♥ Books, Crafts & Pretty Things Blog

The future of this blog and thanks...

2017-12-02T12:19:00.000+08:00

I am taking a break, and this blog is archived until I can work on my website. The reasons for this choice are:

Too much on my plate.
I am embarking on new adventures.
Most of my animals have departed.
I have a lot of reading to do, so I won't be able to do many reviews at the moment.
I'm on a social media detox.

Thanks for being a reader and subscriber. Here's some fun highlights of my blogging adventures for the last seven years.

Gingerbread at Moonglow - Review and Giveaway

2017-11-15T22:19:00.000+08:00

MY REVIEW:

This is the third book in the series by Deborah Garner about the Timberton Hotel and Moonglow Cafe, and the second one I have read.

You can see my review of Mistletoe at Moonglow here. I have to reiterate what I said, that this is a beautiful story to get you into the holiday mood.

Each of these novellas is a standalone story and they don't take very long to read. But they have a lovely familiarity, a cozy feeling, about them and you want to be friends with these characters.

Gingerbread at Moonglow, repeats the scenario that each year a small group of people gather at the Timberton Hotel for the holidays. For the last three years Mist has been running the Moonglow Cafe from the hotel, and it brings in both locals and people from afar.

Mist has a way of making all feel welcome. From the personal touches in their rooms, the fabulous menus, and the hand painted gifts, she weaves her own brand of magic making each guest happier. Everyone is special, everyone is included.

This year we have some familiar faces and some new ones, and it makes for a lovely little story. If you've read the other two you will want to know what happens with Mist and Michael, and I won't tell.

One thing about Deborah's stories is that they make you hungry. She describes all the lovely fare on offer at the cafe, and you just want to start baking. Just as well she has added some cookie recipes for you to try.

There's a mix up with the gingerbread house, which is cute and funny. But as with all good tales, there's a happy ending.

I received this book through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

Read on for information about the book, the author and a giveaway.

See complete post »

Happy Blogoversary to me.

2017-09-30T12:12:00.002+08:00

I started this blog in 2010 when I was enrolled in the Certificate of Library (Information services). It's called something else now. But at the time we were looking at our Information Literacy which, of course now days, includes social media.

I took a while to decide upon a topic for my blog. I had started a few Tumblr blogs and the one I enjoyed the most was called Books, Crafts & Pretty Things. So the name just stuck and I went with it. I was able to use my blog to get credit for some work assignments and it has helped me a lot to network with amazing people.

The first post I ever did was called "Best Ever Muffin Recipe".
My most popular posts have been about making crafts from books, like this one here.

Friday 29th September 2017 marked my 7 year blogoversay, and I am giving away two headbands, which can be used as planner bands (as shown below).

I crocheted all the flowers and used vintage buttons to attach them to pre-made bands I bought from Ebay.

I hope you enjoy them. This competition is open Internationally and closes on 15th October 2017 at midnight (Perth, Australia).

Just tell me which colour you would like to win. This will count as your entry. That's it. There will be two winners chosen by random generator. They will each receive one headband of their choice from those pictured. I will cover postage.

If you want more entries feel free to do the following. The more entries you have, the more chance you have to WIN!!:

1. Follow me on any social media accounts. One entry per follow.

2. Spread the news about my blogoversary giveaway. One entry per share. (Make sure you tag me or use hashtag #BCPTBlogoversary7)

This giveaway is not sponsored or endorsed by Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or any of the social media accounts I use to network which are listed on my Social media page here

Cat Thursday & other Blog Hops

2017-09-21T22:22:00.000+08:00

Welcome to the weekly meme that celebrates the wonders and sometime hilarity of cats! Join us by posting a favorite LOL cat pic you may have come across, famous cat art or even share with us pics of your own beloved cat(s). It's all for the love of cats! Hosted by Michelle at The True Book Addict.

This is my parent's cat. She is a real beauty.

Writing for Bliss - Diana Raab

2017-09-19T12:05:00.000+08:00

My Review:

I wrote all the time as a child. I wrote poetry and journal entries, short stories, even songs. I wrote all through my teenage years and while I was pregnant, and then when I had my second child I stopped. I was very busy and I somehow didn’t have time for reading and writing and life became very difficult.

