Saturday, November 29, 2014

Pound Foolish by Dave and Neta Jackson!

Pound Foolish | Book Four in the Windy City Neighbors series (Castle Rock Creative, October 2014)


Greg Singer coordinates consumer sports shows for powerboats, four wheelers, snowmobiles, and jet skis-macho toys for outdoor men like himself. But the job puts tremendous stress on his marriage with Nicole, who for the first time notices the handsome lawyer at the end of the block. “Greener pastures?” When the recession hits Greg’s industry, he thinks the crisis is merely an opportunity for God to bless him with unmatched prosperity, a promise he hears preached each Sunday, and he steps out in bold faith . . . But is he being “pound foolish”?
The fourth in the Windy City Neighbors series, Pound Foolish explores the economic upheaval and uncertainties challenging every family. Intersecting withPenny Wise (book three), the Jacksons employ the innovating storytelling technique of “parallel novels.” Though each book follows its own drama and story arc, the characters’ lives become intertwined and affect one another. Pound Foolish returns us to Beecham Street-a typical American neighborhood . . . where a growing friendship brings new meaning to prosperity.

MY REVIEW-I have been a fan of several books by these authors here so I was excited to read this new one, Pound Foolish. It is the fourth in a series titled Windy City Neighbors. And you guessed it, the whole series about a neighborhood and the people who live in it. The characters all show up in the series and we see how their lives play out and what goes on in the homes. This book is about Greg Singer and his wife Nicole.

The plot behind this book is about marital problems and how you deal with them. Nicole is frustrated with her husband and his impulsive, money making ways and a friend shows up who has lots of money but also goes out of his way to be kind to her and show care. In defense of Greg, he wants to provide for his wife but one of those ways is to just throw the schedule away and on impulse take a vacation for three days. It is that kind of thing that frustrates Nicole, who is intent on homeschooling the children and following a schedule. Greg is also noticing that his spouse doesn't look as good as she used to, but he is still in love with her.

I found myself oddly wanting swinging from wanting to slap them both or cry with them. Nicole wants someone who is going to take care of her and Greg is wanting the get-rich-quick scenario. He often gambles with the money and uses what would be termed as scams to make money. The pastor at the church they are attending is one of those who preaches prosperity so Greg uses him as the leader for his choices. It is a situation that made me ache for them all. This book is filled with real life people who make decisions that any of us could make. An excellent 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.**

Vanishing Grace by Philip Yancey + $25 Family Christian Appreciation Certificate #Giveaway!

Do you ever feel like maybe what you are doing as a Christian just isn't enough? You talk to people who are unsaved and many times they look on "Christians" as being kooky, aggressive, confrontational and politically out there. I for one am tired of being looked at that way. So I was very glad to be able to review Philip Yancey's new book titled, Vanishing Grace. And let me just say, WOW! I found myself marking pages in here, taking notes and overall wanting to change the way I am around those who are lost.



“Why does the church stir up such negative feelings?” Philip Yancey has been asking this all his life as a journalist. His perennial question is more relevant now than ever: in a twenty-year span starting in the mid-nineties, research shows that favorable opinions of Christianity have plummeted drastically—and opinions of Evangelicals have taken even deeper dives.
The end of the politics-oriented Evangelicalism that was so dominant in the second half of the 20th century is a strong example that we are living in a post-Christian culture.
Yet while the opinions about Christianity are dropping, interest in spirituality is rising. Why the disconnect? Why are so many asking, “What’s so good about the “Good News?”
Yancey’s writing has focused on the search for honest faith that makes a difference for a world in pain. In his landmark book What’s So Amazing about Grace he issued a call for Christians to be as grace-filled in their behavior as they are in declaring their beliefs.
But people inside and outside the church are still thirsty for grace. What the church lacked in its heyday is now exactly what it needs to recover to thrive. Grace can bring together Christianity and our post-Christian culture, inviting outsiders as well as insiders to take a deep second look at why our faith matters and about what could reignite its appeal to future generations.
How can Christians offer grace in a way that is compelling to a jaded society? And how can they make a difference in a world that cries out in need?
Yancey aims this book at Christian readers, showing  them how Christians have lost respect, influence, and reputation in a newly post-Christian culture. “Why do they hate us so much?” mystified Americans ask about the rest of the world.  A similar question applies to evangelicals in America.
Yancey explores what may have contributed to hostility toward Evangelicals, especially in their mixing of faith and politics instead of embracing more grace-filled ways of presenting the gospel.  He offers illuminating stories of how faith can be expressed in ways that disarm even the most cynical critics.  Then he explores what is Good News and what is worth preserving in a culture that thinks it has rejected Christian faith.

