tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-262701852024-03-14T01:32:40.656-05:00We Owe How Much?!?Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.comBlogger319125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-85510836701160261002015-11-09T17:05:00.003-06:002015-11-09T17:06:11.614-06:00Heroines of the Old Testament Coloring Book Review<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ogRq5vZjawY/VkElNI1EgLI/AAAAAAAAUxw/SBgs9nIiPa4/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ogRq5vZjawY/VkElNI1EgLI/AAAAAAAAUxw/SBgs9nIiPa4/s1600/unnamed.jpg" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #262626;">Let your heart be encouraged and your
creative passions engaged as you color the lives of ten remarkable women
from the Old Testament in
<b><i>Heroines of the Old Testament. </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626;">Each unique section lets you reflect upon
their Biblical stories through illustrations that are both symbolic and
ornate. From Eve, the mother of mankind, enveloped in the flora of Eden,
to the opulent world of Queen Esther's Persian
Empire, these artistic designs enable endless hours of creative
coloring enjoyment and peaceful contemplation. Inspire your soul by
exploring the miraculous journeys of these heroines of faith and those
of Sarah, Rebekah, Rachel, Miriam, Rahab, Deborah, Ruth,
and Hannah.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626;">Includes: </span><span style="color: #262626;">•<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span><span style="color: #262626;">Geometric patterns •<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span><span style="color: #262626;">Portraits</span><span style="color: #262626;"> •<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span><span style="color: #262626;">Botanical design •<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span><span style="color: #262626;">Narrative scenes</span><span style="color: #262626;"> •<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"></span></span><span style="color: #262626;">Artist tips, and more!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626;">I received this coloring book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review of the product.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626;">I've been interested in the adult coloring craze and had been thinking about buying myself a coloring book, so this has been great to try! The pictures are lovely - some are simple, some are complex. I have found them very relaxing to color in the evening while winding down from a busy day. I'll admit when my 7 year old daughter asked if we could color together after she saw my book, I said "sure, but in one of your books..." I didn't want to share! The paper is heavy weight and very nice, nothing like the paper in cheap books for kids. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for something relaxing and special :)</span></div>
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Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-20063743478105897072015-08-22T08:00:00.000-05:002015-08-22T08:00:05.611-05:00A Sapphire Season Blog Tour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/lynn-morris/a-sapphire-season/9781455575619/">A Sapphire Season - Information </a><br />
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If you are a lover of Regency novels, this book is perfect for you!<br />
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Mirabella is a young lady who decides to set her own course regarding marriage. This story follows all the twists and turns (and unexpected hurdles) that happen as she sets forth on a journey without asking the Lord's guidance. When she finally realizes her error and is afraid her heart may be broken forever, God does bless her in wonderful ways.</div>
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As a homeschooling, busy mom of 3 little ones, I enjoy winding down at night with a good book. Although I love dramatic thriller types of books, I find they don't really help me wind down all the well, so they're not the best genre for me right now. I've found Christian romance fiction to be a great fit especially in this stage of life - not too complicated or heavy, not too suspenseful or hard to relax with, and usually clean & uplifting. Lynn Morris' new book fits these specific "requirements" of mine quite well. There is cute romance without any over the top or (too) edgy descriptions. </div>
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Although the plot may employ too many cliches for you, or you may be able to guess some of the plot before you get to it, there is still hope for you :) Lynn Morris does an exceptional job describing all sorts of things relating to the time period - all the fancy clothing, the buildings, life of the privileged! So, if you're interested in the time period, or Christian romance Regency fiction, please do yourself a favor and check out this new title! <br />
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I was sent an advance copy of this book for review purposes, but the information in this post is my own opinion. <br />
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<br />Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-28314254961554880382013-09-28T16:34:00.000-05:002013-09-28T16:36:10.096-05:00The Widow of Saunders Creek - a ReviewThe Widow of Saunders Creek<br />
A Novel<br />
By Tracey Bateman<br />
