MemoriesOvertakingMe

Best Recipes from the Farmer's Wife Cookbook by Beverly Hudson

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 03:41:00 +0000

Best Recipes from the Farmer's Wife Cookbook

Over 250 Blue-Ribbon Recipes

by Beverly Hudson

Via Netgalley "This revised, four-color edition of The Farmer’s Wife Cookbook features country-kitchen recipes that appeared in Midwestern America’s Farmer’s Wife magazine between 1893 and 1939.

Beloved by home cooks since the magazine was first published, the recipes resonate now more than ever as many of us—from the countryside, city, and in between—return from quick meals on the go to slow, scratch cooking; fresh and wholesome ingredients (often homegrown, self-made, or from the farmer’s market); and the tradition of Sunday dinners and eating together with family and friends.

Best Recipes from the Farmer’s Wife Cookbook brings together the most popular, easy-to-follow recipes and variations along with dozens of menus that originated in farm kitchens nationwide and appeared on the pages of the magazine over its publication around the start of the twentieth century. This new edition is illustrated with color photographs and completely redesigned to appeal to a modern-day cook who wants to bring the warmth and family of the Farmer’s Wife to their own kitchen.Recipes include: Macaroni and CheesePie—all kinds!Southern Fried ChickenFried Green TomatoesSpiced Oatmeal CookiesMichigan Cherry PieApple Plum JamPear HoneyCorn ChowderSwedish MeatballsStuffed Sweet PotatoesAnd hundreds more! Wherever you live, this down-home cookbook is the perfect companion to a renewed appreciation for family life and comforting, back-to-basics cooking."

This was such a sweet trip down memory lane. My mother had cookbooks very similar to this when I was a child, and I would spend hours just reading the cookie sections. While Best Recipes from the Farmer's Wife Cookbook does have many delicious savory classic recipes like Swedish meatballs and Stuffed Pork Lion, Id have to say i was most impressed with the cookie, cakes and other dessert recipes. So many tried and true classic recipes! I highly recommend Best Recipes from the Farmer's Wife Cookbook to anyone looking for a great classic American recipe cookbook.

Best Recipes from the Farmer's Wife Cookbook was provided digitally via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

While this was provided digitally I just might have to have a print copy for my own cookbook collection!

Betty Cocker's Ultimate Cookie Book

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 03:29:00 +0000

Betty Crocker's - Ultimate Cookie Book

Via Goodreads "Here are more than 175 recipes--fully tested in the Betty Crocker Kitchens for perfect results--for delectable cookies of every kind for every occasion. Includes drop cookies, rolled cookies, molded cookies, brownies, oatmeal cookies, bar cookies, jam bars, sugar cookies, and refrigerator cookies. 62 full-color photographs; line drawings."

8 years ago, I became a mother and ditched this review blog entirely. I've missed it through the years but just never had the time or desire to return...until now. 8 years later, homeschooling mom of a blended family of 4 kiddos ...i decided to go back to my lovely review hobby...this time my obsession is cookbooks and homesteading books.

I decided that my kitchen could use some well-loved used cookbooks and ordered a few classic books from Abebooks.com. I've received a few so far and have to say that I absolutely LOVE used books...especially used books that have been gently written in. My favorite are books that have old newspaper or magazine clippings or bookmarks. Out of the handful of used cookbooks I've received so far this was the messiest. Page 7, "The All-American Chocolate Chip Cookie" recipe was covered is harden flour (at least that's what I hope that is)

Anyhoo, this book was packed with delicious sounding cooking recipes. Quite a few classics. I enjoyed that this book included quite a few photos of the cookies, which werent too "old fashioned" looking as this book was publised in the early 90s.

I decided to give Pg. 176 Linzer Torte Bars a try. I absolutely adore linzer torte cookies but have never felt i had the patience enough to actually make the cookies. This recipe was quite fantastic and easy. Who needs a cookie...bars are SO much easier.

I did change the recipe just a smidge by using ground almonds and a lemon curd filling. It was heavenly and my kiddos highly approved.

Sweet Talk Cookies by Hayley Callaway

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 02:57:00 +0000

Sweet Talk Cookies

Creative Designs for Birthdays, Holidays, and Everyday

by Hayley Callaway

"Finally, a cookie book that’s sweet and sassy! Sweet Talk Cookies has gloriously out-of-the-ordinary cookie designs.

If you’re sick of the same-old cookies, if you can’t possibly decorate another bland tree or stocking, look no further. Hayley Callaway, founder of Hayley Cakes and Cookies (@thehayleycakes), has just what you need—whether that’s a taco truck and message cookie that says “Feed me and tell me I’m pretty” or a T-rex hanging Christmas lights. When it comes to designs, this is a book filled with cookies that have character, for year-round fun. Chapters span the seasons, including both holiday-related motifs and designs that simply celebrate something like summer fun (helllooo snow cones!).