I received this on the Kindle and I often have a hard time reading books on my tablet. I love my physical books:) But this time I opened it and slowly treasured each page, many times going back to re-read a sentence and allow it to sink in. Philip Yancey has a way with words that makes you comfortable and yet also makes you want to change. The whole point being developed throughout the book is that more and more Christians are not showing the grace and love that has been bestowed upon them. The grace that changed our lives and was freely given when we were thirsty is not as out there as it should be. And he is brutally honest in his descriptions.

One of the main things I liked was how he uses statistics so much. He backs everything up with how people perceive Christianity as a whole. He takes us across to other countries and shows how it is different from America. Even the difference in our country of north and south, which I have definitely noticed before. He makes the point that if we would look at people as hurting and lost, not just unsaved or wrong, then we will reply with kindness. How different our world would be if we responded with love to anyone, especially the people we see as enemies. All in all, this is an amazing book but no matter how many people read it over and over, it won't do any good if we don't take it to heart. People know what they should be doing, we just have to do it. Below is one of my favorite quotes from the whole book. Also typed out if you can't read it clearly enough.


"In my lifelong study of the Bible I have looked for an overarching theme, a summary statement of what the whole sprawling book is about. I have settled on this: "God gets his family back." From the first book the the last the Bible tells of wayward children and the great lengths to which God will go to bring them home. Indeed, the entire biblical drama ends with a huge family reunion in the book of Revelation."

This book is incredible. And one of you will be able to purchase it, if you would like, with the $25 Family Christian Stores appreciation certificate I am giving away. The giveaway will end 12/16 and winner will be chosen through Random.org. They will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

The Duck Commander Faith and Family Bible #Review




The stars of the hit TV show Duck Dynasty are committed to upholding five core values both on and off the screen: faith, family, fellowship, forgiveness, and freedom.


The Duck Commander® Faith and Family Bible features new stories and testimonials by Phil, the Robertson family patriarch, and his son Al, a pastor with more than 22 years of experience. Together they offer fresh wisdom on biblical values and how everyday people can apply them to their lives.
Powered by relentless dedication to sharing the gospel and celebrating Christ’s kingdom, the Robertson family has become influential to contemporary evangelism and discipleship. The Duck Commander® Faith and Family Bible unleashes the power of their practical insight into critical faith issues, founded on God’s Word.


Features include:
  • Full text of the New King James Version Bible
  • A personal welcome note from Phil and Al Robertson
  • 125 articles on the top 24 most-searched topics on BibleGateway
  • Life application and scripture references supplement each article
  • 30 days of life-changing testimonials
  • Topical index and reading plans


MY THOUGHTS-I have to admit, I was really unsure of how much I would honestly use this Bible when I received it for review. But I also know that my other Bible is getting worn and while I read it every morning, this devotional style Bible would come in handy. I love reading devotions and I have several plans that I use throughout the year. It is nice to read a little message and they often bring out something I may have not seen from a certain passage.

The big plus side to this Bible is the life application sections and the other articles that are written on the top 24 most-searched topics on BibleGateway. These are done in the manner that you see on the show. A 30 day Lifechanger section for the whole month which is like a small devotional, On the Hunt section with verses that correspond with a passage, etc. I thoroughly love it! The print is not too small but it also isn't real big. I had no problem reading it but if you have trouble with smaller print, I would be careful on it. The Bible is New King James Version and hardcover so this would make for a great gift.

