And the winner is....
Kim V! Kim was chosen by a random number generator!
Sorry for the delay in choosing a winner, but the huge snowfall I got made me forget all about the book giveaway!
March 4, 2009
February 22, 2009
Book Review and Giveaway!!!!! By Reason of Insanity by Randy Singer
After reading Randy Singer's book, Directed Verdict, I was eager to have the opportunity to read more of his work.
By Reason of Insanity is excellent! Mr. Singer catches court room drama at its most intense. When a person was accused of horrific crimes, I just knew it had to be a set up, but when I found out the rest of the story, I was blown away! I didn't even see it coming! This is a story of justice, sacrifice and a gift from God. It is fast paced, extremely well written and will keep you turning pages until you reach the satisfying ending!
So if you would like to read this awesome book and you live in the U.S., go ahead and leave a comment below and I will have a drawing bright and early Monday, March 2, 2009.
You can just say something like...hey, I'd love to win, or you can leave a more in depth comment to make me laugh or ponder (those are always appreciated)! I will choose the name using a random number generator!
August 3, 2008
And the winner is....
I would like to apologize for the delayed drawing. When I went to do this on Friday night, I couldn't get to my website. It wasn't until late Saturday morning, that I discovered the problem was being caused by Site Meter. And then it was time for me to leave. I didn't get home until after 10, so the drawing still didn't take place....
But, better late than never, right! So, drumroll please...the Random Number Generator says:
Congratulations, Noreen who was commenter 92 and who shows that even if you stop by near the end, you can still win the prize!
Wish I had more sets of Kathy's books to give away! Be sure to look for them on Amazon or at your library or at your local bookstore! You won't be disappointed in them!
July 28, 2008
Signed Book Giveaway: Seaport Suspense Series by Kathy Herman
Guess what, it is time again for bloggers to unite and participate in a week of Bloggy Giveaway! This is a great time for all (except maybe our clicking fingers and our families that we ignore while surfing through great contests) and I am happy to be part of it.
This month, I have read and reviewed Kathy Herman's Seaport Suspense Series.
I have reviewed each book and if you are so inclined, you can find those reviews by following the links below:
These four books are amazing stories. All of them tackle tough issues that we face everyday and wrap those up in suspenseful stories with a large dose of inspiration. Through these books, you get to watch a family deal with tough issues and how their relationship with God helps them do it. I can't say enough about how much I have enjoyed reading these four books and how I have been inspired by them.
To win, all you have to do is comment below. Sorry, but this contest is only open to U.S. residents. I will pick a winner at random using the random generator on Friday evening, August 1st at 6 pm EST. Good luck! And remember, if you don't win or can't wait, click on my Shelfari book shelf and order your copies today.
Now, that you have signed up here, head over to Bloggy Giveaways for tons and tons more contests to enter! Get your mouse finger ready!
July 16, 2008
...And the Winner Is
The winner of the Welkening and Guardian of the Veil is Jen at My 3 Boys and I! Way to go, Jen!
Here is the lucky Random Drawer...choosing lucky number 11!
July 11, 2008
Book Review and Giveaway! Guardian of the Veil by Gregory Spencer
Sinus infections are glorious things. They make me fell like moving and I tend to get lots of reading done while I am laying on the sofa trying to breathe! So even though I just finished The Welkening and reviewed it two days ago, now I have finished the second in the Three Dimensional Tales series and want to share my thoughts on Guardian of the Veil.
I enjoyed this second book. The first book ended in such a way that that could have ended it. But endings are often merely beginnings and as we find in Guardian of the Veil, the teen misfits really only began to find themselves in The Welkening. The Guardian of the Veil introduces new surprises, new characters and new relationships. The teens begin to grow in their new found strength, much as a Christian grows after taking the first step in committment to Christ. We like to think that by making that acceptance, everything becomes right immediately, but it does not. It takes time, we have to grow. We have to learn and in reality will spend the rest of our lives growing to be better people. The Guardian of the Veil is all about that growth. About how we often take a step forward and a step backward. But, I don't want you to think it is a preachy tale. I didn't find it to be so. I found it to be an intruiguing fantasy story that pulled me in and made me think. It had me rooting for the characters and empathisizing with them.
I have greatly enjoyed these two books. I am not sure if there will be a third in the series, but I hope so. In the meantime, I would like to share these two books with one lucky reader:) Yep, I did mention giveaway and I know it has been awhile.
So, here's what you do...I don't care where you live...you are eligible for this giveaway. That's right, if you live on a remote island in the South Pacific, as long as you can get mail delivery, I will mail these two books to you if you win. So, just leave a comment below, and I would love to know why you would like to win (are you a fantasy buff? Have my reviews intrigues you? Do you want to give these books as a gift to someone?) I will hold a random drawing next Wednesday evening (July 16), sometime after 6 pm EST.
BTW, these books are in good condition. The first in the series is an advance uncorrected proof that I received in a giveaway and was not available for sale. The cover got bent a little on it...just today. Sorry abou that. The other book is in great condition. Both are paperback.