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Another novel from Tracey Bateman - a veteran author with more than 30 novels in print. I believe this was the second book of Bateman's that I've read. While she's not my favorite author, nor have the two books I've read (Tandem & A Widow of Saunders Creek) been written in my favorite fictional genre, I think she is a talented and creative author.<br />
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This book tells the story of Corrie Saunders - a widow haunted by her husband, Jarrod's, ghost? Does Jarrod visit Corrie in his family home? Does Jarrod mind that his cousin, Eli, is helping Corrie restore the home?<br />
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For anyone enjoying a little more "super natural" or perhaps even "less plausible" fiction, with a little love mixed in, I think this could be the book for you!<br />
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<i>I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review</i>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-45170150082662888482012-11-15T15:28:00.001-06:002012-11-15T15:29:06.047-06:00Swagbucks Holiday Hundreds Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.sbx-cdn.com/content/uploads/blogEntry/image50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.sbx-cdn.com/content/uploads/blogEntry/image50.jpg" /></a></div>
Swagbucks is working to make the holidays even more rewarding with their
Swagbucks Holiday Hundreds Giveaway. Starting yesterday, every transaction you make through the Swagbucks Shop
& Earn will get you an entry to win the $100 Gift Card of your
choice from the Swag Store! As soon as the Swag Bucks show up as pending
in your ledger, your entry has been earned! The first drawing will take
place on the 19th and will run every day through the 14th of December -
if you're the winner, Swagbucks will contact you at whatever email
address you have on your account. Entries are cumulative, so the more
transactions you make, the more entries you'll get. Travel Category is
excluded.<br />
<br />
Haven't joined Swagbucks yet? <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/ajlanser">Sign up today</a> and enter the code HOLIDAY100s to start with 100 Swag Bucks of your own! <br />
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<br />Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-6943957420747773882012-07-25T12:57:00.000-05:002012-07-25T13:06:01.064-05:00Finding Our Way Home - Blogging for Books ReviewFinding Our Way Home<br />
A Novel<br />
Charlene Ann Baumbich<br />
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I really enjoyed this book! The two main characters couldn't be more different, although they end up having many similarities. The book is set in MN which is fun since I'm a MN girl! The plot was interesting, heart-wrenching and heart-warming. Although there's no mystery or intrigue (really a favorite of mine - especially in contemporary literature) I highly enjoyed this story of renewal. The story may not have overtly Christian messages (the women try to lean on their own strength, they have a "good luck charm" they put "faith" in, etc.) but it was light, clean, and easy to enjoy.<br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" height="175" scrolling="no" src="http://www.waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggingforbooks/reviews/ranking/19644/short:1" style="border: 0;" width="180"></iframe>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-71062129777056371762012-04-09T17:05:00.002-05:002012-04-09T17:11:16.572-05:00He is Risen!!!<div style="text-align: center;" class="row"> <p style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Resurrection Hymn</span></p><p><span style="font-size:78%;">Keith Getty, Stuart To</span><span style="font-size:78%;">wnend </span></p> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> See, what the morning, gloriously bright,<br />With the dawning of hope in Jerusalem;<br />Folded the graveclothes, tomb filled with light,<br />As the angels announce Christ is risen!<br />See God’s salvation plan, wrought in love,<br />Borne in pain, paid in sacrifice,<br />Fulfilled in Christ, the Man, for He lives:<br />Christ is risen from the dead!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n19BBLexGjM/T4NeWF5tLCI/AAAAAAAAHgk/-_bLE5HSwhI/s1600/4.8%2BEaster%2B%252810%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n19BBLexGjM/T4NeWF5tLCI/AAAAAAAAHgk/-_bLE5HSwhI/s320/4.8%2BEaster%2B%252810%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729526884579748898" border="0" /></a><br />See Mary weeping, “Where is He laid?”<br />As in sorrow she turns from the empty tomb;<br />Hears a voice speaking, calling her name;<br />It’s the Master, the Lord raised to life again!<br />The voice that spans the years, speaking life,<br />Stirring hope, bringing peace to us,<br />Will sound ’til He appears, for He lives,<br />Christ is risen from the dead!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgXXisg1Nh8/T4NeV1oJgfI/AAAAAAAAHgc/ByActTAQf0w/s1600/4.8%2BEaster%2B%252845%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MgXXisg1Nh8/T4NeV1oJgfI/AAAAAAAAHgc/ByActTAQf0w/s320/4.8%2BEaster%2B%252845%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729526880211141106" border="0" /></a></span><br />One with the Father, Ancient of Days,<br />Through the Spirit who clothes faith with certainty,<br />Honor and blessing, glory and praise<br />To the King crowned with power and authority.<br />And we are raised with Him, death is <span style="font-weight: bold;">dead</span>,<br />Love was <span style="font-weight: bold;">won</span>, Christ has <span style="font-weight: bold;">conquered</span>.