🐾 Great American Rescue Bowl 2025 🐾

Happy National Dog Day! Great American Media announces the return of the Great American Rescue Bowl 2025 with their continued partnership with North Shore Animal League America.

The special will include kittens and puppies looking for their "fur"-ever homes.


Press Release from Great American Media:

GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

NORTH SHORE

ANIMAL LEAGUE AMERICA

ANNOUNCES 

GREAT AMERICAN RESCUE BOWL 

2025 KICKS OFF, FEB 9

FURRY FOOTBALL 

AND MORE 

HEARTFELT RESCUE STORIES 

THAN EVER BEFORE

NEW YORK, NY – August 26, 2024 – On the 20th anniversary of International Dog Day, Great American Family, a leading producer of high-quality, Original content, including Movies & Specials, and North Shore Animal League America, the world’s largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization, announced the network’s 3rd annual “Great American Rescue Bowl” takes the field on Super Sunday, February 9, 2025 (12 p.m. – 2 p.m. ET).

“Great American Rescue Bowl,” America’s most beloved pet adoption special, features spectacular scrimmages between SU-PURR teams of shelter kittens matriculating the ball down the field. Once the kittens hit the showers, it’s time for puppy playoffs in a dogged game of punt, pass, and kick – no, really! All fun aside, “Great American Rescue Bowl” showcases the nation’s passion and commitment to animal rescues, features stories of saving pet lives through fostering, and honors Animal League America and their lifesaving work with their vast network of national and international shelter partners enabling potential adopters to find a best friend while saving more pets lives. Every year, an estimated 1.5 million homeless pets are euthanized. The goal of “Great American Rescue Bowl” is to create awareness for pet adoption while showing the most beautiful pets in the world are available in shelters right in your own neighborhood.

“Saving pet lives has been a personal mission of mine for more than a decade and North Shore Animal League America is a profound partner in saving as many homeless pets as possible each year,” said Bill Abbott, President & CEO, Great American Media. “I am always grateful to showcase these cuddly animals available for adoption because every life saved brings us one step closer to emptying the shelters forever,” Abbott concluded.

“North Shore Animal League America is truly grateful to Great American Media for their continued commitment to shining a light on the plight of homeless animals,” said Joanne Yohannan, SVP, Operations, North Shore Animal League America. “Great American Rescue Bowl gives voice to the voiceless by telling the compelling stories of our lifesaving work with passion, humor and lots of cuteness all while encouraging adoption.”

Photo: Courtesy of Great American Media

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY

As the flagship linear TV network of Great American Media, Great American Family is America’s premiere destination for quality family-friendly programming, featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms and classic series that celebrate faith, family and country. Founded in 2021, Great American Family is home to year-round seasonal celebrations the whole family can enjoy together, including Great American Christmas, the network’s signature franchise featuring holiday themed movies and specials. Great American Family is available in 50 million households via cable and satellite providers; visit https://www.greatamericanfamily.com/channel-finder/or text FAMILY to 877-999-1225 to find your local channel.

ABOUT NORTH SHORE ANIMAL LEAGUE AMERICA®

Over the past 80 years since its founding, North Shore Animal League America has saved more than 1.1 million lives. As the world’s largest no-kill rescue and adoption organization, we understand that a rescue isn’t complete until each animal is placed into a loving home. Our innovative programs provide education to reduce animal cruelty and advance standards in animal welfare. We reach across the country to rescue animals from overcrowded shelters, unwanted litters, commercial breeding facilities, natural disasters and other emergencies and find them permanent, loving homes. www.animalleague.org

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I love that Great American Family works hard to find homes for these puppies and kittens. They have such an incredible passion for these animals, who simply need care and a loving home. As they encourage adoption with this special, I hope many will decide to welcome a new member to their family and, more importantly, into their hearts.

Over the years, we've had many dogs and cats on our farm, and I have loved them all! They have all felt like family to me!

Have a blessed day
and give your fur-babies a special hug
on National Dog Day!🐾🐾

Net

Great American Family Reveals September and Early October 2024 Movie Lineup 🍁 SEE HERE:

Fall in love this September on Great American Family with four rom-com Cable TV movie premieres.

Plus, look for an all-new mystery premiere in October.

See details below...


