Persecuted The Global Assault on Christians ~ Book Review

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (March 12, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1400204410
• ISBN-13: 978-1400204410

::From the back of the book::

A woman is caught with a Bible and publicly shot to death. An elderly priest is abducted and never seen again. Three buses full of students and teachers are struck by roadside bombs. These are not casualties of a war. These are Christian believers being persecuted for their faith in the twenty-first century.

   Many Americans do not understand that Christians today are victims in many parts of the world. Even many Western Christians, who worship and pray without fear of violent repercussions, are unaware that so many followers of Christ live under governments and among people who are often openly hostile to their faith. They think martyrdom became a rarity long ago.

   Persecuted refutes these assumptions. This book offers a glimpse at the modern-day life of Christians worldwide, recounting the ongoing attacks that rarely make international headlines.

   As Western Christians pray for the future of Christ's church, it is vital that they understand a large part of the world's Christian believers live in danger. Persecuted gives documented accounts of the persecution of Christians in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and former Soviet nations. It contains vivid stories of men and women who suffer abuse because of their faith in Jesus Christ, and tells of their perseverance and courage. 

   Persecuted is far more than a thorough and moving study of this global pattern of violence--it is a cry for freedom and a call to action.

::My Thoughts::

This is a very well researched book detailing the persecution of Christians around the world. People often take for granted our religious freedom. The fact that we can publicly go to church, wear crosses, carry our bibles, etc. But things aren't so simple underneath it all. Every day Christians are persecuted because of their love for the Lord. 

This is definitely not a book for the faint of heart, the stories and accounts are true. It takes a journalistic approach on going into details and explaining some of the accounts that have happened to Christians all over the world. 

Living in the USA where our religion is sometimes mocked but generally accepted I admit I have taken for granted our freedom of choice. I hadn't realized some of the things that have went on in the world today in fact, and that do go on every single day. 

But don't let me turn you off of this book, even though the circumstances are devastating I admire the courage and perseverance of the Christians that did suffer because of their abuse. The fact that they kept on and did not give up, and we all know God was with them every step of the way. This is a very moving and inspiring book. One I would recommend every Christian to read, particularly if you are freely able to express your faith in Christ.

There are many facts to find in this book that you will find appalling, but will open your eyes.

This book is available in  Paperback   Kindle   Nook   and more...

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Thomas Nelson, in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

The Christian Alphabet

• Hardcover: 80 pages
• Publisher: Love the Dove Publishing (October 17, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0985792809
• ISBN-13: 978-0985792800

::From the back of the book::

Teaching Children about Jesus, Prayer, and the Bible

• Do you know your Christian ABC's?

The Christian Alphabet Book is a unique, visual, and enjoyable way to learn the basics of Christianity. "Love", the dove from above, guides you from A to Z with special Biblical lessons of love for all ages.

• What is more important than a firm foundation of faith?

Similar to learning to read from knowing the regular ABC's, one will be inspired to know, love, and serve God by learning The Christian Alphabet.

• Share the Gospel with your Children

Jesus told Peter, in the gospel of John, to "feed my lambs." The Christian Alphabet Book will help all teachers of children feed their little lamps spiritually. Give those you love this book to help spread the Good News about God's everlasting love and life.

The Christian Alphabet Book is more than just a children's book. It is a book that families can cherish together while sharing its timeless messages that give Glory to God.


::My Thoughts::
This is truly a wonderful book for children. Not only does it help teach ABC's but this book teaches about Jesus, the bible, and prayer.
There are questions, exercises, and tips throughout the book to help your child delve deeper into their Christian faith.
This makes a perfect book for parents, caregivers, Church teachers, etc.
Symbols are provided throughout the entire book to help explain what each symbol means should your child ask you, or if you want to explain to them in easier words.

