Love Our Vets - amazing resource!!

"This is the best book on PTSD and vets I've ever read. Anyone who works with vets or is related to a vet needs this book. You won't regret it. As a professor, this book is definitely at the top of my reading list on PTSD. Welby O'Brien is honest, insightful, and incredibly compassionate. Gutsy and sensitive. 

 Absolutely fantastic!"

---Dr. Steve Stephens, PhD, 

counselor, professor, and author

Do you have a family member or friend impacted by PTSD? 

Invite him or her to read Love Our Vets and post a guest review on your blog! 

Love Our Vets was written as a practical book for the families and friends of vets who have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Affecting millions in the U.S. alone, PTSD is an issue approaching epidemic proportions. Certainly for the sufferer fighting through this disorder, life is fraught with difficulties and heartache. However, for every one person struggling with PTSD, there are significantly more friends and family members who are also deeply and profoundly impacted. While someone may not have PTSD themselves, if he or she is living with someone who does, he or she is in fact suffering from it as well.

Now families have a comprehensive, practical book solely dedicated to addressing their specific needs. Love Our Vets answers more than sixty heartfelt questions, providing readers down-to-earth wisdom and much-needed tips for taking care of themselves. Sharing as a counselor and from her personal experience of living with a 100% disabled veteran with PTSD, Welby O'Brien gives hope, encouragement, and practical help for families and loved ones who are caught in the wake of the trauma. This book addresses a broad spectrum of issues and concerns and offers realistic wisdom from a wide variety of individuals who share from real hearts and lives.

Recommended by VA and other counselors, Love Our Vets is a tremendous resource for families and loved ones who struggle along with their vets in the challenges it presents.

Welby O'Brien appeared on AM Northwest in Portland, Oregon. In this interview she explains that PTSD can affect anyone, including veterans and their loved ones

Dayton area church receives national recognition

Dayton, OH -- Fairhaven Church in Centerville, Ohio has been named one of the Best Christian Workplaces in America, one of only 48 churches in the U.S. to earn the designation. The church was founded 52 years ago with twelve families holding service at a local YMCA. Today, the church has three campuses in Centerville, Springboro, and Clayton with approximately 7000 attendees, and a staff of 80 serving the entire Dayton, Ohio area. Dr. David Smith is the current pastor, only the third lead pastor in the church’s long-standing history.
“It is easy to think or say that a church is healthy,” says Smith, “but when you invite an outside group to come in and access and then tell you that you are in the top 50 healthiest churches in America…I feel humbled that I get to work with our staff and leaders who have made it so! We believe that team is everything and that the success of other staff members is our individual priority.”
Fairhaven has been twice listed as one of the Fastest Growing churches in the country by Outreach Magazine. Smith says he believes there are three qualities of his membership and staff that drive their continued growth.
“We maintain a strong and vibrant ministry for children and families,” says Smith. “We encourage our church body to be intentional about their friends, neighbors, co-workers and family. And we have a clear presence in the community to assist people and address social concerns.”

Smith (pictured left) and his wife are parents to a special needs child so the church has become a community-wide refuge for families with special needs kids, offering parents the opportunity to go to church together while their children are being cared for by dedicated church staff. In a recent $10 million expansion campaign, the church added a preschool/nursery building with a two-story play area for community use; a new chapel for weddings, funerals and other smaller events; as well as the launch of their Springboro campus, among other additions.
Over 25% of the church’s budget goes to missions, including a recent $500,000 donation to Bongolo Hospital in Gabon, Africa, which provides medical and spiritual care to thousands of people every year. The church has recently completed mission trips to Quito, Ecuador, Guatemala and China.
 Fairhaven is currently in the midst of a “100,000 hours of Serving” campaign with over 40,000 hours already logged by members and staff. Smith says the essence of the church is to inspire people to reach beyond themselves.

“Our church wants to go beyond our four walls,” says Smith. “This year, we have made a concerted effort to send our congregation out into our community. It’s only through our consistent actions, and concern for those around us that our friends and neighbors will truly see the demonstration of Christ’s love. The tens of thousands of hours we’ve spent demonstrating our concern for those around us is making an impact. We pray that we may continue to shine a light in our neighborhoods together."

