have what it takes to be a creature of the night.
• Take the "Could You Be a Supernatural Being?" Quiz
• Scroll through all the images from the shows and come back every week for new unlocked content.

About The Originals The Complete Second Season 

As Original vampire-werewolf hybrid Klaus Mikaelson returned to the vibrant, supernaturally charged city of New Orleans in season one, he was stunned to learn — along with his siblings Elijah and Rebekah — that Hayley, a werewolf, was pregnant with his child, and his vampire protégé, Marcel, whom the Original siblings had thought long dead, was ruling the French Quarter. Soon, a bloody war escalated between vampires and witches — the stakes raised by powerful teenage witch Davina and by Klaus’s bond with Cami, a student with a painful past — and a ruthless pack of wolves seized the opportunity to stage a violent coup. Now, in season two, a new status quo must be adjusted to, as the newly empowered werewolves control the city. Klaus struggles with weaknesses as Elijah desperately tries to save Hayley — now a hybrid — from a vicious spiral of self-destruction. Meanwhile, with the re-emergence of several Mikaelsons, “family is power” takes on new meaning.

Contains All 22 Episodes From The Second Season Plus Never-Before-Seen Featurettes And Much More!

The Originals on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cworiginals
Ask The Originals on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cworiginals





~ Giveaway~
We are very blessed to be able to give a DVD copy of one of these very cool TV series t!  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below! 

Monday, August 31, 2015

The Bridge Builder: The Life And Continuing Legacy of Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein Review & Giveaway #Flyby #BRIDGEBUILDER

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.

The Bridge Builder is the most recent book that I have been sent to review by FlyBy Promotions. This book tells the amazing story of Yechiel Eckstein, a Chicago-based orthodox rabbi who founded the world’s largest philanthropic organization of Evangelical Christians in support of Israel.  Rabbi Eckstein founded The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews in 1983 and it continues to go strong today.

Not sure what The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews is?
The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews was founded in 1983 by Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein to promote understanding between Jews and Christians and build broad support for Israel and other shared concerns.  Their ministry's vision is that Jews and Christians will reverse their 2,000-year history of discord and replace it with a relationship marked by dialogue, respect, and cooperation.  Among the many things they do as an organization, they also create materials for teaching about the significance of connecting Israel and Christianity through such resources as A Woman of Valor: Celebrating The Proverbs 31 Women In Our Lives, A Man Of Faith: Reflections On Godly Leadership From The Ancient Shepherds Of Israel (both devotionals by Rabbi Eckstein), and Seven Fruits of Israel: Recipes And Devotions From The Holy Land (by Yael Eckstein).


About the Book
When the Anti-Defamation League sent a young Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein to Chicago to foster interfaith relations in the late 1970’s, he was surprised to see how responsive Christian evangelicals were to the cause of supporting and defending Israel.

Eckstein founded The International Fellowship of Christians and Jews in 1983 to promote cross-cultural understanding and build broad support for Israel, Soviet Jewry, and other shared concerns. The Fellowship has grown and thrived over the last three decades, raising more than $1.1 billion, and is one of the largest 50 NGOs in America today. American Christians have become one of Israel’s most reliable sources of financial and moral support.

Few people realize that Eckstein and The Fellowship have done an unprecedented good deed in bridging an ancient cultural gap. Renowned journalist Zev Chafets explores Eckstein’s role in this important interfaith evolution, showing how an American rabbi made major progress in promoting dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect in the face of harsh and unrelenting opposition.

Official Websites:  http://www.ifcj.org/site/PageNavigator/eng/USENG_homenew
                                          http://www.rabbieckstein.org

Twitter:  @TheFellowship
                     @RabbiEckstein

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/FellowshipFan
                  https://www.facebook.com/RabbiEckstein

YouTube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/user/IFCJ25

Website to Purchase: http://www.amazon.com/Bridge-Builder-Continuing-Yechiel-Eckstein/dp/1591846781/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1437669903&sr=8-1-fkmr2&keywords=Rabbi+Yechiel+Eckstein,+Building+Bridges,+Changing+Lives

My review:
This book is well written and it does tell you about Rabbi Eckstein and about all the money he has raised for The Fellowship.  He has been beneficial in establishing a better cross-cultural understanding between Jews and Christians.  As a born again Christian, I do believe that the children of Israel are God's chosen people, but I also know that they rejected that Jesus is the Messiah.  Because of that, Salvation was opened to the Gentiles.  I am one of those Gentiles!  I believe that Jesus was fully human, and that He is GOD.  I try to wrap my head around the differences in the ways my beliefs differ from Jewish people, and it is mind blowing.  BUT... I support Israel.  The book was good, but I did feel that it went over the same thing numerous times.  You will read about a lot of people and their thoughts on Christian-Jewish relations, how Rabbi Eckstein over came problems, and about the money he has raised.