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The Engagement Plan

Premiere date: September 7, 2024

Starring: Jack Schumacher, Ted McGinley, Mia Pollini, Eva La Rue, Emily Topper, Eric Lutz, Judd Nelson and Faith Ford

Storyline: In The Engagement Plan, Wade (Schumacher) has a plan for everything! Wade’s plan to propose to his girlfriend, Kayla (Pollini) may be the crowning achievement of plans. With a 3-carat diamond ring in tow and reservations booked at the Waldorf for his parents, Dash and Margot, (LaRue, Nelson) and Kayla’s parents, Ed and Mama Marilyn (McGinley, Ford), Wade marvels at the absolute perfection of his engagement plan. Until his plan hits a dead end on a dirt road, a country road. Kayla changes the plan to have Wade meet at her family’s farm to help her mom and dad, whose cow is expecting a calf any day. Dressed in business best, Wade – a fish out of water – has an unexpected – and definitely an unplanned encounter with a family who is not convinced he is right for Kayla. Then Wade meets her ex-boyfriend who tries to prove it.

Movie Review:

🍁 The Engagement Plan – This heartwarming film is family-friendly and filled with faith!

Wade, a financial analyst, thinks he has his whole life figured out according to his plan, but when he visits his girlfriend Kayla’s family at their farm, he steps out of his comfortable city shoes, and begins to learn in a deeper way the wisdom in the words from Proverbs 16:9, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.”

While Kayla’s parents aren’t sure if Wade is the right man for their daughter to marry, Wade is determined to prove them wrong.

The setting of this film on a family farm near harvest time is such a beautiful backdrop for this story. It was wonderful to see the way Kayla’s family trusted in and leaned on The Lord, in the big and simple things.

Some of the comedy is a bit silly and, perhaps, outlandish at times, but it made me laugh, so I hope it does the same for you. The faith elements to the story far outweigh any of the silly antics.

The entire cast is excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing veteran actors: Eva LaRue, Judd Nelson, Faith Ford, and Ted McGinley portray Wade and Kayla’s parents. Since Faith and Ted have worked together before, on the sitcom “Hope & Faith” and the movies: “Karen Kingsbury’s The Bridge,” Part One and Two, it was plain to see their natural ease with portraying husband and wife. I was also touched by the biblical wisdom they imparted to both Kayla and Wade.

The lead actor, Jack Schumacher, who portrayed Wade, was, in my opinion, the star of the movie. Whether he was humorous or serious, his performances were excellent throughout. My favorite scene of Jack’s was a quiet moment of reflection and rejection where he talks to God as he's looking around the farm and quotes from the 23rd Psalm, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want… He maketh me to lie down in green pastures… He restores my soul.” Wade freely admits at a low moment in his life he needs his soul restored.

“The Engagement Plan” is a lighthearted, uplifting, and inspiring movie ideal for all ages. I pray it encourages many to grow and flourish in their faith. ~Net

🍁 The Engagement Plan was as great as I anticipated. I hope we see the guy that played Wade in more GAF movies. ~Anonymous

🍁 Loved The Engagement Plan! –Maria

🍁 Before I leave for church, I wanted to let you know we ended up watching The Engagement Plan and enjoyed hearing all of the scripture references. Amazing job, Great American Family! The world needs more movies like this. -Trish

🍁 It was great seeing Faith and Ted together again. GAF should pair them again in a Christmas movie or something. ~Anonymous

🍁 The Engagement Plan had it all.The cast was great and it was genius casting Faith Ford and Ted McGinley in another movie together as husband and wife. The Pure Flix movies have all been so good and have all been the best movies airing on Saturday night, ~Anonymous

🍁 "The Engagement Plan" was another winner! It was funny, heartfelt and an all around lovely movie. I got a kick out of seeing Eva, Judd, Faith and Ted altogether. I absolutely adored the leading man. He reminded me so much of a young Timothy Hutton. And, yes, I am showing my age by saying that. :-) But, seriously the male lead was the best thing about the movie. He was charming and I would love to see him again on GAF. ~Joan





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Love's Second Act

Starring: Jodie Sweetin and Tilky Jones

Premiere date: Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 8/7c

Storyline: Jamie, portrayed by Jodie Sweetin, is an aspiring filmmaker, who heads back to her hometown for some inspiration. She finds it in ex-boyfriend, Nick, played by Tilky Jones, who still works at the small-town movie theater where they both first fell in love.


