Life Perspective: Reviews & More

It's New Year's Eve , and my puppy Jack and I are waiting for the ball to drop. We are more than ready for a New Year. 2012 was a year of many losses for me following the Nashville Flood of 2010 in May and then my washing machine hose breaking in October 2010. After the massive water damage, seeing my house gutted, living in a tiny room at the Microtel for 9 months with a sick dog, having to pay for mold remediation and other repairs out of pocket, then having Landmark Construction cash their check and not finish the work, I lost my precious dog and faithful companion of 17 years, my dear little Miss Katy. Then I received so many damaged possessions back from the ServiceMaster in Nashville which did such a negligent job of packing out and storing my goods, it was just one devastating loss after another throughout 2012. But 2012 was also the year I got my little dog Jack (who looks very sleepy in this photo), started a new job at Sears, got to be an extra on "Nash

Have a Happy New Year's Eve! New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are traditionally celebrated with parties and fireworks at the stroke of midnight as the old year ends and the new year starts. January 1 on the Julian calendar currently corresponds to January 14 on the Gregorian calendar, and it is on that date that followers of some of the Eastern Orthodox churches celebrate the New Year. More at: Have a Happy New Year!

Some skin products turn my face red (left) How to do a patch test for sensitive skin Many people suffer from sensitive skin. Frequently sensitive skin is worse in the winter and/or in the summer when hot and cold weather add irritation to the skin. Some people are allergic to specific ingredients in skin care products, especially products from drug stores and department stores. Whenever a person tries a new skin care product, it is good to do a patch test, Patch test details at: How to do a patch test for sensitive skin - National Skin Care Examiner

Surprising facts: Why an apple a day keeps the doctor away The famous quote "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" has been attributed to Benjamin Franklin's "Poor Richard’s Almanack" which ran from 1732 to 1758. Others claim it first appeared as "A Pembrokeshire Proverb" in 1866. Others believe the saying dates back to the seventeenth century appearing in John Ray’s proverb collection of 1670, while others point to ancient Rome as the source of the old saying. Article at: Surprising facts: Why an apple a day keeps the doctor away - Nashville Skin, Health & Beauty Examiner

Jessica Simpson to continue as Weight Watcher's spokesperson during pregnancy The newly expectant Jessica Simpson, 32, will not be following the Weight Watchers program during her pregnancy and following her doctor's orders instead. However, the weight loss company will continue to air all of the commercials Simpson has already filmed and will continue its relationship with the singer and actress so she can lose weight again under its plan after the birth of her second child. Article at: Jessica Simpson to continue as Weight Watcher's spokesperson during pregnancy - Nashville Skin Care Examiner

January 2013 is right around the corner -- time to shape up, America! January Is 'Shape Up US Month' January is annual Shape Up US month, as well as the month with two lesser-known weekly observances on the same theme. Find out more at: January Is 'Shape Up US Month' --Squidoo

Christmas is here! Oh, tidings of comfort and joy! Following are various articles, poems, and sites about Christmas. May they help bring a merry Christmas to your house. My Christmas wish for 2012 is peace to men of good will. The two children with Santa in the ornament are my brother and I many years ago. Christmas Articles & More   Have a Merry Christmas!   An Online Christmas Card  Christmas is my favorite holiday. I have always looked forward to it all year long and used to start decorating my bedroom in September... Site at: Have a Merry Christmas! Christmas Memories - What Christmas Means to Me Christmas is my favorite holiday -- in fact, the holiday season is my favorite time of the year.I have always loved Christmas, and fondly recall our family traditions at this time of year. Article at: Christmas Memories - What Christmas Means to Me - Yahoo! Voices    Christmas - What's in a Name? I lo

Jack is ready for Christmas. This little 5 lb. papillon puppy sends his holidays greetings along with his wishes that everyone would have a Merry Christmas in 2012 and a Happy 2013 New Year!

The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings  When "The Fellowship of the Rings" came out on December 19, 2001 -- on my birthday, no less, it was the nicest birthday present I could have ever wished for. Peter Jackson did a wonderful job of capturing the spirit of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy, and I found much that was noble, right, pure, and lovely in the movie trilogy. New Zealand made a perfect Middle Earth... Lens at The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings / Squidoo Also see: How Much Money Does J.R.R. Tolkien Make? 2012 Income Salary  

Top 10 Christmas songs by Christian artists (Video) If you are looking for a great playlist for the Christmas season, these ten songs will light up the holidays.These Christmas songs were picked based upon the beauty of the melody and lyrics, the song's popularity and radio airplay, and the ties to the Christian music industry. This list of favorite Christmas carols and songs features music from Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Michael English, Sandi Patti, NewSong, Michael Card, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and more. Article at: Top 10 Christmas songs by Christian artists (Video) - Nashville Gospel Music & Entertainment Examiner