Later, when I began home schooling, I found more time for reading again. In the early hours of the morning when other mums were busy with the school rush, I had a few moments to myself and life got a little easier. But it was only when I started writing again, journaling again and even blogging, that things turned around and I began to really get myself together. But now I am stuck in a kind of rut, with lots of ideas and many unfinished manuscripts. I’m finding it hard to prioritise writing when I have work, study, family duties and (let’s face it) the distracting Internet.

The book “Writing for Bliss” was just the book I needed to shake things up a bit. Whether you have never written before, are a sometimes writer, or you just feel stuck like me, then this book can help.

Partly autobiographical and partly self-help this book provides lots of advice:

I like to mention what Zen master Shunryu Suziki referred to in his book, Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind (1976), as maintaining the sensibility of the “beginner’s mind.” The idea is that the beginner’s mind tends to be open to many possibilities, unlike the expert’s mind, which only sees few.

It also provides practical tips such as:

One rule about writing is that if you want to be a writer, you need to be a reader.

And:

Writers need privacy and solitude to tap into their creative selves.

And writing prompts, to get you started:

Writing Prompt 2:7 – Exploring a Vivid Dream
On another occasion, recall a vivid dream. Describe in detail the images in it. Note the feelings you associate with the dream. What does the dream remind you of in your present or past circumstances?

Using a combination of psychology and creative writing techniques, Diana Raab leads the reader through a journey of therapeutic artistic pursuit. This is the perfect companion to the Art Therapy I have been doing, because it uses similar principles, but encourages my need to create using words.

There is so much great advice about visualization and getting past those creative blocks. Sometimes there are things in our life that are difficult to write about, but you know Raab has been there, and can help guide you through. Furthermore, it is backed by Raab’s own research into the transformative power of writing one’s memoirs.

As I begin to get unstuck using these ideas, I know as I continue my manuscripts that I will return again and again to this powerful guide for advice. It also includes a handy Index and Bibliography.

I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

Continue after the jump break for author details and a giveaway:

See complete post »

Cat Thursday - Goodbye Jigglypuff

2017-09-15T12:38:00.000+08:00

It has taken me a month to write this, as it is such a difficult topic. Jigglypuff has been on my blog since it began in 2010. She was with us for 17 years, and we miss her very much.

See complete post »

An excerpt from my NaNoWriMo 2016

2017-09-13T10:30:00.000+08:00

I had only had one, very small cup of coffee. I wanted, no needed, a second cup desperately but he decided it was time to go, even though our goodbyes and parting words took longer than it would have taken for me to drink that second cup.
I smiled at our hosts and joked that I would get a roadie coffee, since they assured me that we wouldn’t find a decent cup of coffee once we got out of Bunbury. As we drove, I realised we were on the road out of town. He stopped, and I assumed he’d enter a stop for coffee into the GPS, but he was just rechecking the load on the roof rack.
"What about coffee?" I asked, but it sounded more like "coffeeeee", and more like begging than asking. He assured me that there was a place we could go but he continued the out of town route.
"I don’t want to wait an hour, I want something now," I said and I hated the way I sounded when I said it.
We stopped to check the load once more, then the noise that was irritating him must have been sorted.
"You can’t hear it?" he said. I responded in the negative. My caffeine deprived brain couldn’t comprehend anything. The muscles in my neck were tightening and my Zen was way past due for a top up.
Finally, we arrived in Boyanup. I hadn’t even left the car when I heard the wails from an unknown source. He mistook my concern for fear. Once I reassured him I was only concerned that the unknown woman sounded distressed, I left to buy the coffee and he checked the load again.
I followed the sobs to the woman on a public telephone, almost unseen in the city. She was wailing about coming to get her kids and something about him sleeping around or sleeping with someone, I wasn’t sure. Her pain was thick in her voice and it permeated everything around her. My heart clenched as she said the words I had so often repeated myself, "I’m not crazy".
I entered the shop and bought the drinks and two slices, which we really didn’t need, but my sugar addiction is as bad as my caffeine addiction. At least I don’t smoke anymore, but I keep thinking I should take it up again. I kept my sunglasses on as I was making my purchases, but I didn’t care about the looks I got. My thoughts were still on the woman in pain, at her most vulnerable, with no privacy, in the middle of the town she probably lived in, spiralling out of control because she was pushed beyond her level of coping.
Women are always seen as the emotional ones, out of control, crazy, hysterical. We snapped because we didn’t get our own way, we cried because it rained on the washing, we spiralled because we couldn’t cope, we crashed the car because we are stupid, we tipped over the edge because we are weak, we killed our partner because we didn’t get our coffee... okay I made that last one up.
After we left Bunbury I knew the time had come for me to write it all down. I was going to have a week without phone calls, appointments, study or work. I was ready to face my demons and work it all out.
The only problem was I had left all the recordings at home and I was going to have to write a lot of it from memory. I had to do it though, I had to make a start. I could fill in the details from the recordings and my notes later. It was time to record the truth. It was time.

