Learning to be thrifty

VIPKID - simple puzzle reward

2019-07-01T05:35:00.002-07:00

I snagged an easy and quick reward from the dollar tree this week.

I bought this simple puppy and kitten puzzle. To use this as a reward I simply took all the pieces out of the puzzle and gave the student a piece with each star they earned. There are six pieces so I gave them the last piece on he goodbye slide. The pieces stay in the puzzle well enough to hold the puzzle upright to show the students all the pieces they have earned. My short notice student last night adored the cute animals. It was a win! I love the fact that there was no prep involved it was just ready to go.

This will defiantly stay in my rotation of quick rewards.

What rewards are your go to?

If you are looking to work from home and teach English you can check out my referral link here: VIPKID

Teaching English for VIPKID

2019-06-30T19:10:00.000-07:00

I have been teaching for VIPKID for two years, and love it! Here are my top reasons why:

1. I can work from home.

2. I am able to set my own schedule and hours making it a great second job to help boost income, and those hours can change by the week as my needs change.

3. I adore meeting all students from the other side of the world.

4. Variety: I love that I teach students at all different levels of English proficiency. In the same day I may teach a student is who learning the phrase "My name is" and a student who carries on a conversation with me about their favorite hobbies.

5. No planning!! The lessons are laid out in power points. A quick look at the power points before classes start is all that is required before teaching.

If you are interested in teaching with VIPKID here is my referral code fill free to use it when applying: VICTO0058

New Adventure: Backpacking in Savage Gulf

2019-06-24T20:00:00.005-07:00

My family just returned from our first backpacking camping trip. I grew up camping in pop ups and tents, but never outside of a campground with basic amenities. I love being out in nature and exploring, but have never been brave enough to step into the world of backpacking. So when my husband and I first began tossing around the idea of replacing our annual family vacation with a backpacking trip I was a bit nervous, but I can now say not only did we survive, we enjoyed our first trip into the wilderness.

We spent several weeks planning and prepping our supplies for the trip. Starting out we had no idea what we would need. After spending some time researching and many trips to REI and Academy, we had our gear, and we were ready to start our journey.

We all loaded up in the car and headed out for adventure. We picked a location with a great views and adventures: South Cumberland State Park. We chose to hike out to the Alum Gap campground at Savage Gulf. It was about a four mile hike to our campsite. We started out with a stop on top of a beautiful bluff over looking the gulf to eat our lunch. The view over the gulf was spectacular. We continued our journey along the Big Creek Rim trail to our campsite.

When we made it to our campsite we set up camp quickly. We could hear thunder rolling in. We knew that there was chance of scattered thunderstorms all day. We set up our hammocks. It was a bit of a challenge to get all three set up with the tarps over top in case the rain did come in.

After setting up our hammocks we went in search of water. We were in luck we found a flowing creek about ten minutes from our site.

After filtering our water, we headed back to our site and enjoyed dinner. It was great to sit around the campsite and enjoy our evening. We went to bed early, but ended up not falling to sleep fast, between my daughter jumping into my husband's hammock and the sounds of the night sleep was a little difficult to find, so we made it a late morning.

One of my favorite parts of the trip was waking up and enjoying hot chocolate and oatmeal before packing up camp. We decided to leave using the Laurel Trail back to the ranger station. This trail was a little shorter at about 3 miles and had a completely different feel than the rim trail. It was nice to make our journey a loop so that we saw new things the whole time.

Though I was a little hesitant to begin this adventure I am so glad we jumped in and cannot wait for our next trip out on the trail. There are so many fun and great adventures waiting for us!

Book Review: A Father's Second Chance

2015-11-11T14:30:00.000-08:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Father's Second Chance Love Inspired (July 21, 2015) by Mindy Obenhaus

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the Author: To steal a line from Donny and Marie, I’m a little bit country, a little bit rock-n-roll. I’m trapped in the city, but prefer the country or the mountains.

I love Jesus, my family, and just about anything sweet.

I believe Jesus died for my sins, rose three days later, and will one day return. He has carried me through some of my darkest hours. Without faith in Him, I would be nowhere.

I have a penchant for chocolate, clothes, and shoes. When I’m not penning romance novels, I enjoy cooking, decorating and shopping.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Businesswoman Celeste Thompson has one goal: to make her restaurant and hotel a success. She doesn't need any distractions, even from handsome contractor Gage Purcell and his two adorable little girls. Besides, single dad Gage is just biding his time before a big job at the mines comes through. But as Celeste's project springs to life, their arguments transform into attraction. Gage isn't looking for romance, especially not with another career-driven woman like his ex-wife. But openhearted Celeste is more than just another work-consumed client. She might just be his happily-ever-after.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Father's Second Chance, go HERE.

My Thoughts: This was a great read. The back and forth between Celeste and Gage really made for a good story. Easy read, great for a cold fall or winter day!

Book Review: Ties that Bind

2015-10-16T05:03:00.001-07:00

About This Book

Ariana’s comfortable Old Order Amish world is about to unravel. Will holding tightly to the cords of family keep them together—or simply tear them apart?
Twenty-year-old Ariana Brenneman loves her family and the Old Ways. She has two aspirations: open a café in historic Summer Grove to help support her family’s ever-expanding brood and to keep any other Amish from being lured into the Englisch life by Quill Schlabach.