So, what are you waiting for? COMMENT!!!! And tell your friends too! If you do blog about it, come by and leave me another comment so I will know you blogged about it and I will give you a second chance in the random drawing!
April 26, 2008
A Mending at the Edge Contest Winners
Sorry, I forgot to do this drawing last night! Congrats to the following winning commenters:
Number 6: cmaxwell
Number 7: Nikowa
Sorry that I don't have a copy for everyone!
April 23, 2008
Contest Winner
I wish I had a copy of Do Hard Things to give each of you who commented, but the Random Generator said that Ginnie is the one who gets my giveaway copy of this book. Congrats! And for those of you who didn't win, check out your library or buy a copy of the book for yourself.
April 21, 2008
Book Review and Giveaway: A Mending at the Edge by Jane Kirkpatrick
I was recently granted the opportunity to do a review of Jane Kirkpatrick's Change and Cherish Historical Series ahead of the impending release of A Mending at the Edge which is the third and final book in the series.
I love historical fiction. I love reading a fine story that is woven from the threads of history. It helps me to get a better feel for the period of history being written about. Much better than just dry history texts. I was tickled to get the opportunity not just to read the third book, but I was also sent the first and second books in the series.
Jane Kirkpatrick first learned of fiesty Emma Giesy from a quilting book. She became intrigued and her research of this woman pioneer led to three stories that spanned the life of a woman who wanted to be different and wanted to leave her mark on the world.
In A Clearing in the Wild, we meet the players of this historical saga. We learn about the communal society they live in, its principles, and a bit about its inner workers. Emma is 16 and eager to be married and begin her life. The object of her devotion is much older than she is and he is instrumental to the colony in bringing in new recruits to join their communal living. He is also being groomed to be the next leader of the colony. But all things change and life so seldom goes in the direction we are expecting. Emma becomes the first and only woman of the Bethel colony to head with a group of scounts out West. The railroad is coming and Keil (the leader of the community) wants them to move to a more isolated area where their communal ways won't be questioned or intruded upon. Following these scouts across the country, being with them as they went through their hardships, watching as Emma grew and learned and began their family...Jane Kirpatrick had me right there with them every step of the way. I could sense the tension, smell the evergreens and hear the stillness that only comes when one is deep inside of a forest.
Continue reading "Book Review and Giveaway: A Mending at the Edge by Jane Kirkpatrick" »
April 16, 2008
Blog Tour and Book Giveaway: Do Hard Things by Alex and Brett Harris Foreword by Chuck Norris
Book: Do Hard Things
Author: Alex and Brett Harris
Dates: April 15 - 18
Summary:
With over 10 million hits to their website TheRebelution.com, Alex and Brett Harris are leading the charge in a growing movement of Christian young people who are rebelling against the low expectations of their culture by choosing to “do hard things” for the glory of God.
Written when they were 18 years old, Do Hard Things is the Harris twins’ revolutionary message in its purest and most compelling form, giving readers a tangible glimpse of what is possible for teens who actively resist cultural lies that limit their potential. Combating the idea of adolescence as a vacation from responsibility, the authors weave together biblical insights, history, and modern examples to redefine the teen years as the launching pad of life and map a clear trajectory for long-term fulfillment and eternal impact.
Written by teens for teens, Do Hard Things is packed with humorous personal anecdotes, practical examples, and stories of real-life rebelutionaries in action. This rallying cry from the heart of revolution already in progress challenges the next generation to lay claim to a brighter future, starting today.
Author Bio:
Alex and Brett Harris founded TheRebelution.com in August 2005 and today at age 19 are the most popular Christian teen writers on the Web. The twins are frequent contributors to Focus on the Family’s Boundless webzine, serve as the main speakers for the Rebelution Tour conferences, and have been featured in WORLD magazine, Breakaway, The Old Schoolhouse, and the New York Daily News. Sons of homeschool pioneer Gregg Harris and younger brothers of best-selling author Joshua Harris (I Kissed Dating Goodbye), Alex and Brett live near Portland, Oregon.
My Comments:
This book will change everything and it gives me great hope! I was so tired of hearing from my teens and from others around me how it was okay for teens to be disrespectful, lazy, off just doing kid things. I didn't grow up that way and I was a teenager once. My parents didn't beat me. If anything my mother, who had been overworked as a youngster, wanted me to not have a lot of responsibilities at home. But on my own, I chose to do things for her because I loved her. She worked hard all week, I didn't want her coming home and spending her Saturday working cleaning the house. I think that because we give children excuses that we are robbing them of their future productivity.
Does this book sound good to you? Well, then, why don't you leave a comment below? I have one copy to give away! Sorry, this giveaway is for U.S. addresses only. Just leave a comment and I will have a random drawing on Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at 6 p.m. Good luck!
If you can't wait to see if you will win Do Hard Things, go ahead and purchase it from Amazon.com now. Heck, why not purchase extra copies for the parents and teens in your life!
