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		<title>Book Blast: Wacky Wishes by Susette Williams, Illustrated by Jack Foster – Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FrugalExperiments/~3/A2QC_lzQXLo/book-blast-wacky-wishes-by-susette-williams-illustrated-by-jack-foster-enter-to-win-a-25-amazon-gift-card.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/book-blast-wacky-wishes-by-susette-williams-illustrated-by-jack-foster-enter-to-win-a-25-amazon-gift-card.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 May 2013 03:00:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Giveaways]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>Title: Wacky Wishes By Susette Williams Author, Jack Foster Illustrator About the Book: Tommy and Suzie find a wishing well and like children do, they begin making wishes. Imagine their surprise when their wishes start to come true! Are spacesuits the new dress code at school? What’s Tommy going to do with three heads? You’ve [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8260">Book Blast: Wacky Wishes by Susette Williams, Illustrated by Jack Foster - Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/book-blast-wacky-wishes-by-susette-williams-illustrated-by-jack-foster-enter-to-win-a-25-amazon-gift-card.html">Book Blast: Wacky Wishes by Susette Williams, Illustrated by Jack Foster &#8211; Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><center><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB00CAHCP4U%2Fref%3Das_li_ss_il%3Fie%3DUTF8%26amp%3Bcamp%3D1789%26amp%3Bcreative%3D390957%26amp%3BcreativeASIN%3DB00CAHCP4U%26amp%3BlinkCode%3Das2%26amp%3Btag%3Dcross0e2-20&sref=rss"><img alt="" src="http://ws.assoc-amazon.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&amp;ASIN=B00CAHCP4U&amp;Format=_SL160_&amp;ID=AsinImage&amp;MarketPlace=US&amp;ServiceVersion=20070822&amp;WS=1&amp;tag=cross0e2-20" border="0" /></a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cross0e2-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B00CAHCP4U" width="1" height="1" border="0" /></center><strong>Title:</strong> <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB00CAHCP4U%2Fref%3Das_li_ss_tl%3Fie%3DUTF8%26amp%3Bcamp%3D1789%26amp%3Bcreative%3D390957%26amp%3BcreativeASIN%3DB00CAHCP4U%26amp%3BlinkCode%3Das2%26amp%3Btag%3Dcross0e2-20&sref=rss">Wacky Wishes</a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cross0e2-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B00CAHCP4U" width="1" height="1" border="0" /> <em>By Susette Williams Author, Jack Foster Illustrator</em></p>
<h4>About the Book:</h4>
<p>Tommy and Suzie find a wishing well and like children do, they begin making wishes. Imagine their surprise when their wishes start to come true! Are spacesuits the new dress code at school? What’s Tommy going to do with three heads? You’ve heard of, “Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.” When Tommy and Suzie&#8217;s wishing gets out of hand, will they be able to wish away the mess they&#8217;ve created before their wishes run out?<span id="more-8260"></span></p>
<p><center><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fgp%2Fproduct%2FB00CAHCP4U%2Fref%3Das_li_ss_tl%3Fie%3DUTF8%26amp%3Bcamp%3D1789%26amp%3Bcreative%3D390957%26amp%3BcreativeASIN%3DB00CAHCP4U%26amp%3BlinkCode%3Das2%26amp%3Btag%3Dcross0e2-20&sref=rss">Buy on Kindle</a><img style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=cross0e2-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=B00CAHCP4U" width="1" height="1" border="0" /></center><strong>Susette Williams Author, Jack Foster Illustrator</strong><br />
<img class="alignright size-full wp-image-2925" alt="Susette_300_dpi" src="http://crossreads.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Susette_300_dpi1.gif" width="150" height="202" />Susette Williams is a Best Selling Author. She loves writing various genres, both for children and adults. She usually can&#8217;t resist the urge to let her ornery sense of humor shine through in one of her characters and has always believed that laughter helps you deal with the obstacles life puts in your way. Susette and her husband have six wonderful children, all with intriguing and different personalities, like the characters she creates in her novels.</p>
<p>Jack Foster has illustrated over 25 children&#8217;s books. He is a Sunday school teacher, art teacher and the father of five terrific children and eleven wonderful grand kids. He lives just outside of Chicago with his lovely wife, dog and cat. Check out his work at <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jacksillustrations.blogspot.com&sref=rss">www.jacksillustrations.blogspot.com</a></p>
<p><strong>Follow Susette Williams</strong><br />
<a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsusettewilliams.com&sref=rss">Website</a> | <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FChildrensAuthorSusetteWilliams&sref=rss">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftwitter.com%2FSusetteWilliams&sref=rss">Twitter</a></p>
<h3>Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card!</h3>
<p>Enter below to enter a $25 amazon gift card, sponsored by author Susette Williams Author, Jack Foster Illustrator!</p>
<p><a class="rafl" id="rc-39a7685" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rafflecopter.com%2Frafl%2Fdisplay%2F39a7685%2F&sref=rss" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
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<p><em>This book blast is hosted by <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcrossreads.com&sref=rss">Crossreads</a>.</em></p>
<p><em>We would like to send out a special THANK YOU to all of the CrossReads <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcrossreads.com%2Fbook-blast-bloggers%2F&sref=rss">book blast bloggers</a>!</em></p>
<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8260">Book Blast: Wacky Wishes by Susette Williams, Illustrated by Jack Foster - Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/book-blast-wacky-wishes-by-susette-williams-illustrated-by-jack-foster-enter-to-win-a-25-amazon-gift-card.html">Book Blast: Wacky Wishes by Susette Williams, Illustrated by Jack Foster &#8211; Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p><div class="feedflare">
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		<title>Mother of Pearl Day 9: Mother Ship by Melody Murray</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FrugalExperiments/~3/oG-2H7XsSWs/mother-of-pearl-day-9-mother-ship-by-melody-murray.html</link>
		<comments>http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-9-mother-ship-by-melody-murray.html#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 12 May 2013 14:05:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[12 Pearls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8245</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day. AND [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8245">Mother of Pearl Day 9: Mother Ship by Melody Murray</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-9-mother-ship-by-melody-murray.html">Mother of Pearl Day 9: Mother Ship by Melody Murray</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fcategory%2Fmother-of-pearl&sref=rss" target="_blank"><img title="" alt="Pearl Girls McSweeney" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/ImageProxyServlet.png" width="200" height="125" /></a><strong>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering.</strong> Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day.</p>
<p><strong>AND . . . do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful handcrafted pearl necklace and a <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjoynindia.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">JOYN India</a> bag.</strong> Enter at the bottom of this post. The contest runs 5/4-5/13, and the winner will be announced on 5/14. Contest is only open to U.S. residents.</p>
<p>If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit <strong><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pearlgirls.info%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">www.pearlgirls.info</a>, <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fblog%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">subscribe to our blog</a>,</strong> and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fpearlgirls%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">charities</a> that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbookstore.inspiringvoices.com%2FProducts%2FSKU-000475734%2FMother-of-Pearl.aspx&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong><em>Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith</em></strong></a> to help support Pearl Girls™.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong> </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>And to all you MOMS out there, Happy Mother’s Day!<span id="more-8245"></span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">~</div>