Five years ago Quill, along with her dear friend Frieda, ran off together, and Ariana still carries the wounds of that betrayal. When she unexpectedly encounters him, she soon realizes he has plans to help someone else she loves leave the Amish.
*
Despite how things look, Quill’s goal has always been to protect Ariana from anything that may hurt her, including the reasons he left. After returning to Summer Grove on another matter, he unearths secrets about Ariana and her family that she is unaware of. His love and loyalty to her beckons him to try to win her trust and help her find a way to buy the café—because when she learns the truth that connects her and a stranger named Skylar Nash, Quill knows it may upend her life forever.

Ties That Bind is the first novel in the Amish of Summer Grove series.
- See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=242924#sthash.gVnm1dRl.dpuf

About This Book

About the Book:

Ariana’s comfortable Old Order Amish world is about to unravel. Will holding tightly to the cords of family keep them together—or simply tear them apart?
Twenty-year-old Ariana Brenneman loves her family and the Old Ways. She has two aspirations: open a café in historic Summer Grove to help support her family’s ever-expanding brood and to keep any other Amish from being lured into the Englisch life by Quill Schlabach.

Five years ago Quill, along with her dear friend Frieda, ran off together, and Ariana still carries the wounds of that betrayal. When she unexpectedly encounters him, she soon realizes he has plans to help someone else she loves leave the Amish.

Despite how things look, Quill’s goal has always been to protect Ariana from anything that may hurt her, including the reasons he left. After returning to Summer Grove on another matter, he unearths secrets about Ariana and her family that she is unaware of. His love and loyalty to her beckons him to try to win her trust and help her find a way to buy the café—because when she learns the truth that connects her and a stranger named Skylar Nash, Quill knows it may upend her life forever.

Ties That Bind is the first novel in the Amish of Summer Grove series.

Ariana’s comfortable Old Order Amish world is about to unravel. Will holding tightly to the cords of family keep them together—or simply tear them apart?
Twenty-year-old Ariana Brenneman loves her family and the Old Ways. She has two aspirations: open a café in historic Summer Grove to help support her family’s ever-expanding brood and to keep any other Amish from being lured into the Englisch life by Quill Schlabach.

Five years ago Quill, along with her dear friend Frieda, ran off together, and Ariana still carries the wounds of that betrayal. When she unexpectedly encounters him, she soon realizes he has plans to help someone else she loves leave the Amish.
*
Despite how things look, Quill’s goal has always been to protect Ariana from anything that may hurt her, including the reasons he left. After returning to Summer Grove on another matter, he unearths secrets about Ariana and her family that she is unaware of. His love and loyalty to her beckons him to try to win her trust and help her find a way to buy the café—because when she learns the truth that connects her and a stranger named Skylar Nash, Quill knows it may upend her life forever.

Ties That Bind is the first novel in the Amish of Summer Grove series. - See more at: http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?work=242924#sthash.gVnm1dRl.dpuf

About This Book

My Thoughts:
What a great book! After reading the description of this book. I knew it was going to be a book I could curl up and enjoy. I did not realize it would be a book that I would not be able to stop reading once I stopped. I read this book over two days because I just had to know how it was going to end for Ariana. I fell in love with Ariana and her strong love for her way of life and family. I quickly started to realize the struggle Quill was dealing with in his efforts to protect Ariana.
My only complaint with this book is that I will have to wait to read the second book in this series until it comes out. I hope the wait is not to long. I can not wait to see how the journey unfolds from her for Ariana, Quill, and Skylar. (I won't go into details on who Skylar is so I don't give away any of the plot twists for this book.) The book was an easy read the story reads well and the author pulls you into the life of the characters very well. I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars. I really enjoyed it.

*I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.

Book Review: Bees in the Garden

2015-09-19T14:00:00.001-07:00

Book Review: Bees in the Garden

By: Maureen Lang

This was a very interesting book. I loved the plot of the this young girl finding her own path while struggling with the father she thought she had and her father's real way of life. The book is very well written bringing the characters to life. There were sections of the book that I felt was a little slow in developing, but in the end I really enjoyed the storyline.
I give this book 4 out of 5 stars!

* I received this book free in exchange for a honest review.

Book Review: Cold as Ice

2015-08-29T14:24:00.005-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Cold as Ice Sydney Lane Press by M.K. Gilroy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mark won’t claim he has done it all in the world of publishing, but he has packed boxes, edited manuscripts, made sales calls, created marketing plans, directed design and illustration, started companies, consulted, agented the works of others, and written advertising and catalog copy. He’s authored, compiled, and ghost written books that have landed on an array of bestsellers lists and sold millions of copies. His first ghost writing project, The Wal-Mart Way, was done for Don Soderquist, Sam Walton’s longtime right-hand man.

In early 2012 he put on a new hat as a fiction author. His debut novel, Cuts Like a Knife, was released in April 2012 and was met with rave reviews from USA Today, Fresh Fiction, Publishers Weekly, and other leading national reviewers. His second novel, Every Breath You Take, second in the Kristen Conner Mystery Series, released in Fall 2012 to similar acclaim. Kristen Conner returns in Cold As Ice, which releases in Fall 2014.