If you would like a chance to read The Bridge Builder, by winning  a copy, simply enter on the rafflecopter form below.

Friday, August 28, 2015

Orkin Household Pests 101 Back to School Pack Giveaway

Disclaimer:  No monetary compensation was received for this post.  I will be receiving a prize pack as a thank you for posting.  I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe in.  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.”  Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment!

It’s back-to-school time and class is in session … Orkin is back with Household Pests 101 – featuring some of Orkin’s scientific knowledge of pests. The Orkin Man is here to help you #LearnWithOrkin so you don’t get schooled by pest problems in your own home.

But Back-To-School doesn’t just mean for the kids. Orkin knows that moms are on the go more than ever and wants to make sure you’re all set when driving the kids to soccer practice, racing to make it to school on time and just maybe getting a minute for yourself!  Take the Pest Prevention Pop Quiz to find out if you know how to think like a pest!


• Class is in session! Orkin is back with Household Pests 101 – featuring some of Orkin’s scientific knowledge of pests. The Orkin Man is here to help you #LearnWithOrkin so you don’t get schooled by pest problems in your own home.
• Watch the “Bite Back at Mosquitoes” video, as well as the rest of Orkin’s How-To video series, to get the most up-to-date knowledge on dealing with those pesky home invaders.
• Download the “Protect Your Home” Checklist for valuable tips on keeping pests at bay.

About Orkin:
Orkin uses the latest technology and unparalleled training to develop an effective treatment that's right for your needs. To learn more about their pest control based in science or to schedule an inspection, visit orkin.com or call 1-800-800-ORKIN.

