Between Borders movie promo & Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

Based on a riveting true story of faith and hope set amidst great oppression, BETWEEN BORDERS is only in theaters January 26-28, 2025.

Chat With Vera's  review 

My thoughts: It is difficult for Americans to view and comprehend the horror and distress experienced in countries where ethnicity causes untold oppression and danger. While the movie, "Between Borders," doesn't picture enactments of actual violence toward them, the Armenian family in this story lived in constant fear as citizens and multigenerational residents of Azerbaijan. Eventually, this fear led them to emigrate to Russia. The mother is a Communist and feels that Russia would be a good choice for the family to emigrate to in order to flee their oppression in Azerbaijan.

Their settling into life in Russia doesn't go well at all, and they are reduced to living in penury in contrast to their lives in Azerbaijan where both mother and father were professionals and held prestigious jobs. Eventually befriended by individuals from a church started as a missionary effort by an American church community, they begin to live better and they eventually find a new life in Christ.

Alas, they continue to be persecuted in Russia ("you are not white, you are not black") and they eventually seek asylum in America. The movie portrays scenes from a reenactment of an American court hearing on their permission to remain in America.

The movie is moving and causes the viewer to contemplate their own blessing of living in a country where they are not persecuted and to feel more compassionate toward those seeking a safe place from fear of persecution. 

The movie is well done. Acting is very good. The courtroom scenes, though, seemed to be missing something. The story is one to take to heart and well worth spending the time to watch as a family.

For more information,
 Click here (Betweenbordersmovie.com)

GIVEAWAY

$10 Amazon Gift E-Card

Begins January 10

Ends January 28 @ 12:00 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. I was provided an incentive to review this movie. Contest winner's prize is provided by publicist Momentum on behalf of movie promotional program. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. 

CSB Jesus Daily Bible [Review & Giveaway] [Holman Bibles]

ORDER the CSB Jesus Daily Bible today
CLICK HERE

There's a beautiful new Bible recently published that you will love and that will help you enjoy delving daily into God's Word. A perfect way to draw close to God in 2025 in His Word!

About Jesus Daily Bible: The CSB Jesus Daily Bible features a 52-week guided reading plan that shows Jesus throughout all of Scripture. Each week’s reading is structured thematically in a Day 1-5 reading format with a weekly introduction, helpful articles and infographics, and a weekly summary to help readers better understand Jesus’s central role in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Unlike other daily Bibles, the daily reading arrangement is not date specific (e.g., no “January 1”), so you can begin the plan at any point in the calendar year.

Chat With Vera's review!

My thoughts: The copy Holman Bibles sent to me of the CSB Jesus Daily Bible is the blue hard cover edition. It has a beautiful and appealing cover with luxurious gold embossing. The Bible text itself is the Christian Standard Bible version and is a widely accepted version. The font is smaller than I personally like but is totally readable. The paper is thick with very slight shadowing of prior page typeset peeking through. The Bible is fairly heavy but not burdensome. It lays nicely flat when opened which is very appealing for desk or lap placement and ease of handling.

Versions: While the Christian Standard Bible is widely acceptable and yes, some in my own family prefer it, I am very "old school" and still prefer the old reliable King James Version.

This is a "devotional" versus a "study" Bible. The interpretive writings interspersed throughout are focusing on Jesus as he is found throughout the scriptures. You can begin this study to get through the Bible in a year any time during the year. Divided into 52 weeks and each week has five days of readying and study. That leaves two days off (or to catch up). It doesn't skip through the Bible with random readings. You go straight through from Genesis to Revelation with the focus on finding Jesus in the Scriptures.

The daily Scripture readings will therefore be somewhat lengthy (being divided by fewer days than the standard 365-read-in-a-year plans) and add in the interpretive or explanations, you have a fairly lengthy reading.

Study aids at the back of the book include a very nice and fairly extensive Concordance and a nice selection of color maps. 

I have heard sermons that were real blessings to me in the past that focused on finding Jesus throughout the entire Bible - in places a non-Biblical student wouldn't normally see Him. This devotional Bible brings Jesus into one's daily read and understanding of how God has worked throughout eternity in His plan for man's redemption through Jesus.

