One House Schoolroom

Book Review- House of Secrets by Tracie Peterson

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:56:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing House of Secrets Bethany House (October 1, 2011) by Tracie Peterson

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 85 novels.
She received her first book contract in November, 1992 and saw A Place To Belong published in February 1993 with Barbour Publishings' Heartsong Presents. She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership's vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row.

In December, 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers to co-write a series with author Judith Pella. Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers.

She teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research.

Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests.

Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family--especially her three grandchildren--Rainy, Fox and Max. She's active in her church as the Director of Women's Ministries, coordinates a yearly writer's retreat for published authors, and travels, as time permits, to research her books.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When her father orchestrates a surprise trip to the summer house of her childhood, Bailee Cooper is unprepared for what follows. What is intended to be a happy reunion for Bailee and her sisters, Geena and Piper, quickly becomes shrouded by memories from the past.

Together again, the three sisters sift through their recollections of fifteen years ago...of an ill mother, and of their father making a desperate choice. They vowed, as children, to be silent--but one sister believes the truth must now be revealed. Yet can they trust their memories?

Mark Delahunt arrives in the wake of this emotional turmoil. Determined to win Bailee's affection, Mark becomes the strong fortress for her in this time of confusion, and what was once a tentative promise begins to take root and grow. Caught between the past and an uncertain future, can Bailee let God guide her to heal the past and ultimately to embrace love?

If you would like to read the first chapter of House of Secrets, go HERE.
Enjoy!!

Book Review- The Mercy by Beverly Lewis

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 14:00:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Mercy Bethany House (September 6, 2011) by Beverly Lewis

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Beverly's first venture into adult fiction is the best-selling trilogy, The Heritage of Lancaster County, including The Shunning, a suspenseful saga of Katie Lapp, a young Amish woman drawn to the modern world by secrets from her past. The book is loosely based on the author's maternal grandmother, Ada Ranck Buchwalter, who left her Old Order Mennonite upbringing to marry a Bible College student. One Amish-country newspaper claimed Beverly's work to be "a primer on Lancaster County folklore" and offers "an insider's view of Amish life."

Booksellers across the country, and around the world, have spread the word of Beverly's tender tales of Plain country life. A clerk in a Virginia bookstore wrote, "Beverly's books have a compelling freshness and spark. You just don't run across writing like that every day. I hope she'll keep writing stories about the Plain people for a long, long time."

A member of the National League of American Pen Women, as well as a Distinguished Alumnus of Evangel University, Lewis has written over 80 books for children, youth, and adults, many of them award-winning. She and her husband, David, make their home in Colorado, where they enjoy hiking, biking, and spending time with their family. They are also avid musicians and fiction "book worms."

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rose Kauffman pines for prodigal Nick Franco, the Bishop's foster son who left the Amish under a cloud of suspicion after his foster brother's death. His rebellion led to the "silencing" of their beloved Bishop. But is Nick really the rebel he appears to be? Rose's lingering feelings for her wayward friend refuse to fade, but she is frustrated that Nick won't return and make things right with the People. Nick avowed his love for Rose--but will he ever be willing to sacrifice modern life for her?

Meanwhile, Rose's older sister, Hen, is living in her parents' Dawdi Haus. Her estranged "English" husband, injured and helpless after a car accident, has reluctantly come to live with her and their young daughter during his recovery. Can their marriage recover, as well? Is there any possible middle ground between a woman reclaiming her old-fashioned Amish lifestyle and thoroughly modern man?

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

Watch the book trailer:

Enjoy!!

Book Review- Dangerous Mercy by Kathy Herman

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

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

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

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

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

Enjoy!!

Book Review- Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 14:00:00 +0000

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

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

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

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

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy!!

Book Review- Naomi's Gift by Amy Clipston

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:00:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Naomi's Gift Zondervan (September 12, 2011) by Amy Clipston

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

From Amy:

A native of New Jersey, I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. I often joke that my fiction writing “career” began in elementary school as I wrote and shared silly stories with a close friend.

