Friday, September 30, 2011

The Dog Days of Summer Are Gone:(

This post brought to you by Hills Pet Nutrition. All opinions are 100% mine.

Well, I can't believe that fall had come. It seemed to go so fast this year. One thing I have noticed is that the dogs are getting antsy. They like being outdoors but only for so long. We don't have any older dogs and I am kind of glad about that. It is so hard to see them in the winter time and the cold. But, even younger dogs can have a problem with mobility and that is what I want to talk about today.

Hill's Pet Nutrition has a really good mobility dog food and guess what? They even have a mobility challenge right now! You can sign up and get $30 in coupon offers and an instant entry into the sweepstakes, where 30 winners will receive free dog food for a year. I will definitely be entering this and I would urge to do so as well if you have a dog.

There is also a good coupon out right now. Check out the Hill's Healthy Mobility Coupon. I am a big fan of using coupons when going shopping and I can't tell you how much I have saved in the last year by using coupons. Did you know this company is also on Facebook? Check out Hill's Pet Nutrition on Facebook.

My little dog is a Schipperke. She is hyper as all get-out and is unbelievably mobile. I have thought about entering her in agility trials as she has the jump for it:) Even if your dog is an agile dog and you don't see any problems, I for one am going to research this dog food and see if it might help Shadow. Even in the long run it might be better. Hill's Pet Nutrition has a lot of excellent information on their site. Please check it out today if you have a dog.

Visit Sponsor's Site

Thursday, September 29, 2011

CFBA Blog Tour Dangerous Mercy by Kathy Herman

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Dangerous Mercy
David C. Cook (October 1, 2011)
by
Kathy Herman




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:



Suspense novelist Kathy Herman is very much at home in the Christian book industry, having worked five years on staff at the Christian Booksellers Association (CBA) in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and eleven years at Better Books Christian Center in Tyler, Texas, as product buyer/manager for the children’s department, and eventually as director of human resources.



She has conducted numerous educational seminars on children’s books at CBA Conventions in the U.S. and Canada, served a preliminary judge for the Gold Medallion Book Awards of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association , and worked as an independent product/marketing consultant to the CBA market.



Since her first novel, Tested by Fire, debuted in 2001 as a CBA national bestseller, she's added sixteen more titles to her credit, including four bestsellers: All Things Hidden, The Real Enemy, The Last Word, and The Right Call.



Kathy's husband Paul is her manager and most ardent supporter, and the former manager of the LifeWay Christian Store in Tyler, Texas. They have three grown children, five almost-perfect grandchildren, a cat named Samantha. They enjoy cruising, deep sea fishing, and birdwatching—sometimes incorporating these hobbies into one big adventure.



ABOUT THE BOOK



Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. —Matthew 5:7



When eighty-five-year-old Adele Woodmore moves to Les Barbes to be near the Broussards—and her namesake, their daughter—she wants nothing more than a comfortable, quiet life. Employing men from Father Vince’s halfway house for the homeless to do odd jobs and landscaping, she delights in the casual conversation she has with them, the fledgling friendships, and the idea that she is helping them get back on their feet.



A series of murders in Les Barbes has cast a pall over the town and, in fact, one of Adele’s handymen becomes a person of interest to the police. But Adele cares for these young men, she knows them, and continues to show them kindness in spite of her friends’ concern. And then one day a murderer walks through Adele’s defenses, sits down at her kitchen table...and they begin to talk...



If you would like to read the first chapter of Dangerous Mercy, go HERE.

MY REVIEW-I don't know if I have ever read a full book by Kathy Herman. But I will be going back to read some of hers! This one is an excellent novel full of mystery and suspense. Just be ready as there are a ton of characters and I did have a little bit of trouble trying to figure out who was who at first, probably because I have not read the first book in the series. My favorite character was probably Adele. She is such a sweetheart!! So trusting and kind. Zoe is sweet and I am guessing the first book is about her and her family. Grace is really sweet too:) I had pretty much figured out who the killer was but I wasn't sure. Even though I had figured out who it was, I read the whole book. Very intriguing read!!

I found the whole idea of dangerous mercy interesting. This killer thinks they are doing good by killing a person who has done nothing but bad to others. And the attitude is kindness towards others and they think they are doing right. This made for a very neat plot. Excellent book, Kathy!!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation.

Interview with Alice Wisler + Signed Book Giveaway!!

Alright friends, I have an interview today with an author who is pretty well known. I actually just received her book, A Wedding Invitation, in the mail for an upcoming review next week:) And I have to tell you, I learned something about this author that I never knew before! I was really excited about hosting this author, even though I have done it before in the past. She is a real blessing to have as a guest and I can't wait to get started reading her new book. I introduce to you all... Alice J. Wisler!!

Howdy Alice! Glad to have you here today:) Tell me a little bit about your newest book, would ya?

A Wedding Invitation takes place in Virginia and North Carolina, with flashback scenes from the Philippines. Although fiction, it is loosely based on my seventeen months as an English teacher in a refugee camp in the Philippines. It's a story of being accepted, belonging, forgiveness, and second chances. There's romance, a little mystery, and a whole lot of Southern. Even Elvis shows up! As the title suggests, there are also weddings included, even where the main character, Samantha, ends up at the wrong wedding.

You write a lot of southern charm into your books. Were you born in the south?

No, I was born in Osaka, Japan. My parents were missionaries for 38 years. My roots are in the South, though. My mom is from Virginia and her mother was born in North Carolina. I've lived in North Carolina for 23 years.
What is your favorite southern meal?

I love cornbread, so anything with that is wonderful. (There's a recipe for bacon cornbread in my novel, Hatteras Girl, which is delicious.) I've been trying to get my husband to like grits, but he hasn't seen the beauty in them, yet.

Sweet tea or unsweet?

Oh, it has to be sweet tea.
Any favorite hobbies?

I love going out on our boat named after my first novel, Rain Song. I also enjoy cooking, baking, and creating new recipes, so I spend a lot of time in my kitchen.
What advice would you give to the new writer?