Berlin Syndrome Trailer #1 (2017) | Movieclips Trailers

2017-04-23T11:28:00.001+08:00

I reviewed this book on my blog back in 2011. Now it's a movie. Are you the type of person who likes to read the book before you see the film? You can read my review here: http://bookscraftsprettythings.blogspot.com.au/2011/09/berlin-syndrome-melanie-joosten.html

My UV patch Review

2017-03-25T10:15:00.000+08:00

I had two basal cell carcinomas removed from my face two years ago. I have always considered that I am fairly careful in the sun, considering my skin tone. But the report from the biopsy also stated that I had "severely sun damaged skin". This was quite a shock. So I have become even more vigilant. But I just didn't have a way to measure how much U exposure I was getting.

I was asked if I would like to trial My UV Patch through Social Soup, and I jumped at the chance.
The patch is a piece of wearable technology that you can use with an app on your phone to measure your UV exposure. Wearables have become so popular at the moment and I'm a big fangirl of technology.

The patch was really easy to use and apply. It was very thin, and you need to follow the instructions precisely, and make sure your skin is clean and dry when applying. I found on older skin, like mine, I made a fist to make sure my skin was taut. Once applied the patch stretches and moves with your skin. You just apply your sunscreen over the top and the app even sends you reminders of when to re-apply your sunscreen.

I will definitely be getting one of these next time I am on holidays. I think that is a time when I am most vulnerable to forgetting my sun care, because I'm having so much fun (and maybe a little drink or two). I can picture a time when kids will run back to their parents and get their patch scanned and Mum & Dad will know exactly how much UV exposure the kids are getting as well as receiving prompts to re-apply the sunscreen. The app is available at GooglePlay & AppleiTunes stores.

I was given a free patch to trial in exchange for an Instagram photo. I loved it so much I wanted to share on my blog and I wasn't given any compensation for this - it was just my honest opinion.

Cat Thursday - Face Swap by Reddit user yokj6

2017-03-23T22:45:00.002+08:00

Also joining these blog hops. Come and join the fun.

Top left is Shiloh, bottom left is Stinky, and right is Toby.

Please make sure you credit this (as I have) to Reddit User yokj6

NEW RELEASE - If I'm Found - Terri Blackstock

2017-03-22T12:41:00.002+08:00

In the first book If I Run we are introduced to Casey who has just made a gruesome discovery. Her best friend Brent has been murdered, and she's been set up to take the fall. Brent had been looking in to the death of Casey's father, a police officer who reportedly committed suicide. What did he discover that is worth killing for?

Dylan has been following Casey, and he's getting to know her pretty well. He finds it hard to believe she murdered his old friend Brent. But Brent's parents have hired him to find her and the cops assigned to the case are being very uncooperative.

If I Run is a great read. It's fast paced and keeps you on tenterhooks, like a good thriller should. I worried that Casey's kindness was going to get her caught. I didn't want to stop reading.
Although the sub-plot is concluded, you are left wanting more. Casey's story isn't over and the bad guys haven't been dealt justice.

Enter - If I'm Found, the second book in the series.

The second book starts more slowly, we have Casey thinking about what to do next and Dylan wondering what to do about Casey. The momentum builds slowly until you find your heart beating a little faster, and realise you are once again drawn into the tension of Casey's story.

Blackstock tackles the very difficult topic of mental health in both books. Like in life, each character presents differing views on medication and psychotherapy. Some of the characters are well educated and well informed, while others demonstrate the stigma and shame still attached to mental health.