Order your copy of the CSB Jesus Daily Bible today! Learn more at CSBJesusDailyBible.com 

GIVEAWAY

1 Copy of CSB Jesus Daily Bible

Begins January 21

Ends February 3 @ 12:00 Midnight

Limited to USA addresses only.

(You should enter this giveaway on as many blogs - or opportunities - as possible to give you a better chance at winning a copy. However, you may only win this Bible on one blog posting. Publicist decides if duplicate winner.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Secret word: Daily - Opinions are 100% my own. Winner's Bible is provided and mailed or shipped directly to the winner by publicist or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. Other compensation was received to aid in this posting.

Enduring Grace Church Year Journals for Adults and Kids (Year C)

Look Inside - click here

Some denominations follow the liturgical year close, others losely, and some not at all. Looking at the Enduring Grace Church Year journals, I can see the value of recognizing the liturgical year simply for the fact that it draws the reader to pin-pointed Bible study and observances. As a Baptist we did not truly observe the liturgical year though we observed major events such as Christmas (birth of our Savior), Easter or Resurrection Day (day our Lord and Savior arose from the grave). Perhaps it would behoove us to focus on other events in the Bible on specific days or weeks.

Here is a bit more about the liturgical year:

From earliest times the Church has gathered on Sundays to celebrate the good news of Jesus Christ. Over time an annual cycle of Christian memory-making has also developed, which allows us to remember his life, death, and resurrection; to celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit; and to recall the ministry of the holy people who have spread the Christian faith over the centuries.

Through the structuring of our Christian memory, the past is able to come into our present.

The liturgical or Church year is divided into several seasons. It begins with Advent, which looks forward to Christmas. The visit of the wise men to Jesus is remembered at Epiphany, after which there is a period of ‘ordinary time’. The six weeks of Lent prepare us for Easter, which celebrates Jesus’s resurrection, leading forward to his Ascension and the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church at Pentecost. ‘Ordinary time’ then resumes until the end of the year.

On reflection....

When I opened the beautifully bound adult's edition of the Enduring Grace Church Year Journal I was immediately impacted with the richness of the material. The first section, "Advent," opened with a beautiful hymn-carol and short explanation of its history that revealed the depth of its Biblical meaning. A short reading from the Old Testament, an Epistle, a Gospel reading, and a Psalm. These are short readings but embrace full Scripture. This is followed by a "Collect" which I perceive as a short prayer impeaching the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The reader is then able to record short thoughts on his reflection of the day's readings.

This is continued through the year of Sundays. 

The same pattern is followed in the Children's Enduring Grace Church Year Journal. Noticeably shortened readings but following the same format. The children's version has illustrations to be colored and space the child can record his own reflections. 

The two journal lectionaries may be used together as in a family setting or separately. While these provide beautifully collected Scriptures that reflect on specific portions of the Story of Christ, and while these truly enhance the Christian's life, they are not indepth Biblical studies. These are weekly readings reflecting on major events in the life of Christ and the Church. Beautifully done and a joy to read.

The Enduring Grace Church Year Journal directs the reader to the beauty and dignity of God's Word. So much of this beauty and dignity has been lost in the worship in the church of today. That is not to say that individuals in today's church families are not true believers, it is simply stating that much of the beauty and dignity of worship has been lost and with that loss is a loss of reverence for the Holiness of God and His Word.

Where to Purchase:

ADULT JOURNAL -- https://bit.ly/enduring-grace-a-church-year-journaladult 

CHILD JOURNAL -- https://bit.ly/enduring-grace-a-church-year-journal-for-kids

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each of these books to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.  

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER (in theaters November 8) [Review & Giveaway]

 

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER

The newest film from Lionsgate and Kingdom Story Company is based on the beloved children’s book classic book. As of November 2023, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson has sold more than 7 million copies since its publication in 1972.

Nobody is ready for the mayhem and surprises that ensue when six of the worst youngsters disrupt the town's yearly Christmas performance.

The Herdman kids are absolutely the worst. They lie, they steal, they bully…and they’ve hijacked the town Christmas pageant. Directed by Dallas Jenkins (“The Chosen”) and based on the international bestseller by Barbara Robinson, THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER follows six siblings who sneak into church searching for snacks and walk away with the lead roles in the town pageant. Grace (Judy Greer) is directing the performance for the very first time; she and her daughter, Beth (Molly Belle Wright), and husband Bob (Pete Holmes) are less than amused. But the play’s mischievous stars might unwittingly teach a community the true meaning of Christmas. Featuring Lauren Graham. Screenplay by Ryan Swanson and Platte F. Clark & Darin McDaniel.