March 19, 2008
2 Contest Winners
For the Gloves in a Bottle contest, I have one winner (I didn't get 20 comments, maybe next time). The Random Number Generator chose number 7...so Raven won the prize!
For the Experiencing the Resurrection contest, the random number generator spit out the number 5...which makes Charlotte the lucky winner!
Congrats! Sorry there isn't more for everyone!
March 17, 2008
Multnomah Books Blog Tour: Experiencing the Resurrection (and a Giveaway)
Book: Experiencing the Resurrection
Author: Henry and Melvin Blackaby
Summary:
What does the resurrection of Christ really mean for us? What does it reveal about the heart and mind of God? And what real differences can the miracle of the resurrection make in your life today?
Discover answers to those and other questions as you examine God’s Word with this companion study guide to the book Experiencing the Resurrection by Henry Blackaby and Melvin Blackaby.
Packed with practical notes, advice, and questions for reflection, this highly interactive guide—ideal for small group or individual use—shows you how to witness Christ’s resurrection in and through your life. Each chapter of the book is explored in a flexible one-week format with “life change objectives” that arise from applying the truth for each day to your life.
Author Bio:
Dr. Henry Blackaby, president emeritus of Blackaby Ministries, is the author of more than a dozen books, including the best-selling classic Experiencing God. He has spent his life in ministry, serving as a music director and as a senior pastor for churches in California and Canada. Today he provides consultative leadership on prayer for revival and spiritual awakening on a global level. He and his wife make their home in Atlanta, Georgia.
Dr. Melvin Blackaby coauthored with his father, Henry Blackaby, the Gold Medallion winner Experiencing God Together. He travels extensively as a conference speaker. He and his wife and their three children live in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada, where he serves as senior pastor of Bow Valley Baptist Church.
You may copy this book from Amazon.com or you can try to win a copy from me!
I did not get a chance to read this book yet, but it does look interesting and I would like to pass on a copy to one lucky commenter! So point your mouse, click, and leave a comment. This giveaway is open to U.S. readers only. I will have my drawing Wednesday, March 19th at 6 pm. Maybe I can even get it to you before Easter on Sunday. Anything is possible!
Gloves In A Bottle - A Shielding Lotion Giveaway
I was recently sent a bottle of Gloves in a Bottle to test out and review.
Gloves in a Bottle is one of the new shielding lotions that has arrived on the market in the last couple of years. A shielding lotion is better than a moisturizer because it actually helps your skin behave the way it should. With a moisturizer, you trick your skin into thinking your body is producing enough moisture and if you miss a moisturizer application, your skin is often drier than it was before. But with a shielding lotion, it is like you are creating an invisible barrier between your skin and the world. So when the deeper layers produce moisture, they hit that barrier and the moisture stays in instead of evaporating or being wiped off. Also the 'bad stuff' (detergents, etc) bounces off. Check out these cool graphics (pictures really are worth a thousand words)!
Continue reading "Gloves In A Bottle - A Shielding Lotion Giveaway" »
February 20, 2008
Book Launch and Giveaway: Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear by Sharon Dunn
UPDATE, the random number generator spit out the number 5. Cindi Hoppes is the winner!
This last week, I had the opportunity to read the newest book by Sharon Dunn. The title is very catchy! Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear...has you wondering right away, doesn't it? This is the second book in the Bargain Hunter's Mystery series.
From the back cover:
Another murder mystery for the Bargain Hunters Network - only this time, one of them is a suspect!
Ginger and her husband, Earl, are in for a wild ride in Calamity, Nevada, along with the other BHN ladies - college student Kindra, mother-of-four Suzanne, and sassy senior Arleta. They came to town for the Inventors Expo and some outlet sohpping, but instead they endure lost luggage, broken air conditioning, and a long line of people angry at hotel owner Dustin Clydell. With the inventors Expo and the Squirrel Lovers convention both in town, the Wind-Up Hotel has somehow overbooked.
Before the night is over, a man in a teddy bear costume is found dead, the Inventors Expo is canceled...and the authorities want to talk to one of the BHN ladies! What could possibly go wrong? Once again, the Bargain Hunters swing into sleuth mode to solve the murder - and this time, clear one of their own. Along the way, Ginger discovers something even better than a bargain.
I will be giving away one copy of this book to one randomly drawn, lucky winner! I will mail this internationally, so everyone can join in the fun! Just comment below! I will hold the drawing on February 27th at 6 p.m. eastern time.
If you can't wait for the giveaway or if you aren't one of the lucky winners, you can purchase the book from Amazon.com
February 13, 2008
Book Giveaway: The Ultimate Life by Jim Stovall
Update: By random number generator (Jack), the number 2 was chosen and Lesha was the lucky winner! I have contacted her to let her know.
A month or so ago, I won the book "The Ultimate Life" by Jim Stovall. This is a wonderful book and it is the sequel to "The Ultimate Gift." I had not read "The Ultimate Gift" but this book stands on its own and after I read it, I borrowed the movie based on the first book and both are wonderful.
