"...Featuring" by Norah Jones- Review & Giveaway

Thanks to the lovely people over at One2One Network, my toes have been tapping this week to the cool, smooth new sounds from Norah Jones.  Her latest album, "...Featuring," releases next Tuesday, November 16th, and I was graciously granted the opportunity to give it an early whirl.

...Featuring is a star-studded collection of the multi-platinum selling, multi-Grammy Award winning singer's musical collaborations from the past decade.  The 18 songs on the album include cool cameos, collaborations and duets with such legends as Ray Charles, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton, and with 21st century icons from OutKast to The Foo Fighters.  The tracks on ...Featuring span Norah's entire career and reveal her astonishing musical versatility, from jazz to country, hip-hop to rock.

The track listing for ...Featuring is as follows:

1. Love Me – The Little Willies 
2. Virginia Moon – The Foo Fighters featuring Norah Jones
3. Turn Them – Sean Bones featuring Norah Jones
4. Baby It's Cold Outside – Willie Nelson featuring Norah Jones
5. Bull Rider – Norah Jones and Sasha Dobson
6. Ruler Of My Heart – Dirty Dozen Brass Band featuring Norah Jones
7. The Best Part – El Madmo 
8. Take Off Your Cool – OutKast featuring Norah Jones
9. Life Is Better – Q-Tip featuring Norah Jones
10. Soon The New Day – Talib Kweli featuring Norah Jones
11. Little Lou, Prophet Jack, Ugly John – Belle & Sebastian featuring Norah Jones
12. Here We Go Again – Ray Charles featuring Norah Jones
13. Loretta – Norah Jones featuring Gillian Welch and David Rawlings
14. Dear John – Ryan Adams featuring Norah Jones
15. Creepin' In – Norah Jones featuring Dolly Parton
16. Court & Spark – Herbie Hancock featuring Norah Jones
17. More Than This – Charlie Hunter featuring Norah Jones
18. Blue Bayou – Norah Jones featuring M. Ward

My thoughts on ...Featuring:  If you've enjoyed her other albums, then I'm relatively certain you will like this one, as well.  It's basic Norah Jones stuff... nothing out of the ordinary.  I admit I was hoping she would bring some new things to her musical table; but, apart from the guest artists on each song, there really wasn't anything that stood out as vocally different or new.  I still very much enjoyed the album, because let's face it-- Norah Jones' soothing voice is like chocolate... good with just about anything!

Check out her website, Facebook page, and YouTube Channel for the latest news, tour dates and other information from Norah Jones.

•BUY IT•

...Featuring is available for pre-order from Amazon.  Reserve your copy here.

•WIN IT•
One reader of Keeping Up Klapper will receive a copy of ...Featuring by Norah Jones.
To enter the giveaway, choose to do any or all of the following actions, then leave a comment letting me know what you did:

*Follow my blog via Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)

*Subscribe to my feed via email or reader. (1 entry)

*Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest. (2 entries for 1 tweet, per day)

*Go to the Facebook page and like Norah Jones. (1 entry)

*Share this giveaway on your personal Facebook page. (5 entries)

*Blog about this giveaway.  It doesn’t have to be a separate post.  Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways. (10 entries)

GIVEAWAY RULES:

Comments will close on Sunday, November 28, 2010 at 11:59 PM CST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra entries).  US residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated.  Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.  Be sure to leave a SEPARATE comment for each additional entry.

A cd was provided to me at no cost by One2One Network in order to facilitate my review.  I was not required to provide a positive review, only an honest one.  The viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.

"Trusting in the Shepherd"- DVD Review & Giveaway

Back at the beginning of September, my 3-year-old daughter and I began a journey together of preschool homeschooling.  This was definitely an unchartered path for the two of us, but one that we both were anxious to begin.  I didn’t know much of what I was going to be teaching, or even what I was supposed to be teaching.  But one thing that I was sure I wanted to teach her was Scripture memory.  Thankfully, she has successfully embraced this part of our lessons and can now clearly and accurately quote three paraphrased verses:

I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Psalm 139:14

He who walks with the wise grows wise. 

Proverbs 13:20

God is love.