Don't give up. Keep improving your writing. Discipline, practice, and tenacity.
What book have you read recently that you loved?

I re-read Rick Bragg's All Over But The Shoutin'. He's a favorite Southern writer of mine and his words always grip my heart.


Any last thoughts for your readers?

Yes, please join my Fan Club Page on Facebook---Alice J. Wisler. And let me hear from you about interesting/quirky weddings and receptions you've attended: info@alicewisler.com

Thank you so much for being my guest here today!

Thanks for having me as your guest, Charity!


So, did you learn anything new? That is one thing I love with an interview is finding out new things about an author I enjoy. I never knew that Alice's parents were missionaries and she was born in Japan. What a blessing this is, that Alice is now grown and doing so much good by writing these books to encourage and help others. Way to go Alice!!

I also suggest everyone learn about their favorite authors and see what they go through in their life. They are human just like we are and can use the encouragement and little things we can do for them. Alice has definitely had her share of pain and yet she is still smiling and helping others. Lets do the same and write an author today to just let them know you like their books, love them and what they do for you!!

So readers, does A Wedding Invitation sound like a book you would be interested in reading? One of my blog readers will win their very own signed copy from Alice!! Get your entries in below:)

MANDATORY ENTRY-
Alice talked about a wonderful southern cornbread. I am one of the few in our family who likes cornbread:) Tell me what your favorite meal is. It doesn't have to be southern but... they are the best:) JK! This is your mandatory entry and must be done or the extra entries do not count. You must leave an email in one of your comments so I can reach you if you are the winner.

US ONLY!!

EXTRA ENTRIES!!

1.Blog or post about this on Facebook. Get 3 entries for each.
2.Follow my blog via GFC, subscribe through RSS Feed or email or follow me on Twitter. Get one entry for each you do.
3.Enter any of my other currently running giveaways. Let me know which ones.
4.Leave a comment on any of my review only posts. This must be for reviews only! Leave a comment for each.
5.Tweet about this giveaway. Can be done three times a day.

6.Friend Alice Wisler on Facebook. Get 3 entries for this.
7.Go check out Alice's blog. Become a follower or leave a comment. Get 2 entries for each.


This giveaway will end 10/13. Winner will be chosen through Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

10 Tips For De-cluttering Your Playroom.

Wow! I have never gotten up and had a Social Moms opportunity in my inbox already:) But this morning was great! I just happened to get a RAMBO alert in my emails this morning. So guess what? I have another great opportunity to write about a very top priority subject. I don't know how many times I have had to use these tips. And I have to tell you, the product they are working with... I think I am going to have to check these out myself:)

How many times do you walk into the bedroom or playroom, and have to step over little toy vehicles laying all over the floor? What about the nightly trips to the bathroom and there are toys coming out the bedroom door? Well, the little toy vehicle problem has been solved!! Hot Wheels has now come out with Wall Tracks where they don't play on the floor, they play on the wall!! I am absolutely serious about this and I can't wait to look for them at my local WalMart.

So, with all that said, I am going to give you some tips on how to organize and de-clutter your playroom or little ones bedroom. These are some tips I have found handy through the years and yes, they are not perfect by any means, but these have really helped me.

1.Organize With Plastic Bins and Containers.
This is my number one tip. Pretty much for anything, use bins! We have the type that are stand-up with drawers and the kind that sit on the floor with lids. I use all types and they really come in handy. I can't tell you how much this helps a bedroom or a playroom to look clean! That way things are off the floor and put away.

2.Use Labels.
I use labels for my bins but also for childrens clothing, toys and school things. With 2 children in the house, sometimes things get hectic. Labels will help keep things separated and you won't have all the fighting over things. Labels on bins make sure that things are put back in the right place. I like the ones that I can write on and I will use a marker to put a picture on it or you can use a sticker. That way if the child is too young to read, they can still be learning where things go.

3.Make Cleaning Fun.
Get down with your children and help them clean up, but have fun while you are doing it. Teach them songs as you put away the toys, count and do some math as you clean up. This will help teach them while having fun.

4.Have a Cleaning Time.
I know this sounds funny, but make sure you have a time where they clean up. Many times the kids go in to play while I am cooking dinner and then they get called to come eat. That doesn't give them time to pick up what they were playing with so then after dinner, everyone has chores and the room keeps getting put off. Make sure to stick in time somewhere to pick up their room.

5.Corkboard on the Wall.
This way all the artwork and papers are in one area. Make sure there are tacks(that stay on the cork-board), and let them hang up their papers out of the way, but where they are seen by everyone. This keeps it off the floor but where they can be proud of it.

6.Display Shelves.
We like to use display shelves for the things they want to be noticed. Maybe they put together a model, or something like that, and they don't want it ruined by putting it in a bin? Well, this is the way to do it! And it keeps it neat:)

7.Clean Out Unwanted Toys.
If you notice a toy has not been used for a while, take it out of the room. I have also found that it is best to do this quietly or that child is somehow going to figure out a way to talk you into keeping the toy:D

8.Clean Out Day.
Normally during the Spring, we go in and clean out the items that are no longer being used but also the ones that the kids are outgrowing. Maybe your child is 7 and no longer plays with the little plastic toys anymore? We found that they often had little toys that they had outgrown, but were still cluttering up the room.

9.Use Hooks on the Wall.
This is helpful for the hats, clothing, costumes, etc. Sure you could hang them up in the closet, but this way you have more room in the closet, as well as it is easier for the children to hang them up.

10.Use Bookcases and Racks.
In our household, books are all over. We have bookcases in the living room, the bedrooms and the playroom. We couldn't live without them:) Make sure you have them for your childs room and let them decorate or put toys on some of the shelves. This always helps to keep a room neater. We also have some of those metal racks that are best for DVD's and CD's.