Movie Reviews:

🎬 Love’s Second Act – (streamed on Great American Pure Flix)

This is a lighthearted, family-friendly rom-com. The movie was a little slow for me, at times, but it was still a nice watch. It’s the standard story of a woman ,Jamie, played by Jodie Sweetin ("Full House," "Craft Me a Romance," "The Jane Mysteries") who leaves her hometown years ago, then returns and reconnects with her family and her childhood sweetheart, Nick, played by Tilky Jones ("Christmas Love Letter," "The Charm of Love").

Of course, the family business, the local theater, is also in danger of being sold by Nick’s father (played by George Wendt, famously known as Norm on the sitcom, "Cheers"). The theater is a special memorable place for Nick and Jamie, where they worked together as teenagers.

Overall, it is a pleasant, feel-good movie with a happy ending.

A side note for "Full House" fans… I thought it was kind of funny that Jodie played the older sister, and her sister’s name, of all names, was Stephanie.

I wonder if "Love’s Second Act" might be one of the movies we’ll see on Great American Family later this Summer or early Fall. (Update: I wrote this review on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, and my hunch was right! I'm glad more viewers will have a chance to view this movie, if they like, on Great American Family.) ~Net

🎬 Love's second act is okay. -Maria

🎬 I watched the movie. It was pretty good. I think the lead actress wasn't the best fit. Still better than not Jodie Sweetin movies. ~Misty

🎬  Love’s Second Act - I LOVED this movie! Jodie Sweetin and Tilky Jones are a perfect pairing. The story was different, and the plot held enticing hints of what lay ahead. Beautifully written, acted, and directed. I would give it 3 1/2 stars, not perfect, but very near it! 👏👏👏👏 ~aunt_di_77


🎬 Love's Second Act

I think Net has more or less covered all there is to say about this movie. Standard Rom.Com fare which you will have seen many times over. I'm not the biggest fan of Jodie Sweetin nor do I dislike her but I though she and Tilby Jones who although somewhat easygoing combined quite well together

*SPOILERS*

It's one of those where you have to suspend belief - how could the theatre possibly have survived to date, , where did the money come from to buy a new popcorn machine,, the miraculous "saving" of the theatre, Jamie presenting her manuscript which she had returned home to complete to her agent on time etc.

END *SPOILERS*

The secondary cast was fine except for Nick's father who was a ridiculous character.

Taking all this together it shouldn't have worked and I agree it was slow moving at times but maybe because it was my favourite theme of "lovers reunited" I somewhat surprisingly have to say I actually enjoyed it - Florence's rating 7


🎬 Love’s Second Act - It is a hard pass for me! This movie was more than slow it was boring and plain awful. The set seemed so generic and so was the storyline. ~Anonymous


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Love at the Ranch

Premiere date: September 21, 2024

Starring: Laura Mitchell and Jon Cor

Storyline: Sparks fly between a big-city reporter and a ranch owner as she researches the life of the romance novelist that inspired her love for writing.


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Mystery By the Book

Previous title: Key to Love

Starring: Alicia Dea Josipovic and Corey Sevier

Premieres: Saturday, September 28, 2024

Storyline: A bookstore owner (Sevier) is in a difficult relationship with a book cover model (Josipovic) until an antique key found in a false book unlocks their romance.

Movie Reviews:

📖 Mystery by the Book – (I streamed this movie on Great American Pure Flix)

This romantic-comedy is lighthearted, sweet, and endearing. Some of the story is somewhat predictable, but that’s part of the charm that made this movie such an enjoyable watch.

Corey Sevier, who is well-known for a number of TV movies, including “Noel Next Door,” “Everything Christmas,” “Northern Lights of Christmas,” etc… is the true star of this movie, with his portrayal of Josh, an architect and book cover model. His charming personality shined through, as it always does. I felt Corey Sevier was the glue that held this movie together.

In the beginning, I wasn’t certain about the chemistry between Josh and Samantha, who owns and runs the local book store. Samantha and her friend, Brittany, sometimes act like giddy teenagers; however, in spite of that, I still found the movie to be heartwarming and amusing.

