This is a guest post by Tina L. Scott (formerly Miller). Tina is a freelance photographer from Merrill, Wisconsin with a passion for writing. She can be reached at PhotographyByTina.com
The Review A Lady Like Sarah is not your average romance novel. In fact, Sarah Prescott is hardly what anyone would even call a lady—at least back in 1879 when this story takes place. Bold and opinionated, unconventional—to say the least, and unsophisticated are more apt adjectives to describe her. Wearing men’s britches and shirts, a pair of red cowboy boots, and a hat that hides all of her fiery red hair, Sarah is often mistaken for a man. She walks like a man, talks like a man, and tries to prove she’s every bit as tough as any man alive.
Raised as an orphan by her three outlaw brothers, she lacks an education in both proper speech and grammar—and manners and etiquette appropriate for a woman. So it’s not surprising that she stands out like a sore thumb which makes it easy for her to be apprehended by the law and quickly convicted of criminal activity. And now she is being escorted back to Rocky Creek, Texas, by a U.S. Marshal intent on seeing that justice is served.
And that is when the novel’s main male character, the 32-year-old Reverend Justin Wells from Boston, first meets Sarah. A handsome young preacher not that much older than she, Sarah can’t help but notice his good looks and Godly ways—or the striking contrast between them. He is a law-abiding, do-the-right-thing kind of guy who depends on God to direct his ways and show mercy on everyone. And she is an outlaw, renegade, on-the-run kind of gal who doesn’t believe God heard her prayers for her parents as a child and no longer has much use for a God who would leave a child an orphan.
But together they are thrown into a collection of unusual circumstances and must face multiple dilemmas of practical survival and faith. And each of these main characters will ultimately grow in his and her faith by the end of the story, but not before enduring heartbreak and being tested to the limit and learning that they must both believe in miracles. And this can be a very hard, impractical thing to do given the circumstances at the time.
Margaret Brownley’s writing is whimsical and unconventional, incorporating lots of fun similes throughout her writing. Some were hokey, others amusing, and many original—and they helped to lighten the mood in what otherwise might have been a somber novel. Some of my favorites are “solemn as soap,” “useless as a bucket under a bull,” and “thin as a snake on stilts.” These comparisons—along with Brownley’s knack for capturing the vernacular of the various characters and their unsophisticated way of speaking—helped bring this story to life.
I loved that in this novel, even when it seemed like it couldn’t possibly be so, justice does prevail. It was also wonderful to watch Sarah’s faith blossom and grow like the simple faith of a child. And to see God’s miracles at work—not only in the proclaimed miracles that were cited in this book—but also in the very fact that Sarah and Justin met by God’s grace and intervention and He used them to help each other and to find love and grow their faith.
I highly recommend this story as a good “read for pleasure” book and also a story of substance and faith. Anyone who loves westerns will enjoy this one. And she’ll probably race through reading it like a horse with its hooves on fire!
Plot A magical family takes a family vacation that goes horribly wrong. It’s up to the kids to save their parents’ marriage, and ultimately their own lives.
Starring Selena Gomez, David Henrie, Jake T. Austin, Maria Canals Barrera, David DeLuise, Jennifer Stone, Xavier Torres, and more.
I Recommend
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Review This film is a spin-off of the Disney Channel’s regular sitcom, Wizards of Waverly Place. In the sitcom, the Russo parents run and operate a family diner while their kids juggle traditional school and wizard school. Mr. Russo, once a powerful wizard, gave up his powers to marry a mortal. However, his children have inherited his family’s magical powers and it’s up to Mr. and Mrs. Russo to provide a well-balanced life—between being magical beings and human beings.
In this film, the Russo family decides to take a family vacation to the Caribbean Islands, where Mr. and Mrs. Russo first met. The idea is to bring the family closer, but Alex, the ever defiant middle child, doesn’t find the idea of spending a week with her parents very thrilling and therefore does everything in her power to get out of the vacation. Unfortunately, for her, her plans backfire and she’s made to go—and without her magic wand.