For more information, visit www.fairhavenchurch.org.

Hymns by Jason Truby - REVIEWED

ABOUT THE CD:

Little Rock, AR −Former P.O.D. guitarist Jason Truby is releasing a new instrumental CD entitled Hymns on July 27. Renowned for his innovative finger-style guitar techniques, Truby says the project was specifically produced with the purpose to help people who are going through trauma or sickness, and was originally his wife’s idea.

“I have performed finger-style covers of hymns in my live sets over the years,” says Truby, “and one day my wife mentioned the idea of a therapy-type album. I know that suffering can consume a lot of thought and energy, so this album was arranged with peace and healing in mind. We started with the idea of distributing it to cancer patients, and now want to make it available to anyone who may be going through grief, recovery, divorce or any other difficulties.”

Truby was a member of the rock band P.O.D. from 2002 to 2006, writing songs for the band’s self-titled album which quickly went to Platinum sales status. Truby also penned the title song for the “Matrix Reloaded” movie as well as a song for the Dove Award-winning soundtrack for “The Passion of the Christ.” Truby later teamed up with acclaimed guitarist, Phil Keaggy, for several solo albums, as well as played on a finger-style guitar album with the legendary instrumentalist, Chet Atkins, and classical guitarist, John Williams.  Truby also produced the Grafted  compilation CD to benefit Project Zero, a non-profit foundation specializing in adoption and foster care. Grafted included various artists from all genres including Tiffany Thornton, star of Disney's "So Random" and "Sonny with a Chance;” Caitlin Evanson, violin player for Taylor Swift; Keaggy; and Stu Garrard from Delirious, among several others.

The Hymns CD features ten of the most familiar hymns of the church such as “Come Thou Fount,” “Amazing Grace,” “It is Well with my Soul,” and “Be Thou My Vision.” Truby says the project moved him emotionally even during the recording process.

“I hope that these arrangements bring peace, and introspection as they did for me while I was tracking,” says Truby. “The lyrics to these hymns are very powerful, and many of them were written during times of grief and trial. I hope it is a gentle reminder that our time here is short, but our souls are forever. Even in the midst of the chaos and turmoil we are experiencing in our society today, we can attain peace in our souls as we pass through this life, regardless of our physical or material circumstances.”

For more information, visit www.JasonTruby.com oriTunes,

MY THOUGHTS:

This is one of the most beautiful, peaceful CD's I've ever had the privilege to enjoy!  I've always been a fan of the classic hymns, and to listen to them played so beautifully truly touches me very deeply.  I love the fact that there are wind instruments that are used only to highlight the beautiful guitar music.  There seem to be keyboards as well, but it is minimal.  The beautiful, intricate guitar playing captures my heart and mind completely.  

To me, this becomes a very intimate time of worship, because I can totally focus on Christ alone as I softly sing the words of the songs.  I HIGHLY recommend this CD to anyone and everyone!! It is the most beautiful, peaceful selection of music that inhabits the worship and praise of Christ alone. 

“Bringing Up Bates” “Birthdays and Boyfriends” - Thursday, July 28 at 9 p.m. EST

In this new episode, the Bates are back in Florida and are ready to party! It’s the Bates girls’ turn this time to celebrate as Allie Jane and Carlin share a big birthday. The family prepares for the birthday bash, but quickly realize it’s a lot harder to plan a party for both a 1-year-old and an 18-year-old than they originally thought. Then, Kelly Jo and Gil take advantage of their time in Florida when they decide to meet Tori’s boyfriend’s family.

CHECK OUT THE TRAILER HERE!!

“The Great Outdoors?” clip from Episode 109 – “Poof Goes Vacation” - July 27th - 9 p.m EST

Check out the trailer HERE!!!

I was able to preview this episode, and I think these kids will THRIVE in the country!  It's fascinating to watch the kids get introduced to the animals, and it was equally as fun to watch how relaxed the parents were once they were watching the kids enjoy the great outdoors!  This is a family with unique challenges to be sure, but I'm thrilled that they were able to give their kids this fabulous experience!

