Review - My Beloved and My Friend

Book  - My Beloved and My Friend:  How to Be Married to Your Best Friend without Changing Spouses.

Author - Hal and Melanie Young

Publisher - Great Waters Press

Paperback, 250 pages



I have to tell you... the first time I saw the cover of this book, I didn't understand the birds.  After I had an actual copy in my hand and read half of it, I realized it must be an example of "love birds!"

There is something about that saying, "love birds," that make one think of a life-long, happy, relationship.  There is no separating them!

This is really what the Young's book is about - building and maintaining a strong marriage, even in this modern world!

I love that Hal and Melanie worked together to write this book.  They share personal experiences, memories, observations and lots of research.   As parents of 8 children, and married for almost 30 years, they have plenty of insight into family life and marriage!

The tone of the book is open, friendly, conversational - mixed with some powerful lessons, and incredible insight.

They cover topics such as:

 - Who should be the financial provider in the relationship?

-  Handling severe health problems.

-  Reasons and research for the blessing of children (whether there is one child or many).

- Safeguards for the relationship and strength of the marriage (and family).

- Startling research into how the culture has damaged the vision of a godly marriage.

There is one section, in particular, from the book that was significant.  They discuss painful and exhausting health problems and how they kept their marriage strong through it all.  Yet, a more difficult strain on a marriage was briefly described. It was Melanie's grandparents.  Her grandfather was described as a very difficult man.  His wife remained by his side; and in their old age, their love and devotion to one another is incredibly beautiful!

In this book, you may find controversial portions. You may see things you don't agree with.  Yet, the book will get you thinking! It will work as a tool to help make your own marriage strong.

Please realize - We need books like this, that help strengthen marriage! We need them desperately!


This book will be released early next year.  In the meantime, you can pre-order a copy at a special price of $12 (with free shipping), directly from the Youngs.



You are welcome to read more reviews, by other bloggers, at Bow of Bronze.


* Disclosure - I received a copy of this book for review purposes.*





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Giveaway - Rachel Jankovic's new book for Mothers

I have a special giveaway for you today.  There will be two winners.  This is for the latest book by Rachel Jankovic.  She is the daughter of Douglas and Nancy Wilson. She is an excellent writer.  You may have seen some of her blog posts at Femina.


  "Fit To Burst: Abundance, Mayhem, and the Joys of Motherhood," is published by Canon Press. There are 128 pages.  It is a slim but powerful book.

It is a book many mothers need. It is full of serious lectures based on real life at home.  These lectures are really just chapters, but they are Biblical lessons with a serious impact.  This will help the mother at home to straighten up, and get a better understanding of the call of godly mothering.

Rachel's book will take away a lot of guilt, freeing you to enjoy caring for your family.   You will find yourself smiling during her lectures, and nodding your head in agreement.  She has somehow found a way to take common worries and intelligently teach you what is really important.

The Giveaway

To enter for a chance to win a copy of this book, just leave me a comment.



For additional Entries:

1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

3. Choose to "like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

4. Choose to "like" Rachel on Facebook.

*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*

Two random winners we be selected on Friday, October 4, 2013. (U.S.  Entries only.) Each will receive one copy of Rachel's book, "Fit to Burst."  If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected.


-  You must include your email address in your profile, or in your comment, or I can't find you if you win! - Anonymous comments will be void.

Note - This contest is closed. The winners are:  Henna Maria and Laura Lane.
 

*Disclosure - A book was provided to me for review purposes. Books will be sent to the winners directly from the publisher.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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It's A Wonderful Life - by a Sweet Pastor's Wife

For the last several months, I have been reading a book by Terrie Chappell.   She is the wife of  Paul Chappell, who is the Pastor of Lancaster Baptist Church in California.

The church, when they first arrived, was falling apart and in a terrible area. There were only a few congregants.  It now has a membership of over 7,000 people!

Mrs. Chappell is a homemaker and Mother of four grown children.  She is known to be a sweet, meek-hearted lady who loves the Lord. She is a dedicated Pastor's wife and is much loved by those in the congregation.

She was urged to write a book to encourage women.  "It's A Wonderful Life: Serving God Joyfully in Marriage and Ministry" is the result. 

