Book Review: Clinton St Baking Company

Clinton St. Baking Company Cookbook: Breakfast, Brunch and Beyond from New York's Favorite Neighborhood Restaurant
By DeDe Lahman, Neil Kleinberg
Little, Brown and Co, 2010
English, 224 pgs


Description:
The Clinton St. Baking Company is one of the hottest brunch spots in a city obsessed with brunch. A tiny thirty-two-seat eatery on Manhattan's trendy Lower East Side, the restaurant draws long lines of customers who come from far and wide to sample fresh-baked goods, hearty omelets, sugar-cured bacon, and light-as-air pancakes with maple butter.

In the Clinton St. Baking Company Cookbook, owners DeDe Lahman and Neil Kleinberg share more than 100 treasured recipes that have made their restaurant a sensation. Learn the secret to their house-made buttermilk biscuits and tomato jam, irresistible muffins and scones, delicious soups and sandwiches, and their decadent, eye-catching desserts. Helpful techniques, like Neil's
patented omelet "flip and tuck," and gorgeous color photographs throughout will have readers cooking like pros in no time, and sharing the delicious results.

Review:
I cannot believe how much I already love this cookbook! I have never baked from scratch even once in all my 30something years! I jumped at the chance to learn though! I love that the intro chapter is titled "Love and Butter"...I knew I was in for something special. My son sat next to me as I looked through to pick recipes to test and if we had taken his lead, we'd still be cooking and baking! I decided to stick to the baking chapters but there are also chapters on soups, eggs, sandwiches and fried chicken. There is also a particularly mouthwatering section on desserts with some thigh enlarging cookies!

I tried first the buttermilk biscuits:

This would have been infinitely easier with a mixer and biscuit cutter. That being said, they were light and crumbly. I am so going to try to make these with garlic and cheese, they were very familiar....

Next, I tried the Blueberry muffins. Again, not sure I'd be able to do it...

The consensus was that I'm no longer allowed to buy bagged or boxed mixes! These were so good. They tasted real. The berries were frozen and burst so nicely into the mix as they baked. I took some to church and even Mr. I-don't-eat-sugar loved them! I decided to not use the crumb topping since I wasn't sure how to mix it correctly and didn't want big gobs of sugar on top!

The kiddo liked them too:

The final (for now) attempt was for the greatest thing ever invented: peanut butter cookies. Again, I'd never made them from scratch by myself. They were so easy to make. My son loved pressing the fork in to them. Actually, we used all the forks in the drawer because he kept licking it after each cookie! Took them to church too and they disappeared so fast!

I'm not at all kidding or exaggerating when I say that I really love this cookbook. I love that there are little tidbits of cool "also" knowledge on each page. I love that it was written by someone with a sense of humor. The photography is beautiful and Clinton St. Baking Co. is on my "must see" list for if I ever get to go to New York!

I received a copy of the book for review purposes. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.

Book Review: The Church Awakening

The Church Awakening: An Urgent Call for Renewal
By Charles R Swindoll
FaithWords, 2010
English, 304 pgs

Description:
In THE CHURCH AWAKENING, Charles Swindoll discusses the challenges, struggles, and priorities of the church in the twenty-first century. He reveals the problems inherent in the entertainment-based postmodern church and shows how a return to biblical teaching will restore its strength and impact. Now being replaced by a feel-good message instead of what Christians need to know to stand strong in a world that's lost its way--Swindoll exposes the problems of--and solutions for--the postmodern evangelical church. Just as he opened readers' eyes with his bold statements in The Grace Awakening, now he offers a straightforward volume revealing how to reestablish a life-altering church with Christ as Lord and Master. Illuminating and empowering, THE CHURCH AWAKENING will ignite a revolution in the way Christians "do church" for years to come.


Charles Swindoll has devoted over four decades to two passions: an unwavering commitment to the practical communication and application of God's Word, and an untiring devotion to seeing lives transformed by God's grace. Chuck graduated magna cum laude from Dallas Theological Seminary and has since been honored with four doctorates. For his teaching on Insight for Living, he has received the Program of the Year award and the Hall of Fame award from the National Religious Broadcasters as well as multiple book awards. He and his wife of over half a century, Cynthia, live in Texas. You can find out more about Chuck at www.insight.org.

Review:
I neither loved nor hated this book. I did have a hard time getting through it. It took longer than average for me to read it because it felt very much like reading for a class or something. The points are excellent and I can't fault anything that is said. I do agree a lot with the idea that the church is for teaching, not entertainment. There's nothing wrong with having a good time at a service, but that shouldn't be the main focus.


I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.

Weekend Coupon Preview

You can see this week's coupon list HERE.



Looks like a good week, I'll personally get at least 3 papers!