<br />And we shall reign with Him, for He lives,<br />Christ is risen from the dead!<br /></div>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-37838001070226809582012-03-09T18:06:00.006-06:002012-03-09T18:23:23.556-06:00Not This Time - Blogging for Books ReviewNot This Time<br />A Novel<br />By Vicki Hinze<br /><br />This is the third book in the "Crossroad Crisis Series" (which I had never heard of), but since it's called "a novel" I hoped I'd be safe starting in the middle of the series.<br /><br />Although the book started off a little slowly for my taste (likely because I didn't recognize any of the characters and was busy playing "catch up" to the history), after about the 10th chapter I was sucked in and couldn't get enough.<br /><br />I ended up staying late to finish the book (which has a much stronger/intriguing ending than its beginning) which says a lot these days when I'm still not sleeping through the night thanks to an adorable 9 month old who also doesn't sleep through the night...<br /><br />The plot was thick. The story wasn't unbelievable. The element of surprise was good.<br /><br />I will be requesting the earlier books from our local library soon!<br /><br />If you wouldn't mind taking a second to "rank" my review, that will help me to continue to receive books! Thanks :)<br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review</span></span><br /><iframe src ="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/bloggingforbooks/reviews/ranking/16784" width="459" height="135" scrolling="no" allowTransparency="true" style="border:0;"></iframe>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-80648259463688893012012-03-02T07:40:00.003-06:002012-03-09T17:18:31.741-06:00Seventh Generation "Lorax Approved" Diapers<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMfAGIwWqY8/T1AlsY3qe0I/AAAAAAAAHe4/5PTfEgML5_A/s1600/The_Lorax-2-WEB.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 258px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMfAGIwWqY8/T1AlsY3qe0I/AAAAAAAAHe4/5PTfEgML5_A/s320/The_Lorax-2-WEB.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715109371653552962" border="0" /></a>CONGRATS TO THE WINNER - SARAH O!!!!!!<br /><br /><br />Tomorrow is Dr. Seuss' birthday! Bekah has really been enjoying his books lately (although she calls them all "Cat in the Hat" books instead of Dr. Seuss books... oh well).<br /><br />Recently I was excited to receive a package of <a href="http://bit.ly/SevGen">Seventh Generation's Free & Clear Size 3 diapers</a> (for Sofie) and a copy of Dr. Seuss' book "The Lorax" (for Bekah). Having never read the book or used the diapers, this was a great package to get on our doorstep :)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">In partnership with Universal Studios’ motion picture debut of Dr. Seuss’s </span><em style="font-style: italic;">The</em><em style="font-style: italic;"> Lorax</em><span style="font-style: italic;"> also known as the “Speaker for the Trees” who brings environmental truth and ecological hope to all, Seventh Generation will feature limited edition Lorax prints on all our diapers and training pants. These prints are intended to remind parents and caregivers of the lessons of </span><em style="font-style: italic;">The Lorax,</em><span style="font-style: italic;"> and encourage family reading and environmental awareness while creating a few smiles. Discover (or rediscover) Dr. Suess’ </span><em style="font-style: italic;">The Lorax</em><span style="font-style: italic;"> as you read about his legacy and messages of sustainability with your child, and inspire a new generation of environmentalists starting with your family!</span><br /><br />Typically we use cloth diapers during the day when we're home and healthy and Pampers Swaddlers at night (until they're too small... then we switch to Huggies). I've never purchased Seventh Generation products and was curious to see how these diapers compare to my favorite Swaddlers.<br /><br />Although they're not-bleached (so they look "grungy" compared to the stark white pampers), they are cute. Bekah's rather jealous that Sofie gets the Lorax on her diapers and she doesn't!<br /><br />Some information about these diapers from Seventh Generation:<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ambZ8HRZs3I/T1AlsnleiEI/AAAAAAAAHfE/WZal5xFDsF8/s1600/44062_sz3_H_lorax.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ambZ8HRZs3I/T1AlsnleiEI/AAAAAAAAHfE/WZal5xFDsF8/s320/44062_sz3_H_lorax.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715109375603804226" border="0" /></a><br />*NEW Overnight Diapers are absorbent enough to keep your baby and bedding dry through the night or during prolonged travel<br />*Free & Clear diapers have improved more flexible tabs that provide even better fit<br />*Free & Clear training pants have an absorbent core made with more renewable, plant-based materials. They also feature stretchy, tear away side panels for a better fit and added convenience, as well as inner leak barriers for superior leakage protection<br />*Seventh Generation Free & Clear baby care products do not contain chlorine, fragrance, petroleum-based lotions or latex, and all Free & Clear products are also hypo-allergenic<br />*Starting March 2, you can register for a free <em>The Lorax</em> scrapbook with the purchase of any three Free & Clear diaper products, until supplies last<p>All in all these diapers hold up REALLY well, are QUITE flexible and I haven't had a leak yet! I would probably purchase them again when I'm in need of disposable diapers!!!