Friday, February 28, 2014

“The Thief” Kindle Fire Giveaway from @StephLandsem!

A Roman centurion longing for peace and a Jewish woman hiding a deadly secret witness a miracle that transforms their lives and leads them to the foot of the cross.

Longinus is a Roman centurion haunted by death and failure. Desperate to escape the accursed Judean province, he accepts a wager. If he can catch the thieves harassing the marketplace before Passover, he’ll earn a transfer away from the troublemaking Jews.
Nissa is a Jewish woman with a sharp tongue and no hope of marriage. Only with the help of Mouse, the best thief in Jerusalem, can she keep her blind brother, Cedron, fed and a roof over their heads.
When a controversial teacher miraculously heals Cedron, Longinus longs to learn more about the mysterious healer. Instead, his journey leads him to Nissa, whose secret will determine the course of both their futures.
Unexpectedly caught up in the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus, they wonder who this teacher is who heals others but does nothing to save himself. Is the mercy he offers in his teachings real, or just another false promise? Can Nissa and Longinus overcome their pasts to find a future free of their shackles?
The Thief is an evocative story of two people trapped in their circumstances and the life-changing power of forgiveness and love.

MY THOUGHTS-I wasn't sure how well I would like this book when it came in. I am not a real big fan of books written in Bible times because they often take liberties and add to the details. But I am always game to try a new author to me so when this one popped up I decided to go for it. And boy am I glad I did!! Now to go back and find the first book in the series:)

There were several parts in the book that made me sit up and take notice. First off the detail and scenery is just breathtaking. Stephanie has quite the flair for detail and you feel like you know these people and you might even hear the sounds or taste the figs. And one of my favorite parts has to be the scene where Jesus cures Cedron of his blindness. Cedron has such a faith in Him and when it happens, wow! You just get chills. We may not know much about the people that Jesus healed, but I think Stephanie gives us a glimpse as she writes this.

Another part that really clicked with me, and I think it will with everyone who reads this book, is closer to the end. Dismas(one of the thieves who dies beside Jesus) had once told Mouse that no one was worth dying for. And yet, at the end, we see him dying for someone. This point had tears streaming from my eyes. Nissa is at the cross and finally realizes who Jesus really is. Again, another point that is shown so well in the story. This was an excellent book that I really liked. Can't wait to see what Stephanie has for her readers next!!



CONTEST INFORMATION!!

thiefbloggerbuttonDon't miss Stephanie Landsem's outstanding sophomore effort, The Thief.



Best-selling author Tosca Lee had this to say of the book: Filled with memorable characters, The Thief is a tale of hopelessness turned to hope, of high stakes made higher, and ultimate love. What happens when a character at the lowest rung of society crosses paths with the most well-known figure in history? The story of The Thief. I couldn't stop reading.



Stephanie is hosting a Kindle Fire HDX and book giveaway at her website.

CLICK THE BUTTON to find out more and enter to win.



Find out what readers are saying HERE. (Click the REVIEWS bar.)



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

My #Review of Cara Putnam's Book Shadowed by Grace

She found peace in a time of war.

Desperate to save her dying mother, an American woman accepts her newspaper’s assignment to travel to Italy where she takes photographs dangerously close to the front lines during World War II. But Rachel’s real motive in this journey is to find the father she never knew, an artist she hopes can offer the comfort and support both she and her mother need to survive at such a desperate time.
In her quest, Rachel becomes involved with what will become the Monuments Men effort to save great monuments and works of art from the Third Reich. Soon enough she will find more than she ever imagined—in war, in love, and in God.


MY THOUGHTS-




**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Thursday, February 27, 2014

Finding the Right Auto Parts in Junk Yards

When it comes to finding auto parts, you can easily be out hundreds of dollars for a new part. A great solution for your troubles is to visit junk yards in Florida. They have a number of vehicles that likely have the part you need. These used car parts can cost 75% less than a new part, allowing you to get your car back up and running again. 


Visiting a Junk Yard

As you enter the junk yard, you will be asked to sign a liability form. This form states that the junk yard is not liable for damages if you do become injured on the property. You need to make sure you are adhering to their safety requirements so you don’t end up in danger. It is important to bring a good pair of gloves with you and a set of tools to help you get the part out of the car. Safety gear is a necessity as there are several hazards at a junk yard.

