Making Reading Fun for the Whole Family + an iPad mini giveaway!

I admit it. I was the child who carried a book out to recess. I've always been an avid reader. Now that I have children of my own, I'm looking for ways to instill that same passion for reading in my children. We own a ton of books. A ton. So many in fact, that my son felt compelled to load the kitchen sink with books. . .

Our bookshelves are overflowing, and yet I know that there are so many other great books out there. I know that by opening my children's eyes to the joy of reading, I'm equipping them for success in many other areas of life.

If you're like me, your home is probably already stuffed with toys, books, etc. Wouldn't it be great if there was a way to have access to hundreds of books and not have to worry about where you are going to put them all? That's why I'm so excited about the new program from Bookboard.

Bookboard is an ipad app that custom tailors book selections for each child in your family (from toddlers up to age 12). It's super easy to sign up. Answer a few questions about the readers in your family and Bookboard will customize a library for each specific child. The more your kids read, the more books they unlock based on their reading habits and interests. New books and features are added each month to help keep your child coming back for more.

For a limited time, you can try the service for a full month for FREE, and see how it works in your own home. If you sign up and read one of the 300 available books with your child, you will be automatically entered in a giveaway for an iPad mini. Pretty sweet deal. 

About Bookboard:


Bookboard is a children’s book service that encourages and supports a new generation of readers with a different approach to reading on digital devices.  Rather than providing a digital marketplace where families buy and download books, Bookboard offers an affordable subscription service that allows instant exploration of a vast, curated library.  

Bookboard aims to inspire young readers by helping them discover new titles and earn fun achievements. As they read, families discover, unlock, and collect great stories to foster a sense of accomplishment that keeps kids coming back for more. At the same time, parents can track reading progress, and use our fun metrics to motivate kids to read even more.


Want to learn more? Check out their informational video on their homepage here.

Don't want to share your iPad? You can enter to win one for your family from Bookboard!
When you sign up for Bookboard and read a book by February 11th, you are automatically entered in a chance to win a free iPad mini. Rules and details can be found at the Bookboard website.



Thanks to Bookboard for sponsoring today's discussion.

No nonsense: Style Made Easy

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of No nonsense for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

 

One of the perks of being a stay-at-home mom is the dress code. I have to admit, I love sweatpants . . . probably a little too much. I knew I had a problem when my son saw me putting on a pair of jeans and asked "Where are we going?" We weren't going anywhere. . .

 

That being said, I enjoy "dressing up." I really do think that I feel better when I have a more put-together look. No nonsense offers a great assortment of cute and colorful leggings and tights to help you jazz up your outfits for the new year. They can be a great way to add a pop of color to your current wardrobe or in a more neutral color they can be used to build a really cute outfit.

 

No Nonsense Tights : Diamond Mesh Control Top Tights; Outfit Design by Sarah  

 

I recently received a pair of No nonsense tights and leggings from No nonsense. I love the tights. They look great with a skirt and a pair of boots. Plus, they keep my legs warm during the super cold winter months. I love pairing the leggings with a long tunic top and a cute pair of flats or my favorite slingback high heels.

 

No Nonsense Leggings by sarahtex 

 

 

 

I think leggings and tights are a must-have if you live in a colder climate. They are so versatile (and keep my legs warm and comfortable).

 

Since we live on a pretty strict budget, I'm not going to just go out and spend $50 on a pair of designer leggings. I like that No nonsense is definitely affordable and it's available at a ton of retailers (everywhere from drugstores to retailers like Wal-Mart). They're good quality and a great price - you can't beat that.  

 

Access Hollywood correspondent, Jill Martin, is the new Brand Ambassador for No nonsense, she'll be putting together some great online videos showing women how to incorporate the latest fashions and styles into their wardrobes. 

 

Want to stay up to date with the latest information from No nonsense, Including information on an upcoming contest involving Jill Martin and a New York City Shopping Spree???? Just check out  No nonsense on Facebook and Twitter. 

 

http://www.facebook.com/nononsense

https://twitter.com/benononsense

 

Giveaway! "Love Finds You in Glacier Bay"

I am super excited to be a part of Tricia Goyer's 2013 promotion team. I recently had a chance to review her latest novel, Love Finds You in Glacier Bay. It's an enjoyable read for anyone wanting to "escape" to Alaska - I seriously want to load up my stuff and head to Glacier Bay for a visit, it sounds absolutely beautiful.

Would you like a chance to win your very own copy of Love Finds You in Glacier Bay by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss? Of course you would :-) The authors have generously offered a book to one of my readers.

It's super easy to enter and win:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Want more chances to win? Check out these other fantastic blogs offering giveaways :-)

Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska

Sometimes the love we've always wanted is the one we've always had.