</p><p>How would you like to win your very own pack of diapers and a copy of "The Lorax"?!</p><p>Please leave a comment below answering this question:</p><p style="font-style: italic;">Which of the Seventh Generation Free & Clear Diaper products are you most interested in trying with your family in an effort to become more eco-conscious?<br /></p><p>You may receive a bonus entry if you follow my blog or subscribe via a reader (just let me know how you read in your comment - a second comment from your first please!)</p><p>The drawing will be held sometime during naptime on Friday, March 9th and I'll contact the winner for your mailing information. Please be sure to have your email visible in your comment or on your blog profile! Thanks :)<br /></p><p><a href="http://on.fb.me/SevGenFbook">Find Seventh Generation on Facebook</a></p><p><a href="http://bit.ly/SevGenTwitter">Find Seventh Generation of Twitter</a></p><p style="font-style: italic;"> <span style="font-size:78%;"><strong>Disclosure: The </strong><strong>Seventh Generation Diapers prize pack, product and information have been provided by Seventh Generation through MyBlogSpark.</strong></span></p><p style="font-style: italic;"><br /></p><p style="font-style: italic;"></p><p style="font-style: italic;"><br /></p>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-513803241069499732012-02-12T09:52:00.006-06:002012-02-12T10:09:58.077-06:00Recipe Re-vamp<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WmFy8CVJCns/TzfiK7oN4nI/AAAAAAAAHec/9NclV0buxXw/s1600/Golden-Flax-on-Web-color-ba.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 224px; height: 196px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WmFy8CVJCns/TzfiK7oN4nI/AAAAAAAAHec/9NclV0buxXw/s320/Golden-Flax-on-Web-color-ba.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708279730148336242" border="0" /></a><br />Since regularity isn't always so... regular at our house, finding ways to get healthy oils and lots of fiber into our bodies seems to be pretty important! I know we all need more fiber and DHA than we normally get and since I'd rather add them in through our food than through supplements (although Mike and I do take Cod Liver Oil...) I've been experimenting with flax seed - I purchased a box of Hodgson Golden Milled Flax Seed a few weeks ago and have been adding it into our foods...<br /><br />...1/4 t mixed into Sofie's baby cereal<br />... 1/2 t sprinkled on Bekah's PB sandwiches<br />... 1 t mixed into my Malt-o-Meal<br /><br />This morning I decided to give it a try in an actual recipe (as a substitution for some of the fat) and it worked pretty well! I also changed up the flour from all basic white flour to half whole wheat. Although the muffins are a little more "bready" than normal, they're still really tasty and have a few health benefits included in them now that they didn't before!<br /><br />Here's my <span style="font-style: italic;">Revamped Poppyseed Poundcake Muffins</span> Recipe<br /><br />2 c flour all purpose flour<br />2 c whole wheat flour<br />2 T poppy seeds<br />1 t salt<br />1/2 t baking soda<br />2 c sugar<br />14 T butter (2 sticks, one with 2 T cut off)<br />6 T ground flaxseed<br />4 eggs<br />2 c Vanilla yogurt (want to use greek next time - didn't today)<br />2+ t vanilla<br /><br />Preheat oven to 400<br />Combine flour, poppyseeds, salt, and baking soda in a small bowl<br />In a large bowl cream butter, flaxseed, sugar<br />Beat in eggs one at a time<br />Beat in yogurt and vanilla until well blended<br />Stir in flour mixture until moistened (THICK batter!!!!)<br />Spoon into muffin tins<br />Bake 15-20 minutes (16 mins is perfect in my oven!)<br />Makes a BIG batch (3-4 dozen depending on the size of your muffins). They freeze really well after baked - thaw overnight and you've got a tasty breakfast!<br /><br />Yummy!!<br /><br />How have you made little changes with big benefits in your kitchen?Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-38471391495212369102012-01-29T14:27:00.003-06:002012-01-29T14:35:13.104-06:00God Gave Us Two - A Children's Book ReviewThis sweet little picture book covers the days leading up to Little Cub's family having a new baby. Little Cub is a little nervous about the new baby - will she still be special, will the baby bug her, what will she do....?! Her parents always reassure her that "God gave us you and now we'll have two!" <br /><br />Although Bekah (our three year old) is already a big sister, she really loves reading the story about Little Cub waiting for her baby. The pictures are sweet, the text isn't too long or involved and she finds the little surprise at the end super exciting.<br /><br />The binding of the book and the artwork are well done. All in all, even though it's a little children's book (so a little corny for grown-ups) the story is sweet and reassuring.<br /><br />For more information:<br /><a href="http://lisatawnbergren.com/">Lisa Tawn Bergen (author) Website</a><br /><a href="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781578565078">Waterbrook Multnomah Site (book information)</a><br /><a href="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781578565078">Buy Now</a><br /><a href="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/author-spotlight.php?authorid=75646">Author Spotlight</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">FTC disclaimer: I received this book for free from </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/" target="_blank">WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> for this review.