Tuesday, November 8, 2011

The Grace Effect: Book Review & Giveaway


Grace. What is Grace? For some, it may be the name of the girl next door, a daughter or girlfriend. For Christians, believers in Christ, you always hear of God's grace but sometimes it may take a while to fully grasp the full meaning of what true "grace" is.

I am currently reading a book and get to give away a copy of this book to one of my readers called "The Grace Effect" by Larry Taunton.

Watch this video as Larry, himself talks about his story.



Here is an excerpt from the publishers on the book:

"Simply defined, the ‘grace effect’ is an observable phenomenon—that life is demonstrably better where authentic Christianity flourishes.”

What does Christianity give us beyond televangelists, potlucks, and bad basketball leagues? Not much, according to the secular Left. The world, they say, would be a better place without it.

Historian and Christian apologist Larry Taunton has spent much of his career refuting just this sort of thinking, but when he encounters Sasha, a golden-haired orphan girl whose life has been shaped by atheistic theorists, he discovers an unlikely champion for the transforming power of grace.

Through the narrative of Sasha’s redemption, we see the false promises of socialism; the soul-destroying influence of unbelief; and how a society cultivates its own demise when it rejects the ultimate source of grace. We see, in short, the kind of world the atheists would give us: a world without Christianity—cold, pitiless, and graceless.

And yet, as Sasha shows us, it is a world that is not beyond the healing power of “the grace effect.” Occasionally infuriating, often amusing, but always inspiring, The Grace Effect will have you cheering for the courageous little girl who shamed the academic elitists of our day."

I am not an expert on grace. I know that I do not deserve the grace of God, but because I believe in Jesus Christ I am given grace unconditionally. I look forward to finishing this book and learning more from little Sasha. I have such a huge heart for this little girl who I already love so much. Her adoption story is so powerful, as with any adoption story, but hers is extra special because of the grace of God. I can't wait to see the transformation that is promised. I also look forward to being able to give one of my readers a copy of this book to read and reflect on. Please be sure to enter the easy Rafflecopter entry form below!

The Grace Effect is now available at Amazon. You can also visit Fixed Point Foundation for more information on upcoming events and messages.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Halloween at Our Nest

At our nest this year, I think we totally rocked the neighborhood with originality...

We had our "Bubble Gum Dispenser" Boy
 
 Our "Pumpkin Fairy" who had magic powers with a shake of her hair!


A totally "Rocking the 80's" Moma with a "Very Supportive" Daddy!


We had a super duper fun Halloween at Our Nest this year! 
The costumes were easy, cheap and fun!


My favorite of course was seeing my kid's ring the doorbells and the expressions on the neighbors faces.

Hope everyone had a wonderful and safe Halloween 2011!!!

Thursday, October 27, 2011

The 4-Crow's Visit the Pumpkin Patch

We finally made our annual visit to the pumpkin patch during Fall Break!
I took lots of pictures. We had lots of FUN!!
Happy Fall Y'all!!!






I used My Memories Suite Digital Software to create these scrapbook pages!
LOVE it!
You can do so much with this software- cards, gift tags, scrapbook pages and more.
I'm still quite the novice at it though!
Visit the link above or the button at the upper right of my page.
Copy this code to save $10! 
STMMMS35260

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Revolution Worship...Live at Joy Church International CD: Review & Giveaway

Revolution Worship (Live), Revolution Worship

I LOVE Christian Worship Music!!! Give me some LIVE Christian Worship Music and I totally get into my worship zone. When given the opportunity to review the new praise and worship album "Revolution Worship Live", I of course jumped!



First of all, who is album by? Featured artists include Mark Mathis, Phil King and Lisa Wright.
“Revolution Worship…Live At Joy Church International”, is a tremendous Praise & Worship album with a powerfully inspiring collection of songs that is unparalleled to any other Praise & Worship series in it’s category. Filled with meaningful lyrics and sincere, personal worship, “Revolution Worship…Live At Joy Church International” masterfully demonstrates authenticity at it’s best. From fiery, electrifying tracks with edgy, rock-driven guitar to peaceful, intimate tracks, this album focuses on pointing attention to God.And because it’s recorded live, you get to experience the congregational feel of being in a vibrant church service. Infusing musical quality with a spiritual impact that raises the bar on what to expect in new Praise & Worship music, “Revolution Worship…Live At Joy Church International” brings you a brand new worship experience. From start to finish, this release is about the act of ministering uncompromisingly God-centered music through pure, heart-felt praise!"

I of course am going to take this review a step further, and recognize the church in which this music was recorded. Joy Church International, you are in my prayers. I agree with you, Christianity is about relationships not religion. Christianity is all about what Jesus Christ has done for us! That is what I love about the teachings and beliefs of my own church, TCABC

My favorite song on this album is "Fill My Cup"! I really got to moving with this one! Also the invitation song "Yes" is unbelievable- I was singing along to it about half way through!

Now, which one of my readers would LOVE to own a copy of this LIVE album for themselves? I get to give one away!!

Ends November 5, 2011! Easy Rafflecopter entry form!!

Revolution Worship...Live at Joy Church International is available at Amazon, iTunes, and LifeWay Christian Stores.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

You will have to click the read more button to get to the entry form!

Friday, October 21, 2011

Winnie the Pooh DVD Giveaway

'If you live to be 100, I hope I live to be 100 minus 1 day, so I never have to live without you.”
- Winnie the Pooh

Is there anyone who can't quote a line from Disney's Winnie the Pooh books or movies?
How would one of my readers like to have for themselves the new theatrical hit Winnie the Pooh movie that comes out on DVD on October 25th?
I wonder just which character will get the most likes? Mine?
Of course, Pooh Bear!