<h3>Mother Ship by Melody Murray</h3>
<p>Mother Ship (N.) &#8211; <em>a ship that serves or carries one or more smaller ships.</em></p>
<p>Raising two boys in India is quite nice, really. We have monkeys, scooters, plenty of dirt, and mountains. The challenges are comical. I found very quickly on that if you don’t laugh, you’ll cry. It’s been an excellent motto for our three years thus far, one I learned shortly after our arrival here in June of 2010.</p>
<p>We’d been in India for just three days when I had my first major meltdown. Our two boys, ages three and four, were sitting in big plastic buckets in our smelly bathroom, covered with mosquito bites, jetlagged as can be. I was frantically pouring cold water over them, trying to scrub off the India grime that had caked on their scrawny little bodies. I was having to hold them like puppy dogs so they wouldn’t scurry out from underneath the cold water. It was a far cry from the sweet, warm, bubbly, happy bath time we’d experienced together for the past four years in the States! Talk about culture shock. They were in shock. I was in shock. I’m sure the neighbors were in shock, too. I’m not sure my boys have ever seen me scream, cry, and stomp that much. <strong>Thank God it is just a memory now.</strong></p>
<p>Somehow, by God’s grace, we’ve figured out life here. It looks much different than I had ever thought it would look, especially as a mother. We don’t go to the library, make elaborate crafts, play T-ball, shop at Target, sing in church choir, or take family bike rides. I have had to redefine my ideal upbringing for my children and have had to let go of many expectations. But I’ve managed to grasp hold of a new set of dreams.</p>
<p>My children are global kids. They have an incredible adventure every day. They see the “majority world” firsthand. I think they are some of the most privileged kids I know. I’ve stopped feeling sorry for myself that my kids don’t get to go to ballgames or have a huge tree house or wear cute clothes. Why focus on what I think they’ve lost, only to lose sight of what they’re gaining?</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2F%3Fattachment_id%3D5617&sref=rss" ><img class="aligncenter wp-image-5617" alt="murraypg" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/murraypg-504x654.jpg" width="403" height="523" /></a></div>
<p><strong>My attitude shift didn’t come easily.</strong> I can be quite stubborn. I clung to what I knew and what I thought was “normal” and “right,” as all of us moms do. I’d cry after phone conversations with friends back home who had their children signed up for karate, soccer, and swim lessons, with loads of choices for good schools, churches, and neighborhoods. I had nothing of the sort available for my kids, and I felt bitter and resentful.</p>
<p>But then I slowly began to change. Slowly, after months of getting over culture shock and cold baths, we began to love this place and the people we were with. We began to know them, understand them, become like them. Our community here became our family. Just this week, I’ve been sick with an awful kidney infection, and my living room has been full of my Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian friends, bringing me food, rubbing my feet, playing with my children, washing my dishes. I’ve never experienced community in this way before. My boys are loved so well by so many. <strong>And they are learning how to love back, even when it’s not easy.</strong></p>
<p>My attitude shift didn’t come quickly, but when it happened, it took a 180°. I realized how wrong I’d been. These people I live with—their kids don’t have organized sports, church choirs, or fancy vacations either. Their kids aren’t signed up for after-school activities and aren’t becoming multi-skilled elementary school prodigies. Yet, in spite of this, they are content. Like none I’ve ever seen. They love each other. Like none I’ve ever seen. They have very little, yet they have so very much.</p>
<p><strong>In the western world of comparisons and endless striving, I believe we sometimes lose touch of the things we actually care most about</strong>. I know most of us moms actually don’t care whether our children are the best at T-ball or whether their crafts look better than the next kid’s. But I think we all care deeply that our kids are loved, and that they know how to love. We all have a common dream that our kids will grow up to be world-changers, to strive for what is right, to love the unloved, to see the world in a different way. These are the deepest dreams of moms. So let’s not forget that the most important things we can give our kids are not the things we can buy them or sign them up for. One of the greatest gifts we can give to our children is to give them sails, let them explore new things, meet new people, and learn to make lasting change in this world.</p>
<p>So join me this Mother’s Day. <strong>Let’s all be “mother ships,” leading our kids to new adventures, new beginnings, new relationships</strong>. Let’s serve and carry our little ones to places they can only dream of, whether it be making dinner for a neighbor, smiling at the homeless man in front of the grocery store, volunteering at a soup kitchen, or moving to India. Let’s take them with us and teach them how to sail.</p>
<p><em>“A ship in port is safe, but that’s not what ships are built for.”</em> —Grace Murray Hopper</p>
<div style="text-align: center;">###</div>
<div style="text-align: center;"></div>
<p><a style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2F%3Fattachment_id%3D5594&sref=rss" ><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-5594" alt="068" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/068-252x181.jpeg" width="252" height="181" /></a>In June 2010, an opportunity arose to work with a small needy community in the Himalayas, so David and Melody Murray and their two young boys packed their bags and moved to Rajpur, North India. Mel has grown JOYN, fulfilling her passion to connect artisans with western markets. They now have a diverse and growing team of Americans, Australians, Indians, Tibetans and Nepalis working together to create a community that strives to take care of each other and bring opportunity to as many as they can. Visit her <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjoynindia.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong>website</strong></a> for more information.<br />
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<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8245">Mother of Pearl Day 9: Mother Ship by Melody Murray</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-9-mother-ship-by-melody-murray.html">Mother of Pearl Day 9: Mother Ship by Melody Murray</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p><div class="feedflare">
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		<title>Mother of Pearl Day 8: My Final Words to My Mother By Lisa Takeuchi Cullen</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FrugalExperiments/~3/ieZXX7gM_M0/mother-of-pearl-day-8-my-final-words-to-my-mother-by-lisa-takeuchi-cullen.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Sat, 11 May 2013 14:06:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[12 Pearls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8242</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day. AND [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8242">Mother of Pearl Day 8: My Final Words to My Mother By Lisa Takeuchi Cullen</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-8-my-final-words-to-my-mother-by-lisa-takeuchi-cullen.html">Mother of Pearl Day 8: My Final Words to My Mother By Lisa Takeuchi Cullen</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fcategory%2Fmother-of-pearl&sref=rss" target="_blank"><img title="" alt="Pearl Girls McSweeney" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/ImageProxyServlet.png" width="200" height="125" /></a><strong>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering.</strong> Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day.</p>