There’s no such thing as a Silent Night with the Herdmans around!

Holiday fun awaits the whole family on
November 8 when #BestChristmasPageantEver arrives in theaters! 

My review:  This is absolutely delightful! As a "church lady" that has managed children's church Christmas pageants, I can totally identify with this dear lady. However, never had I the experience of herding the Herdmans or their likes. The story tugs at the heart strings of viewers and draws upon the true spirit of Christianity. I think this is a "Don't miss this one!" and 5-star ranking film.

The story is excellent and it's portrayal top notch. The actors were really good. The filming and costumes excellent. 

Buy tickets today to see The Best Christmas Pageant Ever in theaters starting November 8! CLICK HERE

GIVEAWAY

$10 Amazon Gift Card

Begins November 2

Ends November 17 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: Secret word: Gift - Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. I received a screener's link to view the movie, "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever," prior to public release. I received a small gift for posting and reviewing the film. Winner's Amazon gift card is provided by movie producer and/or publicist and will be emailed directly to the winner. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Morgannas Alchemy 24 Carrot Glow Encapsulated Astaxanthin + Bakuchiol Moisturizer

24 Carrot Glow Encapsulated Astaxanthin + Bakuchiol Moisturizer

$50.00 ~ 24 Carrot Glow Moisturizer

My thoughts: This is a lovely product that goes on smoothly and doesn't leave my skin feeling tacky. The orange coloration of the cream actually leaves a slight residue of tone to the skin (appreciated on my very fair skin) that renders a glowing healthy look.  This is not a tint or makeup product, but a skincare product that leaves a slight tone and a glow to the face. Makeup went on beautifully over the 24 Carrot Glow Moisturizer. (I use a fairly high end brand liquid foundation)  I am very pleased with this Morganna product.

The orangish color melts into the skin
and a slight tinted glow remains.

About the product: Balances oil production, fades dark spots, and protects against pollution and sun damage.

Our 24 Carrot Glow Super Cream is great for even most sensitive skin types, will help with dullness, its orange color will make skin glow. 

The red-orange color of its texture indicates the presence of a powerful active ingredient: astaxanthin.  A powerful antioxidant, more potent and stable than Vitamins C or E Obtained from a Red algae (haematococcus pluvialis), this active ingredient is known to be the most effective free radical scavenger.

Astaxanthin helps skin with premature aging, and formation of wrinkles, reduces UV-induced damage and improves the regenerative capacity of the skin.
This natural complex (astaxanthin with ß-carotene, lutein, canthaxanthin, …) of components contained in algal biomass creating a synergistic effect which involves high bioavailability

Astaxanthin aids skin from the free radical damage that accelerates skin aging. It counteracts UV damage and improves elasticity via improved skin function. It promotes collagen production. (more details)

Buy it here

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary product to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. #sponsored

Review: "My Penguin Friend" the movie - Only in theaters August 19

 

My review: I totally enjoyed this delightful movie. It brings joy to the heart to see the warmth a penguin's strange journey brings to a grieving man. What is even more remarkable is that this is a recounting of a true story about a real penguin and a real man. A real location involving real emotions and actions.

A wonderful family film to be enjoyed by all.

About the movie: Inspired by the incredible true story of DinDim the Penguin, this enchanting adventure is about a little lost penguin who - after being rescued from an oil spill - transforms the life and soul of the heartbroken fisherman. The penguin and the fisherman become unlikely friends, so bonded that even the vast ocean cannot divide them.