Book Review: I Lift Up My Soul

I Lift Up My Soul: Devotions to Start Your Day With God
By Charles F. Stanley
Thomas Nelson, 2010
English, 384 pgs


Description:
365 devotions that lead straight to the throne of God.
The sun rises, the day begins, and everything the world needs from you stands waiting at the door. In the midst of it all, the whisper of God invites you to do the most important thing of any day-be with Him.
In this 365-day devotional, I Lift Up My Soul, best-selling author and pastor Dr. Charles Stanley leads you straight to the Father with words of encouragement and insight drawn from the Word of God. Each day, you will be inspired to lift up your soul and gain a Bible-centered perspective.

Review:
I don't think I've ever read anything from Dr. Stanley that I haven't found uplifting and encouraging. This book is no different. Obviously, I did not read every page as this is meant to last a year. Today's, for instance, is about using Scripture for your prayers. Some may say this is a "greatest hits" since the material is pulled from his previous books, but I haven't read all of his books and even if I did, it's never too often to hear Scripture and to read devotions. I could read this book over and over for years and I know I'd still pull meaningful lessons each day.

I received this book from BookSneeze in exchange for an honest review. No additional compensation has been received.

Book Review: The Strategically Small Church

The Strategically Small Church: Intimate, Nimble, Authentic, Effective
By Brandon O'Brien
Bethany House, 2010
English, 210 pgs


Description:
Brandon O'Brien helps pastors and church leaders understand that a smaller church is sometimes better than a big one. He demonstrates the strengths of small congregations, including that today's church "shoppers" want services that are local, personal, and intimate. Also, small churches provide space to nurture close relationships across age and lifestyle barriers, and they facilitate a higher level of commitment from laypeople. And small church budgets are often more effective because of greater efficiency. The Strategically Small Church will encourage small-church pastors in their ministries and challenge them to play to their strengths.

My Review:
We work at a small church, so I was really interested in seeing what this book was going to say. I appreciate that the book isn't focused on "getting bigger" but more about how to use what you have.  The only negative I have about the book is that it was a little like a text book in that it was a little difficult to read for a long time. It's a great resource though.

I received a copy of the book from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.

Book Tour: Somewhere Along the Way

Somewhere Along the Way

By Jodi Thomas

Berkley, 2010

English, 368 pgs.

Description:

Second in the trilogy that's captured America's heart.

Ever since she claimed Harmony, Texas, as her home, eighteen-year-old Reagan Truman finds herself drawn to other who have made their way here. Shaped by the loneliness she's known most of her life, Reagan has finally found a place she belongs-and doesn't want anything to get in her way. But when her life is put in jeopardy and the whole town comes together to save her, she'll discover that learning to trust the love that's come into our hearts is the greatest gift of all. 

Message From Jodi:

Hello from Texas.  I’m happy to stop by and visit with everyone this morning.  After twenty years as a writer, this is my 30^th novel and what I believe shows my best writing.  A few years ago I began a series about a small town I set in Texas.  Harmony is the kind of place we all think would be a nice place to live.

 

The people of Harmony will warm your heart and I hope they’ll be so real you send them a Christmas card.

 

My story begins with Reagan, a runaway who found her home in Harmony two years ago.  An old man took her in as his niece and gave her the first home she ever had.  The story opens with her working a shift in the town’s diner for a friend.  The last thing she has to do is take a take-out out the back door to the town hermit.  He speaks to her and as the weeks pass they form a friendship.

 

Gabe Leary wants nothing but to be left alone.  After five years of living on his land he’s managed to earn a living as a graphic artist without speaking to anyone in town.  He’s shattered from the war and sees himself as a man without friends.  About the time he’s comfortable with his life, he meets Liz.

 

With a mixture of characters you’ll fall in love with and a treat that gets everyone involved, I think you’ll love this story.

 

In SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY you’ll follow the people of Harmony as they go about their lives helping one another.  When crisis comes they stand together.  I think you’ll laugh as you get to know my people and care all the way to your heart about them when they are in trouble.

 

Come along with me on this journey back to Harmony.

Jodi Thomas is the NY Times and USA Today best-selling author of 31 novels and 8 short story collec-tions. As of July 2006, she was the 11th woman to be inducted in to RWA Hall of Fame. She is also currently serving as the Writer in Residence at West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Texas. 

For more information about Jodi's extensive library of work go to her website. 

To watch the YouTube promo for the book, click HERE.

My Review:

I was so happy to be asked to join this tour since I really enjoyed the last book. I thought this one was just as engaging and hard-to-put-down as the first. There were a few points in the story where I had to look over to the next page because I just didn't want to wait to see what happened! I found myself getting entirely engrossed in the story and even rooting for the characters. I found myself thinking of people I used to know (or know now) who remind me of the characters. There were a few places I had to re-read because I was reading so fast I missed a detail and wasn't sure what was happening! So, take your time when you read it. It's worth every second! I can't wait for what I hope is going to happen in the third novel (go Noah!). I really hope that some of the minor characters (Claire, Tyler) are more engaged in the next story as well.

 

Available from Amazon on November 2.

I received an advance copy of the novel, courtesy of Jodi Thomas. No additional compensation has been provided and I was not required to write a positive review. Thank you to Ms. Thomas for allowing my to return to a world that I'm really enjoying!