Now what are you waiting for go to the Rafflecopter entry form and enter! EASY!!








Disclosure: All opinions stated are my own and based upon my own personal experience. This giveaway is sponsored by Partners Hub. I will receive no compensation for this post. The giveaway ends at 12:01 AM on October 30, 2011. The winner will be selected through Rafflecopter and will be contacted via email.



Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesdays

It's Wednesday again and guess what Michelle over at The Vintage Apple is now officially a Real Housewife of Texas- Yep, I told her I would give her the RHOT title when she did the deed! 
Congrats Michelle and Mr. Anonymous!!
Now here are some of my pins for the week from Pinterest- and if you are not addicted yet, let me know and I'll get you an invite!

How cute will this be for my little dancer? Too bad I didn't hang on to her first, or second pair of ballet shoes. At least I have #3!

This is for Braden- love this from Notre Dame.


Want to clean your muffin pans before you start your holiday baking? 
Use a dryer sheet. Click on the picture to get the full scoop!


Ha Ha- I know you've done this also, don't deny it!


Yummo! Grasshopper Brownies.
Probably another decadent dessert I have pinned that I will never buy the ingredients to make.


This is my verse for the week.
 My bestie found it first on Pinterest, and we both have been carrying it as our shield this week.



And everyone has officially 9 shopping days until my birthday! My bestie has plans for me tonight.
Something to do with Mexican food followed with a little modern version of 'Cuttin Loose.
I am so excited!!!




Happy Pinning everyone and don't forget to link up with The Vintage Apple this week for Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesday!

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Learning the Bible...

Kaybrie is learning so much this year in Pre-K! I love her teacher Mr. Cody House, he is so good with the students. One thing that I really love is how excited she is to learn her Bible verses each week, there have been a few weeks that she had not received a sticker and that is my fault- bad Moma!
Here she is saying The Lord's Prayer- love it! 
(Yes, I know its not exactly correct, but remember she is four and Jesus said, "Let the little children come unto me.")


My friend Shanna's daughter Harleigh, who I used to babysit, is also learning her Bible verses. I had Shanna send me the format they are using at her school and will soon be teaching this to Kaybrie and Braden. 
(I think it might even help me a bit)
I love this and thought I would share it with my readers as well. Let me know if any of you choose to use it or have seen this before. 


What other tools do you use to teach your children the Bible?

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

The Crafty Crow Strikes Again...

This time I made a birthday gift for one of my students.
She turned the big O-N-E!
I love my babies!
So what do you get a one year old these days. A doll? A puzzle? Books?
Oh no...this little girl need a Crafty Crow Original!
I am a think ahead kind of person so I thought outside the box and created a "Christmas" birthday gift!
What do you think?


It's all made with ribbon, thread & Liquid Stitch! Easy!
For the bow on top, my friend Sheila suggested the color yellow- it just made the tree pop!
BTW, I am doing better on my bows, I even ventured out and made a matching hair bow!
Now I have to get Kaybrie's made! Oh and her pumpkin shirt made also...

photo.JPG
The matching hair bow



Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Today's Post...

...is at The RHOK!

I am sharing the poem "Phenomenal Woman" by Maya Angelou.



Won't you go RHOK with me/Mrs. Hart today and see what I have to say?

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Oh, How Pinteresting Wednesdays



It's only 2 more days until Michelle's wedding at The Vintage Apple- go link up with her today for her meme and tell her congrats!!!






Only 22 more shopping days blog friends...



And so I'm feeling crafty...don't be surprised to see a few Crafty Crow Projects popping up....






I think I found "THE" gift for the women in the family this year!
Do you like?



Really? Why didn't anyone tell me this before? Baking Soda and Peroxide.



Will be making. Soon.  Pepperoni Pizza Puffs.





Amen. 
Enough said.
 I sure hope I am not guilty of this, and if I am, SORRY!




Have a great week everyone! 
Happy Pinning and if you aren't on Pinterest yet- Holla & be sure to Follow!

Friday, September 30, 2011

Sock Curls: Moma Crow's Secret Recipe for Success

Getting "Sock Curls" is the easiest thing ever! 
Just gather all of your little girls or your (if you are doing your hair) "mismatched" socks- ha ha I think mismatched socks are the secret ingredient! Wash hair. If you want it for the next day blow dry til damp. Put gel on it-I use Biolage, then take about 2" sections all over the hair, roll under to the root at the center of the sock and knot the sock but not too tight and only one time. Then take the hair dryer to set the curl and then sleep on it. The next morning just take out and shake upside down, do not comb or pick out! Spray and style! 
Big and Sexy Spray & Play is my hairspray of choice! 
You can also do the hair wet but it will take a day to dry completely! Also be very careful while curling the ends of the hair and make sure that you don't crimp it. Keep it flat so it will curl nicely. I always hated when my hair would crimp on sponge rollers. 
If you have any questions, just ask! 
Also if you try this, please share pictures with me.







Thursday, September 29, 2011

Today's Post...

is at The RHOK!

I am telling you about how to now read frugally from your electronic devices such as your Kindle, iPhone, iPod, iPad etc. This follows an announcement from OverDrive and Amazon last week! 
What are you waiting for? Get on over there and read!
The 4-Crow's are very excited about this one.