So those are my tips. Hopefully they can be of some help to you. Please leave a comment below if you have some other ones for me:)

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Hot Wheels® blogging program, for a gift card worth $40. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

Dining Dash Blog Hop

Hi everyone,
I have gotten together with 4 other bloggers in hosting a really fun giveaway. Each of us will be hosting a giveaway for a gift card to a restaurant that we like. I will be giving away a gift card to Dunkin' Donut's and the others have,

Longhorn Gift Card-At The Fence
Steak and Shake-Hope's Cafe
Coldstone Creamery-PI Of Products
Burger King-In My Opinion

You can get your entries in below and it is very easy to enter. So have fun and do as many as you can:)


Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Fun Plumbing Repairs

Howdy friends and neighbors. I don't know about you, but sometimes living in a house where you have to do the repairs, just gets plain horrible. We have recently been having a lot of trouble with our plumbing. And plumbing repair is just a pain:( We had some problems with our kitchen sink but now we have an even bigger area.

Our major problem is the bathroom tub. We have another shower but that one is just a shower and no tub. Now I am not the type of person that has to bathe every day. I prefer to shower anyways. But there are others in our family that can't go without a bath every single day! And do you know how grumpy they get when they can't bathe? It is not nice:D Seriously though, it started backing up and we figured it was just something small, like hair that had gotten stuck in the drain. With 6 ladies you can get a lot of hair in the drain:) But we tried plunging it and that didn't fix it. We have now bought a liquid drain remover to see if that will work. Showering is a bit of a problem as the water starts to fill the tub. And it slowly drains but definitely not as fast as it should be. Hopefully now this will fix it, otherwise we are going to have to check out the pipes below the tub. And I am not in the mood to do that:D

I am participating in a blogger campaign for Bucks2Blog about plumbing
repair and was compensated. However, the views and opinions are my own.

The Captive Trail CFBA Blog Tour

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Captive Trail
Moody Publishers (September 1, 2011)
by
Susan Page Davis




ABOUT THE AUTHOR:





From Susan: I've always loved reading, history, and horses. These things come together in several of my historical books. My young adult novel, Sarah's Long Ride, also spotlights horses and the rugged sport of endurance riding, as does the contemporary romance Trail to Justice. I took a vocational course in horseshoeing after earning a bachelor's degree in history. I don't shoe horses anymore, but the experience has come in handy in writing my books.



Another longtime hobby of mine is genealogy, which has led me down many fascinating paths. I'm proud to be a DAR member! Some of Jim's and my quirkier ancestors have inspired fictional characters.



For many years I worked for the Central Maine Morning Sentinel as a freelancer, covering local government, school board meetings, business news, fires, auto accidents, and other local events, including a murder trial. I've also written many profiles and features for the newspaper and its special sections. This experience was a great help in developing fictional characters and writing realistic scenes. I also published nonfiction articles in several magazines and had several short stories appear in Woman's World, Grit, and Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine.



My husband, Jim, and I moved to his birth state, Oregon, for a while after we were married, but decided to move back to Maine and be near my family. We're so glad we did. It allowed our six children to grow up feeling close to their cousins and grandparents, and some of Jim's family have even moved to Maine!



Our children are all home-schooled. The two youngest are still learning at home. Jim recently retired from his vocation as an editor at a daily newspaper, and we’ve moved from Maine to Kentucky.





ABOUT THE BOOK



Captive Trail is second in a six-book series about four generations of the Morgan family living, fighting, and thriving amidst a turbulent Texas history spanning from 1845 to 1896. Although a series, each book can be read on its own.



Taabe Waipu has run away from her Comanche village and is fleeing south in Texas on a horse she stole from a dowry left outside her family’s teepee. The horse has an accident and she is left on foot, injured and exhausted. She staggers onto a road near Fort Chadbourne and collapses.



On one of the first runs through Texas, Butterfield Overland Mail Company driver Ned Bright carries two Ursuline nuns returning to their mission station. They come across a woman who is nearly dead from exposure and dehydration and take her to the mission.



With some detective work, Ned discovers Taabe Waipu identity. He plans to unite her with her family, but the Comanche have other ideas, and the two end up defending the mission station. Through Taabe and Ned we learn the true meaning of healing and restoration amid seemingly powerless situations.



If you would like to read the first chapter of Captive Trail, go HERE.

MY THOUGHTS-I am a big fan of Susan Davis' writing but this book seemed like it was going to be a different genre almost. So I wasn't sure how I would like it or if it would be as good as her previous ones. I had no reasons to worry!! Yes, it is different than her normal style of writing, but it is in a league all it's own.

I personally loved the history included in this book. I can't wait to get the next books to see how everything ends and what happens. I know this series is following the history of Texas, but it spans many generations so I am really loving this one:) And even though this is a series, I would definitely suggest reading it as a stand-alone novel. Wonderful plot and excellent characters!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation.

Dr.'s Remedy Nail Polish Review + Giveaway!

I don't know if you remember my beauty event, but during this event I was able to review and giveaway some really nice nail polish. Well, Dr.'s Remedy Nail polish was soo nice and sent me some of their other colors for review!! Now, I am not going to wear some of these, they just are not my shade:) So I am going to be giving away 2 of these. One winner will receive both colors! Read below to see what I think about these new colors from Dr.'s Remedy!

I received 5 colors for my review. The Lovely Lavender, Nurture Nude Pink, Bold Baby Blue, Glee Gold, and Tranquil Tangerine. My absolute favorite out of them all is the Bold Baby Blue. I thought I would prefer the Lavender but after putting them on, I liked the Blue. It is a very baby blue:) Has some sparkle and glitter to it. The two colors I will not be using are the Tangerine and Gold. I am the type of person who does not like real bold colors like these:) If you are the bold, in your face type of person, get your entries in below for the giveaway! LOL! I am just kidding, kind of;) These are just really bold colors. I have not used these at all and did not open them at all. And they are normally $17 each:)

The Nurture Nude Pink is definitely one I will be wearing, just not as an everyday. It is almost too pale and I have a hard time even noticing that it is on. It is something that I could wear if I want just a touch of shine to my nails, but not a lot of color. The Lavender is nice, just not my shade. It is a very pretty purple that is not real bright. Just a little different for me. I will be wearing this for days I am in a funky mood:)

Readers, one winner will receive both the Glee Gold and the Tranquil Tangerine. These are unopened and never used.