Finding the Part

Call before you visit the junk yard to find out if they already have your part on a shelf. Junk yards are organized, and many of them will pull parts from cars to sell on the shelves. This makes it easier for people looking for a part, and it helps to prevent injuries to customers. If they haven’t pulled the part, find out if they have the vehicle make and model in stock. This will help you to obtain the right part you need for your car to work properly.

Selling a Car

If you have an old car to get rid of, talk to the junk yard about selling it. A number of junk yardsin Florida will gladly pay cash for old cars. Certain vehicle makes and models will fetch a higher price due to the popularity of the parts. Other junk yards only deal with certain car types, like foreign cars. It is important to call around to find out which junk will give you the best deal. Most junk yards will even come out to your home and pick up your old car for you. 



This is a sponsored post from Bucks2Blog for the enjoyment of my readers.


**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

CFBA Tour for The Ether: Vero Rising by Laurice E. Molinari




This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

The Ether: Vero Rising

Zonderkidz (February 4, 2014)


by

Laurice E. Molinari


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:




Laurice Elehwany Molinari, a veteran film and TV writer in Hollywood for over two decades, has penned over thirty scripts for various studios and networks.  Her very first feature script, written while a fellow at the American Film Institute, became Columbia Picture’s critically acclaimed children’s classic, My Girl.  She went on to pen The Brady Bunch Movie and The Amazing Panda Adventure. Laurice lives with her husband and two children in Los Angeles, the City of Angels, where her lifelong love for our heavenly guardians inspired her to write a book about them in the ETHER series.


ABOUT THE BOOK



The Fiercest of Warriors? Vero Leland always suspected he was different from others his own age, ever since his childhood attempts to fly. But he never could have predicted the truth---or how much his life was about to change. Soon after his twelfth birthday, Vero learns he is a guardian angel and is abruptly transported to the Ether, the spiritual realm that surrounds the earth. Yet before he can be counted among these fierce warriors, Vero must learn to master his growing powers, competing with other angels-in- training and battling demonic creatures known as maltures as well as mythical creatures such as the leviathan. Until his instruction is complete, Vero needs to alternate between the Ether and his regular life. If he survives training and accepts his destiny---a destiny he did not choose---he must leave everything behind, including his family and the life he loves. Meanwhile, an evil is growing---the maltures are rising, and Vero appears to be their target.


Enjoy the book trailer:


If you'd like to read the first chapter of The Ether: Vero Rising, go HERE.








**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Monday, February 24, 2014

The Dream Dress by Janice Thompson Book #Review

Big dreams take big leaps of faith . . . but what if you trip on the way?


A lowly seamstress at a swanky bridal boutique, Gabi Delgado dreams of doing more than ripping out seams and fitting dresses to doe-eyed brides. She wants to see her own original dress designs gracing the young women of Texas. But when Jordan Singer, reporter for Texas Bride magazine, visits the shop to do a feature, Gabi is humbled in his influential--and unnervingly handsome--presence.

Convinced she'll never get her dreams off the ground now, Gabi needs lots of encouragement--especially from her friend Bella Neeley--to take a chance and start her business. And as she gets to know Jordan, she discovers that she may have to take a chance on love as well.

MY THOUGHTS-Janice Thompson is one of those authors you just love. Her books are interesting, funny but not slapstick comedy, and thoughtful without being corny. Okay, you will probably laugh hysterically at some things, but other parts will make you swoon or wipe your eyes with a hanky. The Dream Dress is part of the Weddings By Design Series and it would really help to read these in order. I have read them all, reviewed them all actually, and it was so fun to see previous characters and be able to catch up with them. At the beginning of each chapter is a quote from Fred Astair or Ginger Rogers or some other person. One of my favorite quotes in the book is the following found at the beg. of chapter 27. "I have no desire to prove anything by it. I have never used it as an outlet or a means of expressing myself. I just dance."

I have to say, my favorite part in the whole book is where Jordan proposes to Gabi. I am talking good enough to have the emotions swell and the tears flow. Beautiful and thoughtful, I double dog dare you to read it without tearing up. Jordan is the type of guy every girl dreams of marrying. But even more than being handsome and the money he is so sweet. Caring actions go a long way for a guy. And of course we can't forget Mimi and Daniel. We are talking cutest senior couple!! Daniel is a sweetheart:)

No matter what your type of book, this is one I would urge you to pick up. Yes it is modern and I prefer historicals or mysteries but one you can totally fall in love with. You did it again Janice!!