We Have a Winner!

Random.org has chosen comment #12 as the winner of the CSN Gift Code!

meeyeehere said...

We pull out a long table for our party buffets we occasionally have

The winner's information has been emailed to CSN and they will send out the prize!

Weekly Coupon Preview

The coupon list for this weekend is available HERE. Looks like both a good SmartSource and a good RedPlum this weekend! Don't forget, different areas get different coupons and sometimes different values on the coupons.

Let the Hunt Begin!

You have your sorting system set up, but it’s empty. So, where can you get coupons?

Of course, your Sunday papers will have them. I suggest you pick up not only your local paper, but major metro papers as well. Sometimes the values on the coupons are different based on region. Some papers get coupons that others don’t.  I pick up no less than 5 papers on a good insert week!

Sign up for loyalty programs. Store cards are one way to receive discounts, but you can also get coupons directly from the companies you use. Huggies, Gerber, Proctor and Gamble and Kellogg’s have spectacular loyalty programs. They have Internet printable coupons as well as sampling programs (which come with coupons in most cases) and will mail coupons directly to your home.  Check anything you love for a website with coupons.

Write directly to companies to ask for coupons. This has mixed results. I’ve received replies ranging from “we don’t send coupons” to multiple coupons for FREE items from companies. If you love something, let the company know. If you have a bad experience with a product, let them know. They’re usually generous to those who are kind and honest.

Check websites that are dedicated solely to coupons. Some of the sites I find most useful are coupons.com, smartsource.com, and redplum.com. There are also coupons available on CVS.com, Walgreens.com and HEB.com. Many websites will allow you to print coupons two times. You may have to download a printer driver to make sure the bar codes print clearly. (Just a warning, I have trouble getting SmartSource coupons to scan at Wal-Mart and HEB.) BettyCrocker.com tends to have good coupons too.

Load e-coupons onto loyalty cards. Check store sites, such as Kroger.com and Brookshires.com, to load e-coupons onto your card. These are useful if you don’t want to spend time clipping and sorting. Just load them onto your card (after you register it) and print a shopping list. Once your card is scanned at the register, the coupons will automatically deduct as your items are scanned. Sites to check for e-coupons are cellfire.com and shortcuts.com but for our area, these only work at Kroger.

The best place recently for coupons has been Facebook. It’s simple to sign up and companies have been offering coupons and samples from their pages with increasing frequency.

My final source is magazines. All You, only sold at Wal-Mart, is full of coupons every month. You’ll save way more than you spend on it. Subscribe for the best price.

Check my site: faithfulfinances.blogspot.com. I update often with new deals, coupons and samples that I’ve found. Every Friday, I put up a link that sends you to a list of the coupons for the coming weekend.

Now that you’ve got your coupons all organized, how do you use them to your best advantage? Well, check back for more!

(Re-print of my column in today's local paper where I live.)

We Have a Winner!

Random.org has chosen comment # 21 as the winner of the Lawry's prize package from My Blog Spark!

Congrats to:

Jen said...

we love spicy here so I guess we are Self-Assured Adventurers. although it doesn't really describe me lol

Jen has been emailed and has 48 hours to respond with her address or a new winner will be chosen!

Book Review: The Family Dinner (CLOSED)

The Family Dinner: Great Ways to Connect with Your Kids, One Meal at a Time
By Laurie David, Kirstin Uhrenholdt
Grand Central Life & Style (November 3, 2010)
English, 256 pgs.

Description:
The producer of An Inconvenient Truth, Laurie David's new mission is to help America's overwhelmed families sit down to a Family Dinner, and she provides all the reasons, recipes and fun tools to do so.

Laurie David speaks from her own experience confronting the challenges of raising two teenage girls. Today's parents have lots to deal with and technology is making their job harder than ever. Research has proven that everything we worry about as parents--from drugs to alcohol, promiscuity, to obesity, academic achievement and just good old nutrition--can all be improved by the simple act of eating and talking together around the table.

Laurie has written a practical, inspirational, fun (and, of course, green) guide to the most important hour in any parent's day. Chock-full chapters include: Over seventy-five kid approved fantastic recipes; tips on teaching green values; conversation starters; games to play to help even the shyest family member become engaged; ways to express gratitude; the family dinner after divorce (hint: keep eating together) and much more. Filled with moving memories and advice from the country's experts and teachers, this book will get everyone away from electronic screens and back to the dinner table.


My Review:
I have mixed feelings about this book. We're not to the stage yet where it's seen as an option to not eat at the table together. My sons aren't in sports or school yet (one isn't even out of the highchair yet!) so we're not facing the "time crunch" that she discusses.

I do think it's asking a lot of a mom who works either in or out of the home to "set the table" every night. There are good manners tips (oh, we need some with a 4 year old...) and there is a really great pantry stocking section.