1 John 4:8

Even though my daughter is quite young, her rapidly growing mind is a thirsty sponge.  The quantity that she soaks up from what she is being taught-- both directly and indirectly-- simply amazes me.  For that reason, I’m doing my darndest to find ways to teach her not only concepts she should be learning as a preschooler, but also life-altering truths about her Heavenly Father.

So, my plan is to continue implementing Scripture memory into our weekly lessons by using stories, songs, and even videos when appropriate.  Fortunately, there are many resources available these days that make this endeavor quite easy.  I was recently given the opportunity to review a new children’s dvd that will work wonderfully for this specific objective and hopefully you will find it just as valuable, too.

The newly released video is from Dayspring’s Really Woolly Kids line and is entitled, Trusting in the Shepherd.  The DVD features two all-new episodes about Gracie & Jacob Woolly as they learn the meaning of Psalm 23:4... that Jesus is always with us to guide and protect us.

From a child’s point of view, my daughter has loved this video.  Even after watching the DVD for the first time, the initial words out of her mouth were: “Mommy, can I please watch that one more time?”.  If you are or have been a parent of a preschooler, you know that those words mean, “Great job, Dayspring!”.

From a parent’s point of view, I appreciated the lessons shared in the two episodes, which are about facing fear and trusting in Jesus as our Shepherd.  The music throughout the video is catchy and fun, plus a sing-a-long is included that helps kids memorize Psalm 23:4.  Here is the paraphrase of the verse used in the theme song:

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will not fear...   For You are with me, God, and I am brave when You are near.

Several times I have found myself humming the tune or singing the song as I go about my business each day.  Which means one thing-  I’m learning the Scripture, too!  It’s definitely a win-win situation for both parent and child.

Here are a few more specifics about the DVD itself:

• 40-minute video
• Online Family Adventures Info
• Outtakes
• Really Woolly Kids Trivia
• Deleted scene
• Recommended for ages 3-8

From the DVD’s packaging to the actual content of the video, Trusting in the Shepherd by Dayspring and Really Woolly Kids gets two thumbs up from this resource-hunting parent.  To learn more about this release or other Really Woolly Kids products, I encourage you to visit their website at www.reallywoollykids.com.  Hurry on over to “like” their Facebook page and invite your friends to do the same.

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Good news!  I was graciously given an extra copy of Trusting in the Shepherd to give away to one of my fabulous readers.  For a chance to win this free DVD, just follow the guidelines listed below:


Required entry-  Visit the Really Woolly Kids website and tell me which DVD or gift you like best.

Want an extra entry?  Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.  Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

*Follow my blog via Google Friend Connect.

*Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.

*Follow Really Woolly Kids on Twitter. 

*Subscribe to my feed via email or reader. 

*Go to the Facebook page and like Really Woolly Kids. 

*Share this giveaway on your personal Facebook page. 
 

*Blog about this giveaway.  It doesn’t have to be a separate post.  Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways. 

Comments will close on Sunday, October 31, 2010 at 11:59 PM CST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit).  US residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated.  Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

To enter my other current DVD giveaways, click here and here.

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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.

UPSIDE: Review & Giveaway

Have you ever been journeying down a path in your life that you were certain you had completely figured out, only to find out that nothing was at all what it once seemed?  I know I have... many, many times.  Without a new perspective to see my situation, I would remain stuck, wishing things were better.  

A few days ago, I had the opportunity to view an inspiring film that challenges my perspective and beliefs during those times when life throws twists and turns in my path.  The film is called Upside, and it was released to Christian retailers today by Provident Films, the company who brought to us "Fireproof" and "Facing the Giants."  This coming of age story about faith and romance is an encouraging reminder that when life gets you down, there's always an upside. 

I loved that this movie was entertaining, motivational, and well-crafted. It held my attention from the very beginning and kept my interest to the last frame.  This is a God-honoring film that I plan to recommend to other families and church groups for a long time to come.

Check out the movie overview and trailer below:

UPSIDE:  It's all how you look at it...

High school senior Solomon White seemingly has everything going for him: great athlete, good-looking girlfriend, nice car, scholarship offers, bright future.

But things aren't always as they appear.