My children 5 and 2 adored this book. They had plenty of questions to ask throughout, it helped brush up on their ABC's, and helped teach them more about Jesus, prayer, and our Christian faith. They loved "Love" the dove who is on every page with a basic lesson or activity for your child to participate in.
Everything is well laid out in this book according to the letters. Such as if your child wants to talk about Heaven just simply go to the H pages. If your child wants to learn about Prayer simply turn to the P pages.
It's wonderful for reference, study, and reading for fun.
The illustrations are colorful and will hold your child's attention with their vivid details. If your children have any questions about any of the illustrations explanations are found in the back of the book so you can easily give them answers to their questions.
I loved how the book was laid out with everything easy to find, you won't find yourself hunting through page after page to find certain references or answers to your child's question. It's something you can read with them or if they are old enough, that they can study on their own. I would recommend it more for children ages 4+, or for children just learning about Christian faith. This is the perfect book for a child learning about Christianity. My two year old didn't have any trouble staying interested in it and was asking a lot of questions regarding the illustrations. My five year old was more able to comprehend what everything meant and took away a lot more meaning, but it was something that we ALL enjoyed nonetheless.

Our book came with a wonderful CD singing the Christian Alphabet which my children took to immediately and wanted to listen to it over and over again. There are other songs such as Jesus Loves Me, Silent Night, and Amazing Grace. Some of our favorites. They can also be found on the website: www.TheChristianAlphabet.com

This book is available as Hardcover on Amazon as well as http://thechristianalphabet.com/
A big plus is if you visit thechristianalphabet.com you will find other personalized Christian gifts available!




Disclaimer: I was provided a complimentary copy of this book through BookCrash in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Father's Day Ideas for Him (And You)

Today I would like to welcome Michelle Pino to Mommy's Musings. She works at one of New York's finest spa's called Skana in Upstate, NY. A topic of conversation around the spa has been Father's Day gift ideas, and with Father's Day fast approaching she is sharing those ideas with us! I know I'm going to use a couple of those ideas myself. The best thing is these aren't just ideas to include dad, but to include mom too!

Father's Day Ideas for Him (And You)

Father's Day is a great time to celebrate dad. Many popular Father's Day ideas include fishing, cooking out, picnics, days at the park, or ballpark. These ideas are great and sure to bring a smile to dad's appreciative face, but after so many Father's Days, they get a little tired out. No matter what you choose to do for this special day, dad will probably have a better time if mom is involved. The following are some ideas for both mom and dad to celebrate Father's Day.

Try That New Restaurant

There's a highly reviewed, swanky, new restaurant in town that you can't convince hubby to take you to. Maybe it's because he doesn't want to pay the exorbitant amounts or maybe he's a bit too forgetful to make the required month-in-advance reservations. No matter what his excuse is, now is your chance to try it out. Make reservations ahead of time and surprise him with an all-expenses-paid gourmet meal for two.

Get Fit Together

The winter can be a tough time for both men and women. No bathing suits, football-food season, big bulky clothes all make it very easy to forget about those ripped abs or teeny bikini that you wanted this summer. Father's Day is the perfect time of year to kick off your summer hard body. Sign yourself up for a dual gym membership or a 6-week Shred Program. You'll be the hottest wife with the hottest husband on the beach this year. (Bonus: Many gyms offer a discount if purchasing more than one class or membership).

Vacation for a Day

Many resorts offer day passes so you are able to get a vacation for an affordable price without much time commitment. While your husband is winning the big bucks on the poker tables you can be enjoying yourself by the pool or at the spa. Many modern resorts will cater to couple's individualized needs. Break up your day with activities you both love to do and meet back up in the evening for a romantic dinner.

Father-Son, Mommy-Self Time

Purchasing go-kart or batting cage tickets for your hubby and son is a great way to also purchase yourself some alone time. While they are out of the house, you can get some much-needed me-time. The activities don't have to last the whole day, so you are able to send them out for fun and also have time for family fun.

When you choose what you are going to do for Father's Day, make sure it is all about dad having fun.  It's easy to get carried away with yourself during activities that are fun for everyone, just be sure that dad is having the greatest time possible on his day.