Orkin on Facebook: facebook.com/OrkinPestControl
Ask The Orkin Man® on Twitter: twitter.com/AskTheOrkinMan
Orkin YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/OrkinVideo

~~~~~GIVEAWAY~~~~~
One lucky Shelly's Bits and Pieces reader will receive a nice prize pack from Orkin which contains:

One (1) Silver USB Portable Charger – We know you’re on the go from sun up to sun down and you can’t afford not to be accessible. This emergency charger is small, sleek and can help your phone keep up with your busy lifestyle!
One (1) Double Wall Stainless Steel Travel Mug w/ lid - Your car isn’t the only thing that needs fueling up in the morning … this stainless steel travel mug is a great way to ensure your morning coffee is always within arm’s reach.
One (1) Orkin “Protect Your Home” PDF Checklist - This handy checklist from the experts at Orkin will help you think like a pest in order to help protect your home from pests.

 Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below to enter to win!

Thursday, August 27, 2015

Go Back to School with Delicious Soup from The Original Soupman

Disclosure:  No monetary compensation was received for this post.  Shelly's Bits and Pieces only blogs about products we believe in and enjoy.  All opinions stated are honest and are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.  We will receive samples as a thank you for posting.

Back to School season signals the end of summer and the beginning of the cooler temperatures of fall.  It also signals the beginning of soup season!  Although NC does not really get good and cool until November or December, nothing beats a good, hot bowl of soup on a chilly afternoon or evening.  Soup brings lots of nutritional value to your meal, because soups are usually filling and also have energy density, which means less calories per gram than solid foods.

The Original SoupMan has a soup perfect for everyone. This delectable soup is available in such flavors as: Lobster Bisque, Crab Bisque, Minestrone, Chicken Gumbo, Crab & Corn Chowder, Chicken Noodle, Lentil, Chicken Vegetable, Jambalya, New England Clam Chowder, Shrimp Bisque and Tomato Basil to name a few.

The Original SoupMan soup is cooked in small batches, with wholesome ingredients, and has no added MSG like other brands. The soup is NOT packed in cans. Instead, the soups are packaged in environmentally safe Tetra-Paks, so there are no harmful BPAs found in their packaging – and they are recyclable.

If you are like me, you remember the Soupman from Seinfield.  The Original Soupman has teamed up with actor Larry Thomas, the “Original Soupman” who infamously shouted the phrase “No Soup for You” on the iconic television series Seinfeld, to promote the Soupman brand across America.  How cool is that?  He will even be serving up soup occasionally at the landmark NYC store.

About Soupman, Inc.
In 1984, The Original SoupMan opened its doors at 55th Street & 8th Avenue in Manhattan and quickly became a worldwide destination. Rated #1 by Zagat and praised by the New York Times as "Art, not Soup," it set the standard for innovation and excellence long before the famous “Seinfeld” episode made it a cultural icon. We sell soup across America to in Tetra Pak cartons grocery stores next to Campbell’s and Progresso as well in our franchise restaurants, soupmobiles and foodservices.  Shaquille O'Neal is an advisor and equity partner, as are Mr. October, Reggie Jackson and the award-winning actor, Jason Alexander. Lloyd Sugarman, co-founder of Johnny Rockets Hamburgers, is our Chairman of the Board. Soupman Inc., is a fully reporting public company trading under the symbol SOUP. For additional information on the company please visit:www.originalsoupman.com Follow on Twitter @OriginalSoupMan and "Like" on Facebook.

What do you think?  Have you ever been to the restaurant or have you tried any of the soups?  Share your experiences!  I'd love to hear about it!

Back to School Deliciousness - The Real Co Spicy White Basmati Rice Bowl with Chicken & Veggies Recipe

Disclosure:  No monetary compensation was received for this post.  Shelly's Bits and Pieces only blogs about products we believe in and enjoy.  All opinions stated are honest and are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.  We will receive samples as a thank you for posting.

Recently, I have been learning about The Real Co and discovering some of their wonderful products.  Never heard of The Real Co?  Let me enlighten you!

The Real Food Co was founded in 2013 in Valley Cottage, New York with a direct farm-to-market approach for the organic food industry. The new 100% Single Origin Foods concept supports farms at their source, cuts out the middleman, and delivers directly to the U.S. market, cutting costs of products compared to other manufacturers.  The Real Co, Inc celebrates the change of seasons and Back-to-School with the first certifiable 100% Single Origin products including Himalayan Pink Rock Salt, Organic Raw Cane Sugar, and organically grown White Basmati Rice

The Real Co White Basmati Rice has no additives, no chemicals, no pesticides, no GMO and NOTHING added. The Real Co White Basmati Rice is a “super grain”, containing all essential Amino Acids and folic acid, and is gluten free and cholesterol free. 


The Real Co Organic Raw Cane Sugar has no additives, no pesticides, no chemicals, no GMO and no non-caking agents added. The Real Co Organic Cane Sugar is unrefined sugar, offering the full taste of natural sugar and nothing like the fake, white sugar on many kitchen tables. This sugar contains 17 Amino Acids, 11 minerals and 6 vitamins, as well as antioxidants that may reverse oxidative damage.

The Real Co Himalayan Pink Rock Salt has no additives, no anti-caking agents, no chemicals, and no GMO. This salt packs a whopping 80 plus minerals and elements which are noted for many health benefits including reducing blood pressure, preventing muscle cramping, strengthening bones and more.