<p><strong>AND . . . do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful handcrafted pearl necklace and a <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjoynindia.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">JOYN India</a> bag.</strong> Enter at the bottom of this post. The contest runs 5/4-5/13, and the winner will be announced on 5/14. Contest is only open to U.S. residents.</p>
<p>If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit <strong><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pearlgirls.info%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">www.pearlgirls.info</a>, <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fblog%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">subscribe to our blog</a>,</strong> and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fpearlgirls%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">charities</a> that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbookstore.inspiringvoices.com%2FProducts%2FSKU-000475734%2FMother-of-Pearl.aspx&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong><em>Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith</em></strong></a> to help support Pearl Girls™.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong> </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>And to all you MOMS out there, Happy Mother’s Day!<span id="more-8242"></span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">~</div>
<h3>My Final Words to My Mother By Lisa Takeuchi Cullen</h3>
<p>The day had come.</p>
<p>My mother lay pressed against her pillow, her skin like baking paper, her limbs disposable chopsticks. She had not moved or spoken for days.</p>
<p><strong>In those last days we rarely left her side, my three siblings and I.</strong> Between us we had eleven children, the youngest my newborn, whom we had baptized a week ago right here by my mother’s bedside. The children tumbled and danced around the hospice floor, admonished by us to keep quiet, keep quiet! They had already said their good-byes to Nana. Now it was our turn.</p>
<p>The hospice nurses had told us of the final signs. She will cease to wake, even briefly. Her fingers and toes will turn blue. Her breathing will grow shallow and ragged.</p>
<p>Then we heard it. My mother took a breath. That’s all it was—a sip of air. We knew it was time. We rushed around her, my siblings and I, and all together began to sob.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2F%3Fattachment_id%3D5598&sref=rss" ><img class="aligncenter wp-image-5598" alt="cullenpg" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/cullenpg-504x654.jpg" width="403" height="523" /></a></div>
<p>And this is what I said to my mother before she died: “I’ll be all right, Mommy. Don’t worry. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be all right.”</p>
<p>Not “I love you.” Not “I’ll miss you.” Not “thank you for everything.” Why? I asked myself that night as I cradled my colicky newborn, both of us wailing. Why did I choose that moment to inform my mother of my own well-being? Why did I feel this was the very thing she needed to know as she drew her last breath?</p>
<p><strong>It took me years as a parent to understand: As mothers, that is exactly what we want to know.</strong> We want to know our children are safe. We need to know they’ll be all right as they journey into the world without us by their sides.</p>
<p>I don’t know if my mother heard me. But if she did, I hope my final words eased her journey just a hair. That she believed and trusted in my well-being, and then let go.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;">###</div>
<div style="text-align: center;"></div>
<p><a style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2F%3Fattachment_id%3D5562&sref=rss" ><img class="alignleft wp-image-5562" alt="The Pastors Wives_LisaTakeuchiCullen_cr Matt Dine" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/The-Pastors-Wives_LisaTakeuchiCullen_cr-Matt-Dine-252x295.jpg" width="176" height="207" /></a>Lisa Takeuchi Cullen is the author of <em>Pastors’ Wives</em>, a new novel from Penguin/Plume, and <em>The Ordained</em>, a 2013 CBS drama pilot. Previously, she was a staff writer for <em>Time</em> magazine. Readers can friend her on <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLisaTakeuchiCullen&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong>Facebook</strong></a>, follow her on Twitter @lisacullen, or visit her website at <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lisacullen.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong>www.lisacullen.com</strong></a>.</p>
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<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8242">Mother of Pearl Day 8: My Final Words to My Mother By Lisa Takeuchi Cullen</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-8-my-final-words-to-my-mother-by-lisa-takeuchi-cullen.html">Mother of Pearl Day 8: My Final Words to My Mother By Lisa Takeuchi Cullen</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p><div class="feedflare">
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		<title>Mother of Pearl Day 7: The Pursuit of Imperfection by Beth Vogt</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FrugalExperiments/~3/3SLMfk8RrfY/mother-of-pearl-day-7-the-pursuit-of-imperfection-by-beth-vogt.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2013 14:04:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[12 Pearls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8240</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day. AND [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8240">Mother of Pearl Day 7: The Pursuit of Imperfection by Beth Vogt</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-7-the-pursuit-of-imperfection-by-beth-vogt.html">Mother of Pearl Day 7: The Pursuit of Imperfection by Beth Vogt</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fcategory%2Fmother-of-pearl&sref=rss" target="_blank"><img title="" alt="Pearl Girls McSweeney" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/ImageProxyServlet.png" width="200" height="125" /></a><strong>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering.</strong> Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day.</p>
<p><strong>AND . . . do enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful handcrafted pearl necklace and a <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjoynindia.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">JOYN India</a> bag.</strong> Enter at the bottom of this post. The contest runs 5/4-5/13, and the winner will be announced on 5/14. Contest is only open to U.S. residents.</p>
<p>If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit <strong><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pearlgirls.info%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">www.pearlgirls.info</a>, <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fblog%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">subscribe to our blog</a>,</strong> and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fpearlgirls%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">charities</a> that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbookstore.inspiringvoices.com%2FProducts%2FSKU-000475734%2FMother-of-Pearl.aspx&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong><em>Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith</em></strong></a> to help support Pearl Girls™.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong> </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>And to all you MOMS out there, Happy Mother’s Day!<span id="more-8240"></span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">~</div>
<h3>The Pursuit of Imperfection by Beth Vogt</h3>
<p>In my early mommy-ing years, I was all about perfection. I wasn’t going to be just a good mom—oh, no. I grabbed the virtual performance bar and shoved it way out of my reach.</p>
<p>It didn’t take long for that bar to come crashing down on my head. <strong>Perfection was toppled by the harsh reality that, at times, I was an angry mom.</strong> I hit my knees and begged God for forgiveness, for patience, for the ability to love my children one day at a time . . . sometimes one hour at a time.</p>