I am so excited by the response to this movie -- including my own! I went to see The Hobbit on Saturday and was blown away. To say I loved it is an understatement. This article was written and submitted on Dec. 4 but Yahoo did not post it until almost midnight on Dec. 16. Fortunately, the article covers much more ground than the pre releases. 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' -- Overview, Pre-Reviews & More Far to the Wast over ranges and rivers begins the tale of Bilbo Baggins of the Shire. Filled with familiar faces including Ian Holm, Ian McKellen, Hugo Weaving, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Elijah Wood and Andy Serkis as Gollum, "The Hobbit: an Unexpected Journey" introduces new characters played by Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, James Nesbitt and Ken Stott. Penned by Christian author J.R.R. Tolkien , " The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey " begins the three-part epic fantasy prequel to "The Lord of the Ring" that int

Karen Handel, Former V.P. of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, on Planned Parenthood Bullying Karen Handel, former vice president of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, has written a book about the way Planned Parenthood bullied the organization after Komen cut funding to the abortion provider. Article at: Karen Handel, Former V.P. of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, on Planned Parenthood Bullying | Christian Activities

ABC's 'Nashville' Mid Season Recap Episodes 1 - 8 Have you been hankerin' for something a little different on the television? Do you enjoy country music and drama? Have you always wondered how things work in the music industry? If you answered yes to any of the above, you might soon become a fan of the new ABC series 'Nashville ' starring Connie Britton, Hayden Panettierre , Charles Esten, Clare Bowen, Eric Close, Jonathan Jackson, Sam Palladio and others. Article at: ABC's 'Nashville' Mid Season Recap Episodes 1 - 8 | Christian Activities

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey another Middle Earth adventure - review & photos Peter Jackson's version of " The Hobbit " begins with the almost three-hour long "An Unexpected Journey" starring Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Ian McKellen, Ian Holm, Hugo Weaving, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, and Elijah Wood. Review at: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey another Middle Earth adventure - review+photos - Nashville Gospel Music & Entertainment Examiner Also see: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey gets mixed but positive previews (slideshow) - Nashville Gospel Music & Entertainment Examiner

Fans of ABC show 'Nashville' invited to be on show ABC's new hit show "Nashville" is inviting fans to be part of the show for two concert scenes to be shot on Friday, Dec. 14 from 1:00pm to 9:00pm and/or Thursday, Dec. 20 from 1:00pm to 9:00pm. Article at: Fans of ABC show 'Nashville' invited to be on show - Nashville Gospel Music & Entertainment Examiner Also see: Twelve Facts about ABC's 'Nashville' for 12-12-12 « Seekyt ABC's 'Nashville' -- Juliette's hymn 'For Your Glory' lyrics & background - Nashville Gospel Music & Entertainment Examiner ABC's 'Nashville' Adds Wholesome Character Who Doesn't Drink or Have Promiscuous Sex | Christian Activities  

Twelve Facts about ABC's 'Nashville' for 12-12-12  Since "Nashville" did not air tonight on ABC because of the 12-12-12 Concert for victims of Hurricane Sandy, I thought I would satisfy your "Nashville" craving with 12 fun facts about "Nashville." Article at: Twelve Facts about ABC's 'Nashville' for 12-12-12 « Seekyt

How Much Money Does J.R.R. Tolkien Make? During his lifetime, Tolkien earned a humble to moderate income as a soldier and a professor, but it was as an author of high fantasy novels that he became wealthy enough to move to Bournemouth, a resort for the upper middle class Article at: How Much Money Does J.R.R. Tolkien Make? 2012 Income Salary

Top 6 Harry Potter vs. Christianity Articles  The Harry Potter books and movies have been wildly popular among audiences of all ages. However, many in the Christian community have felt the books might not be suitable for young readers and viewers or ANY readers and viewers because of the supernatural content which deals heavily with magic, witches, warlocks, dark lords and other supernatural beings. Article at: Best Review - Top 6 Harry Potter vs. Christianity Articles December 2012

Credit: Kathryn E. Darden ABC's 'Nashville' -- Juliette's hymn 'For Your Glory' lyrics & background  In episode 8 of "Nashville" on ABC, Juliette Barnes (Hayden Panettiere) is invited to church by her "choir boy" boyfriend Sean Butler (Tilky Jones). When she arrives at the church, she is persuaded by Sean's little sister Dana to sing a song with the church choir.  Article at: ABC's 'Nashville' -- Juliette's hymn 'For Your Glory' lyrics & background - C hristian Activities

Nashville City Civitan Club hosts holiday party Dec. 6 at Lion's Head Clubhouse The Nashville City Civitan Club held their annual Christmas party on Dec. 6 from 5 - 7 p.m. at the Lion's Head Condominium Clubhouse. Hosted by Marilyn and Earl Henry, the holiday menu included beef tenderloin, marinated shrimp, BBQ sliders, rum cake, craft beer, egg nog, and a variety of other foods, desserts and beverages. Article & photos at: Nashville City Civitan Club hosts holiday party Dec. 6 at Lion's Head Clubhouse - Nashville Civitan Clubs Examiner