A sweeping family adventure, My Penguin Friend is a triumphant tale of friendship between a lonely father and a little lost penguin who recharges his spirit and heals his family with an unshakable, ocean-crossing loyalty. Humble fisherman João (International star Jean Reno) has turned away from the world in the wake of tragedy. But when he discovers a penguin drifting alone in the ocean, drenched in oil from a spill, his first instinct is to help. To his wife’s (Oscar nominee Adriana Barraza) dismay, he not only rescues the sea creature, but takes the flightless bird under his wing. For the first time in years João starts to feel joy, even if he cannot fathom just how unbreakable a bond is being formed. When the penguin suddenly disappears back into the immense wilds of the ocean, João believes it is impossible that he will ever see his friend again. But thousands of miles away, the penguin is caught in misadventures of his own, determined to use his unique GPS-like powers to find his way back to the place he now considers home. Based on an emotional true story that riveted the world and filmed on the spectacular coasts of Brazil and Argentina, My Penguin Friend is a tale that traverses the magic of the ocean, the beauty of nature, and the transformative power of love.

More Info: https://www.mypenguinfriend.com

Disclosure: I received a screening link to view this movie pre-release. Opinions are mine, alone. I only recommend movies that I believe to be clean, and uplifting, and entertaining. @dindimthepenguin @roadsideattractionsfilms @reviewwiremedia #sponsored #MyPenguinFriend 

Purchase tickets to see "The Firing Squad" | Faith-based movie | in theaters August 2nd

Based on the true story of three Christian prisoners who faced execution by firing squad in Indonesia just a few years ago (2015). Their joy in Christ stuns the entire prison camp.   “They faced death. And chose life.”

Details - Videos - Theaters -
Purchase Tickets 
Click Here

In Theaters August 2

My thoughts on the movie: The story that is the foundation for this film actually took place in the Kerobakan Prison in Indonesia in 2015. Kerobakan is a prison holding violent (as most prisons do) prisoners. In that aspect, the film seemed to be a much less violent place. 

Spicing Up the Season with Spicy Pumpkin Loveliness from Good Earth Beauty Exclusives [Review & Giveaway]

 

Pumpkin Caramel Whipped Body Cream - Buy here

What "pumpkin" delight have you had so far this Fall? Pumpkin Latte, pumpkin spice cookie - name your treat! So far I've not had anything in the pumpkin food line but I have been enjoying a Good Earth Beauty Exclusives' Pumpkin Spice Body Cream. The whiffs of this tantalizing aroma are such a delight to me!

Coffee shops and stores are packed with coffees, drinks, cookies, breads, and many other things "pumpkin" and "spice." 'Tis the season of cloves, cinnamon, allspice and other nippy zippy tastes.

And the aromas are intoxicatingly engaging to our senses. Not only our taste buds but our love of being enveloped or wrapped intoxicatingly in these wonderfully sensual scents.

Pumpkin Caramel Whipped Body Cream 

Buy Here

My thoughts:  Another delightful product to luxuriate in as we usher out the waning days of Summer and step into the briskness that is brought to us by vibrant Autumn.

As a lover of things spicy and things pumpkin, I can tell you that this is a product you don't want to miss out on. This product isn't spicy like another of the Good Earth Beauty body creams, but has a caramelized sugary aroma. Crafted lovingly here in the USA in small batches with natural and organic ingredients, the delicate spices will let you breath in an aroma that invigorates and yet relaxes you. 

Route 60 Biblical Highway movie

BUY TICKETS to see the film in theaters
ONLY on September 18 & 19!
https://route60.movie/?mc_cid=0b2bc423dc&mc_eid=0a576d0619

I am so excited about this film. I will never walk the paths in the Holy Land and this film will allow me to journey with my eyes and ears to see and learn the history of that land - the land where the early days of Judaea Christian beliefs began.

What a privilege it was to be invited for a pre-screening of the documentary film "Route 60: The Biblical Highway." Beautifully executed to show the land, its history, and importance not only political but to the three major belief systems of today: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. All recorded history and writings of these belief systems have connectivity stemming from Abraham. Hosted by Secretary Mike Pompeo and Ambassador David Friedman who each delighted viewers with their personal insight and joy in bringing this production to life. I viewed this on my computer and eagerly await viewing on a larger screen.

About ROUTE 60: Carving through the heart of the Promised Land is the biblical spine of Israel, sometimes referred to as the Path of the Patriarchs and officially designated as Route 60. Secret word: Holy Land. A highway of deep historical significance while often the scene of unrest and violence, this 146-mile road of asphalt and concrete begins in Nazareth, Israel’s largest Arab city, and ends in Beersheba, one of Israel’s high-tech centers.  Running north to south, Route 60 connects ancient Israel with modern Israel, Jews and Christians with Muslims, and Israelis with Palestinians.