Once in the Caribbean, the Russo family encounter a huge problem—one that could destroy their family forever. In a bit of a tantrum, Alex wishes her parents have never met. What she doesn’t realize when making that wish is that she’s holding her brother’s magic wand!
Now, she must team up with her brothers to reunite her parents before it’s too late. For you see, without her parents meeting, she and her brothers will never be born.
What follows is a heartwarming tale of family bonds and mending fences. It’s through their need to work together, that Alex, and her brothers discover just how much they love and need each other. And they discover how much their parents love them—even when they throw down a set of ground rules the kids don’t necessarily like or want to follow.
I really enjoy the plot behind Wizards of Waverly Place. And I like that fact that it’s good, clean fun—that there aren’t any comedic sexual innuendos, violent scenes, etc. And I found the underlying message subtle, yet teachable.
That being said, I sometimes wonder why the actors aren’t stretching their acting skills more. Take Mrs. Russo, for instance, though I found her role to be one of the most important catalysts in the film, she wasn’t believable as the confused and distraught mother.
Disclosure: I was given a sample to review. This is "my opinion" of the product. I was not paid to give a positive review.
This is a guest post by Tina L. Scott (formerly Miller). Tina is a freelance photographer from Merrill, Wisconsin with a passion for writing. She can be reached at PhotographyByTina.com
The Review
Abby Mitchell is single and virtually family-less. Oh, she has a biological father, but he’s never done a single thing to act like a real father or like he loved her. And ever since her mother’s mental illness and then subsequent death, Abby has longed for that love—the one thing is seems she cannot have no matter how desperately she wants it.
Which makes it ironic that Abby has become an expert on the Hope Diamond; a legendary jewel showcased at the Smithsonian Museum where she works as the Director of the Smithsonian Institute’s Natural Programs. The Hope Diamond, for many, is a coveted object they cannot have any more than Abby can have her father’s love.
Still, that hasn’t stopped wealthy men and women throughout history from spending obscene amounts of money and taking even more ruthless approaches to try to acquire the famous diamond. Some have succeeded and many of these have suffered tragedies and misfortunes—whether by the legendary curse of the stone or simple ill fate it will be up to you to decide. Similarly, Abby continues to take chances and risks her very heart trying to acquire that allusive love from the one man who will not show her any affection.
This novel combines the tale of the Hope Diamond’s historical journey and legend with present day events as readers learn that the Hope diamond is next on the list of famous art objects to be targeted by expert art thieves who have already stolen many famous paintings without any clue as to their identity.
In fact, early on in the story, Abby herself is a firsthand witness to the theft of a famous Salvador Dali painting and she is unable to help identify the thieves or recover the painting either. But Abby never suspects the Hope Diamond—or her very heart—are at risk when she is put in charge of organizing an anniversary fundraiser for the Smithsonian Institute, all focused around the theme of the Hope Diamond.
This story is a fast paced tale of suspense and intrigue, perfect for anyone who loves the arts and a good mystery. It introduces several story lines and possibilities early on and leaves the reader wondering until almost the very end before tying up all the loose ends, but then does so with the skill of an expert storyteller. Throughout the story, the author also alludes to Abby’s search for faith as evidenced by her fascination with churches and cathedrals and photographing them, though she has yet to venture inside. This adds a nice layer of depth to the character and the story—a layer that also achieves a satisfying conclusion at the end of the novel.
Eye Of The God was a great read—enjoyable, entertaining, and intriguing! Curl up with a copy and get lost in the mystery of Eye Of The God.
I Want A Dog For Christmas, Charlie Brown Linus' little brother, Rerun, is tired of playing with Charlie Brown's dog, Snoopy, so he sets out to get a dog of his own.
A Miser Brothers' Christmas Santa is injured by the North Wind and it is up to the Miser Brothers to help save Christmas.