There's an underlying religious message that Christians will enjoy. But even for non-Christians there is a lovely message of hope and the goodness of humanity. I like that Casey is a good and moral person even before she begins going to church. The message is more subtle in the first book but more frank in the second book. It's a personal choice that the writer has made to speak her own thoughts through her character's mouths. I think most writers would do that at some point. As a non-Christian I didn't feel it detracted from the story very much.

I did a little research and Trigeminal Nerve Stimulation is a real clinical trial over the past few years for treating major depression and PTSD with some success with epilepsy in some cases.

Some further research - I was a little confused about 'Lake Ron Hubbard' wondering if it was a reference to Scientology for some reason. I believe the lake in Dallas is called Lake Ray Hubbard, named after a former president of the Parks and Recreation Board. So I'm not sure if this was just to fictionalise a place because the 'Watershed Marina' is not the name of either marina at Lake Ray Hubbard.

The second book was released yesterday and it can be read as a stand alone novel, because the other story is recapped a little as you read. I would recommend both books to be read in the correct order, however, just because of the thrill they gave me as a reader. I definitely recommend If I'm Found as a suspenseful and captivating story. Blackstock started as a romance writer but I think she has found her niche as a writer of thrillers.

About the Author:

Terri Blackstock is a New York Times and USA Today best-seller, with over seven million books sold worldwide. She is the winner of two Carol Awards, a Christian Retailers Choice Award, and a Romantic Times Book Reviews Career Achievement Award, among others. She has had over twenty-five years of success as a novelist.

Find Terri Blackstock on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and at http://terriblackstock.co

About the Book:

Author: Terri Blackstock

Series: If I Run, Book 2

Publisher: Zondervan

Publication Year: 2017

ASIN: B01HAKH212

ISBN: 0310332486

I was given an e-book Advanced Reading Copy of If I'm Found through Smith Publicity. I listened to the audiobook of If I Run from my library. All opinions are my own.

Into the Air book review

2017-03-21T13:23:00.000+08:00

Mia lives her life underground like the rest of humanity, who have lived a subsistence lifestyle for the last one hundred years. Her days are filled with work, eating, sleeping, and staring at the walls of her small room.

When her father receives a letter summoning them to the Academy, Mia is given the chance to go outside. She is both excited to explore the rest of the world, and anxious by how ill-prepared she feels to face what she learns about herself and the people who want her dead.

The post-apocalyptic storyline is one of my favourites and Downing doesn't disappoint. Into the Air is great story with a steady pace.

I really liked the characters, each with their own charm. There is a hint of romance but it's not the main focus. Although Mia needs help along the way, she's not completely helpless. She finds a strength and determination she never knew she had.

The story unfolds with a combination of dialogue, flashbacks and action.It culminates in a satisfyingly bloody battle. Then it leaves just enough questions to whet your appetite for the sequel.

If you love Divergent, The Host and Tomorrow When the War Began, then I recommend Into the Air. I can't wait for the next one in the series. I really enjoyed this book.

Don't forget to see my previous post for details of the book tour and the author's giveaway. You can reach it by clicking the picture below.

Available to buy from....
Amazon.com Amazon.co.uk Barnes and Noble Kobo Paperback

About the author

A. K. Downing is the author of the young adult, adventure novel Into the Air. She grew up in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania and spent her summers exploring the fields, woods and orchards of her grandparents' farm. She studied graphic design at Kent State University and currently works as a Creative Director. She enjoys history, camping, and walking through fields of tall grass, and feels there is no better way to see the world than from the top of a horse. She currently lives in the woods with her husband, daughter, two cats and five chickens. Into the Air is her first novel.

Find the author on the following sites...

Website Facebook Twitter Goodreads Amazon author page

I received this book through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

Into the Air - Book Tour & Giveaway

2017-03-16T02:32:00.000+08:00

Like everyone else in the world, Mia Bryn lives in the dark. Buried in an underground compound, her life is spent in brief allotments of florescent light and dwindling food supplies. But when a letter arrives, Mia and her father are invited to embark on a journey that no one else has been allowed to take for over a hundred years. They are asked to leave the ground and travel into the air. But the outside world is more surprising and dangerous than Mia could have ever imagined. To survive, she must trust her instincts, learn about a world she knows nothing about, and accept her destiny.