**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

CFBA Tour for A Sky Without Stars.




This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

A Sky Without Stars

Abingdon Press (February 18, 2014)

by

Linda S. Clare

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:




Linda S. Clare is an
award-winning author and coauthor of several books and has also
published many essays, stories, and poems in publications, including The
Christian Reader, The Denver Post
, and ThePhiladelphia Inquirer
. Her most recent book is ASky without Stars
, the newest release in Abingdon’s Quilts ofLove line. Born in Arizona, Linda and her husband now make their home
in Eugene, Oregon, where Linda has taught college-level creative
writing classes, and writes, edits, and mentors other writers. She also
is a frequent writing conference presenter, a church retreat leader,
and mom to four grown children and five wayward cats.



ABOUT THE BOOK



Frankie Chasing Bear is caught between cultures. She wants to raise her son Harold to revere his Lakota heritage, but she also thinks he will need to learn the white man’s ways to succeed. After the untimely death of her husband, Frankie joins the U.S. Government’s Relocation Program and moves to Arizona. There she begins sewing a Lakota Star pattern quilt for Harold with tribal wisdom sung, sewn, and prayed into it.
A bed without a quilt is like a sky without stars, but neither the quilt—nor her new life—comes easily to Frankie. Nick Vandergriff, for instance, is the last man Frankie wants to trust. He’s half-Lakota but Christian, and Frankie can see no good coming from that faith after her own parents were forced to convert at an Indian school. Can Nick convince Frankie that white men and Christians aren’t all bad? And will Frankie learn that love is the most important ingredient—for her son’s quilt and life itself?




If you would like to read the first chapter of A Sky Without Stars, go HERE.

MY THOUGHTS-This was a book I just could not get into. I guess it might have been because of the quilt parts and how I am not really into sewing or quilting. For someone who does quilt, you will probably really enjoy this. The plot was different and I liked Nick a lot! Good character development throughout the book.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Friday, February 14, 2014

Love's Sweet Beginning by Ann Shorey

What will it take for a once-privileged young woman to make her way in the world? 



It isn't Cassie Haddon's fault that she has reached the age of twenty-five without possessing any useful skills. Until the War Between the States, she always had servants. Since then, she and her mother have been forced to rely on family to care for them. But now the well of human kindness has run dry--and Cassie must find work to support them.

Unfortunately, leaving the past behind is easier said than done, and Cassie must summon all of her courage and wits to convince local restaurateur and grocer Jacob West that she's exactly what his business needs.

With her signature sweet romance, Ann Shorey weaves a tale of two people from different backgrounds finding common ground and the hope of a bright future together.

MY THOUGHTS-To start off with, I hated, well greatly disliked, the main character. Did that grab your attention? Ann Shorey did so with a heroine that makes you want to slap her. But, it doesn't stay that way. Cassie is a female who has her issues, maybe more than some of us, who slowly grows. And yes, I did end up liking her, it just took me a while:)

The author does an excellent job in shaping her characters. Like I said above, the heroine is kinda off-setting but it goes to show how well you can write a person out. Believe me, I mean this in the best of ways. For you to want to slap a character, even when you know they aren't real, that is good writing!! The scenery comes to life, the plot is a very sweet romance that makes for good reading on these winter days. Kinda has you dreaming about summer:) In reality, I enjoy books like these every once in a while to balance out the normal suspense novels I savor. An excellent book written by Ann Shorey!!



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product from Revell in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Three Reasons to Shop for Cell Phone Cases Online

The Internet is an excellent information source. It is also used to buy a wide range of products, including electronics and related accessories. Virtual shopping has increased substantially in recent years. The latest statistics are showing that the numbers are still going up. The reason for this incredible success is simple; consumers love the convenience and the tremendous amount of choices. The process is straightforward. Let’s say that you want a protective case for your Nokia, Samsung, or LG phone. Just search for online dealers. Popular sites like cellphonecases.com are included in the results. Shoppers find a suitable design, pay, and wait for the order to arrive. There are more benefits to online shopping, including the 3 following reasons.


1. No Need for Cash


Stores would go broke right after opening their doors if they gave products away for free. What the statement “no need for cash” means is that you can pay with credit card even for small amounts. Cell phone cases are very inexpensive. Some brick-and-mortar stores may refuse customers who do not have cash. They do not want to pay the exuberant fees banks charge businesses for electronic transactions.