Gilroy has extensive writing credits. He scripted and served as creative consultant for a two-hour training video that was honored with the Award of Excellence by the International Television Association. He has compiled and written close to fifty books and penned hundreds articles and curriculum pieces for a variety of periodicals and publishers.

Gilroy and his wife Amy reside in Brentwood, Tennessee. Their six children are Lindsey, Merrick, Ashley, Caroline, Bo, and Zachary—the youngest has now headed off for college, so he and Amy are officially empty nesters.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Detective Kristen Conner is back on a new murder case. She’s still fighting with her sister—and no surprise, someone new wants to kill her! He was a pillar in his Chicago neighborhood: popular school teacher, devoted father and husband, political activist on behalf of underprivileged children—and a master gardener who liked to plant flowers in his neighbor’s yards. What wasn’t to love about him? Who would want him dead?

When Detective Kristen Conner lands the case she knows from day one who the key suspect is. That’s simple. The person most likely to kill you is someone close that you know and love. But the wife? She was always at her husband’s side and just as passionate about his causes as he was. No way could this loving wife and mother of three be a killer. Right? Mix in her on-again, off-again relationship with FBI Agent Austin Reynolds, a quick trip to New York City where Kristen helps her media-star sister for a new apartment—only to discover the body of a man who appears to have been executed by a professional killer on a run through Central Park—and Kristen Conner is once again swept into a world of danger, intrigue, and a confusing love life.

What she doesn’t know just might kill her.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Cold as Ice, go HERE.

Book Review: Once Upon a Summertime

2015-08-29T14:23:00.001-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Once Upon a Summertime Revell (June 2, 2015) by Melody Carlson

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

My husband Chris and I live in a cabin-style home next to the National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Mountain area of the Pacific Northwest. Our two grown sons and granddaughter live nearby and we try to see them as often as we can. We also have two 're-homed' pets to make life more interesting-our yellow Labrador retriever Audrey and a Maine coon cat named Harry.

My writing studio is in a separate building next to our courtyard (a garden area that's off limits to the voracious deer). The window behind my desk looks out into the Ponderosa pine forest, where I see deer, squirrels, rabbits, and an occasional raccoon. The other windows in my office overlook the courtyard which is frequented by numerous hummingbirds in the summertime-one August evening we counted nearly fifty of the little hummers.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Managing the Value Lodge in her hometown was not what Anna Gordon had in mind when she set out in the hospitality industry. But it's a safe choice for a woman whose childhood was anything but stable. Out of the blue, she gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to reinvent herself by moving to New York City, where she hopes for a management position at a stylish new boutique hotel. The big city is full of surprises--not the least of which is Sean O'Neil. Her childhood crush has applied for the very same position!

Sweet, romantic, and endlessly entertaining, this romp through the storied streets of New York City will enchant readers. Melody Carlson has created characters so charming that readers will long to meet them in the lobby of the stunning Rothsberg Hotel.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Once Upon a Summertime, go HERE.

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. Anna seemed like such a real character. I only wished the story had not ended so fast. I would have loved to read the next chapter of Anna's life.

Book Review- Hope Harbor

2015-08-14T03:58:00.000-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Hope Harbor Revell (July 7, 2015) by Irene Hannon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Irene Hannon is a bestselling, award-winning author who took the publishing world by storm at the tender age of 10 with a sparkling piece of fiction that received national attention.

Okay…maybe that’s a slight exaggeration. But she was one of the honorees in a complete-the-story contest conducted by a national children’s magazine. And she likes to think of that as her “official” fiction-writing debut!

Since then, she has written more than 45 romantic suspense and contemporary romance/women’s fiction novels. She is a seven-time finalist and three-time winner of the RITA award—the “Oscar” of romantic fiction—and a member of Romance Writers of America Hall of Fame. Her books have also won a Daphne du Maurier award, a Carol award, three HOLT Medallions, a National Readers’ Choice award, a Retailers Choice award, two Booksellers’ Best awards and two Reviewers’ Choice awards from RT Book Reviews magazine. One of her novels was also named by Booklist as a top 10 inspirational fiction books of 2011. In addition, she is a two-time Christy award finalist.

Irene, who holds a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in journalism, juggled two careers for many years until she gave up her executive corporate communications position with a Fortune 500 company to write full. She is happy to say she has no regrets!

In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, gardening and singing. A trained vocalist, she has sung the leading role in numerous musicals, including “South Pacific,” “Brigadoon,” “Oklahoma” “The King and I” and “Anything Goes.” She is also a soloist at her church.

When not otherwise occupied, Irene and her husband enjoy traveling, Saturday mornings at their favorite coffee shop and spending time with family. They make their home in Missouri.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Tracy Campbell never wanted to leave Hope Harbor, Oregon, or the idyllic three-generation cranberry farm where she grew up. But life--and love--altered her plans. When tragedy strikes and changes her plans yet again, she finds herself back in her hometown with a floundering farm to run and a heartbreaking secret. Romance is not on her agenda. Nor is it on Michael Hunter's. The visitor from Chicago has daunting secrets of his own. But when Tracy recruits him to help save a struggling charitable organization, the winds of change begin to sweep through Hope Harbor, bringing healing, hope, and love to countless lives--including their own.