I was asked by Sister Diane if I had a list of the Christmas movies I watch, since I mentioned working my way through a full 30 days, and I realized I didn't. I'd like to have an exclusive review list on The Dabbling Mum some day, but for now, this list will have to do.
A Very Brady Christmas
This isn't on DVD and obtaining the VHS is difficult but if you could get your hands on a copy of this film, I promise you it will be worth it! The Brady's have scattered around the United States and it's up to Mr. and Mrs. Brady to bring everyone back home for the holidays. It's a fairly light-hearted film, until the ending when Mr. Brady gets trapped in a building that collapses and nearly misses Christmas forever.
Jack Frost
This is a heart-warming film about discovering, a little too late, what is most important in one's life. Michael Keaton stars as Jack Frost, an up-and-coming music sensation. He's a loveable father, and an amazing husband, but unfortunately, his career always comes first. But just when he gets his first big break, he realizes that he doesn't want it nearly as much as he wants his family. Unfortunately, he dies in a tragic car accident. A year later, as his son plays his harmonica, he returns as a snowman to put right the wrongs. It'll have you laughing and crying and appreciating just how much your family means to you.
I Recommend
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Holiday Film Collector's Set
This is a four pack DVD so you get four feature-length films to watch: Angel in the Family, What I Did For Love, A Christmas Visitor, and Silent Night. Each film offers hope for the future. Each film encourages us to embrace relationships over traditions and the hustle and bustle of life. Each film reminds us that love, above all else, saves.
Holiday Treats
This DVD features 8 t.v. classics with each episode centering around Christmas: I Love Lucy reminisces about events leading up to little Ricky's birth as they decorate the apartment for the holidays. The Honeymooners reminds us that true love is about the sacrifices you make for the one you love. The Andy Griffith Show reminds us that we can make the most out of any bad situation; especially on the holidays--and change lives in the process. The Brady Bunch reminds us that miracles can indeed happen--if you just believe. Taxi is basically a comical relief. Family Ties takes a unique approach to the story of Scrooge.
Hoiliday TV Classics
There are 49 black and white episodes on this disc. Unfortunately most of them aren't the best quality (which irritates me to no end) since the compiler didn't take the time to clean up the films. However, the sound quality is great. So if you have a lot of decorating, wrapping, or cooking to do--in which you won't be in front of the television, then this is a great one to use! You'll get episodes from Adventures of Robin Hood, Annie Oakley, Beverly Hill Billies, Dragnet, Jack Benny, Ozzie & Harriet (my fav episodes in this set), Petticoat Junction, and Sherlock Holmes. You'll also get full length feature films like A Christmas Carol with Vincent Price narrating, A Tale of Two Christmases, Holiday Affair from Lux Theatre, Blessed Midnight from Dupont Theatre, and more.
I'll Be Home For Christmas
This is a cute film about a college boy who has issues returning home for the holidays since his mother passed away and his father remarried. Yet, when his father promises him the vintage Porsche if he could make it home in time for Christmas dinner, he does everything in his power to get home on time. In the true, National Lampoon's Vacation style, anything that could go wrong does. In the end, the chaos that nearly prevents him from arriving on time is the very moment he realizes how selfish he'd become and how truly special his step-mom, his family, and his girlfriend are.
It's A Wonderful Life
One of the BEST Christmas movies ever made. George Bailey sacrfices his future for the future of his town. But there are days when he wishes he could've lived his dream, too. Then one night, depressed and feeling sorry for himself, he wishes he was never born. Heaven hears his plea, and the wishes of the townfolk, and decide to show Bailey what the town would be like without him and his sacrifices. In the end, Bailey discovers that he is very much loved and needed and discovers a new appreciation and zeal for life.