There are tips for quick meals and how kids can help with the cooking. I think a lot of the recipes sound good, but almost all of them have at least one thing in them I have to avoid because of an allergy! Bummer! I am looking forward to the NoodlePanPie though...kinda like a pie with spaghetti as the "crust". I'll have to take that idea and adapt it to our family though!

It seemed strange to me when I got to the "green" chapter and the "divorce" chapter. Those just seemed strange to me to be included.

The little tid-bits from famous people were cool to read. The games and conversation starters were interesting too.

Thanks to Anna at Hachette, I'm able to give away a copy of this book to one of my readers!

Entry Methods:

All entries MUST have your email in them. If a winning comment does not have an email, a new winner will be chosen.

First, and mandatory, entry: Simply tell me you want the book! (1 Entry)

Other entries (leave a separate comment for each), please notice that some entries have changed:
1 entry - Become a public follower of my blog. The link is on the right hand side of the page. If you're already a follower, leave a comment letting me know.
2 entries - Blog about this giveaway, with a link back to the giveaway (leave a link in your comment so I can verify)
1 entry - Subscribe to my blog by email (link is just under the followers) or let me know if you already subscribe.
1 entry - Become a Facebook fan of Faithful Finances or let me know if you're already a fan.
1 entry: Place my button on your site (You must leave a link so I can verify)

Giveaway Rules: Please be sure you read these before 

you start posting comments. 

Giveaway open to residents of the US and Canada only. You will have to provide a physical address, not a PO Box, per Hachette's rules. Winner will be chosen, with the True Random Number Generator (Random.org), Tuesday, November 2 at 10 PM CST. Winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. All entries MUST have your email in them. To keep Spam Bots from snagging you, put your address like this: name(at)server(dot)com

I received a copy of the book for review purposes. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review. Thank you to Anna from Hachette for including me in the giveaway!

Book Review: 5 ingredient Fix

5 Ingredient Fix
By Claire Robinson
Grand Central Life and Style, 2010
English, 240 pgs.


Description:
Claire Robinson, the hot new Food Network star of 5 Ingredient Fix and Food Network Challenge, helps people get dinner on the table with little fuss and a few great ingredients.

The quest for simple, affordable, and fresh, mouthwatering food is over. 5 INGREDIENT FIX helps put delicious and sophisticated meals on the table in a snap. With people struggling to simplify, streamline, and budget, the Food Network's Claire Robinson is here to help. Cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be impressive; simplifying the process with fewer ingredients saves time, frustration, and ultimately, money. From breakfast treats like Brioche French Toast with Strawberries and Cream to no-fuss meals like Grown-up Grilled Cheese and Iceberg Wedges with Buttermilk Dressing to a romantic dinner of Grilled Scallops with Saffron Aioli and Green Goddess Rice, all of Robinson's recipes have five or fewer ingredients. A quick trip to the supermarket for one bag of groceries, and a delicious, restaurant-quality meal can be on the table in no time.

My Review:
Yum.

Okay, in all seriousness, yum.

It takes a true genius to come up with Baked Ricotta with Stewed Cherries and make it okay to eat for breakfast! It was seriously just like cheesecake. I love this...

I'm not a huge fan of Claire Robinson's show (I get annoyed easily by cooking show hosts) but I love her philosophy and style. She's French school trained, yet makes things so simple!

The Buttermilk Pecan Chicken was so easy and delish! It's now on my monthly rotation of meals to cook. I cheated a bit though and used a jarred sauce for the noodles which go with it (and added broccoli since I felt we needed a veg with dinner). But oh...I'm enjoying this book. There are little snippets on each page of "What makes this recipe really sing" and "What to toss in if you have it" that are nuggets of information from the author and it's really a great cook book. I'm looking forward to making more recipes from it in the weeks to come!

I received a copy of the book from Hachette Book Group in return for an honest review. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.

Book Review: Really Wooly Bible Stories

Really Woolly Bible Stories
By Bonnie Rickner Jensen
Thomas Nelson, 2010
English, 36 pgs


Description:
Favorite Bible stories presented with the beloved Really Woolly art style help little children discover that God is faithful and true and that Jesus, The Good Shepherd, loves them.
This case-bound padded board book from the Really Woolly® brand by DaySpring® makes it easy to share important stories from God's Word with little children, while teaching them about God's shepherd-like love for them. Bible stories include Creation, Noah, Abraham, Moses, the Ten Commandments, Joseph, Samson, Daniel, David and Goliath, Jonah, Jesus' Birth, Jesus Loves the Little Children, Jesus Feeds 5,000, Jesus the Good Smaraitan, Jesus Walks on Water, Jesus' Death & Resurrection, The Great Commission. Little ones will love the charming Really Woolly® illustrations.

My Review:
I requested this book simply because I have a 4 year old and an almost one year old and we're intent on teaching them to read the Bible. There are 17 stories (Creation, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, The Ten Commandments, David and Goliath, Daniel, Jonah, Jesus is Born, etc.) and they are told in easy to remember rhymes. The pictures are sweet and age appropriate. I'm really excited to hear my son recite them back to me! I recommend this for children from newborns to about 5. It's a board book so it's going to hold up well to wear.