In 1991, I graduated from high school, and my parents and I moved to Virginia Beach, Virginia. My father retired, and my mother went to work full-time. I attended Virginia Wesleyan College in Norfolk, and I graduated with a degree in communications. I met my husband, Joe, during my senior year in college, a few days after my father had a massive stroke. Joe and I clicked instantly, and after a couple of months we started dating. We married four years later.

After graduating from VWC, I took a summer job with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Norfolk District, which turned into an eleven-year career. I worked in the Public Affairs Office for four years and then moved into Planning as a writer/editor.

One day while surfing the Internet for a professional editor’s group, I accidentally found a local fiction writing group, Chesapeake Romance Writers. I attended a meeting and I met writers in all stages of their careers. The group helped me realize that I did want to be an author, and it was my dream to see my name on the cover of one of my novels. Through Chesapeake Romance Writers, I learned how to plot, write, and edit a novel, and I also learned how to pursue an agent. I signed with Mary Sue Seymour at the Seymour Agency in 2006, shortly before Joe and I moved my parents and our sons to North Carolina.

My dream came true when I sold my first book in 2007. Holding my first book, A Gift of Grace, in my hands was exhilarating and surreal.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Take a trip to Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania, where you'll meet the women of the Kauffman Amish Bakery in Lancaster County. As each woman's story unfolds, you will share in her heartaches, trials, joys, dreams ... and secrets. You'll discover how the simplicity of the Amish lifestyle can clash with the 'English' way of life---and the decisions and consequences that follow. Most importantly, you will be encouraged by the hope and faith of these women, and the importance they place on their families. Naomi's Gift re-introduces twenty-four-year-old Naomi King, who has been burned twice by love and has all but given up on marriage and children. As Christmas approaches---a time of family, faith, and hope for many others---Naomi is more certain than ever her life will be spent as an old maid, helping with the family's quilting business and taking care of her eight siblings. Then she meets Caleb, a young widower with a 7-year-old daughter, and her world is once again turned upside-down. Naomi's story of romantic trial and error and youthful insecurities has universal appeal. Author Amy Clipston artfully paints a panorama of simple lives full of complex relationships, and she carefully explores cultural differences and human similarities, with inspirational results. Naomi's Gift includes all the details of Amish life that Clipston's fans enjoy, while delivering the compelling stories and strong characters that continue to draw legions of new readers.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of Naomi's Gift, go HERE.

Enjoy!!

Handmade Baby Expo- 38 Stitches Giveaway- 10/8

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:32:00 +0000

I am so happy to introduce you to another great sponsor in our 2011 Handmade Baby Expo- Rachel from 38 Stitches. She is a super talented stay at home mama of a sweet baby boy and her Etsy shoppe is full of beautiful items for babies!!

We were so excited to receive a beautiful package from Rachel containing the most beautiful burp cloth and bib set. It is so obvious that every item created by Rachel is handmade with love and dedication. The craftsmanship is amazing and the fabric choices available are some of the most beautiful I have seen.

This was the burp cloth that we requested and we were so thrilled with it when it arrived. I love the contoured shape that makes it not only beautiful but super functional as well. This burp cloth is back with the softest minky fabric I have seen.

Here is a contoured burp cloth in action:

You can see how the great size and contoured shape makes for great coverage and keeps your clothes clean from any little accidents.

We also received this beautiful bib:

Yep- it is adorable!! I cannot wait to try it on our baby Lukas in a few months!! All of Rachel's bibs are equally as beautiful and well made and they are all also backed with amazingly soft, high quality minky fabric.

About 38 Stitches:

All patterns are original designs. Lots of thought, planning and trial and error went into the creation of each pattern including size, curvature, length, etc. which resulted in the current design.

Rachel seeks out fabrics that are not only high quality, but also trendy and unique. They are a staple of Mom and Dad's wardrobe, so they might as well look cool!!

She uses the highest quality minky and chenille fabrics for the back of the burp cloths. These are not the same as the ones you will find in your local fabric shop. They are softer, thicker and come in every color under the rainbow.

You can be assured that you will be pleased with any purchase you make from 38 Stitches.

and that's not all!! Rachel also offers these adorable little treats as well:

I know... they are all amazing!! And this is just a sampling of what is offered at 38 Stitches. For more information, check out 38 Stitches on Facebook!!