Jingle All The Way
Aside from Terminator, I have to say that this is one of Schwarzengger's better films. A businessman, who puts work above family, soon discovers that he has let his little boy down by not buying the one gift he really wants. Hell-bent on finding that gift, he steps out into the frantic world of last-minute holiday shopping and discovers that obtaining his son's gift isn't going to be as easy as he thought. Mishap and chaos ensues as he fights with a postal worker over the last Turbo Man action figure. But through a set of unforeseen circumstances he gets to play Turbo Man and as his son informs him that his being a part of the family's tradition--and the parade--is more valuable than the action figure, he discovers the true value of Christmas.
Last Holiday
Georgia Byrd lives a very modest lifestyle. She works, she eyes the love of her life from afar, and she goes home to an empty house where she practices making culinary dishes that rock the world of her next door neighbor. Then one day she is midiagnosed with a deadly illness and decides she is not going to put off her dreams any longer. Pulling all her savings, she flies to Europe to stay in a fancy hotel that uses the services of her chef idol. It's there that she realizes she has what it takes to fulfill her lifelong dream, only she discovers her inner-strength a little too late. Or so she thinks! Just when you think she's on her last leg, a fax arrives to tell her that she has indeed been misdiagnosed. Taking a new lease on life, she goes after her man and starts her own business.
Little House On The Prairie
In this DVD, you get two episodes from the series: Christmas at Plum Creek and A Christmas They Never Forgot. In the first, the Ingalls family scrimp and save to come up with the perfect gift for someone in the family, but it is Laura that makes the ultimate sacrifice, reminding us once again that possessions mean nothing when you have loved ones. In the second, the family reunites for a very special Christmas. When they get snowed in, they decide to swap stories about a Christmas they've never forgotten.
Merry Sitcom
This DVD features 7 t.v. classics with each episode centering around Christmas: Father Knows Best, The Donna Reed Show, McHale's Navy, Bewitched, That Girl, The Flying Nun, and Window On Main Street. Each episode is fun and light-hearted. Each episode will make you smile and want to do something extra special for the ones you love--like baking their favorite dessert, or making something handmade, or gathering around a board game.
I Recommend
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Miracle on 34th Street
Everyone knows this film, the holidays just wouldn't be the holidays without it. A little girl doesn't believe in Santa thanks to her mother's obsession with only stating the facts. But thanks to the Macy Day Parade and a very special man, both mother and child soon discover that sometimes, miracles do happen.
The Santa Clause
By far one of the best films on helping children accept the magic and wonder that is Santa Claus! After Santa falls of his roof and dies, Scott Calvin becomes Santa and his life is changed forever. Ever wonder why Santa lives forever, or how he gets into locked houses, or what makes him so special? This film tells all, and does it by keeping the magic of Christmas alive.
This Christmas
The Whitfield family haven't been together, for the holidays, in years. Ma' Dere, has longed for a united holiday for years and this year, she is getting her wish! But it doesn't come without a price--each member of the family has brought along personal baggage that threatens the holiday and strains family relations. Fortunately, they discover that they need each other and what was once wrong is made right.
Santa Claus Conquers The Martians
Okay, this is a silly film. But it's one that I watched every year as a child and it just wouldn't be Christmas without it. So after the usual Macy's Day Parade, plop this DVD into your player and start your count down because the aliens have stolen Santa and it's up to two very unlikely children to get him back.
Unlikely Angel
Dolly Parton stars as a down-on-her luck singer who works for peanuts but loves what she does. Unfortunately, aside from trying to build a career for herself, she hasn't done anything to warrant entering heaven's gates. But when she sacrifices her life for the life of a deer, heaven decides to give her a second chance at getting into heaven. She returns to earth to help a father reunite with his children after the death of his wife and in the process, she helps him find love again--even if it's not with her.
White Christmas
This is one of my favorite holiday films and I cannot experience Christmas without it. Two talented, song and dance stars, discover their old major general is in trouble and set off to help him save his family business. But in order to do that, they're going to need some very special help from some old army buddies and two musical sisters. It's a heartwarming film about "paying old debts" and "paying it forward". It's about stepping outside one's self to serve a greater good. It's about Christmas magic.