Available to buy from....
Amazon.com Amazon.co.uk Barnes and Noble Kobo Paperback

“Downing’s Into The Air is that fresh take on the YA post-apocalyptic vision we’ve all been waiting for. Mia Bryn is a wonderful character—one who starts out charmingly mortal but soon becomes the heroine we, and her people, need her to be. Can’t wait for the next Mia chapter!”Bruce McAllister, Author of the Cybils-nominated The Village Sang to the Sea: A Memoir of Magic

“There’s a new star in the Young Adult firmament—A. K. Downing’s series, beginning with Into The Air, is sure to be a reader favorite right up there with The Hunger Games and The 100 trilogy.” Richard Snodgrass , Author of There’s Something in the Back Yard

WHAT IF YOU ENTERED A WORLD YOU DIDN'T KNOW

“Did you ever feel so lost that you didn’t know if the ground was above your head or below your feet?”

About the author
A. K. Downing is the author of the young adult, adventure novel Into the Air. She grew up in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania and spent her summers exploring the fields, woods and orchards of her grandparents' farm. She studied graphic design at Kent State University and currently works as a Creative Director. She enjoys history, camping, and walking through fields of tall grass, and feels there is no better way to see the world than from the top of a horse. She currently lives in the woods with her husband, daughter, two cats and five chickens. Into the Air is her first novel.

Find the author on the following sites...

Website Facebook Twitter Goodreads Amazon author page

Follow the tour

I received this book through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

NOW FOR THE AUTHOR'S GIVEAWAY

Win a SIGNED book of Into the Air by A.K. Downing - 5 Winners!!
Open Worldwide

Ending on Sunday 9th April at 11.59pm EST

Enter Below and Good Luck !!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Are you a book reviewer or book blogger? Join our book tours reviewers team - Apply Here x

Current book tours open for sign ups HERE

Review of Hurricane in Paradise & Giveaway

2017-03-15T23:49:00.000+08:00

Set against the steamy backdrop of Tarpon Cove's sun-kissed, tropical waters, sexy sleuths and best friends Madison and Fab are at it again dealing with the occasional dead body. Hidden just below the surface of the small town lies an underworld, one steeped in deceit, corruption, and deadly secrets. It's only a matter of time before Madison and Fab find themselves on a collision course with the police, who consider them likely suspects in a murder.

Ride along on their adventures when the duo realizes that a family member is missing and pull themselves away from all jobs to track him down. Theories: walked away, freak accident, kidnapped? If so, then why no ransom demand?

Hurricane in Paradise is book ten in the thrilling and humorous provocative Paradise series, which finds the two waist-deep in mystery and romance. It is a smart, adventurous read that delivers heart-thumping, non-stop action. Join Madison and Fab as they solve the most twisted of cases, through unconventional ¬– and highly entertaining – measures… sometimes in flip-flops.

The Paradise series, are Florida Keys mysteries, “great as stand-alone reads, but they're like chips...you won't be able to devour just one!”

Available to buy from.....

Amazon.com Amazon.co.uk Amazon Paperback

"Deborah Brown's Florida Keys mystery series is highly addictive! The characters are quirky & amusing. The dialogue is snappy. The plot highly entertaining & thrilling. All the oddball cast of characters are back as well as Mad's & Fab's deliciously hunky loves, Creole & Didier."

"Madison and Fab are so much fun to read about along with their better halves. This time there's murder (of course), a missing family member and a crazy grandma! You'll love this book so much!"

"Once again Deborah Brown has written a wonderful humerous highly entertaining book."

Above reviews from Amazon

About the Author

I've been writing, in one way or another for as long as I can remember; writing poetry, short stories, a romance novel secretly stashed under the bed and sappy love letters. Fiction should be fun. I wanted to create the perfect beach book, to make the reader laugh, cry and cheer... and then run out and tell their friends about it.

My love of reading began when I was seven, the day I opened the cover of my first Mrs. Piggle Wiggle book. Mrs. P gave lessons to other children in how to behave and to me I learned to love the written word. I live with my family and demon children aka rescue cats in South Florida.

Find the author on the following sites...