If you’re looking to really make these cookies your own, you’ll love the creative lettering workshop. Once you master the art of writing with icing, you can customize to your heart’s content!"

Such a pretty book filled with many ideas for decorating sugar cookies! Thankfully not just the usual Christmas cookie but various other holidays/themes like Eggs & Bacon and even a Tie Dye shirt.
What I enjoyed most is the detailed steps provided for decorating, that just might give me the confidence to give one of these beautiful designs a try.  
The author, Hayley Callaway (Hayley Cakes and Cookies) also included a few cookie and icing recipes, including her Glaze Icing recipe that after over 100,000 batches has perfected. 

A cute, pretty book that would also look nice on any cookie lover's coffee table!

Sweet Talk Cookies was provided digitally via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 
I just might have to purchase a printed copy just for my cookbook collection.

Shallow Pond by Alissa Grosso

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 26 May 2013 16:30:00 +0000

Shallow Pond by Alissa Grosso (Release Date July 8th 2013)

blurb via goodreads

"Sisters uncover an unbelievable family secret

Barbara “Babie” Bunting is constantly mistaken for her sisters, but she’s determined not to end up like her family. She doesn’t plan to stick around Shallow Pond after graduation, and she certainly won’t be ruined by a broken heart. That is, until fellow orphan Zach Faraday walks into the picture, and Babie can’t deny their chemistry.

When her oldest sister, Annie, comes down with a mysterious illness—initially dismissed as “love sickness”—Babie and Zach start investigating what exactly killed the girls’ mother and why their late father became so consumed by grief. What they find changes everything."

Review: Shallow Pond was a completely unexpected and unpredictable book! I have found myself constantly predicting the out come of books and movies lately, and Shallow Pond threw me for a loop. Without giving any spoilers, I have to say that Shallow Pond is a great YA sci-fi read! This is the perfect read for the younger reader who isn't into Sci-fi but would like to start. I do have to say that the characters were a bit difficult to connect to. They were written badly..just needed a bit more depth.

Overall, Shallow Pond was a great read that I recommend to all readers!

Special Thanks to NetGalley and Flux books for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

If He Had Been with Me by Laura Nowlin

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 26 May 2013 15:50:00 +0000

If He Had Been With Me by Laura Nowlin

Blurb via Goodreads-
"Throughout their whole childhood, Finn and Autumn were inseparable—they finished each other's sentences, they knew just what to say when the other person was hurting. But one incident in middle school puts them in separate social worlds come high school, and Autumn has been happily dating James for the last 2 years. But she's always wondered what if..."

Review:
I could not put this book down. I was sucked in from the start! The only thing that bothered me about the book was the writing style..I'm having a hard time trying to describe it but it was almost middle grade like. However, I quickly became use to it while learning more about the interesting characters. Autumn and Finn were wonderfully written, however I would have liked more "scenes" with them. It seems that the author focused a lot more on Autumns' life and friends, than her relationship with Finn. I don't think we learned enough about Finn.

Overall this was a wonderful book! If you plan on reading this, have tissues near by!

Special Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

Rebel Spirits by Lois Ruby

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:51:00 +0000

blurb via goodreads

"Infused with history and mystery, this tale of ghosts, love, and murder takes place in present-day Gettysburg, where the Civil War still looms large.

Lori Chase doesn't know what to think about ghosts. She may have seen a few in the past, but those were just childish imaginings...right? Only now that she is living in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, spirits seem to be on everyone's mind. The town is obsessed with its bloody Civil War history, and the old inn that Lori's parents run is supposedly haunted by the souls of dead soldiers.

Then Lori meets one such soldier--the devastatingly handsome Nathaniel Pierce. Nathaniel's soul cannot rest, and he desperately needs Lori's help. Because Nathaniel was not killed in the famous battle. He was murdered. Lori begins to investigate the age-old mystery, stumbling upon shocking clues and secrets.

At the same time, she can't help falling for Nathaniel, just as he is falling for her..."

Review:
Rebel Spirits was a wonderful, fast paced read. I really loved the history aspect of the book, Lois Ruby did a marvelous job. The characters were well written and the story was interesting. This was clean and easy to read, perfect for young adults (and older). Great read and I can't wait to read more from this author.

Special Thanks to NetGalley and Scholastic Inc. for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

taking a weekend break from blog posting because......

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 12 May 2013 22:45:00 +0000

The Secret Ingredient by Stewart Lewis

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sat, 11 May 2013 16:37:00 +0000

blurb via goodreads

"Sixteen-year-old Olivia loves living in Silverlake, Los Angeles, with her dads, Bell and Enrique, and her brother, Jeremy. But when Olivia discovers that Bell's restaurant, FOOD, is in trouble, she applies for a job at a casting agency. The day of her interview, Olivia meets a psychic in an elevator who tells her that this summer will be pivotal. Soon after, Olivia stumbles upon a vintage cookbook with handwritten notes in the margins and starts to date a gorgeous boy named Theo. As Olivia reads the notes in the cookbook and cooks the recipes, she forms a kinship with the previous owner and becomes increasingly aware of the emptiness she feels without a mother. When Olivia discovers her birthmother's name and address, there's nothing to stop Olivia from meeting her. But sometimes the things we search for are the things we've always known."

