Eccentric Eclectic Woman

EcoMom Daily Deal: Eco Cups on Sale - Today Only!

2012-02-01T13:18:00.000-08:00

These Eco Cups are eco-friendly and very pretty! I have the blue flower one and just bought the red flower one too. Regular price is $9.99. They are on sale today only for $5.99 at EcoMom! I love mine! They are ceramic with a silicone sleeve for protection for your hands while hot beverages are in them. So much better than paper disposable cups because you can save the environment while drinking the hot beverage of your choice from your favorite shop.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in taking part of this deal. I am a fan of EcoMom and thought I would share the savings. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post.

Baby Bella Maya Lacy Legging Gift Pack Review and Giveaway

2012-01-30T11:55:00.000-08:00

Baby Bella Maya has the perfect Valentine's gifts for both little girls and boys! They carry beautiful: baby carrier covers, baby gift sets, blankets, headbands, infant car seat covers, toddler car seat covers, lacy leggings, ruffled diaper covers, shoes and Tellurian Baby care products.

We got to try a 3 pack of their Lacy Leggings in 12-18 months. They came in the sweetest packaging that reminded me of a candy wrapper. They are the perfect gift for Valentine's Day and that is why I had to include them in my Valentine's Amore Gift Guide! My littlest, Zari, looks so adorable in these. They add just the right amount of lace to an ensemble. Whether your little girl likes to dress up in frilly things or just add a touch of femininity to her outfit the Baby Bella Maya Lacy Leggings are just the ticket. The only downsides to these: if you have Velcro on your child's diapers it might take hold of the lace, as I unfortunately found out, (If it does this just be very careful to remove it so that it doesn't cause damage.) and these leggings should only be hand washed and air dried flat. I love dressing my girls in dresses and skirts! I also love leggings to pair with them. The Baby Bella Maya Lacy Leggings are perfect because they come in 3 different colors: pink, white and black. They match so many dresses and skirts the girls have already. Not only that but they look great with both casual and dressy outfits. They are calf length and footless. They are also comfortable and so much softer than that starchy scratchy lace since they are made with 80% Nylon and 20% Spandex. These are wonderful for any occasion and so very perfect for dressing your little girl up for Valentine's Day!

BUY IT:
Lacy Leggings are available for purchase at $27.99 per 3 pack on Baby Bella Maya. You can also purchase them separately for $10. Available in size 6-12 months, 12-18 months, and 18-24 months.

WIN IT:
Lynn at Baby Bella Maya is generously giving one lucky reader a chance to win a 3 pack of Lacy Leggings in the size of your choice.

Mandatory:
Go to the Baby Bella Maya website and tell me what else you really love.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Baby Bella Maya in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon: @BabyBellaMaya #WIN #Giveaway 3 Pack of Lacy Leggings http://bit.ly/zYdiO1 (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like Baby Bella Maya on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Follow Baby Bella Maya on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday February 24, 2012 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. ONLY!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to Baby Bella Maya for sending me product for free to review and one to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Free Valentine's Cards from Tiny Prints (Expires 1/25)

2012-01-20T10:08:00.000-08:00

I just got a FREE Valentine card from Tiny Prints for my sweetheart and my children and you can too! Send them to yourself and you get them FREE!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in taking part of this deal. I am a fan of Tiny Prints and thought I would share the savings. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post.

Bamboobies Review and Giveaway

2012-01-19T12:49:00.000-08:00

I received a pair of the washable and reusable Bamboobies regular nursing pads and a pair of their overnights. These are amazing! I was astonished at how incredibly soft they feel. They remind me of the softest cashmere sweater or soft pussy willows! In addition to how comfortable these are to wear they are also very absorbent and wick away from the skin leaving no leaks behind. Since they are made of organic, sustainable fabrics, Bamboobies are a great eco-friendly and economical alternative to disposable pads.

The Bamboobies regular nursing pads are a unique heart shape which hugs the breast, protecting it and your clothing from breast milk leakage. Since they contour to the shape of your breast they also don't show outlines or wrinkles through your clothing. The heart shape is the best part of these and I think they would be wonderful gifts for Valentine's for a nursing mom or nursing mom to be!! That is why I have placed them in my Amore Valentine's Day Gift Guide.

The overnights are also super soft but larger and round for complete coverage when you need the maximum protection from leaks. I found these to be great while sleeping. They catch all the leaks and you will never wake up in the middle of the night in a puddle of breast milk again!

The fabrics these nursing pads are made of are fabulous! Their bamboo fabrics are certified organic. Bamboo is not cold when wet like cotton is. Organic cotton and bamboo are blended to create the soft velour of the regular bamboobies and the fleece on the outside of the overnights. Soy is more breathable, absorbent and durable than cotton and is naturally anti-microbial and UV protective. It is softer than cotton and longer-lasting. It dries quickly, doesn’t wrinkle as easily and feels luxurious. Hemp is naturally organic and 4 times more absorbent than cotton. It is also known for its antimildew and antimicrobial properties. Hemp and organic cotton blends are found in the inner core of all of their bamboobies products. Bamboobies goes 'Beyond Organic' to ensure that the fibers are not treated with toxic chemicals and that only water-based dyes are used.

Click on the picture above to compare.

BUY IT:

2 Pair Regular or Overnight Bamboobies: MSRP: $16.99

Multi Pack: 1 Pair Overnights + 3 Pair Regulars in a Lingerie Bag: MSRP: $29.99

Value Pack - 6 Pair Regular Bamboobies: MSRP: $39.99

They also carry:

1 Pair Bamboob ease Soothing Flax Therapy Pillows: MSRP: $24.99

Bamboobies Cute Little Nursing Cover: MSRP: $44.00

Use FINA20 for 20% off at checkout at www.buybamboobies.com!

WIN IT:
Becky at Bamboobies is generously giving one lucky reader a chance to win a $16.99 credit which is enough to buy a 2 pair pack of either the Regular or Overnight Bamboobies or the winner can put it towards any other Bamboobies product(s) on their site.

Mandatory:
Go to the Bamboobies website and tell me which product(s) you would pick if you won.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Bamboobies in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon: @bamboobies #WIN #Giveaway Bamboobies $16.99 credit for Bamboo Velour Nursing Pads http://bit.ly/yYxTzc (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like Bamboobies on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Follow Bamboobies on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday February 10, 2012 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. AND Canada ONLY!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to Bamboobies for sending me products for free and a credit to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Smart Mom Red Heart Teething Bling Review and Giveaway

2012-01-18T13:47:00.000-08:00

It is coming up on Valentine's Day and I think the perfect gift for a mom with a little one that is teething is a Red Heart Teething Bling pendant necklace from Smart Mom Jewelry. This is why I have included it in my Amore Valentine's Gift Guide.

These necklaces are perfect for wearing around little ones because they are safe to chew on and won't harm wearer or teether. The pendants have a clasp that when tugged on will pop open so it won't choke the wearer and it also doesn't break the clasp. Teething Bling is made from plastic that is food-safe, non-toxic, phthalate, BPA, latex, lead, and PVC free. They are also dishwasher-friendly.

The Red Heart Teething Bling pendant necklace is so stylish for Valentine's Day. I love it! The color of it is more a hot pink or bright magenta than a true red, but I thought it was beautiful. They have other heart shaped pendants listed in their products under their Tween Bling line if you like camouflage or jungle prints. I would love to see a heart shaped pendant in a candy apple red shimmer and raspberry shimmer color too!

BUY IT:
Red Heart Pendants will be available to purchase at Smart Mom the week before Valentine's. All of the Smart Mom Jewelry would be a wonderful gift this Valentine's Day for a mom to a small one or a mother to be. Teething/Teen Bling Pendants cost $15.99-$23.99, Bangles cost $12.99 individually. You can even design your own gift set of either 3 bangles ($28.75) of your choice or one pendant and two bangles ($34.00) of your choice.

WIN IT:
Amy at Smart Mom is giving one lucky reader a chance to win a Red Heart Pendant.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Teething Bling from Smart Mom Jewelry website and tell me what other item you love.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Teething Bling from Smart Mom Jewelry in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon: @TeethingBling #WIN A Smart Mom Teething Bling Red Heart Pendant #Giveaway #valentines http://bit.ly/vYZYt2 (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like Teething Bling on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Follow Teething Bling on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday February 10, 2012 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to Smart Mom, LLC for sending me a Red Heart Pendant for my Valentine's Amore Gift Guide 2012 for free, and another to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Uncommon Goods and A Toy Garden Giveaway Winners

2012-01-14T10:38:00.000-08:00

The winner of the UncommonGoods $50 Gift Card is #28 collyn23! collyn23 said they would love the REMOTE CONTROL T-REX KIT.

The winner of the A Toy Garden Multicolored Beeswax Candle Making Kit is #32 lmurley2000! lmurley2000 said that the the cherry apple slices looks good to them.

Congrats again to all the winners! I will contact each winner by email. If you did not have your email posted please post it here so I can email you! Thanks to all those who participated and don't forget to enter in my contests/giveaways that are going on now! I will also be adding more posts and giveaways soon so stay tuned!

*All winners are chosen by my True Random Number Generator.

Different Dream Parenting AND A Different Dream for My Child by Jolene Philo FWCT Book Review

2012-01-06T13:41:00.000-08:00

It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books. A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured. The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between! Enjoy your free peek into the book!

You never know when I might play a wild card on you!

Today's Wild Card author is:

Jolene Philo

and the book:

Different Dream Parenting

Discovery House Publishers (November 1, 2011)

A Different Dream for My Child

Discovery House Publishers (August 1, 2009)

***Special thanks to Susan Otis, Creative Resources, Inc. for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jolene Philo has been a teacher for 25 years and has published numerous articles on parenting a special needs child and preparing children for a hospital stay. She is the author of Different Dream Parenting and Different Dream Parenting: A Practical Guide to Raising a Child with Special Needs and a regular contributor to a regional monthly women’s magazine, has spoken to MOPS groups, and is a commentator for Iowa Public Radio’s “Iowa Voices.” She and her husband have two children and live in Boone, Iowa.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTIONS:

Different Dream Parenting: Parents of a special needs child will benefit by Jolene Philo's handbook of resources, inspiration and tested wisdom. Practical strategies and spiritual reflections are balanced with resources for aid and information. From becoming an effective advocate for your child, dealing with hospitalization, to family concerns and long-term care, Philo presents wisdom from voices of experience. Hope-giving help, resources and direction are clearly provided for parents of a child with a medical condition, behavioral or educational concerns.

Product Details for Different Dream Parenting:
List Price: $12.99
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Discovery House Publishers (November 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1572934670
ISBN-13: 978-1572934672

A Different Dream for My Child: Hope and encouragement for the parents and caregivers of critically ill children comes in an inspirational devotional package. Jolene Philo shares personal accounts from her own experiences with a seriously ill newborn son. Interwoven are the stories of how other parents have found peace and hope, how they have dealt with hospitalization, private pain, grief, guilt and loneliness, and even the death of a child. Targeted scripture, simple prayers and questions for reflection provide a valuable spirit

Product Details for A Different Dream for My Child:

List Price: $10.99

Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Discovery House Publishers (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1572933070
ISBN-13: 978-1572933071

AND NOW...Excerpts from both books:

Different Dream Parenting Excerpt:

I Didn’t Sign Up for This,
God!

Have
you ever had one of those dreams where
you can’t move? The car is racing toward the edge of a cliff and you can’t lift
your foot to press the brake pedal. An attacker is breaking down the door to
your house and you can’t raise your arm to dial 911. Your child is about to run
in front of a truck and you can’t open your mouth to scream.

My
bad dream became a reality in 1982. My husband and I stood beside our son’s
isolette in the neonatal intensive care unit. An IV needle pierced Allen’s tiny
arm, and angry red scars crisscrossed his chest. One end of his feeding tube
hung on a pole beside his IV bag. The other end rose from the soft skin of his
tummy. Pain etched his wide forehead and tugged at the corners of his perfect
rosebud mouth.

More
than anything, I wanted to reach out and take his hurt away. But I was trapped
in a bad dream. Immobilized. Inadequate. Helpless. Though God had assigned me
to love and care for this beautiful child, I could do nothing to minimize his
pain. My thoughts were an inward scream. This isn’t what I signed up to do,
God! I don’t want to be a helpless onlooker. I want to parent my child. How can
I care for him? What can I do?

As
the parent of a child with special needs, you’ve probably experienced the same
sense of helplessness. Whether your child is critically or chronically ill,
mentally or physically impaired, develop- mentally or behaviorally challenged,
you want to do something. You want to ease your child’s pain, but you don’t
know how. You want to help your child realize his or her full potential, but
you don’t know where to begin. You want to ask God about your child’s
suffering, but you don’t want to be condemned for questioning His wisdom. You
want to believe God is with you, but you don’t know how to find Him.

You’re
stuck in a bad dream. You can’t move. You can’t speak. You want someone to
shake you awake and tell you everything will be okay. Instead, you wake up and
must become the parent you never expected to be. You doubt that you’re up to
the task. You’re worried about your child’s future. And you’re wondering, Does
anyone understand what I’m experiencing?

The
answer is yes, many parents understand your situation. In the United States,

• 10–15 percent of newborns, or 431,000
annually, spend time in neonatal intensive care according to the March of
Dimes.

• 12 percent of children between ages 1
and 17 had medical conditions serious enough to require hospitalization between
2004 and 2006, the most recent years for which statistics are available at the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• 13.6 percent of students between ages 6
and 21 were enrolled in some kind of special needs program according to the
National Center for Educational Statistics. That’s 706,000 of our country’s
school-aged children.

Lots
of kids mean lots of parents, dads and moms who are valuable sources of
information and advice. In this book, dozens of them share with you the wisdom
they gained while parenting kids with special needs.

Support
can also come from the surprising number of professionals who work with
families of kids with special needs. These professionals—and the resources
they’ve created—are available at hospitals, medical facilities, government
agencies, private organizations, businesses, schools, churches, and more.

This
book brings you advice from professionals around the country and provides
information about national organizations and resources. It also gives tips
about where to start searching for state and local resources. More often than
not, your problem won’t be a lack of resources, but a lack of awareness of them
or inability to access them.

Different Dream Parenting contains six sections: Diagnosis, Hospital Life,
Juggling Two Worlds, Long-Term Care Conditions, Losing a Child, and Raising a
Survivor. Each section is divided into four chapters. Three chapters address
practical issues. The last chapter in each section addresses spiritual
concerns.

Parents
of kids with special needs often wrestle with prickly spiritual questions. I sure
did. Sometimes I still do. So do all the parents interviewed in this book, and
most of the professionals, too. Every day, we continue to ask questions about
our kids’ lives and futures. Gradually, we learn more about how to trust God’s
timing and wait for His answers.

As
you read this book, please ask your faith questions. Read about how parents and
professionals learned to ask questions, wait, and listen. Consider the answers
they have discerned and their suggestions about how to find comfort and courage
in God’s Word. When you are ready, try out their ideas about how to pray and
use Scripture to hear God’s answers to your hard questions. The thirty-day
prayer guides in appendix A are designed to help you engage in conversation
with Him.

But
even with prayer guides and Scripture to guide you, I know how hard it can be
to trust the God who is allowing your child to suffer. So I won’t condemn you
for asking prickly questions. Instead, I’ll encourage you, cry with you, and
support you when your faith grows weak. When you can’t hang on a minute longer,
I’ll hold you close until your strength and your faith return.

I
hope this book helps you break out of your bad dream, wake up, and move forward
with joy and confidence. I pray that the stories of parents and professionals
in this book will give you hope and strength.

Most of all, I hope you
discover the truth God has revealed to me and many other parents. Raising a
child with special needs isn’t a bad dream. It’s just a different dream. And
surprisingly, a different dream can be the best dream of all.

Taken from Different Dream Parenting, © 2011
by Jolene Philo. Used by permission of Discovery House Publishers, Box
3566, Grand Rapids, MI 49501. All rights reserved

A Different Dream for My Child Excerpt:

Children Are a Gift from the Lord, Period

Don’t you see that children are God’s best gift?

The fruit of the womb his generous legacy?

Psalm 127:3

From the moment Hiram and I learned of Allen’s condition, we knew he
had a good chance of living a relatively normal life. And though his first five
years were hospital

heavy, that prognosis
proved true. He did well in school and participated in extra-curricular
activities. Now an adult, he’s out on his own.

Not every child’s
future is so rosy. Many parents of kids who survive an initial health crisis
know their lives, and their children’s lives, will be quite different from what
they once expected. If your child is one of those kids, you will grapple with
the same issue Bruce and Peggy faced when their second child was a baby.

Their daughter Lacey,
born in 1984, has the mental ability of a four or five–month–old infant. Her
mental and physical disabilities weren’t immediately obvious to her doctor or
her parents, though by the time her daughter was three months old, Peggy knew
something was wrong.

Throughout the first
year of Lacey’s life, her limitations became more noticeable. Her parents’
lives changed when they decided to keep Lacey in their home as long as they
could. They understand that other parents who place severely disabled children
in a care facility have made the right choice in their personal situation.
“It’s not like one’s right and one’s wrong,” Peggy says.

“You have to do what
God gives you peace about,” Bruce adds. The decision to care for Lacey in their
home gave them peace. To accommodate their new lifestyle, Bruce changed
employers. “I used to have a job where I traveled and was gone all the time. We
knew when Lacey was a year old that I was going to have to be home a lot more.”

Early on, many
well-meaning people acted like Lacey was a burden her family had to bear,
especially for Peggy, whose life revolved around caring for their daughter.
Once in a while, Peggy viewed her daughter in the same way. She began to
question God. “Children are meant to be a gift from the Lord, not a burden,
aren’t they? So why is Lacey a burden?”

Deep down, Peggy knew
something was wrong with her thinking. One day she sensed God telling her to
think about what the Bible says about kids: Children are a gift from the Lord.
The light bulb went on, and she understood that the verse wasn’t just about the
“perfect children,” the darling, whole and healthy, look-at-me children. “He
doesn’t put any clause or condition on this statement. It’s just plain,
‘Children are a gift from the Lord.’”

In that moment, Peggy
realized she’d been asking the wrong question. The question wasn’t whether
Lacey was a gift or a burden. God said children are always a gift. Instead, He
showed her the right questions to ask: How are you going to take care of this
gift? How are you going to show the world that Lacey is a gift from the Lord?
Those questions changed Peggy’s outlook about caring for her daughter. Every
day, she tells herself, “I better act like this is a gift.” Over the years, she’s
discovered that when she acts like her daughter is a gift, she thinks of her as
a gift.

After more than two
decades of caring for her daughter, Peggy wants to pass on this piece of advice
to parents of special needs kids: No matter what your child’s level of need is
— able to lead a normal life, in need of total care, or somewhere in between —
you treat your child as a gift, you’ll think of your child as a gift. “This
child is a gift from the Lord, period,” Peggy says. “Start with that foundation
and move on from there.”