Website Facebook Twitter Pinterest Google+ Goodreads Amazon Author page

Also available in the Paradise Series

Follow the Book Tour

Guest Reviewer: Ruby Hammarstedt for Between the Coverz

This is the first book I read of the series (this is book#10) I got to about the fifth chapter, had to back track and get my investigation mode out and figure out who is who. ( lol) Once I figured out who is who, the story went so smoothly and I really did enjoy every character she wrote! I sure giggled throughout the story. Every character has a different personality and having that best friend - I know everyone has one!!!
Ruby, Reviewer for Between the Coverz blog

5 Stars

I received this book through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

NOW FOR THE AUTHOR'S GIVEAWAY

Win $25 Amazon.com Giftcard / Paypal Cash
(winners choice)
Open Worldwide

Ending on Sunday 19th March at 11.59pm EST

Enter Below and Good Luck !!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Are you a book reviewer or book blogger? Join our book tours reviewers team - Apply Here x

Current book tours open for sign ups HERE

Cat Thursday - Jigglypuff

2017-03-09T15:34:00.003+08:00

Also joining these blog hops. Come and join the fun.

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children - Ransom Riggs

2017-03-07T15:47:00.001+08:00

BOOK

As a child, Jacob was told many stories by his grandfather, Abraham. He talked about the peculiar children he knew in a special home run by Miss Peregrine. As Jacob gets older, he doubts his grandfather's stories, until Abraham is killed and with his dying breath he tells Jacob to find the bird in the loop. Jacob sees a strange creature that no-one else can see.

No-one believes Jacob. Thinking he is grief stricken and in shock, his parents send him to therapy with Dr Golan. But, when Jacob's Aunt gives him a book that his grandfather wanted him to have, he finds a letter that just may prove that Abraham wasn't crazy and nether is Jacob.

It took me a while to finish the book because I had some other commitments (and I confess I got a bit hooked on Netflix as well.) I swayed back and forth with this book, and since I watched the movie when I was half finished with the book (something I don't usually do) I think I got sidetracked.

However, the idea of the peculiar children really appealed to me. The photographs in the book were very interesting, and a great idea of Riggs to use as a writing prompt. It brought together two of my loves - archives and reading.

This is a great little book for your young adult or pre-teen. You could even read it together as a family book. It can start a lot of discussions about how people who were different were treated, how they are treated now and how we should move forward.

If you liked Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events, The Spiderwick Chronicles, Coraline, or Frankenstein, I think you will enjoy this book.

Book trailer:

MOVIE

The movie stays fairly true to the plot of the book, but it gets into the action much faster. Don't read any further if you haven't both read the first book and seen the movie.

See complete post »

Wily & the Canine Pandemic

2017-03-01T18:40:00.000+08:00

My Review:

This book has a fast pace which tweens will love. In my experience, young readers and early teens, don't want to wade through too much information, they want to get to the action. This book takes them there. Weidenbenner sets a rhythm that ensures your tweens will get pulled into the story and will be eager to find out what happens.

I had a tear in my eye when the dogs were dying, then I was cheering for Wily and his pals to solve the dilemma and make a difference in the world. This book reminded me a little of the movie, Tomorrowland. There was also some lovely mythology woven through the story.

I really enjoy reading books that take me back to childhood. I think this would be a great book to read together as a family or as a class novel. There are lots of opportunities for discussion about choices, and feelings. I think any book that gets kids thinking and talking about how they feel about things is a winner.

Scroll down for Book Blurb, Author Information and a Giveaway.

See complete post »

Cat Thursday - Cats & Boxes

2017-02-23T14:59:00.000+08:00

Cat Thursday - Cats on Thursdays

2017-02-16T15:08:00.000+08:00

Valentine's Love Special - A few of my favourite things + some free ebooks!

2017-02-14T10:09:00.000+08:00

Click on the pictures to go to the product buying page.

This post contains affiliate links, at no cost to you.

Scroll to the end for some links to free books.
(These books were free at the time of posting, please double check before you click. Thanks.)

Planner Love Stickers from Franklin Planners

Heart hot water bottle and cover from Victorian Trading Co.