Fan favorite Irene Hannon brings a whole new cast of characters to life in a charming Oregon seaside village. Emotional and heartwarming, this story invites readers to come home to Hope Harbor, where love and hope bloom--and hearts heal.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Hope Harbor, go HERE.

My Thoughts: This was a nice read. I really felt like I got to know the people of Hope Harbor. It was easy to relate to the main characters.

Book Review: Devotion

2015-02-09T19:14:00.000-08:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Devotion Harbourlight Books (September 19, 2012) by Marianne Evans

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the author:
My career began at Kensington Publishing, then Wild Rose Press released what will likely be my last secular novel, With This Kiss. This book is very dear to my heart, because, in a way, it memorializes the life of my grandmother, Rachel Alfano. She was a feisty, loving Italian. Back in the day, folks came to her deli in East Rutherford "from the City" (New York, of course!) to get her pepperoni, or purchase her hand-made sausage and pastas. Life and times at 82 Mozart Street are engraved upon my heart, and precious to me. What better place to set a romance?

Now, I'm called to write 'Faith-affirming fiction' (TM). Christian inspirational romance, and Christian themed fiction, is something that both as a reader, and writer, I feel called upon by God to enjoy and create.

This segment of my journey began when I was lucky enough to win a writing contest sponsored by White Rose Publishing that led to the publication of my Christian inspy debut, Hearts Crossing. This humble, heart-felt novella went on to become a series...and an Amazon best seller! A Face in the Clouds, a short story spin-off of Woodland, is also part of my 'best seller' portfolio. What a blessing!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Christian Music agent Kellen Rossiter has everything he ever wanted: A-list clients from coast to coast, a loving wife who honors and respects him, and a faith life that’s never wavered—until now. Juliet Rossiter has the perfect life: a rewarding schedule serving the underprivileged, a husband who loves her as Christ loved the church, and a blessed future as a mother—at least that's what she thinks.

For Better or Worse

But what happens when their rock-solid marriage begins to crumble under the weight of an unexpected and powerful temptation? How does love survive when its foundation is shaken?

'Til Death Do Us Part

When human frailty and the allure of sin deal a harsh blow to their relationship, it will take more than love to mend the shattered trust and heartbreak. It will take a lifetime of devotion.

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

My Thoughts: This was a good book. It has a very real feel to it. A good read for sure.

Book Review- A stitch in Crime

2015-01-31T21:42:00.001-08:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Stitch in Crime Abingdon Press (January 20, 2015) by Cathy Elliot

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Cathy Elliott is a full-time writer who lives in northern California and whose cozy mysteries reflect her personal interests from playing her fiddle with friends to antique collecting and quilting. Besides collecting (too much) cool fabric, she also enjoys hunting for antiques and is several years into recovery from her eBay addiction. UPDATE: She backslid a while back, enticed to bid on a 1945 Singer Featherweight. (She won.) But now she’s back on the wagon. Except for the recent crazy quilt pillow purchase. She also leads music at church and enjoys time with her grandchildren.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Thea James has accepted an assignment as co-chairperson for Larkindale’s first quilt show extravaganza. Juggling the new assignment with running her antique business, she’s already feeling frayed when things start to unravel. Mary-Alice Wentworth, a much-loved town matriarch, respected quilt judge, and Thea’s dear friend, is covertly conked on the head during the kick-off Quilt Show Soiree, throwing suspicion on her guests. It also appears that a valuable diamond brooch has been stolen during the attack. The family is furious. But is it because of their mugged mother or the missing diamonds? When a renowned textile expert goes MIA and the famous Wentworth heritage quilt disappears, Larkindale’s reputation as a tourist haven is at risk. Thea attempts to piece the mystery together and save the town’s investment in the quilt show before Mary-Alice is attacked again . . . with far worse results.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Stitch in Crime, go HERE.

Book Review- Blind Trust

2015-01-31T21:41:00.003-08:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Blind Trust Revell (June 17, 2014) by Sandra Orchard

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sandra Orchard is a multi-award-winning author of mysteries and romantic suspense with Revell Publishing and Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense imprint. She is an active member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writers of America and The Word Guild (Canada). A mother of three grown children, she lives in Niagara, Canada with her real-life-hero husband and writes full time . . . when not doting on her young grandchildren.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Kate Adams had no idea she was carrying counterfeit money, and she can't believe that it came from her sweet neighbor. Or that it lands her in the middle of another one of Detective Tom Parker's investigations. Determined to prove her neighbor's innocence, Kate stumbles into a pit of intrigue that is far deeper than a two-bit counterfeit operation--and strikes too close to home for comfort. As family secrets come to light, her world--and her budding romance with Tom--begin to crumble. To Kate, it's clear that she won't be safe until she uncovers all of Port Aster's secrets. But is it too late for her and Tom?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Blind Trust, go HERE.

Book Review: Soul Painter

2015-01-14T20:37:00.001-08:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Soul Painter WhiteFire Publishing (March 15, 2014) by Cara Luecht

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A Word from the Author:
I never planned to be a writer. In fact, it took me a while to finish college. But I did, and here I am. And I now I can’t imagine not being a writer.

By day, I am an English Instructor at MATC, Marketing Manager for Degnan Design Builders, Inc., mother to four amazing children, wife to an eternally patient and supportive husband, and Worship Leader for Living Hope Fellowship in Sun Prairie, WI. In the evening, when I can squirrel away some quiet time, I read and write historical fiction.