Father, forgive me for viewing my child
as a burden. Teach me to act like my child is a gift, even during difficult
times, so I will think of this child as a gift. Help those around me see my
child is a gift, too.

Do I consider my child
a gift from God? Do I treat my child like a gift? How do I show other people
that my child is a gift?

________________________________

Taken
from A Different Dream for My Child, © 2009 by Jolene Philo. Used by
permission of Discovery House Publishers, Box 3566, Grand Rapids MI 4950l. All
rights reserved.

A Life Restored (Prescott Pioneers 3) by Karen Baney FWCT Book Review

2012-01-02T13:55:00.000-08:00

Today's Wild Card author is:

Karen Baney

and the book:

A Life Restored (Prescott Pioneers 3)

Publisher: Karen Baney (August 28, 2011)

***Special thanks to Karen Baney for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Karen Baney, in addition to writing Christian historical fiction and contemporary novels, works as a Software Engineer. Her faith plays an important role both in her life and in her writing. Karen and her husband make their home in Gilbert, Arizona, with their two dogs. She also holds a Masters of Business Administration from Arizona State University.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Making mistakes is a part of life…

Social butterfly, Caroline Larson, longs for adventure. Since her best friend left Texas, she grows dissatisfied with her life. A little lie to her parents sends her on the journey of her life. Stranded in the Arizona desert, far from her final destination, she must rely on a stranger who gets under her skin.

Thomas Anderson has always struggled with making good decisions. A twist of fate, or Providence, leads him to Arizona to take a job as an express rider. Dealing with the ghosts of his past threatens to overshadow his future—until he meets a woman needing his help. Sparks fly as she grates on his nerves.

As they both struggle to move beyond their past mistakes, will they find their lives restored?

Product Details:

List Price: $14.99

Paperback: 330 pages

Publisher: Karen Baney (August 28, 2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 098354865X

ISBN-13: 978-0983548652

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Wickenburg, Arizona Territory

August 19, 1865

The stagecoach bounced over the rough terrain. Caroline Larson tried not to slide into the man sitting next to her on the hard, bare wood seat. The least they could have done was put some upholstering on the thing. Then she would not be jostled so much from the side against the window to the poor young man next to her.

Another jolt of the Celerity stagecoach shoved her into his side once again.

“Sorry,” she murmured, glancing at the young man.

“No harm, Miss.” A smirk played on his lips causing the jagged scar on his right cheek to wrinkle unattractively. She wondered how he got the scar. The hint of laughter in his voice indicated he was enjoying this.

Caroline stifled a snort of disgust as she turned to look out the opening with a small canvas cover secured to the top of the window frame. The dust billowing up from the front wheels obscured much of the view, filtering into the interior of the stage. The small town—if one could call it that—of Wickenburg faded behind them. The only good thing about facing the rear of the stage was that she did not have to endure a face full of dust with each breath.

The stage jerked violently, propelling the man across from her forward, landing awkwardly in her lap. She turned her shocked green eyes towards him, narrowing them slightly until the red of embarrassment tinged his cheeks. He offered profuse apologies as he tried to return to his designated seat.

She should have listened to Millie. She and her father had acted as chaperones, escorting Caroline west. Unfortunately, their travels ended in Wickenburg. Millie and her father assured her they would take her the rest of the way to Prescott by mid-September. But, she had come this far and did not want to wait another month or more before being reunited with her brother Adam and her best friend Julia.

As the stage crossed over a huge bump, sending Caroline airborne for a few seconds, her mind returned to her present circumstance. Despite Millie’s concern, she boarded the stage this morning headed for Prescott. Things were just fine. She could handle the inquisitive looks of these men.

Abruptly, the stage skidded to a halt, propelling Caroline into the arms of the man across from her. Her almost apology died on the tip of her tongue.

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.”

Rifle fire echoed in her ears. Her head snapped towards the window. The driver fell from his perch on the front of the stage. As she jerked forward, the young man with scar clasped his hand down on her arm. She turned her eyes toward him. He lifted a finger to his lips and shook his head. He pushed her back against the seat, out of the view of the window.

“What’d ya do that fer?” another voice sounded.

“I told him not to reach for his gun.”

Caroline froze. The stage was being robbed!

“Y’all come out slow like,” the first man shouted.

“Miss,” the man with the scar whispered. “Let me go first to make sure it’s safe for you.”

A lump formed in her throat. She watched as he exited the stage. Maybe she had been too quick to judge him earlier.

“How many more of you are in there?” the first robber’s voice asked.

“Just four more,” the man with the scar answered.

That was not true. There were four more men. And her. What was he doing?

“Come out nice and slow.”

The rest of the men did as instructed. Caroline hesitated in the shadows, wondering if the scar-faced man—now she wished she would have asked his name—was trying to protect her. Tapping her finger against her temple rapidly, she tried to figure a way out of this situation. Scanning the landscape offered no solutions. Nothing but vast open desert presented itself. There was no place to hide.

For the first time in her eighteen years, Caroline had no solution. No plan.

“Bart!” the first robber yelled. “Check out the stage. Make sure no one else is lurking around.”

She heard the distinct sound of a man dismounting a horse. Moments later, shuffling feet sounded just outside of the stagecoach door. Flattening herself into the shadows as much as possible, Caroline wished she had not worn her bright yellow dress this morning. Her dark green would serve much better to hide her now.

“Looksee here,” Bart said with a broken toothed smile. “Come here missy.”

He leaned in and caught hold of her foot.

“Unhand me,” she said before realizing she had destroyed any hope of hiding her presence from Bart’s boss.

As Bart tugged harder on her ankle, she slid off the seat, landing with a thud on the floor of the stage. Kicking his face with her other foot, she freed herself long enough to make a somewhat graceful exit. Bart’s beefy arms clamped around her shoulders as soon as her feet hit the ground. He shuffled her to the line of passengers.

Bart flung her toward the scarred man who helped her earlier. The force was so hard she lost her balance and landed at his feet with a whimper. When he knelt to help her up, the robber cocked his pistol, stopping him in mid-crouch. All she could see was the scar on the passenger’s face as she tried to control her breathing. It wasn’t as noticeable now as it had been before. For some reason, she found that comforting.

The air rushed from Robert Garrett’s lungs. In all his life he had never been this lucky. There was no mistaking those flashing green eyes. The young woman Bart just pulled from the stage was definitely Caroline Larson.

As his lackey, Bart, pushed her forward, she fell at one of the passenger’s feet. Robert cocked his gun, leveling it at the passenger.

“I think she can stand on her own,” he said, covering his momentary shock.

When the passenger made no further move to help her, Robert pointed his gun at Caroline. His sinister smile hid behind the red bandana covering his face. She straightened with that defiant look she always had etched haughtily on her face. He would relish wiping that expression away later. He had to finish the business at hand first.

He spoke with an exaggerated accent to further disguise his identity, not that Caroline would recognize his true identity if she saw his full face. “Now, I want y’all to empty your pockets of all yer valuables and place ‘em in the bag Bart has. We don’t want no trouble, so just do as yer told. Otherwise, I might decide to empty my pistol into this little gal.”

Robert plotted his next move, while Bart went down the line taking all the valuables from each of the passengers, including Caroline Larson. He hated her blasted brother, Adam, almost as much as he hated Will Colter. Almost. Patience. You’ll have your revenge soon enough.

A slow plan was always much better than a hurried one. In fact, robbing this stage had been a bit hurried—it’s how he ended up doing it himself, instead of hiring it out. It was a dangerous move to get his hands dirty. After this, he would distance himself from the execution of his plans. Too risky. But, if he hadn’t been here, he wouldn’t have seen Caroline and the ideas taking shape in his head would be a missed opportunity.

First things first. He had to finish this job then rendezvous with his other men. He would have his associate pay off Bart before taking the stage horses to La Paz to sell. He would instruct his associate to return to the stagecoach, where he would leave Caroline alive, and have his associate fetch her and take her to the small shack on the outskirts of his property. He’d let the men have fun with her, as long as they kept her alive. He needed her if he was going to ransom her for money.

Oh, Adam Larson wouldn’t have anywhere near enough funds to rescue her. That would be part of the fun. And it would be what would force Will Colter to get involved.

The best part was that no one would have any idea he was involved in any of this. He would clean up, shave, and change into his fine clothes after his meeting with his associate. Then he would head back into Wickenburg and spend the night at the hotel before heading out to Prescott tomorrow as the respectable Robert Garrett.

Inwardly, the swell of anticipation for the next phase of his revenge sent giddy shivers up and down his spine. He would come back despite all that Colter and Larson took from him and he would do it while destroying them.

When Bart stopped in front of her, Caroline realized she would need to part with her items as well. Slowly she unfastened the broach her mother gave her and let it slip into the bag. Then she emptied her reticule, thankful she had taken the time to discretely hide half of her money elsewhere on her person this morning.

Once the man had a full bag, he began dumping luggage from the back of the stage, littering things everywhere. He picked through her trunk, strewing her clothing on the dusty ground. Finding nothing of worth there, he went to the next trunk. After several minutes ticked by, he announced he was finished with his search.

Then the boss man dismounted his horse. He came straight towards her. With a small bandana in his hands, he shoved her over to one side of the stage.

“What are you doing?” the scarred man asked, making a move towards the robber.

The robber turned and shot him.

Caroline gasped as the man’s body fell limp in a pool of blood. As his face relaxed, the scar became almost invisible. A tear trickled down her cheek.

“Any more questions?” the robber asked. When no one moved, he added, “Good.”

He turned her back towards him, pushing her face into the side of the coach. She tried to struggle, but stopped when he pressed the barrel of his pistol against her neck. When she stilled, he yanked her hands behind her back and tied them together with the bandana. Then he shoved her to the ground.

“Stay,” he commanded. “And don’t give me no trouble.”

Her heart pounded loudly in her ears as she watched helplessly. He unhitched the team of four horses from the stagecoach. He barked another command to Bart, who then led the remaining four men to the other side of the stage.

At the first rifle shot, Caroline jumped. Looking through the undercarriage, she saw two of the men who sat across from her lying in a heap on the ground. Blood soaked their clothing and the odd angle of their bodies suggested they died from the same shot. Two more rapid rapports of a pistol were followed by the harsh thud of another man hitting the ground.

Tears streamed down her face as she heard the pleas of the last man. The echo of a rifle cut off his cries. Glancing over to the other side of the coach, she saw his body land on the others.

Quickly, she looked away. Fear squeezed her heart. She would be next.

Raising her knees to her chest, she buried her face in the folds of her skirt, as well as she could with her hands still tied behind her back. Lord, help. I shouldn’t have lied to papa. But, I need you. I don’t want to die.

The sound of men mounting their horses brought her eyes up.

“Boss, ain’t ya fergetting something?” Bart asked.

The robber turned dark eyes on her. “Naw. I ain’t about to kill a woman. Let her be.”

“We just gonna leave her?”

“Yeah. Desert will kill her soon ‘nough.”

Those were the last words she heard before the robber’s loud “Yaw” forced the unhitched stage horses into motion between him and Bart.

Caroline stared after their dust cloud for what seemed like hours, still stunned that she had come out of the ordeal unscathed.

When she was certain they were gone, she stood, arms still tied behind her back. Looking around, she found a rough metal edge to the harness system on the front of the stage. Kneeling awkwardly, she rubbed the bandana against the metal until her hands were free.

Flexing her fingers in front of her, she stopped short at the blood on them. Reaching down to her petticoat, she ripped off a strip and wrapped her cut left hand.

Her stomach revolted at the thought of what she must do next. Taking a few deep breaths, she walked toward the scar-faced man. Crouching down beside him, she searched for any sign of life. There was none. She didn’t even get to thank him. She wiped her eyes on the sleeve of her dress.

Caroline proceeded to the other side of the stagecoach. Three of the men’s bodies were piled one on top of the other. She wasn’t strong enough to move the first to check on the other two, though she could see no evidence that any survived.

The last man lay prostrate nearby. As she approached, she thought she heard him groan. When she kneeled next to him, his body shook violently. She managed to turn him over just as the last spark of life slipped from his eyes.

Jumping to her feet, she staggered to the other side of the wagon. Sinking to her knees, she let the tears fall down her face. Her stomach roiled at all she witnessed. Crawling on her hands and knees she moved only a few feet before she lost the contents of her stomach.

Wiping the back of her hand across her mouth, she despaired. Was she going to die before ever reaching Prescott?

Then the guilt settled in. If only she had stayed in Texas and married Nathan Finley. She wouldn’t be in this fine mess.

Tips for Pregnant and/or Nursing Women with Colds or Flu

2012-01-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

The above picture is of me when I was pregnant with my daughter, Zari. My sister Melody who had her new baby girl December 29th of last year (this is her first pregnancy and child) asked me and her other friends on Facebook when she was pregnant to post any suggestions of what medicine or other remedies she could take that would be OK during pregnancy for cold/flu symptoms. I didn't even have to think about it. I have been pregnant and/or nursing most of my married life it seems. I have a lot of experience with pregnancy, childbirth and child rearing. It just comes naturally to me now. Here are my many tips I gave to her. I thought that I should share them with all of you too since many of you are mothers too.

1. Stay Hydrated: drink lots of herbal teas (especially ginger, echinacea, chamomile, and peppermint. Also, hot water with honey and lemon.) or other soothing hot beverages (only the ones safe for pregnancy though), eat soups, drink more water.

2. Get Enough Sleep and Rest: Prop yourself up if you have to so that you can breath in bed. Wrap around a large body pillow for comfort.

3. Get Fresh Air and Sunshine When Ever You Can: You need your daily dose of vitamin D from the sun and fresh air because it can get stuffy inside the house. Also exercise is still needed to keep you immune system healthy.

4. Eat Healthy Nourishing Meals/Foods: Eat foods with lots of garlic (if it doesn't cause problems) and vitamin C, eat and drink less sugar, add herbs and spices to your diet that fight growies (cardamom, cayenne, curry, cinnamon and cloves are effective bacteria fighters), eat a lot of green leafy raw veggies, eat yogurt because of the probiotics and drink cranberry juice (not juice cocktail!) especially if you are getting antibiotics.

5. Breath Again: use the Netti pot (make sure to disinfect it before and after every use), non medicated Saline Nasal Drops and Spray, Mentholated chest rub, steam and hydrotherapy (take a shower, hot bath, etc. Also, essential oils, such as tea tree, peppermint and eucalyptus are safe and effective to use with steam inhalations with a room vaporizer or humidifier.), Boogie Wipes.

6. Get Rid of Bad Bacteria and Keep The Germs Down: Saltwater gargle, Colloidal Silver (a few drops in the mouth or infected ear), the above herbs and spices in number 4, keep good hygiene and brush your teeth/tongue/gums regularly. Disinfect surface areas with a natural antibacterial like Seventh Generation or Method Sprays and wipes, ultra-violet light, isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, tea tree oil, or vinegar. Cough into your sleeve (the bend of your elbow) or a tissue not your hands. Don't stifle a cough and don't sniff the mucous back into your lungs. Sneezing, blowing your nose, and coughing are a must when trying to expel germs from the body. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer.

7. Take Some Medicine and Natural/Homeopathic Remedies if needed for symptoms: Make sure they are safe for pregnancy and nursing women. These come to mind: Tylenol/Acetaminophen, cough lozenges (esp. the kind with propolis or eucalyptus and lemon), Emergen-C, Airborne, Cold Eeze, Boiron.

8. Keep Taking Your Prenatals and Supplement: Prenatals are important. Do not stop taking them when you are sick. Also take some Echinacea angustofolia and zinc supplements if you are not getting them in your prenatal because they help with immune support.

9. Use Hot or Cold Packs: For aches and pains hot and cold packs work wonders. You can get herbal packs, rice packs, or hot water bottles that work without wasting electricity too.

10. Seek Medical/Homeopathic Advice/Attention: If all else fails and you still feel sick go to a medical/homeopathic professional. Your body might need some stronger medicine/remedies that can only be prescribed.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this blog post is, at best, of a general nature and cannot substitute for the advice of a medical professional (for instance, a qualified doctor/physician, nurse, pharmacist/chemist, and so on). I am not a medical professional, just a mom with a opinion. Even if a statement made about the medicine is accurate, it may not apply to you or your symptoms. I am only suggesting that you should try it for yourself and see if helps you. People are all different and outcomes could vary drastically.

2011 Year in Recap and New Year's Resolutions

2011-12-31T16:28:00.000-08:00

So as 2011 ends and 2012 begins I would like to share with you some of our family's highlights for 2011 and then make a few New Year's resolutions.

My son Jaedan started 2011 with a bang and joined his older brother in Cub Scouts. He made his first derby car and entered it in the pine wood derby race with style. Both Delbin and Jaedan had fun at day camp with the rest of the scout troops in the area and Delbin advanced to Boy Scouts.

I received a new sewing machine from my husband and a new to me sewing table with all the bells and whistles free from a church friend that needed more space in their home. We made new curtains for my living room and dining room with it and took down the old blinds that were looking fairly damaged from kids and pets. I also made a skirt for myself and some other things with it. I plan on sewing a whole lot more. I also got some new knitting looms and some yarn to learn knitting on.

When the weather turned good my husband and some church friends helped us put new shingles on the roof of our home and put a new skylight in above our kitchen. It took a few days to finish because of rain and we had to put tarps over our home to cover it so the roof wouldn't get damage in between fixes. With our cars, boat and trucks out front in various states of repair and a pile of shingles and old roofing on the side of our place we kinda looked very ghetto. I bet our neighbors were really glad when that project was done.

We received word from some really good friends of ours that have a farm at the edge of Rainier that the owner of a mini pony had abandoned it and wasn't making payments for it to be boarded there anymore. So since we love horses and ponies we took up the payments for it and have been feeding it and caring for him ever since. His name is Gizmo and he is a registered mini pony stallion. He has warmed up to us nicely and now that winter is here has fluffed all out like a pony puff ball, LOL! Have you seen the animated movie Despicable Me? Remember the clip where Agnes gets the unicorn toy from the carnival and says, "It's so fluffy!"...well that is what I feel like saying about our mini pony :)

My sister, Jennifer, returned from her LDS mission in Hawaii and came to visit us in May. We celebrated multiple birthdays and her return at the zoo. It was Zari's first time and when we went back to the zoo in October to celebrate Zari's first birthday Zari was even more thrilled to be there. She loved the elephants and the primates the best.