<p>I embraced 1 Peter 4:8: Love covers a multitude of mistakes, even altering it a bit so that it met my need. My version of 1 Peter 4:8 became: Love covers a multitude of mommy-mistakes. There was no way I could pretend that I was perfect, but I could do everything possible so that my children knew that I loved them, despite my imperfections.</p>
<p>Fast forward through toddlers and teenagers to being the mother of a twenty-something son, two late-teen daughters, and one (surprise!) elementary-school-age daughter.</p>
<p>During lunch one day with Katie Beth and Amy, my two oldest daughters, <strong>Katie Beth looked at me and asked, “Do you want to know what the best thing was about you as a mom?”</strong></p>
<p>Did I? How could I say no to an unexpected “her children will rise up and call her blessed” moment? I assured Katie Beth I absolutely wanted to know the best thing about me as a mom. She looked at me and said, “The best thing about you as a mom was that you weren’t perfect.”</p>
<p>Oh. I admit I expected something . . . more. I joked with my daughter, telling her I wished she’d told me this sooner, as I wasted too much time trying to be perfect. We all laughed and the conversation moved on.</p>
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<p>A few weeks later as a prepared a talk on motherhood and perfection for a moms group, I asked Katie Beth, “Can you tell me again why not being perfect was the best thing about me as a mom?”</p>
<p>She emailed me a letter that read: <em>So many kids grow up thinking their parents are up on this pedestal. They think their parents can do no wrong, but then when they fail at something or make a mistake . . . it can tend to devastate those kids. Also, it taught me that being a Christian does not equal perfection. So many people think because they are a Christian they have to be perfect, and I learned from you that, while you are a very loving mother, you are not perfect. It helps me know you don’t expect me to be perfect. </em></p>
<p><strong><br />
</strong><br />
<strong>Our children don’t want perfect moms—but they do want to know we love them.</strong> And maybe by admitting we’re not perfect, our kids will avoid the perfectionist trap too.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;">###</div>
<div style="text-align: center;"></div>
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<p>Beth K. Vogt believes God’s best is often behind the doors marked “Never.” After being a nonfiction writer and editor who said she&#8217;d never write fiction, Beth has proudly authored two novels, <em>Wish You Were Here </em>and the newly<em> </em>released <em>Catch a Falling Star</em>. Connect with Beth at <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bethvogt.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong>bethvogt.com</strong></a>.<br />
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		<title>It Happened At The Fair by Deeanne Gist Book Review and Giveaway</title>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2013 01:09:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Book Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Historical Fiction]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>Disclosure of Material Connection: Thanks to Litfuse for providing this book in exchange for my review. I received this book free from the Publisher or Author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Title: It Happened At The Fair Author: Deeanne Gist Publisher: Howard Books [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8254">It Happened At The Fair by Deeanne Gist Book Review and Giveaway</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/it-happened-at-the-fair-by-deeanne-gist-book-review-and-giveaway.html">It Happened At The Fair by Deeanne Gist Book Review and Giveaway</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: #333333; font-size: x-small;"><em>Disclosure of Material Connection: Thanks to Litfuse for providing this book in exchange for my review. I received this book free from the Publisher or Author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.</em></span></p>
<p><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-8255" alt="It-Happened-at-the-Fair-e1360305309520" src="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/It-Happened-at-the-Fair-e1360305309520-195x300.jpg" width="195" height="300" />Title: It Happened At The Fair<br />
Author: Deeanne Gist<br />
Publisher: Howard Books<br />
ISBN: 978-1-4516-9237-2<br />
Genre: Historical Fiction<br />
SRP: $15.99</p>
<h4 style="border-bottom: 1px solid #e6e6e6;">My Thoughts</h4>
<p>It Happened At The Fair by Deeanne Gist is an historical fiction book that takes place at the 1893 Chicago World&#8217;s Fair. Cullen McNamara&#8217;s father puts the family farm up for collateral in order to send his son to exhibit his latest invention at the World&#8217;s Fair, in the hopes that his invention will be a huge success and help him raise his family out of debt.<span id="more-8254"></span></p>
<p>While he is thrilled to be there, and hopeful that he&#8217;ll sell his invention to many businesses, he has major issues with being able to hear potential buyers in the Machinery Hall where he is exhibiting his sprinkler system. After speaking with an insurance broker that would like to partner with him and his invention, Cullen decides to hire the services of Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to teach him the art of lip reading. Della is leary of taking on the assignment, but feels duty bound, as Cullen rescued her on opening day of the fair, and his offer to let her decide where to tour in the fair seals the deal for her. The story follows their growing relationship as Della teaches him how succeed at reading the lips of his potential customers.</p>
<p>I have to admit, I haven&#8217;t completely finished reading this book. In the beginning, the author uses a strange way of spelling certain words, to connote how Cullen actually hears. I personally found it distracting and began to get a bit frustrated, until I realized that she was trying to make her readers feel as Cullen would feel, since he is slowly losing his hearing. Although this device was distracting to me, it probably stems more from my own pet peeve (I&#8217;m a bit of a grammar policewoman <img src='http://www.frugalexperiments.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':-)' class='wp-smiley' /> ) than from it&#8217;s use in the book.</p>
<p>I love the details about the Chicago World&#8217;s Fair that the author sprinkles generously throughout the book. It gives a real insight into the hustle and bustle excitement that visitors must have felt when visiting the fair. I intend to finish reading this novel, because I am totally enthralled with the characters and want to see where their relationship goes. Plus, I want to know if Cullen ever sells his invention. If you love a good historical fiction book, especially one filled with details, you&#8217;ll want to read this one.</p>
<p>Read what others have to say about <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2Fauthor%2Fdgist+&sref=rss" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">It Happened At The Fair</a>. <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fow.ly%2Fkomrd&sref=rss" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Buy a copy</a> for yourself.</p>
<h4 style="border-bottom: 1px solid #e6e6e6;">About the Book</h4>
<p>A transporting historical novel about a promising young inventor, his struggle with loss, and the attractive teacher who changes his life, all set against the razzle-dazzle of the 1893 Chicago World&#8217;s Fair.</p>
<p>Gambling everything, including the family farm, Cullen McNamara travels to the 1893 Chicago World&#8217;s Fair with his most recent invention. But the noise in the Fair&#8217;s Machinery Palace makes it impossible to communicate with potential buyers. In an act of desperation, he hires Della Wentworth, a teacher of the deaf, to tutor him in the art of lip-reading.</p>
<p>The young teacher is reluctant to participate, and Cullen has trouble keeping his mind on his lessons while intently watching her lips. Like the newly invented Ferris Wheel, he is caught in a whirl between his girl back home, his dreams as an inventor, and his unexpected attraction to his new tutor. Can he keep his feet on the ground, or will he be carried away?</p>
<h4 style="border-bottom: 1px solid #e6e6e6;">About the Author</h4>