</span></span>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-82904098230943289592012-01-10T13:42:00.003-06:002012-01-10T13:50:37.835-06:00A Sound Among the Trees - A Book ReviewA Sound Among the Trees<br />A Novel<br />By Susan Meissner<br /><br />I LOVED this book. It was full of enough intrigue (are there ghosts? is everyone crazy?) and history to really keep my attention through the entire book.<br /><br />I do enjoy Christian Fiction - Romantic/Historical/Amish... I like the fact that these types of books are easy to read, clean, and often believable. "A Sound Among the Trees" was the first Romantic/Contemporary/Historical Fiction book I believe I've read in a long time that was all of these things.<br /><br />Way to go Susan Meissner, I really enjoyed this book!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review</span></span>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-2226071897516549342011-11-28T21:57:00.005-06:002011-11-28T22:07:14.716-06:00No Wonder They Call Him the Savior, A Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T5TlkfcGb7I/TtRZJIxCmjI/AAAAAAAAHak/FUb97IYb3A8/s1600/_240_360_Book.516.cover.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T5TlkfcGb7I/TtRZJIxCmjI/AAAAAAAAHak/FUb97IYb3A8/s200/_240_360_Book.516.cover.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680263043527907890" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">No Wonder They Call Him the Savior</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Discover Hope in the Unlikeliest Place</span><br />Max Lucado<br /><br />I don't think I've ever read a Max Lucado book before (well, at least not an adult book, my daughter loves his kid's books). I'm not a big non-fiction fan. Reading is a great way for me to relax and usually non-fiction isn't my favorite relaxation technique. I was pleasantly surprised by this book, though. I found it easy to read and thought provoking. Although other reviewers have been disappointed in the "happy, God loves you, grace for all, tolerance" message they claim the book holds, I didn't feel that way. I don't think this book was written for a non-Christian audience who is seeking a Savior. I found it an encouraging and interesting way to see what my Savior did for me and all of us on the cross. If you are looking for a way to keep the cross real in your life, for encouragement, or for an interesting look at our Lord, I would highly recommend this book!<br /><br /><blockquote style="font-style: italic;"> <p><span style="font-size:78%;">I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <<a href="http://booksneeze%c2%ae.com/">http://BookSneeze®.com</a>> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <<a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html">http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html</a>> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></p> </blockquote>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-35027560308593458122011-09-26T16:16:00.004-05:002011-09-26T16:25:32.867-05:00Life Everlasting - A ReviewLife Everlasting<br />An Alexia Lindale Novel<br />By Robert Whitlow<br /><br />It's been a LONG time since I read the first Alexia Lindale novel so I figured that this would be a good test to see if they're truly "novels" or if they're really part of a series where you <span style="font-style: italic;">need </span>to read them in order...<br /><br />It was okay reading this book without remembering much of the first (although I remembered more and more as the book went along), but I'm not sure if I'd qualify it as a "novel" though. Many references go back to the first book, but they're not really that important...<br /><br />This book is a good mystery with Whitlow's signature legal plot (although there's less courtroom action than other books he's written.) There's also a lot of musical information in this book - which I loved - but which could be a bit over the head of someone who's not interested in classical piano literature.<br /><br />All in all I thought this was a fun, relaxing read and if you enjoy Whitlow's other books, you'd probably like this one too!<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I received this book for free from Booksneeze for this review</span>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-28103208270917946052011-07-05T20:16:00.003-05:002011-07-05T20:21:54.007-05:00Blogging for Books Review #2The second book I reviewed for Blogging for Books was<br /><br />Mine Is the Night<br />By Liz Curtis Higgs<br /><br />As a huge fan of Christian fiction (and often I find myself a huge fan because it tends to be "light" or "easy" reading) I thought this book would be right up my alley. When it came I was surprised that the book is 442 pages long! It also has a lot of Scottish vocabulary written throughout the pages. The length and unfamiliar language made it a more difficult read for me, but I still greatly enjoyed it (even though it took my brain power to read!)<br /><br />This is a novel, but I believe you could meet the characters in other of Higgs' books. I didn't feel that it was necessary to read the other stories, but sure would like to now!<br /><br />The story is believable, the characters are so very lifelike, and the tale is one of beautiful detail.<br /><br />All in all, if you enjoy a bit heavier Christian fiction, this is the book for you! If you're interested in Scottish traditions and history, this is also the book for you!