Waiting for you by Louie Giglio

From the publisher:

Waiting Here For You takes us through the advent – the season of waiting. In it we see the story of the coming of Jesus. It teaches us that waiting is the means God often uses to carry his plans in our lives. And it brings us back to the truth that our waiting is never wasted when we are waiting on God.

Join pastor and author Louie Giglio and take hold of the chance to uncover the vast hope offered through the journey of Advent. Find peace and encouragement for your soul as anticipation leads toward celebration!

Waiting is not wasted when it is waiting with the Lord.

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This is a small book that would be a great light read for someone during the Advent season. 

Each day has a short message and lyrics. People will enjoy reading this as a light read. It isn't anything in depth or lengthy but it can be thought provoking.

I wished that there has been a bit more to each day, whether longer, or discussion/journaling questions at the end. However, it did have things I enjoyed and underlined. 

I received this book free in exchange for my honest review.

Whatever Is Lovely Coloring Book

From the publisher:

We live in such a busy, hectic world—but what waits for you inside this cover is a way to quiet the noise, express creativity, and spend some sweet time with God. Each page features an original design from one of a dozen different artists, beautifully illustrating a contemplative quote from an inspirational writer, a beloved hymn, or Scripture

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This coloring book is so beautiful. Each page has a beautiful scripture or quote that will draw you to God's heart. The pictures to color are detailed and inviting. 

Each picture can be removed and frames too, and the back is blank with another quote. 

I already have people in mind that I want to give this too. I can't wait to color in it myself and can see how this book is not only a relaxing but is also another way to draw near to God.

I received this book free in exchange for my honest review.

Safe House by Joshua Straub, PhD.

From the publisher:

You don’t need to do all the “right” things as a parent. Both science and the Bible show us that the most important thing we can provide for our kids is a place of emotional safety. In other words, the posture from which we parent matters infinitely more than the techniques of parenting.

Emotional safety—more than any other factor—is scientifically linked to raising kids who live, love, and lead well. Learn how to use emotional safety as a foundation from which you parent—and make a cultural impact that could change the world!
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I think this is a book that all parents need to read.  There are so many books about how to parent, techniques and strategies (and they aren't bad, believe me, I've read some to help my sanity!) but what matters is the foundation of the family.  In this book I believe that this was the emphasis.  Emotional safety for your children is what matters most.  If they are emotionally safe, then you can figure out all the other things that come.

But don't be deceived, this doesn't mean the children get whatever they want.  There is a balance (the four walls of the safe house) between grace and truth, and exploration and protection.  The four walls, as the author says, need to be balanced. 

I am glad that I read this, and would recommend it to any other parent.  I think the younger the kids are when you read this, the better.

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.