<p>Deeanne Gist&#8212;known to her family, friends, and fans as Dee&#8212;has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very fun, very original historicals. She has received numerous RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and rave reviews. Deeanne has a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&amp;M. She has written for People, Parents, and Parenting. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and has four grown children. She has a very active online community on her website at <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2FIWantHerBook.com&sref=rss" target="_blank">IWantHerBook.com</a> and at <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2FFacebook.com%2FDeesFriends&sref=rss" target="_blank">Facebook.com/DeesFriends</a>.</p>
<p><center><b>Enter Today &#8211; 4/29 &#8211; 5/22!</b><b><br />
</b><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2Fcampaigns%2Fithappenedatthefair&sref=rss"> <img alt="Deeanne Gist It Happened at the Fair iPad Mini Giveaway" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/It-happened-at-the-fair-giveaway300.png" width="170" height="150" /> </a></center></p>
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		<title>Please Help Stamp Out Hunger This Saturday, May 11, 2013</title>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 23:03:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[PSA]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8248</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Did you know? 1 in 6 Americans are facing hunger. More than 50 million people, including nearly 17 million children, are facing hunger. Nearly 6 million Americans are fed by food banks each week. The National Association of Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger food drive—which is always held on the second Saturday in May—is the [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8248">Please Help Stamp Out Hunger This Saturday, May 11, 2013</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/stamp-out-hunger.html">Please Help Stamp Out Hunger This Saturday, May 11, 2013</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Did you know?</h2>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">1 in 6 Americans are facing hunger.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">More than 50 million people, including nearly 17 million children, are facing hunger.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Nearly 6 million Americans are fed by food banks each week.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8249" alt="food banks drive" src="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/food-banks-drive.jpg" width="185" height="273" /><span id="more-8248"></span></p>
<p>The National Association of Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger food drive—which is always held on the second Saturday in May—is the largest one-day food drive in America. Benefiting Feeding America—and now in its 21st year—the event provides relief to millions of Americans struggling to put food on the table. To learn more, go to: <a title="Help Stamp Out Hunger" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.helpstampouthunger.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">http://www.helpstampouthunger.com/</a>.<br />
YOU CAN HELP in Just 3 Easy Steps!</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-8251" alt="Stamp Out Hunger" src="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Stamp-Out-Hunger-300x162.png" width="300" height="162" />1.     Purchase non-perishable food items.<br />
Examples of appropriate food items include:</p>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Jars of peanut butter</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Canned fish</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Packaged dried fruits</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">Boxes of cereal</span></li>
</ul>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-8250" alt="shopping list" src="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/shopping-list-300x271.jpg" width="300" height="271" />2.       Place food items into a bag and leave the bag <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">at</span> your mailbox on Saturday, May 11th.<br />
Your local letter carrier will pick up your bag and deliver it to your local food bank</p>
<p>3.       Spread the word.<br />
Tell everyone you know to leave non-perishable food by their <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">mail boxes</span>, too.</p>
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		<title>Mother of Pearl Day 6: History has a Way of Repeating Itself by Tricia Goyer</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FrugalExperiments/~3/rIujaa0mobQ/mother-of-pearl-day-6-history-has-a-way-of-repeating-itself-by-tricia-goyer.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 14:05:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[12 Pearls]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day. AND [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8235">Mother of Pearl Day 6: History has a Way of Repeating Itself by Tricia Goyer</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-6-history-has-a-way-of-repeating-itself-by-tricia-goyer.html">Mother of Pearl Day 6: History has a Way of Repeating Itself by Tricia Goyer</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fcategory%2Fmother-of-pearl&sref=rss" target="_blank"><img title="" alt="Pearl Girls McSweeney" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/ImageProxyServlet.png" width="200" height="125" /></a><strong>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering.</strong> Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day.</p>
<p><strong>AND . . . <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">do</span> enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful handcrafted pearl necklace and a <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjoynindia.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">JOYN India</a> bag.</strong> Enter at the bottom of this post. The contest runs 5/4-5/13, and the winner will be announced on 5/14. <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">Contest</span> is only open to U.S. <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">residents</span>.</p>
<p>If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit <strong><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pearlgirls.info%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">www.pearlgirls.info</a>, <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fblog%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank"><span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">subscribe</span> to our blog</a>,</strong> and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fpearlgirls%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">charities</a> that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbookstore.inspiringvoices.com%2FProducts%2FSKU-000475734%2FMother-of-Pearl.aspx&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong><em>Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith</em></strong></a> to help support Pearl Girls™.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong> </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>And to all you MOMS out there, Happy Mother’s Day!<span id="more-8235"></span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">~</div>
<h3>History has a Way of Repeating Itself by Tricia Goyer</h3>
<p>Forty years ago a single, young woman was about to give birth. She didn’t know how she could afford a child without her parents’ help. She hadn’t talked to her former boyfriend in months. She had no idea how to reach him, how to tell him she was having his child.</p>
<p>This young woman attended church some, yet her dialogue with God was stilted. <strong>How could God let this happen to her?</strong> What would her life be like now? A baby girl was born, and upon holding her child this young lady knew things would be okay. Perhaps this baby was a gift, not a burden as she supposed.</p>
<p>This woman raised her daughter the best she could, and while she wanted to give her child more than she had . . . <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">history</span> has a way of repeating itself. When the daughter became a young woman, she found herself in the same situation—living at home, pregnant and scared.</p>
<p>The daughter knew she could raise this child. After all, her mom had done it. But what would her life be like? How could God let this happen to her?<br />