Lt. Col. William A. Darden, being awarded the Bronze Cross in World War II I found my grandfather's daily diary a few years ago in my father's possessions. My grandfather passed away soon after I was born. I used his brief entries to write this article about Pearl Harbor. First Person: Pearl Harbor Remembered Through a Grandfather's Diary The Diary of William Allen Darden, Sr. Provides Insight into Life Before and After Pearl Harbor   Yahoo News asked Americans deeply impacted by the Dec. 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor attacks to share how their families were affected in the decades since. Here's my family's story. Col. Wm. A. Darden, 1965 Article at: First Person: Pearl Harbor Remembered Through a Grandfather's Diary - Yahoo! News    

Nashville City Civitan Club holds Dec. 5 meeting The Nashville City Civitan Club held their first December luncheon meeting on Wednesday, December 5 at Swett's in West Nashville with new club president Aaron Justice officiating. Article at Nashville City Civitan Club holds Dec. 5 meeting - Nashville Civitan Clubs Examiner

Lisa Whelchel December 2012 Newsletter  This has been a busy month and it just started! So much to share. So many highs and lows already. Feels like I've been on a roller coaster ride for most of 2012. Read more at: Lisa Whelchel December 2012 Newsletter | Christian Activities

Kutless to partner with Samaritan's Purse on Kutless Military Mission Project  Christian rock band Kutless is sponsoring the Kutless Military Mission Project in partnership with Operation Heal Our Patriots, a project of Samaritan's Purse. The new mission project will minister to service members of all U.S. military branches. Article at: Kutless to partner with Samaritan's Purse on Kutless Military Mission Project - Nashville Gospel Music & Entertainment Examiner

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey gets mixed but positive previews (slideshow) The story of Bilbo Baggins of the Shire is about to become fleshed out thanks to Peter Jackson's three-part prequel to "The Lord of the Rings." The first of the three Hobbit films, which star Ian Holm, Ian McKellen, Hugo Weaving, Cate Blanchett, Christopher Lee, Elijah Wood, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, and James Nesbitt, has already been previewed with mixed but overall positive results which were released this week. Article at: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey gets mixed but positive previews (slideshow) - Nashville Gospel Music & Entertainment Examiner

Speaking of ABC's "Nashville" and skin care... If you've tuned in to the new ABC series Nashville , you know it's about more than just the music business. Diva drama aside, the age-old battle between the tried and true and the shiny and new relates just as much to country music starlets as it does to skincare. Check out the latest webisode of Skinpact News, "Tried and True vs. Trendy," to hear why shopping for sizzle doesn't always get you results. Find out more at Rodan + Fields Dermatologists

Nashville cast photo © Kathryn E. Darden ABC's 'Nashville' Adds Wholesome Character Who Doesn't Drink or Have Promiscuous Sex ABC introduces a wholesome, moral character to the fall hit "Nashville" starring Hayden Panettiere, Connie Britton, Charles Esten, Clare Bowen, Powers Boothe, Eric Close and newcomer Tilky Jones in a recurring role. Will he last? Article at: ABC's 'Nashville' Adds Wholesome Character Who Doesn't Drink or Have Promiscuous Sex | Christian Activities Also see: 'Nashville' Episode 7: Rayna and Juliette's Duet (Recap) - Yahoo!

Nashville cast photo © Kathryn E. Darden What you missed last week on "Nashville!" 'Nashville' Episode 7: Rayna and Juliette's Duet (Recap) Rayna Jaymes (Connie Britton) wants to introduce her new sound at her label's anniversary concert at the Ryman Auditorium. Her label still wants her to release her greatest hits, which she is fighting tooth and nail. Juliette Barnes (Hayden Panettiere) is also performing at the event at the Ryman and invites her choir boy boyfriend, Sean (Tilky Jones).  Article at: 'Nashville' Episode 7: Rayna and Juliette's Duet (Recap) - Yahoo! Voices

T-Bone Burnett from Wikimedia Commons Long-time Christian music producer T-Bone Burnette is behind the music of ABC's new hit show, "Nashville" ABC's 'Nashville' Christian music connections: T-Bone Burnett and more ABC's most popular new show for fall 2012 is the country-music-themed "Nashville." Filmed in Nashville, TN, the series features many Music City sights and sounds including music that often features gospel music ties. Article at: ABC's 'Nashville' Christian music connections: T-Bone Burnett and more - Nashville Gospel Music & C hristian Activities Also see: ABC Nashville's choir boy -- Sean Butler (Tilky Jones) - Examiner

Twilight photo by Nicolas Genin (Wikimedia Commons) I have enjoyed the Twilight Books and movies and have covered them all from a Christian perspective, as well as some of te other movies and events related to the Twilight Saga. These are some of my best articles about Twilight:  Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 2: Why Twilight's Last Gleaming Doesn't Sparkle - Movie Review Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner bring back Bella, Edward and Jacob for Twilight's fifth and final chapter Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 2 with Stewart, Pattinson, Lautner a mediocre movie (Video) "Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 2" was released on November 16, 2012. With returning cast members including Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Ashley Greene, Dakota Fanning, Jackson Rathbone, Kellan Lutz, Nikki Reed, and Peter Facinelli, "Twilight Breaking...   Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part