Ginny Marshal was about to have her dreams realized: a lucrative recording contract, growing fame, and a relationship with one of People Magazine's most eligible bachelors, and yet something was holding her back. Ginny had to figure out what to do, and she could only think of one person who could help - her former fiance, Brett Miller. She hops on a plane to Glacier Bay, Alaska, looking for answers, but she found so much more.

When Miller's grandmother hands Ginny a stack of old letters, she is drawn into the story of Clay, an early missionary to Alaska, and Ellie, who came to serve as a governess to his children after the death of his wife.

Far from the smog and traffic in LA, Ginny rediscovers the beauty of God's creation in Glacier Bay, Alaska, and learns that sometimes love finds you where you least expect it.

I love a good romance, and the nice thing about Love Finds You (LFY) in Glacier Bay is that you actually get to enjoy two love stories in one. I really enjoyed reading Ellie's story, told in letter form. Just like Ginny, I was desperate to find out what happened next. I had a hard time putting the book down.

I enjoyed learning about the rich history of Alaska's early settlers. Through the letters and journal entries, I felt like I got a small glimpse of what life might have been like for those living in the Alaskan frontier.

I've never been to Alaska, but after reading this book, I want to hop on a plane and check out Glacier Bay for myself. It sounds like it's absolutely breathtaking.

I also appreciated the elements of faith woven into the story. Sometimes I feel like some authors of Christian fiction dump the gospel into a story in ways that feel unnatural or forced, but in LFY in Glacier Bay, the story is seasoned with grace - the characters aren't the picture of saintly perfection, they are human beings with flaws and a history. I love redemption stories, and that's what this one is. It's a great reminder that God's plans and purposes may not always work out the way we have planned, but they are always for our ultimate good.

I received a complimentary copy of the book to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed are my honest thoughts of the novel.

2012 Year in Review

Happy New Year everyone! I love new beginnings, they give us a chance to start again. I always think it's great to take some time to look back on the last year. It's easier for me to figure out where I want to go next if I take some time to reflect on the journey. 

1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

I was able to accomplish a pretty big goal, running a half-marathon on Nov. 11. I'm pretty proud of that, simply because it was something I didn't know that I was capable of doing. 

2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?

I think the most challenging thing for me has been learning how to balance the needs of my family with my own personal needs. When either gets out of balance then both suffer. Motherhood is both a joy and a challenge. If I don't take care of myself, then motherhood risks becoming a burden instead of a blessing. 

3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?

I had the chance to attend the MOPS International Convention at the Gaylord hotel in Grapevine, TX. It was a lot of fun and a great time of being refreshed and renewed. 

4. What was an unexpected obstacle?

I've had some ups and downs with my health this year. It's been an obstacle trying to discover what was causing some symptoms. Nothing life-threatening, but it has certainly caused some frustrations. Now that we've got some answers, I'm ready to get back to "normal."

5. Pick three words to describe 2012.

Busy. Challenging. Fun.

6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2012—don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you. 

Busy. Full. Hectic.

7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2012.

Busy. Busy. Busy. (I'm noticing a recurrent theme, here.)

8. What were the best books you read this year?

I've enjoyed Stephen Lawhead's Bright Empires Trilogy. I also got sucked into the Hunger Game books. 

9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?

My husband, children, and family. 

10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?

I joined the YMCA and started making physical fitness a priority. 

11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?

I'm continuing to learn the importance of balance and self-care. 

12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?

2012 has been a challenge in many ways. The business of daily life, the frantic pace, the 4:45 AM mornings have often left me worn out. God has taught me that even during this stage of life, he can use me. For whatever reason, He's really put it on my heart to encourage other mothers. Perhaps its because I never realized how challenging motherhood can be (especially for SAHMs of young children) until I was in the throes of it myself.  

13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?

I started setting physical goals. I ran a half-marathon which is something I never dreamed I was capable of doing. 

14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?

I've had the opportunity to build friendships more, both with the ladies in leadership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and my friends from church. 

15. What was the most enjoyable part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

I love blogging. I may not have the freedom to travel the world, but I love the ability to connect and impact with people from all over the place. It's encouraging to know that God can use you exactly where you are.

On the homefront, I've loved watching my boys grow and develop this year. Ben (age 3) is so smart. I love hearing what comes out of his mouth. Andrew's (19 months) little personality is the cutest thing. I love it when his smile squishes up his entire face. 

16. What was the most challenging part of your work (both professionally and at home)?

The most challenging thing for me has been finding a workable schedule. I would love to make time to write, but I have found that if I don't guard my time (or use it well) then a whole day escapes and I've done absolutely nothing productive. . . and my house is still a mess :-) 

17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?