So.... now is your chance to win one of two beautiful burp cloths:

**We are so pleased to be able to use Rafflecopter for our Baby Expo giveaways- simply use the form below to enter to win!! This is our first trial with Rafflecopter so if you have any questions or run into any trouble, please let us know by email or via our contact form.**

Winner!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:49:00 +0000

Congratulations!!

The winner of the Freckled Lemonade Giveaway is

Karen (karenmed409)!!

Thanks to all who entered!!

Book Review- The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 13:00:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Doctor's Lady Bethany House (September 1, 2011) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jody has written novels for the last 18 years (with a hiatus when her children were young). After many years of writing and honing her skills, she finally garnered national attention with her double final in the Genesis Contest, a fiction-writing contest for unpublished writers through ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers).

Her first published book, The Preacher’s Bride (2010 Bethany House Publishers), hit the CBA Best Seller list on two different occasions and has won multiple awards.

Her second book, The Doctor’s Lady, released this September. She has completed a third book which will be released in 2012. She’s currently busy researching and writing another book!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Priscilla White knows she'll never be a wife or mother and feels God's call to the mission field in India. Dr. Eli Ernest is back from Oregon Country only long enough to raise awareness of missions to the natives before heading out West once more. But then Priscilla and Eli both receive news from the mission board: No longer will they send unmarried men and women into the field.

Left scrambling for options, the two realize the other might be the answer to their needs. Priscilla and Eli agree to a partnership, a marriage in name only that will allow them to follow God's leading into the mission field. But as they journey west, this decision will be tested by the hardships of the trip and by the unexpected turnings of their hearts.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Doctor's Lady, go HERE.

Watch the book trailer:

Enjoy!!

Book Review- Wings of A Dream by Anne Mateer

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:00:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Wings of A Dream Bethany House (September 1, 2011) by Anne Mateer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

While I have been writing for what feels like my whole life, I began seriously studying the craft in 2000. Since then I have completed five novels, had several pieces published in local periodicals, attended six writing conferences and managed to final in ACFW's Genesis contest in 2006, 2008, and 2009. My first historical novel, Wings of a Dream, will be released in September 2011, with another historical novel to follow in 2012. But writing is only a piece of my life.

I am mostly just a woman trying to live her life in a manner pleasing to the Lord. That involves being a wife to Jeff and a mother to my three teenagers--neither role coming easily but both roles stretching me, requiring me to press in closer to Jesus. And because of this, Jesus has taken an insecure, fearful, sometimes angry girl and is turning her into a more trusting, peaceful, grace-filled woman. At least some of the time. There is still such a long way to go!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Rebekah Hendricks dreams of a life far beyond her family's farm in Oklahoma, and when dashing aviator Arthur Samson promised adventure in the big city, she is quick to believe he's the man she's meant to marry. While she waits for the Great War to end and Arthur to return to her so they can pursue all their plans, her mother's sister falls ill. Rebekah seizes the opportunity to travel to Texas to care for Aunt Adabelle, seeing this chance to be closer to Arthur's training camp as God's approval of her plans.

But the Spanish flue epidemic changes everything. Faced with her aunt's death, Arthur's indecisiveness, and four children who have no one else to care for them, Rebekah is torn between the desire to escape the type of life she's always led and the unexpected love that just might change the dream of her heart.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Wings of A Dream, go HERE.

Enjoy!!

Book Review- To Have and To Hold by Tracie Peterson

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 15:30:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing To Have and to Hold Bethany House (September 1, 2011) by Tracie Peterson
and

Judith Miller

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 85 novels. She received her first book contract in November, 1992 with Barbour Publishings' Heartsong Presents. She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership's vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row. In 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers to co-write a series with author Judith Pella. Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers. She teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests. Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family--especially her three grandchildren--Rainy, Fox and Max.