2. Around-the-Clock Shopping


Some citizens work nights. When they get home, they just want to go to bed. The hours regular stores keep are inconvenient for a lot of people. By the time they hit the mall, the doors are closing. Even if they can sneak in half an hour before shops lock up, that may not be enough time to find the perfect cell phone case. When you purchase accessories on the Internet, you can shop any time you want. You do not even have to get out of your comfy pajamas. 

3. Unlimited Choices


If you have a specific style, color, or design in mind, you should be able to find it online. You just type more keywords into the search engine’s search field. Top accessory dealers have so many marvelous collections that you may find the right soft or hardcover case as soon as you enter the shop. Nonetheless, think about how many local stores you may have to visit on your day off before you found that perfect cover. By visiting several merchants, like cellphonecases.com, you may not only hit upon the right cover; you may also find the best deal.

This is a sponsored post from Bucks2Blog for the enjoyment of my readers.



**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Warner Bros. Valentines Day #Giveaway!

Hey everyone, I am sure you know what day it is tomorrow. Yep, Valentine's Day. In honor of that wonderful day, I have a giveaway for you all from Warner Bros. And because it is Valentine's Day here, we are talking about cartoon crushes. And one winner will receive a dvd from the following list. You will not be able to pick but it will be something from the list. So, take the quiz below, have some fun and find out your favorite cartoon crush:)

PRIZE WILL BE CHOSEN AT RANDOM FROM THIS LIST-
Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown Deluxe Edition 
A Charlie Brown Valentine 
Bugs Bunny’s Cupid Capers 
Happiness is... Peanuts: Friends Forever 
Elmo Loves You 
Looney Tunes Pepe Le Pew Collection 
Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: For The Love Of Snack

February is the one month of the year where everyone has love on their minds! It’s can be romantic, it can be love for your children or parents or you could just be a movie lover! Whatever you love, this February Warner Bros. has you covered with some amazing DVDs perfect for the whole family!
If you’re a love lorn poet, there’s the Peanuts Collection! If you want to smother your significant other with kisses we have the Looney Tunes Pepe Le Pew Collection, and if you want to solve some madcap mystery, I’ll bet Scooby-Doo is the one for you!





Giveaway will end 2/26 and winner will be chosen through Random.org. They will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. USA ONLY!!

How to Buy Tickets the Easy Way

Whether you’re into sports, concerts, or the theater, buying your tickets is easier than ever. The Internet is full of websites like Evolution Tickets that are designed to make the experience as easy as possible. This makes it possible for you to browse through available events and purchase tickets right from the comfort of your own home.


Find an Event

One of the biggest benefits of the Internet is that you can find a wider variety of events than anywhere else. This means that no matter what your interests are, you can find something for you. It’s easy to find concerts that are coming to your area. Or you can plan out a vacation in a different state. You’ll be able to plan what you see and even where your seats will be located. You can find directions to the venue and information on how to get there. Many websites also have links to restaurants, hotels and other attractions in the area. Once you pick out the perfect tickets, they will be sent to you by mail or through email. If your tickets are emailed to you, you have the advantage of having them in your hands right away. However, even tickets sent by “snail mail” will arrive in plenty of time for your event. In the case that the event is cancelled or rescheduled, you will be refunded for your purchase.

Look for Discounts


Buying your tickets online also makes it easy for you to find tickets at a reduced price. You can compare websites until you find the seats you want for the best price. Many websites also feature special offers that you might not know about. Search online for coupons and other discounts that apply to you. Then, when you buy your tickets from a company like Evolution Tickets, you can apply your discount and save money. A popular way to save money at events is by purchasing group tickets. Many events will give you significant discounts if you purchase ten or twenty tickets at the same time. This gives you a great excuse to get all your friends together and go have a good time!

This is a sponsored post from Bucks2Blog for the enjoyment of my readers. 



**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Rent Textbooks and Help Operation Smile?

Hey everyone!! It has been a cold, dreary winter here so far but at least the sun is out right now. Yes, it is 14 degrees outside, feels like 5, and completely sunny:) With several inches of snow on the ground. So definitely not the best of weather. But, this is also the time when you are thinking about textbooks and the fun of school. Half the year so far we have been shut down for school because of weather but it won't be that way for long. I know I have told you all about this program before but it is something worth sharing again. And I wanted to give some more details about the way they help through Operation Smile. Plus, they have a new RentBack program that I thought might be helpful. So check it out and see what I found worthwhile about CampusBookRentals
.


