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Nicole

Old Testament Handbook Review & Giveaway

Thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the below-reviewed product for this review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Throughout my lifetime, there have been many occasions I’ve studied the Old Testament of the Christian Bible. This can be, obviously, a challenging task, both in terms of time and interest. So, when allowed to review the Old Testament Handbook, I could not think of a better time of year to consider the roots of my faith in the coming months ahead.

The Old Testament Handbook features a reader-friendly text of the Christian Standard Bible. Showcasing both the Bible’s original meaning, its original Torah teachings, and new, easy-to-follow, engaging scripture designed to highlight thought and individual Biblical responsibility. Allowing readers to quickly immerse themselves in the Old Testament Handbook, with its elegant, full-color Biblically-minded handbook styling that provides readers with a robust summary of conceptualized charts, maps, Biblical studies, illustrations, and summarized teachings. Something every member of the family can use as a daily Biblical reading, too.

Constructed with high-quality cloth covering and a double-sticked binding, the Old Testament Handbook is
designed to last a lifetime. The companion resource necessary for modern Biblical study for ongoing discipleship at home.

Plus, the text, beyond its durable, easily-cleanable, cloth binding and covering, can lay flat- a true necessity for late nights of Biblically study at home. The book is both elegant and sturdy in design. Including, a rich fabric ribbon marker perfect for easy referencing, teaching, gifting, or sharing. A gift that will bring meaning to its recipients for decades to come.

Making the Old Testament Handbook both a true companion for your personal bible studies and library, as well as the ultimate holiday gift for those looking to gift your nearest and dearest this holiday season-you’ll want to purchase your copy of the Old Testament Handbook this Christmas, too. For those looking to gift this book, please click here.

Moreover, you can also enter for a chance to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card between today, and 12/2/23. Be sure to click here, to enter! Friends, I now want to ask, what would you most want to research in your copy of the Old Testament Handbook? Please leave your comments below.

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Navigating Life’s Rocky Roads: Your Guide To Simpler, Healthier Living

So, you’ve hit a bit of a snag in life’s journey, huh? Well, join the club! We’ve all been there – stuck in the mud, feeling like we’re on an episode of “Survivor,” except the prize isn’t a million dollars, but just getting through the day without screaming into a pillow. Now, let’s talk about turning those lemons life threw at you into some top-notch lemonade (or lemon meringue pie if that’s what tickles your fancy). Here are some tips to navigate those tough times.

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Find Your Inner Zen with ‘Gardening Therapy’

Ever tried talking to plants? It’s surprisingly therapeutic! Gardening isn’t just about growing veggies or flowers; it’s about nurturing something from the ground up. It’s like building a Lego set without instructions, exciting and a bit frustrating, but oh-so rewarding when you see the first sprout!

Adopt A Quirky Hobby

Ever heard of underwater basket weaving? Okay, maybe that’s a bit too out there, but why not try something offbeat like salsa dancing in your living room or learning to play the ukulele? Quirky hobbies are like secret ingredients in a recipe – they add an unexpected but delightful flavor to life. Plus, they’re great conversation starters and can turn a dull day into an unforgettable story!

Plan A ‘Staycation’ Mystery Adventure

Who says you need to travel far for an adventure? Turn your living space into a mystery destination. Have a Moroccan night with themed food and décor, or camp in your backyard. It’s about breaking the monotony with a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of imagination.

Embrace ‘Wabi-Sabi’ In Your Daily Life

‘Wabi-Sabi’ is a Japanese concept that finds beauty in imperfection. Celebrate the little imperfections in your life. That chipped mug? It’s got character. Your slightly overcooked dinner? Call it ‘crispy cuisine’. Life’s too short to sweat the small stuff. Embracing this mindset can turn everyday frustrations into moments of personal growth and self-acceptance.

Turn Worrying News Into A Learning Journey

If life throws a curveball like a worrying medical diagnosis, remember, it’s a chapter, not the whole story. Just like people going through intravascular lithotripsy treatment face a challenging condition but come out stronger, use this as a chance to learn, grow, and maybe even advocate for others. It’s about finding strength in vulnerability.

Create Your Own ‘Happy News’ Bulletin

Let’s face it, the news can be a downer. So why not create your own ‘Happy News’ bulletin? Fill it with good news from your friends, uplifting stories, or achievements (like finally figuring out how to fold a fitted sheet!). This custom news feed can be a daily reminder of the joy and positivity existing in the world, often hidden beneath the headlines.

So, as you navigate these challenging times, remember, it’s not about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance in the rain (or at least making a decent rain dance out of it). Keep your chin up, your spirit high, and your heart open. Life’s a wild ride, but with these unique twists, you’ll be cruising through it with a bit more flair and more laughs.

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Futureproof Your Health For a Happier, Longer Life!