This hardcover book consists of three sections and sixteen chapters. There are 257 pages.

Section One is about our Personal life.  This covers the definition of a godly wife, becoming a godly woman, preparing for ministry, etc.

Section Two is about Family Life.  She talks about balancing the family and the ministry, praying for your husband, developing memories, etc.

Section Three is about Ministry Life.  Here you'll find a wealth of wisdom on challenges in the ministry, hospitality, and being a blessing to your church family.


Terri writes as if she is standing before us, at a Mother's Tea, speaking in a friendly way; making us smile, laugh, and want to take notes!  She mixes her own life stories with beautiful lessons about living a godly life.  

She shares both practical ideas and humble encouragement.   Even though the book has a great amount of help for the wives of pastors, it is also greatly needed for wives of laymen.

Mrs. Chappell writes in a gentle way that makes you feel as if she is a dear friend.  I highly recommend this book to wives!!



For More Information, or to buy a copy:

- Directly from the Publisher:  "Striving Together Publications" - "It's a Wonderful Life."







*Disclaimer - I received a copy of this product for review purposes. This review is my own personal opinion. I would not recommend a book unless I sincerely found it to be beneficial.*



To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.


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Focus on the Family Presents - Les Miserables

Audio CD - Les Miserables

Presented by: Focus on the Family

This 3 CD set has a running time of 169 minutes.

This beautiful story has a setting in 19th century France.  It is based on a classic novel by Victor Hugo (A French writer in the 1800's).  

This audio adaptation is fascinating and a delight to hear.  It was recorded in London and has a professional cast who did an incredible job. 

The main character in the story is Jean Valjean.  He is an ex-convict who cannot ever escape his past.  No matter what he tries to do in life, he seems to be always hunted and accused, because he was once a prisoner.   In the beginning, he meets with a kind couple whose hospitality and compassion help him make a new start in life.  Eventually, he builds up a new reputation, under a new name, and has a tremendous influence for good in his community.  His riches, and charity in life are amazing. But what is most precious, is his unselfish character and actions. 

This is an epic story, highly inspiring and an excellent production.  Listening to the story on audio CD was relaxing and a wonderful break from watching a movie on television.   I highly recommend this radio theater presentation.

*Disclaimer - I received a copy of this product for review purposes.*



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Growing up Ziglar

Book - Growing up Ziglar by Julie Ziglar Norman

Publisher - Guideposts

Paperback, 170 pages

We've all heard of Zig Ziglar, the motivational speaker who has helped change many lives for the good.  His upbeat, positive outlook on life has inspired a nation.  His daughter Julie wrote a book about her life of repeatedly making mistakes and wrong choices.  Despite growing up in such a privileged household, Julie lived a negative, destructive life. I love how she doesn't blame her parents. She knows she made her own choices. She adores her famous father and has been there for him and helped him with his work for her entire life. 

Julie's story will encourage many people for a variety of reasons:

1.   Mothers will see that no matter how hard we work as parents, our children will still make their own decisions. This encourages us tremendously! 

2.  Those who have had a difficult life, like Julie, will be comforted, supported, and find hope in achieving a good future, despite a painful past.  Julie does an incredible job of describing very painful circumstances in her life. These may bring tears to your eyes, like it did to me.  But her guidance and advice through her words, will certainly bring healing to those who are suffering.

3.  Christians looking for God's will in their  life, will find instruction and hope in Julie's story.

4.  One of the most profound messages in this book is that God loves us dearly and accepts us right where we are. Julie discusses how terrible she felt after trying so hard to do right, but kept falling back into sin.  When she finally broke this cycle and understood God's incredible grace, she was able to heal. Because of this, her life began to bear fruit, and be a blessing to others.

5. Those who struggle with a difficult marriage, will be greatly encouraged by Julie's triumphant marriage testimony.

6. The loving Father, Daughter relationship of Julie and Her father is precious!


This Guideposts book would make an excellent addition to any Church library, where congregants could easily borrow a copy. It would also be wonderful for home libraries. I hope that people share copies of this with one another, or buy extra for gifts.  The message is that important!