First off is their participation with Operation Smile. This group is well known for their aid to children suffering from facial deformities. Things like cleft lip, cleft palate, etc. The children who suffer from problems like this often don't have a chance. And that my friend is where Operation Smile steps in. They help these children with the surgeries and the healing afterwards. Definitely a group I would stand behind with how many children have benefited from them.


Now, Campus Book Rentals donates a certain percentage of each rental to Operation Smile. See why this is something I wanted to tell you all about again? Every book that is rented helps out this great program!! There is also a new little bit called RentBack. And you guessed it, students can rent their textbooks to other students. Which in turn helps that student make back some money that they have put out on books!!

Watch the little video clip below and find out more about RentBack!




**DISCLOSURE: All thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

CFBA Tour for Once Upon A Winter's Heart.




This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Once Upon a Winter's Heart

Center Street (January 7, 2014)


by

Melody Carlson


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:







Over the years, Melody Carlson has worn many hats, from pre-school teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor. But most of all, she loves to write! Currently she freelances from her home. In the past eight years, she has published over ninety books for children, teens, and adults--with sales totaling more than two million and many titles appearing on the ECPA Bestsellers List. Several of her books have been finalists for, and winners of, various writing awards.

She has two grown sons and lives in Central Oregon with her husband and chocolate lab retriever. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.


ABOUT THE BOOK



Emma Burcelli has suffered over a decade of dating disasters. But she concludes that love is officially dead when her grandfather Poppi suddenly passes, leaving her grandmother Nona devastated. To help out, Emma works in the family bookstore, which Nona insists must be decked out in sweetheart décor as Poppi would have done for Valentine's Day. Although she feels like a V-Day Scrooge, Emma quickly learns to enjoy the task with the help of a handsome family friend, Lane Forester, who shows her that hanging hearts is much more fun when done to the tune of Dean Martin. As Emma and Lane share time and memories of Poppi, she reconsiders the notion that romance is alive.




If you would like to read the first chapter of Once Upon a Winter's Heart, go HERE.





**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Monday, February 10, 2014

Blogging as a Part of the #CRMHBloggers

This is part of a sponsored collaboration with Crossroads Media Hub. However, all opinions expressed are my own.


Hey everyone, you all know how much I love my blogging. It is a pleasure to work with companies and brands I stand behind and to find new products that we may have never heard of. And one of the biggest pleasures for me is finding new authors and favorite books. But in the midst of all this, one aspect that is often missed is the blogging programs. Those ones that connect you with the company or the brand. So today I want to introduce to you, Crossroads Media Hub.

As a part of the Crossroads Media Hub program I get the opportunity to come together with brands and companies that I will then feature on my blog for all my readers. Yes, this is how I often find new products which I then show you:) And I may have the chance to feature and all new product that I haven't even heard of! This is one part that I really like about my blogging.

So readers, do any of you own a blog? Interested in joining the Crossroads Media Hub? Follow the links and make sure to sign up. You can also like the Crossroads Media Hub facebook page. You never know what you might receive as an opportunity. Could be a new brand you have never worked with before or maybe even a sponsored post. Hurry over and sign up today!



**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Saturday, February 8, 2014

Shadows of the Past By Patricia Bradley Book #Review

While she's stalking the truth . . . someone is stalking her.



Psychology professor and criminal profiler Taylor Martin prides herself on being able to solve any crime, except the one she wants most desperately to solve--the disappearance of her father twenty years ago. When she finally has a lead on his whereabouts, Taylor returns home to Logan Point, Mississippi, to investigate. But as she works to uncover the truth, someone else will do almost anything to keep her from it.

Nick Sinclair pens mystery novels for a living, but the biggest mystery to him is how he can ever get over the death of his wife--a tragedy he believes he could have prevented. Now that his estranged brother is the only family he has left, Nick sets out to find him. But when he crosses paths with Taylor, all he seems to find is trouble.

Join the chase as Taylor and Nick search the murky shadows of the past for the keys to unlocking the present--and moving into a future they never imagined.