MANDATORY ENTRY-
Head over to the Dr.'s Remedy store and look around. Then come back and comment with another color you would like to try. This must be done and it cannot be one I listed above. Please leave an email in one of your comments so I can reach you if you are the winner.

US ONLY AS I AM SHIPPING.

EXTRA ENTRIES!!

1.Blog or post about this on Facebook. Get 3 entries for each.
2.Follow my blog via GFC, subscribe through RSS Feed or email or follow me on Twitter. Get one entry for each you do.
3.Enter any of my other currently running giveaways. Let me know which ones.
4.Leave a comment on any of my review only posts. This must be for reviews only! Leave a comment for each.
5.Tweet about this giveaway. Can be done three times a day.

6.Like Dr.'s Remedy on Facebook. Get 3 entries for this so leave 3 comments.

This giveaway will end 10/11. Winner will be chosen through Random.org and they will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.
I received product for review purposes and I am hosting the giveaway on my own.

Monday, September 26, 2011

Atlanta Visit

Thanks for the guest post by Jo Levy

My cousin had moved to Atlanta with his wife years ago. They lived there way before they had two daughters. However, I had yet to visit them. Since it was not even a four-hour drive from where I lived, I decided that it was finally time for a visit. They had grown out of their Buckhead condo long ago, but had just now bought a new home in the suburbs. He gave me directions to their new house, which was located in one of those neighborhoods where all of the houses looked confusingly similar. He noted that there would be a Atlanta Home Security truck in the driveway so I had an extra point of reference. I basically grew up with my cousin, but we had drifted apart, which tends to happen as you get older and busier. He worked for the bank and his wife stayed at homewith their two girls. I looked forward to catching up with them and getting to know their kids. It was still so strange to see my bratty older cousin as a mature adult and father!

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Blog Tour for Deadly Pursuit by Irene Hannon


A stalker with deadly intent . . .
A woman who protects children . . .
An ex-Navy SEAL turned police detective.

Social worker Alison Taylor has a passion for protecting children. But now it seems she needs protecting. When her tormentor's attentions take a violent turn, she calls in reinforcements--her police-detective brother, Cole, and his new partner, ex-Navy SEAL Mitch Morgan. As her relentless stalker turns up the heat and the danger intensifies, Mitch takes a personal interest in the case. Because protecting Alison has become more than a job; his future depends on keeping her safe.

Filled with nail-biting suspense and heart-melting romance, Deadly Pursuit is Irene Hannon's storytelling at its very best.


MY REVIEW-I have read every one of Irene Hannon's regular novels. I have loved all of them! Except the last book I reviewed. Which happens to be the first one in this series. So I was unsure of how I would like this one. Let me say, my faith has been restored and I am fully in love with her books again:)

The last book just seemed to have the same plot as one of her previous books. This one was very different and kept me fully riveted to the book until I was done. Great plot, excellent cast of characters that kept you rooting for them. I personally loved Alison. She is a woman of strength and character. If you have read the previous book, you will know many of the people in this one. Cole just happens to be Alison's brother:) I have to tell you, I am a sucker for a man like Mitch. I mean, what could there not be to like? Ex-Navy Seal, great character, wonderful strength, etc. The suspense is wonderfully done and like I said, I read through until I was done. Great pull and excellent opening lines! Way to go Irene!!

Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.
I received a copy of this book for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation.

Friday, September 23, 2011

How To Prepare Your Nursery for Your New Ones Arrival.

Wow! This is a wonderful week to be a member of Social Moms. If you are not a member, I seriously urge you to join their group. They have a great group and lots of tips for new mothers, awesome support, etc. And not to mention the wonderful writing opportunities they have available every so often. This time they have joined up with Seventh Generation and your new little ones arrival. What do you need to do to get your nursery ready for the new baby? Are there certain tips for their arrival? I am going to give ten below that I have found very helpful. If you have any, please leave them below.

Also, just to let you know, Seventh Generation offers Free & Clear baby-care products that include diapers, wipes and baby liquid laundry detergent. Seventh Generation Free & Clear diapers are free of chlorine, latex, fragrances and petroleum-based lotions and come in a range of sizes from newborn to stage 6. Moms who have used them on their babies report that the diapers are soft to the touch and have exceptional absorbency. And gentle as its diapers, Seventh Generation’s soft, cloth-like Free & Clear Baby Wipes are free of alcohol, synthetic dyes and fragrances and whitened without chemicals containing chlorine.

1.Baby-Proof Your House.
This is more in preparation for when your little one gets a bit older, but it helps to do it when they first come home. Make sure all sharp objects are out of reach, cleaners and anything harmful are up on top shelves or in locked cabinets, etc. This is almost like bringing home a new puppy:D JK! But you seriously have to make sure they can't get into anything. This is absolutely top priority.

2.Have a Car Seat and Crib Ready.
This is one of those no-brainers, but you would be amazed at how many people don't have things like this ready. Make sure your car seat is up to the standards set down by the law, buckled in the right positions, etc. Have a crib that is easy to get to but the baby can't get out of. Also make sure no pets can get into it. We had a cat that used to like jumping in the playpen. Not good for the little one:)

3.Make Sure the House is Comfortable.
When you first come home, you are going to be worn out. Have the house comfortable, especially for the little one. The temperature is a priority at that age. Keep the pets locked up or outside at first. Try to have a time of quiet at first.

4.Prepare Other Children.
If you have other children in the house, make sure they are ready for the new one. Sometimes children are funny in that they don't want another young one coming into the house. They get jealous and feel like mommy is no longer just theirs. Other children are just fine with being big brother or sister. Sit them down and talk before hand so they are prepared.