If you haven’t guessed already. I was the daughter born to a single mom and as a teenager became a single mom myself. At age 17, God gave me a son. My boyfriend was out of the picture, and I faced raising a child alone with little education, no money and, maybe according to the world, little hope for my future.</p>
<p>Now if you take this story at face value, I am nothing more than a statistic. According to government research, most daughters of young mothers will be teen mothers themselves. They face lives of hardship, living on welfare for the most part — becoming a burden rather than an asset to society.</p>
<p><strong>Yet, I am not a statistic. Why? Because God doesn’t do them.</strong></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2F%3Fattachment_id%3D5607&sref=rss" ><img class="aligncenter wp-image-5607" alt="goyerpg" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/goyerpg-504x654.jpg" width="403" height="523" /></a></div>
<p>As a 17-year-old pregnant teenager I prayed a simple prayer, “God, I have messed up my life big time. If you can do anything with it, please do.” I dedicated my life and my heart to him and things changed. I had hope in my heart and I started walking God’s way. God brought an amazing, Christian man into my life. John was a wonderful husband and a father to my son. When had a daughter and another one on the way, God did something else unexpected. He gave me the desire to write books.</p>
<p>This Mother’s Day, my heart is filled with thanksgiving. I’m thankful for my mother who chose life for me. I’m thankful that when I questioned my future, God gave me hope.</p>
<p><strong>History has a way of repeating itself in families, but even more important that our history of mess-ups is God’s history of setting things right.</strong> God has a history of seeing something no one else does . . . <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">like</span> seeing a king in a shepherd boy named David, seeing an apostle in a young zealot named Paul, and seeing a mighty warrior in a frightened nobody named Gideon. God’s X-ray eyes see right through any outward characteristics or national statistics. His X-ray eyes scan down to the heart.</p>
<p>Where have you felt you’ve fallen short of God’s perfect plan? Trust that God’s dream is to turn a mess-up into a miracle. He’s a BIG God with BIG dreams. A God who has made an agreement with us that is eternal, final, and sealed. A God who is strong in our weakness. <strong>A God who sees the future, sees the past and has a perfect plan for me . . . <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">and</span> for you.</strong> It’s something we can all be thankful for.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;">###</div>
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<p>Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of six, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. Tricia is also on the blogging team at <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmomlifetoday.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">MomLifeToday.com</a>, <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthebettermom.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">TheBetter<wbr />Mom.com</a> and other homeschooling and Christian sites. In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">mentors</span> teen moms. Tricia, along with a group of friends, recently launched <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.notquiteamishliving.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">www.<wbr />NotQuiteAmishLiving.com</a>, sharing ideas about simplifying life. She also hosts the weekly radio podcast, <i>Living Inspired</i>. Learn more about Tricia at <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.triciagoyer.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">www.triciagoyer.com</a>.<br />
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<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8235">Mother of Pearl Day 6: History has a Way of Repeating Itself by Tricia Goyer</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-6-history-has-a-way-of-repeating-itself-by-tricia-goyer.html">Mother of Pearl Day 6: History has a Way of Repeating Itself by Tricia Goyer</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p><div class="feedflare">
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		<title>The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages Book Blast $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway Ends 5/31</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FrugalExperiments/~3/NyUDNDuTG6U/the-book-reviewer-yellow-pages-book-blast-50-amazon-gift-card-giveaway-ends-531.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 01:22:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Giveaways]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>For more information visit: The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages Website * Facebook The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages, Fourth Edition This is a wonderful resource for any author or publisher that wants to get their book reviewed. There are hundreds of detailed listings, explaining each book reviewer&#8217;s preferred submission guidelines, contact information, turnaround time, and genre preferences. The [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8237">The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages Book Blast $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway Ends 5/31</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/the-book-reviewer-yellow-pages-book-blast-50-amazon-gift-card-giveaway-ends-531.html">The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages Book Blast $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway Ends 5/31</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">For more information visit: </span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">The Book Reviewer Yellow<br />
Pages </span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2F+www.stepbystepselfpublishing.net%2F&sref=rss">Website</a> * <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpages%2FBook-+Reviewer-Yellow-Pages%2F479899038723987&sref=rss">Facebook</a></span></strong></div>
<p><strong>The Book Reviewer Yellow Pages, Fourth Edition</strong></p>
<p>This is a wonderful resource for any author or publisher that wants to get their book reviewed. There are hundreds of detailed listings, explaining each book reviewer&#8217;s preferred submission guidelines, contact information, turnaround time, and genre preferences.</p>
<p>The book also includes a section in the back with author&#8217;s services, where an author can find an editor, cover designer, etc. And no one has paid a fee to be listed in the book, so you know that you can trust the information.</p>
<p>The PDF is priced at just $9.99, and is DRM-FREE. A must-have for any author, agent, or publicist.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">Purchase</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstep-by-step-self-publishing.contentshelf.com%2Fproduct%3F+product%3DI130501000001741&sref=rss" target="_blank">Ebook</a> * <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FThe-+Book-Reviewer-Yellow-Pages%2Fdp%2F1937361101%3Ftag%3Dblasttours-20&sref=rss">Print</a></h2>
<h2>Book Blast Giveaway</h2>
<p>$50 Amazon Gift Card</p>
<p>Ends 5/31/13</p>
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		<title>Mother of Pearl Day 5: Daughter Sing Softly By Lesli A. Westfall</title>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 09 May 2013 01:12:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[12 Pearls]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering. Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day. AND [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8232">Mother of Pearl Day 5: Daughter Sing Softly By Lesli A. Westfall</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/mother-of-pearl-day-5-daughter-sing-softly-by-lesli-a-westfall.html">Mother of Pearl Day 5: Daughter Sing Softly By Lesli A. Westfall</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fcategory%2Fmother-of-pearl&sref=rss" target="_blank"><img title="" alt="Pearl Girls McSweeney" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/ImageProxyServlet.png" width="200" height="125" /></a><strong>Welcome to Pearl Girls™ Mother of Pearl Mother’s Day blog series—a nine-day celebration of moms and mothering.</strong> Each day will feature a new post by some of today’s best writers (Tricia Goyer, Lisa Takeuchi Cullen, Beth Vogt, Lesli Westfall, and more). I hope you’ll join us each day for another unique perspective on Mother’s Day.</p>