Fast Max

Phew, what a crazy week. School got out in our area on Tuesday so we spent the day celebrating. We went to Burger King per our new kindergartner's request, and then we went to the local fair which happened to be in town. We had a great family day albeit extremely hectic.
Suddenly me and the kids started coming down with a sore throat and just felt like crud. Luckily the kids went to bed easy with no fuss, so I was able to lay down while I hoped for the best the following day.
No go though, when I woke up I couldn't talk at all. I had the usual: cough, sore throat, itchy watery eyes, and even ran a bit of a fever. I took Dayquil but it just wasn't helping me at all. To make matters a bit more hectic I was babysitting so it was like a day in the circus. Imagine watching 3 kids ages 5 and under while you can't talk other than a few hoarse notes here and there. And two of them were sick with mostly the same symptoms so it was filled with children's mucinex, allergy medicine, and tylenol per pediatrician's orders. They were grumpy. LOL
The children's mucinex works well for my kids so I was curious as to some of their adult products.
I did finally get the chance to do some research later Wednesday and find this:

It had good reviews and I really needed something. I felt like my chest was going to explode at any moment from coughing, and I just wanted to breathe through my nose. Hubby bought some and I was able to take it right before bed. Thursday when I woke up my cough had broken up more and my voice was almost all the way back.
Luckily today I am feeling a ton better and I'm more than ready to get back into our daily routines.
The kids are feeling much better also which means less grumpiness. And we are all going insane being indoors right as school lets out. So I have some family plans to make next week and awesome one so we can finally start enjoying the summer. Maybe it will help ease some of that sibling rivalry that's been going around here the past couple of days. Let me tell you it's not been pretty. They have even taken to fighting over the exact same things.
Anyway I have some great reviews I've been waiting to publish on here coming your way this week.
And I have some pictures I'll share from some of our adventures from this past week.
Right now I better go and start preparing dinner. Time waits for no one.
I wish you all a great evening, and happy weekend.

Mommy's Crazy Life

Sorry for my absence last week. I should really just change the name of my blog from Mommy's Musings to Mommy's Crazy Life. LOL

Did you all have a good memorial day? It poured rain here but we still had a pretty nice day. Hubby had to work so we went to my mom's house for dinner. She made her famous homemade fried chicken, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, and grilled corn on the cob. The rest of the day we decorated outdoors in between all the rain and played with the kiddos. I am just so thankful for all the men and women out there who have/and do fight for our freedom each and every day. Without them our lives here wouldn't even be possible.

Hubby got some bad news from his work that there would be a significant amount of layoffs and cutbacks. Luckily he is only one of four others that weren't affected by this. Half of the other's got their hours cut but work more days in a week, and the other half have been laid off indefinitely. It's all very stressful. He has been with his company for over 8 years now so he is in no hurry to leave, the instability of it all just has us a bit on edge.

Also I have been winding down getting excited for the end of this school year. My son only goes to school for 4 more days but we recently found out there has been a change for next year. A couple schools are only announced for being positively affected, but the others I'm thinking will follow suit. Rather than have K-5 in our schools they are trying to push for 1-5 and one whole building for just K. Which doesn't bode well considering the building they want to use for Kindergarten is close to ten miles away from us. That just makes me incredibly uncomfortable. If an emergency came about it could take at least a half hour just to get to the school. So needless to say we have been a bit stressed. Our school system has never fully functioned well when it comes to making decisions. Last year they put all the preschooler's in one building, which wasn't really a huge ordeal although we weren't happy about finding out until a couple weeks before school began. Not to mention I had a huge ordeal where they didn't even have him registered.
That's exactly what we are afraid of happening this year. So we now have to take a look at private schools and homeschooling. We aren't sure what route we want to take yet. We aren't even sure if his school will be one of those affected, but we want to be prepared just in case. That way he doesn't have to be thrown behind in the next school year.

Also in the news the boys are getting sick. What a way to end the school year. It could just be allergies for my oldest son, but for my youngest I think he may have a sinus infection. He's got the bright green gooby snot going on, itchy watery eyes, and ultra irritability factor. I'm going to keep an eye on it and run the cool mist humidifier tonight. If he is no better by Thursday I will set a doctor appointment for the same day.

Anyway, I have much coming up in the way of reviews so stay tuned. If your interested on guest posting on my blog or you need something reviewed just send me an email: mommywonderland (at) gmail (dot) com.
I will get to you as soon as I can. :)

Thanks for stopping by.

Good Morning

Good morning everyone! I hope everyone is enjoying a wonderful day today!