It was delightful to watch Josh and Samantha search through Josh’s grandfather’s estate attempting to find a hidden treasure. I especially enjoyed seeing them play dress-up with his grandparent’s clothing and accessories.

Some parts of the movie may be a bit unrealistic, perhaps, but “Mystery by the Book” is a relaxing, family-friendly rom-com that isn’t overly serious, and it leaves you smiling and feeling good inside. ~Net

📖 Review: Mystery By the Book -
Family-friendly? Yes -
Recommend? Yes -

In short, this is a very entertaining movie that held my interest from beginning to end. I felt that the movie shined whenever Alicia and Corey were on the screen together - the chemistry was right-on. The ending that dealt with the contents of the box was nicely done. The only drawback for me, which Net also mentions in her review, was the friend Brittany - she acts like a giddy immature teenage, and I cringed whenever she was on. (She's not the best actress, either.) But this aside, it's a fun movie, and worth at least a watch.~Mark 25

📖 Mystery by the Book is fantastic! ~Maria

📖 Loved Mystery By The Book! ~kit kat



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Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker

Starring: Candace Cameron Bure, Aaron Ashmore, and Robin Dunne

Premieres: Saturday, October 5, 2024

Storyline: In The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker, Ainsley McGregor (Bure) a former Chicago criminologist returns to her hometown of Sweet River, Texas. She has chosen to trade full-time crime work to open Bless Your Arts, a market for artisans to sell crafts and wares. But Ainsley cannot deny her first love is crime solving and accepts a position teaching a criminology class at the local community college. Her skills quickly become a major asset to the quaint town, when a murder occurs at a winery owned by her friend, who now stands accused of the crime. The Sweet River Sheriff, who just happens to be Ainsley’s brother, Ryan, wants her to stay out of the investigation. But, Ainsley knows the pieces of this puzzle do not fit. To help her friend and with the unexpected assistance from some goodhearted local busybodies – Ainsley McGregor is back on the case.

Movie Review:

🔎 "The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker"

*NO SPOILERS*

Candace Cameron Bure is back to crime-solving as Ainsley McGregor, a former criminologist from Chicago who recently moved to Sweet River, Texas, to be near her brother, Ryan (the town’s sheriff, played by Robin Dunne), and her friends to live a simpler life away from crime and violence.

However, this isn’t the case when Ainsley and her best friend, Shannon, discover a dead body at the local winery. Much to her brother’s disapproval, Ainsley reluctantly gets roped into solving this mystery with help from her friends in the community and the handsome local fire chief, Jake (played by Aaron Ashmore).

Just a few minutes into the movie, I was already deeply engrossed in this mystery, the interesting, diverse townspeople of Sweet River, and Ainsley’s dearest friends.

Throughout the film, I felt little hints, here and there, of the Aurora Teagarden Mystery and the early years of Murder, She Baked. Much like Aurora, Ainsley has her own group of crime-solving friends, who have made their own club, and like Murder, She Baked, this new Ainsley McGregor Mystery has a warm, tight-knit community feel to it. Instead of having a cat, however, like Hannah Swensen, Ainsley’s most loyal companion is George, her adorable dog, who everyone loves.

As for the mystery, my family and I had a strong suspicion about who the culprit was, which ended up being correct, but that didn’t take away from our enjoyment of the movie at all.

One of the many aspects I thoroughly enjoyed was the wonderful community in Sweet River, which mostly centered on Ainsley’s business – Bless Your Arts, a marketplace for local artisans, including: artists, woodworkers, winemakers, jewelry designers, weavers, and all sorts of locally handcrafted work.

Aaron Ashmore was charming and endearing as Jake Trenton, the Sweet River Fire Chief and Ainsley’s friend and potential love interest, while Robin Dunne was the perfect choice to play Ainsley’s brother, Ryan. It’s obvious Robin and Candace have a wonderful rapport in real life, which translates well on the screen as the two portray siblings who often tease but love each other immensely.

Candace was fantastic as the film’s lead, Ainsley McGregor, who… try as she might, can’t resist crime-solving, even if it means danger for herself. In her debut as this new character, Candace hits every mark with perfection—on the personal, professional, and sleuthing side—as we learn more about who Ainsley is and why she has returned home.