Silence in the Dark by Patricia Bradley - REVIEWED

About the Book:
Bailey Adams is running for her life . . . again.
When Bailey Adams left Logan Point two years ago she thought she was getting away from her problems. Running into her ex-fiancé Danny Maxwell was not part of the plan--neither was being chased through the city by the local drug cartel, the Calatrava. Now despite her best efforts, Danny is her only chance of escaping the people chasing her and getting back to Logan Point safely. Can Bailey find the strength to face what's coming? And in the midst of the chaos, can she keep herself from falling in love with her rescuer all over again?

With lean, fast-paced prose that will keep you turning the pages, Patricia Bradley pens a superb story of suspense and second chances.
My Thoughts:

“The guy we went to see yesterday is dead.  Murdered.”  (p. 227)

I’d hate to live in a world where kidnapping was so common that people actually need kidnap insurance to pay the ransom!  Well, where drug cartels rule, apparently the insurance – or at least the promise of payment – becomes as deadly as the cartel members doing the kidnapping!  It is just wise to steer clear of anything drug related if possible!

Well, that possibility doesn’t exist in Baily Adams world when she commits to accompany a friend’s niece back to the states to see her grandparents. Sounds simple, right?  NOTHING is simple in the plot of Patricia Bradley’s latest Logan Point novel, Silence in the Dark!  The action begins fast and furious from the very first pages, and never lets up!  Just take my advice and stay far away from drug cartels!  Talk about some mean folks!  Evil has seared their conscious completely!

I’d love to know some of the research that had to go into this novel!  It must have been very intense, because the gun battles, the kidnapping, the car chases….everything is filled with believable details that keep readers glued to the pages!  On top of that, the romantic tension gets pretty intense as well!  There has been loss, and the story brings more loss to the characters, but love always finds a way, and the power of the transformation that love brings is written about just as convincingly! 

So, if you like a romantic, suspense novel that is filled with richly developed characters that take up residence in your heart, then you don’t want to miss this series!  The stories can be read as stand-alone novels, but you don’t want to miss the details!  Patricia Bradley!  She will make your heart race!! 

About the Author:

Patricia Bradley is the author of Shadows of the Past, A Promise to Protect, Gone without a Trace, and Silence in the Dark. Bradley has been a finalist for the Genesis Award, winner of a Daphne du Maurier Award, and winner of a Touched by Love Award. Bradley is cofounder of Aiming for Healthy Families, Inc., and she is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. Bradley makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.

GROUNDBREAKING SERIES OFFERS AN INTIMATE LOOK AT THE LIVES OF YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN BORN WITH DOWN SYNDROME

      A&E NETWORK’S AWARD-WINNING DOCUSERIES

“BORN THIS WAY” RETURNS FOR A SECOND SEASON WITH

10 ALL-NEW EPISODES

TUESDAY, JULY 26 AT 10 PM ET/PT

NEW YORK, NY – June 21, 2016 – A&E Network’s critically acclaimed and award-winning original docuseries “Born This Way” returns for a second season featuring 10 brand-new episodes on Tuesday, July 26 at 10 PM ET/PT. 

Produced by Bunim/Murray Productions, the series follows a group of seven young adults born with Down syndrome along with their family and friends in Southern California. In its first season, “Born This Way” grew steadily across all demos, with adults 25-54 up 84%, adults 18-49 up 64% and total viewers up 67%. Recently, the series was chosen as one of six honorees for the 2015 Television Academy Honors, an award that recognizes television programming that inspires, informs and motivates.

“This remarkable and inspiring series exemplifies the quality original programming A&E strives to bring to our viewers,” said Elaine Frontain Bryant, EVP and Head of Programming for A&E Network. “By honoring and embracing diversity on television, ‘Born This Way’ is uniquely redefining the art of honest storytelling and altering the way society views individuals with differences.”

“Born This Way” provides an intimate look at a diverse group of young men and women with Down syndrome as they pursue their passions and lifelong dreams, explore friendships, romantic relationships and work, all while defying society’s expectations. The series also gives voice to the parents, allowing them to talk about the joy their son or daughter brings to their family, and the challenges they face in helping them live as independently as possible. 

This season, the young adults and their families continue to live their lives with a fresh and honest perspective as the series dives deeper into their personal independence and relationships, including new friends within their community who will also be featured on the show. 