My husband, Brian's mom came to visit us and we went to Ape Caves. For about a month previous to that visit Brian was feeling not quite himself and had to take off work because he was feeling dizzy, light headed, and brain fog every time he stood up and it was getting worse. While we were at Ape Caves he had to sit down a lot and take it easy. He was finally diagnosed with what is known as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, POTS after a whole lot of persuasion from him to his regular doctor and a visit by an actual Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O. or DO). He is being treated now, is feeling better and has been back to work for a while now.

Brian has been tremendously busy with all his various projects. He has been doing a lot of house remodeling like the roof project, vehicle repair and renovation, and trying to get our business, Pony Feathers, up and running...all of this while working at the power plant and dealing with his health.

Our dog, Prince has been having fun chasing a green laser across the floor that my husband got to point at celestial bodies in the night sky for use with our homeschool astronomy lessons. He is also very spoiled with lots of hugs, petting and love from all of us. Zari's favorite word is dog and she says it every time Prince is scratching on the door to go out or in, barking, trying to nibble on Zari's food when we are not looking or she sees him or any other dog.

Teela has been loving her play food and small play kitchen. She is quite the little imaginative cook. I have been trying to have her help out in the real kitchen with food preparation and she is a wonderful helper. She also loves her dolls and rocking horses.

Zari has been growing a lot! She is walking, running, saying some words like mom, dad, dog, Delbin, Jaedan, baby, etc. She has 8 teeth all in front and some molars coming in. She loves books and enjoys music a lot. She loves giving big hugs and kisses. She absolutely adores her sister Teela and loves playing with her.

Delbin my oldest son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. It has been an interesting ride so far with this and we are still trying to figure out how to manage the carbohydrates he eats in foods. We still haven't gotten quite away from prepackaged food and drink yet for him because it is easier just looking at a label for what the carbs are. For now it is really hard for me to figure out carbs for a casserole or other mixed dish I normally make for dinner but maybe we will someday get the hang of it.

We had a really great Christmas. We received unexpected gifts from Secret Santa and the Rainier Gift Giving Program this year. We had a real Christmas tree donated to us, got gifts for the kids from giving souls off the Rainier Giving Program (sorta like the angel tree) and received an unexpected knock on our door and two bright red sleds with a large bag of peanut M&Ms left at our doorstep. My oldest has been asking for a sled every winter. Our neighbors sang carols at our door too like they do every year even though they were super busy with the giving program and even though it didn't snow for Christmas it was still wonderful!

My sister, Melody welcomed her new baby girl into the world at close to the end of December. This will be her first child. She along with her husband will learn so much parenting skills and gain so much experience and knowledge by doing. I know I have.

So, my New Years resolution is to have a healthier happier home. What ever I can do to achieve this I will try my best to accomplish. I wish to make healthier meals for my family including Delbin. We bought passes to the local YMCA so that we can go swim and workout so I want to do that more, gain some more upper body strength, and maybe tighten my abs :) I would love to spend more time with my family doing things we all love to do and I am trying to live a better more eco-friendly lifestyle. All in all our 2011 was pretty good. How was yours and what are your New Year's resolutions??

Wubbzy and the Fire Engine, Putumayo Celtic Christmas, Teething Bling, SKOY & NachoMama Tees Giveaway Winners

2011-12-31T12:09:00.000-08:00

The winner of the Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! Wubbzy and the Fire Engine DVD is #1 karenmed409! She said she would like to have the Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!: Go For Gold! DVD, he is such a lovable character and the kids love him. He always seems to teach a lesson in each episode.

The winner of the Celtic Christmas album by Putumayo World Music is #13 Lindsey! She said she would love the Latin Beat CD, too. :)

The winner of the Smart Mom Teething Bling Jewelry Gift Set is #17 The Fuzzy Fluff Addicted Momma! She said she would like the Jade and Brown gift set.

The winner of the SKOY Cleaning Cloths 4 pack is #23 coriwestphal! She said she learned that Skoy cloths are meant to last for months! That's so economical!

The winner of the NachoMama Tees $15 Gift Card to CrazyDog Tshirts is Melody! She said she would get the "Meh" t-shirt. (she was the only one that entered this giveaway)

Congrats again to all the winners! I will contact each winner by email. If you did not have your email posted please post it here so I can email you! Thanks to all those who participated and don't forget to enter in my contests/giveaways that are going on now! I will also be adding more posts and giveaways soon so stay tuned!

*All winners are chosen by my True Random Number Generator.

Rainier Oregon Gift-Giving Program

2011-12-20T14:58:00.000-08:00

My good friend and fellow homeschooling neighbor, Talina Aubian, has been tremendously busy giving her time and her love to the Rainier Gift-Giving Program with the Angel Trees that have been posted around Rainier Oregon. She and others have been making sure kids in this community don't go without this Christmas. The number of kids that have been provided for is an astounding number of over 200! Each child was selected by a member in the community that witnessed their need and the entire process is anonymous.

My family was among the ones on the receiving end of all of this selfless charity. We were not expecting this at all and want to thank whoever put our name in and whoever got gifts for our kids. They are so excited! I also want to thank Talina and whoever donated them to her for the awesome real Christmas tree for our home! I love the wonderful smell it brings. The kids loved decorating it and placing the new gifts under it! We are so very grateful and are truly blessed. God is good!

A Heart Renewed (Prescott Pioneers 2) by Karen Baney FWCT Book Review

2011-12-20T13:52:00.000-08:00

Today's Wild Card author is:

Karen Baney

and the book:

A Heart Renewed (Prescott Pioneers 2)

Karen Baney (April 17, 2011)

***Special thanks to Karen Baney for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Headstrong. Unconventional. Until life turns upside down…

Julia Colter struggles to accept life under her controlling brother’s greed. The suitors he selects would benefit him, but are far from the ideal husband for her. When her rebellion against her brother puts her life at risk, she turns to her friend for help.

Adam Larson longs to train horses and plans to head west to the Arizona Territory to see his dreams fulfilled. When his sister’s best friend shows up in the middle of the night, he agrees to help her flee. The decision changes his life, in more ways than he expected.

Can Julia forget the pain from her past and open her heart to love?

Product Details:

List Price: $14.99

Paperback: 338 pages
Publisher: Karen Baney (April 17, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0983548625
ISBN-13: 978-0983548621

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Star C Ranch, Texas

July 4, 1864

“You cannot be serious, Reuben!” Julia Colter shouted, not caring that she might wake her niece and nephew from their afternoon nap. Pacing back and forth across the length of the kitchen, she stopped in front of her older brother, her temper flaring almost as hot as the stove. “He is balding and fat and twice my age!”

“You will marry who I say!” Reuben thundered. “I expect you to treat Mr. Hiram Norton with the upmost respect this evening. He has shown great interest in you and the least you can do is be civil with the man.”

“But, I could never love him!”

As Reuben shoved her violently up against the wall, Julia’s breath left her lungs in a rush. Digging his fingers into her arms, she could feel the bruises starting to form. His brown eyes darkened with unrestrained anger as he glared down at her. She swallowed in fear, stunned by his abrupt action.

“Stop, you’re hurting me,” she said, trying to break free from his vice like grip.

He raised his hand as if he meant to strike her—something he had never done before. The action startled her to silence. Instead of hitting her across the face, as she thought he might, Reuben returned his hands to her upper arms squeezing even harder.

Leaning so close the heat of his breath warmed her cheeks, he said, “You have no idea what hurt is, Julia. You are an insolent little whelp. You will paste a smile on that tart little face of yours. And you will do your best to win his affections or,” his voice menacing, “you will suffer my wrath, the likes of which you have yet to see.”

Releasing his hold, he pushed her so that she tumbled to the floor in a heap. As he turned to walk away, he added in a sinister tone, “It would be best if you get used to the idea of Hiram Norton and give up fanciful notions of love, dear sister. You will not have that luxury. The sooner you come to accept that, the better it will go for you.”

She sat in stunned silence as Reuben stalked to his office down the hall. Tears streaming down her face, Julia bolted to her feet, running out the front door of the ranch house to the nearby stables, still frightened by her brother’s brutal behavior.

The smell of hay and horse assaulted her delicate senses as she selected a gentle mare. Throwing her saddle on the horse’s back, she led her from the barn. Once under the open blue skies, she shoved one foot into the stirrup, swinging her other leg over the mare, riding astride. Nudging the mare into a full gallop, Julia fled to the one place she would always feel free—the back of a horse in the wide open pastures.

Reuben may be her guardian now, but she had only to endure a few more years of this before she would be of age and in control of her life. If only she could stop him from marrying her off before then.

At seventeen, she considered herself too young to get married, though many women her age and younger married. She wasn’t ready. She didn’t pine for the responsibilities marriage entailed. She liked her freedom. But, when she was ready to marry, she would marry for love and not because Reuben wished it.

Certainly, she would never marry Hiram Norton. The thirty-seven year old rancher was the exact opposite of what Julia wanted for a husband. His short stature and fading hairline made him look even older. He had a reputation for loving excess. When it came to food, his waistline showed the results of that love. There were other unsavory aspects to his reputation as well which included rumors that he frequented the saloon and brothel.

No, the man for Julia would be young and handsome. His character would be impeccable, his honor undeniable. Land, money, and wealth held no importance to her. She only cared that her dream man would be able to provide for her and their family.

As the wind tangled her long, sandy brown curls, she continued to press the horse for more speed—needing it to soothe her fear and anger. In the distance she saw the herd of longhorns kicking up dust. The sight sparked a memory of Will, the kinder, more honorable of the Colter brothers, sending her mind racing in another direction. So many times he’d taken Julia out to the pasture, teaching her how to rope, ride, and work with the cattle. Some thought such behavior unacceptable for a lady. She was glad to learn these skills. Should her handsome young dream man end up being a rancher, he might appreciate her ability to work the ranch by his side.

Why hasn’t Will written? The thought of Will brought fresh tears as memories of his hasty departure flooded her mind. Not only had she buried her father, but she also lost the brother she was close to—all within a few short weeks. Almost a year ago, following her father’s death, Reuben forced Will to leave the ranch when he had been deeded the house and ranch. While Will and Reuben both received half of the herd and the financial holdings, Will was left with no home or land. Unable to find anything close, Will moved to the Arizona Territory, leaving Julia behind. Alone.

The only time she heard from him was in November 1863. Will wrote that he, his men, and his cattle arrived safely and set up their new home near the Granite Creek settlement in the Arizona Territory—wherever that was. No other letters came.

Despite the thirteen year age difference between Will and Julia, they adored each other. She followed him everywhere, never far from his side even when he worked with the herd. When she needed protecting, it was Will who came to her defense.

Oh, how she could use his protection now. If he were here, he would stop Reuben from forcing her to marry that awful Hiram Norton.

But, he wasn’t here. He was in a distant territory, far from Texas, far from her aid. Her father left her in Reuben’s care—not Will’s—even though Will would have been the better choice as far as Julia was concerned.

Their father never saw the evil that clouded Reuben’s heart and he knew nothing of his manipulative ways. In her father’s eyes, Reuben was as good of a son as Will. If her father knew of Reuben’s late nights in town or of his forceful tactics for bankrupting other ranchers and taking over their lands, he turned a blind eye. She found it hard to fathom that father could have missed such thinly concealed behavior.

As the mare started to struggle for breath, sides heaving with great effort, Julia eased up the pace. She was so torn. She had thought more than once to runaway to Arizona, but was afraid Reuben would find her and drag her back. Now he wanted her to flirt with Hiram Norton and get him to marry her. She had no desire to do what Reuben was asking. Mr. Norton may be wealthy, but he was twenty years older than her. There was something indecent in that alone. Nothing about him or his character appealed to her.

Realizing she was nearing the outer pasture, Julia turned the mare around to head back to the ranch house. She did not want to risk angering Reuben further by being unprepared for their dinner guests. Lord, please don’t make me have to marry that repulsive man. Will always said you could work things together for good. I am not seeing much good right now. Please give me the strength to make it through this evening meal.

As she pulled the mare to a stop in front of the stables, she slid off the horse. One of the young cowboys, Bates, took the reins from her hand.

“Miss Colter, you best hurry,” he said, nodding toward the lane leading to the ranch house.

A cloud of dust at the far end of the lane indicated their guests were already arriving. Julia shot a quick word of thanks to the friendly cowboy before picking up her skirts and running to the house. As she threw the door open, panting for breath, she caught Reuben’s seething look.

Rushing down the hall she slammed her bedroom door shut. She splashed some water on her face, wiping away the dust from her ride.

“Where have you been?” Mary’s panicked voice preceded her entrance into Julia’s room. Reuben’s normally calm, quiet wife seemed rather anxious as she picked up the corset she laid out.

“Riding.”

“Whatever for?” came the squeaky, agitated response.

Julia tore off her day dress, tossing it over a chair. As Mary came to assist her with the corset, Julia took her last deep breath of the evening. She hated the confining contraption. Once the stays were tightened, she lifted her arms as Mary helped settle the lovely yellow silk down over her shoulders.

“You should have been in here an hour ago,” Mary lamented. “Now there is no possible way we can fashion your hair into ringlets. The other women will think you don’t care about your appearance.”

They would be correct, Julia thought. “You fret, too much,” she replied, brushing out her tangled curls. She would be content with twisting her unruly hair into a chignon, despite how much it fought against the pins.

“Go on. I’ll finish,” she instructed Mary, hoping to have a quiet moment to compose herself before entering the fray.

Mary hesitated for a brief moment before softly exiting the room. Taking as deep a breath as she could, Julia let it out in a heavy sigh. Undoubtedly, Hiram Norton was already here, waiting for her in the other room. Pasting a smile on her face, she squared her shoulders and left the solitude of her room.

“Hiram,” Reuben said as Julia approached, “I do not believe you have met my sister, Julia.”

It took every ounce of courage to hold her smile steady and extend her hand towards Mr. Norton’s rotund frame. Taking her hand, he placed a sloppy kiss on top, before asking, “Reuben, where have you been hiding this lovely filly?”

Filly? The distasteful comment sickened her.

“Mr. Norton, a pleasure to meet you,” Julia said with more decorum than she thought she possessed. As soon as his hold lifted, she discretely wiped the back of her hand on her dress.

“Miss Colter, you are absolutely stunning,” he replied, allowing his lustful gaze to rove over her neckline, down her curvy figure, making overtly inappropriate stops along the way.

She fought to tamp down her mounting abhorrence. As the guests were seated around the table, she eagerly helped Mary set out the food.

Still irritated by Mr. Norton’s uncouth comment, she decided to fight back as she took her seat. “Mr. Norton, my brother tells me you have been very successful with your ranch, despite the Union’s blockade. Tell me, how do you do it?”

Reuben’s eyes narrowed slightly, letting her know he caught her barely hidden sarcasm.

“My lovely Miss Colter, such matters are too complicated for your simple mind to understand.”

Another mark against Mr. Norton—condescension towards women, she thought, keeping the sweet smile firmly in place. Lobbing a spoonful of potatoes on her plate she waited for him to continue.

“However, I shall endeavor to enlighten you,” he said with an air of superiority, snatching the potatoes from her hand. “While the Union may have blockaded our route to drive cattle to the New Orleans market, they have made no such effort to stop us from driving to points north or west. It seems that as long as we aren’t supplying the Confederate Army, they care little where we sell our cattle. We have simply changed our route north to the railways in Missouri. While I don’t care for the Union and their imposing ways, a profit is a profit. And I have made significant gains by being one of the first Texans to sell to eastern markets by way of Missouri.”

“Mr. Norton.” As her irritation rose, Julia retorted, “If a large profit is to your liking, why not drive the cattle west towards the California market where prices are more than triple that of the eastern markets?”

Reuben shifted in his chair uncomfortably. His darkening eyes warned her to hold her tongue. Julia knew she should have heeded the warning, but she preferred being forthright. Let Mr. Norton find that out now.

Mr. Norton laughed off her question, causing her to dislike the man even more. “You are a spirited little woman, I will give you that. But your comment shows your youth and your naivety.”

Taking not one, but two large pork chops from the platter she handed him, he said, “While the prices west are much higher, so is the cost to drive the cattle such a great distance. The length of time it takes to drive the cattle to California is almost three times as long as the northern route. It is also much more dangerous. There are many more Indians and cattle thieves westward. It would simply not be profitable to drive the herd west.”

His snooty tone grated on her nerves. When she opened her mouth to speak, Reuben interrupted. “Perhaps, dear sister, you should leave the business matters to men. I’m sure you would be much more interested in knowing how Mrs. Withers’ new baby is faring.”

Mrs. Withers quickly picked up the conversation, monopolizing both Julia and Mary’s time. While Julia was surprised Reuben even knew the woman had a child, she was thankful for the opportunity to ignore Mr. Norton.

As the conversation continued, she felt something brush against her knee then move away. She kept her focus on Mrs. Withers’ overlong description of her young son and on eating the meal, until she felt the unmistakable presence of a man’s hand move above her knee. She stole a glance and confirmed Mr. Norton’s hand rested most inappropriately on her thigh. Angling her legs further away from him as discreetly as possible, Julia’s stomach churned. When Mr. Norton pressed closer, she thought she might lose her dinner. The man appeared to have no limits.

Standing abruptly, she said, “If you’ll excuse me. I’m not feeling quite myself.” Without waiting for a reply she hurried to her room.

Reuben scowled after his sister. Her behavior had been completely unacceptable, despite his attempt earlier in the day to reason with her. This silly idea of marrying for love must have worked its way into her thinking from the stories their father told of their mother. No one married for love.

He certainly hadn’t. While Mary was pleasant looking enough and easy to control, he did not love his wife. He had married her to increase his social standing among the area ranchers—something his father never seemed to care about. Her father had been one of the wealthier men in the area and he was easy to win over. In fact, Reuben thought, most everyone he met was easy to manipulate—except Will and Julia.

It didn’t matter. Will was gone and out of the picture. He was no longer a nuisance, even though it was Will’s fault that he was in such a financial mess. The timing of Will leaving with half the herd and half the financial holdings was disastrous, leaving him unable to pay debts to some very powerful men—a situation he was desperately trying to resolve.

The last bite of his pork chop churned in his stomach as fear gained a foothold. He needed Hiram’s money from the marriage arrangement to Julia. It was his only hope of turning things around.

As his guests finished the meal, Reuben stood. “Gentlemen, shall we retire to the front porch for some refreshments and cigars?”

The men eagerly nodded, obviously wanting to be away from the women as quickly as he did. As Hiram stood, Reuben pulled him aside. Speaking loud enough for the others to hear, he said, “We’ll join you in a moment. Hiram and I have a few business matters to discuss.”

Leading Hiram back towards his office, Reuben hoped Hiram would still be amiable to the agreement they discussed several days ago at the saloon, despite Julia’s less than enthusiastic attitude this evening.

Before he offered a seat, Hiram took one, starting the conversation on his terms. “Julia is quite lovely, Reuben. You’ve been holding out on me. When you asked for such a large sum, I assumed she must be dreadful to look at.”