I have a B.A. in English Lit. from UW Whitewater and an M.F.A in Creative Writing from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, NJ.

If you have a question for me, or if you are local and would like me to stop by your book club or writer’s group, please drop me a line via the “Ask the Author” tab. I always love the opportunity to meet with others who share my love of books.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Miriam paints the future…but can she change it?

Chicago – 1890

Miriam watches the people jostle their way below the windows of her warehouse home, never thinking to look up at her as she paints their faces. But Miriam's gift as an artist goes beyond a mere recording of what is: Miriam paints their futures. Only once was she wrong. One woman doesn't match the future Miriam saw. The bright girl was supposed to grow into a respected businesswoman. Instead, Ione disappears nightly into the shadowed alley next to the cathedral with the other prostitutes. Then one night, while walking through the city fog, Miriam finds Ione broken and beaten. Miriam is forced to open her home to the stranger whose face she knows so well and open her life to change she never could have foretold. Women are missing—some found floating in the river, some never seen again. The deacon from the cathedral is the first to help. Soon Miriam’s solicitor, Michael, aids her in rejoining society so they might uncover the evil at work in the corrupt city...and awakens feelings she had never considered before. Finally engaged with the world she has so long observed, finally stirred by love and friendship, Miriam realizes the responsibility of her gifting. No longer can she just paint what will be. She must now help Ione find the future she is meant to have...and find her own along with it.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Soul Painter, go HERE.

My Thoughts: Good story. I really enjoyed this book it is different from anything I have ever read, but I ended up really enjoying it.

Book Review- Masterpiece Marriage

2015-01-12T20:22:00.000-08:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Masterpiece Marriage Abingdon Press (December 16, 2014) by Gina Welborn

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

After Gina Welborn earned a Communications degee from an Oklahoma university, she thought the perfect career choice was working at a news radio station writing commercial copy, public service announcements, and news reports. A PSA writer, sadly, can only be so creative when describing ketchup and Geronimo’s grave. (No, she never combined those two elements in the same script, but now that she thinks about it, she wishes ... ) Thus Gina "retired" to focus on goal, motivation, and conflict within her family before discovering her niche in writing romances. A member of RWA and ACFW, Gina has four published novellas, including one in the ECPA-bestselling Mistletoe Memories, and three short historical romances: The Heiress's Courtship, The Marshal's Pursuit, and Masterpiece Marriage. A moderately obsessive fan of Community, Once Upon a Time, and Chopped, Gina lives in Oklahoma with her pastor husband, their five Okie-Hokie children, a box-lab, two rabbits, four guinea pigs, and a fancy Russian dwarf hamster named Tom Bob Deucalion. Gina is represented by the Steve Laube Agency.

ABOUT THE BOOK

After a flood damages the looms at Zenus Dane’s Philadelphia textile mill and the bank demands loan payment, Zenus turns to his aunt for help repurposing his textiles. Trouble is . . . his aunt has already been hired by the lovely yet secretive Englishwoman Mary Varrs. Eager to acquire his aunt’s quilt patterns, Zenus attends the summer Quilting Bee, a social event his aunt has uniquely designed with the secret purpose of finding Zenus a wife. However Zenus only has eyes for Mary, but Mary has no such desire for him. Though his aunt is determined to design a masterpiece marriage, both Zenus and Mary will have to overcome their stubborn ways. Can he realize that love requires stepping out of his routine? And will she recognize that following her heart doesn’t mean sacrificing her ambition?

If you would like to read the first chapter of Masterpiece Marriage, go HERE.

My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. It was written in a style that made the characters feel very real to me. A good read I defiantly recommend you check it out!

Book Review- Miracle in a Dry Season

2014-08-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Miracle in a Dry Season Bethany House Publishers (August 5, 2014) by Sarah Loudin Thomas

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sarah Loudin Thomas grew up on a 100-acre farm in French Creek, WV, the seventh generation to live there. Her Christian fiction is set in West Virginia and celebrates the people, the land, and the heritage of Appalachia. Her first novel, Miracle in a Dry Season, releases August 2014 through Bethany House. Sarah is represented by Wendy Lawton of Books & Such Literary Agency.

A graduate of Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC, Sarah once dreamed of being a marine scientist. But her love for words won out and she has spent much of her career in public relations and marketing. She currently oversees fundraising and communications for a Christian children’s home in Black Mountain, NC.

Sarah and her husband Jim live in the mountains of Western North Carolina with Thistle–the canine equivalent to a personal trainer pushing them to hike, run, and throw sticks. Sarah is active in her local church and enjoys cooking and–you guessed it–reading.

ABOUT THE BOOK

In a Drought, It's the Darkest Cloud

That Brings Hope

It's 1954 and Perla Long's arrival in the sleepy town of Wise, West Virginia, was supposed to go unnoticed. She just wants a quiet, safe place for her and her daughter, Sadie, where the mistakes of her past can stay hidden. But then drought comes to Wise, and Perla is pulled into the turmoil of a town desperately in need of a miracle.

Casewell Phillips has resigned himself to life as a bachelor. . .until he meets Perla. She's everything he's sought in a woman, but he can't get past the sense that she's hiding something. As the drought worsens, Perla's unique gift divides the town in two, bringing both gratitude and condemnation, and placing the pair in the middle of a storm of anger and forgiveness, fear and faith.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Miracle in a Dry Season, go HERE.