Judith Miller's first novel, Threads of Love, was conceived when she was commuting sixty miles to work each day. She wanted to tell the story of a pioneer girl coming to Kansas and the faith that sustained her as she adjusted to a new life. Through a co-worker, she was directed to Tracie Peterson who, at that time, worked down the hall from her. Having never met Tracie, Judith was totally unaware of her writing career, but God intervened. The rest is, as they say, history. Since that first encounter many years ago, Judith has been blessed with the publication of numerous books, novellas and a juvenile fiction book. Joyously, she and Tracie had the opportunity to develop a blessed friendship. In fact, they have co-authored several series together, including The Bells of Lowell, the Lights of Lowell and The Broadmoor Legacy.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Audrey Cunningham's father proposes that they move to Bridal Veil Island, where he grew up, she agrees, thinking this will help keep him sober and close to God. But they arrive to find wealthy investors buying up land to build a grand resort on the secluded island--and they want the Cunninghams' acreage.

Contractor Marshall Graham can't imagine why the former drinking buddy of his deceased father would beckon him to Bridal Veil Island. And when Boyd Cunningham asks him to watch over Audrey, Marshall is even more confused. He has no desire to be saddled with caring for this fiery young woman who is openly hostile toward him. But when Audrey seems to be falling for another man--one who has two little girls Audrey adores--Marshall realizes she holds more of his heart than he realized. Which man will Audrey choose? And can she hold on to her ancestral property in the face of overwhelming odds?

If you would like to read the first chapter of To Have and to Hold, go HERE.

Enjoy!!

Book Review- A Whisper of Peace by Kim Vogel Sawyer

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 14:00:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Whisper of Peace Bethany House (September 1, 2011) by Kim Vogel Sawyer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kim Vogel Sawyer is the author of fifteen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Book of the Year Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women's fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and numerous grandchildren.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ostracized by her tribe because of her white father, Lizzie Dawson lives alone in the mountains of Alaska, practicing the ways of her people even as she resides in the small cabin her father built for her mother. She dreams of reconciling with her grandparents to fulfill her mother's dying request, but she has not yet found a way to bridge the gap that separate her from her tribe.

Clay Selby has always wanted to be like his father, a missionary who holds a great love for the native people and has brought many to God. Clay and his stepsister, Vivian, arrive in Alaska to set up a church and school among the Athbascan people. Clay is totally focused on this goal...until he meets a young, independent Indian woman with the most striking blue eyes he's ever seen.

But Lizzie is clearly not part of the tribe, and befriending her might have dire consequences for his mission. Will Clay be forced to choose between his desire to minister to the natives and the quiet nudging of his heart?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Whisper of Peace, go HERE.

Enjoy!!

Handmade Baby Expo- Just 4 You Treats **Open Giveaway!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:40:00 +0000

I am so excited to introduce you to another wonderful sponsor in our 2011 Handmade Baby Expo- Lindsay of Just 4 You Treats!! Lindsay is the guru of adorable cookies and treats for baby showers!! I was thrilled when we received our box of goodies from Just 4 You Treats- they were amazing!!

Lindsay has a passion for baking and it is so evident in all the wonderfully creative goodies she creates. The perfect addition to any baby shower, the cookies she bakes are adorable and oh so yummy!! The box we received had multiple adorable cookies all in the shapes of onesies with the most wonderfully hand painted icing in cute patterns and colors!!

Lindsay is so easy to work with and her creativity has no bounds!! She does create custom packages for her customers if needed and her turn around time is super quick!!

You can also find out more about Just 4 You Treats on her blog and facebook page!!

Oh- and she doesn't just do onesies- check out these other adorable options:

and there's SO many more great products to choose from!!

So- now is your chance to win a great $18 + free shipping Gift Certificate (a 1 dozen order of cookies) to Just 4 You Treats!!

Good Luck!!

Winners!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:06:00 +0000

Congratulations!!

The winner of the UPrinting Giveaway is:

Queen of the Click- queenoftheclick@

The winner of the 2011 Handmade Baby Expo- Beffie 48 Quilt Kit is:

Christina- ckonecke@

Please respond to your email within 48 hours to claim your prizes!!

Thanks to all who entered!!

Free 10 Pack of Career Studies from TOS!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 22:45:00 +0000

The Old Schoolhouse is offering this great 10 pack of Career Studies (a $35 value) FREE for a limited time!!