5.Good for the Baby Products.
There are a lot of new products on the market that are good for young ones. Try to get the ones without all the harsh chemicals and nasty stuff. Much better for you and the baby.

6.Have Plenty of Clothing, etc.
Your little one is going to go through a lot of clothing at first. They puke, spit, dribble, leak, etc. Make sure to have plenty of extra clothing handy.

7.Stock Up On Diapers.
This is not just because of the Seventh Generation diapers, but this is a must have. Make sure you have a good amount but remember, babies grow fast, so don't get too many diapers.

8.Diaper Bag Ready.
Have a diaper bag filled with the important products you will need. Baby lotion, wipes, diapers, change of clothing, etc. You never know when you will need it.

9.Have Important Info Readily Available.
Make sure that emergency numbers are easily found. The doctor's info, etc. Mark any allergies or need-to-know info in the same area. If something came up, others need to be able to find this.

10. Have Fun.
Remember to take time for your baby. Those first couple weeks are very important and special. You will never get that back. Spend time talking to your little one, have a rocker ready, etc.

Hopefully this has given you some tips. I also encourage you to leave some for me.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Seventh Generation blogging program, for a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

Interview w/Judy Christie + Rally Round Green Review + Giveaway!!

Hey everyone! I recently had the opportunity to interview a well-known author, Judy Christie, and review her new book, Rally Round Green. I am telling you, this is a humorous book you won't want to miss:) And, one of my readers will get the chance at winning their very own copy! So read through the interview, browse my review, and then get your entries in below.

INTERVIEW WITH JUDY CHRISTIE-
How long have you known you wanted to be an author?
Since my first visit to the bookmobile in elementary school. I have always loved putting words together. I've kept a journal since I was nine and still have all of them. I was the editor of The Barret Banner in fifth grade.

Can you tell me a little bit about your newest book?
"Rally 'Round Green" is the 4th book in the Green series about a big-city journalist who winds up running a small-town newspaper. Lois Barker Craig changes the town of Green, and the town changes her. In "Rally 'Round Green," Lois and crew fight to keep their school open, knowing it's vital to the future of the town. And, of course, there are lots of friends and foes poking their noses into Lois's business.

When a reader gets done with your book, what do you want them to come away with?
One of the things I love about fiction is that each person comes away with something different, depending on where he or she is in life. I do hope that my books encourage and entertain and help readers pause to think about enjoying each day more.


Is there a place you have always wanted to visit? A vacation spot, historical monument, overseas, etc?
Ireland and Iceland! My husband and I love to travel, and we've taken some great trips, such as a cruise on the Amazon River (when it was winter there). We like to visit cool climates, since we live in steamy Louisiana. I'd love to see the northern lights.

If you could have dinner with 2 people, who would they be?
Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen.


What one event would you love to be at? Historical or future?
Future: Total solar eclipse in Australia in November 2012. I'm married to a middle-school science teacher, and I think this would be thrilling.


Do you have a favorite hobby?
Antiquing. I am a fan of primitive antiques, preferably with peeling green paint. I love gigantic outdoors flea markets and taking day trips to antique shops with girlfriends. I recently bought the world's heaviest old birdbath for $30 at a roadside antiques store between Texarkana and Queen City, Texas.


Is there something about you most people wouldn't know?
I ran two marathons (26.2 miles) after age 40 ... and I'm about the most non-athletic person you'd ever meet. I once got a black-eye playing putt-putt golf.

Do you have any suggestions for the aspiring writer?
Sit down and write. Keep a notebook with you at all times and jot down ideas. Go to a writers' conference to meet agents, editors and other writers. Dream big!


Any last thoughts for your readers?
Slow down and enjoy each day more. Don't rush and fret so much that life slips by. Have more fun.

And how can they connect with you?
I love to visit with readers! They can reach me through my website at www.judychristie.com or on Facebook or on Twitter @judypchristie. I enjoy Skyping and having conference calls with book clubs. I lead church retreats and workshops and am happy to consider all invitations.


MY BOOK REVIEW-
This is a quaint and humorous book. It is my first read from Judy so I did not realize that her books were soo funny, yet this one has a depth to it throughout all the humor. The small town really hit home with me because I live in one:) The town's battle for the school and the different reasons why were very interesting. If you like a book that is not too deep, but still has some bite to it, this is your book!


MANDATORY ENTRY-
Readers, Judy said that she would love to visit Iceland or Ireland. I have to tell you, Ireland is on my list:) But for your entry in this giveaway, tell me what place, outside the US, that you would like to visit. It can be totally off the wall or a place you really want to go to. Please leave your email in at least one of the comments.

US ONLY!!

EXTRA ENTRIES!!

1.Blog or post about this on Facebook. Get 3 entries for each.
2.Follow my blog via GFC, subscribe through RSS Feed or email or follow me on Twitter. Get one entry for each you do.
3.Enter any of my other currently running giveaways. Let me know which ones.
4.Leave a comment on any of my review only posts. This must be for reviews only! Leave a comment for each.
5.Tweet about this giveaway. Can be done three times a day.




This giveaway will end 10/7. Winner will be chosen through Random.org and they will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.
I received a copy of this book for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation.

Thursday, September 22, 2011

A Bride's Portrait of Dodge City Kansas Book Review

I received this book last month and have just been so busy that I didn't get to it. But I was able to pick it up yesterday and let me tell you, I raced through it! Erica Vestch does an excellent job on A Bride's Portrait of Dodge City, Kansas and I stayed up late to finish it:)

Quench your craving for good fiction with this wonderfully written Old West adventure. Hoping to leave the shadows of her shady yesteryears behind, Adeline Reed is focusing on her photography career. But when her ex-boyfriend?s compatriot in crime shows up in Dodge City her entire past is threatened by exposure. Can Addie keep her secrets while helping to catch a killer? Deputy Miles Carr?s investigation into a shopkeeper?s murder leads him to Addie?s door. Will his attraction to this female photographer keep him from catching the true culprit? Or will Addie lead him off course in more ways than one?