In "The Ultimate Gift" a young man is bequeathed an unusual set of gifts that change his life and the lives of those around him. In "The Ultimate Life", the other members of the family are protesting the will and Jason has to prove that he has understood the gifts he has been given and can pass them on to others. It is a story that we can all benefit from. A story that points out how we can make a difference in the world around us and we don't have to have a lot of money behind us to do it. We just have to pay attention to it.
So, I want to pass this book on so that it may bless another reader. What I would like for you to do is comment and tell me what you think would make The Ultimate Life. This is open to all readers around the world. God bless. And good luck! I will have the random drawing on Wednesday 20th at 6 p.m.
February 11, 2008
Pay It Forward 365 Giveaway
Jen at My Three Boys and I is playing a fun Pay It Forward Game. Since I joined in the fun at her blog, I am spreading the joy here on mine.
Here's how it works:
- Anyone with a blog can join
- The first three people to leave a comment on this post will receive a gift from me. I haven't decided yet what the gift will be. I will be looking for neat items though.
- I will send the gift in the next 365 days
- In return you have to pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog
- See how easy that is?
In honor of the Pay It Forward ideal, I’m quite happy to send overseas, so don’t let that stop you!
That’s it!! Let the comments roll!!
Win Snow Buddies DVD
If you have enjoyed the Air Bud craze and the Air Buddies movies, you and your family is sure to enjoy the Snow Buddies movie! And the only thing better than finding a good family movie, is getting that movie for free! So, eMoms at Home.com is working to provide you with the best! Visit their website for an opportunity to win one of five copies of the Snow Buddies DVD! All you have to do for a chance to win is to comment. But if you want even more opportunities to win, blog about the contest too.
My daughter loves Air Buddies, so I have my fingers crossed for her on this one!
And, after you have commented on this contest at eMoms at Home.com, be sure to look around. There is lots of great stuff there!
February 8, 2008
Sweet Valentine Giveaway
Do you want a chance at receiving these yummy items in your mailbox? Well go visit I'm a Mom, Deal With It! and follow her directions! Hurry, the giveaway ends on February 11th!
February 7, 2008
Book Giveaway: Not Your Ordinary "Mom" Book by T. Suzanne Eller
UPDATE: Gloria at Saddeyezz Scraps & Snaps won this week's drawing! Way to go Gloria!
This is another book I received to review from a publicist, but since I didn't choose it and my book shelf is overflowing, I am passing it on unread to one lucky winner! All you have to do is comment below and I will have a random drawing on February 13th at 6 pm. The drawing is only open to U.S. addresses. If you live outside the U.S. and you want to pay the difference in postage (it is usually around 2.13 to ship to the U.S. via media mail), sign up and we can work that out.
From the press release:
Being a mom is a great joy and a great responsibility. But what if you have a painful past, a background that didn't include a good role model for parenting? What if your experiences have given you an unhealthy view of motherhood? How can you be the parent you want to be without dragging along your history?
Good luck!
Book Giveaway: Keeping His Pants Until He Gets Home by Joyce S. Oglesby
Update. Kathy B. was the winner of the random drawing! Thanks for all who entered! I have contacted her via email!
I received a brand new copy of this book from a publicist, but I don't have time to read it and my books are overflowing, so I am passing it on to one lucky winner (and just in time for Valentine's Day too! Well, almost, you probably won't get it before Valentine's Day, but anything is possible.
This giveaway is open to U.S. citizens. If you are outside of the U.S. and want to pay the difference in postage (I will pay what I would normally pay to ship in the U.S. via Media which runs around 2.13), I will be glad to have you join in the fun! Just contact me and let me know where you live and I can let you know what the cost would be to ship it to you.
All you have to do is comment below. I will choose the winner with a random number drawing! I will hold my drawing on February 9th at 6 pm...that way, maybe you will get it in time for Valentine's Day!
From the press release:
Pastor's wife Joyce S. Oglesby inspired to write relationship book out of a heavy heart for couples doomed for divorce without some sort of intervention. Her small town of Corydon, IN is buzzing about the controversial cover and title. Written similarly to the 1970s classic, Total Woman, Keeping His Pants On...Until He Gets Home equips woment to affair-proof their marriages. Maintaining a passionate love in marriage has become more urgent than ever before. The demands on today's woman can distract her from fulfilling her husband's sexual needs. Losing focus of this vital responsibility has many women facing the maladies of matrimony. Joyce says, "You're either too tired, too stressed, too fat, too flat-chested, too mad, too sad, too depressed, too dirty, too clean, too selfish, or it's just too much trouble. All this can add up to too little too late!" Her warning is that husbands can soon become distracted, leading to some form of an outside physical or emotional affair, pornography, or other avenues of release. The book talks about the dangers of boredom and staleness, and how passionless relationships leave couples unfulfilled, and makes husbands prime targets to temptation.
Sweetheart Valentine's Giveaway
Today I made a new friend. Don't you just love meeting new people in bloggy land? Well, not only is Kristin interesting, but she is currently having a Sweet Giveaway!