<p><strong>AND . . . <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">do</span> enter the contest for a chance to win a beautiful handcrafted pearl necklace and a <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjoynindia.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">JOYN India</a> bag.</strong> Enter at the bottom of this post. The contest runs 5/4-5/13, and the winner will be announced on 5/14. <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">Contest</span> is only open to U.S. <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">residents</span>.</p>
<p>If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit <strong><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pearlgirls.info%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">www.pearlgirls.info</a>, <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fblog%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank"><span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">subscribe</span> to our blog</a>,</strong> and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmargaretmcsweeney.com%2Fpearlgirls%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">charities</a> that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbookstore.inspiringvoices.com%2FProducts%2FSKU-000475734%2FMother-of-Pearl.aspx&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong><em>Mother of Pearl: Luminous Lessons and Iridescent Faith</em></strong></a> to help support Pearl Girls™.</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong> </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong>And to all you MOMS out there, Happy Mother’s Day!<span id="more-8232"></span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">~</div>
<h3>Daughter Sing Softly By Lesli A. Westfall</h3>
<p><a style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2F%3Fattachment_id%3D5570&sref=rss" ><img alt="RedBird" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/RedBird-252x167.jpg" width="252" height="167" /></a>Along with the visit of winter comes the wet, dull, silent days and gray landscape, even in Southeast Texas. On the other hand, there is always a turn between the seasons. The brightness of spring <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">is</span> just around the corner. And God, in His unique, loving way, proves to us a sign through the things we love and when we need it the most.</p>
<p>I love birds, truly, any kind of bird! However, one of my favorites is the cardinal. It’s indigenous to some parts of North and South America. An attractive bird to say the least! Bright red feathers, black bill, a metallic chirp with a sweet, crystal clear melodic song . . . <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">and</span> my most favorite feature, for the most part, the male and female are always together.</p>
<p>For the last two weeks, right outside our bedroom at daybreak there has been a cardinal singing, loudly, wakening me morning after morning. In <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">the deepest</span> sleep, I would hear the bird’s song, and smile, knowing God is near. The daily morning concerts continued. Then, one particular day for my daily devotion, I opened my Bible and my eyes fell upon this scripture:</p>
<p><em>“. . . <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">one</span> <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">arises</span> to the sound of the bird, and the daughters of song sing softly.”</em>  Ecclesiastes 12:4</p>
<p>Wow!  <strong>How personal God truly is <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">to</span> you and me</strong>. He knows how much I love birds. The little feathered beings always reminded me of the Creator. He placed it in a strategic place to sing, then He led me to His Word and gave instruction for the moment: while waiting for the desire of my heart to become a mother; daughter, sing softly. In our waiting the Creator of life desires for us to worship Him.</p>
<p>In doing a word search about the cardinal, I found some interesting characteristics. The word &#8220;cardinal&#8221; originates from the Latin word &#8220;hinge.&#8221; A hinge helps a door or gate to turn. Could this sweet bird be a sign there is a turn in the change of seasons of our lives? Could the waiting to become a mother or <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">answer</span> to a long awaited prayer be a turn from winter’s silent, dull barren landscape to spring?</p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2F%3Fattachment_id%3D5605&sref=rss" ><img alt="westfallpg" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/westfallpg-504x654.jpg" width="403" height="523" /></a></div>
<p><strong>I believe He is saying to us, “As the season turns, Daughter . . . <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">sing</span> softly!”</strong></p>
<p>Scripture for reflection: <em>  “Give me a sign of your goodness, that my enemies may see it and be put to shame, for you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me.”</em> Psalm 86:17</p>
<p>A prayer for the day:  “Heavenly Father, I ask that you show me a sign of your goodness! I need it Lord. I thank you for your faithfulness to me, even in the littlest things. Comfort and help me as I wait upon you for the desires of my heart!”  In Jesus’ name, Amen.</p>
<div style="text-align: left;"><em>(All scripture from The Holy Bible, New International Version, Thomas Nelson Inc., 1991.)</em></div>
<div style="text-align: left;"><em> </em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">###</div>
<p><a style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flitfusegroup.com%2Fblog%2Fget-to-know-lesli-westfall%2Fattachment%2Fwestfall-author-photo-sm&sref=rss" ><img alt="Westfall - author photo sm" src="http://litfusegroup.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Westfall-author-photo-sm-252x202.jpg" width="202" height="162" /></a>Lesli Westfall, author of <em>Dancing Upon Barren Land</em>, enjoys her moments in life by teaching cooking and etiquette to children, finds pleasure in spending time with family and friends, traveling and eating dark chocolate!  Most of all, she enjoys sharing God’s love and teaching His Word to women. She is happily married to her man of faith, live-in comedian and best friend, Larry, <span class="GINGER_SOFATWARE_correct">of</span> twenty years. Visit her <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdancinguponbarrenland.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank"><strong>website</strong></a>.<br />
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		<title>May 2013 Kindle Fire Giveaway Ends 5/31 WW</title>
		<link>http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/FrugalExperiments/~3/7TDaiOe1Xiw/may-2013-kindle-fire-giveaway-ends-531-ww.html</link>
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		<pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2013 02:17:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Theresa Jones</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Giveaways]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8225</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>This is a joint AUTHOR &#38; BLOGGER SPONSORED GIVEAWAY! Kindle Fire HD 7&#8243; Giveaway The winner will have the option of receiving a 7&#8243; Kindle Fire HD (US Only) &#160; Or $199 Amazon.com Gift Card (International) &#160; Or $199 in Paypal Cash (International) &#160; Sponsoring Bloggers &#38; Authors I Am A Reader, Not A Writer [...]<div class="tentblogger-rss-footer"><hr /><p>You just finished reading <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/?p=8225">May 2013 Kindle Fire Giveaway Ends 5/31 WW</a>!  Consider leaving a comment!</p><p></p></div></p><p>The post <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com/2013/05/may-2013-kindle-fire-giveaway-ends-531-ww.html">May 2013 Kindle Fire Giveaway Ends 5/31 WW</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.frugalexperiments.com">Frugal Experiments</a>.</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iamareader.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F04%2FMay-Kindle-Giveaway.jpg&sref=rss"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-17933" alt="May Kindle Giveaway" src="http://www.iamareader.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/May-Kindle-Giveaway.jpg" width="399" height="500" /><span id="more-8225"></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<p><b><span style="font-size: large;">This is a joint AUTHOR &amp; BLOGGER SPONSORED GIVEAWAY!</span></b></p>