“So you are pleased?”

“To a point,” Hiram admitted. “While she’ll keep me entertained well, she needs to learn to control her tongue, especially in front of guests. I’m surprised you haven’t dealt with this already.”

Reuben frowned. If only Hiram knew what he was up against. With any luck, he wouldn’t find out until after his wedding day. “Well, father has only been gone a short time. He doted on her, so it will take some time to get her to properly respect a man.”

“Ah, there’s the catch. I’ll have to train her myself then.” Hiram laughed. “It will be a fun challenge—breaking her. Too bad you didn’t have more time to do the job yourself. You could get a much higher price for her, as beautiful as she is.”

The price he was asking was enough. Normally prone to greediness, when it came to selling his sister’s hand in marriage, he felt it prudent not to get too greedy. He was running out of time and needed to pay his debts soon. Once that pressure slackened, he could focus his energy on rebuilding his wealth.

A brief hint of remorse came over Reuben. Had he stooped so low that he was selling his sister for money? But, it was not as if he were selling her to a brothel. No, he was just selling her to a wealthy rancher. She would live in luxury. What could be bad about that?

He knew living with Hiram Norton would not be pleasant. The man had a reputation for being ruthless to his business associates, to his women, and even to his mother. He had no limits. He made Reuben look like a saint. Julia would undoubtedly be miserable married to him until she learned her place.

Chiding himself, he refocused his attention back to what Hiram was saying. He needed this man’s money, not a sudden case of conscience.

“After we have our cigars,” Hiram was saying, “then, I will take Julia for a walk. See if I still fancy her. When I return, we will announce our engagement. It will be short. No longer than a month.”

Reuben held back a gasp. He hadn’t expected Norton to want a short engagement. “You know what the townsfolk will say with such a hurried wedding. They will think my sister has been compromised.”

Pulling a large stack of bills from his coat pocket, Hiram slammed it down on the desk. “I don’t think you will care too much what is said about your sister’s reputation. Who knows, what they say may end up being true anyway.”

The dark look on Hiram’s face sent shivers down Reuben’s spine. Ruthless seemed rather inadequate of a word to describe the man before him. He had to make sure Julia did not ruin this deal, for he did not want the added pressure of Norton’s anger.

Mary knocked on Julia’s door not more than ten minutes after she left the meal. Her voice was timid when she spoke, “The men have retired to the front porch for cigars. Reuben requested that you return to the parlor with the women.”

Sighing, Julia did as instructed. She listened to the gossip of the rancher’s wives and wished her friend Caroline Larson was in attendance, so she might actually be able to enjoy the evening. The Larsons owned a ranch to the east of the Star C and they had been long-time family friends. Up until last year, before father passed away, the Larsons were always invited for every social gathering—sometimes they were the only guests. Since then, Reuben saw little use for Mr. Larson’s moral ways and only included them on rare occasions to pacify her or his wife.

Not paying attention to the boring conversation, Julia missed seeing the men return from the outdoors. Mr. Norton’s hand on her forearm jolted her from her thoughts. “Miss Colter, I was hoping you might take a walk with me.”

“And who will be acting as chaperone?” she replied curtly, not wanting to be alone in his presence.

Mr. Norton laughed, a sound she was beginning to detest. “Silly girl, I am much too old for a chaperone. I assure you, your reputation will be safe with me. I simply want to stroll for a few moments with a beautiful woman on my arm.”

Julia thought a stroll might be too much for the man. He was sweating profusely and seemed to have difficulty walking the distance to the door, as his breath came in short, heavy bursts. She looked to Mary for support. She smiled and nodded her approval, oblivious to Mr. Norton’s reprehensible behavior. As Reuben stood next to Mary, his eyes narrowed with a silent warning. Heeding the unspoken message, she stood and accepted Mr. Norton’s arm.

Outside, the air barely cooled in the waning sunlight, causing Julia to grow warm in a matter of seconds. She wished she thought to grab her fan when a sour odor wafted from the man at her side. Averting her face, she tried to catch an untainted breath of air. Unsuccessful, she decided parting her lips to breathe through her mouth might be preferable.

Nearing the stables, Mr. Norton stopped abruptly, turning towards Julia. The quick motion—seemingly impossible coming from the man who seemed to struggle walking much of a distance—frightened her. Sucking in air quickly through her mouth, a slight tickle lingered in the back of her throat, almost bringing on a cough.

When he spoke, his voice took on a sinister edge. Even in the dimming light she could see the contempt in his eyes. “Miss Colter, while I admire your feisty spirit,” he said as he grabbed her wrists, “It would serve you not to embarrass me again, especially by questioning my business practices in a room full of my peers. I can make your life most unbearable if you cross me.” Without warning he pulled her close and crushed his mouth down on hers as his hands took great liberty in exploring her body.

The shock of his action took a moment to register. Once it did, Julia brought her booted heel down hard on the top center of his foot, just as Will showed her. He dropped his hold instantly, crying out in pain. As he limped toward her, she ran for the front of the house to put some distance between them. Tripping over something, she stumbled, giving Mr. Norton time to catch up. He grabbed her bruised upper arms with surprising strength.

“Do not ever do that again,” he said in a hostile tone. “Do you not know that Reuben has promised you to me? Make no mistake, Miss Colter, I am a powerful man. If you want to live a decent, peaceful life under my roof, you best lose some of your haughtiness… Or, I will take whatever measures necessary to force it out of you.”

Julia blinked, trying to absorb all that he said. Was he saying that Reuben already agreed to her marrying this loathsome man? An ominous chill swept over her as he continued his intense stare. Her heart beat rapidly within her chest as her panic rose. She could not—would not—marry this dreadful man.

Dropping his hold on her, Mr. Norton extended his arm and placed her hand in the crook. “Smile,” he commanded as he limped to open the front door.

While her smile came insincerely, his seemed quite pleased. He crossed the room slowly, still favoring his injured foot, before stopping in front of Reuben and Mary. “Reuben, it gives me great pleasure to announce that Julia has eagerly agreed to accept my offer of marriage,” he said smugly. “She was so delighted that she agreed to a short engagement. We will be married in a month.” His fingernails dug into her arm daring her to speak otherwise.

The smirk on Reuben’s face told her this had been their plan all along. Such a public announcement, even though it was completely false, would be difficult to break. Lord, help me. I cannot marry that man.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 CrazyDog Tshirts Periodic Element of Bacon Shirt Review

2011-12-19T13:34:00.000-08:00

CrazyDog Tshirts has some great Tshirt Designs that have crazy sayings, humorous quotes and clever designs. I picked out one for my husband that I thought fit his personality well. The t-shirt is called the Periodic Element of Bacon Shirt and it reads Ba with smaller Bacon underneath and an atomic number of 121. I thought that this was awesome because of my husband's love of bacon, science, and his initials just happen to be B.A. :) He absolutely loved his gift from me. You can find this shirt in the Funny T-shirts section of the CrazyDog Tshirts website. The t-shirt is made from 100% cotton and feels soft to the touch.

These t-shirts would be great stocking stuffers or gifts to go under the Christmas tree this year. CrazyDog Tshirts has so many different ones to choose from. I am sure someone on your shopping list would be very happy with a great t-shirt from them.

BUY IT:
The Periodic Element of Bacon Shirt I received free for this review you can buy for $14.99 on the CrazyDog Tshirts website. You can also find other t-shirts from 6.99-$26.00.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to CrazyDog Tshirts for sending me a t-shirt for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 LUNA Bars: Chocolate Chunk and Chocolate Dipped Coconut Review

2011-12-18T13:30:00.000-08:00

Clif Bar & Company made LUNA in 1999 to satisfy a need for whole nutrition bars for women. These are packed with calcium, folic acid, vitamin D, iron, protein and fiber. These are great when you need something to sustain you until meal time. They are made of 70% certified organic ingredients and are the perfect snack to munch on the road or while you are out and about.

LUNA just came out with 2 new flavors that I got to try out for free to review on my blog: Chocolate Chunk and Chocolate Dipped Coconut! The Chocolate Chunk is very tasty and I love the chunks of chocolate throughout. It does sort of remind me of the cookie counterpart, but more nutritious. My favorite is the Chocolate Dipped Coconut bar though. I love anything with coconut and chocolate in it and it was heavenly! I was relishing every bite and thinking to myself that I need to get me a case of these! It is definitely a deliciously decadent combination of toasted coconut and chocolate.

LUNA has now 15 different yummy kinds of bars from the Chocolate Peppermint Stick bar (that I tried free because of their free holiday newsletter offer) to Chocolate Raspberry bar (that I won a case of a while back). You will want to sign up for their newsletter because they sometimes have free offers to try out. However I noticed that their Chai Tea flavor has been taken off their list and it was one of my favorites too. So...LUNA if you are reading this please bring back that flavor!

These bars are great stocking stuffers for the holidays!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to LUNA for sending me samples of their new bars for free to review. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 A Toy Garden Multicolored Beeswax Candle Making Kit Review and Giveaway

2011-12-17T13:39:00.000-08:00

A Toy Garden has a lovely selection of open ended, natural, creative and fun toys that are mostly Fair Trade and Made in the USA for children and their families. I love Waldorf and Montessori inspired toys and products because you can definitely see the great quality of craftsmanship and love that is put into these products. This family run webstore has beautiful products that help foster creativity, imagination, play, fun, together time, pretend play and learning.

I received the Multicolored Beeswax Candle Making Kit for free to review on my blog. This Make It Yourself Candle Kit has everything to make 12 or more beeswax candles! It includes 12 8x8 inch sheets of high quality 100% honeycombed beeswax in 12 different beautiful colors, 4 yards of cotton wick and instructions. My oldest 3 children loved making these candles. They created them using cookie cutters we had to cut shapes out of the sheets of wax and then melt them onto other sheets after they were rolled up with the wick inside. They had so much fun creating and decorating these. I helped them cut out the shapes and carefully punch them out of the cookie cutters. They used our hairdryer to slightly heat the wax so that it would roll up easier as directed and it worked very well. My children and I were very pleased with the results. These were so enjoyable to make together.

WIN IT:
Sonya at A Toy Garden is generously giving one lucky reader a chance to win another Multicolored Beeswax Candle Making Kit.

Mandatory:
Go to the A Toy Garden website and tell me what other product you love.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and A Toy Garden in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon #WIN A Toy Garden Multicolored Beeswax Candle Making Kit http://bit.ly/tHmp7C (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like A Toy Garden on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday January 13, 2012 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to A Toy Garden for sending me a Multicolored Beeswax Candle Making Kit for free and another to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 UncommonGoods Review and $50 Giveaway

2011-12-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

UncommonGoods is a unique online store with some very unusual items (some handmade) that you don't find in every day shopping usually. Their products make great gifts for the holiday and Christmas season! They also have some really interesting facts or what they call "Uncommon Knowledge" posted around their website and feature some of the artists and designers of their handmade goods in highlights on some of the pages on their website and their print catalog. They are committed to the environment and print their catalogs on recycled paper and there is also products in their store that are made of recycled materials. In their Better to Give Program they donate a portion of each order to your choice of non-profit organizations: American Forests, AmeriCares, City Harvest, and the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN).

I know my husband and most other men are the hardest to shop for during the holidays, but UncommonGoods has a selection of great gifts for him on their website that he would love. They also have this great guitar pick punch that I thought was very cool for someone that plays guitar. My favorite section is the gifts for kids because I love shopping for my children. This is where I found the two gifts for them that I got for free to review on my blog. I got the Periodic Table Building Blocks and the Pita Pockets Lunch.

The Periodic Table Building Blocks are awesome for homeschooling! I got them for my boys and as soon as they opened them they were looking up YouTube videos about each scientific element and learning about them. They also like taking some of the ones they know about and combining them to try and make new elements or see what would happen if combined. These are great for teaching chemistry. My younger children loved stacking them to build sky scraper towers and knocking them over. They come in a set of 20 brightly colored basswood blocks that contain the entire periodic table. The six sides contain a unique element's name, atomic number and symbol in bright blue, purple, green, red, orange or pink. Handmade in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The Pita Pockets Lunch I got for my daughter Teela because she loves to pretend play in her little fold up kitchen. I had never seen this set of play food before and was thrilled to have found it at UncommonGoods. I try to get play food for her that doesn't have fast food or unhealthy choices in it. This set is wonderful because it is all healthy. My daughter loves to mix and match the contents of the felt pita pockets stuffed with soft felt slices of lettuce and cheese, and wooden tomatoes, cucumbers, onions and green peppers!

WIN IT:
Rocky at UncommonGoods is generously giving one lucky reader a chance to win a $50 Gift Card to use in their store.

Mandatory:
Go to the UncommonGoods website and tell me which product(s) you would pick if you won.

Additional entries:
1. Tweet a link to the UncommonGoods gifts for him page.

2. Sign up for the UncommonGoods email list.

3. Vote on a product with the UncommonGoods voting tool ** Note – Please only post comments pertaining to the products.

4. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

5. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

6. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

7. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and UncommonGoods in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

8. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

9. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

10. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

11. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

12. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

13. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

14. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

15. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

16. Tweet this: @finamoon: @uncommongoods #WIN A UncommonGoods $50 Gift Card http://bit.ly/tP8Bm6 (Daily Extras are Available)

17. Fan/Like UncommonGoods on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

18. Follow UncommonGoods on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday January 13, 2012 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to UncommonGoods for sending me products for free and a gift card to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

On the Path with God by Erwin W. Lutzer, photography by John and Debora Scanlan FWCT Book Review

2011-12-15T13:45:00.000-08:00

Today's Wild Card author is:

Erwin W. Lutzer

Photographed by:

John and Debora Scanlan

and the book:

On the Path with God

Harvest House Publishers (July 1, 2011)

***Special thanks to Karri | Marketing Assistant, Harvest House Publishers for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR and PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Dr. Erwin W. Lutzer, Senior Pastor of The Moody Church since 1980, is an award-winning author of more than 20 books including Walking with God. He’s a celebrated international conference speaker and the featured speaker on three radio programs that are heard around the world. He and his wife, Rebecca, have been married for 35 years. They live in the Chicago area and are the parents of three married children.

Visit the author's website.

John and Debora Scanlan are partners in life and in creating Scanlan Windows to the World™ Fine Art Photography. They are internationally renowned for capturing the beauty, intrigue, and romance of the world while presenting the essence of every scene. Their work is featured in galleries, special exhibitions and juried art shows, on numerous products including cards and calendars, and in their breathtaking fine art photography book Windows to the World.

Visit the photographers' website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Inspiring meditations from the heart of popular pastor and author Dr. Erwin Lutzer join breathtaking photographs of winding country paths and cobblestone streets and invite readers to take time to walk with God. The joy-filled promises of faith await those who treasure an enriched journey with the Creator.

Product Details:

List Price: $15.99
Hardcover: 48 pages
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers (July 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0736939369
ISBN-13: 978-0736939362

AND NOW...THE FIRST FEW PAGES (The images were scanned so that you may see what this delightful book looks like, but the words were placed here from these scanned images, so that you may read and be blessed.) Please click on the images to see them larger:

Why Walk with God?

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world.

Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

John 8:12

A tour through a cemetery can be beneficial and educational. I like to read epitaphs because they often say something interesting about the person who is finished with this life and has gone on to the next. Maybe epitaphs should be required reading for everyone once a year. They are a reminder that life is short and that eternity is near.

Most epitaphs are serious, some are tragic, and yes, there are at least a few that are funny. I’m told that this poem is found on the tombstone of a lady named Anna Wallace in England:

The children of Israel wanted bread.

The Lord sent them manna.

Old clerk Wallace wanted a wife.

The devil sent him Anna.

Here is a poem I learned in grade school, though I doubt it is on a tombstone—it could be. It contains an important message about automobile safety:
Here lies the body of William Jay,

Who died while maintaining his right of way.

He was right, completely right as he sped along,

But he’s just as dead as if he’d been wrong!

My favorite epitaph is found in the Bible, embedded in a long list of genealogies in the fifth chapter of Genesis. To read these verses is like walking though a cemetery. The names are difficult to pronounce and we are left to guess what life was like so many centuries ago. Like the tolling of a bell, every tombstone bears the same message; six times we read the simple phrase “and he died.”

Then unexpectedly we discover that there was a man who did not die! His name was Enoch, and of him we read in verse 24, “Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.” Twice we are told that Enoch “walked with God.” In fact, He walked with God right into heaven!

This epitaph is perhaps one of the most beautiful phrases in the entire Bible. If it could be said of you and me that we “walked with God,” nothing more need be said. Those few words contain an eternity of meaning.

An Invitation to the Journey

Walking with God is both difficult and simple. Difficult because it takes thought, discipline, and commitment; simple because the same characteristics that apply to walking with a close friend or a loved one apply to walking with God.

Enoch walked with God in the midst of a society filled with temptations and obstacles just like those we face. He is a powerful reminder that we can be faithful to walk with God in our day as well. When we accept the invitation to begin the journey, trials and distractions need not keep us from our time with the Almighty.

Interestingly, Enoch was motivated to begin this journey after his first son Methuselah was born. Maybe he felt a new sense of responsibility as he held the baby boy in his arms. Perhaps as the child reached out to touch the stubble of his father’s beard Enoch said to himself, “I need to reorder my priorities and begin to take God more seriously.” Evidently he realized that the greatest contribution he could make in life was to guide his family on the right path.

Spend some moments reflecting on what motivates your heart to walk with the Lord today. Have you faced a trial and found yourself ready to give your sorrow to God? Do you long to leave a legacy of faith for your children? Maybe you’ve been in fellowship with the Lord for many years and you are ready for refreshment. Together we can explore how to walk with God and embrace the meaningful, remarkable, and abundant life He has planned for you. Let’s take a step forward toward the light of life.

You have declared this day that the LORD is your God

and that you will walk in his ways, that you will keep his decrees,

commands and laws, and that you will obey him.

And the LORD has declared this day that you are his people,

his treasured possession as he promised, and that

you are to keep all his commands.

Deuteronomy 26:17-18

Help for the Journey

I’ve often thought about what others might say of me after I die. I don’t mean the beautiful eulogies often given at funerals. Instead, I wonder what people will really think—what they will really remember about the impact for good or ill I have had in their lives. God of course, will give the final evaluation, but imagine our legacy if it could be said that we “walked with God.”

If an epitaph were written for you today, what would it be? Are you satisfied with that? What do you hope you will be remembered for?

Consider Jesus’ simple invitation to brothers Simon and Andrew referenced below. Think about how wonderful it feels to have Jesus call to you today in the same, simple way. What is your response to Jesus as He waves to you and says, “Come, follow me?”

As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men” (Mark 1:16-17).
God provides what you need each step of the way. What worries or weaknesses do you want to give to God—need to give to God—in exchange for His hope and renewing strength?

Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;

but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.

They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

Isaiah 40:30-31
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.

Psalm 119:105

One Kings Lane Flash Sales - Get a FREE $15 For New Members!

2011-12-15T12:49:00.000-08:00

One Kings Lane is a favorite Flash Sale site of mine. They have fabulous Home Decor, Kitchen Items, Bedding, Furniture, Rugs, Linens, Children's Toys & more at up to 70% off. New sales every day. There are so many awesome items on sale for the home at at One Kings Lane today!

Under The Kitchen section (Ends 12/18) on sale they have: Bodum French Coffee Presses and Coffee makers, cute aprons, hand blenders, knife sets, fry pans, cookware sets, pepper and salt mills, beverage dispensers, canisters, mixing bowl set, hanging pot racks, Viking mixers and toasters, kitchen scales, cookbooks, Tovolo kitchen gadgets, colanders, baking pans, stockpots, etc. They also have other sections of sales to check out that are going on now. So many awesome items to choose from!

Get a FREE $15 to spend there when you are new to sign up!!

I am eying a whole lot of kitchen stuff on sale at One Kings Lane now that is on my wish list: Tovolo 5-Pc. Measuring Cups & Spoons Set $15, Reston Lloyd Mixing Bowl Set of 5 in Aqua and Azure $25 each set, Tovolo Stainless Mixing Bowls & Lids (Set of 3) $25, Bodum 51 oz Ice Coffee Maker in Purple $19, Reston Lloyd 5 Pc. Utensil Set in Plum $12, etc.

They have such great prices from trusted brands like Tovolo, Viking, Bodum, and BIA Cordon Bleu! You can't and won't beat these sales and since they are flash sales they won't be around for long. These would be great gifts for Christmas! So don't delay!!

Get a FREE $15 to spend there when you are new to sign up!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in taking part of this deal. I am a fan of One Kings Lane and thought I would share the savings. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. My affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog! *Referral credits can only be used on purchases more than $30.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 NachoMama Tees Porpoise Shirt Review and $15 Gift Card Giveaway

2011-12-14T17:58:00.000-08:00

I love witty sayings and NachoMama Tees has some great ones on Cool t-shirts that you can wear. I love the one I picked out that says, "This shirt has a Porpoise" because I am a dolphin, whale, and porpoise fan. I have a whole bookshelf in my home dedicated to them. When I was younger I used to live in Alaska and I would collect clippings out of the newspaper about them and I met my husband online in a dolphin discussion forum called POD (Place Of Dolphins). You can find the Porpouse t-shirt in the Funny t-shirt section of the NachoMama Tee website. The t-shirt is made from soft 100% cotton and is super comfortable. I got a size small for myself because I am petite and it was a very nice fit. I love the beautiful royal blue color that this t-shirt is.

These t-shirts would be great stocking stuffers or gifts to go under the Christmas tree this year. NachoMama Tees has so many different ones to choose from. I am sure someone on your shopping list would be very happy with a great t-shirt from them.

BUY IT:
The Porpoise t-shirt I received free for this review you can buy for ~~$16.99~~ $13.59 on the NachoMama Tees website. You can also find other t-shirts from 6.99-$26.00.

WIN IT:
Pete at NachoMama Tees is generously giving one lucky reader a chance to win a $15 Gift Card to CrazyDog Tshirts (You cannot have received a promotional item within the past 90 days from CrazyDog Tshirts or NachoMama Tees or own a review/giveaway blog of your own in order to win this giveaway).

Mandatory:
Go to the CrazyDog Tshirts website and tell me which t-shirt you would pick if you won.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and NachoMama Tees in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon: @crazydogtshirts #WIN A CrazyDog Tshirt $15 Gift Card http://bit.ly/ua7Wzm (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like CrazyDog on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Follow CrazyDog on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday December 30, 2011 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to CrazyDog Tshirts and NachoMama Tees for sending me a t-shirt for free and a gift card to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

God Gave Us Love board book, by Lisa T. Bergren FWCT Book Review

2011-12-12T13:35:00.000-08:00

Today's Wild Card author is:

Lisa T. Bergren

and the book:

God Gave Us Love board book

WaterBrook Press; Brdbk edition (December 20, 2011)

***Special thanks to Laura Tucker, WaterBrook Multnomah Publicity, for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

LISA BERGREN is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than thirty books, with more than two million copies sold. A former publishing executive, she now splits her time working as a freelance editor and writer while parenting three children with her husband, Tim, and dreaming of the family’s next visit to Taos.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

As Little Cub and Grampa Bear’s fishing adventure is interrupted by mischievous otters, the young polar bear begins to question why we must love others… even the seemingly unlovable.

In answering her questions, Grampa Bear gives tender explanations that teach Little Cub about the different kinds of love that is shared between families, friends, and mamas and papas. Grampa explains that all these kinds of love come from God and that it is important to love others because…

“Any time we show love, Little Cub, we’re sharing a bit of his love.”

This sweet tale will warm the hearts of young children as they learn about all the different sorts of love, while the gentle explanations of each provide a valuable opportunity to encourage children to share with others a “God-sized love.” Now in a sturdy format, ideal for the littlest hands at storytime, bedtime, or anytime. Would make a great Christmas gift!

Product Details:

List Price: $6.99
Reading level: Ages 0 and up
Board book: 22 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook Press; Brdbk edition (December 20, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0307730271
ISBN-13: 978-0307730275

Here's an excerpt from the first book in the series: God Gave Us You (Board Book). (Click on images to see them larger):

Delbin has Type 1 Diabetes

2011-12-11T14:45:00.000-08:00

My oldest son Delbin, who is only 11, had been having headaches for the past couple days and we took him into the doctor on Friday. They took his blood, did some other tests and noticed he had lost 7 pounds since his last visit. They called that night to say his tests showed unusually high glucose levels (in the 700 range) so possible diabetes. They told us to take him to the ER that is at the hospital across the river from us so they could do more tests. My husband took him and I have been home with the other kids. They transferred him to the Doernbecher Children's Hospital at OHSU in Portland to get check ups with a Pediatric Endocrinologist (He actually saw one of my daughter, Tatiana's doctors.) and he has been there with my husband ever since. Late Friday night I got word from my husband, Brian. The doctors said Delbin should have been comatose with the levels he had. He wasn't really acting that sick to me, but I am glad we got it checked out when we did. They gave him saline solution through an IV and slowly his levels lowered to within the 400 range.

Saturday I got word that his glucose levels were back to normal in the 100 range. The doctors had diagnosed my son, Delbin with type 1 Diabetes (Juvenile Diabetes) and he has been getting insulin before every meal. They were taking out the IV as I was on the phone with my husband that day. I was so relieved that Delbin was OK.

I feel as if I should get an honorary nurses degree/license after all that I have been through with health issues in my family. My daughter, Tatiana, had all sorts of diagnoses because of a resected brain tumor and passed because of lobar pneumonia in April of 2010. My husband has a rare condition called Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) that he just came down with around May of this year and is now being treated with medications for it...and now my oldest son has Type 1 Diabetes. All these things just came on so suddenly and without warning. I guess it is true that "Life Happens". My family has been through a lot, but I also feel that there is nothing that is dished out that I can't handle. Like I said in my post about my miscarriage I had August of 2009, these things only make me stronger.

At this time Delbin hasn't been released from the hospital. I am hopeful that I can learn as I did with my daughter, Tatiana, to take care of him and make sure that he gets the best care possible. This might actually be a blessing for him, because he could use more responsibility. I am hoping he sees this the same way as I do and in time prospers with the knowledge that this disease will not ever defeat him!

Do you know of anyone with this diagnoses? How are they dealing with it? Please share your experiences, thoughts, recipes for healthy Diabetes friendly foods, etc.! Thank you!

A Dream Unfolding (Prescott Pioneers 1) by Karen Baney FWCT Book Review

2011-12-07T13:27:00.000-08:00

Today's Wild Card author is:

Karen Baney

and the book:

A Dream Unfolding
(Prescott Pioneers 1)

CreateSpace (December 19, 2010)

***Special thanks to Karen Baney for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

The promise of a new life and a chance to start over…
Hannah Anderson had the life she always wanted, married to the man of her dreams. When her husband’s brother gets in trouble with the law, the town turns against them, shattering her perfect life. Now they are left with only one choice—to head west to the Arizona Territory in the hopes of creating a new life. Will the journey be worth the cost?

Will Colter, after burying his father, is forced to leave the ranch he has called home for nearly thirty years. The journey is dangerous, challenging him and his men. Will he find the new life he was hoping for?

Or, is there a new dream quietly unfolding before their eyes?

Product Details:

List Price: $14.99
Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: CreateSpace (December 19, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1456512315
ISBN-13: 978-1456512316

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Cincinnati, Ohio

July 15, 1863

“Gunshot wound!”

Hannah sighed at the tense sound of her husband’s voice filtering down the hall from the parlor to the kitchen. Though she clearly heard the urgency in Drew’s tone, she took a moment to remove the half-baked biscuits from the heavy iron stove, lest they burn before she returned. This would be the third batch of baked goods she would toss this week so she could assist Drew in his surgery with one medical emergency or another.

Biting back a second frustrated sigh, she removed her cooking apron to don a fresh one. Tying the apron strings around her back, she entered the chaos of Drew’s surgery room. The heavy shuffling of feet echoed in the small room as four men grunted under the weight of the injured man. The acrid smell of blood hit Hannah full force. She recalled the days when the odor and sight of blood caused her stomach to roil. Nearly two years working by Drew’s side cured her of some of that sensitivity. Heart pounding rapidly, she prepared the ether cone, anticipating the forthcoming request.

“Get him on the table.” Drew instructed the men carrying the wounded bank manager, Mr. Davis, in a calm voice. As he turned to face her, his tone remained steady, “Hannah, I need the ether now.”

Hannah’s breath caught in her throat as she looked into Mr. Davis’s panicked eyes—her earlier frustration vanished. Whispering words of comfort, she placed the cone over his nose and mouth, silently counting out the seconds. Around the third second, his thrashing stopped and his body relaxed into an unconscious state. She let out a shaky breath, relieved by the sight.

Drew’s lanky form bent over Mr. Davis’s left leg as he intently studied the blood soaked trousers. Hannah offered Drew scissors and he cut the pant leg to better see the wound. The bullet was lodged in Mr. Davis’s thigh. He placed a tourniquet above the gaping hole to stop the flow of blood. Hannah mopped up what she could with rags silently praying for their patient and for her husband’s skill. As he requested the small forceps, she handed them over. Watching, she could not help but admire his steady hand and careful movements as he grasped the bullet with the forceps. Gently he removed the bullet.

As she administered another dose of ether, Drew threaded a needle with his long slender fingers, seemingly unaffected by the gravity of his task. He doused the wound to clean it before starting slow deliberate strokes with the needle to stitch the hole shut. When sweat beaded on his forehead, he barely noticed her swift action to dab it dry, his concentration so intense. Once he finished with the stitches, he wrapped the leg in bandages before checking for other signs of injury.

“I don’t see any other wounds,” Drew said meeting her gaze as he washed the blood from his hands. His expression remained unreadable. “Please sit with him for a minute while I speak with the men who brought him in.”

As Hannah pulled up a chair next to Mr. Davis’s still form, she caught most of the conversation playing out in the parlor, though slightly muffled from the distance.

“Bank robbery,” one of the men replied in response to Drew’s query.

Gasps echoed in the small parlor that served as a waiting area for patients, followed by the hiss of rapid whispering. Hannah, knowing who was scheduled for appointments, imagined their shocked faces at the unexpected announcement.

“Will you let Mr. Davis’s wife know he is here and resting comfortably?” Drew requested.

The men replied affirmatively before the sound of their feet faded behind the closed front door.

“Bank robbery,” Hannah muttered, surprised someone attempted such in the middle of the day in their peaceful town. She chided herself for thinking of Cincinnati as a town. With the large number of German immigrants arriving daily to work in the meat packing factories, her childhood home was quickly becoming a large city.

She checked Mr. Davis’s pulse again which returned to normal. The faint smell of ether hung in the air, intermingled with blood, causing her to take shallow breaths. Drew returned to the room with a deep frown on his face, obviously concerned with the news. As he listened to Mr. Davis’s breathing, Hannah went about cleaning and sanitizing the room and instruments, trying to hold her emotions at bay just a little longer.

As soon as she finished mopping up the trail of blood from the parlor to the surgery room, she jumped at the sound of the front door bursting open again.

“Phillip!” called out Mrs. Davis as she ran into the room. “Oh, Phillip!”

The frail woman gasped at the sight of her pale husband sleeping. Hannah breathed a sigh of relief that she completed the cleaning before Mrs. Davis arrived, fearful for the woman’s constitution. Glancing down at her blood splattered apron, she hoped to go unnoticed, certain the sight would send Mrs. Davis into a fit of apoplexy.

“Mrs. Davis,” Drew said, speaking in calm soft tones as he clapped his hand over the older woman’s, “he will be just fine. He is resting now, but should be awake later this evening. I would like to keep him here for a few days to make sure he is doing well, and then I’ll send him home to your capable care.”

“Thank you, Dr. Anderson,” Mrs. Davis replied, blotting her tears with a handkerchief before taking a seat next to her husband.

Quietly exiting the room, Hannah paused inside the doorway of the kitchen. The intensity of the preceding hours drained her energy as the emotions rushed forward. Leaning her head back against the wall, she let the tears roll down her face. Please let the image of Mr. Davis’s fear-stricken face fade from my mind quickly. The look had been so intense that she felt his fear as if it were her own—not in the moment she looked at him, but now as she returned to the calmness of her kitchen.

Wiping the tears from her face with the back of her hand, she removed the stained apron and threw it into a bucket to soak. Picking up a clean apron, she returned to the now half crunchy half soggy biscuits next to the oven trying to push the morning from her mind. Knowing there was no way to salvage the biscuits; she threw them into the waste and started on a fresh batch.

Carefully, she measured out the flour and buttermilk. The familiar actions of baking soothed her edgy nerves. Using the technique her aunt taught her, Hannah rolled out the biscuit dough and cut round forms, repeating the steps until all the dough formed raw biscuits. Numbly she continued through the motions until lovely golden brown biscuits emerged from the oven.

As Drew saw his last scheduled patient for the day, Hannah started her afternoon routine of tidying the clinic. Starting in the parlor at the front of the house, she straightened chairs and dusted the furniture. From the parlor, she turned left into Drew’s office since both surgery rooms on the right were occupied, one by Mr. Davis and the other by Drew and his patient. Hannah dusted her husband’s desk and stowed the patient charts in the largest drawer at the bottom of the oak desk. Taking a seat, Hannah flipped through the stack of bills. There never seemed to be enough time to see to everything. She needed to spend some time updating the ledgers soon.

Hannah stood listening as Drew escorted the last patient to the parlor. She entered the now vacant surgery room, wiping down all the surfaces. Once the room was cleaned, Hannah checked on Mr. Davis again. He was still resting peacefully, his wife clutching his hand as she sat in the chair, her chin resting against her chest either in prayer or in sleep.

Walking down the hall to the kitchen at the back of the house, Hannah began supper preparations. She felt most at peace in her kitchen—her domain. Perhaps it was from the few years she spent by her loving aunt’s side learning how to bake and cook, those domestic skills her mother had not instilled before her passing.

Shaking off the mounting melancholy, she shifted her thoughts back to Mr. Davis’s care. Following the meal, she would send Drew upstairs to their bedroom to get some rest. She would take the first shift watching Mr. Davis and then, sometime in the middle of the night she would wake Drew to take over.

At times like these, she wished Drew would hire a nurse. Hannah barely kept up with the laundry, cleaning, and meal preparations without overnight patients. Whenever a patient required round the clock care, she fell woefully behind in other chores. What would she do when she had children to care for?

“Barnes,” Drew greeted, with some hesitation, as one of the city’s policemen entered the clinic alone. Being one of two doctors in town, Drew often patched up robbers or drunken brawlers before Barnes hauled them off to jail. Occasionally he even visited the jail when Barnes deemed it too dangerous to bring the criminal to the clinic.

“What brings you here?” Drew asked, still unable to shake his concern that Barnes accompanied no one.

Barnes, his voice low and serious, asked, “May I have a word with you and Mrs. Anderson?”

Drew showed him to his office where their conversation could remain private. Once the bulky man took a seat, Drew quickly fetched Hannah. The lack of sleep from the night before did not help his increasing nervousness about the policeman’s unusual behavior.

As Hannah took a seat, Barnes started, “We have your brother, Thomas, in custody down at the jailhouse. He was identified as one of the men in yesterday’s failed attempt to rob the bank.”

Drew felt his throat constrict and his heart started beating rapidly, distressed over his brother’s increasingly wild behavior.

Sinking into the remaining chair, he asked tensely, “What happened?”

“From what we pieced together,” Barnes’ deep voice added to his air of authority, “it looks like Thomas, along with Sam Rogers and Ed Rogers, stormed the bank yesterday afternoon as one of the patrons was leaving. They pulled their guns on Mr. Davis and forced him to open the safe in the back room. Mr. Davis kept a loaded revolver in the safe, so once he opened it, he turned the gun on Sam and shot him in the foot. Then Ed fired on Mr. Davis.”

Still stunned, Drew merely nodded. He did not want to believe his brother was party to this crazy affair, crossing the line from rebellion to crime.

“After Mr. Davis was shot,” Barnes continued, “all three men took off, leaving the money behind. A few pedestrians noted the direction. We followed the trail and it led us to the Rogers’ house. We arrested all three men. Like I said, they are in jail and will remain there until a judge decides what is to be done.”

Drew looked over at Hannah. Her eyes widened with concern. Thomas rebelled for years, though never so boldly. Disappointment washed over Drew, quickly follow by guilt. If only he had been able to get through to Thomas. Maybe this would not have happened.

Ever since their father died, Drew’s brother could not contain his restless spirit. Thomas started hanging out with the Rogers brothers and things went downhill from there. The Rogers brothers bullied classmates during their school days and as they aged, they got worse: petty theft from the mercantile, vandalizing businesses, and picking fights with anyone who would pay them mind. When Thomas started staying out late and carousing with Sam and Ed Rogers, Drew did not hesitate to warn Thomas of the dangers of his actions. Closing his eyes, Drew clearly remembered the day he confronted his brother.

---

Drew woke to a thudding sound on the stairs. Sitting upright, he remained completely still, trying to determine if what he heard was real or imagined as his heart pounded against his chest. Thud. There is it was again.

Slipping from the bed, Drew carefully crept to the closed bedroom door. Slowly he cracked it open, just as a muffled curse reached his ears. Thomas!