<br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review</span></span>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-39463910433402371902011-03-28T17:17:00.002-05:002011-03-28T17:20:02.199-05:00My Newest AdventureThis pregnancy I've been diagnosed with gestational diabetes.<br /><br />I'm happy to be getting my blood sugars under control, hoping that this will help keep away a hypoglycemic baby with a NICU stay and a High Blood Pressure mommy with an added hospital stay!<br /><br />But, it's challenging. <br /><br />I like sweets. Juice... Eating when I want, what I want, how much I want.<br /><br />But learning to eat healthier will not only benefit baby, but will hopefully help me feel more tip top and healthy too!<br /><br />Yesterday was a rough day - my numbers were WAY too high and I felt pretty terrible. Today I've been super picky and am doing a bit better. <br /><br />Sometimes it's frustrating. I don't always get it. <br /><br />But it's going to be worth it!Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-31080306992252054422011-03-21T17:28:00.005-05:002011-03-28T17:24:01.860-05:00Blogging for Books Review #1I have recently joined another book review program (since I love to read, like to blog, and love to get free books, why not, right?!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tandem-Novel-Tracey-Bateman/dp/0307457176/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1300746643&sr=8-2">Tandem</a><br />Tracey Bateman<br /><br />This is a vampire book.<br /><br />I've never read a vampire book.<br /><br />I enjoyed this vampire book.<br /><br />Actually, it's not at all what I expected. When I started into the book and learned that it had a vampire character (or two or three or none... hmmm....) I was a little concerned. But, the story, the plot, the intrigue were quite good. And there were no gory vampire parts!<br /><br />I would recommend this book if you're looking for a lightly suspenseful, easy read in the coming days and months!<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review</span></span>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-57746115279516938862011-02-21T07:43:00.002-06:002011-02-21T07:43:00.603-06:00Happy Birthday Swagbucks!<span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" >If you're already a "Swagger" feel free to disregard this post...<br /><br />If you're still on the fence - there's not a better time to jump into the fun!<br /><br />I've earned over $125 worth of Amazon gift cards in the time I've used Swagbucks - seriously it's not complicated - just regular searching!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:100%;" >Swagbucks (the best place on the web for <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/ajlanser" target="_blank">free stuff</a>) is turning 3, and the celebration they have planned for the 28th is going to be HUGE! It'll feature a bunch of Swag Codes, a new look and feel for the Swagbucks Blog and the launch of two new features, one of which will redefine the way you use their search function. You definitely won't want to miss it, so be sure that you're on the site bright and early the morning of the 28th for your chance to earn big and be a part of the biggest birthday celebration on the web! <span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 20px;"><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />Swagbucks.com is a site where you can earn 1,000s of free products for doing the things you do every day. Whether it's searching the web, watching videos, playing games, shopping or more, we've got a way for you to be rewarded with <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/ajlanser" target="_blank">free stuff</a>. No strings. No gimmicks.</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;">"<br /><br />Oh, and for you brand new swaggers - I've got a special code which will earn you an extra 50 swagbucks when you sign up!!</span></span> Just enter the swag code <span style="font-weight: bold;">3rdBirthday4</span> when you register!<br /><br />Happy Birthday Swagbucks - thanks for sharing the love :)Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-81929935654320290602011-02-04T17:42:00.003-06:002011-02-04T17:43:14.658-06:00If Only I Had the CameraI could snap a shot of what I see behind me -<br /><br />Bekah is laying on the floor with a throw pillow from the couch and a warm blanket. She's got a little dolly next to her and is reading a book.<br /><br /><3 HER!!!Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-12471510705671070022011-01-29T19:28:00.001-06:002011-01-29T19:30:25.843-06:00Another Cleaning FavI like soaps that smell tasty great<br /><br />I like soaps that don't leave my hands cracked and red<br /><br />I like the idea of antibacterial soaps, but after hearing so much about super germs, I'm not so sure.<br /><br />So, we switched to natural Tea Tree Oil Soap in the bathroom - a natural antibacterial :)<br /><br />What about you? Fancy, cheap, antibacterial, not, natural... What kind of soap floats your boat?Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-86711541943151023102011-01-28T16:43:00.003-06:002011-01-28T16:47:31.405-06:00Clean, Clean, CleanAfter weeks of morning sickness and then a month of regular sickness, the second trimester energy infested Amy has started the nesting/cleaning crazies!<br /><br />Today the entire bathroom was disinfected and cleaned<br />All the toys that could were washed in the tub<br />All the toys that could were washed in the washing machine<br />The floors were cleaned (until the stick vac died - I've forgotten how to sweep thanks to my birthday gift!)