My favorite verse of all time!! Romans 8:28




**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.**

Michael Phillip Cash Kindle Fire & Paypal #Giveaway!!



Award winning and best-selling author Michael Phillip Cash has eight novels to date. Stillwell won Honorable Mention for The Book of the Year Foreword Review 2014. Brood X was The Book of the Year for Readers Views and Rebecca's Reads. Cash loves writing about Long Island, its rich history and ghostly inhabitants.




                                                         AmazonBlogGoodreads

Just in time for the beginning of the holiday seasons, Michael Phillip Cash is generously giving away two wonderful prizes for his readers. Grand prize is an Kindle Fire with a second prize to another winner of $100 Paypal.  


Not actual Kindle Fire, this is for example only.


Would you like to win one of these? Well, you could! Enter in the Rafflecopter below. Please make sure to read the disclosure carefully. Good luck!

Disclosure:
This giveaway has been arranged by Away We Go Media on behalf of Michael Phillip Cash who is responsible for this giveaway. Giveaway Lady was asked to promote this giveaway and was not compensated for this post.

This giveaway is open to 18+ years of age and US only. The giveaway will run from November 26, 2014 at 12 Midnight MST through December 13, 2014 at Midnight MST. There will be two winners and will be chosen at random by Rafflecopter.com.
NOTE: The first entry on the Rafflecopter is mandatory. You must enter your full name, address, and email in order to be eligible for this giveaway. However, this sole entry does not constitute a win for you as you must enter at least one other entry. If you do not follow this rule you will be automatically disqualified. All entries will be verified. Your address will not be sold to any third party and only viewed and used by Away We Go Media for the purposed of the winners chosen.

Thank you for entering!


a Rafflecopter giveaway



**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, November 25, 2014

2014 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide Thankful With Sharlene MacLaren + 2 Book #Giveaway

2014 ULTIMATE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 
WITH SHARLENE MACLAREN!


Today I have a special guest who I am happy to include during my gift guide. Sharlene MacLaren is one of those authors who writes books that resonate with the reader. These aren't just novels to read and enjoy, but to savor and take your time with. So when she offered to host a giveaway, I was soo happy! This way someone will be able to have a wonderful surprise gift or maybe even something to gift a friend or family member.



“With a Thankful Heart”
Sharlene MacLaren

Psalm 100:Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

Giving thanks seems to be a normal routine for Christians. We daily thank Him for our food and for the clothes we wear, for warm blankets on a chilly night, and for our cozy homes. We praise Him for sunshine and even for the rain. Thanksgiving seems to be that special time of year for making lists of all our blessings. We reflect with grateful hearts on all the many good and wonderful things God has done for us – and we find it quite easy to do. Some begin their traditional “30 Days of Thankfulness” on November 1 and continue giving thanks throughout the month, naming at least one thing a day for which to be thankful. We are reminded in Psalm 34:1 of King David’s words when he said, "...His praise shall continually be in my mouth." In Psalm 119:62, he went on to say, "At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments."

As I write this Thanksgiving devotional, it is after midnight in my little office. In fact, it is 2:30 a.m. to be exact, and I rose from my bed with this particular question on my mind. What do folks do who find it difficult to give thanks? There are, after all, those who don’t know where their next meal will come from; those who worry about their wayward children, their aging parents, and their sick and/or dying friends or relatives. Perhaps they even lie awake fearful over their own poor health situations. Giving thanks isn’t always easy, is it? Sometimes it’s downright hard. And yet we are encouraged, if not commanded, to give thanks in ALL situations, for it is the will of God.

David later went on to say, "Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments." Seven times? Sometimes, it can be a difficult thing for even the most righteous Christian in crisis to stop and give thanks once, let alone seven times!