My Thoughts:
This was a nice read. I have not read many books set in the 1950's I really enjoyed reading a story from that time period.

Book Review- A Grand Design

2014-08-27T19:36:00.001-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Grand Design Abingdon Press (August 19, 2014) by Amber Stockton

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Words from the author:

Hi, I'm Amber, but my friends call me Tiff, short for Tiffany, my first name. I am in my mid-30's, married to the love of my life since July 2007, have a daughter and a son, and live in Colorado. Here, I am content to do what I love—write, speak, and offer virtual assistance.

Thanks to the gentle nudging of a fellow author -- Tracie Peterson -- in 2002, I joined the American Christian Fiction Writers and wouldn't be published today without them. For those of you who are also fiction writers looking for a wonderful support group, check them out! My very first book, Promises, Promises, sold in December 2006 and released in February 2008. I've been going steady ever since.

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Alyssa Denham, a single career woman, wins a fun getaway for two on Mackinac Island where her grandmother lives, she gives her carefree best friend a call. Together, they tour the old shops and hidden treasures of the quaint island while helping Alyssa’s grandmother piece together an heirloom quilt. Their quest gains them entrance into the homes of many longtime residents of the island, parts of the city that are otherwise off limits to tourists. As the quilt’s story takes shape, Alyssa gains amazing insight into her grandmother’s life . . . and attracts the attention of the handsome Scott Whitman, an island resident in charge of hotel transportation. Will memories of her past keep Alyssa from letting go? Or will the quest to piece together the heirloom quilt restore Alyssa’s fractured heart—and bring healing to her entire family?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Grand Design, go HERE.

My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book. It was an easy read that was easy to get lost in.

Product Review: Apothecary Extracts Tea Tree Oil

2014-08-13T19:38:00.005-07:00

Product Description:

One of the most versatile essential oils. Naturally fight Acne, Toenail Fungus, Lice, Yeast Infections, Skin Tags, Cold Sores, Dandruff, Ringworm, Fleas, Warts, Psoriasis, and More.  
Use to make your own Shampoo, Lotion, Soap, Face Cleaner, Body Wash, and Toothpaste.  

Stop polluting your home and make all natural Household Cleaners, Detergents, Shower Sprays, Bathroom Disinfectants, and Kitchen Sprays.  

Every large 4 ounce bottle comes with a FREE 100 PAGE GUIDE. We provide you with all the ways to use tea tree oil to improve your life, and replace harmful cleaners around the house.

Many essential oils are diluted to cut costs. We insist on the absolute best quality. We Have the Tests to Prove Our Tea Tree Oil's Purity and Potency.

My Thoughts:
I started tusing tea tree oil about a year ago. I found out it helped keep the lice away and several people we were close with were dealing with lice. We just put a few drops into the shampoo to detract the lice. When I knew we were going to really be in close quarters with people inffected I also took a cotton swab and added oil to our hair lines.
When our apothecary tea tree oil arrived I was impressed by it's size it much larger then the bottle I had bought from the drug store last year. It also seemed to have a stronger scent, which I took as a good sign of its quality. I liked the way the hole at the top is a little bigger then most I was able to dip my cotton swab in to get some oil. (Make sure if you do this to only use clean swaps no double dipping!) I found a new use for my tea tree oil last week: poison ivy! While weeding a flower bed I apparently rolled in the poison ivy and got a large rash down the side of my face. Oh the itching!! Several times I applied some tea tree oil this gave it immediate relief from the itching and I feel like it helped it heal faster. This is a great product if you don't have #teatreeoil in your medicine cabinet I strongly recommend you consider buying this product.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Book Review-- A Heart to Heal

2014-08-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Heart to Heal Love Inspired (July 15, 2014) by Allie Pleiter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and nonfiction. An avid knitter, harp player and non-reformed chocoholic, she spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools and finding new ways to avoid housework. Allie grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in speech from Northwestern University and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The "dare from a friend" to begin writing eight years ago has blossomed into a career that includes numerous public speaking engagements, two books on parenting; Becoming a Chief Home Officer and Facing Every Mom's Fears and now novels for Steeple Hill Books. She is the mother of two children and, most recently, a Havanese dog named Bella.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Courage To Hope.

Guidance counselor Heather Browning is desperate. She needs a mentor to help Simon, a disabled student who is struggling at Gordon Falls High School. Unfortunately, hotshot Max Jones is her only option. Confrontational and cavalier, Max uses his flashy persona to hide the bitterness he's felt since his life-changing accident. Perpetually cautious, Heather finds Max's bad-boy bravado as intriguing as it is infuriating. But as Heather and Max work together to build Simon's self-confidence, they begin to trust each other. Max has never been slow and careful with anything. Can he be gentle with Heather's heart?

Gordon Falls: Hearts ablaze in a small town.

If you'd like to read the first chapter of A Heart to Heal, go HERE.

My Thoughts: I loved this book!! It is one in a series, and even though it read fine as a stand alone book I am can not wait to get my hands on the other gooks to read the other stories of the people of Gordan Falls. The way the characters found healing in helping each other really made for a sweet sweet story!