Click below to watch the trailer!

GIVEAWAY

$10 Amazon gift card

         *Note: This giveaway is limited to US winners only*

Begins September 10

Ends September 22 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

NOTE: If the winner of this giveaway has won the same prize on another blog/promo for this film, they are ineligible to win again per publicists' rules. Hence, a 2nd winner is selected as an alternate who will be notified if they are selected.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I was granted screening privileges to facilitate a review of this movie. Opinions are mine, alone. Publicist is responsible for providing prizes in association with this giveaway.

Falling into Fall with pumpkin & spice scents from Good Earth Beauty Exclusives [Review & Giveaway]

Spiced Pumpkin Brûlée Whipped Body Cream 

Buy here $15.25 4 oz. jar

My thoughts:  This is absolutely heavenly. What a delightful product to luxuriate in as we usher out the waning days of Summer and step into the briskness that is brought to us by vibrant Autumn.

As a lover of things spicy and things pumpkin, I can tell you that this is a product you don't want to miss out on. Crafted lovingly here in the USA in small batches with natural and organic ingredients, the delicate spices will let you breath in an aroma that invigorates and yet relaxes you. 

Natural & organic Trillium products soothe and restore skin [Samples Giveaway USA]

A chance to win great samples and try some calming, skin-soothing products to help your summer time sun-damaged skin in preparation for the harsh winter weather approaching.

 

 

GOD FAMILY FOOTBALL (Amazon Freevee Free Streaming Series) begins September 1 [Review & Amazon giftcard Giveaway]

It's time for some free streaming movie time. Stream FREE on Amazon Freevee the docuseries series "GOD. FAMILY. FOOTBALL."

Free to watch on Amazon Freevee

When: Beginning September 1

Review of the movie: "The Hill" - Based on the Incredible True Story [And a 4-ticket Giveaway]

 

My thoughts: I had the opportunity to view a pre-release screening of "The Hill." Having to view it on my laptop computer did not give the greatest experience, but it was enough to see the value and quality that this film is. Also, the character's accents, really deep southern, were difficult for me even though I, too, am a southerner. Lack of closed captions in this viewing further posed a personal difficulty since I have hearing limitations. However, all that being said, the film is well done, time-appropriately staged, and reflects well on the particular culture surrounding the area and peoples. I thought the acting well done even though some of the characters made me, a southerner, cringe at the imagery.

The Hiding Place Film (2023) [Review & Amazon Gift Card Giveaway]

Experience the incredible true story of Corrie Ten Boom in this new cinema event, coming to theaters in August! A powerful film of Corrie’s faith and courage. 

"The Hiding Place" tells the heroic true story of Corrie Ten Boom and her family, who risked everything to hide Jewish refugees by the hundreds during World War II before being discovered and ultimately facing the consequences. "The Hiding Place" is a story of faith, hope, love and forgiveness in the face of unthinkable evil.

Lotion that feels super good, protects skin, and is all natural - Good Earth Beauty Exclusives Rose Hand Cream [Review & Giveaway]

 It's summer! It's hot! It's muggy! It's delightful!

We love it and our bodies love it because we're more active. We're out getting exercise, breathing more deeply (builds lung power), building muscle strength, and helping our heart. We're soaking in the Vitamin D from the Sun's rays and enjoying that special "glow" we get from sunny days.

We also have some skin hazzards during the summer. Sun exposure dries the skin, toughens the skin, and ultimately degrades the skin. Wind exposure (yes, even those deliciously warm breezes) also dry the skin. 

YOU ARE LOVED JOURNAL AND SCRIPTURE CARDS from Warner Press Scripture Resources

My thoughts: This distinctively feminine collection includes a journal, packet of 52 Scripture cards (and an optional wooden stand), book mark, greeting cards and focuses on soul-affirming messages to sooth and heal wounded hearts.

Good Earth Beauty Exclusives©️ all natural & vegan Lip Balm Made in USA [Review & Giveaway]

There is a saying that "As the days get longer, the cold gets stronger," and we see that is a truism because often we see our coldest most brutal weather in January and February and even to mid-March.

That cold, icy, windy weather wreaks havoc on our skin and especially our lips. They get chapped, rough, split. We need rescue strength help but not necessarily "medical strength."