This introduction movie to Ainsley McGregor was such a delightful watch; I look forward to re-watching it and the subsequent mysteries to come. (By the way, a second movie was recently filmed, "The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker.")

The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker is a fun, cozy mystery, and I’m looking forward to more sleuthing with Ainsley and the town of Sweet River! ~Net

🔎 We loved the new Ainsley mystery. My daughter fell in love with George. It was nice how they incorporated him into the whole movie. We can’t wait to see the next one next year. Christie

🔎 It was pretty awful😬And I love Candace Bure’. The writing was subpar and there was absolutely no rapport between Bure’s character and anyone else. Very disappointed. She should have stayed at Hallmark and continued with the Aurora Teagarden mysteries. I won’t be tuning in for anymore Ainsley… ~Anonymous

🔎 The 'Ainsley McGregor' movie was highly entertaining. We really enjoyed the storyline, the mystery and the acting. I have to admit, it was jarring at first getting used to Robin as a sibling instead of love interest for Candace. :-) But, their sibling relationship was believable. We are already looking forward to the next installment. :-) ~Joan

🔎 I throughly enjoyed the CCB mystery. We were introduced to some quirky but lovely members of the community. The only drawback was the actor portraying Jake. His personality just doesn’t counter CCB character. I don’t see him as a supporting character to CCB. I guess I will get use to him. -Gabe’s Mom

🔎 Ainsley - It has major similarities, another murder, solving group disguised as a book club. Nothing different here. ~Anonymous

🔎 A Case for the Winemaker is excellent! I look forward to the next movie coming next year! :) -Maria

🔎 I agree that this had an Aurora Teagarden feel to it. It was nice to see a cozy mystery again, having given up on everything Hallmark a couple years ago due to their capitulation to the alphabet mafia.

Not terribly exciting, but not everything has to be. Very limited number of possible suspects, so figuring out the killer (if not the real villain) was not difficult, but it's a start, and there's room for growth -- it's going to be a series, and not a one-off, so that's good.~Glornt

🔎 I thought the movie was better than most on GAF. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next episode. ~GB



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If you've seen any of these movies via Great American Pure Flix or another streaming source, please share your thoughts in comments below.

I have seen Love at the Ranch via some streaming source and I recall it being a sweet, family-friendly film. It was supposed to air on UPtv awhile back, but schedules were changed and this movie was removed from their lineup. It's nice to see this delightful romantic-comedy finally find a home on Great American Family.

You can also read my reviews above for the other Great American Pure Flix movies I've seen.

Please share in comments below which of these movies above you are looking forward to seeing this September/October on Great American Family!

Happy movie-watching!

Net

🍋 Squeeze In 🍋 New Summer TV Movies This Weekend -- SEE HERE:

Happy weekend, friends!

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade... and watch new movies?!?!?!?

Of course, one of the new movies this weekend, The Magic of Lemon Drops, is lemon-themed, and since it's a Hallmark Summer Nights movie, it's the perfect time to relax from the heat with a cool glass of lemonade or whatever you enjoy best!

The NEW movies this weekend include premieres in these three genres: mystery, romance, and faith-based. See details below, along with my review of Great American Family's new premiere, Finding Faith.

Plus, keep on scrolling down for info on the all-new Hallmark Mystery Nelly Knows Mysteries, including a link to Pascale Hutton's fashion from my Sister's blog, It's a Wonderful Lifestyle!

Blue Ridge: The Series airs a new episode Sunday night on INSP that involves a very suspicious mystery.

Plus, this Sunday is August 25th, which means... Happy Four Months 'til Christmas! Mark this special day with us! See all of the details below...


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Friday, August 23, 2024:

Nelly Knows Mysteries: A Fatal Engagement

Storyline: When an unusual handwritten letter arrives at Nelly’s (Pascale Hutton) office, she identifies the handwriting as belonging to her childhood friend Dahlia (Sarah Grey), claiming her boyfriend Blake (Julian Haig) is being unfaithful. Determined to help, Nelly wants some answers and rushes to Blake’s home only to find his dead body. When Dahlia becomes the prime suspect, the new, handsome Detective in town, Michael Hogan (Kavan Smith) must work with Nelly to prove that her childhood friend is not the killer everyone believes her to be.