"Kristin over at An Ordinary Life is having a short but sweet Valentine's Giveaway. It starts on February 6th and ends February 9th, 2008 at noon PT. All you have to do to enter, is post about her giveaway on your blog and leave a comment on the giveaway post. Please be sure to leave a valid email address with your comment."
Trust me, this is one sweet giveaway that you don't want to miss, so go check it out!!!!!
February 6, 2008
Bloggy Giveaways Winners
The time has come for me to announce the winners for my various giveaways from last week! So here goes! Good luck as i spin the wheel!
First- three winners for the Reluctant Smuggler:
#32 - Shay
#42 - Pam
#51 - Michelle B.
January 29, 2008
I Think I Am Coming Down With Something...
My eyes are blurry, my head is throbbing, my fingers are shaking...
What?
You recognize these symptoms?
It's not the flu???
It's because I have been spending every spare moment over at the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival?
Goodness me...I should have realized! Well at least the children are fed. And the laundry is done. And I have blogged a little and read my favorite blogs and even worked on the baby blanket some...so I haven't spent all of my time on my computer...
I am up to number 400. I haven't entered all 400, only the ones that looked like something my family could use. Only another 250 to go at last count...I can do it, I know I can!)
Anyone else feeling shaky? Having fun? Ready to never look at another contest again (NAH!)
Time to get back at it!
And just in case you missed it, I have 7 giveaways myself right now! Go to my main page, scroll down just a little until you see contests on my right sidebar and enter, enter, enter!
Have fun!
January 28, 2008
Book Review and 3 To Giveaway! Reluctant Smuggler by Jill Elizabeth Nelson
Welcome to Bloggy Giveways! This week, hundreds of people will be posting giveaways over at Shannon's Giveaway blog and hundreds upon hundreds, dare I say thousands will visit! Have fun!
Reluctant Smuggler by Jill Elizabeth Nelson is the third book in a series To Catch a Thief. This book is a story of adventure, archaeology, love, constant action, exotic locations and intrigue. I have not read the previous two books in this series, but this fast-paced novel stands very well on its own.
Desiree Jacobs runs a company that provides security to high profile locations (like antiquity museums). Her fiance, Tony Lucano is a FBI agent who loves his job. The two have plans to be married, but their jobs and the intrigue they constantly find themselves in makes it hard to plan a wedding. Desiree is a strong heroine. No wimpy girl here. She is smart, persistent and courageous. Tony loves this woman completely, though he does worry about her safety. This story winds its way through Mexico City, the Yucatan, Cancun, Boston, and New York. There are multiple stories on and this fast paced tale will grab you early on and keep you reading to the very end. Everytime I put it down, I found myself picking it up again to see what was going to happen next.
And one of these three copies can be yours for the small investment of a comment below. Yep, all you have to do is leave me a comment and live in the United States. If you live outside of the states, you are welcome to pay the postage if you would like to try winning this item. I will have my drawing on February 6th at 6 pm. If you want a second chance, be sure to blog about the contest and let me know that you have shared the information with others. Good luck!
Book Review and Giveaway: Awaken My Heart by DiAnn Mills
I love historical romantic fiction. I enjoy a book that transports me to a different time, where the characters bring to life a time that I don't know much about and make me feel as though I am there. DiAnn Mills has written such a book: "Awaken My Heart". This book takes place at the turn of the 1800s in the colony of Texas. There are handsome vacqueros and beautiful senoritas. The story was captivating. One of the things i liked about it the most was how DiAnn used her heroine, Marianne Phillips, to share with the reader how simple faith can be. And she used Marianne to show the reader what it means to trust in God, how to witness to others, and how to live a prayerful life.
Continue reading "Book Review and Giveaway: Awaken My Heart by DiAnn Mills" »
Chit, Chat and Chew Cookies - A Yummy Giveaway!
Welcome to Bloggy Giveways! This week, hundreds of people will be posting giveaways over at Shannon's Giveaway blog and hundreds upon hundreds, dare I say thousands will visit! Have fun!
A couple of months ago, I was fortunate enough to win a 3 pound package of yummy Chit, Chat and Chew chocolate chip cookies. These cookies are melt in your mouth awesome! And they are worth the money you are paying for them, just for their tasty goodness, but there's more! Chit, Chat, and Chew cookies have an additional attraction. They come with cards that are designed to get your family talking.
Now I know that that isn't always a stumbling block for families (and for you, I repeat, these cookies are delicious!). But if you have kids that are finding spending time with their videos games, listening to their iPods, or watching TV more interesting that chatting with you, these cards may be a way to break the ice. With fun, non-confrontive questions, your children and you can learn more about one another and enjoy those yummy cookies (did I mention yet how yummy they are?)
Another wonderful use of these cookies is that they can be sold as a profitable fundraiser. Chit and Chat Enterprises will split the cost of the items with you 50/50. So if the product is 20.00, you get 10.00 and the company gets 10.00 for each kit you sell. That's a good deal!
And if cookies aren't your thing, they have some new products coming soon.
