Book Tour & Giveaway: Angels

Angels: Who They Are and How They Help--What the Bible Reveals is an interesting look at both the myths and the Scriptural references about angels.   Dr. Jeremiah explains his beliefs about the existance of angels based on his many years in ministry and backed up with Biblical quotes.   He strongly believes that angels are among us, and that they are special messengers from God who will one day escort believers home to heaven.

From the publisher:

What are angels? What is their role in God’s plan? Are they present? Do they appear? Do they give us personal insight about our work, our worship?

Many contemporary beliefs about angels are based on misconception and myth. Dr. David Jeremiah uses scripture to unveil the remarkable truth about these agents of heaven, and their role and work in our world—and lives.

More than 60,000 units of this powerful book have sold in two past editions. This repackage of the original 1996 paperback will surely capture the attention of readers of all ages who seek a broad and thorough survey of scripture that clearly separates fact from fiction as it relates to angels. The book will appeal to the thousands who follow Dr. Jeremiah’s books, and radio and TV broadcasts.

Relevant, little known biblical facts help readers sharpen their knowledge and sensitivities toward the spiritual reality of angels. Dr. Jeremiah’s enlightening findings are supported with illustrations and insights from Billy Graham, Corrie ten Boom, C.S. Lewis, and more.

The kind folks at WaterBrook Multnomah have provided me with a brand new copy of this book to give to one of my readers.  To enter, just leave a comment below with something about angels-- what you think, a related book you've read.... anything.   I'll close the giveaway on February 12th.

My copy of this book was provided in exchange for my honest review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group.

Click for JDRF!

A quick click of your mouse could help the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation win $100,000 in grants!  Here's the email I received from JDRF:

Mark Sanchez, quarterback for the New York Jets, is helping the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) try to win $100,000 in grants as part of the Pepsi Refresh Project, an online campaign to fund programs that will have a positive impact on people’s lives.

Voters can go to www.nfl.com/pepsirefresh and vote for Sanchez, or text ‘MARK’ to PEPSI (73774).  Voting ends at 12:01 a.m. on Feb. 5, 2010.

To view the press release about the project on JDRF's website, click here.

Thanks!

JDRF Government Relations

Artificial pancreas?

JDRF announced a couple of weeks ago that they were partnering with Animas to develop the first artificial pancreas.   This has been a hot topic among diabetic communities online ever since their announcement, but I wanted to share it here for those who aren't involved in those communities.   From the JDRF press release (emphasis mine):

The first-generation system would be partially automated, utilizing an insulin pump connected wirelessly with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). The CGM continuously reads glucose levels through a sensor with a hair-thin sensor wire inserted just below the skin, typically on the abdomen.  The sensor would transmit those readings to the insulin pump, which delivers insulin through a small tube or patch on the body.  The pump would house a sophisticated computer program that will address safety concerns during the day and night, by helping prevent hypoglycemia and extreme hyperglycemia.  It would slow or stop insulin delivery if it detected blood sugar was going too low and would increase insulin delivery if blood sugar was too high.  For example, the system would automatically discontinue insulin delivery to help prevent hypoglycemia, and then automatically resume insulin delivery based on a specific time interval (i.e., 2 hours) and/or glucose concentration.  It will also automatically increase insulin delivery to reduce the amount of time spent in the hyperglycemic range and return to a pre-set basal rate once glucose concentrations have returned to acceptable levels.

If you're not familiar with the terms, the CGM and pump already are commonly used.   However, the CGM currently can be used just to monitor blood glucose levels... it still requires a human to read it, calculate the dosages, and program those into the pump numerous times each day.  It's the automation of the process-- that the sensor and pump might work without human calculations-- that's the breakthrough.

Honestly, the idea gives me chills.   To imagine that my daughter might one day have a sensor to correct her blood sugar automatically 24/7.... just, wow.   I know better than to get my hopes up too high, of course, but the $8 million slated for this project has to be a step in the right direction, right?   I'll be praying for this project!

Virtual March for Life

I used to attend the real march in Washington, DC-- I went for several years in a row.  It was an amazing experience, to stand there surrounded by of thousands of other people who believe in the sanctity of human life.

In this season of my life, though, it's just not practical for me to make it to the DC march.  That's why I liked this idea-- AUL Action is hosting the first Virtual March for Life. 

It will only take seconds, sign up, select your own "avatar" and then invite your pro-life friends and family to participate as well. It's the best way to "be there" even if you can't be there.

Join the Virtual March for Life. Show your support for life. Make your voice heard.

WFMW: frugal purse organizer

I have admired various (expensive) purse organizers forever.  I always thought it would be handy to just move one bag with all my stuff from one purse to another.... but, of course, I wasn't about to shell out $25+ for it.

A couple of weeks ago at a local discount store I bumped into my perfect (frugal) solution:  a mesh cosmetic bag with three outer zippered compartments.  (Mine is a Podulars brand, but unfortunately I couldn't find a link for you.)   It's perfect-- small and lightweight, but with three different sized compartments to separate my stuff--- medications, lip balm, pens, etc.   It fits just right in my smallest purse, with enough room for my wallet and phone to go next to it.  And best of all, I only paid about $6.... much better than those expensive organizers!

Finding frugal solutions to life's minor annoyances.... that definitely works for me!   Check out more great WFMW tips at We Are That Family.