Review:

I really loved The Secret Ingredient but the characters fell flat, I didn't feel much emotion from them. While they were still interesting and the different story lines were well thought of, some of the scenarios just fizzled. I really enjoyed the overall concept of the book and would love to read more from the author.

Special Thanks to Netgalley and Random House Children's Books for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

Parissa Chamomile Body Sugar Natural Hair Removal System review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Wed, 08 May 2013 06:30:00 +0000

Body Sugar - Chamomile
(from their website)
"Sugar waxing is a great natural hair removal treatment. Gentle on skin, yet tough on hair. Body Sugaring paste is water washable."
"Chamomile Body Sugar: a natural, washable hair remover infused with soothing Chamomile, gently lifts away hair from the root for clean, salon-smooth results up to 6 weeks. Includes vial of Azulene Oil to soothe & soften skin and prevent ingrown hair

3 Easy Steps: 1. warm sugar 2.apply thin layer 3. zip of with strips
Ideal for: beginners & pros.
Contains: 140ml sugar, 20 washable strips, easy to follow photo-instructions, 8 ml Azulene oil, 3 spatulas.
Satisfaction Guaranteed: Read Instructions & cautions before use."
" Ingredients:

wax:, sucrose, aqua, glycerin, chamomilla recutita, citric acid
azulene oil:, isopropyl mystrate (vegetable source), tocopheryl acetate (vitamin e), azulene (chamomilla recutita extract), menthol crystals"

Review:
So, I am a bit of a beginner when it comes to waxing. I was excited yet nervous to try this at the same time. I was so worried about the pain that I took my time to try this. I totally wish I didn't because, wow, this waxing kit is amazing!! I'll admit I made a huge sticky mess of this, my hands became a sticky monster...I accidentally got wax all over a towel. I thought to myself, "omg how am I ever going to get this stuff off when I'm finished" The moment my hands an towel were put under water, the stickiness disappeared! No soap was even needed! This stuff is seriously a miracle! So I followed the directions (im including pictures of the directions because I'm really glad they included pictures!) besides me making a sticky mess (and its only really because I'm a newbie at waxing) this kit was extremely easy to use. I heated it up for a tiny bit, just enough to make the body sugar runny like honey and I applied a very thin layer to my hairy leg, quickly patted a strip down and quickly "ripped" the strip off. Was there lots of pain? NOPE, no pain at all! The strip took most of the hair off..just a few strands were left. It took me a while but I was able to successfully remove all the hair from my legs, painlessly! After washing the wax off I used the Azulene Oi, which soothed and moisturized my legs. I did have a few little red dots around my legs which is very normal and they disappeared within hours. My legs look and feel amazing. One of the best parts about this system is that everything is reusable. The strips can be washed off and used again. Even though I made a mess there was still A LOT of wax left over in the jar.. in fact it still looks brand new. So I let it cool off and put the lid back on. This is not just a one time kit, this can be used many many times.

This hair removal system is perfect for teenagers or beginner waxers like me. Absolutely wonderful product!

I checked out Parrisa's website and the have a roll on applicator! I will be investing in that in the future!!

http://parissa.com/

https://twitter.com/parissawax

https://www.facebook.com/parissa

Special Thanks to the awesome people of Parissa for providing this product in exchange for an honest review.

NYR Organic White Tea Enriching Facial Mask review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Mon, 06 May 2013 13:00:00 +0000

us.nyrorganic.com/shop/brandielorenz

White Tea Enriching Facial Mask
(from their website)

"About the product

Deeply nourishing

Gently cleansing

Detoxifying

With anti-ageing, antioxidant white tea

Directions
Using fingertips, apply a thin, even layer over clean skin, avoiding the eyes and directly around the mouth. Leave for up to 10 minutes then rinse with tepid water and pat dry. Use once a week or as needed for stressed skin. Use enough to cover the face with a thin, even layer of mask. A teaspoon of the mask should provide enough coverage."