Now for the good part you are waiting for...Chit Chat Brands is offering a mixed cookie kit to one lucky, random commenter here on my blog. You will get Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter and Oatmeal cookies! Just go visit Chit Chat Brands and come back and let me know one other type of cookie mix they sell.
This prize is availalbe to United States Addresses only. I will make my random drawing on February 6th at 6 pm. Good luck!
Etsy Giveaway Courtesy of ZudaGay
Welcome to Bloggy Giveways! This week, hundreds of people will be posting giveaways over at Shannon's Giveaway blog and hundreds upon hundreds, dare I say thousands will visit! Have fun!
A month or so ago I signed up for a contest to win a lovely piece of jewelry from ZudaGay. I didn't get picked by the random number generator, but I had bookmarked her website as I wanted to return and buy one of her many beautiful products. Well on the 15th, I purchased two of the items I had my eye on. Mainly because her jewelry is one of a kind stuff and I didn't want to take any more chances or someone else buying the pieces I wanted!
I got a beautiful rose cross pendant and another pendant which has been calling to me. I love flowers and so does ZudaGay.
And they arrived so quickly! I purchased them on Thursday and they arrived on Tuesday (and Monday was a holiday). They were packed very well and in the box was a sweet surprise...a lovely heart that Zuda Gay had made! See how beautiful they all look? (My camera really doesn't do them justice).
Zuda has been working with Polymer clay for around twelve years or so. She has always enjoyed being creative no matter what the medium. She is a proud member of the Polymer Clay Artists Guild Of Etsy, Etsy Illinois Street Team, Boomers and Beyond Etsy Street Team and Christian Artists Street Team.
Skin MD - Review and 3 Giveaways!
Welcome to Bloggy Giveways! This week, hundreds of people will be posting giveaways over at Shannon's Giveaway blog and hundreds upon hundreds, dare I say thousands will visit! Have fun!
Do you struggle with dry skin? I do. During the winter time it is the worst. I have a couple of knuckles on my right hand that stay dry and 'scaly' no matter what I do and I have had my fingers crack open because of the dryness. That is very painful. So when I was given the chance to try a revolutionary shielding lotion called Skin MD, I was delighted.
Skin MD isn't just a moisturizing lotion, it is a shielding lotion. What does that mean, you ask? Well, it means that when you put Skin MD on, it is protecting your skin like a glove that keeps away the things that dry out your skin (water, chemicals, cold). It is also keeping in the natural moisturizers that your skin is producing. Skin MD research shows that when you use regular moisturizers that they actually trick your body into thinking your skin is moist and your body stops producing natural moisturizers. Then if you stop using the moisturizers, you can end up with drier skin than before. I have seen this happen a bunch of times myself.
The directions on Skin MD are to apply it every 2- 8 hours in the beginning and after a couple of days, Once every 12-24 hours. This is exactly how it worked for me. I put it on three or four times the first days, and I have been putting it on twice a day since. The dry spots on my knuckles are gone and that is a major thing because no other lotion has been able to get rid of them.
A Twisted Silver Giveaway!
Welcome to Bloggy Giveways! This week, hundreds of people will be posting giveaways over at Shannon's Giveaway blog and hundreds upon hundreds, dare I say thousands will visit! Have fun!
Have you heard of Twisted Silver Jewelry? The people at Twisted Silver are at the top of the heap when it comes to creating fantastic funky, modern jewelry! Even celebrities agree! I own a pair of their Diva Earrings and have my eye on other pieces I wish to purchase in the future. And the people at Twisted Silver give the best customer service! When I contacted Tina and told her about the Bloggy Giveaway Carnival, she was very excited about taking part and sharing an amazing piece of their jewelry with one of my readers.
So, without further ado, here it is! The Align Convertible Necklace.
The Align Convertible necklace is made of brass and copper, and this piece can be worn as a double-wrapped necklace (as shown), or as a long and lean necklace, as a belt, or as a super-funky multi-wrap bracelet! It's value $100.
Isn't that awesome!? And that's not all! Tina is offering a 20% discount to anyone who purchases 100.00 or more worth of jewelry from Twisted Silver between January 28th - February 15th! Isn't that cool? Especially with Valentine's Day coming up? (HINT, HINT HUBBIES and BOYFRIENDS!!!) All you have to do to receive your 20% discount is purchase $100.00 or more worth of jewelry from Twisted Silver and type in CARNIVAL (all caps) as your coupon code when ordering. And for ordering $100.00 or more worth of jewelry, you get free shipping too! (U.S. Only). How cool is that!!???
So, now that you are excited about the chance to win the Align Convertible necklace and about the great discount and free shipping, you are obviously wondering what do you do to win! It's simple. Go visit Twisted Silver and come back and tell me what piece(s) you would like to get (remember Valentine's Day is coming and you never know who might be reading your answer. The drawing will be on February 6th at 6 pm. Good luck!
January 21, 2008
Book Review and Giveaway: Small Inventions That Make a Big Difference
Update: I spun the random generator and the number 2 popped up, so Mommy Cracked is the winner of this drawing! Congrats and enjoy!
