Beauty and The Beast

Many of you are aware of my huge passion (some call it an obsession) for all things Disney.  Since they first announced this was in the works, I have been super excited to watch this live action remake of a beloved animated Disney movie.  A few weeks ago a media frenzy ensued about the release of this highly anticipated movie.  Many things were published online about the director's comments about some things he alluded were in the movie.  Blog posts, reviews, articles, etc. began to appear ALL over the place.  As I began to read some - I struggled on what I should do about the movie.

I have spent my entire adult life coming alongside parents as they muddle through raising warriors for Jesus in a world that is getting harder and harder to navigate.  Never do I want my actions or endorsements to ever be a stumbling block for anyone- especially children.  I wasn't sure what to think after reading so much.  Until I read a blog from someone who had actually seen the movie (before it had been released).  I have searched to find it again- a friend on Facebook had posted it.  I so wish I had kept it.  I'd like to thank the blogger - she encouraged me to go see the movie and see for myself what I thought of all the "hub bub".

So today I saw the movie.  Here is what I posted on Facebook-

Mike and I went to see Beauty and the Beast today. I wanted to decide what I thought about all the "hub bub" prior to it's release myself. And unless I missed it - there was no kiss. A couple of innuendos on a couple of things - less than in most movies I've seen targeted for kiddos. I really liked the movie. It was awesome. I had a few favorite parts - but I won't spoil it for others. Oh the music- wonderful. I will be singing those songs for a while in my head. I will tell you if you have young children or kids who tend to be scared easily- the wolf scenes and a couple of the ones with the Beast are pretty intense. So there is my two cents for what it is worth!

I have been shocked at the number of responses.  Most all have the same sentiment about the movie as I expressed.  A few asked me if they could share my post- which was very humbling.  It also has reminded me that others are always watching us.  It is a continual reminder to strive to live for Him at all times.  

My favorite scene in the whole movie happens in the castle library.  I am a lover of books (like Belle).  I don't want to spoil it for those who haven't seen the movie yet.  Just wait for it! 

I love the new inspiration for all things Beauty and The Beast - here are a few of my favs- 

Gorgeous Belle Cupcakes

Tale as old as Time Bracelet 

Free Printable Bingo 

Be Our Guest Parties 

Oh, how much fun this classic Disney story allows us to have when we begin to allow our creativity to kick in! 

If you haven't seen the movie- watch the trailer  HERE! 

 Two weeks before the movie I actually got to see Belle's dress while visiting One Man's Dream Exhibit at Hollywood Studios (and watched a sneak peak of the movie- it was just enough to increase my desire to see the movie) !

For those who have seen the movie- leave a comment on what you thought! 

Much Love! 

Mrs. Tara 

A Real Hero

There are many songs, books, t-shirts, quotes - well lots of stuff- that are all about Heroes.  Most people claim to have one in life.  Many are famous people or people who are very accomplished in their career.  Some have heroes who are considered "unsung" because they have gone unrecognized for their contribution and/or bravery.  According to Webster's the definition of hero is - a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities. : a person who is greatly admired. : the chief male character in a story, play, movie, etc.

I heard a real hero speak over the weekend.  You may have heard of her although many have not.  Her name is Gracia Burnham.  You can read about her story HERE! I was excited about the Voice of Martyrs Conference was coming to my church! My husband and I signed up to attend.  Then I heard that Gracia Burnham was coming.  Several things came up the week before and it would have been understandable (and easy) for me to back out of attending. The Lord prompted my heart that Mike and I needed to be at the conference.  

I enjoyed every single speaker.  The Lord taught me so much about those who suffer and are persecuted for their faith.  The Lord convicted me greatly of how I do not pray often enough for my brothers and sisters in the faith who risk their life to live for Jesus.  The Lord gently convicted me I don't thank Him often enough for the freedom I have been given to safely worship and live for Him.  It was oh so encouraging to hear reports from those who work in hard places all over this great big world of how many are accepting Jesus.  It was encouraging to know that even though the "news" reports of so many bad things that the Light is shining bright! 

I discovered that Gracia Burnham would be speaking at a local church the next evening.  I wanted to hear more.  The most impressive thing about Gracia sharing her story is that she has an amazing ability to use her experiences to challenge and encourage her listeners in the places they may be at the moment.  

Gracia was a missionary serving in the Philippines who was taken hostage (along with her husband, Martin) in 2001.  They remained in captivity for over a year.  Captivity ended after a gun battle where the Philippines military attempted to rescue the hostages.  Unfortunately, Martin died in that gun battle and although Gracia was wounded, she survived.  I am currently reading her book In The Presence of My Enemies!  I also have purchased To Fly Again  and can't wait to read it! 

Here are some things Gracia shared that are great reminders and encouragement to all believers...

• In every situation, if you look, there is good because there is God.  He has not abandoned you! 
• Pray for those who spitefully use you. 
• Ask God to help your attitude toward your enemies.  
• Change is hard and as Mark Twain said - the only person who likes change is a wet baby! 
• We can decide to trust ourselves or trust God. 
• Do not hang a "Do Not Disturb" sign on your heart's door. 
• God takes us in hard situations not to crush us but to show us He is good. 
• Keep planting even when you don't see fruit. 
• Maybe you are in a dark place due to no fault of your own or totally your fault....maybe you are there to praise Him in that dark place.  
• God has not abandoned you.  He may have you in this "special" place so you can Praise Him- the one who can take you through any trial.  Simply Praise Him where you are.  

Gracia Burnham / Tara Waldrop 

I was thoroughly blessed by hearing of Gracia's experiences and have her speak into my life!  I highly encourage you if you ever have the opportunity to hear her speak - GO!  Don't let anything stand in your way.  And in the mean time - read her books! 

Much Love! 

Mrs. Tara  

Creator

This morning I heard a song for the very first time ....Creator by Yancy!  The words rushed over me and reminded me what an incredible Creator we have in Jesus!

The post on Facebook by Yancy encouraged it is "a great song for dedication, first birthday or any day of the year!"

Will you take a few minutes and listen to this song and praise the Creator who fearfully and wonderfully made you?  This song is found on Yancy's Roots for the Journey CD.



Creator (Listen to the song here) 
Provided to YouTube by Syntax Distribution Creator · Yancy · Yancy Roots for the Journey ℗ 2013 Dried Rose Music Released on: 2013-05-21 Mixer: Stephen Leiwe.

Today is a great day to Praise Him- wherever you are and whatever situation you are in....He is worthy to be praised and He is good ...All the time!  Amen?
Much Love!
Mrs. Tara