Book Review: In the Field of Grace

2014-07-30T20:32:00.000-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing In The Field of Grace River North; New Edition edition (July 1, 2014) by Tessa Afshar

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

TESSA AFSHAR was voted "New Author of the Year" by the Family Fiction sponsored Reader's Choice Award 2011 for her novel Pearl in the Sand. She was born in Iran, and lived there for the first fourteen years of her life. She moved to England where she survived boarding school for girls and fell in love with Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte, before moving to the United States permanently. Her conversion to Christianity in her twenties changed the course of her life forever. Tessa holds an MDiv from Yale University where she served as co-chair of the Evangelical Fellowship at the Divinity School. She has spent the last thirteen years in full-time Christian work.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Destitute, grief-stricken, and unwanted by the people of God, Ruth arrives in Israel with nothing to recommend her but Naomi's, love. Her loftiest hope is to provide enough food to save Naomi and herself from starvation.

But God has other plans for her life. While everyone considers Ruth an outcast, she is astounded to find one of the most honored men of Judah showing her favor. Long since a widower and determined to stay that way, Boaz is irresistibly drawn to the foreign woman with the haunted eyes. He tells himself he is only being kind to his Cousin Naomi's chosen daughter when he goes out of his way to protect her from harm, but his heart knows better.

Based on the biblical account of Ruth, In the Field of Grace is the story of a love that ultimately changes the course of Israel's destiny and the future of the whole world.

If you would like to read the first chapter of In The Field of Grace, go HERE.

My Thoughts:
Last year I reviewed Harvest of Gold by Tessa Afshar and loved it. This book is no different. The author has a way of bringing the people of the bible to life. The story of Ruth has always been one of my favorites, and I loved having Ruth come to life in this story. This book is a must read!

Book Review: Firewall

2014-07-24T07:25:00.001-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Firewall Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (July 1, 2014) by DiAnn Mills

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

DiAnn Mills believes her readers should “Expect an Adventure.” She is a fiction writer who combines an adventuresome spirit with unforgettable characters to create action-packed novels. Her books have won many awards through American Christian Fiction Writers, and she is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader’s Choice award for 2005, 2007, and 2010. She was a Christy Award finalist in 2008 and a Christy winner in 2010.

DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, and is the Craftsman Mentor for the Christian Writer’s Guild. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops.

DiAnn and her husband live in Houston, Texas. Visit her website or find her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/diannmills

ABOUT THE BOOK

After a whirlwind romance, Taryn Young is preparing to board a plane at Houston International Airport, bound for a dream honeymoon, when a bomb decimates the terminal. Injured but still alive, she awakens to discover her husband is missing and they’re both considered prime suspects in the attack. Further, the FBI is convinced her husband isn’t who he appears to be.

Agent Grayson Hall’s number-one priority is to catch those responsible for the day’s act of terror. All evidence is pointing to Taryn and her new husband. But his instinct tells him her pleas of innocence are genuine. Is her naiveté just for show, or could she truly be another victim of a master scheme, possibly linked to the software she recently developed for her company?

With both their lives and reputations on the line, and the media outcry for justice increasing with each passing minute, Taryn and Grayson have no choice but to trust one another . . . and pray they can uncover the truth before they become two more casualties.

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

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this book! It was an adventure that kept me on my toes. It is not the type of book I normally read, but it was a nice change of pace!

Product Review- Carcinia Cambogia Supreme

2014-07-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

When I saw an opportunity to review Garcinia Cambogia I was interested. I had heard all the hupla about it, and seen tons of ads online. The brand I am reviewing is from Life and Food. It is called Garcinia Cambogia Supreme. My biggest concern with taking #Garcinia was the safety of taking it. I did not want to get started taking something that would be recalled down the road like so many diet supplements. So I did some research I was glad to find it come from a plant that made me feel much better about trying it.

Product Discription:
180 Capsules. 80% HCA and 1400 Mg servings, compared to 1000 Mg servings of the leading brand.
This is our highest HCA concentration Garcinia Cambogia product. Completely THIRD PARTY tested, and verified for HCA standardization

Using only premium quality extracts containing hydroxycitric acid (HCA) produced from choice Indian and Asian Garcinia Cambogia fruit rind of the highest quality possible. Studies show HCA in Garcinia can help inhibit glucose absorption as well as promote a balanced, lighter mood by boosting Serotonin levels without the jitters.

NO SOY, NO ADDITIVES, NO STIMULANTS, PURE QUALITY
Our products are sourced and tested to make sure they are of the HIGHEST quality and bio-availability in the market. Absolutely NO fillers, NO soy, WHEAT, eggs, fish, stimulants or any additives.

This product is stimulant free and also promote a balanced, lighter mood by boosting Serotonin levels without giving you the jitters as some weight loss supplements do. Allergen-free, our product uses a vegetable capsule with no fillers or binders, mixing Garcinia Cambogia fruit rind with calcium and potassium for added absorption your body needs.

Made and manufactured in world class GMP certified facilities in the USA. This product is free of contaminants, fillers, binders, or toxins. Quality and safety are a primary focus for all Life & Food branded products.