Review:

I LOVE THIS MASK!! This is my holy grail of facial masks! My skin can sometimes be really dry and sensitive, especially around my nose (I get flaky dry skin in the creases of my nose). This mask is so gentle and my face felt so unbelievably soft..for days.. and the flaky dry skin vanished!

embarrassing picture alert

The mask is actually all over my face- not just my forehead. It actually blends into the skin well and didn't tighten when it dried. And after 10 minutes, It rinsed well also. This mask really refreshed my skin. It would be absolutely perfect to use after a long day outdoors! My face is very happy!

https://us.nyrorganic.com/shop/brandielorenz/

Special Thanks to NYR Organic for providing this product in exchange for an honest review

Isis Essentials Black Pepper & Juniper Oil Detoxify review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 05 May 2013 22:53:00 +0000

http://www.isisessentials.com/

Black Pepper & Juniper Oil - Detoxify
from their website
"In antiquity, Indian monks believed peppercorns were great energizers, and were prescribed seven to nine peppercorns a day when they traveled long distances.
Nowadays, you may enjoy the lively taste of fresh ground pepper on your food, but you probably never realized that the essential oil in black pepper is well known as a powerful digestive remedy.
The essential oils in this blend cleanse your skin from the inside out, increase circulation, burn fat and help reduce cellulite. Jojoba and sweet almond oils moisturize deeply. Apply this blend directly to your cellulite to help rejuvenate and tone skin, and visibly improve the texture."
" Custom Blend of organic essential oils including: Cupressus sempervirens (Cypress), Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium), Citrus paradisi (Grapefruit), Juniperus communis (Juniper), Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel), Thymus zygis (Thyme), Piper nigrum (Black Pepper), Angelica archangelica(Angelica), Santalum spicatum (Sandalwood)
Suspended in a custom blend of organic carrier oils including: Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba), Sesamum indicum (Sesame), Prunus dulcis (Sweet Almond)"

How to Use:

For best results, after skin stimulating and bathing,pump a small amount into your palm and rub your hands together. Take 4 deep breaths to receive the aromatherapy benefits and then massage the oil into your skin using firm strokes and circular motions, always moving towards your heart."

Review:

First I have to say how much I LOVE this sent!! When I think about black pepper I only associate it with food...but after trying this essential oil mixture I am in love with this unique sent!! Black Pepper & Juniper are a marvelous combination. I usually am more of a fan of fruity or sweet floral scents so this is quite the change for me. Its peppery-woodsy with a tiny bit of sweetness. I would wear this as a perfume too! Isis Essentials has opened my eyes to the properties of peppercorn! After massaging the oil I felt rejuvenated and my skin felt moisturized. This essential oil combination states that it can increase ,burn fat and help reduce cellulite. I only had a little sample size, so I don't know how true that is but I love this sent so much that I will definitely buying more..and massaging A Lot into my tummy! :)

http://www.isisessentials.com/

https://www.facebook.com/IsisEssentials

https://twitter.com/IsisEssentials

Special thanks to the wonderful people of Isis Essentials for providing this product in exchange for an honest review

Sunday Social

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 19:00:00 +0000

Did you sleepwalk as a child?

I dont think so, Ive never woken up anywhere weird or where I didn't fall asleep..and no one has ever mentioned anything so ..nope

Did you ever try to run away or sneak out of your house?
I have a memory from when I was really young, that I got mad at my mom and decided to run away but I don't think I got very far Heh.. *Mom if you ever read this skip to the next question please* :-D in regards to sneaking out.. I had a few moments of sneaking out of the house in the middle of the night with my friends in high school...just the usual high school shenanigans..nothing too crazy. I did it maybe twice, and it was never to anywhere dangerous.

Did you have any imaginary friends?

From what I remember I was more of a blanket kid, although I can remember wishing I could have an imaginary friend..but I didn't... wierd, right?

My favorite blanket had a satin trim and I would rub the satin through my ring and pinky finger.

Did you ever go toilet papering?
Nope, those weren't the high school "shenanigans" I was into! :)

Did you ever sneak tv shows you weren’t allowed to watch?

My parents were cool parents and never really told me what I could and couldn't watch. In fact one of my favorite movies when I was a kid was The Best Little Whore House In Texas. My mother and I use to sing and dance along to it...(and with Barry Manilow :-) ) It wasn't until I was a teenager until I finally understood what the movie was about. I thought to myself "omg my mother let me watch this!!?...she's cool!"

The Twisted Window by Lois Duncan

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 07:30:00 +0000

blurb via goodreads

"Tracy, a high school junior, becomes embroiled in the problems of a strange boy, who asks her assistance in "snatching" his half-sister from her father who has allegedly kidnapped her."

Review:
The Twisted Window was originally published in the late 1980's and they have now modernized it and re-published it last year. I honestly would have preferred the original published copy as I didn't care for the Twisted Window. On the positive side, It was easy to read and I finished it all in one sitting. At times I found myself just wanting it to be finished with and when I was finished I thought " ...okay... moving on!" Overall, the Twisted Window was...okay. It wasn't the worst Ive ever read, but wasn't the best either.