*Disclosure - I received this book  for review purposes. It is part of a Litfuse blog tour. *

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Cleaning House

Book - Cleaning House: A Mom's Twelve-Month Experiment to Rid Her Home of Youth Entitlement

Author - Kay Wills Wyma

Publisher - Waterbrook Press

Paperback, 278 pages

I was so excited to hear about this book.   Many families, in today's culture, are catering to their kids in a way that is harmful to their work ethic.  This generation is fast becoming the worst "me" generation ever created. Kay has found that a large part of this is caused by we mothers who serve and care for our children, too much; while expecting less and less from them.  Children need to work around the house, learn responsibility, and stop being waited on.  She explains that mothers tend to interfere with a child's need to learn from their own mistakes. Her insights are brilliant and make the reader want to cheer!

I love how Kay struggles with procrastination and inconsistencies.  Yet, she forced herself to do this experiment with her children. This will encourage many readers who have trouble staying on top of things.   The fact is, any effort towards teaching children a healthy work ethic, is better than no effort at all.

In this book, Kay describes the events which led to this radical experiment.  There are 12 chapters which cover 12 specific tasks she expected from her children.  Her sense of humor, mingled with her resolve to get the job done makes this a wonderfully enjoyable read.

Some of the tasks she expected from her children include things like:  Cooking, cleaning bathrooms, laundry, maintenance, hospitality and much more. She tells us how it all went down in her house, and gives us hope for our own homes at the same time.

Kay is the mother of five children, ages 4 to 14.  She is a college graduate, and formerly worked with The White House. She lives in Texas with her husband and children.  Read more from Kay - She writes at The Moat Blog.


*Disclosure - I received this book  for review purposes.*

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Gooseberry Patch Cookbook - Giveaway

Book - Fresh from the Farmstand - Cookbook

Publisher - Gooseberry Patch

Pages - 220, Comb bound


Ever spend time browsing at your local farmer's market? There are all kinds of garden-fresh fruits and vegetables.  Sometimes it can be overwhelming and you might wonder what you can make with such a variety of produce.

Fresh from the Farmstand will give you plenty of ideas for using those fresh garden items!  Inside you'll find 6 sections of recipes. Here is a small sampling:

 - Freshly Gathered Breakfasts

     Peach Oatmeal Pancakes, and Whole-Grain Berry Coffee Cake look delightful!

- Market - Basket Soups and Breads

     Country Chicken and Corn Soup, and Garden Minestrone are hearty comfort foods.

- Garden - Fresh Sides and Salads

     Dilled New Potato Salad, and Sweet Dill Refrigerator Pickles look fun to try.

- Farmstand Feasts

     Hearty Vegetable Pot Pie, and Pasta Primavera Even Kids Like - are a great way to include fresh produce in the family's diet.

- Summer's Best Appetizers

      Lemon Iced Tea, and Island Chiller are cool and sweet drink ideas.

- Berry Best Desserts

     Royal Strawberry Shortcake, and Refreshing Raspberry Cake sound like wonderful afternoon treats.

Each recipe in this collection is sent in by a Gooseberry Patch reader. This creates a fun variety of great cooking ideas.  The book is packed with little quotes, ideas and pretty drawings to encourage the home cook.

One of my favorite recipes in this book is on page 204. It is for "Never-Fail Pie Crust" and makes 12 single crusts!  It looks easy to follow and is carefully explained.  I can just imagine making homemade chicken pot pies, apple pies and lemon meringue pies with this recipe.

The Giveaway:

How would you like to a chance to win your own copy of Fresh from the Farmstand Cookbook?  I have one available to giveaway.

To enter, all you have to do is leave me a comment, telling me your favorite summer - time food.

For additional Entries:

1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Post about this on Twitter.

3. Follow me on Twitter.

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

5. Choose to "Like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

6. Subscribe in an email to The Legacy of Home Blog.

8. Choose to "Like" Gooseberry Patch on Facebook.

9. Follow Gooseberry Patch on Twitter.

*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*

This contest is closed. The winner is A Godly Homemaker

One random winner we be selected on Monday, June 11, 2012. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you. 