<p><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></b></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Kindle Fire HD 7&#8243; Giveaway</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"></div>
<p><b>The winner will have the option of receiving a 7&#8243; Kindle Fire HD (US Only)</b></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-D3-M10YGrZk%2FUOyPASpWDOI%2FAAAAAAAAbVY%2FMyzhFBW20kY%2Fs1600%2Fkindle%2Bfire%2Bhd.jpg&sref=rss"><img alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D3-M10YGrZk/UOyPASpWDOI/AAAAAAAAbVY/MyzhFBW20kY/s320/kindle+fire+hd.jpg" width="320" height="207" border="0" /></a></div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Or $199 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)</b></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-rP6I9sr2LFQ%2FUOyPXzhYUkI%2FAAAAAAAAbVg%2FFFKDDa9x7ko%2Fs1600%2Famazon%2Bgift.jpg&sref=rss"><img alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rP6I9sr2LFQ/UOyPXzhYUkI/AAAAAAAAbVg/FFKDDa9x7ko/s320/amazon+gift.jpg" width="320" height="203" border="0" /></a></div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b>Or $199 in Paypal Cash (International)</b></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-M3ERsD8SGsk%2FUOyPcfuwKeI%2FAAAAAAAAbVo%2F40--AtRYsBc%2Fs1600%2Fpaypal.png&sref=rss"><img alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M3ERsD8SGsk/UOyPcfuwKeI/AAAAAAAAbVo/40--AtRYsBc/s320/paypal.png" width="320" height="196" border="0" /></a></div>
<p><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br />
</b></span></p>
</div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><b><span style="font-size: large;">Sponsoring Bloggers &amp; Authors</span></b></p>
<ol>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iamareader.com&sref=rss" target="_blank">I Am A Reader, Not A Writer</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.feedyourreader.com&sref=rss" target="_blank">Feed Your Reader</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgirlswithbook.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Girls with Books</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjustbookinaround.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Just Bookin&#8217; Around</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthemisadventuresofatwentysomething.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjanieraeldridge.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Books, Beauty and Bodacious Deals</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.emmamichaels.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Emma Michaels</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pageflipperzya.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Page Flipperz YA</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lorisreadingcorner.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Lori&#8217;s Reading Corner</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fohchrys.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Oh, Chrys!</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.margreatsglasses.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Josh Baker</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsomuchtowritesolittletime.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Roxanne Crouse</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fevesfangarden.com%2Fblog%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Eve&#8217;s Fan Garden</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Felizabethisaacs.com%2Fblog%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Elizabeth Isaacs</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fchapterbreak.wordpress.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Chapter Break</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbukubukudidi.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Buku-Buku Didi</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmmobb.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Molly &amp; Mel&#8217;s Obsessions Book Blog</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jenniferlaurens.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Jennifer Laurens</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mkmcclintockblog.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author MK McClintock</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmaryinhb.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Bookhounds</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.stepintofiction.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Step Into Fiction</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lenasledgeblog.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Lena Sledge</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.taylordeanbooks.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Taylor Dean</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.leisurereads.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Leisure Reads</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Flibbyslibrary.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Libby&#8217;s Library</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abookishescape.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">A Bookish Escape</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdivainpyjamas.blogspot.com.au%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Ramblings of a Diva Book Nerd</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fkimberleycresswell.wordpress.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Suspense Author Kim Cresswell</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.suzyturner.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Suzy Turner, YA Author</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fstacyhgg.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Books Unhinged by StacyHgg</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.loritheauthor.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Lori Verni-Fogarsi</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.princesssarahg.blogspot.co.uk%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Fae Books</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwordtodreams.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Word to Dreams</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kidlitfrenzy.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Kid Lit Frenzy</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbookloveramber.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Author Tressa Messenger</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fauggie-talk.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Auggie Talk</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fphantasmicreads.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Phantasmic Reads</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fkerrytaylor74.wordpress.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Kerry Taylor</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmarthasbookshelf.blogspot.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Reviews by Martha&#8217;s Bookshelf</a></li>
<li><a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mariasspace.com%2F&sref=rss" target="_blank">Marissa&#8217;s Space</a></li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Giveaway Details</strong></p>
<p>1 winner will receive their choice of a Kindle Fire 7&#8243; HD (US Only), $199 Amazon Gift Card or $199 in Paypal Cash (International).</p>
<p>Ends 5/31/13</p>
<p>Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. <strong>Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded.</strong> No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer <a href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iamareader.com&sref=rss" target="_blank">http://iamareader.com</a> and sponsored by the participating authors &amp; bloggers. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.<br />
<a class="rafl" id="rc-0a0096913" href="http://redirectingat.com?id=43163X1126179&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rafflecopter.com%2Frafl%2Fdisplay%2F0a0096913%2F&sref=rss" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
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