MY THOUGHTS-Well, there is another author in the suspense/mystery genre that is worth watching out for. Shadows of the Past is a debut novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. Patricia Bradley pulls the reader in and just keeps reeling you along until you are fully enveloped in the story. The plot was very good and the characters were well written. My only difficulty was in how many there were. Kind of a lot to keep up with especially when you don't know who someone is. But, this was very minor and in no way kept me from reading the book. I even had some relatives trying to steal the book while I was in the middle of it:)

I did figure out who dun it before the end but this was so well written you want to figure out the why. I seriously finished this in one day and totally enjoyed it. If you like good heroes and heroines that are strong, you will like this one. And I can't wait for the next book in Logan Point! Might we read more about Livy and Mac? Or possibly Chase? Either way, it will be on my wish list:) Way to go Patricia!!



**DISCLOSURE: I received a copy of this book from Revell  in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Friday, February 7, 2014

Three Signs of Alcoholism and How to Help Victims

Social drinking is usually accepted. The situation is a bit different when people are at the bar every day. Their habit has turned into an ugly addiction, which may need to be treated at a facility like the Palm Beach Institute. The warning signs that a friend or family member has turned into an alcoholic are not always obvious at first. If you are not quite sure if a loved one’s tendencies have spun out of control, the following information may be helpful. Here are 3 surefire signs of alcohol abuse.

 1. Neglecting Responsibilities

Addicts depend on huge amounts of alcohol to make it through the day. They can only concentrate on one thing, and that is how to get another bottle of whiskey or vodka to help them reach their next euphoria. Many dependents drink because they want to forget. Others just like the effect the alcohol has. Either way, individuals with an alcohol addiction are unable to function properly in society. They neglect responsibilities at work, home, and school. Commitments are refused, and they are always late. Alcoholics also disappear at all hours of the day and night in order to avoid their assigned duties.

2. Causing Danger

Alcohol has a bad effect on a human’s body and brain. Intoxication is destructive in many ways. It lowers an individual's inhibitions, and impairs that person’s good judgment. Heavy drinkers no longer recognize dangerous situations on the road and throughout everyday life. They can hurt themselves and others while driving, operating machinery, and using equipment at home. Dependents are even less alert when alcohol is mixed with prescription drugs. They need medical attention at once.

3. Denial

Any time you point out that your friend, colleague, or relative is drinking too much, they will try to convince you right away that they are not alcoholics. They refuse to admit that they have a problem. It is impossible to talk to drunks. They will insist on being in control, yet will not quit even if it endangers valuable personal relationships.

Treatment and Rehabilitation



In most situations, alcoholics need professional help to conquer their addiction. Patients require constant supervision to help them through this difficult time. Rehab and recovery facilities like the Palm Beach Institute employ innovative programs to assist troubled citizens seeking help. The staff also teaches them coping skills to ensure a lifelong recovery. 

This is a sponsored post from Bucks2Blog for my readers.


**DISCLOSURE:  Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Seasons of Gray DVD #Review and #Giveaway!

Hey everyone! Hopefully your part of the world is a little bit warmer than it is here. We have several inches of snow on the ground with more scheduled this weekend and a brisk breeze blowing through the air. So, this is definitely the time of year to sit inside with a warm cup of coffee, some bread and pop in a good movie. Today I want to tell you about one I recently got in for review. Seasons of Gray is a modern day story of Joseph. We all know the Bible account of Joseph who was hated by his brothers because of the ability God gave him to interpret dreams. And how he was sold into slavery, then was accused of being immoral with his masters wife, thrown into prison and then finally God turned it all out for good. His life portrays that what man intends for evil, God uses it for good.



First off I want to say that the movie is very well filmed. I have reviewed many that are dark, shoddy, and just not that good. I understand that it takes a lot of money and some producers don't have that and it doesn't necessarily make the film bad but I do like when a movie is done professionally. And this one definitely fits the bill. The actors are not ones I am familiar with but they played their parts well and I was impressed. Even when I wanted to slap someone:)

Brady Gray is the main character and he is supposed to be the modern Joseph. God has given him the ability to see things that others don't. Such as one time when the whole family is gathered together eating except one young girl who is not feeling well. Brady all of a sudden sees the family standing around her grave so they all race over to check on her. Needless to say she is on the floor with only minutes to live. They are able to save her because of Brady being able to see things like this. Obviously his brothers do not care for this or the fact that his father favors him. There is a lot of arguing between them and bad feelings. So one day it comes to a head and they beat him up, brand him and sell him to a livestock salesman. And he is shipped away like an animal.