Aside from those films, I always watch a few cartoons. How can you not want to watch:
A Charlie Brown Christmas
A Miser Brother's Christmas
A Year Without Santa Claus
Frosty The Snowman
Frosty Returns
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol
Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer
Santa and the Three Bears
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
Twas The Night Before Christmas
And in the future, I hope to own:
A Christmas Romance (not currently on DVD or VHS)
A Holiday For Love (not currently on DVD or VHS)
A Mom For Christmas (not currently on DVD or VHS)
A Smoky Mountain Christmas (not currently on DVD or VHS)
All I Want For Christmas
Bob Hope- Hope For The Holidays
Captain & Tennille: The Christmas Show
Christmas In Connecticut
Christmas Caper
Diva's Christmas Carol
Holiday Inn
Home Alone, the original (we used to own on VHS, it died)
How A Grinch Stole Christmas, the movie
Pippi Longstocking: Pippi's Christmas
Once Upon A Christmas (we used to own on VHS, it died)
Sonny & Cher - The Christmas Collection
The Holiday
Disclosure: I purchased these items to review; except for It's A Wonderful Life and A Charlie Brown Christmas which were donated for review. This is "my opinion" of the products. I was not paid to give a positive review.
The Plot
Two high school students meet on vacation where they sing a duet, thinking they’d never run into each other again. Then school starts and both discover they attend the same school. Gabriella, a studious mathematician moves to East High School and runs into her former singing partner, Troy, an all-star athlete and son of the school’s basketball coach. Will they be friends or will their differences keep them apart?
Starring
Zac Efron, Vanessa Anne Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Lucas Grabeel, Corbin Bleu, and more.
Review Grease meets West Side Story meets Romeo and Juliet. Yes, High School Musical has it all! The blessing is that Disney’s dropped all x-rated materials, did away with gang fights, and said “No” to teen suicide.
In High School Musical two normal—yet highly talented—teenagers struggle to fit in, accept their differences, and find their voices in the world. It all begins with a Karaoke event while on vacation. It’s there that both discover a natural love for music and singing, but when they return to the reality of their everyday lives, they’re faced with difficult choices. Do they stay on the comfortable, familiar path doing what everyone expects of them or do they dare to try something new and discover what truly makes them happy?
As they try out for the school musical, they’re met with opposition on all sides: the jocks think singing and plays are lame, the math club can think of better ways to spend their time, and Troy’s father finds his new hobby highly distracting—so distracting in fact, that it could cost the school its next big basketball game! And if that isn’t bad enough, several of their classmates work together to put an end to both Troy and Gabriella’s relationship and their newfound dreams of starring in the school musical.
It’s the classic case of trying to find common ground between fitting in and being true to yourself.
In the end, however, Troy and Gabriella find a way to have it all and their classmates discover that it’s okay to do things differently—in fact, it can actually be cool.
To be quite honest, it’s about time more wholesome shows are being aired for the younger generation. Sure, High School Musical is a mushy, unrealistic take on high school, but sometimes that’s just what our kids need! Let them dream! Let them laugh! Let their imaginations soar—and that’s just what this film does.
Your Task
Watch High School Musical with your pre-teens (because from what I’m told, it’s too goody-goody for today’s teens). Then sit down and ask your children what they’d like to do if money were no object, time wasn’t a factor, and the opinions of their classmates didn’t matter. Listen to them without judging, without correcting, and without making faces. Just let them dream.
Once your children tell you what they’d do, ask them how they’d go about doing it. In other words, let the dream live and if, by the end of the discussion your kids really want to give their dream a try—you’ll have the insight to take the next step.
Marcie Lovett is an author and Professional Organizer and Productivity Consultant who coaches residential and business clients on goal setti...
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