Psalm 32:11 says, “Shout for joy!” Really? But how? Surely, that can’t apply to those languishing in pain, suffering through incurable diseases, grieving over losses, and living through depression. Ah, but it does. What we need to do is develop a lifestyle of praise so that when the tough times come, we will be ready for them; we will be able to rise up and say, “Thank You, Lord. Yes, thank You for even this.” When we realize who God is, that He has designed us for a perfect purpose and with a heart created for praise, we can endure most anything. Look up with a thankful heart at all times – not just at Thanksgiving – but throughout the year, every day of your life.

"Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us and not we ourselves; we are his people and the sheep of his pasture." Psalm 100: 3, 4

P-R-A-I-S-E God with a thankful heart! Why? Because He is:


Powerful – Righteous – Able – Infinite – Strong – Everlasting!


THE BOOKS BEING GIVEN AWAY

CHRISTMAS COMES TO LITTLE HICKMAN CREEK





WHO ARE THESE FOR?

This author writes books that are perfect for anyone. I enjoy them quite a bit and they are all on my keeper shelf. You can't go wrong giving these to someone as a gift.

THE GIVEAWAY!!
One of my readers will win two copies of Sharlene's books. One copy of Christmas Comes to Little Hickman Creek and one copy of Threads of Joy. Absolutely wonderful books that you can keep as a surprise gift for the holidays or to give as a gift. Books make for great presents! The giveaway will end 12/11 and the winner will be chosen through Random.org. They will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. USA ONLY!!

Monday, November 24, 2014

2014 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide Alpha Hydrox Sheer Silk Moisturizer Review & 3 Product #Giveaway!

2014 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide
Alpha Hydrox Sheer Silk Moisturizer!!



Hey friends! Sorry I haven't been on quite so much. Have friends visiting from Alabama and it has been pretty hectic. Our weather has been back and forth between snow and biting winds to warmer days where you don't even have to wear a jacket. And that my friends is where a product like this one comes into play. For two reasons which I will explain below. I am also going to be giving away three products out of the Alpha Hydrox line that will be great for the holidays!


I am a person who struggles with acne. It was hard in my teens and yet even as an adult I often have breakouts and it is embarrassing to constantly have to deal with it. You can never totally cover them up no matter what people say and you feel like everyone is looking at the spots on your face. Believe me, been there and done that. I know how it feels. I also know how hard it is to find products that work in the way they are supposed to, without making you breakout. That is why I am totally loving this new product I received for review. The Alpha Hydrox Sheer Silk Moisturizer. It is made to combat acne and give your face that wonderful moisture it craves!!



My favorite part of the lotion is that it is so light. I have tried many products that say they are silky and light but none have worked like this one. I put it on and couldn't even tell I have applied it. Very light and airy, it doesn't leave your face with that awful greasy feeling. And that is a big thing for people who deal with acne. You want to have the moisture but not that oily greasy moisture. It is so hard to have that balance or by afternoon you will have to be wiping your face every hour or so. I didn't have this problem at all using the Sheer Silk Moisturizer.



I also like that it has a broad spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen in it. When I know I will be out in the sun longer I use something stronger but this is good for those days I am not outside much.



The lotion is easy to apply, works great and hasn't made me break out at all. At least not any more than I normally do. I didn't have any problems using it and I found my face feeling so soft and smooth after applying this for two weeks.

WHO IS THIS FOR??
This is for anyone who deals with acne or just wants a great set of products that really work. I found this so soothing and not just for my facial problems, just as a moisturizer.

THE GIVEAWAY!!

Now for the giveaway they have offered three products to one winner. They will receive the Foaming Face Wash, Enhanced Lotion and Sheer Silk Moisturizer from the Alpha Hydrox Line. This giveaway will end 12/9 and winner will be chosen through Random.org. They will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. USA ONLY!!

Thursday, November 20, 2014

2014 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide with Terri Reed + 2 Book #Giveaway!

2014 ULTIMATE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE!!

Today I have another author who has graciously offered a giveaway of two copies of her newest book, Danger at the Border. This is a suspense novel and I have to tell you, she is one of the queens of the Love Inspired Suspense line!! Super great mysteries, romance that often sizzles and characters that make you alternate between loving and hating them:) But really, her books are just that good. And she sent me two copies of her new one to give away to two of my readers. Check it out, after you read her interview. I don't know about you, but I always enjoy finding out more about the authors I love.