I received a copy of the book from BookSneeze in exchange for an honest review. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.

review: KT Tunstall - Tiger Suit

Tiger Suit
KT Tunstall
Virgin Records, 2010


Description:
Tiger Suit marks KT's third studio album and heralds the beginning of a new musical adventure for the multi-platinum Scottish-born singer and songwriter. Organic instrumentation is blended with dance-friendly textures, the results of which she has dubbed "Nature Techno" to encapsulate the album's collision of raw, upfront rootsiness and sleek electronic textures.

Released on October 5th, the album's rollicking first single, "Fade Like a Shadow" is already a Top 20 hit with radio.

KT's previous hit songs include - the Grammy-nominated "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree," "Suddenly I See," Other Side of the World" or "Hold On".

You can visit KT's site HERE. You can follow her on Twitter HERE.  You can "like" her on Facebook HERE. You can but the album from Amazon HERE.

My Review:
To prepare, I listened to "Suddenly I See" (one my favorite songs!)...can't keep still with this one!

We caught her performing on a British show (can't remember what it was...Graham Norton?) where there were performers all around a stage and the host just walked around during the show and they played. She won me over that day! She was playing all by herself with her guitar and equipment and it seemed like there was a whole band. She's amazing!

(Note: I'm listening as I write this...)

1. Uummannaq Song (3.36) - starts out sounding kinda "exotic"... kicks in nicely...my son is flying an airplane to it, so it's made his approval...her voice is amazing as usual. The beat is catchy and the background vocals are cool too! Neat ending.

2. Glamour Puss (3.19) - woah...catchy beat...good dance rhythm...lyrics kinda okay...her voice is raspy and whiney at the same time...nice bridge. Wish the synth was louder in the mix. It sounds cool but it's kinda low in some points.

3. Push That Knot Away (3.46) - nice slow opening...oh, this is reminding me of something...good beat progressing...liking the lyrics (had to pull them out to read), they have a nice message (I'm sure she's meaning it as something else, but am I finding a Christian message here?)...nice breakdown...channels Green Day or something...yeah!

4. Difficulty (4.58) - there's the synth...my son is loving it...it's pretty bare but great...her voice on this one is reminding me of Pink...song seems kinda long, but it never gets boring...

5. Fade Like a Shadow (3.26) - oh, I've heard this on the radio...I didn't know it was her before, it reminds me of Stevie Nicks a bit, she's got a nice fast trill to her voice...catchy dance worthy.

6. Lost (4.41) - The opening is very much like Stevie...it's a beautiful ballad that grows with each verse and repeat of the chorus...it builds and becomes kinda rocking...great story in the song...ends with a haunting quality...feels too long though, I ended up skipping about the last half minute or so.

7. Golden Frames (3.45) - KT is really embracing the synth on this album...sounds like she's covering a Doors song or something...dark and moody...the male background vocal was unexpected...I can hear this one on a Grey's Anatomy soundtrack. About 30 seconds too long.

8. Come On, Get In (3.45) - Hello Joan Jett...oh come on...it's Black Horse all over again...I guess an artist can re-do their own rhythms whenever they want, but it's really similar. Reminds me of an 80's cheerleader hit.

9. (Still a) Weirdo (3.40) - cool synth beatbox opening...upbeat ballad...not my favorite on the album. Strange and melodic, but not my style.

10. Madame Trudeaux (3.18) - fun opening, have high hopes...her vocals are overprocessed and the rhythm reminds me of Marilyn Manson's "Beautiful People". Nice guitars though.

11. The Entertainer (4.45) - ballady, my least favorite of the album, although the different levels of instruments are a nice touch they are all at the same level and nothing really stands out musically.

Overall impressions: I'm quite happy with this. It will be my "go-to" for solo drives for a while! She's made a masterful transition in style and I can imagine this would translate well into a live show. I'm reading a lot of hope into her lyrics. I think it's cool how much of the music she does herself.

I received a copy of the album from the One to One Network in exchange for promotion through a review. No additional compensation has been received and I was only required to be honest. All opinions are my own.

Starbucks Samples

Go HERE to play a game to win a 4-pack of Starbucks VIA samples! Site registration is required. One per household.

Book Review: Transforming Church in Rural America

Transforming Church in Rural America
By Shannon O'Dell
New Leaf Press, 2010
English, 200 pages


Description:
Small church buildings dotting the countryside are home to ministries that often struggle with limited attendance, no money, and little expectation that change can revitalize their future. In Transforming Church in Rural America, Pastor Shannon O'Dell shares a powerful vision of relevance, possibility, and excellence for these small churches, or for any ministry that is stuck in a rural state of mind. The book reveals: how to generate growth through transformed lives; ways to create active evangelism in your community; no-cost solutions for staffing challenges, enhancing the worship experience, and inspiring volunteers. Focusing on vision, attitude, leadership, and innovation, you can learn the practical strategies and biblical guidance that helped to grow a church of 31 into a multi-campus church of several thousand, with a national and global outreach. Discover effective structure and ways to cast God-given vision so others can follow and make an impact. Experience the blueprint for transforming into effective, dynamic, and thriving churches - no matter where the location or how small it may be.