Stepping from the room, Drew pulled the bedroom door closed behind him, so as not to wake Hannah. At the top of the stairs he made out Thomas’s limp form lying prostrate across several of the stairs. The stale cigar smoke and sickening sweet smell of whiskey clung to his brother’s clothing. As Drew approached, Thomas looked up and cursed again.

At first, Drew thought Thomas was merely drunk again—a frequent occurrence. But when he tried to help him up, Thomas recoiled and moaned in pain. Drew led him down the stairs and into the surgery room for a quick examination. Lighting the oil lamp, Drew saw the extent of his brother’s injuries. Besides the swollen black eye, his face and knuckles were covered with numerous cuts and scrapes. His ribs were also bruised. This must have been his worst fight to date.

“You must stop this Thomas,” he warned his brother, keeping his voice low. “The drinking, the gambling—it is only going to lead to trouble.”

“What do you care?” Thomas roared.

He grew weary of the familiar accusation. Thomas always thought Drew did not care—Drew always tried to show his concern. He was letting him live here. Wasn’t that proof enough that he cared? As his anger rose, so did his voice. “Look at yourself. Night after night you come home drunk or—”

“You have no right to lecture me! I’m old enough to take care of myself and do as I please. Mind your own business!”

“It is my business, as long as you are living in this house!” Drew volleyed back. Taking his brother in had been a mistake. He thought providing a home and some structure would help Thomas give up his wild ways. Instead, no matter what Drew did, Thomas threw it in his face.

“Don’t act like you are doing me a favor, Drew,” the hatred poured from his brother’s lips. “I know what you are doing. You just don’t want to feel guilty for leaving me here while you went to medical school. But you should! Living with Uncle Peter was awful!”

“Uncle Peter did his best to help you grow up with some discipline,” Drew countered.

“Don’t defend that selfish old man!”

The argument escalated until Hannah appeared in the doorway. When she looked from Drew to Thomas and back again, Drew shut his mouth mid-sentence. Thomas frowned, cursed, then turned and stormed out into the night.

He never saw his brother again, except once in passing on the street.

---

Hannah’s dainty cough brought Drew’s attention back to the discussion with Barnes.

“Dr. Anderson,” Barnes continued as he stood and walked to the front door, “I suggest you consider getting legal representation for your brother.”

Closing the door behind Barnes, Drew snorted. He refused to bail Thomas out of trouble again. Aware of the waiting patients, Drew ushered Hannah back to his office and closed the door, wondering just how much they overheard.

“What are you going to do?” Hannah asked, her anxiety evident.

“What can I do?” Drew replied, acknowledging his own helplessness in this situation. “He is a grown man and he is not my responsibility any longer.”

“Will you get an attorney as Mr. Barnes suggested?” she asked, her voice full of compassion.

“No,” he answered angrily. Seeing the shock on Hannah’s face, he quickly explained, “At some point Thomas must choose his own way. Well…he already has. He made that clear more than a year ago. There is nothing I can do or say that will change anything.”

Drew ran his fingers through his hair in frustration. His heart broke again as he thought of how disappointed his father would be. Perhaps his father passing on was a good thing. At least he would not witness his youngest son’s destructive behavior.

Sunday morning, Hannah put the finishing touches on the roast and slid it into the oven. Bounding up the stairs she quickly untied the apron from her waist. Standing before the mirror she brushed out her long strawberry blonde hair then twisted it into a chignon at the base of her neck inside the decorative black netted hair piece. She smiled, pleased with her appearance.

“You look lovely,” Drew commented as his pale blue eyes surveyed the light blue calico dress before resting on her eyes. Color flushed her face with the intensity of his appraisal.

“Come here,” he added, pulling her close. “Your eyes look bluer than the sky in that dress.” He brushed lips lightly across hers in a brief kiss.

Releasing her, he asked, “Looking forward to Emily’s visit?”

“I can hardly wait,” Hannah answered giddily.

As Hannah preceded Drew down the stairs, she could not contain her excitement over the planned Sunday dinner guests—Levi and Emily Werner. It had been two months since Hannah had seen Emily. Earlier this week, Levi stopped by the clinic to let Hannah know Emily would be back to church this week, having sufficiently recovered from her morning sickness. Hannah quickly extended an invitation for dinner, missing her best friend dearly.

Emily and Hannah grew up on adjoining farms several miles outside of Cincinnati. Hannah could not remember a time when she and Emily weren’t friends, despite being such opposites in looks and personality. With her dark curls and flashing nutmeg brown eyes, Emily charmed everyone, from the most reserved students to the toughest bullies in their school. As she grew older and began filling out her dress, boys noticed her long before noticing Hannah—not that any had noticed Hannah in school. Walking to and from school together, Hannah often found herself in the role of quiet listener to Emily’s constant chattering about what Amanda Taylor wore that day, or how the pigs on the farm gave birth to a large litter, or who danced with who at the last barn dance. Perhaps if Emily had set her mind on memorizing her lessons at school and not on such things, she would have made higher marks and Hannah would have spent less time trying to help her catch up.

Besides helping Emily with her school work, Hannah found in her a friend with whom she could confide her deepest sorrows, especially following her mother’s death. Even when her father sent her away to live with her aunt, she wrote letters to Emily almost weekly. When Hannah moved back to the farm with her father, years later, she easily picked up her friendship with Emily. Sadly, she was the only constant person in her life.

As Drew pulled the phaeton carriage to a stop down the street from the large whitewashed church building, Hannah scanned the crowd for her tall friend. Spotting her, she threw her arm up for a quick wave after Drew helped her to the ground. Emily turned without acknowledging Hannah and entered through the large dark wood doors. Perhaps she just didn’t see me.

Placing her hand in the crook of Drew’s arm, Hannah smiled, confident nothing could ruin her good mood in anticipation of a wonderful afternoon.

Once inside the church, Hannah watched as Emily and Levi took their seats in their normal pew. Drew led Hannah to the same pew. As soon as Drew and Hannah sat, she leaned forward to greet Emily, who immediately, without word, stood and followed her husband out of the pew.

“Emily, wait—”

“We’ll talk later,” Emily hissed, glancing back over her shoulder with a frown.

When Levi and Emily took a seat on the other side of the sanctuary, Hannah couldn’t help but feel hurt by her friend’s angry response. Had she unknowingly done something to offend Emily?

Feeling Drew’s body stiffen, Hannah peeked his direction. The couple on the other side of Drew stood and moved elsewhere. Soon, the pew in front of them emptied, as long time friends scattered to the edges of the room like marbles spilled on the floor.

Looking up at Drew she saw the stoic expression etched on his face.

“What’s going on?” she whispered, still trying to determine in what way she or Drew might have offended so many people.

Drew shook his head curtly.

When the music started, she shifted her gaze to the words in the hymnal, not needing to read them, but needing to hide her growing sadness over the rejection of her friends. Her voice sounded forced as she tried to sing praises to her God. Inside, she felt anything but gratitude.

Hannah shifted in her seat as the service dragged on. Her attention waned, not really hearing the words of the pastor.

As the last strains of the final hymn echoed in the wooden room, the pastor stood and gave a blessing. The sound of booted feet heightened as the crowd exited the church. Not waiting for Drew, Hannah hurried to catch up with Emily outside.

“Emily, we’ve been sitting together for years. Why did you move this morning?” Hannah asked as her friend tried to dodge her for a second time. “Aren’t you coming to dinner?”

“No, we are not,” Emily replied emphasizing each word, not looking Hannah in the eye.

“Are you not feeling well?”

“I am feeling fine,” Emily said, glaring at Drew as he came to stand next to his wife.

Hannah held her breath, hoping Emily might elaborate on her strange behavior.

“If you’ll excuse us,” Emily snapped as Levi started leading her around Hannah again.

Confused and hurt by Emily’s behavior, she reached out, placing her hand on Emily’s arm. “Please tell me, what have I done that offends you?”

Emily’s dark eyes flashed with anger as she turned to face Hannah. Brushing Hannah’s hand from her arm, she said, “It was our money, Hannah. We sacrificed and saved for years for that money. Levi took on that second shift at the meat factory so we would have enough for a home of our own to get out of that horrible squalor.”

“I don’t understand—”

“No, you don’t understand. And neither did Thomas. He just thought he could walk right into that bank and take what we worked so hard for,” Emily wagged her finger in Hannah’s face, causing Hannah to involuntarily take a step backwards. “And him, a worthless, gambling scoundrel! Never worked an honest day’s labor in his life. But, he thought he could just take what wasn’t his.”

“I understand your anger with Thomas, but—”

Levi, who stood with arms folded across his barrel chest, finally spoke, directing his comments to Drew, “A doctor is nothing without his reputation and yours is tainted by your brother’s wild ways. Tell me, Drew, did he try to hide out at your clinic when his plan failed?” Anger shrouded his words.

Drew dropped his arms to his side, stepping closer to Levi. “How could you think such a thing?”

Hannah bit her lower lip, hoping Drew and Levi would not come to blows. She was certain Drew would not win against the much larger man.

“Everyone knows you’ve been bailing him out of trouble for years. Well, this time the people of this city are not going to stand for it,” Levi responded through clenched teeth.

By now, several other couples gathered around listening to the heated conversation. Friends, who greeted her with a hug and warm smile last week, looked on with hatred carved on their faces. Tears threatened at the corners of Hannah’s eyes as the pain of betrayal heightened.

“There is nothing to get upset about,” Drew pleaded, looking around the crowd. “I have not seen Thomas in over a year.”

“That’s not what Mrs. Pierce said!” one woman from the crowd shouted. “She said she saw a man who looked like your brother going into the clinic late that night.”

Hannah frowned, balling her fist at her side. How can they believe that busybody over my husband?

“If anyone did enter the clinic that night,” Drew’s voice boomed, “it was without an invitation.”

“So you don’t deny what Mrs. Pierce said?” Levi pulled Drew’s attention his way.

Running his hand through his short sandy hair, Drew said, “I’m saying that it is possible someone could have entered uninvited without our knowledge.”

Emily raised her voice above the growing murmurs, “It doesn’t matter to me if Thomas entered your house with your blessing or not. I for one,” she said, resting her hand on her protruding belly, “will not be birthing my child at your clinic or with your assistance.”

Hannah’s tears streamed down her heated face as Emily’s words pierced her heart. How could Emily say such a thing? She talked for months about how wonderful it would be to have her best friend by her side as she labored to bring her first child into this world. Now, the friend who stood by her in a school yard full of bullies was acting the part of instigator. Did their friendship mean so little?

“And I won’t be stopping at your clinic for Franklin’s medications!” another older married woman shouted.

“When my niece has her child, I’m telling her to go to Doc Henderson!” A typically quiet man shouted.

As others added in vehement voices their promise to no longer visit Drew’s clinic, Hannah watched his face harden. Closing his eyes, he bowed his head.

Don’t give up, Drew! Her heart shouted.

When he lifted his head again, he held out his elbow for Hannah wordlessly. With a firm nod to her, she read the silent message: it was time to go. In the midst of angry murmurs circling about them, Hannah followed her husband to their carriage. As he took the seat next to her, his eyes faced forward. His jaw set in a hard line. His shoulders slumped in defeat.

Oral-B Stages & Crest Pro-Health FOR ME MommyParties Kit Review

2011-12-06T13:25:00.000-08:00

We were chosen to host a MommyParties sponsored by Oral-B Stages III/Oral-B Crest Pro-Health FOR ME. I love that these products are so very kid friendly and promote clean mouths and healthy teeth for the younger set. My guests enjoyed the party and took home some great party favors for tooth health. We played a game called Yucky Mouth vs Healthy Mouth and the kids enjoyed learning about Tips/Trivia for Healthier Teeth. We also watched Cars II and ate popcorn...then of course did the proper teeth cleaning techniques afterwards.

I have been teaching my kids tooth health since they were very young. It is very important to me and my family. Even my youngest daughter Zari is being taught how to properly care for her baby teeth. I was happy to see Oral-B teaming up with Disney to feature well loved characters like the Disney Princesses, Cars II, and Winnie the Pooh. My children have grown to love these characters and they loved seeing them on the product packaging.

Oral-B has 3 stages and Crest has teamed up with them to bring the 4th stage for older kids. The first stage is for 4-24 month old babies. In this stage they have tooth brushes that have non-slip handles and can fit in small hands. The baby-soft bristles are great for tender gums and new teeth. The second stage of products are for 2-4 year olds and help with developing skills for teeth brushing with a tooth brush their size and even a toothpaste target to help measure the right amount of toothpaste (a pea sized amount) where it needs to go. The third stage of products are for 5-7 year old children and the toothbrush has a built in tongue cleaner to promote fresh breath. The last stage is for children 8-12 year olds. Each stage puts together what your child needs during that time in their lives because kids outgrow things, including toothbrushes and all stages make brushing fun with Disney characters.

For the MommyParties sponsored by Oral-B Stages & Crest and Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME Party we received these contents in the kit:

· At least (11) Toothbrushes TOTAL
· At least 2 bottles of rinse – one bottle to sample and one to raffle off at the party
· 11 Flossers/Picks
· 11 Full-size Pro-Health toothpaste
· Gummy Vitamins for host/guests
· Host party packet – includes welcome letter, recipes and movie viewing party agenda, product sheet handouts for hosts/guests, movie viewing invites, coupons
· Cars II DVD
· Popcorn/Popcorn boxes
· Yucky Mouth vs. Health Mouth activity
· 26 Tips/Trivia for Healthier Teeth
· Balloons
· Gift bags

Be sure to check out Oral-B Stages and Crest Pro-Health FOR ME online! You can also "Like" them on Facebook and Follow @OralB and @Crest on Twitter.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to MommyParties sponsored by Oral-B Stages & Crest and Oral-B Pro-Health FOR ME for sending me a kit for free in exchange for hosting a party and sharing my thoughts on my blog. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this party or review.

Calling Bloggers to Review Diamond Candles

2011-12-05T08:47:00.000-08:00

Diamond Candles is calling bloggers to review their candles! Go here to find out more information to blog about it and to fill out the form...
http://www.mommasweeps.com/2011/12/calling-bloggers-to-review-candles.html

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to MommyPR I heard about this opportunity and wanted all my readers to know about it.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 SKOY Cloth Review and Giveaway

2011-12-04T09:15:00.000-08:00

SKOY are handy squares of reusable biodegradable absorbent cleaning cloths. They are so much better than a paper towel or napkin because of their reusability. They are such an earth friendly product. I love using SKOY with eco-friendly, family friendly antibacterial cleaning sprays like Method or Seventh Generation for surface cleaning. SKOY are also great for scrubbing with and hold up very well use after use. My littlest actually knocked over a glass of juice on the kid's little table and SKOY just sucked that spill up like a sponge, but without leaving behind a trail of nasty growies or liquid!

I have washed them in the washing machine and dried them many times now and they come out looking good as new. I have found that drying them in the dryer shrinks them a little, so either air drying or drying them on the lowest setting on your dryer is recommended.

My kids were thrilled with this product as well. They used one to clean the bathroom and when they cleaned the faucet and the mirror with it they both shined...no streaks and no residue like what paper towels or napkins leave behind. They made them gleam even better than using newspaper.

SKOY also has a great new school fundraising program. The kids will sell each pack for $10, of which $4 will go to the fundraising. Consequently, the school will purchase each pack for $6. That is a 40% gross profit for your school and it is raising awareness for an environmentally friendly product :)

BUY IT:
Choose from these different styles: mixed colors with flower print (4 pack), white with flower print (4 pack), mixed colors with inspirational text (4-pack), large cloth with paws print (2 pack), and my favorite for the Christmas season - holiday prints (3 pack). Each SKOY is approximately 7"x7" except for the large ones which are approximately 12"x10". All packs are $6.99 each on the SKOY website. They also have a subscription service so that you can be sent cloths when you need them on a regular basis. They are great stocking stuffers and holiday gifts!!

WIN IT:
Michelle at SKOY cloth is generously giving one lucky reader a chance to win a 4 pack (colors may vary).

Mandatory:
Go to the SKOY cloth website and tell me one thing you learned about SKOY cloth.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and SKOY in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon: @Skoycloth WIN: SKOY Cleaning Cloths - 4 Pack http://bit.ly/tGH2vs (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like SKOY on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Follow SKOY on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday December 30, 2011 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to SKOY for sending me 2 of their 4 packs of flower SKOY for free and an extra pack to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 Smart Mom Shimmer Teething Bling Review and Giveaway

2011-12-03T15:51:00.000-08:00

I love to wear jewelry when I am dressing up, but a lot of my jewelry I don't like wearing because it just isn't safe for my little ones when they are likely to put it in their mouths and I don't like it being tugged or pulled on by them either. That is why I love Teething Bling from Smart Mom Jewelry.

When wearing Teething Bling pendant necklaces or bangle bracelets I feel confident that it is safe for my littlest to chew on. The pendants have a clasp that when tugged on will pop open without harm to the jewelry or the person wearing it. I love their selection of colors and they also have bangle bracelets to match the pendant necklaces that are just as safe for your little one. Teething Bling is made from plastic that is food-safe, non-toxic, phthalate, BPA, latex, lead, and PVC free. They are also dishwasher-friendly.

I received a free Red Shimmer Pendant and an Emerald Green Shimmer Pendant for my Holiday Gift Guide 2011. The Shimmer Pendants are their newest design. They are beautiful and one of my favorites because of the gorgeous glistening that they do in the light. They would be great with holiday Christmas dress at a party or to dress up with for Christmas photos for cards this year. I just wish that Smart Mom had some Shimmer Bangles to match, but they do not...at least not just yet. They also have other colors that are beautiful in the Shimmer variety too. I love them all!

BUY IT:
All of the Smart Mom Jewelry would be a wonderful gift this season for a mom to a small one or a mother to be. Teething/Teen Bling Pendants cost $15.99-$23.99, Bangles cost $12.99 individually. You can even design your own gift set of either 3 bangles ($28.75) of your choice or one pendant and two bangles ($34.00) of your choice.

WIN IT:
Amy at Smart Mom is giving one lucky reader a chance to win a Gift Set of their choice. (choose 3 bangles OR a pendant and two bangles)

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Teething Bling from Smart Mom Jewelry website and tell me what Gift Set you would be choose if you won.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Teething Bling from Smart Mom Jewelry in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon: @TeethingBling #WIN A Smart Mom Teething Bling Jewelry Gift Set #Giveaway #giftguide http://bit.ly/vrfvDR (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like Teething Bling on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Follow Teething Bling on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday December 16, 2011 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to Smart Mom, LLC for sending me a Red Shimmer Pendant and an Emerald Green Shimmer Pendant for my Holiday Gift Guide 2011 for free, and a Gift Set to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Our Family Christmas Ornament Card Snapshot from Tiny Prints 2011

2011-12-02T16:40:00.000-08:00

Booming Blossoms:Winterberry Ornament Cards
Check out our collection of Christmas cards and holiday cards.