Thank you for being with us today, Terri!

How long have you known you wanted to be an author? 
I can remember saying I wanted to be a writer as early as seventh grade. Though I had no idea what it really meant to be an author until I sold. Not only must you write the book but you must be a business person as well.

Can you tell me a little bit about your newest book?


I have two recent releases. The first from Love Inspired Suspense, Danger at the Border, is set in the beautiful Pacific Northwest and is the first book in the Northern Border Patrol series. In this book fish biologist Dr. Tessa Cleary along with Border Patrol Agent Jeff Steele must discover the source of a toxin that has contaminated a lake that crosses the international boundary line before any more people are harmed. What they find in the forest, could do them both in.

The second release is a sweet contemporary romance from Tule Publishing Group, Home for Good, is set in the fictional town of Marietta Montana. It’s a book about coming home and following your dreams.




When a reader gets done with your book, what do you want them to come away with? 
For both my Love Inspired books and the Tule book I hope readers enjoys the stories. Because of the faith element in my Love Inspired books, I hope readers will glimpse the character of God and their hearts will be touched.

Since we are nearing the holidays, what are 3 things you are most thankful for this year?  
I’m thankful for a really good physical therapist who has helped me tremendously with some physical issues. I’m thankful for my family who are supportive and loving. I’m thankful for readers who write to me. I enjoy hearing from those who love reading as much as I do.

What is your favorite holiday(Thanksgiving or Christmas) tradition? 
I enjoy going to Christmas Eve candlelight services. It’s a time of reflection on the true meaning of Christmas which can get lost in the hustle and bustle of gift giving, holiday parties and family gatherings.

And what is one food that has to be on the table for Thanksgiving? 
Sweet Potato Pie.

Do you have a favorite hobby? 
Does exercise count? I enjoy dancing any time, any where.

Is there something about you most people wouldn't know? 
I loathe snakes. My kids think it is funny when we go on hikes in the forest and we hear rustling in the bushes or, worse yet, actually see a snake. I scream and practically climb the nearest tree.

Any last thoughts for your readers? 
If you’re online, connect with your favorite authors on social media. We love to get to know our readers. And one way to help your favorite authors is to do reviews. Reviews have become the word of mouth for the Internet.

And how can they connect with you?
My webpage is www.terrireed.com
I’m on Facebook at http://on.fb.me/1naYIRv
I blog at two places
The Craftie Ladies of Love Inspired Romance http://craftieladiesofromance.blogspot.com
And at Love Inspired Authors
http://loveinspiredauthors.blogspot.com


THE BOOK BEING GIVEN AWAY, DANGER AT THE BORDER







WHO ARE THESE FOR?
Personally I think these would be good for females, AND males. When you have suspense mixed with romance, you can't go wrong. But I know some guys may not like the romance aspect. So maybe I will suggest them mainly for the ladies.


THE GIVEAWAY DETAILS!

I have two copies of Danger at the Border. So two readers will each win one copy, along with that little sticky notepad that Terri sent, and some bookmarks:) Perfect to stick in a stocking! This is USA only as I am shipping. Giveaway will end 12/8 so I can get them shipped in time for the holidays. Winners will be chosen through Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

2014 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide 21 Drops Essential Oils R& #Giveaway!

2014 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide!!!



Do you ever have one of those nights where it is hard to fall asleep? I don't know about you, but especially around the holidays you can be kept up a lot. For me, I often get so on the go and my mind running with gifts, being a hostess, planning parties, etc that even when I fall into bed my thoughts are still going lickety-split. It is hard sometimes to get to sleep! I have tried many different things but one of my favorites so far has been this oil from 21 Drops. I actually got the #18 Sleep essential oil for review and have quickly grown to love it.