“Born This Way” features:

• Rachel – Rachel is still enjoying her job working for an insurance company but is most looking forward to being the “best person” at her brother’s upcoming wedding.  She is open to new experiences, but after an eye-opening visit with the doctor, Rachel is forced to take action and start adopting a healthier lifestyle.

• Sean – Sean takes a big leap towards independence when he and buddy Steven move into their own apartment. Sean claims he’s no longer a ladies man and wants a girlfriend, so after a few blind dates he gives one lucky woman a promise ring, hopefully putting an end to his tendency towards romantic entanglements.

• John – While John continues to pursue his music career, his parents tell him that the clock is running out on how much longer they’ll financially support him. This motivates John to work harder than ever to achieve his dreams before having to look into other career options.
• Steven –- Steven is hoping to find a girlfriend in the near future, but struggles with the idea of dating someone else with a disability. He’s hoping that since his new roomie, Sean, has a lot of dating experience, he’ll be able to pick up some helpful tips from his “babe magnet” friend.
• Cristina – Cristina and her fiancée Angel continue to look forward to their wedding, but have a lot of life skills to master before they are ready to live on their own.  Their relationship is put to the test when Cristina starts taking ballroom dance lessons and spending time away from Angel. 
• Megan –Megan’s line of clothing, “Megology,” exploded with orders and she is working hard, alongside her mom, to keep up with her successful business. Currently living in Colorado, she is determined to move back to Los Angeles alone but her struggle for independence causes conflict with her closest ally; her mom.
• Elena – Elena struggles to find her place in life and within the group. After a fight with her mom that shocks her friends, Elena is forced to take responsibility for her actions and learn alternative ways to express her feelings.

A&E continues to partner with celebrated global non-profit organization Best Buddies International in support of promoting opportunities and increasing awareness for people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

According to the U.S. Census, one-in-five Americans have a disability. Currently 70 percent of working-age people with disabilities are not working – even though most of them want jobs and independence.  The numbers are even worse for people with Down syndrome.  There are many studies that show that people with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome, can work successfully and live relatively independently.

“Born This Way” is produced by Bunim/Murray Productions (“I Am Cait,” “The Real World”).  Executive producers for Bunim/Murray are Jonathan Murray, Gil Goldschein and Laura Korkoian. Kasey Barrett serves as Co-executive producer. Executive producers for A&E Network are Elaine Frontain Bryant, Shelly Tatro and Drew Tappon.

About A&E Network

A&E leads the cultural conversation through high-quality, thought provoking original programming with a unique point of view. Whether it’s the network’s distinctive brand of award-winning disruptive reality, groundbreaking documentary, or premium scripted drama, A&E always makes entertainment an art.  The A&E website is located at aetv.com.  Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/aetv and Facebook at facebook.com/AETV.  For more press information and photography please visit us atpress.aenetworks.com.

About Bunim/Murray Productions

Bunim/Murray Productions (BMP) is the leading producer of innovative entertainment content.  The Emmy Award-winning company is widely credited with creating the reality television genre with its hit series The Real World (31 seasons on MTV).  BMP continued to innovate with the first reality game show, Road Rules (MTV), in 1995; the first reality sitcom, The Simple Life (E!), in 2003; and the first reality soap opera, Starting Over, in 2003. BMP’s current programming includes Mariah’s World, I Am Cait, Keeping up with the Kardashians, Rob & Chyna, Total Divas, Total Bellas and Cosmo Life (E!), The Real World and The Challenge (MTV), Project Runway and Project Runway All Stars (Lifetime), Bad Girls Club (Oxygen), Valerie’s Home Cooking (Food Network), Born This Way (A&E), Gary Owen Family (BET) and Earth Live (National Geographic). BMP has also produced films, including They Call Us Monsters, Valentine Road (HBO), Pedro (MTV) and the Emmy Award-winning Autism: The Musical (HBO). BMP has launched additional entities including BMP Films, BMP Digital and BMP Latin. Based in Van Nuys, CA, the company was founded in 1987 by Jonathan Murray and the late Mary-Ellis Bunim, who were inducted into the Television Academy’s Hall of Fame in 2012. The company joined Banijay Group in 2010.