The Real Co offers transparency to the consumer, and is developing the first 
Certification of 100% Single Origin Foods in the U.S. The Real Co is available nationwide in numerous stores in every state, also on Amazon.com; Healthygoodness.com
 at The Market in California, Natural Grocers (national), ShopRite, Westerly Natural Market, Kings, Balducci and Healthy Goodness. A full list state by state is available at TheReal.co.

My family recently received samples of these three products and we have thoroughly enjoyed all of them.  We prepared the Spicy White Basmati Rice  Bowl with Chicken and Veggies recipe and it was love at first bite.  It was NOT too spicy which was perfect for me.  I'm happy to share the recipe with you.  Enjoy!

The Real Co Spicy White Basmati Rice Bowl with Chicken & Veggies

Ingredients:

2 cups The Real Co White Basmati Rice
1 tablespoon   olive oil
1 ½ cups organic, fresh vegetables cut into similar sizes (carrots, mushrooms, peas, zucchini, etc.)
1 cup chopped celery
2 grilled chicken breasts, cut into similar sizes as vegetables

Directions:
After cooking all ingredients, toss with Spicy Sauce, below

Spicy Sauce
Ingredients:
1 cup low salt teriyaki sauce
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon Fresh ginger (grated)
1/2 cup         organic BBQ sauce
1 teaspoon The Real Co Organic Raw Cane Sugar
1 tablespoon whole wheat flour
3 tablespoons water

Directions:
1. Bring all ingredients, above, to a rolling boil then reduce heat to low.
2. Mix the flour and water well, then add to the simmering sauce a little at a time. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Cool for another 5 minutes and add to your Spicy Rice Bowl

Our whole family enjoyed this meal and I am happy to be able to share it, and these wonderful products, with you!  I love knowing where my food is coming from, and with The Real Co, I never have to wonder!


.

Lose the Guilt and Enjoy Garden Lites Mac and Cheese

Disclosure:  No monetary compensation was received for this post.  Shelly's Bits and Pieces only blogs about products we believe in and enjoy.  All opinions stated are honest and are those of the Shelly's Bits and Pieces family.  We will receive samples as a thank you for posting.

It is time for the kids to go back to school and once again, Garden Lites comes up with a new product that is not only delicious, but good for you.  Garden Lites, a pioneer in the wholesome food area, has a mission to create DELICIOUS foods that are good for your body!  You would never know by the delicious taste, but every one of the foods is veggie-rich with vegetables as its first ingredient. Remember,  the one message on health that has never changed is “eat your vegetables”.
The suggested retail price of Garden Lites® Mac & Cheese is $3.99

Garden Lites® Mac & Cheese turns the old standby classic comfort food on its head, with a full serving of vegetables. Garden Lites® Mac & Cheese has only 240 calories per serving, is packed with 12 grams of protein, 25 percent of your daily calcium needs and only 10 grams of fat. Best of all, your family will thank you, since this creamy vegetable-rich Mac & Cheese will not only be your kids’ favorite meal but now also a great way to include healthy vegetables in 4 minutes, right in your microwave.  Garden Lites® are in the frozen section of food stores nationwide. . 

There is no reason to give up on comfort food!  Mac and cheese has been a favorite or mine as long as I can remember and now I can eat a healthier version.  The fact that Garden Lites Mac & Cheese has 12 grams of protein and only 10 grams of fat per 240 calorie serving is awesome.  We consider it a win-win!

What do you think?  Have you ever tried any Garden Lites products?  We have tried lots of them and have NEVER been disappointed.  Share your thoughts with me!  I'd love to hear them.



Thursday, August 20, 2015

The Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB Review and 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.

Being a preacher's kid, I have a LOT of different Bibles and Biblical study reference books. Sometimes when I am studying the Word, I feel like the books are beyond my understanding.  Kat has asked me questions in the past that were difficult for me to fully answer.  We received the
Apologetics Study Bible for Students to review and immediately Kat took it over.  She asked to write this review so I am leaving the rest up to her.


When I first saw the title of this Bible, I was a bit confused.  The word "apologetics" made me think that it was giving me ways to apologize, or say I am sorry for being a Christian.  Thankfully, I was completely mistaken.  The Apologetics Study Bible is all about being prepared with answers.  The Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB helps anchor younger Christians in the truths of Scripture, equipping them with thoughtful and practical responses for whenever the core issues of their faith and life are challenged, while helping them better articulate their beliefs with non-believers.  This is very important to me because I have had my Christian beliefs challenged more than once.

Multiple research studies have shown that spiritual focus often weakens among teenagers as they head into the attention-dividing realm of young adulthood.  Up to 66 percent of them leave church altogether.  I could not believe that statistic.  It is so sad!

There are a lot of special things about this Bible.  The Apologetics Study Bible for Students HCSB features include:

  •  Book Introductions for each of the sixty-six books of the Bible.
  •  Study Notes provide evidence of the reliability and truthfulness of Scripture.
  •  120 Articles written by today's leading Christian thinkers dealing with life's ultimate questions.
  •  60 Twisted Scriptures address ways that various religious movements distort Scripture to support doctrine contrary to historic Christian teaching.