Special Thanks to NetGalley and Open Road Media for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

HollyBeth Organics Skin Care review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 21:00:00 +0000

About HollyBeth Organics
(via their website)
"HollyBeth Organics began as a hobby as HollyBeth was traveling the globe. After 50 countries, 50 years and an epiphany, she decided to put her passion to the test and create HollyBeth Organics, a USDA certified organic skin care line. The story began while living in Spain, when a friend’s mother told her to always use eye cream. After collecting too many eye creams from her travels, she decided to create her own. The result is a complete line of effective skincare products. HollyBeth hand selects ingredients and formulates her unique recipes using traditional homeopathic remedies from around the world. Her focus is on results oriented plants and essential oils that are free of chemicals and synthetics that are safe for the entire family. All products are lovingly created by HollyBeth in artisan batches in a converted former cotton warehouse in Atlanta."

Grits & Honey Scrub

"When HollyBeth was young her mother would use cornmeal as an exfoliant. Years later her mother suggested adding grits to make an all over body scrub. HollyBeth added tupelo honey, Vitamin E and a tad of organic sweet almond oil and voila! an exfoliant and moisturizer that leaves your skin soft and smooth.

To Use: Apply a small amount to fingertips with water and gently massage face, neck and hands for a deliciously smooth exfoliation.

Ingredients: Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Meal*, Honey, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (organic sweet almond) Oil*, Tocopherol (organic vitamin E). *organic

Gluten-Free & Cruelty-Free"

Lavender Hand Cream

" Sweet and rich, this fragrant hand cream provides a relaxing effect to help uplift your spirits and reduce emotional stress. The moisturizing properties of camellia, jojoba, and sweet almond oils, coupled with the antioxidant properties of Vitamin E, will leave your hands silky and nourished.To Use: Massage a small amount into your hands to smooth and hydrate the skin. Great for the entire body as well. Avoid eye area. Keep in cool place away from heat.Ingredients: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil*, Camellia Oleifera (Camellia) Seed Oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Beeswax*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Lecithin* *organic Gluten-Free & Cruelty-Free"

Lemon Lime Shea Butter Cream

“This luxurious shea butter is certified USDA organic and moisturizes your skin while uplifting your sprits with essential oils that are simply heavenly. Soothes and pampers your skin with all the Southern Charm that this Atlanta skin care connoisseur is known for. It’s like having a jar of sunshine.”
- Rachelle Carson Begley Organic Spa Magazine To Use: Multi-use shea butter cream moisturizeres and hydrates all skin types; even great for your hair!

Ingredients: Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter ) Fruit*, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil*, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil*. *organic Vegan, Gluten-Free &

Cruelty-Free"

Rose Geranium Face Moisturizer

" This velvety moisturizer hydrates and softens even sensitive skin, especially good for those with rosacea. The nourishing, balancing effects of rose, geranium, rose hip and sea buckthorn oils leave skin silky smooth. Vitamin E’s antioxidant effects ward off environmental toxins and diminish the signs of aging. Try our chamomile foaming facial cleanser and our rose geranium toner that will complete your facial regime.To Use: Massage a small amount into face and neck . Use morning and night. Keep in a cool dry place away from heat.Ingredients: Camellia Oleifera (Camellia) Seed Oil*, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil (sweet almond oil), * Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*,

Rosa Mosqueta (Rosehip) Fruit Oil*, Beeswax*, Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn)

Fruit Oil*, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Pelargonium Graveolens Oil (rose geranium oil)*, Pelargonium Graveolens, Lecithin*. * organic Gluten-Free &

Cruelty-Free

Review:

I absolutely love all 4 of these products. The Grits & Honey scrub was gentle and left my skin feeling soft and refreshed. The Lavender hand cream smells wonderful and my dry hands soaked up the cream! The Lemon Lime Shea Butter was prefect for my dry legs and elbows..the scent is a wonderful summery smell. The Rose Geranium Dace Moisturizer is light and absorbs well, and left my face soft. These great products are Gluten and Cruelty-Free. I highly recommend!

http://www.hollybethorganics.com/

http://www.hollybethorganics.com/our-blog/

https://www.facebook.com/HollyBeths

http://pinterest.com/hollybetha/

http://www.youtube.com/user/hollybethsnaturallux

@HollyBethA

Special Thanks to the wonderful people of Holly Beth Organics for providing these products in exchange for an honest review

Plain Admirer by Patricia Davids

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000

blurb via goodreads

"Love Is Only A Letter Away..So what if Joann Yoder's Amish community deems her a spinster? She's content to stay single. In the meantime, she's working hard to finally buy her dream house. So it's problematic when she's fired from her job to make room for the owner's nephew, Roman Weaver. His blue eyes aside, she simply can't stand him! Good thing she has the secret letters she's been exchanging with a mystery man to keep her going. But who is writing her letters? And could she possibly fall for him in real life, too?"

Review:
So (if you haven't already noticed) I am slightly obsessed with the Amish lifestyle. I seriously would give up electricity for a chance to have my own farm. I'm not a very religious person (more spiritual than anything) so I can't really see myself becoming Amish in that sense, but one of these days I swear I am going to have a small farm...oops Ok sorry I'll stop blabbering now..
Plain Admirer was an absolute wonderful, simple easy read. The chemistry between the characters was spot on. The storyline held my interest and the romance made me smile. Plain Admirer is the perfect lazy Sunday afternoon read. I can't wait to read more from Patricia Davids!