HOW DOES IT BURN FAT?
HCA is the key component reduces glucose absorption there by leading to fat reduction for those with high glucose levels. We've formulated to optimal dosage helps suppress the appetite while burning fat. It has also shown to improve blood lipid leves, help reduce fate production, curb emotional eating and help improve mood by raising the "feel good" hormone serotonin. It is clinically proven to block the stress hormone cortisol, too. .

My Thoughts:
I have not been taking to Garcinia Cambogia Supreme long enough to have seen extreme results, but I am hopeful that as I continue to take it and improve my diet and exercising habits that I will see big results. I have noticed a decrease in appetite and energy level on the days I have taken it. Honestly at this point I am not sure if those are a result of the #Garcinia or a placebo effect from knowing it is suppose to have those results. I think only time will tell. I do give the product 5 stars and am excited to see what the future results will be.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Book Review- Shenandoah Dreams

2014-07-16T19:49:00.001-07:00

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Shenandoah Dreams OakTara Publishers (July 1, 2014) by Lisa Belcastro

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Lisa Belcastro lives with her family on Martha’s Vineyard. She loves chocolate, gardening, outdoor activities, cooking, laughing, reading, traveling, a healthy dose of adventure, and her cat Ben, who keeps her company while she spends hours working at the computer.

She was inspired to write Shenandoah Nights, the first book in the Winds of Change trilogy, while chaperoning two Tisbury School summer sails with her daughter, Kayla, aboard the schooner Shenandoah. The weeklong adventure, sans electricity, Game Boys, iPods and modern conveniences, kindled her imagination to dream of an altogether different voyage.

In addition to writing romance novels, Lisa currently pens the cuisine column for Vineyard Style magazine. She has worked as a staff and freelance reporter and photographer for The Chronicle of the Horse and as assistant editor at The Blue Ridge Leader. She has written articles for USA Today, Dressage (London), USA WEEKEND Magazine, The Blue Ridge Leader and Sidelines.

When she’s not at her desk, Lisa is living in paradise, volunteering at her daughter’s school, serving in her church community, planting and weeding her numerous gardens, trying to run a marathon a month, or walking the beach looking for sea glass.

ABOUT THE BOOK

What if she met the man of her dreams...in another century? Tisbury, Massachusetts, Martha s Vineyard. It s just a dream, Melissa Smith whispers as she stares into the intense eyes of a man dressed in Colonial clothes, as though stepping out of an American Revolution movie set. A school chaperone with Holmes Hole Elementary, she d boarded the old schooner Shenandoah for a weeklong educational sail. But they are not visiting Plimoth Plantation, the Boston Tea Party Museum, or the Concord Bridge reenactment. They re sailing the waters around the island of Martha s Vineyard. Yet, when she awakes in Cabin 8, the captain claims to be Isaiah Reed, who sailed the original Shenandoah in the eighteenth century. He cannot possibly be real, Melissa thinks. And traveling back in time is impossible. But days pass, and she s still in 1770. What if Isaiah, who is simply too handsome to be real, is real? What if the fire he ignites in her from barely a touch isn t in her imagination? Can a dream last for weeks on end? If so, how will she find her way home...to the twenty-first century? And can she bear to leave the one man who has captured her heart, when everything in her longs to stay? A Vineyard Romance Romance, history, adventure. Get swept into the exciting Winds of Change series.

If you liked to read the first chapter of Shenandoah Dreams, go HERE.

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this book. With the fantasy twist of going back in time it was not like the Christian fiction books I normally read.

How to find giveaways and linkys

2014-07-08T20:44:00.002-07:00

Lately I have been looking for new giveaways to enter as well as linkys to add my blog posts to. The other night I was searching using swagbucks to try and find some lists of blogs with giveaway linkys on them. (That is my swagbucks referral link if you are not already earning those gift cards it is time to get on the band wagon!!) I found this Linky Tools Directory. This has been very helpful to me in finding different type of linkys that are current. Anyways happy linky hunting! Does anyone else have some good tips on where to find blog linkys and giveaways?

2 Ingredient Play Dough

2014-07-02T15:39:00.000-07:00

I found a great play dough recipe at Simply Moms and Friends.

The original recipeI found calls for 1 cup corn starch to 1/2 cup cheap hair conditioner with a few drops of food coloring.

I used a pomegranate and grapeseed VO5 conditioner. It smelled so good. Since my conditioner was pink it gave my dough a pink hint of color, so I skipped the food coloring to make the whole project a little simpler.

As we measured out our corn starch and conditioners I took the opportunity to discuss a whole and a half. When I first started mixed I got scared I had a gooey mess. So added some extra corn starch till I got a consistency we liked. I think if I had just kept mixing it at first I would have eventually gotten a nice fluffy consistency. I kept it a little on the dry crumbly side, DD was using the dough with some cars to drive through. I think our measurements were closer to 1 cup corn starch to 1/4 cup conditioner. DD had a ball playing with her cars in it. She loved making tire tracks through it and squeeze it in her hands. She got some great fine motor time in with it.

Summertime garden foods

2014-06-26T14:29:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about summer is the summer foods! I love watermelon, corn on the cob, and tomatoes out of the garden. My big tomatoes have not turned red yet in my garden. I have gotten several cherry tomatoes. I stopped at a little vegetable stand on the way home from the grocery store in search of some good eating tomatoes. I was not disappointed I got several large tomatoes. Yum!

Anyone have some good summer veggie recipes?