  • Two-color design-intensive layout on every page for the visual generation
  • 50 “Bones & Dirt” entries (archaeology meets apologetics)
  • 50 “Notable Quotes”
  • 25 “Tactics” against common anti-Christian arguments
  • 20 “Personal Stories” of how God has worked in real lives
  • 20 “Top Five” lists to help remember key apologetics topics

I love it!  I have learned more about how to respond to the questions and smart comments of non-believers.

This summer, the gift of Confident Faith is being celebrated with 16 brand new, but energetic and brief videos featuring Sean McDowell, free resources like Bible studies and articles as well as wonderful specials on apps and Bibles.  AND, if that weren't enough, a Confident Faith Sweepstakes is being offered to give away Bibles, free mini libraries of B&H's best apologetics resources and even a trip for two to the National Conference on Christian Apologetics (NCCA) being held October 16-17, 2015 in Charlotte, NC where some of the world's leading thinkers will offer insights and teaching. 

Official Website:  www.apologeticsbible.com
Official Website to Purchase:  http://www.lifeway.com/Keyword/The+apologetics+study+bible+for+students

Here is one of the videos that really appealed to me:

Mom and I have gone over most of the videos and there is so much to learn from each one.  I really recommend this for your teens, and maybe some preteens.  The gift of a Confident Faith is very important.  Understanding how to explain your beliefs is why this Bible is special to me.  I am Confident in my Faith!

Would you like to win a copy for your family?  Mom and I are very pleased that we are being allowed to giveaway a copy.  Enter on the Rafflecopter form and you could win!

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Patterns of Evidence Exodus DVD- review & giveaway #PATTERNSOFEVIDENCE #FLYBY

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.

I love being a reviewer for Propeller Consulting.  I never have to worry about getting things to review that are outside of my moral structure.  The newest item I received for review is Patterns of Evidence - Exodus on DVD.  Learn more about the DVD below then I'll tell you my thoughts!

About Patterns of Evidence Exodus:
For more than 50 years, the vast majority of the world's most prominent archaeologists and historians have proclaimed that there is no hard evidence to support the Exodus story found in the Bible.  In fact, they say that the archaeological record is completely opposed to the Bible's account.  This view of extreme skepticism has spread from academia to the world.  The case against the Exodus appears to be so strong that even some religious leaders are labeling this ancient account as historical fiction.  Filmmaker Timothy Mahoney begins with the questions, "Is the Bible just a myth, or did the archaeologists get it wrong?"  He decides to tackle this issue wit a deliberate scientific approach.   After examining the details in the biblical text, he journeys across the globe to search for patterns of evidence firsthand.  The result is the most in-depth archaeological investigation into the Exodus from Egypt ever captured on film.   This scientific documentary's goal is to communicate the TRUTH of the Bible and help equip believers with defending their faith and the Bible.

The DVD features stunning animations and a cast including narrator, Kevin Sorbo (God's Not Dead, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys), interviews with leading archaeologists including Israel Finkelstein, Kent Weeks, and David Rohl, and guest appearances by Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu and Shimon Peres.




Twitter:  @PattofEvidence
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/PatternsofEvidence
Official Website:  http://patternsofevidence.com
Official Website to Purchase:  http://shop.patternsofevidence.com
Blog featuring interviews with director Tim Mahoney and an article by Anne Graham Lotz:  http://patternsofevidence.tumblr.com

Our Thoughts:
My family loves history and Biblical history is a huge plus.  We are believers that the Bible is 100% true and it is not a parable.  I have seen many documentaries who are all about trying to prove that the Bible is not based on fact.  It was nice to finally see a documentary where they were trying to follow the patterns to find the evidence.  We really enjoyed this documentary and found that things were explained in everyday language so that we could all understand what they were talking about.  When watching this with younger kids, you might want to watch this DVD in 2-3 parts because it does run around 2 hours.  We highly recommend this to anyone who wants to delve more into the Exodus!

Want to win a copy for your family?  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!   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.

Sunday, August 9, 2015

Ozeri 3x Tower Fan (44") with Passive Noise Reduction Technology Review

Disclosure:  I received this fan at no charge to facilitate my honest review.  Receiving this free product did not influence my opinion at all!

My husband swears that I am the most hot natured person he knows.  When we go to bed, I sleep with only a sheet, year round, while he uses a bed spread.  I cannot sleep without having a fan at night, but have found that most of the fans we have purchased are too loud for bedtime.  We were thrilled when our Ozeri 3x Tower Fan (44") with Passive Noise Reduction Technology arrived.