Just use the code: FBWANNABE at checkout.

and don't forget to check out the TOS/ Gena Suarez Facebook page and say thanks!!

Winner!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 16:10:00 +0000

Congratulations!!

The winner of the first 2011 Handmade Baby Expo giveaway- Joan Orr Wooden Pull Toy is:

Aura- (aahaft@)

Please check your email and respond within 48 hours to claim your prize!!

UPrinting Labels Giveaway!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:51:00 +0000

UPrinting offers great printing services for small businesses!!

Are you in need of labels for your business products??

Check out the great printing services that UPrinting offers!!

UPrinting label printing services offer both standard and roll label printing in almost any design you can invision. They make the process super easy by offering great product templates to get you started in the design process.

Standard labels- Use UPrinting’s affordable and ideal standard labels to creatively establish your brand on your target market. Their standard label printing service fits all business, commercial and branding purposes.

The labels are made of thick and durable adhesive stock that can add to the professional look of your product. These are easy to use and can be designed to fit for your specific needs. You can create your standard labels online with our easy design tool and leave the high-quality printing to us.

Roll labels- UPrinting roll labels are great both for packaging and promotion. Labels printed on white and clear BOPP can be used on bottles, bath and body products, food containers and even window decals. Roll labels printed on Estate #8 Textured material are great for beverages, wine, and specialty foods. Thinking of getting promotional stickers for use outdoor? Print labels on the weather-resistant flexible vinyl material; these are also great for bumper stickers, warning labels and identification.

Roll labels come in die cut shapes, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Shapes like squares, rectangles and circles are among the options for printing stickers.

For more information you can connect with UPrinting on Facebook and Twitter!!

UPrinting has generously donated one set of labels to one of our lucky readers!!
(Labels are 2" x 3.5", 70lb Label Matte, Front Only Printing)

To enter this giveaway, please fill out the Rafflecopter form below. US Shipping addresses only. This giveaway ends at midnight on August 28th. We love to hear from you so feel free to leave a blog comment but it will NOT count as an entry to the giveaway.

This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive labels for hosting. Check out product templates on UPrinting.com.

2011 Handmade Baby Expo- Freckled Lemonade

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 20:26:00 +0000

We are so happy to share with you another great sponsor in our 2011 Handmade Baby Expo- Amber from Freckled Lemonade!! Amber's Etsy shoppe is filled with fun items for babies and children- including adorable onesies, beaded socks, crochet headbands, jewelry, and more. Amber's unique touch on each item makes her products a great gift for any little one in your life.

We were given the opportunity to review some of Amber's adorable onesies- the Little Man Onesies. These are precious little Gerber onesies (in short or long sleeve) with the cutest hand sewn "little man" ties on the front. I was in love when I first saw them and they when our little goodie package arrived in the mail I was thrilled with the quality and attention to detail that was given to each item.

I can not wait to try our adorable little onesie on our baby Lukas in just a few months!!

We also found in our little package some adorable Beaded Socks- a great toy and clothing item in one!! Your little one will love wearing these and watching the beads rattle when they find their feet. (These seem to be very well made but please watch your little ones while wearing these as the beads are very small and could pose a choking hazard).

So cute!!

About Amber from Freckled Lemonade:

This is my story...

I have been crafting for years. I have had my jewelry and hair accessories in different boutiques but I never felt like I could reach out to all of my friends. Through Etsy I am finally able to bring my creations to everyone. I hope you enjoy looking at my site. Thank you so much for taking the time. I love you all so very much.

I am a stay at home mom of 5...4 girls and 1 boy. They are my prides and joyz:) My husband is a Chiropractor and we've had our own family practice now for about 4 years. There have been good times and bad. I guess most of you are wondering why I have such an amazing haircut...well, in July of 2010, at the age of 33, I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. I decided to do a breast exam and didn't leave out the nipple. It is a good thing because that is where the cancer had decided to surface...the Dr.'s think I could have had Cancer for at least 1 maybe even 2 years before I found it. There was only really a 25% chance that it would shrink with chemo but I decided to do it, and the Dr.'s wanted to do it first to pull the tumors away from the skin for a smoother reconstruction. It has been a long journey and there have been many trying days but I was fighting not just to fight, but I have such a beautiful family I have been fighting my guts out (literally:) for them. As of January 3rd 2011 I am CANCER FREE! The Chemo not only shrunk the cancer, it completely obliterated it!!!! And the non invasive cells that weren't touched were taken out when I had a double Mastectomy. So, welcome to my life, and my site. It's time to shop and enjoy. Much love to you all. Live life, and Never let it live you!