When a devastating head injury flips his vision—and his world—upside down, Soli is left not knowing what normal looks like anymore. His challenges grow deeper when he starts falling for Wren, a believer who's been blind since birth.

When you're facing life's twists and turns, it's important to know what you believe. This fresh story of faith, romance, and coming of age is an inspiring reminder that when life gets you down, there's always an UPSIDE.

Would you like to win a FREE DVD of "Upside?"  Here's how to enter my giveaway:

Simply leave me a comment after reading this post and tell me why you'd like to see this movie.

Want an extra entry?  Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.  Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

*Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest. 

*Subscribe to my feed via email or reader. 

*Go to the Facebook page and like Upside. 

*Announce this giveaway on your Facebook page. 
 

*Blog about this giveaway.  It doesn’t have to be a separate post.  Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways. 

Comments will close on Sunday, October 24, 2010 at 11:59 PM CST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit).  US residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated.  Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

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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.

"Bringing Up Bobby"- Review plus Giveaway!

As the weather gets cooler and daylight hours get shorter this time of year, many families begin to look for more ways to spend time together indoors.  One activity that so many people enjoy is a family movie night, complete with popcorn, hot chocolate, and cozy blankets.

Even though we are all bombarded with literally hundreds of movies to choose from, there are very few films that offer our families both a positive, faith-building message along with quality screen work. Fortunately, better Christian films are on the rise and there are several to look out for this upcoming week.

I was recently given the opportunity by Provident Films, which specializes in faith-based movies for families and children, to view a new Christian comedy by Glowing Nose Productions called "Bringing Up Bobby."

"Bringing Up Bobby" is a different kind of comedy about being kind of different.  The siblings of the Wyler family (the movie's main characters) are quirky, the comedy style is goofy, yet the message of faith is solid and strong.  The antics of the Wyler family remind us all that when life gets messy, you can still laugh... and look to God for His direction.

This DVD is clean, witty, and appropriate for any age.  The plot offers various situations that are relevant to teenagers, parents, and anybody who at times feels a bit "different" from everyone else around them.  If you desire to create a movie-viewing experience for your family that is both entertaining and eternally significant, then I encourage you to visit your favorite Christian retailer on Tuesday, October 5, to pick up a copy.

And by the way, don't forget the popcorn!

To read a full synopsis of "Bringing Up Bobby" click here.

To view the movie's trailer click here.

"Bringing Up Bobby" can also be found on Facebook here and Twitter here.

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Now for the fun part!  One of my readers will win a FREE DVD of "Bringing Up Bobby."  Here's how to enter the contest:

Simply leave me a comment after reading this post and tell me with whom you would enjoy watching this movie.

Want an extra entry?  Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.  Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

*Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.  Be sure to leave a comment below with a link to your "tweet."

*Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.  Leave a comment letting me know that you've become a follower.

*Announce this giveaway on your Facebook page.  Leave me a comment with a link to your announcement.

*Blog about this giveaway.  It doesn’t have to be a separate post.  Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.  And as always, be sure to leave a comment with the link to your post.

Comments will close on Sunday, October 17, 2010 at 11:59 PM CST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit).  US residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated.  Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

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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.

360° Life by Billy Joe Daugherty (plus Giveaway!)

"I've lived as if my life was not my own, as if I have been bought with a price.  My goal is to touch as many lives with the love of Jesus as I can in my brief journey through this earth...  That is how you live the 360° Life-- knowing that you started with God, entered the earth, touched others during your brief stay, and finally completed the circle to enter eternity with God."

--Billy Joe Daugherty

As part of the 360° Life Blog Tour, I recently had the opportunity to read the late Billy Joe Daughtery's last book. It was a very simple, yet encouraging read. He asks these profound questions to the readers:

What if you had a second chance to chart your life?
What if you only had a few days to live?
Would you love?
Would you laugh?
Would you give?
Would you life differently than you do right now?

Ironically, Mr. Daugherty passed away from Lymphoma while this manuscript was still being written. With assistance from his wife, Sharon, and others, final touches were applied and the book was then completed and published. According to the many who knew and loved him, Billy Joe Daugherty truly lived the 360° Life.