Special Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review

Sunday Social

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 18:58:00 +0000

1. What is your shopping weakness?

Anything Hello Kitty related!

I actually have weird shopping phases. The past few months I has a weakness for cosmetics/beauty products..the past few weeks have been about jewelry...nothing expensive of course..we're talking the stuff you can get at superstores, payless, and claire's...yes I'm a thirty something who still enjoys Claire's jewelry! and I do love me a weekly shopping trip to Target. Oh and do Subscription boxes count as a shopping weakness?

2. What is your food weakness?
It use to be pizza. I would never pass up pizza, no matter what. I have been addicted to pizza ..well basically forever. Since gastric bypass surgery I find pizza disgusting, I don't get to eat much or want to for that matter and to think of wasting a meal on nothing but bread, sauce and a little tiny bit of topping isn't worth it to me. BUT i have no problems snacking on chips... LOL yes..im a wierdo..i dont even understand myself sometimes.. but chips...any kind of salty chips are my weakness...ok so is candy...ugh... now you all know why I got gastric bypass!

3. What is your go to movie to watch when nothing is on?
pretty much any teenage 80's movie- the ones below have been watched the most its either those or any Gilmore Girl's epidode...seriously Ive seen every episode at least 10 times.

4. What is your go to breakfast food?

Slightly green banana's~ my husband thinks i'm gross but I love banana's that aren't completely rip yet..they have to still have a little green to them.....they taste so much better!

5. Do you drink coffee? If so, how do you take it?

Does Coffee Ice cream count? I seriously dislike hot coffee (i like hot tea though) But my go to if I want anything to do with coffee is

I do enjoy Starbucks frappacinos. I really cant..or uhm shouldnt... have either but I have splurged once or twice since my surgery and can have my ultimate favorite coffee ice cream in tiny moderation!

The Rules For Disappearing by Ashley Elston

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 16:59:00 +0000

blurb via goodreads

"She’s been six different people in six different places: Madeline in Ohio, Isabelle in Missouri, Olivia in Kentucky . . . But now that she’s been transplanted to rural Louisiana, she has decided that this fake identity will be her last.

Witness Protection has taken nearly everything from her. But for now, they’ve given her a new name, Megan Rose Jones, and a horrible hair color. For the past eight months, Meg has begged her father to answer one question: What on earth did he do – or see – that landed them in this god-awful mess? Meg has just about had it with all the Suits’ rules — and her dad’s silence. If he won’t help, it’s time she got some answers for herself.

But Meg isn’t counting on Ethan Landry, an adorable Louisiana farm boy who’s too smart for his own good. He knows Meg is hiding something big. And it just might get both of them killed. As they embark on a perilous journey to free her family once and for all, Meg discovers that there’s only one rule that really matters — survival"

Review:
The Rules For Disappearing was a great book! I was instantly sucked in from the start with the interesting storyline. While it was slightly predictable, I still found it to be well thought of and well written. The book had a good mixture of action, drama, suspense, mystery and romance. I can't wait to read more from Ashley Elston!
This was a clean book and I would recommend it to YA or older.

Special Thanks to NetGalley and Disney Book Group for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

Gorgeous by Paul Rudnick

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 16:31:00 +0000

blurb via goodreads

"Inner beauty wants out.

When eighteen-year-old Becky Randle’s mother dies, she’s summoned from her Missouri trailer park to meet Tom Kelly, the world’s top designer. He makes her an impossible offer: He’ll create three dresses to transform Becky from a nothing special girl into the most beautiful woman who ever lived.

Becky thinks Tom is a lunatic, or that he’s producing a hidden camera show called World’s Most Gullible Poor People. But she accepts, and she’s remade as Rebecca. When Becky looks in the mirror, she sees herself – an awkward mess of split ends and cankles. But when anyone else looks at Becky, they see pure five-alarm hotness.

Soon Rebecca is on the cover of Vogue, the new Hollywood darling, and dating celebrities. Then Becky meets Prince Gregory, heir to the British throne, and everything starts to crumble. Because Rebecca aside, Becky loves him. But to love her back, Gregory would have to look past the blinding Rebecca to see the real girl inside. And Becky knows there’s not enough magic in the world.

A screamingly defiant, hugely naughty, and impossibly fun free fall past the cat walks, the red carpets, and even the halls of Buckingham Palace, Gorgeous does the impossible: It makes you see yourself clearly for the first time."