Nelly Knows Mysteries: A Fatal Engagement

Premieres Friday, August 23, 2024

at 9pm/8c. on Hallmark Mystery

🔍 Get the Lʘʘk: Pascale Hutton's Fashions 

in "Nelly Knows Mysteries ~ A Fatal Engagement" 

Visit my Sister's blog *It's a Wonderful Lifestyle* 

for the full fashion scoop!

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Saturday, August 24, 2024:

Finding Faith

Storyline: Victoria, a Christian advice columnist writing under the name Faith, begins to lose her faith after a series of life events. On her journey back to God, she finds her way back to love as well.

Finding Faith

Premieres Saturday, August 24, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family

Movie Review:

🌟 Finding Faith – (streamed on Great American Pure Flix)

This is an impactful story with a heavy plot that deals with marriage difficulties and infertility for Victoria (an anonymous Christian advice columnist) and her husband, Billy, who is a musician, often traveling away from home.

Victoria uses the pseudonym Faith, when giving advice to others, but she’s struggling to deal with her own life issues and finding her faith.

Actor John Schneider portrays Victoria’s father; he’s trying to cope after losing his wife of many years, while Victoria grapples with the pain of losing her mother and a painful secret from the past.

It is revealed that one character had an affair many years ago, and how grace and forgiveness have healed this person’s heart.

Throughout the film, we see the wounds and scars of these characters – and gradually we see their healing after surrendering and turning to God.

Due to the subject content, this is a movie best-suited for a mature audience. ~Net

Please note: As I mentioned above, I streamed this movie on Great American Pure Flix. Some of the content seen in the original version may be edited before it appears on Great American Family.



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Saturday, August 24, 2024:

The Magic of Lemon Drops

Storyline: When Lolly’s (Lyndsy Fonseca) Aunt gives her three magical lemon drops, she gets to experience what her life would have been like if she had made different choices and lived those unfulfilled dreams.

The Magic of Lemon Drops

Premieres Saturday, August 24, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

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Sunday, August 25, 2024:

Blue Ridge: The Series

Episode 5 - Land Grab:

A beloved local horse trainer is killed on the eve of her retirement, and when Justin's team discovers her will, it contains a last-minute change that may be the reason for her death.

Blue Ridge: The Series

airs Sunday, August 25, 2024

at 9pm/8c. on INSP

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Sunday, August 25, 2024:

Happy 4 Months 'til Christmas!

This weekend, on Sunday, as we mark the 25th day of the month and count down the days until Christmas, many devoted Christmas movie followers here at It's a Wonderful Movie try to watch something Christmassy on this special day! If you'd like to participate, simply share which Christmas movie/show you plan to watch to Mark the 25th in comments below.

My pick for this 25th is...



A Gift Wrapped Christmas, a Lifetime Christmas movie starring Meredith Hagner and Travis Milne!

I chose this movie because it's lighthearted, cute, funny, sweet, and entertaining! Basically, I just love it! And with everything going on in the world, I needed something that made me smile and left me feeling good at the end of the day.

If you, by chance, would like to watch A Gift Wrapped Christmas this weekend or any time, there's a link to it on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHzO4iSREAs. If you've never seen this movie, I highly recommend it! A Gift Wrapped Christmas is family-friendly, and for me personally, it's the best Lifetime Christmas movie I've ever seen!

Please be sure to share your Christmas movie pick to *Mark the 25th* in comments below!


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Programming Notes:

*Great American Family-

In addition to the premiere of Finding Faith, classic movies will air all weekend long on Great American Family, including Love in Bloom, Romance at the Vineyard, Nothing is Impossible, One Perfect Match, A Harvest Homecoming, and more!


*Hallmark Channel-

Along with the premiere of The Magic of Lemon Drops, the Hallmark Channel will play classic movies throughout the weekend. Their "A Taste of Love" Movie Marathon on Sunday includes delicious movies like Always Amore and Love, Romance & Chocolate.


*Hallmark Mystery-

This Sunday, Hallmark Mystery will air a marathon of Hannah Swensen Mysteries and an encore airing of Nelly Knows Mysteries: A Fatal Engagement.


*UPtv-

On Saturday, UPtv will air classic movies and a mini-marathon during the afternoon of films from the Love Comes Softly series: Love's Everlasting Courage, Love Takes Wing, and Love Begins. On Saturday evening, UPtv will air two classic Amish-themed films, Love Finds You in Sugarcreek and Love Finds You in Charm. More classic movies like The Engagement Plot and Just for the Summer will air on UPtv on Sunday.