*Disclosure - This giveaway is sponsored by Gooseberry Patch. Items were provided by them.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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Review - Courageous DVD

Movie - Courageous- Honor Begins at Home. (From the  Creators of "Fireproof.")

Media type - DVD, 129 Minutes.

Rating - PG - 13 (for "violence and thematic elements.")


This faith based film is outstanding!  Follow the lives of four cops, all fathers, and watch their lives change for the better as they resolve to change the direction of their families. 

Each man has a serious struggle in his life. But they each meet together and learn from Scripture, on what God's wants them to do.

The story line, itself, is thrilling at times, has its heartbreaking moments, and will also teach and inspire viewers to live godly lives.  I am amazed to see such a rare gem that centers specifically on men and their Christian calling. 

I want to share just a few of the things that I appreciated:

1.  A Teenage Daughter learns how to respect her father's wishes in choosing a boyfriend. I have never seen a father show such great care and commitment to her well-being. This clearly shows the modern culture our teens struggle in, and gives us a practical vision of how Dads can protect their children's hearts.

2. The exhaustion of one of the Dads, and his struggle to give up even more of his own time for the sake of his teenage son. 

3. The tremendous faith one of the fathers has in trying to find a way to financially support his wife and children.

I also love the resolutions (promises) each of these men made, in writing.  These are serious guidelines they agreed to follow and live by.

Resources have been created to go along with this movie. These include:

1. Courageous: A Novelby Randy Alcorn.
This book is amazing! It is based on the movie itself, but is an expanded version with additional subplots.  I absolutely loved it!

2. The Resolution for Men and The Resolution for Women.  Both of these books have the written resolutions, along with detailed chapters on each promise. They are designed for study groups or individual use.


*Disclosure - I received these products for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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Review - Don't Panic Cookbook

Book - Don't Panic--Quick, Easy, and Delicious Meals for Your Family

Author - Susie Martinez, Vanda Howell and Bonnie Garcia

Publisher - Revell

Paperback, 250 pages

This cookbook is designed to help busy moms make delicious foods, with little fuss. It is packed with amazing recipes like: "Tender Baked Meatballs;" "Swedish Blender Pancakes;" and "Steakhouse Burritos." 

Many of the foods sound like something you would order in a fancy restaurant.  Yet the ingredients and instructions are simple enough for a mom to prepare at home!

Here is some of what you'll find inside:

1. Small Bites and Appetizers
     My favorite from this selection is "Mashed potatoes in golden Phyllo dough."

2. Breakfast, Breads and Brunch
      The "Orange Cream Smoothies" sound as delightful as the "Cream Cheese Danish."

3. Soups, Salads and Sides
       I love the "Potato Soup Extraordinaire!"

4. Pasta, Pasta
       Homestyle basics like "Four Cheese Baked Ziti" and "Mac and Cheese" would be a hit with my family!

5. Crockpot Collection
        "Succulent Teriyaki Chicken" sounds amazing!

6. Easy Baked Oven Dishes
         "Rosemary Chicken with Shallots and Sweet Potatoes" would make an easy and inviting dinner for guests!

7. Grate Grills and Marinades
          Here's where you'll find "Steakhouse Burritos!"

8. Savory Skillets and Quick Sautes
        "Crispy Chicken Ranch Cutlets or Sandwiches" look fabulous!

9. Desserts Divine
       I made the "Chocolate Buttercream Frosting" and it was so easy to do! It is delicious. 

The book also contains a guide in the back, to help you with measurements and equivalents.  There are a total of 150 recipes!  This cookbook will inspire you to make exciting and easy meals.

*Disclosure - I received this product for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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Review - Gabby's Stick - to - It - Day by Sheila Walsh

Book - Gabby's Stick-to-It Day: A Story About Never Giving Up

Author - Sheila Walsh

Publisher - Tommy Nelson

This hardcover book is beautifully illustrated. It is about a little Girl who can't seem to finish anything. She starts to help her father paint a fence, or wash the family dog, but gives up when it gets too difficult. The story revolves around a "guardian angel" who helps guide the girl to do right. It is funny and amusing and will certainly entertain little girls.  I appreciate the Biblical base for this story and the lesson. 

