The Monuments Men Movie Review

This movie opens TOMORROW and please go see it. You MUST go see it. Its absolutely moving.

here is the synopsis:

"Based on the true story of the greatest treasure hunt in history, The Monuments Men is an action drama focusing on seven over-the-hill, out-of-shape museum directors, artists, architects, curators, and art historians who went to the front lines of WWII to rescue the world’s artistic masterpieces from Nazi thieves and return them to their rightful owners.  With the art hidden behind enemy lines, how could these guys hope to succeed?  But as the Monuments Men found themselves in a race against time to avoid the destruction of 1000 years of culture, they would risk their lives to protect and defend mankind’s greatest achievements.  From director George Clooney, the film stars George Clooney, Matt Damon, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Jean Dujardin, Bob Balaban, Hugh Bonneville, and Cate Blanchett.  The screenplay is by George Clooney & Grant Heslov, based on the book by Robert M. Edsel with Bret Witter. Produced by Grant Heslov and George Clooney."

 This film has been rated PG-13 by the MPAA for: SOME IMAGES OF WAR VIOLENCE AND HISTORICAL SMOKING

Thanks to GraceHillMedia, I was asked to attend a media screening. Hubby and I went and we were really looking forward to this movie. Once we got there, some other media folks were saying that they heard it was a slow movie... a flop etc. After overhearing those remarks, I didn't have high hopes. 

THANKFULLY, they were mistaken. 

This movie actually left me a little speechless. I walked away with such a greater feeling of appreciation for those who serve our country. My Grandpa served in WWII and I have always had an interest in it. 

The Monuments Men is a telling story about 7 men who fight to keep the history alive. These men have wives, children, and are much too old to be back in the war. But they go. A few die. And at the end they are asked if, in 30 years, anyone will care what they did... what the cost was for the preserved art. 

I will let you decide that for yourself but in my opinion, I say YES! 

Review: Grace Unplugged

Okay folks... mark your calendars and plan on going to see GRACE Unplugged on Oct 4th!

I was sent the books GRACE unplugged and OWN IT to review a few weeks ago. Not only are they fantastically uplifting BUT... they are also endearing and I found myself getting caught up in Gracie's life and rooting for her to find herself. I mean, what girl hasn't gone through a searching time life?? I went through more than one actually and while so very difficult, those were the times that changed me.

Grace Trey is a delightful character who, unbeknownst to her rock-star-turned-to-Jesus Dad, sends her music to his former agent and finds herself in LA as an aspiring singer. As you can imagine, she is faced with various trials and choices with  boys, her dream, and her faith.

Below is an excerpt taken from a press press release: " “Do you own your faith? Do you rent it? Or do you borrow it from your friends or family?” asks Russ Rice, one of the film’s producers and a consultant on the books. “Those are the questions Grace has to answer, and I hope the movie’s audience and the books’ readers answer them, too.”

With a little over a month until the movie release, YOU can score your own book to read before you see the film. The book will be released on Sept 1st and the movie on Oct 4th.

Click here for the GRACE unplugged website and trailer... and don't forget to to download the free song! Giveaway ends Aug 31 so hurry!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Stand Up Paddleboard-ing: Best Date EVER

We recently celebrated our 6th Anniversary. Six years is a drop in the bucket really but I also feel that we have come such a long ways. Our love is deeper and our marriage is solid. We have grown into our roles as husband and wife and, at least for me, have become really comfortable with what that all means. 

One of the things we have such a belief about is PLAY. A couple that PLAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER

We have both discovered how much we enjoy Standup Paddleboarding or SUP. I first saw it 6 years ago in Hawaii and have been dreaming about my turn on the water ever since. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. If you have been thinking about it, don't wait! Go rent boards today.

We went again in Utah for our Anniversary. It was a blast. This time it was on Greco Boards

So here is my question... what is a hobby that you and your spouse enjoy TOGETHER???

I hate April Fools Day

Just after we had our first baby, hubby called saying that she had fallen and I needed come home right now and we needed to go to the ER. So, I hurry and dash out of my meeting (totally crying thinking the worst is happening). Hubby calls back and says "Uhm,... April fools,....." !!!!

I know! Boy was I mad/relived/never going to forgive him. When I got home he said "Uhm... I am so so sorry. It was funny when I first thought about it, but then after I called you I realized it was a very bad idea. "

Needless to say, April Fools has been banned in our home. I HATE everything about the holiday. I think it is a mean and pointless day. Since our daughter is getting older and we now have a son, my heart has softened a little bit. Very very little bit. There are rules and guidelines now. No tricks can be played on Mommy. This day turns into a fun day for Hubby and the kids. This mom watches and laughs and tries to not be too negative. I did find a few fun tricks to play though. This one is a new favorite... well, I hope it will be!

From Martha

What do you do for April Fools Day?

or is it banned from your home too?

Easter Treat

Seriously, how cool would this be??!!!

head over here to get this free printable

Week of Anticipation

In my class on Dating your spouse, I talked about Anticipation. 

Do you make a little invite for your date that night and give it to them?

How about sending a text/picture showing that you are looking forward to seeing them that night?

Paper Coterie has these little gems. FREE DOWNLOAD and they have a few ideas of what you can do with them as well. Head over and a get yours. Make this week one of anticipation! 

Just keepin' the fun going

One HUGE part in a happy marriage is having fun.
My Hubby and I have this running joke and it really probably wouldn't make sense even if I could put it all down on paper. But I thought I would share a little email I got.

Dear Makana,

You forget me and leave me. You never call except when you need me. I've had it and decided to run off with your husband.

Your phone

So whenever we forget something or lose something, we try to be CLEVER and WITTY in letting the other person know. Doesn't it make it so much more fun doing this was rather than "Hey, you left your phone in the car...."

I think yes. 

Chime in, what do you do to keep the fun going?