The Vintage Tea Party Book from Alibris

Fluffy Panda Socks from Dotti

Hogwarts Cap from Jay Jays

Overalls from Just Jeans

Coloring Book from Kobo

Eyemask from Peter Alexander

Velvet Diamante Choker from Portmans

Unicorn Tee from Rosegal

Glitter pens from Smiggle

Downton Abbey Earbobs from the Victoria Trading Co.

Have a beautiful Valentine's Day my lovelies. xx

My Bookish Party

2017-02-10T12:23:00.000+08:00

Last weekend we celebrated my birthday bookish style. Everyone was really in the spirit getting dressed as various characters.

My sister made some gorgeous decorations using book pages, including bunting, signs, table runners and platters. Details and links for some of the decorations are below.

I also did some other bookish decorations including Alice in Wonderland/Through the Looking Glass, Harry Potter, Dr Who, Peter Rabbit, and Peter Pan. I also used the Once Upon a Time theme throughout.

Food included all of the usual party fare such as pizza, wraps, sausage rolls, fruits, meats and cheeses, and a dim sum selection. My Brother-in-law and sister made some yummy desserts, and my friend brought some Harry Potter cupcakes. I threw together a mudcake at the last minute because my hubby thought the grandkids might enjoy singing "Happy Birthday". We also had far too many sweets including chocolate frogs, pirates gold, Jack's Beans, the Evil Queen's hearts and Golden Snitches to name a few.

LINKS:

Harry Potter Potions Labels from Over the Big Moon

Ministry of Magic Sticker from Wish

Golden Snitch Wings Printable from Party Delights

Hogwarts Express Ticket via Harry Potter Paraphernalia Blog

Bookworms Bag Topper from Mrs Gilchrist's Class

Harry Potter Cupcakes from Call Me Cupcake

Cat Thursday - Movie Cats

2017-02-09T09:38:00.002+08:00

Here's a recasting of some movies using cats

Via I Can Has Cheezburger

This guy has started an IG with his cat, to recreate some pawesome movie moments.

Week 1: Guess the film! #catsofinstagram #cat #cats #movie #movies #moviecats #burmese #film #filmcats #quiz
A photo posted by Movie Cats (@moviecats) on Sep 18, 2016 at 10:46am PDT

The Secret Garden Teahouse

2017-02-05T13:06:00.001+08:00

My beautiful daughter has had more than her fair share on her plate lately, so a couple of weeks ago we just went for a quiet, kid-free, mother-daughter catch up.

The Secret Garden is a beautiful Bed and Breakfast for adults only. Recently the owners have opened their gardens for lovely teas. perfect for wedding showers, baby showers, or that quiet alone time you need to think. We were looked after by our friendly host and the scones were yummy served with locally made jam.

Secret Garden Teahouse Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/secretgardenteahouse
Gran and Pops: Homemade Jams, Pickles & Marmalades Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Gran-and-Pops-Home-Made-Jams-Pickles-and-Marmalades-400795856653692/

I was not compensated in any way for this feature. I enjoy supporting Western Australian small businesses.

Reflections on turning 50

2017-02-01T11:06:00.000+08:00

Today is the first day of the rest of my life. Yesterday I turned 50. It was bittersweet. I feel wiser and I feel glad to have made it this far. However, it is the anniversary of my brother’s passing in a few days. He died at 51. I wonder if he had known on his fiftieth birthday that he had one more year to live, whether he would have done anything differently.

I don’t think there was a lot he would have changed. He had found his Zen, travelled, realised many of his dreams and saw the value of family time. He probably would have prioritised his health. He had people relying on him and he prioritised them over his self-care. This is something I need to be aware of myself.

So this year, what will I do differently?

1) I will commit to an exercise regime. Ironically, this fell by the wayside when my brother died.

2) I will stop doing things because I should. Especially things that go against my gut instinct. I have been practising saying no to things, this will now become a habit. If I don’t want to - I will say no.

3) I will consider my time valuable. This means not wasting time. Not being used. Charging what I’m worth. Using my time well.

4) I will spend my time with people who give as well as take. I have some beautiful friends now who understand my quirkiness and accept it. In the past I had some people who would use me but not give anything back because they were either selfish or I am not the sort of person they would be friends with. I understand that I am not everyone’s cup of tea. This is true of all of us. However, nerdy people who are a bit quirky and different, suffer continuously from this. People use us for our skills and knowledge but don’t really want to be our friend. I will no longer accept this.