The angels in the story look like sweet, small children. They also act very precious and child-like. Which is nice, but just be clear that it does not represent a realistic view of Angels in the Bible. 


*Disclosure - I received this product for review purposes.*

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Review - Independence Day by Michael DiMarco

Book - Independence Day: Graduating into a New World of Freedom, Temptation, and Opportunity

Author - Michael DiMarco

Publisher - Revell

Hardcover, 142 Pages.





If you have a teenager graduating from High School, you might want to consider this gift book from Michael DiMarco. He offers advice, Bible verses, and personal stories for the new graduate.

Sections include: Freedom (what young people are seeking), temptation (what we all have to face) and opportunity (the great things that lay ahead.)  He candidly shares how he couldn't wait to move out of his parents house because he wanted the freedom to make his own choices, and not have to follow the house rules. This, of course, is common among many young people.

He has "independent study sections" where readers can think, and answer questions.  The book would appeal most to young men, and their fathers (who might want to chuckle a little at Michael remembering his younger years). It may also appeal to curious mothers who wonder what many young graduates might be thinking.



*Disclosure - I received this product for review purposes.*

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Review - Loving the Little Years

Book - Loving the Little Years: Motherhood in the Trenches


Author - Rachel Jankovic

Publisher - Canonpress

Pages - 102




Author, Rachel Jankovic is a wife and mother of five small children, including 2 year old twins. At the time of publication, her children were all under the age of five!  This book is designed to encourage and help the overwhelmed mother.

It contains 20 short chapters, which are similar to blog posts. Each one is like a devotional or lesson she has learned on different aspects of motherhood. She shares about handling things like difficult behavior in children, and in herself.  She says, "As you deal with your children deal with yourself always and first." (page 14)

She makes it clear that Motherhood is hard work, but shares some ideas that have helped her get through the day.

 Rachel explains that she doesn't claim to know it all. She is just sharing what she is doing right now, while the children are small. I would recommend this book to struggling Mothers who are in despair and are in need of some encouraging humor.

*Disclosure - I received this product for review purposes.*

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Review - Where Wildflowers Bloom

Book - Where Wildflowers Bloom

Author - Ann Shorey

Publisher - Revell

This historical based novel was set during the time period after the Civil War.  Faith, a young adult,  lives with her grandfather.  They operate a mercantile in town.  Faith makes every possible effort to convince her aging grandfather to sell everything and head West to Oregon, which would be a very difficult journey.

There are two gentlemen interested in Faith. These characters are fascinating, and really help describe the way in which people lived in those days.  You can also get a good lesson on whether or not to trust certain people, and not be charmed by their words.

This book clearly shows strong hints of feminism.   I was disturbed by how rude Faith and her friend, Rosemary, were at times to men in the community. But I enjoyed reading about the homes and the items for sale in the shop.

*Disclosure - I receive this book for review purposes.*

Then Sings My Soul Book 3 - Review

Book - Then Sings My Soul Book 3: The Story of Our Songs: Drawing Strength from the Great Hymns of Our Faith

Author - Robert J. Morgan

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Pages - 290

This is such a lovely book! The artistic quality is charming - including a peaceful cover, vintage-style pages, and it is packed with stories and songs and inspiration!


Robert describes the history of music in worship. He explains the beauty of singing the psalms, the stories behind old hymns and their writers, and describes the emergence of new songs by new generations. He really brought to light for me how important the writers of worship song and hymns are to our lives!

Personally I own several hymn books and read and sing from them often. But Robert's book gives me a history behind the music.  He talks about:

- Biblical Hymns
- Ancient Hymns
- Medieval Hymns
- German Hymns
- English Hymns
- Gospel Songs and American Hymns
- Contemporary Praise and Worship Music.

He clearly shows that, through the years, the music has weaved a story of our faith. He traces time- periods and events, like in Martin Luther's day (and his song "A Mighty Fortress is our God"), about what was going on when a song came from that era. 