Since writing my story I have also had to undergo Radiation and another 2 surgeries to move my expanders back into the correct places. I have at least 2 more surgeries left and I hope that after that I am finished. For the next 5 years I will be taking an anti cancer medication as well. All things are good, I am Cancer free and have a whole new way of living my life. Don't take advantage of the little things...because it is the little things that make the most difference. During my treatments I still crafted. Much of what I have listed are things I actually made during treatment. Crafting continues to be my therapy and, next to my husband and my children, my passion.

Proceeds from my shop will go to pay my doctor/ hospital bills for my Cancer treatments.

I love her wonderful attitude and her amazing view of life!!

Here are some other goodies you can find at Freckled Lemonade:

Amber has generously donated any item from Freckled Lemonade ($50 value or less) to one of our lucky readers!!

Free Preschool Pack!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 10:09:00 +0000

2 Teaching Mommies

is offering a great FREE download-

Here are the printables included in this unit:

Roll & Graph
B is for for Backpack
Beginning Writing/Cutting Practice
Shadow Match
Size Sequencing
Patterns
Letter Puzzles
Number Order Puzzle
Spelling Pages
Counting Clip Cards
Which is Different?
Back to School Scavenger Hunt
Phonic Clip Cards
Size Sort

Enjoy!!

Handmade Baby Expo- Beffie 48 Quilts

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 11:52:00 +0000

We are excited to bring you another great sponsor in our 2011 Handmade Baby Expo- Beth from Beffie48!! Beth has a wonderful little Etsy shoppe where she creates beautiful quilts and quilt kits for babies and children. She will even add embroidery to one of the quilt squares to allow them to be great family heirlooms!!

We were given the opportunity to review one of her great quilt kits- and I have to say I was a bit apprehensive when the kit arrived. The package was full of beautiful material, yet I had never attempted a quilt before. Much to my relief, included in our package was a wonderful set of easy to follow directions. I was so pleased with the quality of the materials as well as the ease of the directions and I know the sweet quilt that ensued will be loved by our little Lukas for years to come.

Here is one of her beautiful quilt kits:

and a finished quilt:

Beautiful!!

About Beffie48 Quilts:

The quilt kits feature all Flannel quilting fabric on the front and soft solid color flannel on the back. Rag Quilts are easy to make for anyone who knows how to use a sewing machine.

Custom Personalization of your quilt is available at no extra charge (machine embroidered) with your choice of name, date or initials or whatever you wish on a square of your material.

Your family and friends will cherish this handmade quilt, specially made by you, with thoughtful embroidery personalization. These quilts make wonderful gifts for a baby shower, birthday, or a special event and are guaranteed to be the hit of any party. Or make one as a special treat to yourself.

Orders ship FAST! Your order will be sent by priority mail so you will have your kit in just 2-3 days!

Do It Yourself Rag Quilt Kits are a good size for a Lap Quilt or Baby Quilt. Fun, Easy & Fast to make. The hardest part (cutting the pieces) is done for you! You can make this quilt in just a few hours.

Your completed quilt will be all flannel fabric on the front and soft, cozy flannel on the back. The finished size will be approx 38" x 32".
Want a larger Quilt? Purchase 2 matching kits or kits with complementary colors for a finished Quilt that will be twice the size.

The kits include:
20 squares of pre-cut 9" flannel fabric squares as pictured.
20 squares of pre-cut 9" white flannel squares for batting & backing.
Complete, easy, detailed instructions for making your rag quilt.

Do you like the Quilt but don't want to sew it yourself. Just add the "I Sew it for You" item to your cart and you will receive the completed quilt within a week.

For more information you can visit Beth's Facebook page and Blog!!