Find large selection of Good Earth Beauty Lip Balms
at www.goodearthbeauty.com

We need the Good Earth Beauty Exclusives all natural and vegan lip balms. I've told my readers how much I truly love these little sticks of lip balm. There are several "scents" or "flavors" that are favorites of mine and enough variety that most anyone can find his or her favorite.

Today we're looking at "new-to-me" flavors "Coffee Bean," Cinnamon Bun," and "Espresso" that will add that pick-me-up zest to your day. And as you read on, you'll also have the opportunity to win 3 lip balms of your choice for yourself.

LIP BALM -  NATURAL VEGAN Gift Set - set of 3 - Coffee Bean, Cinnamon Bun, Espresso... 

Vegan - natural - soothing and moisturizing - helps heal chapped lips

Lip Balm Natural Vegan set of 3 fun, original scents - coffee beans, cinnamon bun, espresso. Made by Good Earth Beauty $15.00/set
Ingredients: Meadowfoam oil, olive oil, avocado butter, candellia wax, vitamin E, natural flavor oil

So many fun, original scents that you may choose from - Coffee Bean, Espresso, Cinnamon Bun, Chocolate Mint, Day At the Beach, Pina Colada, Candy Hearts, Honey Almond, Bubble Gum, Coconut, Candy Cane Mint, Chocolate Mint, Vanilla Mint, Vanilla Marshmallow, Jelly Beans, Candy Corn, Apple Pie, Frosted Gingerbread, Pink Lemonade, Strawberry, Sugar Cookie, Vanilla Lemon Cupcake or Pumpkin Pie! Made by Good Earth Beauty Price: $6.25 each. Also, several sets-of-3 at a savings.

Shop Good Earth Beauty

FREE SHIPPING in USA

10% off with Discount Code: VERA10

Click Here

GIVEAWAY

3 GEB Lip Balms "Winner's Choice" for 1 Winner

Begins February 1

Ends February 24 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary products to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by Good Earth Beauty Exclusives or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Movie opens in theaters December 1st - I HEARD THE BELLS" [Review & Giveaway USA]

The inspiring true story behind the beloved Christmas carol and its author, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Check out this link for information & to purchase tickets: https://www.iheardthebellsmovie.com/

About I HEARD THE BELLS: The inspiring true story behind the beloved Christmas carol and its author, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

Known as America's Poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow leads an idyllic life...until the day his world is shattered by tragedy. With a nation divided by Civil War and his family torn apart, Henry puts down his pen, silenced by grief. But it's the sound of Christmas morning that reignites the poet's lost voice as he discovers the resounding hope of rekindled faith. In theaters starting December 1st"

My thoughts: I totally enjoyed this beautiful movie for many reasons and on many different levels.

First, it is a beautiful telling biographically of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's life during this specific period of his life. His family. His being America's poet. His extensive writing of poetry. The loss of his wife and its effect on him. 

Secondly, the story begins on the cusp of the American Civil War and you see the impact it has on on the already bereft Longfellow family.

Thirdly, Longfellow's depression and how his writing suffered through this period.

Fourth, Longfellow's composition of the beautiful poem that is "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." The strong statement of faith expressed in the song is doubly moving to me now since seeing the turbulence that gave root to its beauty.

Lastly, the cinematography is stunningly beautiful. The acting and period costumes well done.

I highly recommend this film and believe it will enrich viewers for its historic richness as well as the strong assertation that "God is not dead, nor doth He sleep. For hate is strong, and mocks the song, of peace on Earth good will toward men."

GIVEAWAY

$10 Amazon gift card

Open: Nov. 28--Dec. 5 @ 12:01 a.m. ET         

*Note: This giveaway is limited to US winners only*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sight & Sound® is a ministry on a mission to create spectacular entertainment experiences for the whole family. Since its beginning as a traveling multimedia show in 1976, Sight & Sound has inspired over 25 million people with stories of faith. Today, Sight & Sound owns and operates two live theater locations, immersing audiences in state-of-the-art original productions. Sight & Sound TV launched in 2020, and this online streaming platform has since welcomed a global virtual audience from over 175 countries around the world. Most recently, expansion into feature films was announced, with a first-ever theatrical release set for cinemas nationwide December 2022. For more information, visit www.sight-sound.com.