My Review:
I want to start off by saying: I am a pastor's wife. We serve a "small rural church". However, if you look at statistics across the nation, we serve a "normal, average sized church" in a small community.

Some of the points in the book are valid. A "small" church does have to grow in order to not disappear over the years. That's just a basic fact of life. Your members are going to pass away. I haven't met one person yet who isn't going to die someday.

That being said, I was put off by the tone at the beginning of the book. I understand that the author is telling how his ideas were changed, but he comes across as really down on rural American small churches. The stories he tells about his first months/years in the church however are not un-common. Everyone has their favorite pew.

To me, it sounds like the author was disappointed to be called to a small church and then proceeded to try to change it into the large church he was initially wanting. The statement "I was also learning - valuable lessons, learning what they never tell you about rural ministry: ...and I was never told that, as a rural pastor, I was going to be hated" makes me sad. It makes me sad that the description of his former congregants is that hateful. It makes me sad that so much church history was demolished over a few pews.

I do like the 5 keys to ministry in a small church: Vision, Attitude, Leadership, Understanding and Enduring Excellence. I also like that he addresses these in not only the church setting, but in the life and home of the pastor.

All in all, it's a worth-while read for a pastor and other leaders of "small" churches. There is so much that can be gleaned from the pages.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review from BookSneeze. No additional compensation was received and I was only required to write an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Book Review: Within My Heart

Within My Heart
By Tamera Alexander
Bethany House, 2010
English, 384 pgs.


Description:
Widow Rachel Boyd struggles to keep her ranch afloat and provide for her two young sons, though some days it feels as though her efforts are sabotaged at every turn. When her cattle come down with disease and her sons' lives are endangered, she must turn to Rand Brookston, Timber Ridge's physician and reluctant veterinarian. While Rachel appreciates his help, she squelches any feelings she might have for Rand--her own father was a doctor and his patients always took priority over his family. Rachel refuses to repeat the mistakes her mother made. But when she's courted by a wealthy client of the local resort, she faces a choice: self-sufficiency and security or the risk inherent in the deepest of loves.

My Review:
This was a really engaging and refreshing read. I love the theme of overcoming fears as well as the "you're not what I thought you were" aspect. It's by no means surprising, you can guess what's going to happen. It was strange to have references to characters problems from the other books in the series. But that kinda makes me want to read the other books in the series! I wonder about what they're talking about!

A copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for a review. No additional compensation was received and I was not required to write a positive review.

We have a Winner!

Random.org has chosen comment #54 as the winner in the Little One Books giveaway!

trixx said...

I'd pick the Count with Dora! book for my daughter. She loves Dora!

October 10, 2010 8:27 PM 

 

  CONGRATS!

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You can sign up HERE for 3 free issues of Redbook magazine. I get my magazines all for free. You've seen how many I get...most of them come from this site. Hurry, these go fast!

Then go HERE for free Muscle & Fitness!

CSN Giveaway! (CLOSED)

Well, we're almost moved in. Only taken 4 months...but we're still dealing with the wide open space in our living room. On the one hand, it's great for play time. On the other hand...we have no spaces for setting drinks or something when people come to visit. I'm thinking something different will be best. I'm really looking to get a set of nesting tables. I had thought about a coffee table, but I can't get the image of a kid falling into it out of my head. I think a set of tables will be easy to move out of the way when we want to "rassle" with the boys, but will be super handy when we need them.

The good thing is...the CSN Stores have so many choices we're sure to find what we're looking for. They ship quickly and are really a great site to work with. They even have loads of items which ship for free!

The good folks at CSN are offering one of my readers a $35 gift code. This can be used on anything on any of their sites!

Entry Methods:

All entries MUST have your email in them.

First, and mandatory, entry: Tell me what kind of tables you have for entertaining. (1 Entry)




Other entries (leave a separate comment for each), please notice that some entries have changed:
2 entries - "Like" CSN on Facebook (great place to learn about specials!)
2 entries - Follow CSN on Twitter
2 entries - Subscribe to the CSN Blog (you'll want to check this out for specials!)
1 entry - Become a public follower of my blog. The link is on the right hand side of the page. If you're already a follower, leave a comment letting me know.
5 entries - Blog about this giveaway, with a link back to the giveaway (leave a link in your comment so I can verify)
1 entry - Subscribe to my blog by email (link is just under the followers) or let me know if you already subscribe.
1 entry - Become a Facebook fan of Faithful Finances or let me know if you're already a fan.
2 entries: Place my button on your site (You must leave a link so I can verify) 

Giveaway Rules: Please be sure you read these before 

you start posting comments. 