I don't want to give anything away so I won't go much more into the story. There is a part like in the Biblical account where a woman tries throwing herself at him. And when he resists her advances she then cries that he was attacking her. This was not too graphic but I would be careful with young children. Probably for older teens, depending on how sheltered your children are. I think it was dealt with in a tactful manner. Check out the trailer for Seasons of Gray and see how you would like it!



I was sent one copy for myself and one to giveaway for my readers. US ONLY as I am shipping this out. Giveaway will end 2/21. Winner will be chosen through Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

How to Hang an Awning

Awnings are a common thing to see outside of stores and restaurants; they provide shade and shelter, along with adding an aesthetically pleasing look or a level of brand recognition. But having an awning attached to your home can also provide benefits. Along with an area that can be sheltered from the sun (a porch, for example), an awning can be used to save energy when placed over a window or screen door that gets direct sunlight. There are many designs and styles of awnings to choose from, and places like U.S. Canvas and Awning can provide a plethora to options. But before you purchase the awning, you need to know how to get it up on the wall, once you have it.


How to Hang an Awning

Hanging an awning isn’t extremely difficult, and you will only need a few tools: a laser level, a pencil, a tape measure, and an electric drill.

Before you order the awning, first measure the area where the awning will be hung to ensure that you purchase the right size. Also, determine how far you want the awning to extend, bearing in mind that it will slope downward as it comes away from the wall.

Once you have acquired the right awning, use a laser level to mark a line on the external wall of the house where the awning will go. If you want, you may snap a chalk line along the wall to simplify the process.
Next, mark a spot along the line that is at its center. This spot is where you will hang the central bracket. Before hanging anything, however, it is wise to read the installation instructions as they may vary a little from these directions depending on what type of awning you have purchased.

Mount the central bracket by holding it in place and adding pilot holes before screwing the central bracket in with the provided screws.

Once the central bracket is affixed, you will want to have a helper hold the awning in place to ensure that the ends of the awning fit exactly where you have marked on your line. This is a good way to double-check the positioning of the end brackets before you install them. Once you have ensured that the end points are correct, pilot drill and affix the ending brackets. Now it’s ready to support the awning.

Lift the awning into place and then tighten the set screws that secure the awning to the brackets. Once this is done, give the awning a tug to ensure that it is firmly attached.

Connect the support bars to the end brackets as per the manufacturer’s instructions (usually they are attached with a hole and cotter pin system) and then attach the awning to the bars by slowly rolling it out and connecting as per the instructions.

An awning will add both function and beauty to your home, and with the wide variety of awnings available from U.S. Canvas and Awning, your choice may not have your brand name (like the stores), but it can certainly reflect your individual tastes.

This is a sponsored post for the enjoyment of Giveaway Lady readers. 


**DISCLOSURE:This is a sponsored post for the enjoyment of Giveaway Lady readers.  Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Monday, February 3, 2014

CFBA Tour for Gabriel's Bride by Amy Lilliard w/ #Review




This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Gabriel's Bride

B&H Books (February 1, 2014)

by

Amy Lillard


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:




I’m a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.


I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I’ve retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I’m from Texas. (?)  Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son–a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!


I love homemade tacos, shoes, and romance novels–not necessarily in that order. I’m a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I’m shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.


I  believe that God is love. I guess that’s why I adore romances.


I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I’m a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture.  I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that’s me June Cleaver with a laptop.


I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twilight series (I’ll get to it or I won’t, either way I’m good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I’m alone on this last one, and again, I’m good with it.)


Favorite movies–(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940′s movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven’t seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn’s and Audrey’s.


ABOUT THE BOOK



Rachel Yoder has two choices: marry Gabriel Fisher or move to Ohio. As an orphan, Rachel doesn’t have much to offer; any match she can make will be a good one. She just didn’t plan on Gabriel with his big hands and permanent frown.
As a widower Gabriel needs help caring for the farm and his six children. But he never thought he’d marry a slip of a girl who barely reaches his chin.
Yet as time passes, Gabriel finds himself thinking about a real marriage. They have spoken vows to God and each other, but can he risk his heart with Rachel?




If you would like to read the first chapter of Gabriel's Bride, go HERE.

MY REVIEW-I am not a real big fan of Amish books. There are some really good authors out there who write Amish novels that actually get me interested:) But too many of them seem to be the same plot. Amy Lillard is one of those authors who I love reading. Her first one drew me in and this one just helped reel me in. Great characters who seem very real. They aren't your typical Amish characters. So, whether you like Amish novels or not, this is an author I would urge you to try!!




**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**
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