Here are a couple of examples:

" 'Bringing in the Sheaves' was composed by the 'Singing Evangelist,' Knowles Shaw, who was later to perish in a train wreck in Texas."(page 51)

" Civilla Durfee Martin, an evangelist's wife, wrote "His Eye is On The Sparrow" after she and her husband stayed with an infirmed couple in New York, who told her that the secret of their optimism was remembering that 'His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.' "  (page 51)

You'll also find several of the hymns, with notes, so you can play and sing them yourself.  The stories and descriptions in this book are fascinating and would make an excellent devotional book for family reading time.

*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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Small Space Organizing - Review

Book - Small Space Organizing: A Room-by-Room Guide to Maximizing Your Space

Author - Kathryn Bechen

Publisher - Revell

Pages - 230

Opening this book is like inviting an inspiring designer into your life. Kathryn's wisdom is fascinating. She teaches you how to make the best use of your small home.  She also shares the "romance" of living in a tiny home.

There is more to this book than just organizing. She teaches a lifestyle of living joyful with carefully chosen items around us.  It is the complete opposite of living with too much, or living with clutter.

Chapters include "downsizing," "foyers," "lovely living," "home office heaven," and so much more.

Kathryn is an award winning journalist and an expert on decorating and organizing. This is one very special book you'll want to hang on to!

*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

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7 Money Rules for Life - Review

Book - 7 Money Rules for Life®: How to Take Control of Your Financial Future by Mary Hunt.

Publisher - Revell

Pages - 194

Price - $12.23

Author, Mary Hunt, is well-known for her financial help, from a Christian perspective. In this book, she shares her own story of struggling with a mountain of debt, a problem with spending, and how she climbed out of it all, and got victory.

She also shares the 7 rules that helped her. She wants you to have the knowledge to  manage your money successfully.

Many people have lost their homes by foreclosures and are facing bankruptcy. Lenders have given out risky loans to families who, seeking the American dream, did not have the tools or knowledge to make the right choices.  Mary wants you to know the facts about money.

Chapter topics:

1. "The Cost of Financial Ignorance."
2. "My Story."
3. "Financial Intelligence Will Improve your Life."
4. "Rule 1: Spend Less than you Earn."
5. "Rule 2: Save for the Future."
6.  "Rule 3:  Give some Away."
7. "Rule 4: Anticipate Your Irregular Expenses."
8. "Rule 5: Tell Your Money Where to Go."
9. "Rule 6: Manage your Credit."
10. "Rule 7: Borrow only What you Know you Can Repay."
11. "Getting it all Together."
12. "The Irregular Income Challenge."
13. "Drowning in Debt."
14. "Which Bills to Pay."
15. "An Invitation to Join our debt-free movement."

In "Rule 2" she says, "No matter what your situation - even if you are up to your eyeballs in credit card debt - you must have an emergency fund. Every household needs one. The very foundation of our money management plan is liquid cash, meaning that in 24 to 72 hours you could get your hands on money you have earmarked for specific emergencies."

This is so important! This past year, we had saved a few hundred dollars, specifically for an emergency.  One day, as I was driving home, my car was making terrible noises. I pulled off to the side of the road and it completely died. I had to be somewhere in a few hours, and it was urgent! My mechanic, a friend of the family, rushed to my aid and took care of it in just a couple of hours. I was grateful we had the quick cash to pay him.

Mary also has inspiring quotes at the beginning of each chapter. This one is my favorite:

"Today, there are three kinds of people: the have's, the have-not's, and the have-not-paid-for-what-they-have's." - Earl Wilson.

Overall, this is an excellent book. I plan to send copies to my grown children. A constant stream of financial education is essential for peaceful living.

*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

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Nearing Home by Billy Graham

Book - Nearing Home: Life, Faith, and Finishing Well by Billy Graham

Publisher - Thomas Nelson

Price - 11.65

When I first heard about this new book, by beloved evangelist, Billy Graham, I wanted to own it! I love everything written by this preacher and his family. I own books by his late wife, Ruth, his son Franklin and his daughters Anne and Ruth. Their entire family is inspiring.

But most of all, I was eager to read about 92 year old Billy Graham's experience with old age, and what his life is like since his dear wife, Ruth, passed away.

The book contains glimpses into his own life, memories of his family, and plenty of Biblical lessons for the reader. He talks about the retirement years, struggles with the pain of old age - both physical and emotional (loneliness, depression, feeling useless, etc.). He says he has a walker, wheelchair and cane beside his bed.