Our Family Christmas Card from Shutterfly 2011

2011-12-02T11:44:00.001-08:00

Pretty Pattern Christmas Card

Turn your unique photos into Christmas cards with Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 Celtic Christmas by Putumayo World Music Review and Giveaway

2011-11-29T17:46:00.000-08:00

Music is an inseparable part of Christmas. Christmas Carols (Noëls) have been around and sung from house to house and in churches for ages. I remember singing with my mother the carols around the piano and loving the family togetherness that I felt. That feeling all comes rushing back to me when the radio starts playing Christmas music during the holidays. I love the holidays, they are truly "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year".

If you are looking for a great gift this year for someone who loves music, Putumayo World Music is a wonderful pick. They have so many albums that are really great. I have reviewed the Putumayo Kids albums before and I love them because they are so multicultural and give the whole family a different musical experience than maybe they are used to.

I received the Celtic Christmas album by Putumayo World Music for free to listen to and review. I love this Christmas CD! Some of the songs on this CD I have heard before, but this CD makes them have a Celtic flair. You will hear traditional instrumentation from the music of Irish, French, Welsh, Norse, Scottish Cornish, and Old English. My favorites are: their version of O Come, O Come Emmanuel, the entrancing Noel Nouvelet, and the beautiful Manx Jezebel Carol! The whole album is a lovely addition to my holiday season.

TRACK LISTING:
01. The Albion Christmas Band - Here We Come A Wassailing - (United Kingdom)
02. Charles T. Cozens - O Come, O Come Emmanuel - (Canada)
03. The Gothard Sisters - Little Drummer Girl - (United States)
04. DruidStone - Noel Nouvelet - (Ireland Republic)
05. David Huntsinger - Angels We Have Heard on High - (United States)
06. Charles T. Cozens - Good King Wenceslas - (Canada)
07. Lasairirfhíona Ní Chonaola - Nollaig Bhan (White Christmas) - (Ireland Republic)
08. Steve Schuch & Night Heron Consort - Joy to the World - (United States)
09. Áine Minogue - Manx Jezebel Carol - (Ireland Republic)
10. David Arkenstone - God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen - (United States)
11. Dougie MacLean - Auld Lang Syne - (United Kingdom)

BUY IT:
You can get Celtic Christmas for $14.98.

WIN IT:
Beth at Putumayo World Music is giving one lucky reader a chance to win the Celtic Christmas CD.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Putumayo World Music website and tell me what other CD you would be interested in.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Putumayo World Music in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon: @PutumayoMusic WIN: Putumayo World Music Celtic Christmas CD http://bit.ly/uNsDui (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like Putumayo on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Follow Putumayo on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday December 16, 2011 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to Beth Blenz-Clucas of Sugar Mountain PR for sending me a Celtic Christmas by Putumayo World Music for free, information about the CD and an extra Celtic Christmas by Putumayo World Music to give away for free. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

There's Just Something About a Boy by Jenny Lee Sulpizio. Illustrated by Peg Lozier FWCT Book Review

2011-11-28T13:08:00.000-08:00

Today's Wild Card author is:

Jenny Lee Sulpizio

Illustrated by

Peg Lozier

and the book:

There's Just Something About a Boy

Isaac Publishing, Inc. (September 23, 2011)

***Special thanks to Jenny Lee Sulpizio for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jenny Lee Sulpizio, M.S. is a wife, business owner, and mother of three residing in Boise, Idaho. She is an active member within her church and community, and enjoys tapping into her creative side whenever she gets the chance. There’s Just Something About a Boy is the second picture book released in a series that also includes Mommy Whispers, an ode to mothers and daughters everywhere.

Visit the author's website.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR:

Peg Lozier is an award winning portrait painter and illustrator whose work is known for color, whimsy, and a sense of fun. Raised in Boulder, Colorado, she now lives with a plethora of pets in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Visit the illustrator's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

There’s Just Something about a Boy is a children’s keepsake picture book celebrating the special bond between a mother and her newborn son as she anticipates the love, laughter, and unparalleled adventure that will surely come from raising a little boy.

Product Details:

List Price: $12.95
Paperback: 30 pages
Publisher: Isaac Publishing, Inc. (September 23, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1609200365
ISBN-13: 978-1609200367

AND NOW...THE FIRST PAGES (click illustrations to enlarge):

Recalling the moment, that special day
Your tiny image took my breath away.
A precious baby with nothing to hide,
My sweet, little son nestled inside.
There’s just something about a boy…

I prepared your nursery
since around month five,
Waiting for the day
you’d finally arrive.
Stuffed animals, blankies,
your daddy’s first glove--
They sat in your room,
awaiting your love.
There’s just something
about a boy…

Get $15 Free to Spend at One Kings Lane!

2011-11-27T19:57:00.000-08:00

One Kings Lane is a favorite Flash Sale site of mine. They have fabulous Home Decor, Kitchen Items, Bedding, Furniture, Rugs, Linens, Children's Toys & more at up to 70% off. New sales every day.

Right now if you sign up as a new member you can get $15 for free!* I just saw some Melissa & Doug toys on there for $10-$80 that ends Wednesday Nov. 30th!! I love Melissa & Doug toys! Just sign up as a new member and get your free $15 now so you can get the deals asap!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in taking part of this deal. I am a fan of One Kings Lane and thought I would share the savings. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post. My affiliate links can be found in this post. Thank you for your support of this blog! *Referral credits can only be used on purchases more than $30.

EcoMom: Black Friday-Cyber Monday Sales, Plum District Deal and Daily Deals!!

2011-11-25T13:11:00.000-08:00

EcoMom is one of my favorite stores online. They sell an assortment of wonderful natural, organic, and healthy products that they have compiled and tested themselves to help parents make easy, practical and affordable healthy choices for their families. They partner with charities like Healthy Child Healthy World and team up with EcoMom experts in various fields of expertise to share their information for a healthier, more balanced, and sustainable planet and lifestyle for us all. Within their website they have an icon coded system to help you quickly evaluate which products work for your own family.

Right now EcoMom is having a Black Friday-Cyber Monday Sale. You can get $20 off when you spend $50 and $40 off when you spend $100 (discount automatically applied in cart). You will also get free shipping on all orders over $50 and a flat rate of $5.95 on orders under that amount!

Plum District is also having a sweet deal for EcoMom right now too! Just pay $25 and get $50 worth to spend at EcoMom! Just Click here for the deal! Also right now use code ENJOY10 at checkout for the deal at Plum District and get $10 off too, TODAY ONLY!!!

You can also save on EcoMom's Daily Deals! Today they are having a sale on a great baby carrier, a Good For You Girls - Moisturizer! Instead of the Regular Price of $18.99 you only pay the Special Price of $15.19 today only!! Everyday they have a new sale on something from their awesome store and by clicking the image below you can sign up to receive emails to know when these sales happen...

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to EcoMom AND Plum District for providing me this promotion information for my readers. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this post.

Buy One Get One FREE Starbucks Holiday Drinks! {11/17 – 11/20}

2011-11-16T15:59:00.000-08:00

Yes you heard me right, I did say FREE Starbucks!!! Starbucks has a new deal starting tomorrow BOGO FREE Starbucks Holiday Drinks! I will definitely be going to get mine. This girl's gotta have her caffeine every once in a while and that creamy coffee deliciousness is calling out to me :)

From 11/17 – 11/20, between 2pm – 5pm, you can get a Free Holiday Drink with a purchase of one!
Participating drinks include:

Peppermint Mocha
Skinny Peppermint Mocha
Gingerbread Latte
Eggnog Latte
Caramel Brulée Latte

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I wrote this blog post because I thought you might be interested in taking part of this deal. I am a fan of Starbucks and thought I would share the savings. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any compensation for doing this post.

Dragons of the Watch by Donita K. Paul FWCT Book Review

2011-11-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

Today's Wild Card author is:

Donita K. Paul

and the book:

Dragons of the Watch

WaterBrook Press (October 4, 2011)

***Special thanks to Laura Tucker of WaterBrook Press for sending me a review copy.***

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Donita K. Paul is the author of The Dragons of Chiril, Dragons of the Valley, and the bestselling DragonKeeper Chronicles with more than a quarter of a million books in print. She enjoys cooking, beading, stamping, knitting, and her grandsons. Not necessarily in that order.

Visit the author's website.

SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Trapped in a forgotten city, bound by secrets, Ellie and Bealomondore must enlist the dragons of the watch to find freedom.

Ellie knows exactly where she is going. She just wants to experience the pomp and circumstance of a royal wedding, then settle into a simple life with a country husband.

With too many choices, Bealomondore’s future is a tangle of possibilities. He is respected, well-known, and admired among the elite of Chiril, but Wulder demands he narrow his focus and follow his Creator, one step at a time.

Both Ellie and Bealomondore’s plans are thwarted when they find themselves lost in an isolated city. As they discern the needs of a group of wild children and a very old man, clues began to surface and a bigger picture is revealed. With the help of the dragons of the watch, can the two tumanhofers find the way out—and perhaps discover their connection to something greater than themselves?

Product Details:

List Price: $13.99
Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook Press (October 4, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1400073413
ISBN-13: 978-1400073412

AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:

Invitation

Ellie sat on her favorite boulder and looked Tak right in the eyes, telling him what was on her mind. “Gramps shouldn’t have taught me to read.”

Tak responded as he usually did when he received Ellie’s confidences. He lowered his head, placing it on her knee for a rub.

Ellie obliged her pet, stroking the white hair between his nubby horns with one hand while digging in the pocket of her homespun pinafore with the other. The mountain breeze toyed with the paper she withdrew. With difficulty, she smoothed the small poster out on her other knee. Dirty and wrinkled, it still made her heart beat a little faster.

Royal Wedding and Coronation

Princess Tipper

and

Prince Jayrus, Dragonkeeper and Paladin

All invited to the celebration

“All invited. But Ellicinderpart Clarenbessipawl and her goat Tak can’t come. No chaperone, no travel. Ma and Da aren’t interested. And Gramps just laughs. ‘You’ll see. You’ll see,’ is all he says. He should take me himself.”

Her younger brother’s shrill yell came from the knoll rising out of the river to the east. “Ellie! Ellie!”

He stood on the hill, grinning like a bear with a paw in the honey hive and his face red from running. His stubby tumanhofer body bounced with excitement. He held his fists above his head and whirled them around in circles. Something had set him off.

She stood and hollered back. “You be calling me by my proper name out in the open ’n’ at the top of your lungs, Gustustharinback. Ma will tan yer hide if she’s finding out you disgrace the family with such shabby care of our dignity.”

When he saw her, he cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted, “Yer wanted at home. Itta be good news.”

That information didn’t impress her. Probably a delivery of the bolt of muslin ordered, which meant she’d be cutting and dyeing lengths for making new clothes. Not exciting news at all.

“Can it wait?” She gestured behind her to the scattered goat herd. “I’ll have to gather Tak’s clan if I’m to come home now.”

“I’ll come help you.” Gustus charged down the hill toward the footbridge across the river.

Ellie stared at him for a moment with her mouth hanging open. The good news had nothing to do with cloth. Her brother would never voluntarily help bring in the goats for something as mundane as new clothes. He scurried down the path, slipping some on the loose rocks. But the precarious descent did not slow him a bit. Even in the narrower patches, where exposed roots of arranndon bushes tripped careless hikers, her sturdy brother skidded downward.

Folding the royal celebration notice into a small square, Ellie stuffed it back in her pocket. She turned away from watching her brother’s progress and nudged the goat. “Come on, Tak. You find the nannies, and I’ll find the billies.”

Ellie went one direction and Tak another. In a few minutes, she located the fifteen goats that formed the herd. Mostly young males, these animals preferred the rockier terrain. She suspected it had to do with their perpetual game of I’m-up-highest.

She clicked her tongue and tapped her staff on a rock. Their heads rose as if all attached to the same string, though they didn’t come right away. Each one chewed what was in his mouth and casually left his place one by one. Taking a serene amble down the hillside, they passed her, heading toward the bridge and home.

When the last one clomped by, Ellie rested her staff on her shoulder and followed. Tak already had the nannies plodding along the bank toward the footbridge. Gustustharinback trailed the nannies and carried the smallest of the baby goats in his arms.

He shouted when he caught sight of his sister. “Hurry! Aunt and Uncle Blamenyellomont are at the house. I can’t tell you the surprise, and I’m gonna burst with keeping my tongue from waggin’ and you from knowin’.”

She tapped her staff on the rock beneath her feet. The billies scampered before her, picking up her impatience and gratefully heading for home. Even after eating all day, they appreciated the handfuls of button grain they got from the farmer’s younger children.

With the goat hoofs pounding on the wooden bridge, Ellie couldn’t hear or be heard. So she waited until she’d caught up with her brother on the other side.

“What’s with all the falderal, Gustus?”

She watched as he forced a glare onto his face, erasing the impudent grin he’d been wearing. “You are to call me by my proper name if I have to call you by yours.”

“There’s a difference between shouting ‘Ellie’ and speaking ‘Gustus’ quietly.” She grabbed his arm. “Now tell me, or I’ll toss you into the river.”

He pressed his lips together and gave her his most obstinate glower. The corners of his lips twitched, and she knew he wanted to laugh. She let go. She couldn’t really dunk him while he carried the small kid.

“Why are our aunt and uncle here?”

“Can’t tell you that either. But they’s only stopping, not staying. We’d better hurry.”

Ellie lost Gustustharinback’s help as soon as they came in sight of the pens. He scuttled down the last hill and opened the gate but then ran through the goat barn, across the yard, and into the house.

The herd followed the leader through the opening and took up different places to observe their world. Ellie and Gustus had put many odd things within the goat pen for the animals to climb on. Old wooden benches, barrels, a huge thick branch they had pulled with the donkey’s help, and crates littered the ground. The goats enjoyed scrambling up, over, and around the obstacles.

Tak stayed at Ellie’s side as she put water in the trough and fastened the barn door securely open so the animals could come in if they wanted. He followed her out the door on the other side of the barn and waited patiently while she latched it shut.

Entering the back door so she could wash before meeting their visitors, Ellie noticed that the kitchen showed signs of serving tea. Her mother must have prepared refreshments to carry into the common room. Through the pantry door, she could see empty spots on the shelves, which meant the good china pot and the blue glass dishes were being used.

Warm water sat in a tub in the sink, and she used that to wash her face and hands. She pulled the scarf off her head, gathered her long, curly black locks into a ponytail and used the scarf to tie it in place. Wisps of hair immediately escaped and framed her tanned face. She washed her face again as if she could rid herself of the look of a farm girl. Hopefully Aunt Tiffenbeth wouldn’t make that tired old comment: “Your blue eyes would be more attractive if you scrubbed away some of that mud you use for face cream.”

Voices from the family’s conversation drifted through the partially open door. Aunt Tiffenbeth quarreled with Ellie’s father.

“Brother, you are wrong in this. Ellicinderpart is your eldest child and way past the age to be in the village looking for a husband.”

“If there’s a man good enough for her, he can just come courting here.” Her father’s voice rumbled in the wood-paneled room, and Ellie did not even have to strain to hear him. She stepped closer to the door in order not to miss a single word her aunt spoke.

“You are the most vexing man. That is not going to happen. It isn’t the way of things, and you know it. You’re selfish and your mind is rootbound.”

Only his older sister could get away with talking like that to Ellie’s father. She probably ought to go in before the discussion escalated to verbal warfare. She finished wiping her hands and draped the towel over one of the kitchen chairs around the square table.

“The girl is needed here.”

“The young woman is your unpaid servant.”

Excerpted from Dragons of the Watch by Donita K. Paul Copyright © 2011 by Donita K. Paul. Excerpted by permission of WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 Tiny Prints Holiday Cards Review

2011-11-15T11:16:00.000-08:00

The holidays are just around the corner and if you have in mind to send out holiday cards Tiny Prints has some really fantastic ones this year. I love the new Ornament Cards they have that you can hang on your tree! These are great to send out to family and friends this year. You can personalize so many different cards at Tiny Prints it is hard to choose which one. I love so many of them! I am very tempted to get one of the Ornament ones this year because they are unique and special. I have not done Christmas pictures this year yet of my family so I placed last years photo in an ornament one so you could see how great they are!

Tiny Prints provides simple, modern, and unique stationery from Christmas cards, New Years cards, party invitations, address labels, thank you cards. Once the holidays have come and gone, Tiny Prints will still be here to fill your stationary needs with their exclusive designs from the nation’s top designers. All year round, you’ll fine business cards, birth announcements and even custom wedding invitations. Come try the easy card personalization, a powerful preview engine and top-notch customer service and paper quality for yourself. With Tiny Prints by your side commemorating every holiday and momentous occasion is a cinch!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am posting about Tiny Prints' Holiday Cards I am getting $25 Tiny Prints gift card valid on http://www.tinyprints.com or 50 holiday cards - any size, any style from Tiny Prints. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this post.

Holiday Gift Guide 2011 Torani Flavored Syrups Review

2011-11-15T09:02:00.000-08:00

Since 1925, family-owned Torani has been crafting great tasting flavored syrups that coffeehouses and restaurants in over 40 countries use to make their flavored drinks taste so delicious. Coffeehouse and restaurant professionals choose Torani flavors because they are expertly crafted and made with the highest quality ingredients, like natural flavors and pure cane sugar. The sugar free flavors have no calories and are sweetened with Splenda. Now, Torani Flavored Syrups are widely available at retail so you can easily create authentic coffeehouse quality drinks at home.

You Can Flavor:

Coffees/Espressos/Lattes/Mochas
Hot Chocolates/Cocoas
Steamed Milk
Teas (Hot and Cold)
Italian Sodas
Lemonades
Sodas
Mocktails
Energy drinks
Smoothies
Snow Cones/Shaved Ice/Italian Ice
Torani Recipes

Torani Syrup Flavor Varieties: Torani flavored syrups are available in over 122 flavors, which include regular and sugar free varieties. Please go to www.Torani.com to see all flavors.

Where to Buy Torani Flavored Syrups:

Cost Plus World Market
BevMo
Walmart
Smart and Final
Most major grocery stores
Amazon.com (wide assortment of flavors)
Torani.com and Shop.Torani.com (widest assortment of flavors)

At Amazon right now they are having specials on Torani Variety Packs for the holidays!