Somewhere, someday when I was at a book sale, I picked up the book "Small Inventions That Make a Big Difference" This book was published by the National Geographic Society in 1984. So in on sense it is dated. There are no mentions of any of the inventions made in the last twenty four years. And the photos are from the 70s and 80s and you will absolutely love the photo of the 'modern' word processor. But all of that aside, the information is still interesting and valuable.
The first part of the book talks about how inventions come about (some through years of work and effort, some by accident). It explains the patent process. Then the end of the book is inventions A-Z. We really enjoyed learning about everthing from the invention of Aspirin to the Zipper. There are great pictures, each description is just a couple of paragraphs long and the kids stayed very interested in it. I am sure that you could find other such interesting books by heading to the bookstore or library, and you may prefer to find one more updated, but I wanted to offer you the chance to receive this book for free from me! This book is in very good condition, is hardback and is 104 pp long. If you would like to learn more about how many common items were invented, I think you and your child would enjoy this book!
Just comment below. I will hold the drawing on January 23rd at 6 pm. It is open to United States addresses only unless you want to pay the postage to ship overseas if you win.
Good luck!
January 18, 2008
Visit Laura Williams Musings
Hey all, if you have vistied my friend Laura in the past, you will know that she has awesome contest posts! Everyday, she provides links to contests all over the blogosphere. I have won a bunch of stuff because I read her contest post every day and enter several a day. She also provides recipes, product reviews, and just bits of life posts.
Well Blogger, owned by Google, has tagged her as a spam blog and has locked her out of her blog. She can't post new entries. But she has found a way around this dilemma. If you want to check out her blog for the first time or if you are a regular, you will find she has her posts up and running, but they are not being picked up via RSS or email fees.
So, go over to Laura's, get your contest fix and show your support!
January 15, 2008
Bloggy Giveaways Carnival January 28th-February 1st
I don't know if you have heard yet or not, but something very exciting is coming for the last week of January! And I mean very exciting! Shannon, over at Bloggy Giveways is hosting a giveaway carnival. The last time she did this, there were over five hundred participants! That means there were over five hundred chances for you to win and there were some awesome prizes!
So get your finger ready, because the fun will be starting soon. And I am planning on having five giveways that week myself! So you will definitely want to be stopping here. I will have items from Twisted Silver, ZudaGay, Chit, Chat, and Chew, Skin MD, and 3 copies of Reluctant Smuggler by Jill Nelson, a newly released book. So bookmark this site and come back the last week of January. You will be glad you did!
January 13, 2008
Books In The Mail
I love to read and this past week I received several books in the mail. Some I received due to winning contests and some I received to do reviews on them. Most of them you will see in the future as giveaways because as much as I love reading books, I love sharing good books!
So here is what showed up for me this past week:
Awaken My Heart by DiAnn Mills. This is an inspirational romance and I will be reviewing it the last week of January or the first week of February, so keep an eye out!
From the back cover: Marianne Phillips, the daughter of a wealthy rancher, has never agred with her father's harsh treatment of the poor mestizos who first inhaited the colony of Texas, when rebels kidnap Mairanne, in hopes her father will trade back their land for her freedom, she realizes her loyalty lies with her abductors, not her father, who plans to marry her off to the don of a nearby estated.
Armando Garcia is the locals' reluctant leader, but his people revere and depend on him. Knowing that without his leadership they'd be forced from their land, Armando accepts his role, but does not approve of the latesst attempt to manipulate the enemy. When he learns that Marianne actually speaks his language, of her loyalty to his people, and of the faith that keeps her strong, Armando is faced with a difficult decision. Will his newfound love keep him from leeting her go? Or will he set her free and risk losing their land forever?
January 7, 2008
The Great Escape
Whoa...What's happening? Who's lifting up my nice cozy abode?? Hey! Put me Down! What's this place? It's dark and smells funny! It's an earthquake! Everything is shaking! And what's that beeping sound? Oh goodness, more shaking! Is this the end of the world?
Slamming...rumbling...ahh...stillness...sort of...At least this thing I am in is still, but I still sense that I am moving. I have got to get out of here!
Nibble, Nibble. Chew. Gnaw. Nibble.
I can see light!
Nibble, nibble, chew, gnaw. Nibble.
Ah ha...more light
Nibble, nibble. Chew, Gnaw. Nibble.
I'm free!
Scurry, scurry into a dark corner. I sense I am still moving, but things are slowing down a bit.
There are those loud bangs and funny sounds again. Strange, alien sounds.
More loud sounds. I crouch down, trying to make myself as small as possible. I can see one of the large ones pick up the small box I escaped from and pointing to my fine escape hole. They start looking around. I scrunch up even more.
The sounds fade, there is light behind me...I scurry towards the light...only to see...a large nose and whiskers and big eyes! What is that monstrous thing...it's wagging tail, it's dripping tongue? It is looking straight at me as if judging whether or not I would make a tasty snack
I'm being lifted again!