If you are young, the book will give you compassion for the elderly and inspire you to want to be more considerate and find ways to encourage them.
If you are middle age, the book will help prepare you for your own life as an elderly person. You will understand what is up ahead, and be guided towards these years by one of the greatest preachers of our time.

If you are at the age of retirement, you will be nodding with knowing smiles, while you read. You will be advised, encouraged, and guided into a more productive life - whether from a wheelchair or a sick bed.  You will find your joy and purpose again!

Overall this is an excellent book.  You will feel as if you are sitting in the author's home, near the fireplace, gleaning wisdom and encouragement. You will walk away refreshed and ready to face life with new vigor, regardless of your circumstances.

*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

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Review - Regret Free Parenting

Book - Regret Free Parenting: Raise Good Kids and Know You're Doing It Right.

Author - Catherine Hickem, Founder of "Intentional Moms."

Publisher - Thomas Nelson.

Price - $15.99


Every mother wonders if they are doing a good enough job. We would all love a step-by-step plan laid out for us to follow.  Catherine, a licensed psychotherapist and mother, offers seven principles to help encourage, teach and inspire us to raise our children without regrets:

Chapter 1 - Why Well - Meaning Moms Raise Insecure Kids.
Chapter 2 - Why Good Kids Don't Feel Good.
Chapter 3 - You Can Live Peacefully in the Teenage Years.
Chapter 4 - Become a Thinking Mom.
Chapter 5 - Respect is Necessary, Happiness is Not.
Chapter 6 - The Difference Between Control and Intention.
Chapter 7 - God's Sense of Humor Begins with Contractions.

Catherine has observed, and counselled, countless mothers and many families.  Her perspective as a Christian is encouraging. Her advice will reassure readers and give them confidence.

In today's society, we are often confused by mixed messages in raising our children. We are struggling with an ever - changing culture, and are being offered a myriad of advice from both the secular world and the Christian world. I appreciate Catherine laying things out clearly for us. Many will sigh in relief as they read her words.

I loved reading the foreword, where she described about her own  mother. In each chapter she tells a story that is personal, or one from a family situation she has observed. She has done a marvelous job explaining each  point.  When times get a little low for me, and I need some encouragement, I will be reaching for this book as a reference.

*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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The Well - Why are so many still thirsty - 3 book giveaway

Book - The Well: Why Are So Many Still Thirsty?

Author - Mark Hall, Pastor and Lead Singer of Casting Crowns.

Publisher - Zondervan.

Price - $14.99

This book consists of 10 intense chapters.  Each one starts with a riveting, real -life story that seriously wakes you up.

The Well, is all about helping lead us to a satisfying and eternal perspective. Mark will show you how to stop living a dry, empty life, and teach you how to find a way to permanently quench your spiritual thirst.

There is a strong message coming through every page, along with a corresponding Biblical example.  Mark shares a little about his own life, somehow easily weaving it through each chapter.

Overall, the book is fascinating and will captivate the reader. It would be perfect for handing out to family and friends.

The Giveaway:

How would you like a chance to win three copies of "The Well?" One winner will receive a total of three copies of this book. You can keep one for yourself and give the rest away as gifts to family and friends.

To enter, all you have to do is leave me a comment.

For additional Entries:

1. Post about this on Facebook.

2. Post about this on Twitter.

3. Follow me on Twitter.

4. Write a post, linking to this giveaway, on your own Blog. (This is worth 3 entries. Please leave 3 separate comments.)

5. Become a Public Follower through Google Friend Connect, or let me know if you are already a follower.

6. Choose to "Like" The Legacy of Home on Facebook.

7. Subscribe in an email to The Legacy of Home Blog.

*Please leave a separate comment for each entry.*

One random winner we be selected on Thursday, December 1, 2011. (U.S.  Entries only.) If I am unable to reach the winner within 48 hours, an alternate winner will be selected. Your entry is only valid if you include a way for me to contact you. 

This contest is closed. The winner is - Heidi

*Disclosure - I received this book for review purposes.*

To find out more about my commercial breaks, please see my disclosure page.

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