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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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!*

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!