MY REVIEW-I had previously read some of Erica's works. She is known for her Heartsong titles and I have also reviewed Idaho Brides, which I thought was an excellent book. But you know how many times an author does good in one area but then they change their genre or their length of novel, and the book just doesn't seem as good? Well, that is what I was afraid of with this. Erica has written several books that I loved but they were all small books. I wasn't sure how this longer length novel would be. But I had no reason to be worried at all! I absolutely loved this story!

My favorite character was Addie. At first I kind of had a problem with her hiding her past but then I saw why she did that. I kind of put myself in her shoes and felt how she felt. Miles was a great male character! He was kind, gentle and yet strong. He also has guilt over his past. I wish he had been more outspoken about his Christianity with his co-workers but I know where he is coming from. At times it is hard for me to say things or to speak up. I greatly respected Jonas. He was on my top list as well. Let me just say that they were all on my top list:D But Jonas went from low down to almost my favorite. I know Miles is supposed to be the main male character but Jonas almost upped him. He is soo sweet:)

Vin Rutter about made me want to slap him. He is a snake that uses anyone in his way to get what he wants. The killer was somewhat of a surprise. I was kind of going back and forth on who did it so not only is this a great historical book, but it has a good amount of mystery as well. One thing I liked was the history with Bat Masterson. Yes this is fiction, but I had my interest piqued so I will be doing some history on him. The talk about photography was interesting. Addie does portraits and I had to laugh at the one part where a cowboy is trying to get his horse in the studio:D

Overall this is an excellent book that will be on my bookshelf:) It was a keeper! A sweet historical with mystery thrown in. Loved the characters and the plot was great! I couldn't find anything to say against this book;) Great job, Erica!!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation. All thoughts are 100% mine.

A Lancaster County Christmas by Suzanne Fisher.

This book is a little bit early, but I loved reading it:) Didn't quite feel like Christmas time yet. But I will be pulling this book out again when it is snowing out and I am sipping a cup of coffee. It is just that type of book.

Jaime and C. J. Fitzpatrick began their married life as most couples do--in love and looking forward to a bright future together. But four years later they've drifted apart and are almost ready to call it quits.

Mattie Riehl was hoping to give her husband Sol the Christmas gift they have both longed for--news that a baby was on the way. But as usual, she is disappointed. The holidays bring an acute awareness to Mattie that her dream of a big family isn't likely to become a reality.

Then a winter storm raging outside blows the Fitzpatricks into the Riehl home--and into a much slower pace of life. Can these two couples from different worlds help each other understand the true meaning of love this Christmas?

With her trademark plot twists and attention to detail, Suzanne Woods Fisher offers readers a beautiful Christmas story of love, forgiveness, and what truly matters in life.

MY REVIEW-Suzanne Fisher does a great job pulling the reader into the story. I am not a big fan of Amish style books but this one kept me glued to the pages until I was done with it. This is not a light-hearted book. It is quite a tear jerker, yet it leaves you smiling and feeling happy. Not quite sure how to say it, but I did love this book!

My favorite character in the whole book was Mattie. I loved her attitude in life and how she and Sol go together. They have their difficulties and troubles, but overall they make a great couple. I had a harder time with the Fitzpatricks. They were nice but didn't pull at me the same way the Riehls did. The scenery was beautiful and I felt like I was in Lancaster County:) Overall a good book that would make a great gift for the holidays!!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation.

Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

My Family Time Playing Outdoors.

Howdy all! It has been a week or so since I have gotten a writing opportunity through Social Moms. So I was wondering what the next one would be. And I have to tell you, I am behind this one, one hundred percent! The Worldwide Day of Play is a program focusing on shutting off the TV for that day and getting outside with your children. You can sign up for the Clorox Play2Day and pledge to spend timeout of doors playing! I am totally for this one:)

One of my resolutions earlier this year, hard to believe that the year is half gone already, was to get outside more and spend quality time out of doors. I would like to think I have done pretty good at this. We have set up several things recently that have become really fun to do and it helps get the family moving outside. Volleyball is one of our favorites and it is a wonderful way to incorporate healthy exercise into our daily life. With all the jumping and running we do, I sure hope we are burning calories when we spend an hour out there on the field;)

One of my favorite things though is spending time gardening and planting the flowers. Not everyone likes to get in on this but the little girls love it. I have several rose bushes and the girls have a small garden that they take care of. The ten year old is so excited that she has been able to get vegetables and we have been using them in our food. I am really happy about the time being spent outside and the responsibilities that come with this job. She has done an excellent job, being faithful at watering and pruning, and she gets the reward of her vegetables.

Another exercise we have done recently is playing basketball up at the local park. It is not big by any means:) But it gives some time of fun and we enjoy going up to the outside court to play. One of our favorite games to play is Horse and regular ball. It just can't get too rough:) HORSE is a favorite of the little girls and the 14 year old has gotten really good at it.

So what about you? Do you have a favorite outside game to play with your family? Do you like to spend time outdoors? Or are you an inside person? I would really urge those of you who are reading this to sign up for the Clorox2 Play 2Day Pledge. It is a great way to get your children outside and away from the television.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Clorox2® blogging program, for a gift card worth $40. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

Minus 417 Nail Care Set Giveaway!

Minus417 is the lowest point on Earth and situated at 1,373 ft (-417 meters) below sea level, where time stands still. -Minus417 specializes in combining ancient knowledge with high technology. Their products are based on an optimal balance between the components’ proportions and their cosmetic effects. These products present a unique cosmetic development, the Vitamin Mineral Complex, a scientific combination of natural active components, like moisture-balancing select minerals from the Dead Sea, energizing anti oxidant vitamins and unique plant extracts from France , designed to assist in regenerating skin cells and preventing aging signs. All –Minus417 products are paraben and mineral oil free. For the first time ever they are now available to American consumers.

PROFESSIONAL NAIL CARE KIT


KIT INCLUDES

· Nail buffer

· Nail file

· Cuticle oil (30 ml.)