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Have a fantastic weekend, everyone! If you can squeeze in the new lemon-themed movie, the mystery, or the faith-based film, I would love to hear your take on any one of them. Be sure to share your reviews in the comments below.

Please keep in mind that I have not pre-screened the new Hallmark movies.

Pascale Hutton and Kavan Smith have such an easy chemistry with each other on-screen in When Calls the Heart; therefore, I'm looking forward to seeing them both take on these new roles opposite of each other in this new mystery, Nelly Knows Mysteries: A Fatal Engagement. Their banter is always charming, and the looks they give each other are... well... beyond words!!! Their eyes talk! I'm hoping this mystery is as good as the previews look!

The lemon movie The Magic of Lemon Drops looks cute, but I hope the whole "magical" lemon drops doesn't get too weird, if you know what I mean. Otherwise, the leads in this movie, Lyndsy Fonseca and Ian Harding, just started appearing in Hallmark movies two or three years ago, and instantly, I found them both to be extremely likable; therefore, I'm hoping the combination of these two will be just as sweet.

Great American Family's Finding Faith is a deeply soul-searching and inspirational movie. If you missed it above, please be sure to read my movie review for more details.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. If you get the chance to watch something Christmassy, please share in the comments below.

Blessings to you all!

Net

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SHINING HIS LIGHT:

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”

~Psalm 46:1-3

Via the Great American Pure Flix Insider, "the language in Psalm 46:1-3 is a beautiful reminder of God's love for us and His willingness to protect us through His love and care. In "Finding Faith," Victoria is able to remember that God is her refuge and strength when her fear arises during her parent's health scares. She remembers that with God, she still has hope even in times of fear.

Candace Cameron Bure And Cameron Mathison Film Great American Family Christmas Movie "Home Sweet Christmas" - SEE HERE:

Breaking Christmas Movie News: Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison began filming their first Christmas movie together this week for Great American Family, Home Sweet Christmas.

Great American Media stated today that the previously announced Christmas movie, "Jingle Bells, Wedding Bells," which Bure and Mathison were previously slated to star in, will not go into production in 2024. No further details were given on why this project was shelved this year.

In this newly announced holiday film, Home Sweet Christmas, Candace and Cameron will portray old friends who reconnect at Christmastime. Get the full scoop in the press release below.

Press Release via Great American Media:

GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY

ANNOUNCES CANDACE CAMERON BURE

AND CAMERON MATHISON

STAR IN

HOME SWEET CHRISTMAS,

PART OF

GREAT AMERICAN CHRISTMAS 2024

NEW YORK, NY – August 21, 2024 — Great American Family, a leader in the production of high-quality, Original Christmas movies, announced start of production for Home Sweet Christmas, a World Premiere Original Movie, starring Candace Cameron Bure (“Ainsley McGregor Mysteries,” A Christmas Present, My Christmas Hero) and Cameron Mathison (A Kindhearted Christmas, A Merry Christmas Wish, “General Hospital”), which premieres during the network’s beloved franchise, GREAT AMERICAN CHRISTMAS 2024.

In Home Sweet Christmas, Sophie Marlow (Bure), a successful mergers and acquisitions attorney, is called home to Waynesbridge, Washington, following her great uncle’s passing. Uncle Henry left Sophie 60% ownership in his Marlow Maple Meadows, a sprawling patch of sugar maple forest. Though Sophie hasn’t been on the property in decades, she immediately begins retracing the happy steps of her youth before encountering Sam (Mathison), her long-lost, childhood friend. Sam has returned to the farm after learning Henry left him the other 40% of the property. The legacy property means a quick sale is likely, though Sophie and Sam will discover neither of them is ready to let go just yet.