5) I will draw positive energy towards me and repel negative energy.

I have been curating a list of positive songs. I would love some feedback from people suggesting more songs.

Here is what I have started:

Kate’s List of Power Songs

Try Everything – Shakira

Dream On – Aerosmith

Beautiful – Christina Aguilera

Permission to Shine – Bachelor Girl

I won’t Back Down – Tom Petty

Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive - Al Jarreau

Walking on Sunshine – Katrina and the Waves

I have also been curating a list of

awesome positive women who send the right message that resonates with me. This is the start of my list. I have done posts on a couple of these women but will probably be doing further posts this year.

Maybe you have suggestions of people who seem the right fit for me.

Karen Salmonson
Brene Brown
Dianna Bowes
Leonie Dawson
Taryn Brumfitt
Louise Hay
Elaine Aron
Rachael Green
Sark
Elizabeth Gilbert
Holly-Ann Martin
Kennedy Walsh
Kavin Senapathy
Vanessa Woods
Carly Fleischmann

Feeling like some Regency Fiction? - Books from Mariel Grey + Giveaway

2017-01-27T11:47:00.000+08:00

Surrender of Trust (Book 1)

Lucy Goodwin knows more about horse breeding than a proper young lady should. Her brother’s thoroughbred business has given her purpose and independence, but when an accident leaves her solely in charge, despair and destruction threaten her every move. Trapped in an impossible position, Lucy must do the right thing and watch their dreams crumble, or save their livelihood at a cost too great to bear.

Lord Philip Lyton, Marquess of Chalifour is a member of the prestigious Jockey Club, dedicated to eliminating cheating in horse racing. Trouble raises its ugly head when his business partner falls foul of an accident and he’s suddenly forced to deal with the man’s sister, who seems alarmingly out of her depth. Chalifour respects Lucy’s steely resolve, but knows that single-mindedness can be the most dangerous trait of all.

She might be beautiful and beguiling, but Lucy Goodwin is keeping secrets and Chalifour is determined to find out what they are.
Can be read as a stand-alone read.

Available to buy from....
Amazon.com Amazon.co.uk Barnes and Noble iBooks GPlay Kobo Paperback

A Gentleman's Surrender (Book 2)

Call her a romantic--or a fool, Lady Monique Cathdon is determined to marry for love. After watching her parents tolerate an arranged betrothal, life seems too short to be wasted on keeping up appearances.

After all, what's the point of having a heart if one refuses to follow it?

With a smile the devil himself might be proud of, James Stanton is not what her mother would call a matrimonial prospect. Still, there's something about the young man that sends Lady Monique's heart thumping around her chest, and silences her voice of reason.

Unfortunately for Lady Monique, the stakes are high, and young ladies of the ton make for very poor gamblers. Especially when James Stanton is on the hunt for revenge, and won't let an innocent woman--or his own passionate desires--get in the way of righting past wrongs.

Can be read as a stand-alone read.

Available to buy from....
Amazon.com Amazon.co.uk Barnes and Noble iBooks GPlay Kobo Paperback

About the author
From the moment she could put pen to paper, Mariel Grey knew she wanted to be a writer. Like all good adventures however, it didn’t happen overnight; it was after several decades of working in litigation that the desire to create dramatic worlds and characters became too great to ignore. Her first foray into historical romance, Surrender of Trust, explored the grime and glamour of regency horse racing, following the determined but impoverished Lucy Goodwin and upright Lord Chalifour. Her second novel, A Gentleman’s Surrender, introduced the innocent Lady Monique and tortured Mr. Stanton, both struggling to find love in a world filled with deceit.

Though entirely at home in the ballrooms and street alleys of London past, Mariel Grey is currently working on a contemporary story set in Florida, a landscape dear to the author’s heart. When she isn’t conjuring words on her computer screen, Grey can be found on the water fishing, snorkeling, and enjoying the incredible natural beauty of her home.

Mariel has a wonderful husband (the hero of her own romantic story) as well as two mischievous rescue kittens (who are quite happy to play the role of villains). In addition to being a dutiful wife and animal wrangler, Mariel is a member of the Romance Writers of America and affiliated chapter of the Ancient City Romance Authors.

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