Uh oh. . . it has to be Facebook . . . and Pinterest. I'm pretty sure I spend way to much time on social media, but my smartphone just makes it so dadgum convenient, lol. I could probably have a spotless house and four novels under my belt if I just turned it off, but it's my connection to the "outside world" and to family and friends scattered literally across the globe. 

18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?

The best way I used my time was probably time spent with family. People beat out things every time. I'm also proud of my blogs http://mommys-minute.blogspot.com and www.lettertoamom.com.

19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?

If you want to run a half-marathon, just keep running. 

20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2012 for you.

Never give up. Never surrender. :-) 

The questions were created by Tsh at Simple Mom. 

KLOVE Acoustic Christmas Tour

I'm so excited that Christmas time is here! It really is my favorite time of year. Nothing helps me get in the holiday spirit more than some good Christmas music. This year, KLOVE is presenting the Acoustic Christmas Tour sponsored by World Vision's Survive to Five, Grand Canyon University, and 25 Entertainment.

The tour features Grammy nominee Sanctus Real, Sidewalk Prophets, and Dara Maclean.

I had a chance to speak with Dara Maclean after their opening night in Oklahoma City, OK.

"When people are coming to an evening on the Acoustic Christmas tour they’re going to experience a really intimate set," said Maclean. "I’m doing a three piece jazz set, and then Sidewalk Prophets does more than that, but it’s more of a stripped down version. For me, just the evening in itself is so intimate. It’s Christmas music, and when you’re with people who are so sweet and supportive, it’s kind of like you are with family."

As part of the Acoustic Christmas Tour, KLOVE is also partnering with World Vision's Survive to Five program with a goal of sponsoring 600 children between the ages newborn to five. As a mom in America, it's hard to imagine my preschoolers facing death due to malnutrition, malaria, and other preventable diseases, but for many mothers in countries around the world, this fear is a reality. World Vision's Survive to Five program seeks to combat these preventable deaths through child sponsorship. I can't think of a better way to celebrate the Christmas season than to bring hope and help to a child on the other side of the world. 

The tour promises to provide a great evening of entertainment that is safe for the whole family. 
 
“Christmas is our favorite time of year. Celebrating the birth of Christ through song and stories always gets us
excited, and getting to tour the country and do just that make it the most wonderful time of year for certain. We are honored to team up with our family at 25 Entertainment and our dear friends at K-LOVE to pour out our hearts alongside the awesomeness that is Sanctus Real and our good friend Dara Maclean. It is going to be a fun and worshipful time, and we are counting down the days until Christmas time is here,” says Dave Frey of Sidewalk Prophets.


The Acoustic Christmas Tour provides the audience a chance for an intimate evening of Christmas music and worship. They'll be travelling to fifteen locations across the country.

Acoustic Christmas Tour Dates:
November 29, 2012 Oklahoma City, OK First Church of the Nazarene
November 30, 2012 Amarillo, TX Church at Quail Creek
December 1, 2012 Albuquerque, NM Eastern Hills Baptist Church
December 2 , 2012 Denver, CO West Bowles Community Church
December 4, 2012 Bozeman, MT Journey Church
December 5, 2012 Pasco, WA Faith Assembly Pasco
December 6, 2012 Bend, OR Christian Life Center
December 7, 2012 Portland, OR New Hope Community Church
December 8, 2012 Sacramento, CA Warehouse Ministries
December 9, 2012 Fresno, CA Warnors Theatre
December 10, 2012 Reno, NV Sparks Christian Fellowship
December 12, 2012 San Diego, CA Skyline Church
December 13, 2012 Phoenix, AZ Grand Canyon University
December 15, 2012 Midland, TX Mid Cities Community Church
December 16, 2012 San Antonio, TX Oak Hills Church

Tickets are on sale now. Tour sponsors include: K-LOVE, World Vision’s Survive to Five, Grand Canyon
University and 25 Entertainment. For more information on K- LOVE and 25 Entertainment’s Acoustic
Christmas Tour, please visit: www.acousticchristmastour.com or check them out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AcousticChristmasTour.

**Come back tomorrow for my interview with Dove Award Nominee, Dara Maclean. **

(1/2) Marathon Mom

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us . . ."

Hebrews 12:1

This weekend I did something I never really thought would be possible. I ran a half-marathon. To those who don't know me, you might think, "What's the big deal? It's not like you ran a full marathon." But for those who do know me, you will know that before February 2012, I couldn't even run a mile. Slowly and surely, I built up my endurance. I had a goal in mind and I was determined to reach it. 

I now completely understand why Paul and other biblical writers use the race analogy to describe the Christian faith. It's not a sprint. It's more like a marathon. 