I received two 750ml bottles of Torani Syrup, a recipe booklet, a special offer code to receive a discount on Torani.com, and 5 FREE coupons from SheSpeaks and Torani. The two bottles I received were the Hazelnut Syrup and the Sugar Free Pumpkin Pie Syrup to try out and review for free. These are both great for the holidays! I love them in hot chocolate and hot teas for this time of year because the drinks warm my belly. I am excited to try it with other recipes as well. The Torani Flavored Syrups all look like something you would see behind the counter of an expensive coffee shop, but they are priced reasonably too. I will definitely be trying more Torani flavors! The Hazelnut was my favorite flavored syrup that I have tried so far. I tried it with a mug of hot chocolate and later in a glass of eggnog and it was so delicious! It has a rich delicious flavor even without cream or milk that makes you feel like you are tasting some exotic treat. The Sugar Free Pumpkin Pie Syrup is really good when I am craving a pumpkin pie. It is calorie free because it uses Splenda and although I liked that fact I don't really care for the aftertaste of the Splenda in this flavor and I try to avoid artificial sweeteners. Otherwise it was very good and I would probably actually buy the regular Pumpkin Pie Syrup that they also have as a flavor choice once this one runs out.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: As a member of SheSpeaks I received two 750ml bottles of Torani Syrup, a recipe booklet, a special offer code to receive a discount on Torani.com, and 5 FREE coupons for free to sample and review for "Torani's Authentic Coffeehouse Flavor" Program. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 Widget

2011-11-11T11:54:00.000-08:00

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: By posting this widget on my blog I am getting a free Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 on DVD for review later on my blog. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this post.

The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher - Official Trailer

2011-11-09T10:48:00.000-08:00

I am a huge fan of Suzanne Woods Fisher and her Amish books! Here is The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher - Official Trailer. It is the first book in her new Stoney Ridge series! The official release date is January 2nd, but it’s available now to pre-order. Get more details on her blog.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am posting about The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher - Official Trailer I am entered to win a drawing for Amish books. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this post.

Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon When You Take the North "Poll"

2011-11-08T22:33:00.000-08:00

Melissa & Doug want you to tell them which of their educational toys you think is the best! Just click on the image below to place your vote in the North "Poll!" You'll Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon** to use at MelissaAndDoug.com just for voting!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am posting about the Melissa & Doug North "Poll" promotion I will be given a unique $25 coupon. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this post.

Shutterfly Family Photo Days and Photo Taking Tips

2011-11-03T11:07:00.000-07:00

The holidays are just around the corner and with that comes family photos. Let's face it sometimes it is just so difficult to get the perfect memorable shot of the whole family looking their best. In an effort to inspire and educate you on ideas on getting that perfect family photo early so you can place it into a fantastic card online, Shutterfly is having "Family Photo Days" throughout November. On their “Family Photo Days” website you can use the creative ideas on the website, share and discuss more ideas with others, and then take those ideas and making them your own. So get going and create that spectacular moment on camera then come back to Shutterfly because they have some great personalized Holiday Cards that you can put that photo into.

I have some great tips that I have found to be invaluable in taking the best family photos that I am going to share here with you now:

1. Plan ahead! Pick a day and time that isn't stressful for everyone. Make sure everyone can be available at the day and time picked and everything is set up and put together before the big day so no problems will arise. Children have their own times when they are at their best and happiest. Make sure to plug that into the equation too. Make sure clothing is set out the day before and haircuts are done a week before at least. Try to maintain your composure even if you are a little stressed because kids pick up on this easily and their reactions could derail the whole event. Arrive at the portrait shoot a little early with a clear, rested mind.

2. Lighting is very important. There are a lot of lighting techniques that professionals use. Shoot outdoor photos when the sun is low in the sky, either in the early morning or late afternoon so that the lighting isn't too bright or way too dark. If you are photographing in sunlight, try to position yourself so that the sun hits your subject from the side. You can also position your subject in front of the sun to give a great back-light effect, but don't let the sunlight flare in your lens because the contrast will be messed up. If shooting indoors use as much light as is available. The flash sometimes can make nasty shadows on the wall behind the subject. If this happens it is best to try to position the subject in from of a dark wall or getting them as far away from any walls as possible. No one person should stand out more than the others. You could also buy studio lighting for your own indoor setup or go to a studio that has one, but know that lighting is very important!!

3. If red eye or blemishes prevail, fix it with Photoshop or a paint program. Don't fret the small stuff. There are some awesome red eye removal and blemish editing techniques in a lot of photo software these days that quickly and painlessly get rid of unwanted red eye and blemishes.

4. Dress Code and feeling: Coordination, comfort, and simplicity is the name of the game. Too much print, pattern or color will take away from the faces in the photographs. Nice solid color shirts that match are the best and simplest way to go. Remember darker colors are slimming and generally more flattering. Comfortable clothing is better if the photo shoot is going to be a long one especially if there are young children involved. So go ahead and go casual! If; however, you do want to go fancier then try to get the pictures with the kids out of the way first so there isn't a lot of waiting in fancy uncomfortable dress. Know the feeling and theme you want to convey in the pictures ahead of time and make sure everyone participating knows and agrees.

5. Get creative with settings, props and backgrounds. There are some awesome scenic places that you could have as your background or setting, but sometimes getting everyone there is the hard part. Be creative and spontaneous. Sometimes the best photos could be set in your own backyard or home. A solid color sheet or large blanket could be used as a great backdrop. You could have your little one hug a favorite stuffed critter or ride a wooden pony or use a toy to get the child to look at you. Just think outside the box!

6. Take closeups and get close. Family is all about closeness :) So get everyone in the picture to squeeze together as close as comfortably possible. This makes the pictures seem more warm and inviting. Get closeups of individuals and couples too. It is all about capturing facial expression and the face is the greatest asset in your pictures! Sometimes blurring the background is a good thing because the main focus is on the subjects instead.

7. Make sure the subjects all have their eyes open, are smiling (unless you want serious, romantic, etc.), and look like they are having fun. Nobody likes a picture that someone: is squinting, looks like they are in a daze, looks like they are not having fun at all, or has their mouth wide open. We've all had pictures taken like this. Try to make the photos fun to dissolve boredom. Have the subjects jump in the air or tell them a funny joke to make them laugh. Don't be afraid to try something new to make it more fun. Make the subjects feel confident that they are having a positive experience. Don't tell them that it just isn't working, instead say, “Great, lets try a few more positions.”. Emanate positivity and it will be more enjoyable for all participating.

8. Take both formal and candid shots. Candid shots give more emotion, are more relaxed and usually can tell a story. Formal shots tend to be posed and manipulated more. Take both even if someone wants only one or the other.

I love the holidays! I love decorating, remembering the true meaning of Christmas, giving gifts like these neat Photo Gifts, sending out my yearly happenings newsletter, and personalizing cards with my family photos to send out to family and friends. This is truly one of my favorite seasons!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am posting about Shutterfly's Holiday Cards I am getting 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this post.

Wordless Wednesday Happy Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

I hope your Halloween was great! Here are my kids dressed up in their costumes. Delbin my oldest son was Bumblebee from Transformers this year, Jaedan made a very impressive Harry Potter, Teela was a pretty Belle from Disney's Beauty and the Beast and Zari was a delightful little Snow White. We had fun trick-or treating this year around the neighborhood and I was very happy that it wasn't too cold or raining this year because we were all on foot. If you click on the picture above it will make it bigger so you can see more of the details.

The only non store bought/reviewed costume was Jaedan's. My mom made the robe for Jaedan and he really doesn't need to wear glasses, but the low strength reading glasses my mom found really made the outfit too. He found the perfect stick to be the wand and wore his church clothes underneath the robe. I was proud of my contribution - a little of the dark side of a Covergirl SmokyShadowBlast Purple Plume eyeshadow stick for the scar and he was all set :)

Freschetta Proud to Support Pink Giveaway Winner

2011-10-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

The winner of the Freschetta Proud to Support Pink prize package is #9 Erin!

Congrats again to all the winners! I will contact each winner by email. If you did not have your email posted please post it here so I can email you! Thanks to all those who participated and don't forget to enter in my contests/giveaways that are going on now! I will also be adding more posts and giveaways soon so stay tuned!

*All winners are chosen by my True Random Number Generator.

Wubbzy and The Fire Engine Review and Giveaway

2011-10-25T09:49:00.000-07:00

My kids and I have had the great opportunity to review many titles from Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! and so when we were asked to watch and review their Wubbzy and The Fire Engine DVD we were so excited.

I loved how this DVD teaches kids good things like: friendship, teamwork and decision-making. These are all great messages! My kids love Wubbzy and they love firetrucks! My husband was a volunteer fireman for a while. You can see him all dressed up in his fire gear with me in my FB pictures. My husband loves to help people and I thought it was wonderful he could dedicate his spare time to do just that.

This DVD came out just in time for National Fire Prevention Week, which was on October 9. In this new collection of episodes, Wubbzy: has a fire engine adventure with Widget, delivers Daizy's doodleberry treats, re-builds a house with Ty Ty The Tool Guy (voiced by Ty Pennington of "Extreme Home Makeover") and much more! There is lots of singing, dancing and friendly firemen too! Climb aboard for tons of great entertainment that pre-schoolers and parents will adore over and over again in Wubbzy and The Fire Engine!

Includes These Episodes:
Wubbzy And The Fire Engine, What Would Wubbzy Do?, Ty Ty The Tool Guy, Mr. Unlucky, Wuzzleburg Express & Hangin' With Mr. Gummy

Bonus Features:
Coloring and Activity Sheets, Music Video & Sneak Peeks

BUY IT:
You can get the Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! Wubbzy and the Fire Engine DVD through Amazon.com at $11.99.

WIN IT:
Jaymie from Grand Communications, Inc. has generously offered another Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! Wubbzy and the Fire Engine DVD for one of my readers to win.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! website and tell me another product you would love and why.

Additional entries:
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4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

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8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. Let me know which one. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon: @WWWubbzy #WIN Wubbzy and The Fire Engine DVD #giveaway http://bit.ly/sWLZoQ
(Daily Extras are Available)

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Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday November 18, 2011 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Thanks to Grand Communications, Inc. for letting me know about this product and for sending me a free Wubbzy and The Fire Engine DVD to watch and review. This giveaway is also provided free from Grand Communications, Inc.. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Tips from The No-Cry Picky Eater Solution - Book Excerpts

2011-10-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

These tips are excerpted from The No-Cry Picky Eater Solution (McGraw-Hill) by Elizabeth Pantley. Please enjoy and check out all her books at No Cry Solutions.

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~
"It can be hard - almost impossible sometimes -to change your child's rigidly held eating habits. Instead of trying to overhaul every meal and snack at once, begin by making a few small changes, one at a time, toward a more nutritious diet. Pick just a few items to start with. Once these become routine, then change another couple of items. If you follow this process, you'll find that within a year you will have improved your child's overall diet significantly; and likely affected his lifelong eating habits."

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~
"Your attitude about food is critical to your child's developing outlook. It's no surprise that studies have found that parents who don't like vegetables have children who don't like vegetables. It's assumed that these parents don't serve many vegetables and treat them as villains when they do.

One study found that the more a child is lectured about the merits of eating vegetables, the more he assumes they will taste bad and the more he will resist even trying them -- children catch on quickly when parents are trying to sell a behavior they don't truly believe in or follow in their own lives. Conversely, several studies found that when parents eat more fruits and vegetables, their children do too.Once you realize that your actions are on display to your child as a prime tool for teaching lifetime beliefs, you can modify your own behavior to set the best example. The side benefit is that you'll be healthier too."

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"What's in your kitchen? A typical home contains plenty of healthy food, along with an assortment of snacks, desserts, and less healthy fare. An adult can sift through all this and decide what's best to eat, picking healthy options and judiciously choosing the right time for and amount of junk food and desserts.Children, however, will naturally be drawn to the tastiest option, with no guilt over the resulting choice. They will open the refrigerator or pantry and pick the most appetizing thing they see.

How can you help your child make better choices? The best way is to put the healthy foods where they can be seen easily and allow your child to choose between the nutritious options in view. Place desserts and junk foods on high shelves or in opaque containers. This way you can dole out the treats when and where you feel they're appropriate."

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"Health officials call soda liquid candy. It’s easy to see why: there is no nutritional value in soda and a twelve ounce can contains 9 to 12 teaspoons of sugar. A 20 ounce bottle contains 16 to 18 teaspoons of sugar! Having just one soft drink a day can increase a child’s risk for obesity by 60%."

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"Make family dinnertime a routine because your children who eat with their parents will eat healthier overall, have better social skills, be less likely to abuse alcohol and drugs later in life, and stay closer to you emotionally throughout childhood, and perhaps beyond. Family mealtime does not have to be formal, structured, or complicated to reap great rewards. A night when you eat sandwiches around the table while chatting about anything under the sun counts just as much as those more formal dinners.There are four things that shouldn't be brought to the dinner table: lectures, reprimands, rigid expectations, and demands for specific conversation.The key to success for the family dinner idea is regularity-four to five times a week or more. Families that make a practice of dining together in a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere reap the most benefits."

~~*~~*~~*~~*~~
“If your child is a picky eater, keep the correct goal in mind. The objective is NOT to make your child eat more food…but to be sure that food choices are healthy ones.”

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: By posting this information I am entered into the No-Cry Picky Eater BLOGGER Contest! My opinions do not necessarily reﬂect the opinions of Elizabeth Pantley of No Cry Solutions and vice versa. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this post.

Winnie The Pooh on DVD and Blu-Ray and Widget

2011-10-22T11:28:00.000-07:00

Return to the Hundred Acre Wood, for the latest adventure featuring the world’s beloved bear, Winnie The Pooh! Join Pooh, Tigger, Rabbit, Christopher Robin, Owl, Kanga, Piglet, Eeyore, and all of the classic characters you know and love when Walt Disney Pictures releases Winnie The Pooh on DVD and Blu-Ray October 25, 2011! Click on the Widget below to take The Pooh Personality Quiz with your child and download some awesome activities, recipes, coloring sheets, party ideas, crafts, games and more!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: By posting this widget on my blog I am getting a free Winnie The Pooh on DVD and Blu-Ray Combo Pack for review later on my blog. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this post.

Kashi TLC Peanutty Dark Chocolate Layered Granola Bars Review

2011-10-20T11:56:00.000-07:00

Kashi makes some of the most wholesome all natural cereals, snack bars, cookies, chips, crackers, waffles, frozen entrees, pizza and pilaf. Their products are all free of highly refined sugars, artificial additives, and unnatural preservatives. They also think that taste is important because great taste and healthy food don't always go hand in hand. They want you and your family to enjoy their foods so that you and your family will also eat better while eating Kashi products and know their foods are good for you and delicious.

I have tried many of their exceptional products including their GOLEAN Crunchy! Bars, TLC Cereal Bars, TLC Chewy Granola Bars, TLC Crunchy Granola Bars, GOLEAN Cereal, Heart To Heart Cereal, Kashi Squares cereal, TLC Pita Crisps, TLC Crackers, TLC Cookies, etc. My favorites so far are their Cherry Dark Chocolate TLC Chewy Granola Bars, Fire Roasted Veggie TLC Crackers, and Oatmeal Raisin Flax TLC Cookies. I would love to try their Kashi Granola Mountain Medley, Kashi Granola Summer Berry, Cherry Vanilla TLC Cereal Bars, Dark Mocha Almond TLC Chewy Granola Bars, Dark Chocolate Coconut TLC Layered Granola Bars, Happy Trail Mix TLC Cookies, all Kashi Frozen Entrees, and Mushroom Trio & Spinach Kashi Thin Crust Pizza. They all sound really good to me!

I was given the opportunity to try their TLC Peanutty Dark Chocolate Layered Granola Bars. These bars start with the chewy granola bottom that has peanut butter and peanut chunks along with other granola pieces. Then they spread a layer of real soft fruit mixed with gooey dark chocolate on the granola with a sprinkling of peanuts and dark chocolate pieces on top of that.

These bars are:
• Free of high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and unnatural preservatives
• Full of real nutrition: made with a blend of 7 whole grains, has 4 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein from peanuts and soy crisps

I liked the TLC Peanutty Dark Chocolate Layered Granola Bars, but they were not my favorite Kashi product. I am not a big fan of peanuts so I found myself picking them off the top of the granola bar and the chocolate that was mixed with the fruit was good and probably my most favorite part of the whole thing besides the granola, but it was a bit unusual too. My kids; however, loved them and I shared some with the neighborhood kids and they seemed to enjoy them as well. I also shared them with my moms group and they had mixed feelings on them. Some really loved the flavors and some didn't really care for them at all. The packaging was very nice and presented the product very well. However; if I had my way the individual wrappings for the bars could be in more of an environmentally friendly packaging. If you love peanuts, peanut butter, chocolate and granola then these will be just the ticket!

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BUY IT:
Kashi TLC Peanutty Dark Chocolate Layered Granola Bars retail for $3.89. Find them at most major grocery stores nationwide.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: I received this product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet program, May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer. As a Moms Meet blogger, I agreed to use this product and post my opinion on my blog. My opinions do not necessarily reﬂect the opinions of May Media Group LLC or the manufacturer of the product. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Freschetta Pizza Proud to Support Pink Review and Giveaway

2011-10-19T13:22:00.000-07:00

October is National Breast Cancer awareness month and many companies are doing their part to give and support research to find a cure. Freschetta the makers of really yummy pizza are participating with their Proud to Support Pink program where from September 25th - October 31st when you purchase specially marked packages of Freschetta pizzas and Artisan pizza crusts you will be helping them reach their goal pf $50,000 donation to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The specially marked packages have codes that you can enter at www.ProudToSupportPink.com.

Every code equals a dollar donated for breast cancer research. The website also has a place for people to share their stories about breast cancer. Each story submitted will be displayed on the website and on their Facebook page to inspire those who read them. Each week in October you can also have your hand at winning one of 50 pink iPod shuffles by entering a code or sharing the program on Facebook or Twitter. In addition 50 more iPod shuffles will be donated to 4 cancer centers around America to be given to breast cancer patients while being treated. Please help Freschetta make their goal!

I tried their wonderful pizza with my coupon and it is so tasty! They use only the finest of ingredients: real cheeses, tomato sauces made out of prime picked tomatoes and premium meats. Their pizza turned out superb in my oven and the crust was just perfect! So yummy!

WIN IT:
Freschetta has generously offered a Freschetta Proud to Support Pink prize package that includes: a coupon to try Freschetta pizza, 12 oz or larger and 2 pairs of Freschetta Proud to Support Pink earphones to giveaway to one of my readers (one pair to keep and one to give to a family member or friend to remind them of the cause).

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Freschetta website and tell me by commenting on this post what product you would like to try.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the right sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Freschetta Proud to Support Pink in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries)

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the right) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon #WIN Freschetta Proud to Support Pink Prize Package #giveaway http://bit.ly/of1oL5 (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like Freschetta on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Follow Freschetta on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday October 28, 2011 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. Only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Because I am a member of the Freschetta Fresh Connection Community I received word of this program and received free headphones and a coupon for free product to review. All information about the products I received from the media kit, the products and the website. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.