This is a wonderful book for anyone to read who is new in their faith or needs fresh encouragement. Even though I didn't agree 100% with his doctrine, I still enjoyed the opportunity to read 360° Life and participate in Waterbrook Multnomah's blog tour.

If you would like to download and read the first chapter of 360° Life, click HERE.

One of my readers will win a FREE copy of 360° Life by Billy Joe Daugherty. Here's how to enter the contest:

Simply leave me a comment after reading this post and include your name and email where you can be reached. Comments will close on May 14, 2010 at 11:59 PM CST. One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry? Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one. Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

*Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest. Be sure to leave a comment below with a link to your "tweet."

*Subscribe to my feed via email or reader. Leave a comment letting me know that you've become a follower of "Keeping Up Klapper."

*Announce the "Keeping Up Klapper" giveaway on your Facebook page. Leave me a comment with a link to your announcement.

*Blog about this giveaway. It doesn’t have to be a separate post. Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways. And as always, be sure to leave a comment with the link to your post.


This book was provided to me at no cost by WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group in order to facilitate my review. I was not required to provide a positive review, only an honest one. The viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.

"What's in the Bible?" Blog Tour and GIVEAWAY

Confession:  My children like to watch TV.  

But honestly, whose children do not?  Not many that I've ever met.  Since I know it's best to limit their viewing time, I do my best to only expose my children to shows that will affect them positively.  And yes, I have to admit-- I want to halfway enjoy the shows, too.  If your situation sounds similar to mine, then I've got a brand new DVD series from Tyndale House Publishers to recommend to your family:

Through his tumultuous adventure with his highly popular creation, Veggie Tales, God took Phil Visher on a refining journey that has presently led him to a more narrow focus with his work- "to lead kids through the Bible and bring it to life for them."  He feels the urgent call "to do something that can take our kids deeper into the Word and make their faith real."  Thus giving us his latest and greatest series, "What's in the Bible."

I recently had the opportunity to preview the first two titles in this new series, "In the Beginning" and "Let My People Go."

Both episodes were fantastic!  From a professional viewpoint, the production quality was top-notch.  The content was creative and enjoyable, blending live action, puppetry and clean animation.  A lot like "Emperor's New Groove" meets "Sesame Street."

Some of my favorite characters included "Buck Denver," "Sunday School Lady" and "Chuck Wagon."  I can't tell you how many times I literally laughed out loud at these guys.  On top of being very entertaining, the videos are incredibly educational.  They really get into some nitty-gritty, specific facts about the Bible and its history that I never knew or remembered.  (I mean, I've never heard of the word "apocryphia"... Have you?!)  I love that not a single minute of either episode was "cheesy" or contrived.  This is QUALITY work!  I'm excited to know that there is now material out there that my kids will actually ENJOY while learning about the best selling, most influential book of all time... the Holy Bible. 

The first two episodes in this series get 5 stars and 8 thumbs up from me and my family.  These DVDs would be perfect for both a family movie night or homeschooling lesson.  There's something for everyone at any age to learn and laugh about.  We can't wait for the future "What's in the Bible?" videos to be released!  

Here's a quick preview for you to enjoy:

Now for the fun part!

TWO of my readers will win a FREE copy of a "What's in the Bible?" DVD.  Here's how to enter the contest:

Simply leave me a comment after reading this post and include your name and email where you can be reached.  Comments will close on March 28, 2010 at 11:59 PM CST.  One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit).  US residents only.  Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated.  Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

Want an extra entry?  Do any or all of the following and receive an extra entry for each one.  Be sure to leave me a separate comment for each additional entry.

*Follow me on Twitter AND tweet about the contest.  Be sure to leave a comment below with a link to your "tweet."

*Subscribe to my feed via email or reader.  Leave a comment letting me know that you've become a follower of "Keeping Up Klapper."

*Announce the "Keeping Up Klapper" giveaway on your Facebook page.  Leave me a comment with a link to your announcement.

*Blog about this giveaway.  It doesn’t have to be a separate post.  Just include a blurb about it when you blog about other giveaways.  And as always, be sure to leave a comment with the link to your post.

These dvds were provided to me at no cost by Tyndale House Publishers in order to facilitate my review. I was not required to provide a positive review, only an honest one. The viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.