I have heard many good things about essential oils being used as remedies, helps, whatever you want to call them. But I am always skeptical of things like that. So I went into this with very open eyes. Opening the box I definitely liked the packaging and the container. The oil is in a rollerball bottle that makes it very easy to apply the product. You are supposed to use this on your wrists, temples and back of the neck. It contains Ylang Ylang, Vetiver, Sandalwood and Palmarosa to help calm, soothe and relax the body.



The first night I used this I didn't really tell a big change. It still took me a bit to get to doze off. The second night I used it I found myself dropping off a bit faster. And once I fell asleep, it was the sleep of the dead. I literally didn't wake up until 7 AM. Which is not normal for me. I am often up when the sun comes shining in the windows. This really helped me feel rested the next day so I didn't use it that night. Guess what happened? I woke up several times off and on. So I have been using this for about 2 weeks now and loving it. Not only does it help me get to sleep faster, but also a better sleep. Definitely feel rested.




WHO IS THIS FOR?
This would be great for anyone. Not only mothers who have young ones keeping them running all day, but also fathers who need their sleep for work the next day, young adults who need the sleep for school exams, etc. Works great for anyone and since it is essential oils, it is easy to apply.

THE GIVEAWAY!!
One winner will receive a bottle of the Sleep essential oil that I received. This will end 12/4 and winner will be chosen through Random.org. USA only!! Winner will have 48 hours to respond to my email and then another winner will be picked.

Saturday, November 15, 2014

Quilts of Love | QUILTED BY CHRISTMAS – Kindle Giveaway & “Merry Quilted” Facebook Party!

New from Abingdon Press’ Quilts of Love series | Quilted by Christmas


A grandmother’s last wish is to communicate God’s love through an Irish chain quilt.
Taryn McKenna believes she’s easy to forget. Abandoned by her parents and left behind when her high school sweetheart joined the army, she vows to never love again and throws herself into her love for the outdoors and the pursuit of a college degree—something no one else in her family has ever accomplished. Her goal, as a young teacher in the hills of North Carolina, is to leave a legacy in the lives of the middle‑schoolers she teaches.
When Taryn’s grandmother Jemma, the only other person who ever held her close, has a heart attack that reveals a fatal medical condition, Taryn is corralled into helping Grandma work on a final project—an Irish chain quilt that tells the story of her history and the love Jemma knows is out there for Taryn. As the pieces of the quilt come together, Taryn begins to see her value. Can she learn to believe that God will never leave her behind even though others have?

MY REVIEW-Jodie Bailey is an author I am somewhat familiar with through her Love Inspired book line. And I was pleasantly surprised after reading this one to see how well she can go from a smaller length novel to a little bit larger one. This one is so holiday centered I was almost glad to get snow while I was reading it! Almost, but not quite:)

One of the main things I came away with was the idea that what you say, hurts. We always hear that saying about sticks and stone can hurt but words can't. This book clearly shows how that is so wrong and what we say does matter, for now and eternity. Words make such a difference!

The characters are very well written. I came away feeling like they were friends I could curl up with on these cold nights. This is the type of book you read when you want a sweet book. It is just that cute and light. Definitely looking out for other books by Jodie Bailey!


THE KINDLE GIVEAWAY!

Don’t miss the newest Quilts of Love book, Quilted by Christmas by Jodie Bailey. October’s QOL release is a warm Christmas tale of God's steadfast love.



Enter to win a Kindle HDX, and RSVP for the “Merry Quilted” Quilts of Love Facebook party on December 9th.


qol-quiltedbychristmas-400


One winner will receive:


  • A Kindle Fire

  • Two copies of Quilted by Christmas by Jodie Bailey (One for you and one to give away as a gift!)

  • Hidden in the Stars by Robin Caroll

  • Swept Away by Laura V. Hilton and Cindy Loven

Enter today by clicking the button below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 16th. Winner will be announced November 17th at the Quilts of Love blog.



Wait! There's more! RSVP for the "Merry Quilted" Quilts of Love Christmas Book Chat Party on December 9th and connect with some of the Quilts of Love authors. Jodie Bailey, Laura V. Hilton, Cindy Loven, Cathy Elliott, and Gina Welborn will be hosting a "merry" evening of book chat, Christmas traditions, prizes, and more!





qol-quiltedbychristmas-enterbanner


{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}


RSVP today and spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on December 9th!