· hand moisturizer (50 ml.)

· foot nourishing cream (50 ml.)

HAND MOISTURIZER

· Prevents dryness

· Nourishes your skin

· Maintains moisture levels

· Effective for All Skin Types

FOOT NOURISHING CREAM (50 ML)

· A relaxing and refreshing cream enriched with moisturizer, for softening dry and cracked soles.

· Helps relieve dryness.

· Leaves your feet feeling fresh and prevents unpleasant odors.

· Nourishes your skin

· Maintains moisture levels

· Effective for All Skin Types

Retail Price: $39.48

What is the uniqueness of the Vitamin Mineral Complex?

• Maintains the natural humidity of the skin by improving the mineral balance of the cells.

• Strengthens the natural protection of the skin.

• Delays skin aging by regenerating new skin cells.

• Improves body, face, skin texture, hair and scalp.

• Eases rheumatic pain in muscles and bones.

• Detoxifies, cleans skin thoroughly.

• Anti Allergen and suitable for sensitive skin care.

• Increases cell metabolism and activates enzymes.

ABOUT MINUS417.COM

417 Cosmetic Researches Dead Sea Ltd is a manufacturer and worldwide distributor. -417 was founded in 2003. Moty Fridman, the founder, CEO and share holder in the company is a business man and a sculptor born in Israel . -417 is the Developer of an Exclusive and Unique Collection of Skin-Care Products based on Natural Active components and select minerals from the lowest place in the world – the Dead Sea . -417 exclusive products are sold in the International market through the following distribution channels: department stores, perfumeries, cosmetic chains and leading spa and hotel facilities.

The -417 Brand offers a wide range of exclusive skincare products of high quality, based on The Vitamin Mineral Complex, a scientific combination of the rich minerals of the Dead Sea and natural active components as anti oxidant energizing vitamins and unique plant extracts, design to assist in regenerating skin cells and preventing aging signs. The products are based solely on natural active ingredients and do not contain any artificial preservatives such as Paraben and unfriendly components such as Mineral Oil.

-417 is changing the beauty level



MANDATORY ENTRY-
Readers, one of you will win one of these kits! To get your entry in, head over to Minus 417 and tell me another product you would be interested in. This must be done or the extra entries do not count. Please leave your email in one of the comments.

US ONLY!!

EXTRA ENTRIES!!

1.Blog or post about this on Facebook. Get 3 entries for each.
2.Follow my blog via GFC, subscribe through RSS Feed or email or follow me on Twitter. Get one entry for each you do.
3.Enter any of my other currently running giveaways. Let me know which ones.
4.Leave a comment on any of my review only posts. This must be for reviews only! Leave a comment for each.
5.Tweet about this giveaway. Can be done three times a day.



This giveaway will end 10/5. Winner will be chosen through Random.org and they will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

A Handy Dandy Review Place!

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of MyReviewsNow.net for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Have you ever gone searching for what someone thought about a product? Or maybe you bought an item and have had a problem with it, so you want to see if others had this problem? I know I have had this happen before. And do you know what happens when you go to find a review about a certain product? You often have to surf several pages to find out your answer! I normally have to go many pages in before I find what I am looking for. But, I recently found a nifty website that I think you all might find interesting. Especially if you have ever had the same problem I have:) They are also hosting a Facebook contest where the winner receives a $350 Kohls gift card!

myreviewsnow.net is a place where people can buy items, review products or places and for those of us who like to read about items before we buy, you can browse the reviews others have posted! This is a wonderful idea that I am glad has been used! Now when you want to find out if the toy really works or if it is annoying, check out the reviews. If you are wanting to purchase a new phone but don't know if it is the one for you, read up on what others are saying! I think this is a grand idea for a website.

Now, the contest is for a $350 Kohls gift card. You can read the official rules but basically all you have to do is: like myreviewsnow.net on Facebook and tweet the message "I love to #shopathome online!"

I can tell you, I am going to enter this contest! I love shopping at Kohls and they have wonderful deals:)  Of course, I can check out reviews on any items I am interested in buying on myreviewsnow.net.

Visit Sponsor's Site

A Heart Revealed by Julie Lessman Blog Tour

I have to admit, I have heard both good and bad things about this author. I have heard that Julie Lessman's books are too edgy to be called Christian, yet others claim the edgy is not really edgy, just a natural relationship between a couple. So I was kind of anxious to review this book. Would it be too edgy? Or would it be a good read that I would enjoy? I suggest you read below for my thoughts.

Ten years ago, Emma Malloy fled Dublin for Boston as a battered woman, escaping the husband who scarred her beautiful face. The physical and emotional wounds have faded with time, and her life is finally full of purpose and free from the pain of her past. But when she falls for her friend Charity's handsome and charming brother, Sean O'Connor, fear and shame threaten to destroy her. Could Sean and Emma ever have a future together? Or is Emma doomed to live out the rest of her life denying the only true love she's ever known?

Filled with intense passion and longing, deception and revelation, A Heart Revealed will hold readers in its grip until the very last page.

MY REVIEW-A Heart Revealed is actually part of a series but can be read alone. I would suggest reading up on the characters though as it could get confusing trying to figure out which woman is with what man:) I know a little bit about these books so I knew who most of the characters were. But I still got confused a couple times! LOL! There are a lot of people in these books:) One thing I have to say about them is they are really big. It is a nice sized book and this is not your normal read. Parts of it are funny while other parts are sooo deep it takes a while to really take it all in.

Sean is a likable guy but I have to say my favorite is still Luke. He is from the previous book, A Hope Undaunted, and him and Katie get married in the beg. of this one. Mitch and Charity are probably my favorite couple. Emma is one of my favorites but not my most favorite:) I often felt bad for her while reading this book but at the same time, she has a quiet strength that is often shown. Rory, her ex-husband, was quite the jerk and I wanted to slap him myself. You feel Emma's trust in Sean and then how it is ripped away. I felt badly because I know he didn't mean for it to happen, but at the same time, it is sooo hard for Emma to trust.