Review:
I had actually went into this book without reading the blurb or anything else about the book. I was sold on the cover alone. Gorgeous is quite a quirky interesting read. This modern day fairy tale will have you laughing yet also have you saying "huh? what just happened" While this book is listed under the young adult genre, I would classify it more for a "new" adult. Some of the language in the book was quite over the top for a younger reader. While the characters were extremely well thought of, I didn't really care for the main character as much as I should..I cant explain why I didn't care for her..just found her annoying I suppose, in fact I wish the book had been more about her quirky best friend. I am still undecided as to if I really enjoyed Gorgeous or not, there were certain aspects that made the book enjoyable, however It seemed a bit all over the place and hard to follow at times. But, *spoiler alert* Ok, So I rarely give any spoilers but the ending of this book bugged me. Since it was a fairy tale, the author gave a brief "rest of life" history on the characters. Paul Rudnick should have continued the story with another book, with Becky's best friend Rocher, being the main character.*end spoiler*
Overall, I suppose Gorgeous was 3.5 out of 5 stars for me. Definitely an interesting book. Recommend to new adult and older.

Special Thanks to Netgalley and Scholastic Inc for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

Moor Spa Botanical Shampoo and Conditioner review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 07:30:00 +0000

Botanical Shampoo

"Description:

A wonderful treat for your hair combining moor water with extracts of hops, rosemary, nettle and gotu kola.

Ingredients Used:

Aqua
Coco Glucoside
Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate
Heilmoor Clay
Sodium Chloride
Caprylyl Glycol
Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
Glyceryl Undecylenate
Glyceryl Caprylate
Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil
Lavandula Angustifolia Oil"

Botanical Conditioner
"Description:
Moor Spa Botanical Conditioner combines hair-enriching extracts of hops and nettle with silk protein which creates a silky, shiny finish.Ingredients Used:
Aqua
Stearyl Alcohol
Cetrimonium Chloride
Heilmoor Clay
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
Glyceryl Undecylenate
Glyceryl Caprylate
Tocopherol Acetate
Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides
Glycerin
Humulus Lupulus Extract
Urtica Dioica Extract
Cymbopogon Citratus Leaf Oil
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil
Lavandula Angustifolia Oil
Cananga Odorata Flower Oil
Juniperus Virginiana Wood Oil
Hydrolysed Keratin"
Review:
I am SO happy that I was able to try this shampoo and conditioner. The shampoo is great, it lathers well and my hair felt clean. But the conditioner...it is fabulous!! Starting with the smell, whoa! I never thought I would enjoy such a unique woodsy scent in my conditioner. I don't know what exactly the smell is or what ingredient it is coming from but I was really blown away by all of the different extract ingredients. Some of these I have never even heard of. Such as Nettle.. I think I may have heard of it..but I did a little search and found that "Nettle is used in shampoo to control dandruff and is said to make hair more glossy" and Cedar ok so I know what cedar is..but having it in my conditioner..whew weird right?
So, what does my hair think about this conditioner?... My Hair likes...my hair likes A LOT! My hair has been so shiny and smooth all week long and I have even gotten some curl at the ends, which I don't usually have. I had gotten an intense hair condition masque a week or to ago in one of my subscription boxes and decided to give it a whirl last night instead of using the Moor Spa conditioner. Let's just say that my hair is very upset with me today. It is limp lifeless and dull. And this hair masque value is pretty pricey..I'm really surprised that Moor Spa Botanical Conditioner works ten times better than a pricey hair masque.
This conditioner is unbelievable and I must have more!!

Moor Spa also has a hair & scalp mask .. I MUST get my hands on this product!

www.moorspa.com

Special Thanks to the amazing people of Moor Spa for providing these products in exchange for an honest review

Kirk's Fragrance Free CoCo Castile Bar soap review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 07:00:00 +0000

Kirk's Fragrance Free Coco Castile Bar Soap
(via their website)
"Since 1839, Kirk’s Original Coco Castile Soap has given the consumer a high quality, natural soap at an affordable price. Today, we offer a fragrance free bar!

No Animal By-Products
Never Tested on Animals
Hypoallergenic
Biodegradable
No Synthetic Detergents

Ingredients
Coconut Soap, Water, Vegetable Glycerin, Coconut Oil"

Review:
My husband has sensitive skin so I thought this would be perfect for him to try out as well. Just the fact that this soap only contains 4 ingredients really impressed me. I found the soap to be extremely gentle. It lathered good and rinsed well for me. However, my husband was left with a bit of soap residue on his hands after the shower. I didn't have issues whatsoever with this soap and found it to be really good. I highly recommend this to anyone with sensitive skin or anyone looking for natural soap.

www.kirksnatural.com

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kirks-Natural/177457285605562

Special Thanks to the wonderful people of Kirk's Natural for providing this product in exchange for an honest review.