Giveaway open to residents of the US and Canada only. Winner will be chosen, with the True Random Number Generator (Random.org), Friday, October 22 at 10 PM CST. Winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. The code will be emailed to the winner directly from CSN. All entries MUST have your email in them. To keep Spam Bots from snagging you, put your address like this: name(at)server(dot)com

I have received no compensation for this giveaway. Prize is awarded as a $35 credit code to CSNStores.com and will be emailed to the winner from them. Winner is responsible for ordering the prize. Winner may choose to use credit code toward another item on the site. Winner will be responsible for any charges over $35.

Weekend Coupon Preview

The link for the coupon preview is HERE! We're expecting a SmartSource, a Redplum and a Proctor and Gamble! It's a multiple paper weekend!

Book Review: Becoming a Woman of Faith

Becoming a Woman of Faith
By Cynthia Heald
NavPress, 2009
English, 112 pgs.


Description:
In this inspiring topical Bible study for women, Navigator author and best-selling Bible teacher Cynthia Heald offers a much more realistic perspective for today’s Christian woman.

You'll see yourself in Cynthia's personal struggles to walk in faith and trust, and you will learn and grow from her special insights on character and maturity from God’s Word. Develop a life of worship, surrender, and patience as you deepen your relationship with God and become more like Jesus.

Does it mean never doubting or questioning God? Having your act together at all times? Is it being a legendary “prayer warrior” or knowing the right Bible verse for any situation?

In this inspiring Bible study, best-selling Bible teacher Cynthia Heald offers a much more realistic perspective for today’s Christian woman. You'll see yourself in Cynthia's personal struggles to walk in faith and trust, and you will learn and grow from her special insights from God’s Word.

“My study of this topic has changed me, renewed me, and encouraged me to keep growing in my faith and to keep walking by faith,” Cynthia states. In these pages, she shares the results of her study with the sincere prayer that you, too, will be changed, renewed, and encouraged in your walk with God. 

My Review:
This is a study meant to be done over 11 weeks (or sessions) and it's really well written and organized. There is lots of space to write answers and I like that the format encourages the reader to discover the Biblical truths for themselves. It it not "deep" but it's not a superficial study either. I think it would be great for a woman's Sunday School class or for personal use.

I received a copy of the book in exchange for a review from NavPress. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.

Book Review: City on Our Knees

City on Our Knees
By Toby Mac
Bethany House, 2010
English, 224 pgs.

Product Description

Bestselling recording artist TobyMac has a passion for inspiring believers to step out and take action for their faith. Through compelling stories and Scripture, City on Our Knees will illustrate how Christians past and present have set aside differences, come together in unity, and stepped forward in action and prayer. Readers will be encouraged and inspired to do the same, summoning the commitment, courage, and devotion to bring a city to its knees.

About the Author

TobyMac is a Grammy Award-winning artist, producer, and song- writer. First known as part of the popular group dc Talk throughout the 1990s, he launched a solo career in 2001 and has since won numerous awards, earned three certified gold albums, and had six No. 1 Christian singles. His previous books include Jesus Freaks (with dc Talk) and Under God (with Michael Tait and WallBuilders). TobyMac is married with five children and makes his home near Nashville, Tennessee.

My Review
Yet another book which has been recently telling me that I need to be more involved. I think God's telling me something. Almost everything lately has been about compassion, helping others or orphans. The stories in the book are great. They're not so long that you can't read a few in one seating. It took me only 2 days to read the whole book. There are so many stories and each one is linked to Scripture. I can see this being a good devotional or a great gift book.

I was provided with a copy of the book in return for a review. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.

 

Review and Giveaway: Lawry's Seasonings (CLOSED)

(CLOSED)

I'm not a good cook. I try though. I like to try new recipes and I like to change up our menus. I have to keep searching for things that fit into our dietary pickiness (allergies, dislikes...4 year old...). I jumped at the chance to test a bunch of Lawry's products, courtesy of My Blog Spark.

My package included 2 marinades, 4 seasoning packets, 1 bottle of seasoned salt, a Pyrex glass baking dish (with lid) and skewers. (I had a photo and I CANNOT find it...arg...).

The first dish I made was chicken marinated in the Tuscan Sun-Dried Tomato marinade which includes extra virgin olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, sweet red bell peppers and the perfect blend of herbs. I kinda burned it though. It still tasted good. I think this would be a great flavor to put on top of a salad!

The second attempt was with the Chimichurri Burrito Casserole seasoning packet – Lawry’s gives the familiar Burrito casserole a new twist with this traditional Latin American sauce. With a few simple fresh ingredients, mealtime just got a lot more exciting. It was SOOOO good! I used beef and black beans. I still can't place where the flavor of the sauce was taking me, but I will use this again!

Next up was the Asian Style Beef & Broccoli seasoning packet – This easy to prepare stir fry meal will remind your family of their favorite Asian restaurant. The dish combines beef, broccoli and seasonings with a hint of garlic. Serve it over rice and you have a complete, satisfying meal. It really was easy, but a bit too spicy for my taste. The rest of the family loved it. I added carrots to it and it was just really better than what we pick up from the Chinese restaurant.