Looking after ourselves and making good choices is important. Not only does it impact us in the here and now but it affects how happy and healthy you are in the future, too. None of us want to live our later years in a state of poor health, so read on to find out what you can do to make positive changes, 

Strong Bones

Building strong bones early in life is crucial for long-term health. When we’re young, our bodies accumulate bone mass, peaking around age 30. This “bone bank” becomes vital later in life as we naturally lose more bone mass than we gain. Strong bones established during youth act as a buffer against age-related declines in bone density, reducing the risk of fractures and conditions like osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, strength training, and a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D support optimal bone development. Encouraging healthy habits early on like staying active and maintaining a balanced diet lays the foundation for resilient bone health. By investing in strong bones during youth, individuals set themselves up for a more active, independent, and fracture-resistant future as they age.

Healthy Organs

Hydration is so important for your organs. Drinking plenty of water supports optimal kidney and liver function since it facilitates flushing out toxins. Make a habit of reaching for that glass of water throughout the day. Supporting your organs extends to dietary choices. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients for robust organ health. Ensure your meals include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This diversity not only nourishes your organs but also contributes to your overall well-being. Limiting processed foods can lighten the load on your organs, promoting long-term health. It doesn’t mean you need to be perfect or give up everything you like, just maintain some balance and eat as much good food as you can, keeping less healthy options for a treat. 

Hormonal Balance

Hormone balance is really for overall well-being. Regular exercise is a powerful tool for regulating hormone levels. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. This can be as simple as a brisk walk or a fun dance session. Prioritize quality sleep – 7 to 9 hours each night as poor sleep can disrupt hormonal balance, potentially affecting various aspects of your health. For men, if you notice signs like fatigue, low libido, or mood changes, it’s essential to seek help- Male Excel can help with this. Hormonal imbalances, including low testosterone, can be addressed with professional guidance. Healthcare providers can conduct tests and recommend interventions, which may involve lifestyle changes or specific therapies. Stress is such a common companion in our daily lives, and also plays a role in hormonal equilibrium. Chronic stress can impact various hormonal pathways in your body, so combat it with activities like meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness.

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Surprised by Oxford Movie Review & Giveaway

Many thanks to Evolve Studios for providing a sample of the following for review. My opinions are 100% my own.

Irish poet and playwright W.B. Yeats once said, “How many loved your moments of glad grace, And loved your beauty with love false or true; But one man loved the pilgrim soul in you, And loved the sorrows of your changing face.” with Yeats’ romantic spinning may sound that of a different time. As our present world ever-fixates on present the repetitive nature of swipes, emoticons, and the frenetic blurring of notifications. Creating within many the need for simpler norms, making this season the perfect cinematic release of Ryan Whitaker’s sophomore directorial feature, Surprised by Oxford.

Based on a true story, adapted from Carolyn Weber’s memoir of the same name, Surprised by Oxford follows Caro Drake (Rose Reid), an intellectual, yet lovingly sophomoric American student, who is granted a scholarship to the prestigious Oxford University, endeavoring to make peace of her turbulent childhood, while pushing forward in obtaining her post-graduate career in English literature-specifically, Romanticism. Our story’s heroine balances an insatiable desire for knowledge and discovery of reason.

Soon after arriving at the fictional Tirian College, our story’s heroine befriends both Hannah (Emma Naomi) and Linnea (Jordan Alexandra), while pretentiously tutoring academics as young people often do. While sharing with viewers the true dichotomy of the story. The blending of a young woman’s need for understanding and love. This moment comes by way of the story’s heartthrob, Kent (Ruairí O’Connor), a talented local student who provides the film’s necessary romantic push-and-pull dichotomy, which Reid offers in a relaxed, meet-cute presence. A necessity for any 90s-style film, like this.

The film’s main theme, attraction-between these two young lovers, and pf knowledge, and discovery itself, serves to anchor the film’s playfulness and dilemmas-bending ideals in one. With a clever blend of skepticism and self-discovery, for both Christian zealot, Kent, and that of the heart of the woman he adores, the film’s protagonist, Caro. Who, over time comes to reeducate Kent over the obstacles of romance, spirituality, and the ways of a woman’s heart. It’s in Whitaker’s navigation of said polarities that Surprised by Oxford, allows viewers to examine within the film’s emotional resonance-its holiday-esque feel-good rhetoric. The Evangelical considerations that sit snuggly between awe-inspiring autumnal and sno-ladden cityscapes- scenes as intrinsic to the plot’s theme, as the theme itself.

Overall, the film’s aesthetic design graces viewers with the coziest of self-discoveries. Something everyone seeing the film can take away from. That of the familiarity of modern-day agitations with that of familiar and romantic ingenuity and meet-cute scenarios.