Beth has generously donated the following quilt kit as a prize for one of our lucky readers:

How to enter our giveaways using Rafflecopter!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 19:54:00 +0000

Rafflecopter is a new method many bloggers are using to streamline their giveaway process. It is still in the testing phase but we have been given the opportunity to try it out.

We are hoping this makes entering our giveaways much easier for you all.

Below is a quick tutorial for those of you who have never entered a giveaway using Rafflecopter.

How to Enter Rafflecopter Giveaways from Rafflecopter on Vimeo.

Please let us know if you have any questions!!

Handmade Baby Expo- Joan Orr Handmade & Vintage Accessories

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 11:20:00 +0000

Welcome to the 2011 Handmade Baby Expo!!

We are so excited to share with you some of the most amazing talents and goodies we have discovered on our quest to find the best handmade baby items on the market. We are hosting this Baby Expo in honor of our little Lukas due in early October.

So... on with the Expo!!

Our first amazing Handmade Baby Expo sponsor is Joan Orr- Handmade & Vintage Accessories!!

Joan has been creating art, home decor, and accessories for many years. Her talent is amazing and her designs reflect her warm and friendly personality. I was thrilled when Joan agreed to be a sponsor in our Baby Expo knowing that her array of products are not only for children, but many goodies for mamas as well!!

When I started searching Etsy for some of the greatest talents around, I stumbled upon the beautiful works of Joan Orr and was so impressed by her selection of amazing handmade items. My eyes were immediately drawn to the beautiful wooden pull toys created by her and her husband Troy. These simple yet beautiful toys reminded me of the simplicity and innocence of my own childhood and I knew that I wanted to share that with my little Lukas as well.

Joan sent me a beautifully wrapped package containing the sweetest wooden whale pull toy. I was so impressed with the amazing quality of the whale as well as the beautiful paint job and the sweet rope pull. I can just imagine my little guy running around the house with it!!

As much as I love this little whale friend, there are so many other amazing goodies to see in Joan Orr's collection- those that were made by her and those that have been found in estate sales, auctions, etc. All are promised to please!!

Here are just a few of the goodies available:

I know... amazing, right??!!??

So ... now is your chance to win one of her beautiful wooden pull toys.

**We are so pleased to be able to use Rafflecopter for our Baby Expo giveaways- simply use the form below to enter to win!! This is our first trial with Rafflecopter so if you have any questions or run into any trouble, please let us know by email or via our contact form.**

Handmade Baby Expo begins tomorrow!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 23:57:00 +0000

Our Handmade Baby Expo begins tomorrow morning!!
We have some fabulous sponsors and giveaways to share with you all!!
AND.... we will be trying out Rafflecopter to make entering and winning so much easier!!

Stay tuned.....

Alphabeasts Winner!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:57:00 +0000

Congratulations!!

The winner of our Alphabeasts giveaway is

Janet W. (Janet3rdgrade@)!!

Check your inbox!!

Thanks to all who entered.

Book Review- Love Finds You In Amana, Iowa by Melanie Dobson

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:54:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Love Finds You in Amana, Iowa Summerside Press (June 1, 2011) by Melanie Dobson

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Melanie Dobson is the award-winning author of The Black Cloister; Love Finds You in Liberty, Indiana; and Together for Good, and she has now authored nine contemporary and historical novels including Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania which releases in November 2011.

Prior to launching Dobson Media Group in 1999, Melanie was the corporate publicity manager at Focus on the Family where she was responsible for the publicity of events, products, films, and TV specials. Melanie received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Liberty University and her master's degree in communication from Regent University. She has worked in the fields of publicity and journalism for fifteen years including two years as a publicist for The Family Channel.

Melanie and her husband, Jon, met in Colorado Springs in 1997 at Vanguard Church. Jon works in the field of computer animation. Since they've been married, the Dobsons have relocated numerous times including stints in Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Colorado, Berlin, and Southern California. These days they are enjoying their new home in the Pacific Northwest.

Jon and Melanie have adopted their two daughters —Karly (6) and Kinzel (5). When Melanie isn't writing or entertaining their girls, she enjoys exploring ghost towns and dusty back roads, traveling, hiking, line dancing, and reading inspirational fiction.