Home Sweet Christmas is a Syrup Studios production in association with Candy Rock Entertainment. Mick MacKay serves as Producer, and Paula Elle directs an original screenplay written by Kevin Commins and Robin Dunne. Executive producers include Candace Cameron Bure, Ford Englerth, Jeffery Brooks, Holly A. Hines, Eric Jarboe, Gerald Webb, Trevor McWhinney, Paula Elle, and Martin Wood. Supervising Producers include Jonathan Shore, Robyn Wiener, Michael Shepard, and David Oland serves as Associate Producer.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY

As the flagship linear TV network of Great American Media, Great American Family is America’s premiere destination for quality family-friendly programming, featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms and classic series that celebrate faith, family and country. Founded in 2021, Great American Family is home to year-round seasonal celebrations the whole family can enjoy together, including Great American Christmas, the network’s signature franchise featuring holiday themed movies and specials. Great American Family is available in 50 million households via cable and satellite providers; visit https://www.greatamericanfamily.com/channel-finder/ or text FAMILY to 877-999-1225 to find your local channel.

ABOUT CANDY ROCK ENTERTAINMENT:

Candy Rock Enterprises is a joint venture between award winning actress, producer and New York Times best-selling author Candace Cameron Bure and the full-service development and execution team behind Redrock Entertainment, Ford Englerth and Jeffery Brooks. Candy Rock’s Entertainment division develops, produces, and distributes television projects, lifestyle programming and feature length films with an emphasis on family-friendly content. Instagram: @CandyRock.Entertainment

ABOUT SYRUP STUDIOS:

Syrup Studios is a Canadian deficit-financing studio focused on exceptional films, series, and international co-productions for global audiences. Syrup’s highly tailored approach to developing, financing, producing, and distributing content through entrepreneurial business models brings each compelling story to life.



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My Quick Take:

Okay... so this story sounds good, but it also sounds very familiar. Am I right? Who is shaking their head yes right now?

In fact, Cameron Mathison's previous Great American Family Christmas movie with Jill Wagner, A Merry Christmas Wish (which I love, by the way!), has nearly the same storyline. Only in that movie, Cameron's character doesn't have any percentage of ownership to the farm; however, the two were old friends who enjoy reminiscing and their time on the farm together. And Jill's character, like Candace's, is also a busy, powerful business woman from the city.

Those similarities aside, I'm sure this new Christmas movie will have it's own uniqueness. Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison are two of my favorite TV movie actors, so I would never miss a movie with them in it, especially one on Great American Family. I look forward to seeing how this movie will differ from previous movies with this familiar theme.

Please share your thoughts in comments below.

May your day be

Merry & Bright!

Net

🎄 Jen Lilley Hints New Christmas Movie Details 🌟 SEE HERE:

Today, in her Instagram story, Jen Lilley leaves some clue bread crumbs for her followers on her recently filmed Christmas movie project.

She points to a link that takes us directly to her IMDB page. Three projects—A Little Women's Christmas, Operation Mistletoe, and Revelation Road—are included in the upcoming production notes.

A Little Women's Christmas was filmed in July in Franklin, Tennessee, and will premiere on Great American Family this Christmas season. See more details - here.

Revelation Road is a faith-based TV series starring David A. R. White. It has seven episodes and will begin premiering on Great American Pure Flix this Fall. Jen Lilley will portray Rachel in the sixth episode, The Puppeteer.

The Christmas movie, however, that Jen was referring to is... Operation Mistletoe!

IMDB officially lists in the cast:

Jen Lilley
Nick Bateman
Melanie Leishman
René Escobar Jr.
Steve Belford
Lisa Michelle Cornelius

Nick Bateman previously starred in A Christmas Miracle for Daisy and will be Jen's opposite in this all-new Christmas film.

Operation Mistletoe was directed by Bradley Walsh (A Royal Date for Christmas, Swing Into Romance).

The script was written by Ansley Gordon, Kathleen Knox, and Bob Sáenz. You may recognize Ansley's name as the star and writer behind The Abigail Mysteries. Ansley has also starred in a number of TV movies, mostly romantic comedies. 

According to IMDB, this is Kathleen Knox's first writing credit, while Bob Sáenz has written three previous Christmas movies for Great American Family, including A Dash of Christmas, A Brush with Christmas, and A Christmas Star.

Produced by:

David Anselmo ... producer
Amy Krell ... executive producer
Brad Krevoy ... producer
Lorenzo Nardini ... executive producer
Amanda Phillips ... executive producer
Cara J. Russell ... executive producer


Please stay tuned for any official announcements on this Christmas movie project starring Jen Lilley and Nick Bateman!

Have a Merry Day!

Net🌟