<br /><br />Now, not all the dishes are done, not all the clothes are done, but boy, does the house smell nice.<br /><br />While cleaning today I got to thinking about how my cleaning products vary between seasons...<br /><br />When it's not "sick" season, I typically clean with vinegar and water. It's cheap. It's green. It cuts the hard water we have in this house. I like it. I also typically use rags instead of paper towels. I also like my Green Works (or something) cleaner...<br /><br />When I'm lazy I love the clean up wipes. They're so easy... and quick...<br /><br />When I'm freaking out about germs I find myself cracking out the Clorox and the paper towels. Good stuff I tell ya, good stuff...Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-57156292756385633352011-01-13T11:35:00.005-06:002011-01-13T11:46:26.046-06:00More Online GamesI'll admit it - I'm a sucker for online flash games.<br /><br />And now there's an even more addicting place to play - on <a href="http://swagbucks.com/?cmd=gn-rft&rb=249645&cmp=33&cxid=11111-1&to=%2F%3Fcmd%3Dsb-games%26reg%3D1">Swagbucks </a>I can now play <a href="http://swagbucks.com/?cmd=gn-rft&rb=249645&cmp=33&cxid=11111-1&to=%2F%3Fcmd%3Dsb-games%26reg%3D1">flash games</a> for free and win bucks randomly!<br /><br />If you're already a Swagger, great. If you're not, even greater - you can sign up today or tomorrow and use the code SBGames and you'll earn an extra 30 bucks just for signing up - double the bucks to start! <br /> <br />Enjoy the games and the bucks :)<br /><span style="color:#888888;"><br /></span>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-46601597464477052502010-12-13T21:41:00.003-06:002010-12-13T21:45:44.150-06:00A Full Gamut of FeelingsSome days I can't believe I'm pregnant but then some days I can't believe I'm not 26 weeks pregnant instead of almost 16<br /><br />Some days I'm so excited to be having another baby that I forget I lost one a few months ago but other days I just wish I was able to meet that little guy<br /><br />Some days I can't remember what it's like to even have a newborn and then on other days I just want the baby here so we can be a family of 4<br /><br />Some days I wish I was almost done being pregnant and then other days I realize that means life will be even different<br /><br />Some days I'm positive that I don't want to find out "what we're having" since we didn't with Bekah and the surprise was fun but then other days I freak out wondering what happens if we have no appropriate clothing if we have a boy - although, really, does it matter since everything we have is heavy and wintery warm and this baby will be born in the spring?<br /><br />ACK.Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-14155172147907868362010-12-08T17:23:00.002-06:002010-12-08T17:28:24.231-06:0015 Weeks and CountingThis morning I had my 15 week OB Appointment.<br /><br />I was really nervous... I've been feeling a little better, having some weird aches and pains, and still can't really feel much baby movement. <br /><br />Baby's heartbeat is a strong 154. Mommy's weight is going up a tiny bit (I know, I'm supposed to be thrilled and I guess it is good considering I had lost a bit in the first 11 weeks...). Everything is measuring fine. My blood pressure even wasn't too wacky at 138/70... I've seen worse!<br /><br />Now we just have the diabetes concern... After being misdiagnosed/undiagnosed with Bekah (thanks to my hypoglycemia and a nurse who was a little confused at how a blood sugar issue would affect a blood sugar test...), my doctor wants to be on top of it bright and early this time.<br /><br />So, at my next appointment I get lots of fun - the 1 hour glucose test (whoopie...), the 19 week ultrasound, AND it's all on my birthday so Mike will take the morning (possibly the whole day actually) off and we'll enjoy!<br /><br />Actually, I found out today that Mike wants to come to most (all) of the appointments with this pregnancy like he did with Bekah - I figured he'd be "over" that, but I'm really excited he wants to come :)Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-18507772797139086712010-11-18T20:57:00.003-06:002010-11-18T21:16:23.105-06:00How to Save $172.30 a Month<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_f2SfoT10NLs/TOXoaSAWEwI/AAAAAAAAHNY/1X6aH11aGBM/s1600/10.19%2B%25289%2529.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_f2SfoT10NLs/TOXoaSAWEwI/AAAAAAAAHNY/1X6aH11aGBM/s320/10.19%2B%25289%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541090454756791042" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Disclaimer: Now, this really isn't the safest, funnest, or smartest way to cancel a debt. We're definitely not advocating a car accident to assist you in your financial freedom. But, we are choosing to look at a frustrating, scary, and dangerous situation as something that turned out for the good of our family in the long run!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f2SfoT10NLs/TOXoZyi6O8I/AAAAAAAAHNQ/Sywb1EL0Scw/s1600/10.19%2B%25281%2529.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_f2SfoT10NLs/TOXoZyi6O8I/AAAAAAAAHNQ/Sywb1EL0Scw/s320/10.19%2B%25281%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541090446311832514" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></span><span>October 19, 2010<br />7:30pm<br />One block from home<br />After a long and exhausting day of morning (all day) sickness and an almost 2-year old who was in one of those moods, my darling hubs sent me out with a book to a coffee shop for a little respite. He was going to put the munchkin to bed and let me have the evening away.