**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.**

Winterscape by Jim Wilson R& $10 Gift Certificate #Giveaway #FCblogger

This past week has been a little rough for me. Just busy with things and life. Friends visiting, the cold weather dropping unexpectedly and the colds and coughs going around. That is where holiday music comes in. Sorry, but sometimes those holiday tunes played on a piano are just the thing to help drive away the blues or calm your spirits on a stressful night. Music like the Jim Wilson Winterscape CD I received for review. I had never heard his music before but I quickly grew to enjoy the classical flair he plays with.



I am one of those people who loves playing Christmas music year round, but something makes it special this time of year. The beautiful melodies delivered here include Greensleeves, Silent Night, God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman, O Come All Ye Faithful, Oh Holy Night and Aspenglow among others. Jim Wilson has guest vocals by Dan Fogelberg and Stephen Bishop on a couple songs. The piano is very calming and soothing, though a few of them have some pep to them. I enjoyed this one and found it perfect for this time of year. The only thing is I wish there had been something to make it stand out. I liked it, but at the same time it was a normal holiday CD. If you enjoy piano music that is soothing and brings the holidays to your home, this is the one for you.

Anyone want to win a $10 Family Christian appreciation certificate? These are wonderful and can be used on almost anything on their website or in their store. You know with the holidays coming up you just might want to get somebody a gift from here:) This giveaway will end 12/2 and winner will be chosen through Random.org. They will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. THANKS FOR ENTERING!

Friday, November 14, 2014

2014 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide Beessential Set Review & #Giveaway! #Beessential

How many of you are aware of what is in your shampoo and conditioner? Like many of us, I didn't even really think about the chemicals, harsh ingredients and dyes that I used in my hair every day. Don't get me wrong, I was careful about the heating tools, and I have only done highlights once in my lifetime, but our shampoo is something we apply every single day and yet what is in these products, might cause more harm than good. That is why I was overjoyed to receive this next set for my holiday gift guide. Beessential Body Care sent me a set of three products to review and I have kept one of the pieces to host a giveaway with.

My absolute favorite of this set is the Honey and Botanical Shampoo. The scent is amazing! Oh my word! I opened the top just to smell it and it is great. Now to see if it works as good as it smells.

I tried this the next day in the shower and only used a little bit. With my long hair it normally takes more product than most people. This shampoo though really doesn't take a lot. The only problem I had with it was that it didn't lather the way most of them do. But I think that lather isn't something that makes the shampoo work better, it just makes you feel like it is. This leaves my hair soft, clean and smelling wonderful. I have quickly grown to fall in love with it!

The conditioner was the next item to try. I used this after the shampoo but with my hair being thin and long, I only use it on the ends. The conditioner worked well, I just liked the shampoo better. I felt that I could use just the shampoo and my hair would come out looking as good as when I use conditioner. It is a light product and didn't cause buildup or weigh my hair down. Believe me, have enough trouble with that in the past. This conditioner didn't do that.

The last product I received was the Original Honey Hand and Body Cream. This is in the Fresh Cucumber and Energizing Green Tea scent and I saved it as a giveaway for my readers. You will absolutely love this if it is anything like the other products. Smells awesome and works great! One product, one winner, in the USA only. The giveaway will end 12/2. Random.org will be used to pick a winner and the winner will have 48 hours to respond or another person will be chosen. Have fun!!

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

CFBA Tour for Dreaming on Daisies by Miralee Ferrell





This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

Dreaming on Daisies

David C. Cook (October 1, 2014)

by

Miralee Ferrell






ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Miralee and her husband, Allen, live on 11 acres in Washington State. She loves to minister to women (as a certified Lay Counselor with the AACC) or through her writing, riding her horse, working in  her flower beds and playing with her dogs—her 7 lb, long-haired Chihuahua, Lacey, spends a lot of time on her lap while Miralee is writing. Miralee speak at various women’s functions and has taught at writers’ conferences. She’s been writing since 2005, and her first book released in 2007. Since then, she’s had 10 more books release, both in women’s contemporary fiction and historical romance, and she’s had the honor of being a best-selling and award-winning author.