The power of encouragement
I remember at one point in the race I passed under an overpass discovered a hill full of people. Some held signs with handwritten messages. Others cheered on runners with bells and whistles. They clapped and they cheered. They encouraged us to keep running, not to give up. Their encouragement lifted my spirit and I picked up my feet. I kept running. 

Because the race was on a Sunday, I didn't have my own cheering squad to root me on in person. These people I had never met encouraged me to keep going. 

The course I ran was an out and back style, meaning that I ran about 6.5 miles and then turned around and headed back toward the starting line. This meant that at certain points of the race, those who were ahead of me and had already reached the turn-around point were headed in my direction. 

Every now and then, one of those runners on their way to the finish line would shout out words of encouragement. "Keep going! You're almost there! You can do it!" 

The same is true of the Christian life. The writer of Hebrews says that we are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. When I passed under that overpass and saw the crowd of people sitting on the hillside, the last thing I wanted to do was to slow my pace and start walking. Why? There was a crowd of witnesses. I picked up my pace and I kept running. 

Scripture says that we are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. Sometimes it consists of people running the race alongside us, other times it's people we've never met who encourage us from the sidelines - through their words and through the stories of their lives. 

Running is just as much mental as it is physical
Want to know how to run a half-marathon? It's easy - don't stop running. Even if your legs are tired and you'd rather just call it a day, keep putting one foot in front of the other. 

During the months I trained before the race I observed something about myself. If I had a negative attitude about my ability to do something, it made it that much harder to do it. If while on a long run I repeated "I can't do this. I can't do this. I want to stop right now." Then it felt like the miles went on forever and each step was a struggle. If I changed my thoughts to reflect positive things like "Each step is making me stronger. I can do this. Keep moving. Look how far you've come," I found that although the run was still challenging, it no longer felt overwhelming. 

The same is true in my every day life. It's not that difficult to find something to complain about. If I wanted to, I could dwell on everything that's not going right. It would make my days long and suck the joy right out of life. Or, I could consciously choose to practice gratitude. Gratitude changes attitude. Trust me, it's something I have to intentionally do. I'm pretty good at throwing my own pity parties. Complaining (even if the words never come out of my mouth) is a surefire way to place a spotlight on the negative. This is true when it comes to my thoughts about my spouse, my children, or my current situation in life. It's easy to highlight the bad; it's more of a challenge to play Pollyanna and look for the silver lining, but it makes life so much more enjoyable (not just for you, but for those around you). 

Appreciate Accountability
When I was training for my race, I was very intentional about making my goal known? Why? Because if other people knew of my plans, I was less likely to back out and give up. I knew that there were people from all different phases of my life who were following my progress and cheering me on. I posted my runs on Facebook and used neat apps like the Nike Running App to let people know when I was out running. The Nike App generates a "cheer" that you can hear whenever someone likes your run on Facebook. It's ridiculous how much those little cheers from a simulated crowd motivated me when I was on my long runs. 

Even though I ran by myself on Sunday morning, I felt like I was carrying my friends along with me. I could hear their cheers. I know others were praying for me (and for the thunderstorm that threatened to strike in the middle of the race window). 

Accountability is risky because it means exposing your potential failures to others, but in the end it also enables you to reach your full potential. 

Never give up. Never Surrender.
Is it weird to say that I thoroughly enjoyed my half-marathon experience? The training was tedious and tiring, but the race itself was well worth it. It was good for body and soul. It taught me a lot about myself and about faith and perseverance. When I was running it felt like worship.  

The movie Chariots of Fire tells the story of Scottish runner, Eric Liddell (I got to see his Olympic medals when I was studying abroad at the University of Edinburgh). At one point in the movie, Liddell says:

You came to see a race today. To see someone win. It happened to be me. But I want you to do more than just watch a race. I want you to take part in it. I want to compare faith to running in a race. It's hard. It requires concentration of will, energy of soul. You experience elation when the winner breaks the tape - especially if you've got a bet on it. But how long does that last? You go home. Maybe you're dinner's burnt. Maybe you haven't got a job. So who am I to say, "Believe, have faith," in the face of life's realities? I would like to give you something more permanent, but I can only point the way. I have no formula for winning the race. Everyone runs in her own way, or his own way. And where does the power come from, to see the race to its end? From within. Jesus said, "Behold, the Kingdom of God is within you. If with all your hearts, you truly seek me, you shall ever surely find me." If you commit yourself to the love of Christ, then that is how you run a straight race. 

I definitely didn't win the race (I was much closer to last place than to first place), but I finished. Thanks to all who encouraged me along the way. Your words of encouragement kept me running. 

Thanks to my little sister who stood in the cold rain at the finish line.
It was fun. I'm definitely glad I did it. If I can do it (a self-avowed hater of running), trust me, anyone can. 

^"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever." 

1 Corinthians 9:24-25