DISCLOSURE: I was able to view a pre-release screening of "I Heard the Bells" in the comfort of my home to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone. I was gifted a gift card in exchange for my review, though no effort to influence my opinion was made. The giveaway prize gift card is provided and sent directly to  the winner by the publicist. 

Matching Christmas PJs with a Biblical theme from Holy Pals PJs FEATURES star of the season! Jesus! [Review & Giveaway]

Keeping Jesus the reason for the season in fun matching family Christmas pajamas focused on the true story of Christmas!  We pray that Jesus is born inside the hearts of all who wear these pajamas. And that they may witness to their family and friends His amazing love.

• 100% premium grade cotton, chosen for its coziness and softness 
• The cotton was knit in such a way as to maximize stretchiness and breathability. They are SO comfy! 

• 

  Loves his new PJs!

  
  A small label has been stitched on the right arm of all our pajamas with the Bible passage the pajama is displaying, as a reminder to the child and the parents if they’d like to look up the story and read together.
• In addition to Christmas prints, we also offer (Easter, Palm Sunday, Esther, Noah, Daniel, David & Goliath, Jonah, Adam & Eve, and more!)
• These pajamas are snug fitting for women and children and loose fitting for men. 
• Consciously sourced & produced. Made in India

"I'm snuggly now, Mommy!"

What I think about the PJs: I just love these sweet pajamas. Holy Pals PJs sent me a pair and I chose a size for one of my young grandsons. They sent me the Nativity Classic design which depicts Mary, Joseph, Baby Jesus, and various cows, sheep, stars. Lovely. The fabric is a soft knit cotton with lots of stretch. An added feature, is a small label with the Bible reference for the story printed on it. They are, I believe, excellent quality and very well made. This is a great way to help children focus on the true meaning of Christmas. (Keep reading & enter the giveaway below.)

• 

  Teaching children the stories of The Bible in a fun and cozy way
• A small label has been stitched on the right arm of all our pajamas with the Bible passage the pajama is displaying, as a reminder to the child and the parents if they’d like to look up the story and read together
• Softness of cotton, Stretchy material
• Fun prints that kids love
• The various Bible story prints offered (ex. Easter, Palm Sunday, Esther, Noah, Daniel, David & Goliath, Jonah, Adam & Eve)

DISCOUNT CODE - 10% Use this link and discount code:  https:holypals.com/discount/VERA10 

CLICK HERE TO ENTER #GIVEAWAY - https://www.blessedfreebies.com/holypals.html

MEET HOLY PALS! and their mission....

• Give children the opportunity to draw near to Christ, and to help parents teach their children about their faith.
• To shine a light on child-focused charities in need of support, raising awareness of their worthy causes and supporting them alongside our customers.

Every pajama sale supports the Littlest Lamb Orphanage, a privately funded orphanage in Egypt. They have built a home for orphaned and at-risk children who have lost parents to death, imprisonment, or abandonment. The Littlest Lamb provides these children with everything they need to thrive – shelter, food, clothing, education and most importantly A FAMILY that loves them. 

JESUS is the reason for the season!

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary pair of Holy Pals PJs to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway is hosted by publicist who will provide prize and send directly to the winner. Chat With Vera is not responsible for hosting this giveaway nor notifying the winner.

LED Solar Camping Lantern Rechargeable with Bluetooth Speaker, Power Bank [Review]

$19.99 on Amazon

I've found a new "camping" or emergency lantern. And I #founditonAmazon. I love that it has a rechargeable battery that can be USB or SOLAR charged. There is a hanging handle so you can use it outside, camping, or in your home to cast an area light.

There are 2 levels of bright light to illuminate as well as a glow when on. 

A key feature that I just love is it's Bluetooth speaker. You can Bluetooth connect it to your smart phone or other device and the sound is really good!  You can USB connect it to your phone or computer and use the lantern/speaker as a POWERBANK. 

Here is a link so you can check it out for yourself:

 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B4GF35PV?ref=myi_title_dp&th=1

I really like this. Watch my little video.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided this product at no cost to me to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine alone and are given as an honest reflection of my actual use of product in my home. I was not paid beyond the cost of the product for this activity. #sponsored