<br />I decided to run to Target to pick up Bekah's birthday gift and then to head to Panera for a nice, warm drink and a bit of alone time.<br />As I stopped at the 4-way stop a block from our house, I thought to myself that the car coming from my right was just going a bit too fast. But, I still drove into the intersection since it was my turn and there was a stop sign there that would obviously keep the car from running into me. WRONG<br />As soon as I started into the intersection I realized the car wasn't about to stop and I tried to steer away and brace for impact (is that all possible in -2.5 seconds!?)<br />My car was immediately smooshed, things came flying at me from the seat and passenger door, the lights/electronics shut off, and I sat there going ACK!<br />I hopped out of the car and called Mike. No, not the police, Mike... Don't ask. I was obviously a little shaken up! He didn't answer - he was putting Bekah to bed... That's when the pizza delivery boy witness asked if I was calling the police. Right, police... 911... that's what you do in an emergency!<br />So after talking with the 911 lady and the witness (who gave his number and then had to go since we were all okay and he had a pizza to deliver!) and looking over to be sure the other driver (lady and 3 year old was in the backseat) looked okay, I called Mike again - screaming into the answering machine "ANSWER THE PHONE NOW!!!" He wasn't thrilled - he said "I'm putting Bekah down" and I informed him to get her up, bundle her up, and bring her up the block because I'd been hit!<br />Then a wonderful lady police officer arrived - she tried to speak with the other driver, but she didn't know any English. She called a friend to come and translate. Then the police asked me if I was okay or in need of medical attention. At first I said I was fine, just sore, but then I realized I was 7 weeks 6 days pregnant. After just suffering a miscarriage a few months earlier, I was super nervous when I remembered my little guy! <br />EMTs were there quickly, as was Mike and Bekah. We all climbed in the ambulance to get checked out and they thought baby was fine, but did recommend I go to the OBGYN the next day. <br />After the ambulance, we got to the car and pulled out what we could - stroller and car seat (which has since been replaced, but we needed SOMETHING until we could get a new one!), purse, garage door opener. The firemen there said they were sure my car was totaled. The wrecker driver agreed when he came.<br />Then the nice police officer sent us all home as it was dark and we had little ones with us - she delivered $1600 of tickets to the other driver and brought the paperwork to our house at the end of her shift. The tickets were for failure to stop, driving without a license, an driving an uninsured car.<br />Our insurance agency has been great to work with - and very concerned about my health as well as the baby's.<br />The ultrasound I had the next day showed a perfectly growing little one - who probably had no clue the trouble mommy had been through!<br />When all was said and done, the insurance was able to pay off our loan and give us just enough to purchase a new car! Well, it's not new - it's a few years older than our red car, but it's in great condition. Mike's parents have been looking to sell the car for a while and asked the exact price we got from the insurance claim! We have another Honda in the family now - a 5 speed manual - it's getting easier by the day for me to drive!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f2SfoT10NLs/TOXock6mh4I/AAAAAAAAHNg/N3tJgH-KY64/s1600/10.19%2B%25284%2529.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_f2SfoT10NLs/TOXock6mh4I/AAAAAAAAHNg/N3tJgH-KY64/s320/10.19%2B%25284%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541090494192715650" border="0" /></a>I'm definitely still wary about 4-way stops. Just this morning I got a little freaked out when a guy didn't stop BEHIND the sign and instead crept towards me... Ack! I'm a more defensive driver now which is a good thing I suppose.<br /><br />I do think that after an accident they should print signs for your car "I was hit at a 4-way stop - back off" and "I drive with no license, insurance, can't speak English, and just totaled my car and another lady's" as warnings for others.<br /><br />I am so thankful for the Lord's protection over me and our new baby. A car is just a car. Not a big deal. The fact that I had no one riding in that seat is huge. Thank you Lord for your blessing and hand!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span>Ameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26270185.post-10246935154693214912010-11-04T11:24:00.004-05:002010-12-08T17:29:53.587-06:0010... A Beautiful Number10...<br />The age I first felt "grown up" and now, looking back, I have to laugh<br /><br />10...<br />The number of finger and toe nails my precious Bekah needs clipped frequently<br /><br />10...<br />A full piano studio<br /><br />10...<br />Weeks I've been carrying a new little L baby<br /><br />10...<br />Weeks I've been sicker than I would like to ever be again<br /><br />10...<br />Weeks of excitement, nervousness, happiness, tension<br /><br />10...<br />Weeks towards being a mommy of twoAmeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11112690178783136215noreply@blogger.com3