I feel like I do have to bring up, this is an edgy book. But there was nothing in it I felt was inappropriate. There are normal relationships between husbands and wives. And it is descriptive, but not to the point of wrong. I would not feel comfortable with a young teenager reading this book, but I totally enjoyed reading this book. The banter between the O'Conner siblings is lovely and humorous. And Charity is soo funny:) I really like her, even with her reputation.

Overall this is a book that I liked reading. It is funny yet very thought provoking at times. The family is very real and the characters have their good points and they still have their flaws. Great book, Julie!!

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation. All thoughts are 100% mine.
Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.

The Shunning DVD Review and Giveaway

Hi All! It has been a good but busy week. We took a trip to Louisville and it went well but a lot of late nights:) One thing we did was watch a film that just came out titled, The Shunning. This is based on the book by Beverly Lewis. It is an Amish movie and even though I am not a big fan of Amish things, I was interested in seeing this one. I have watched the film, The Saving of Sarah Cain and thought it was pretty good. Check out what I thought about it below and then get your entries in or a chance at your own copy of this DVD.

Before she succumbs to cancer, the dying wish of Laura Mayfield-Bennett is to be reunited with the daughter she never knew. Unfortunately, that daughter, Katie Lapp, is a member of the Amish order. Katie is about to be married, but uneasy about the path ahead. Now she discovers the secret her parents have kept from her: she's adopted.

The film is based on the celebrated first novel of the best-selling "The Heritage of Lancaster County" book series from author Beverly Lewis. Stars Danielle Panabaker & Sherry Stringfield.

MY REVIEW-Overall this was a good film. There was one part I especially did not care for and I will tell you about that later. But the overall message of the film was good. Katie is a beautiful young Amish woman who does not know that she was adopted. And in all reality she is an "Englischer."

I love the play of emotions in this film. Twice I was almost in tears but most of the film was a light-hearted movie. The scenery is beautiful and the Amish are well portrayed. I am not sure how I felt about Katie's parents keeping her past a secret. Yes she grew up thinking of them are her parents but at the same time, I would want to know if I was adopted. And you find out in the end something that was really different with this "adoption" but I don't want to spoil anything for you. This is a well done film and the acting was up to par. A good family movie.

Now, I didn't really want to bring this up but I felt that I had to. To me it was a somewhat doctrinal issue. In the film Katie sins by playing guitar and singing "Englisch" songs. Personally I know this is not right but that is how the Amish feel about this. But that is not the part I felt uncomfortable with. Katie is then told to go to the Bishop and confess her sin. At that point, he tells her that so long as she has repented, then her faith is restored. I don't know about you, but that sounds like he can give her salvation back to her. I just did not like that part at all. I am not sure if that is how the Amish do things but I will be looking this up.

If you like a tear jerker, this is your type of film. A coming of age story that is sweet and yet heart rending. You really feel for the whole family, along with her birth mother. Finding out about a young man in her past as well puts a new light on the story. If you want to see the trailer for the film, please go here.

Readers, if you are interested in winning your own copy of this film, please follow instructions below. Thanks!!

US ONLY!!

MANDATORY ENTRY-
Tell me who this would be for, whether your family or a friend. Please leave your email in one of the comments.


EXTRA ENTRIES!!

1.Blog or post about this on Facebook. Get 3 entries for each.
2.Follow my blog via GFC, subscribe through RSS Feed or email or follow me on Twitter. Get one entry for each you do.
3.Enter any of my other currently running giveaways. Let me know which ones.
4.Leave a comment on any of my review only posts. This must be for reviews only! Leave a comment for each.
5.Tweet about this giveaway. Can be done three times a day. Please use the tag @LovinScoopful

6.Like The Shunning on Facebook. Get 3 entries for this so leave 3 comments.


This giveaway will end 10/4. Winner will be chosen through Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.
I received a complimentary copy of this film for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation. All thoughts are 100% mine.

Monday, September 19, 2011

Lovin' Scoopful Ice Cream Coupon Giveaway!

It is that time again:) Another Lovin' Scoopful Ice Cream giveaway. This is for a coupon that you will receive in the mail, from me, for a free carton. The Lovin' Scoopful is a light ice cream that has soo many delicious flavors! I really wish they were available around me but I guess it is good for you all:)

The flavors really sound soo good. My mother has found out recently that she is diabetic and I wish these were in my local WalMart as she can eat these. The carbs are pretty good for what you get. So if you are trying to eat healthier and lighter, I would suggest looking for these at your local store. If they do not carry them, there is a form you can fill out and bring in to your store manager. Maybe they will start carrying them?

So enter below for a coupon. This entitles you to one free carton of Lovin' Scoopfuls Ice Cream. Just complete the mandatory entry and you have a chance at it! Also, remember that I will be having this giveaway all month. Every Monday will start another giveaway so come back to enter! Also, you can only win one of these a month. So if you win the second one, you cannot win the others. This only applies to the ice cream giveaway. There will be a different entry each time.

MANDATORY ENTRY-
Go to Lovin' Scoopfuls and let me know a flavor you want to try. This must be done or the extra entries do not count. You must leave your email in one of the comments.

US ONLY!!

EXTRA ENTRIES!!

1.Blog or post about this on Facebook. Get 3 entries for each.
2.Follow my blog via GFC, subscribe through RSS Feed or email or follow me on Twitter. Get one entry for each you do.
3.Enter any of my other currently running giveaways. Let me know which ones.
4.Leave a comment on any of my review only posts. This must be for reviews only! Leave a comment for each.
5.Tweet about this giveaway. Can be done three times a day. Please use the tag @LovinScoopful

6.Like Lovin' Scoopful on Facebook. Get 3 entries for this so leave 3 comments.
7.Follow Lovin' Scoopful on Twitter. Get 2 entries for this.


This giveaway will end 9/29. Winner will be chosen through Random.org and they will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.
Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...