All chaptered around to the school’s three annual terms — Michaelmas, Hilary, and Trinity. That which is filmed among the architectural spacing of Oxford’s prestigious surroundings. Everything from pubs, centuries-old classrooms, and period libraries and bookstores. Sharing the true loves of Caro’s life, and the film, the winding streets of Oxford, and young women strolling about, with noses buried in books.

Surprised by Oxford’s classicist style and bibliophile beauty is the sucrose mix of Hogwarts and Hallmark you need in your life this season. This film is one you’ll want to see Suprised by Oxford from the comfort of your own home. Rent or buy today. Buy or rent Surprised by Oxford this November! Having seen this movie several times, I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I have. Friends, be sure to check out the trailer, below.

Overall, this film, with its equal parts heroinism and that of holiday loveliness, is one to get excited over. This is why I’m excited to share that one Theladyprefers2save.com reader will have the awesome opportunity to view the Suprised by Oxford film yourself-United States winners only at this time, please. Plus, entering is as simple as leaving a comment on this post letting me know why you’d most want to see this film this season. Good luck!

Check out Suprised by Oxford online:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Pinterest | TikTok

Also, find other film reviews I’m loving this season, here. Now, do you want to see Suprised by Oxford? Leave your thoughts below.

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Journey to Bethlehem Movie Review & Ticket Giveaway

Many thanks to AFFIRM Films, Inc. for providing a sample of the product for this review. My opinions are 100% my own.

With all the merriment the holiday season encapsulates comes the need to hear the true story of the Christian holiday season. Making it a natural choice for families to view the upcoming film, “Journey to Bethlehem.” The birth story of Jesus Christ is set to a family-friendly holiday musical—a heartwarming production of the true story of the Nativity set in a new and captivating way.

The story features Joseph, played by Milo Mannheim, from Disney’s “Zombies”, Mary, played by Fiona Paloma, King Herod played by Antonio Banderas, the angel played by Christian rapper, Lecrae, and Joel Smallbone as King Herod’s son.

With rich musical melodies that are as snazzy as they are jazzy, this film is perfect for young children and the young at heart. Featuring thoughtful songs that are as timeless as they are thought-provoking. Drawing considerable parallels between the classic Judeian Nativity with that of the modern world. Plus, well-executed choreography and an excellent blend of timely speeches help spin the gaps between each of the film’s musical numbers.

The Journey to Bethlehem Movie is approximately 2 hours in length, is rated PG for its given content, and features a musical score by Matt Sallee and Kevin Olusola from the musical group, “Pentatonic.” Set in picturesque Spain, this film is also beautiful in design. Giving audiences a true musical experience, not simply a documentary set to music. Full of dance and pop music, this production features something for every member of the family. Perfect for believers and non-believers throughout the season including a wonderful soundtrack is available for listening to on Spotify and Apple Music platforms, here, too.

This is a great movie inspired by the true word of God. It is a film that is sure to touch all viewers- young and old alike. A well-made Christmas movie musical for the entire family. And in our current social and economic climate, this is a story the world needs now. A film that will bring inspiration, joy, and hope to the currently dark world.

“Journey to Bethlehem” offers families the awesome opportunity to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas while watching the birth of the Savior on the big screen in the jazziest of ways. A film that is sure to leave you feeling inspired. Sharing with audiences the true meaning of Christmas- the deep joy and hope that comes from this story. Having seen this movie several times, I’m sure my readers will love it as much as I have. Friends, get your tickets here and check out the trailer below!

Overall, this is a musical to get excited over. This is why I’m excited to share that one Theladyprefers2save.com reader will have the awesome opportunity to view the Journey to Bethlehem film themselves. Plus, entering is as simple as leaving a comment on this post letting me know why you’d most want to see this film in theatres this season. Good luck, all!

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Tips for enhancing your garden

When it comes to the summer months, your garden will quickly become the focal point of your home. When the sun shines, there is nothing better than getting the BBQ out and hosting your friends and family members as part of a garden party. 

But before this, you want to ensure your garden looks and feels presentable. You want to get your landscape equipment out and prepare the lawn as well as enhance your garden with cool new gadgets, furniture, and equipment. You could install a cocktail bar as well as new decking, lighting is key to a stylish garden as well as ensuring all your paintwork is up to standards (during the winter months, fencing and sheds often get damaged). 

Below we look into three ways to enhance your garden. 

Consider Your Furniture 

When enhancing your garden, the furniture that features in your backyard plays a big part – when was the last time you bought new chairs? Do you need any new statement pieces of furniture? Take a moment to access your garden chairs and decide whether you need to replace them. You may want to consider adding new pieces of furniture, such as a cocktail bar. You can buy some really cool outside cocktail bars at affordable prices, alternatively, you could give making your own a go. When hosting guests, what better way to impress them than upgrading your cocktail game and serving them during a BBQ?