Grandpa's Orange Essence Soap review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 06:30:00 +0000

Orange Essence Soap

(via their website)

"A Fanciful Indulgence"

Olive Oil enhances this creamy citrus bar making it ideal for dry skin. Chamomile helps relax and comfort you. 3.25 oz"

" Ingredients

Coconut oil, palm oil, purified water, vegetable glycerin, chamomilla recutita extract, olive fruit oil, witch hazel, essence of orange"

Review:
Grandpa's Orange Essence soap smells SO good that I seriously wished that I could have taken a big bite out of it. It smells like a orange popsicle, a wonderfully sweet orange scent. The soap was gentle and soothing and left my skin well moisturized. Granpa's Orange Essence Soap left my skin very happy!

http://www.grandpabrands.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Grandpa-Brands-Co/118425791558734

Special Thanks to Grandpa Brands for providing this product in exchange for an honest review

Ralph Lauren Big Pony #3 Yellow review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:30:00 +0000

"Big Pony RL 3 Yellow is infused with the natural radiance of pear notes and mimosa, creating a dazzling floral scent.

Ralph Lauren Big Pony #3 Yellow, the free-spririted fragrance. Eccentric, rebellious and independent, this Floral Green fragrance highlights Pear & Mimosa. The crisp, bright scent represents ultimate optimism and natural feminine radiance for a woman who dances to the beat of her own drum."

Review:
Big Pony 4 is the perfect summer scent. The light, clean, and refreshing scent is crisp citrusy goodness mixed with a hint of floral. It is a wonderful non-overpowering sent and the light scent lingers for hours. This is a wonderful addition to the Ralph Lauren fragrance line.

www.ralphlauren.com

*ABPR provided this product in exchange for an honest review

NYR Organic Geranium & Orange Shower Gel review

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 18:49:00 +0000

NYR Organics
Geranium & Orange Shower Gel
(via their website)
"About the product

Revitalising

Conditioning

With uplifting essential oils

Directions:
Apply sparingly for gentle cleansing. May also be occasionally used as a shampoo.

Ingredients

Water (Aqua)

Lauryl glucoside

Cocamidopropyl betaine

Sodium cocoamphoacetate

Hydrolyzed oat protein

Calendula officinalis (Marigold) flower extract*

Pelargonium graveolens (Geranium) flower oil*

Citrus aurantium dulcis (Orange) peel oil*

Panthenol

Alcohol denat.

Sodium olive amphoacetate

Levulinic acid

Glycerin

Citric acid

Citral, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool. Natural constituent of essential oils listed.

*Organically produced ingredient.
Made with 65% organic ingredients.
This is a vegan product."

Review:
Geranium & Orange Shower gel is fantastic. It smells amazing and really perked me up. This is a perfect shower gel for those morning wake up showers, I felt refreshed and clean. The gel is gentile and lathered/rinsed well. NYR Organics has made a new fan!

https://us.nyrorganic.com/shop/brandielorenz

https://twitter.com/NYROrganic_US

http://www.youtube.com/user/NYROrganicUS

Special Thanks to NYR Organics for providing this product in exchange for an honest review

belonging (temptation 2) by Karen Ann Hopkins

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 21:13:00 +0000

blurb via goodreads

"I left everything I knew behind.

But it was worth it. He was worth it.

No one thought an ordinary girl like me would last two minutes living with the Amish, not even me. There are a lot more rules and a lot less freedom, and I miss my family and the life I once had. Worst of all, Noah and I aren't even allowed to see each other. Not until I've proven myself.

If I can find a way to make it work, we'll be NOAH & ROSE

together forever.

But not everybody believes this is where I belong."

Review:
Belonging is the sequel to Temptation (my review) and I was sooo excited to finally read it! I loved Temptation so I was eager to read more. I really enjoyed reading Belonging but I got to tell you, if I hadn't have read and loved Temptation, I wouldn't have liked Belonging. For some reason, the magic of Temptation was just a bit lost for me in Belonging. Don't get me wrong, It was still a wonderful book...it just lost a little "oomph" that Temptation brought. This doesn't stop me from wanting to devour the next book, and yes there will be a next book!

Special Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.

Defriended by Ruth Baron

noreply@blogger.com (Memoriesovertakingme) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 20:57:00 +0000

blurb via goodreads

" A friend request from beyond the grave . . .

Jason has met the perfect girl. OK, so maybe he hasn't actually MET Lacey yet, but they talk online all the time. Yet despite spending most nights chatting, Lacey refuses to meet up in person. Suspicious, Jason starts googling, and his cyberstalking leads to a shocking discovery: According to multiple newspapers, Lacey died a year earlier.

Soon, Jason finds himself enmeshed in a disturbing mystery. Has he found a way to iChat with the dead? Or is someone playing a dangerous trick? Either way, Jason has to discover the truth before it's too late. You can't put up away messages from beyond the grave. . ."

Review:
Defriended took me right back to my Fear Street days! I really enjoyed the story. Defriended was easy to read and the characters were interesting. The mystery/suspense aspect was well written. This book seriously made me want to go buy a bunch of Fear Street books for my kindle! I'm so glad that Scholastic is publishing these wonderful teenage gems!

Special Thanks to Netgalley and Scholastic Inc. for providing this e-galley in exchange for an honest review.