ABOUT THE BOOK

With a backdrop of the community of The Amana Colonies, the Civil War, and a great love story, Melanie Dobson’s new historical fiction title LOVE FINDS YOU IN AMANA, IOWA both enlightening and entertaining.

The novel is set in the United States during the turmoil of the 1860s. As the rest of the nation is embroiled in the Civil War, the Amana Colonies have remained at peace with a strong faith in God and pursuit of community, intertwined with hard work, family life and the building of their colony.

Amalie Wiese is travelling to the newly built village of Amana in 1863. When she arrives in the colonies she finds that her fiancée, Friedrich has left to fight with the Union Army. Amalie fears for his safety as she also struggles with his decision to abandon the colony’s beliefs. Matthias, Frederick’s friend, stays back in Amana to work in the colonies. But there is something wrong with Matthias; he always seems angry at Amalie when there is no simple explanation for him to act that way.

The goods that colonies manufacture are much needed supplies for the war effort and Matthias decides to deliver the goods to the soldiers. When he leaves, Amalie realizes that her fear for Matthias’s safety is equally as strong. What will become of Friedrich, will Matthias return safely, and will Amalie marry Friedrich? LOVE FINDS YOU IN AMANA, IOWA is a richly told story of life in the Amana Society and the people who live and love there.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Love Finds You in Amana, Iowa, go HERE.

Enjoy!!

Book Review- Canary Island Song by Robin Jones Gunn

noreply@blogger.com (Jenn) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 20:07:00 +0000

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Canary Island Song Howard Books; Original edition (July 5, 2011) by Robin Jones Gunn

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Robin Jones Gunn was born in Wisconsin and lived on a dairy farm until her family moved to southern California when she was five years old. She grew up in Orange County and spent her summers at Newport Beach with friends from her church youth group. After attending Biola University and Capernwray Bible School in Austria, Robin and Ross were married and spent the next two decades working together in youth ministry.

It was the young teens at Robin’s church who challenged her to write stories for them. She hadn’t thought much about being a writer, but took their request to heart and set her alarm for 3am, three days a week. With two small children it was the only time she could find to write the first story about Christy Miller. After two years and ten rejections the novel Summer Promise was accepted for publication in 1988. Robin hasn’t stopped writing since. Over 4 million copies of her 75 books have sold and can be found in a dozen translations all over the world.

Robin and her husband now live in Hawai’i where Ross is a counselor and Robin continues to write to the sound of tropical birds chattering in the palm trees outside her window. Their children are grown but manage to come to the islands with their families every chance they get. Robin's awards include: three Christy awards for excellence in fiction, a Gold Medallion finalist, Mt. Hermon Pacesetter and the Mt. Hermon Writer of the Year award. Robin travels extensively and is a frequent key-note speaker at various events around the world. She serves on the Board of Directors for Media Associates International and Jerry Jenkin’s Christian Writer’s Guild.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Carolyn’s grown daughter tells her she needs to “get a life,” Carolyn decides it’s time to step out of her familiar routine as a single woman in San Francisco and escape to her mother’s home in the Canary Islands. Since Carolyn’s mother is celebrating her seventieth birthday, the timing of Carolyn’s visit makes for a perfect surprise.
    The surprise, however, is on Carolyn when she sees Bryan Spencer, her high school summer love. It’s been seven years since Carolyn lost her husband, but ever since that tragic day, her life has grown smaller and closed in. The time has come for Carolyn to get her heart back. It takes the gentle affection of her mother and aunts, as well as the ministering beauty and song of the islands to draw Carolyn into the fullness of life. She is nudged along by a Flamenco dance lesson, a defining camel ride and the steady gaze of Bryan’s intense blue-gray eyes.
    Is it too late for Carolyn to trust Bryan? Can Carolyn believe that Bryan has turned into something more than the wild beach boy who stole her kisses so many years ago on a balmy Canary night?
    Carolyn is reminded that Christopher Columbus set sail from the Canary Islands in 1492 on his voyage to discover the New World. Is she ready to set sail from these same islands to discover her new life?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Canary Island Song, go HERE.

Enjoy!!