ABOUT THE BOOK



When her father's debts, brought on by heavy drinking, threaten Leah Carlson's family ranch, she fights to save it. When handsome banker Steven Harding must decline her loan request, he determines to do what he can to help. Just as he arrives to serve as a much-needed ranch hand, Leah's family secrets—and the pain of her past—come to a head. They could destroy everything she's fought for. And they could keep her from ever opening her heart again.


This is western historical romance that offers hope and healing to the deepest wounds in a woman's past.


If you'd like to read the first chapter of Dreaming on Daisies, go HERE.


MY REVIEW-Miralee Ferrell is one of those authors who writes novels that live in your heart. Every book I have ever read by her just speaks to you and makes you feel things as you devour the story. And Dreaming on Daisies is no different. The Love Blossoms in Oregon series has probably been my favorite but I found the books she wrote for the Love Finds You line coming in a close second. This book here is number 3 in the Love Blossoms in Oregon series and it is a hard choice over who would be my favorite character. I personally love Wilma and Frances. If you have read the previous books you will recognize many of the people but these two women quickly grew to become favorites. One of the things that spoke to me in this story was the feeling of being loved. We never know how much the rebellion or coldness on the outside is a show, and all they really want is love. Needless to say, I don't want to give anything away, but this book is a must have!! Went on my keeper shelf with the others.



**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, November 11, 2014

Surprised Love by Julie Lessman Book #Review



Shy and unattractive as a child, Megan McClare has always been teased by her classmates. But when she returns home from her senior year in Paris, the wallflower has suddenly blossomed into a beauty. With ambitions to become a lawyer or doctor, Megan accepts an internship at the district attorney's office only to discover that she will be working with Devin Caldwell, a boy who mercilessly mocked her at school -- and with whom she was hopelessly enamored. She turns to her dear friend Bram Hughes for support and advice. But Bram's vision is clouded by his sudden unwelcome attraction to a girl he had always thought of as a kid sister. He advises forgiveness, but can he forgive himself for pushing the woman he loves into the arms of another man?

MY THOUGHTS-Julie Lessman is an author known for her romance books that sizzle and make you swoon. Yes, they are Christian and very much so, but they are also heavy on the romantic tension and relationships between husband and wife. That is why I love her! I can read a book like this one without any detail that shouldn't be there but I still get the mushy emotions between characters.

This book here is number #3 in the Heart of San Francisco series. Needless to say, I thoroughly loved it! Like it would be anything but love, right? Her characters are soo realistic and the stories are very plausible. They really do make you swoon while reading them. I loved hearing more about Cassie and Alli, Nick and Jaime, along with Caitlyn and Logan. These people feel like family and you want to find out what has been going on in their lives from the last book. The main characters in this book happen to be Megan McClare and Bram Hughes.

If you have read the previous books you will remember Bram and Megs. Megs is the shy, withdrawn child who was always getting picked on for her looks but Bram was her protector, mentor and guidance. He was always there for her. no matter what. At the end of the last book Megs is taking a trip to Paris for one year to visit friends of her mother. So the book opens with her coming back. And she comes back a very changed person. Different in her relationship with the Lord and her appearance. Wowza! Nothing like completely changing a person. Glasses are gone, freckles are no more and her curves are all in the right places now that the baby fat is gone.

Now comes the fun. Bram's "bug" is no longer the shy person he thought of as a sister. Megs has always loved Bram even though he is ten years her senior and now she wants to show him the woman she has become. Only problem is that there is another woman in Bram's life now. So even if his heart goes one way, he must follow the rules. I personally loved his strong personality. And Megs reminds me of myself. I soo wanted her to win the battles she faced after coming back. This is a fun book that teaches many lessons. You did it again Mrs. Lessman!! A devoted follower 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.**
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