Consider Your Lighting 

Lighting has a big impact on many things when it comes to interior design. It can enhance your bedroom, add another dynamic to your kitchen as well as make improvements to your garden. Lighting can highlight key parts of your garden, such as a pond or a featured area. It can also be used to create pathways and light up your plant beds. A major benefit of adding lighting is that it’s very affordable and can easily be done. If you need some inspiration, Pinterest is a great place to look as well as Instagram. 

Ensure your paintwork is up to scratch 

During the winter months, your garden can get damaged by the rain and wind. Often you will find the paintwork on your shed and fences has faded, or looks scratched up, making your backyard look scrappy. When the sun starts shining, give yourself a day to go over your fences and shed and repaint them. When repainting, this gives you a chance to change colors if you fancy something new – bear in mind when changing colors, this is often more expensive as more paint is required. 

We hope our guide on tips for enhancing your garden has given you some insight into ways to improve your backyard before the summer months. Do you have any tips that you think we should include in our guide? Which of the above tips did you find most useful? Is there anything you would like to share that will benefit our readers? Let us know in the comment box below. 

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Fighting For The Soul Of Your Child Review & Giveaway

A special thanks to XO Publishing for providing a sample of the product, Fighting for the Soul of Your Child, for this review. As always, all opinions stated are 100% my own and this post may contain affiliate links that I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you.

As a global citizen and mother, I’m often on a mission to find new ways to help young children, my own and others, to be their best selves and be positive members of society. Instilling in youth, that young minds may be blessed and influenced by good behaviors, a strong work ethic, a steadfast moral compass, and the ability to offer kindness to themselves and others. This, for me, includes praying for their souls as empathetic members of society, global and otherwise. As a Christian, my top priority is to share the love of God with others-especially our communal village of children.

If this, too, sounds like your personal brand of kingdom aid, then you’ll want to pick up a copy of “Fighting For the Soul of Your Child,” today. Which, you can use code MIN25 for 25% off your book purchase at the XO Store. It is a must-read for every parent and grandparent this season at home.

Fighting for the Soul of Your Child” Book Review, Coupon Code, and Giveaway

Growing up, my own parents would quote the Bible to me. One favorite passage, of myself and my family, is that of Proverbs 22:6, which states “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.” A great passage for every member of the family, as the Good Book teaches us at home each evening together. The ultimate in resourcing to aid mothers in helping our little ones face their own day-to-day spiritual battles.

“Fighting for the Soul of Your Child: A Practical Guide to Biblical Parenting,” by Jimmy and Karen Evans, offers parents, teachers, counselors, grandparents, and adoptive parents the tools to help raise their child in today’s ever-evolving, tech-centered, empathy-deprived world. Today’s world is fast-paced and difficult-especially for empathetic souls. Making this rich text a must-have for parents and guardians of all kinds. This text is written to help equip parents with the tools needed to raise spiritually and emotionally healthy young men and women.

Inside, “Fighting for the Soul of Your Child: A Practical Guide to Biblical Parenting,” parents will find tools to aid you in your quest to empower your role as a parent in shaping your child’s future. With the time-tested wisdom of Jimmy and Karen Evans, respected marriage and parenting experts with over 40 years of experience comes their heart-protective learning strategies, effective communication strategies, and secrets to unlocking open and honest communication with your child, and fostering pathways to open dialogue and connection this season and beyond. While gaining powerful insights into handling common parenting challenges, including better listening strategies and skirting social and technological addictions.

With wisdom and thoughtful strategizing, “Fighting for the Soul of Your Child” is a seasonal resource that will provide decades-long resourcing to your little ones and teens alike at home. Raising thoughtful little ones is hard-this resource that helps make your child’s journey to thoughtfulness less difficult. Solid resourcing that will bless your child, and yourself, for years to come.

Discount Code

Ordering your own copy of the “Fighting for the Soul of Your Child” book, couldn’t be easier. You can now save 25% off your order with promotional code MIN25 at the XO Store online, here. You can also shop for this book on Amazon-get “Fighting for the Soul of Your Child,” on Amazon, here.

Connect With XO Publishing
Website / Facebook / Instagram/ Amazon

Plus, be sure to enter my “Soul of Your Child” Book Review Giveaway. One lucky Theladyprefers2save.com reader will win their very own copy of Fighting for the Soul of Your Child, valued at $21.99. Please note, that this giveaway is open to United States Residents only. To enter, simply leave a comment below, or on my social media channels, letting me know why you’d like to read this title with your little ones this season at home. Again, you may also comment on my social media accounts, too. Good luck!

Friends, do you plan to check out, “Fighting for the Soul of Your Child?” Leave your thoughts below.

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