It's 8:39am in my neck of the woods, and I'm sitting on my patio enjoying the beautiful day. The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and it smells like fresh rain.
We got some pretty heavy thunderstorms last night, and it was much needed as it cooled things off a bit. Yesterday was just so hot and muggy.
It's been an interesting week so far, but I must admit, I am ready for the weekend to arrive. This weekend my plans are just to relax as much as possible with the kiddos. We finally got to break out our sandals even, which I just love!

I'm hoping to catch up on some blog reading tomorrow. Today is errand and grocery shopping day, and it's sure to be a busy one. To be honest I was a bad mommy and didn't even make out the meal plan for the week. I'm getting ready to do that as soon as I end this post. I have most of the meals planned in my head so that should count for something right?

And I'm hoping to get to my emails finally today. Every time I get online I get called away so I haven't had much of a chance to check on anything. If any of you sent me an email and I haven't replied yet, please don't think me rude. I promise you I will send you one back. I've re-worked my schedule a bit to allow myself at least one hour in the mornings (before the kids wake up) to be online. This should catch me up on everything surely, and I'm looking forward to connecting with all of you again.

I just seen the cutest little bunny. He approached me, but then fled. I'm going to get some veggies to put out for him, and hopefully I can snap a picture to share with you all next time. The cutest little thing. It's amazing the wonders we see early in the morning or when not many people are out.

I'm thinking of starting a Saturday Seven for all of you who may want to join in. On Saturdays we can play catch up with each other and read about one another's weeks. We can either tell seven important things that happened to us this week (or even unimportant things), or tell one thing about each day, etc. I think it will give us all a chance to see what one another has been up to that week, and it could be fun. What do you think? You can let me know via comments or send me an email:
mommywonderland (at) gmail (dot) com.

Look forward to seeing you Saturday! There will be a Mister Linky in the post if you want to link up. :) Wishing you all a wonderful day!

Sincerely,
Tori

Funfetti Jello Poke Cupcakes

So I have been searching Pinterest for a simple, easy to make, few ingredients dessert. Upon my search I rediscovered Jell-O Poke Cake! This was a favorite of mine growing up and I am shamed to say I had forgotten all about it!
Problem #1 is that cakes don't do as well around our house. We are more of a cupcake type of family, they are easier to make, store, etc. So I found more pins where people were making Jell-O Poke Cupcakes. Which brings me to problem #2, I had none of the ingredients on hand for the recipes they were posting...
But the beauty of it? Jell-O Poke Cupcakes are very simple to make, so simple that you can tweak them however you want to. This ends in a perfect for you dessert, or perfect for whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand at the moment. Which is how I came up with...

Funfetti Jell-O Poke Cupcakes
::Ingredients::
1 Box Funfetti Cake Mix
(ingredients required to make the cake - usually eggs, vegetable oil, and water)
1 3oz. box of Jello gelatin (I used berry blue but you can choose your flavor or use multiple ones)
1 cup boiled water
1 container of Funfetti icing (you can also use whipped frosting or cool whip)

 

::Directions::
1) Mix cupcakes according the instructions on the back of the box.

 

2) Spoon cake mix into cupcake pan, and bake as directed...

 

 

3) Allow cupcakes to cool completely...

 

4) Poke holes into the cupcakes using a toothpick or fork. (I just used a fork). Poke plenty of holes in the cupcakes. Make sure you go a little deep so the jello mix can really seep down in there.

 

5) Boil 1 cup water, add entire 3oz box of jello mix, stir until completely dissolved.

 

6) Using a spoon, pour the gelatin over the cupcakes slowly, making sure it seeps into the holes.

7) Once the jello mix is poured over all the cupcakes, it's time to slide them into the fridge. They will need to be refrigerated like this for about 3 hours so the jello can set.

8) After sitting in the fridge for about 3 hours you are safe to pull out your cupcakes and begin icing them, and adding your toppings.

9) If you like your frosting cold you can refrigerate them again if need be, but however you want to do it these cupcakes are now ready to eat and enjoy. :)

These are fun, festive, and really easy to make. They are a fast treat for any sweet tooth. They require few ingredients, and there are so many ways you can tweak Jello Poke Cupcakes (or jello poke cake) to your own liking. Either way just have fun with it, and ENJOY!  :)