Featuring unrivalled technology, the new Ozeri 3x 44" Tower Fan defines the latest in stylistic innovation and digital décor with its visually stunning design, slim form factor and elegant glass base stand. At less than 3 inches thick, the 3x Tower fan is one of the world's thinnest fans and boasts 3 independently controllable fans with passive noise cancellation technology for remarkable airflow velocity at less than 50dB. The 3x Tower Fan's passive noise reduction technology utilizes the physics of blade curvature to generate mitigating sound waves that reduce blade noise and help isolate the soothing sounds of the airflow itself. The 3x Tower fan is engineered with 3 independently controllable fans and 3 fan speeds, offering up to 9 levels of cooling and the ultimate in customized airflow. It also features 3 preprogrammed airflow patterns designed to foster sleep, relaxation and comfort with 90 degree whisper-quiet oscillation for optimal air circulation for timely relief on a sweltering summer day or for refreshing circulation all year long. The Ozeri 3x Tower Fan also features a 7.5 hour timer that can be programmed in 30 minute increments with ease. All of the Fan's features, including programmable timer, easily controlled via the included extended-range remote or via the touch sensitive LED control panel. The 3x Tower fan features a dismountable design that only requires the hand assembly of fan base using an included large nut, with no tools required. Satisfaction guaranteed.

Ozeri 3x Tower Fan (44") with Passive Noise Reduction Technology was super easy to put together and is the ideal height for use in my bedroom.  I  use the top and middle fans and turn off the bottom one when we are sleeping, and it provides a quiet cool!  When I am working in the floor, I use the middle and bottom fans.  I love having a remote control for this fan too, because I can change the wind speed, airflow pattern, and I can even set a timer!  I would highly recommend this fan to anyone who is looking for a quiet, quality fan!
*Thank you to Ozeri for providing me with this wonderful fan to review!*

Friday, August 7, 2015

Get More When You Join the Dial Rewards Program! #purexinsiders

Disclosure:  I received free points and will receive more free points for people who enter with my code.  No monetary compensation was received.

One of the things I love most about being a Purex Insider is that I get to try great products and learn about new programs.  Recently I learned about the Dial Rewards Program that is being offered.  It is a wonderful program where you can earn points for purchasing Dial products and for doing various tasks on the Rewards website.  You can enter 6T2MW into the code box and you'll earn points, and so will I!  The videos on the website are really short and you earn points for watching them.  You get 50 points just for signing up!

After spending just a few minutes on the page, I have already earned over 10,000 points.  Right now you can use your points to enter various giveaways for some awesome gift cards?  Check it out!  You have nothing to lose and lots of points to gain!


Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Pizza Ranch and the Living Hope CD Project Review & 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.

On June 2, 2015, Pizza Ranch released a CD called Living Hope containing twelve songs from many of their favorite Christian artists.  Most of the songs are brand-new and written exclusively for this CD around the theme of Hope.  Artists include Colton Dixon, Francesca Batistelli, Ellie Holcomb, Sidewalk Prophets, Kevin Max, Bart Millard, Passion Band featuring Kristian Stanfill, Michael W. Smith, and Mark Schultz.  

The CD will be available to purchase for $5 plus tax exclusively in Pizza Ranch restaurants or for download at pizzaranch.com/livinghope through August 31.  

From Adrie Groeneweg, President & CEO of Pizza Ranch, Inc.:  "This album has a very special meaning for Pizza Ranch.  Although Pizza Ranch is not in the music business, many things have been happening, conversations have been taking place and doors have been opening for this album. Through these events, I believe it was obvious that God has been behind this for His specific purpose and putting it on our hearts to collectively create this project.  As such, we call this our miracle album, Living Hope."

About Pizza Ranch:  Adrie Groeneweg had a dream that started in Hull, IA, in 1981, when he was just 19 years old.  It was simple.  Why does everyone have to drive out of town to get a pizza?  With just six specialty and single topping pizza recipes developed by Adrie's mother, Lorraine, Pizza Ranch was born.  Pizza Ranch's vision and mission is to glorify God by positively impacting the world and to give every guest a legendary experience.  They have 190+ locations across 13 states including Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Nebraska, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.

We love Christian music and were very happy to receive Living Hope to review.  The CD  is filled with songs of hope which are desperately needed in the trying times of today.  Living Hope is the perfect way to honor God while you are traveling. There are so many wonderful songs on the CD which makes choosing a favorite very difficult!  My favorites at the moment are "Day One" by Matthew West and "Hope of Heaven" by Michael W. Smith.

Since there are no Pizza Ranch restaurants around here, I'll have to dream about the pizza, but next time we are out West, I'll make sure to stop.  Do you have a Pizza Ranch in your neck of the woods?

You can learn more about Pizza Ranch and the Living Hope CD through these links:

Twitter:  @PizzaRanch @PRServes

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/PizzaRanchRacing

Official Website:  http://www.pizzaranch.com/livinghope/

YouTube Channel (features images and videos of the artists talking about the story behind each song):  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE9lEnxuNzMyLfRyX8_tiLA

Press Release with additional information about the Living Hope CD project:  https://t.e2ma.net/message/7tnbk/7l1cgr

One lucky Shelly's Bits and Pieces reader will win a copy of LivingHope.  Simply enter on the rafflecopter form below!