The final attempt was with the Mediterranean Sundried Tomato & Garlic Chicken seasoning packet– Add a taste of the Mediterranean to your family’s casserole. This easy to bake casserole combines chicken, pasta, tomatoes and Feta cheese to easily make a flavorful meal any night of the week. Again, this was super simple to make. I was concerned about the penne getting cooked since it goes into the oven dry, but it came out perfect. The recipe calls for black olives, but since I dispise the little things, I left them out. I also changed the cheese from feta to mozzarella. (Sorry about the photo, I remembered to take it about two bites into the meal...)

Also included in my pack were:

Szechuan Sweet & Sour BBQ marinade which gives meat a delicious sweet and sour flavor with a touch of Szechuan heat (one main ingredient is pineapple...allergy for husband).

and

Tuscan Style Chicken Marsala with Garlic and Basil seasoning packet– Chicken Marsala is a restaurant favorite, but it might not make the menu at home. This effortless version comes together on your stovetop with just a few fresh ingredients. Flavorful garlic and basil gives this meal its own Tuscan flair, perfect for serving over pasta or rice. (Just haven't had a chance...it calls for mushrooms...ick...)



A recent Lawry’s survey found that your choice of flavor says more about you than you think. The nationwide poll looked at preferences for tart, spicy, sweet, and savory flavors and found that your choice can reveal some interesting aspects of your personality.

What’s your flavor?

Joyous Joiners - Tart Flavors
If you are one for tart flavors, you tend to be extremely happy overall, particularly with your family, finances, work/life balance and even your health. As a Joyous Joiners you are an extrovert who loves to entertain at home, find it very important to join in social events in your community and are active on the greatest number of social networking sites.

Self-Assured Adventurers - Spicy Flavors
If your preference is for spicy flavors, consider yourself a confident, adventurous individual with a passion for travel and cooking. You are the biggest risk taker and although impulsive, you are not reckless – as a Self-Assured Adventurer you also tend to be resourceful, analytical, and most able to “look at the big picture.”

The Sweet Lifers - Sweet Flavors
As a Sweet Lifer, home and family are close to your heart. You are the kindest and most loyal, although you probably wouldn’t admit that as you are also the most modest. As an individual that prefers sweeter flavors (honey and fruit-infused), you are influenced by your parents, enjoy family entertainment, and consider yourself spiritual.

The Conventionalists - Savory Flavors
Your passion for savory flavors shows you have an enthusiasm for politics, enjoy camping and hiking and love outdoor barbeques and American cuisine. Along with the other Conventionalists, you tend to be more introverted than the rest of the groups and often describe yourself as a homebody.

Lawry’s has something for you no matter what your flavor is!

The good people at My Blog Spark are going to give one of my readers the same goodie box that I received!

Entry Methods:

All entries MUST have your email in them.

First, and mandatory, entry: Tell me what your flavor is! (1 Entry)


Other entries (leave a separate comment for each), please notice that some entries have changed:
1 entry - Become a public follower of my blog. The link is on the right hand side of the page. If you're already a follower, leave a comment letting me know.
5 entries - Blog about this giveaway, with a link back to the giveaway (leave a link in your comment so I can verify)
1 entry - Subscribe to my blog by email (link is just under the followers) or let me know if you already subscribe.
1 entry - Become a Facebook fan of Faithful Finances or let me know if you're already a fan.
2 entries -  Place my button on your site (You must leave a link so I can verify) 

Giveaway Rules: Please be sure you read these before 

you start posting comments. 

Giveaway open to residents of the US and Canada only. You will have to provide a physical address, not a PO Box. Winner will be chosen, with the True Random Number Generator (Random.org), Friday, October 22 at 10 PM CST. Winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. All entries MUST have your email in them. To keep Spam Bots from snagging you, put your address like this: name(at)server(dot)com

I received product in exchange for this review. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review. Product was supplied by Lawry's, through My Blog Spark.

Book Review: In Every Heartbeat

In Every Heartbeat
By Kim Vogel Sawyer
Bethany House, 2010
English, 352 pgs


Book Description:
Three best friends, three cherished dreams, three searching hearts... As three friends who grew up in the same orphanage head off to college together, they each harbor a special plan for the future. Libby Conley hopes to become a famous journalist. Pete Leidig believes God has called him to study to become a minister. And Bennett Martin plans to pledge a fraternity, find a place to belong, and have as much fun as possible. But as tensions rise around the world on the brink of World War I, the friends' differing aspirations and opinions begin to divide them, as well. When Libby makes a shocking discovery about Pete's family, will it drive a final wedge between the friends or bond them in ways they never anticipated?

My Review:
I did have a hard time getting into the story, but once I did, I really enjoyed this book. The story isn't too far-fetched and the characters are lovably flawed. I love that the main characters are to woven together as a family and that they come to realize their places. I really can't find anything to fault in the story-telling. It's a good read.

I was provided with a copy of the book in return for a review. No additional compensation has been received and I was not required to write a positive review.