"What's going on? Does the monster have me? I'm going to die!" I am cupped in the alien's hand as a voice says, "You are going to be called 'Lucky'. You are the luckiest hamster in the world because Beethoven was just getting ready to have you for lunch."
I am not sure what those strange sounds meant, but now I am behind bars where no huge monsters with dripping tongues can get at me. Safe and sound. I guess I am pretty lucky!
The above story is a true one and none of the names have been changed. Lucky and Beethoven have both passed on, but their story lives in our hearts forever! I have written this for Scribbit's January Write Away Contest.
December 31, 2007
2 Book Reviews: Chocolate Beach, A Dropped Stitches Christmas and a GIVEAWAY!!!!
UPDATE! Congrats to Abiga whose name came up the random drawing for this contest! I have contacted her to let her know she has won! Keep coming back. I hope to have at least one contest every week!
Okay, let's get the New Year started off right! I have read two books in the last few days and I really enjoyed them. So I am going to pass them on to one lucky reader (in addition to a third book that I haven't read....). Anyone is free to enter, but if you live outside of the United States, you would have to pay postage if you win. Wish I could afford the postage to send overseas, but my ship hasn't come in yet!
One winner will get all three books! This contest will end on January 9th at 6 pm. All you have to do is comment. If you want a second chance, then feel free to blog about my contest or about your favorite romantic moment and let me know so I can come read it!
So, what's available...
1st: I received this book in the mail on Saturday. It was part of an effort to get me to join the Love Inspired book club. I am swimming in books right now, so I am going to pass this book on. The book is a heartwarming inspirational romance by Irene Hannon. The title is Rainbow's End. It is part of the Love Inspired Series.
New Habits for the New Year
5 Minutes for Mom will be sharing ideas about New Habits for the New Year and they will be offering giveaways right along with those suggestions. The fun begins January 1st and lasts until January 8th! Go check out their tips and join in the fun!
Do you have any New Year's Resolutions this year? I have some. I plan to lose weight. I plan to spend more time in The Word. I plan to get back to work reading my HTML books and web design books.
There are other things I need to improve of course, but I know if I try to change too many things at once, I will fail miserably. I hope that by keeping my goals for change to reasonable proportions, I will succeed.
What are your New Year's Resolutions?
December 29, 2007
Homeschool Carnival Call of Graphics
The Carnival of Homeschooling was begun by the Cates at Why Homeschool two years ago! Time sure does fly when you are having fun!
In honor of the longevity and sheer numbers of participants and visitors that check out the Carnival of Homeschooling each week, Henry and Janine are sponsoring a Graphics Contest. They are looking for a graphic for the Homeschool Carnival and they want you to give them some options. This contest has a couple of stages to it and by clicking the Graphics Contest link you can find out exactly how it is laid out.
Just think - your inspired artwork could be seen by hundreds each week! Is that cool or what?
Good luck!
December 26, 2007
I Won Goodies from Hotel Chocolat...ummmmm
Today I received a gift that I won from The Sassy Southerner and Hotel Chocolat.
My new friend at The Sassy Southerner told me this was some of the best chocolate in the world, and after having sampled it today, I have to agree...it just melts in your mouth and chases all your after Christmas blues away!
Here is the box...
Inside the box is lots of packing bubbles and I put the pamphlet here that was on the outside of the box. It tells the story of Hotel Chocolat. (Please note my restraint here as I manage to take these pictures for your viewing pleasure before ripping into the box!)
Ahh...the agony of proper packaging...when will I ever find the goodies inside????
Isn't it beautiful?
And here is the rest of my goodies.
Now...I could show you a picture of the perfect bliss I experienced as I sampled my gift...but since I try to keep this a family friendly blog, you'll just have to use your imagination!
If there is a chocolate lover in your household, I can recommend Hotel Chocolat for your future chocolate purchases. Don't forget Valentine's Day is right around the corner (as if one needs an excuse to buy chocolate!)
Book Review and Giveaway! A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman
UPDATE: Six days have passed and I haven't heard from Kitty, so I used the number generator and Julie Lessman's debut novel. A Passion Most Pure is 477 pages of romance, passion, war, mismatched love, God, family, laughter, tears and rivalries.
This is one of the longer romance novels I have read. And I honestly found it a bit slow in the beginning when the author was setting up the characters and the scene. But once I got hooked, I had a hard time putting it down. I soon felt part of this Irish family and I wanted to know how things were going to turn out. Being an only child, I have always been intrigued by the love and relationships of large families. I also enjoy reading historical novels and this novel that takes place before the 1920s and during WWI not only contains a tale of love, passion, and devotion to God, but I enjoyed reading the historical references.
Faith is devoted to God and does her best to follow His Word. Her sister, Charity, is young, full of herself and on a path to destruction, not just for herself but for all of those around her. Charity and Faith's parents do their best to model a godly and loving relationship, to help their children make the right decisions and to intervene when necessary. And as if life wasn't full of enough curve balls, America enters WWI and the O'Connor family's life is turned upside down.
This story is full of rich and believeable characters struggling with things that you and I struggle with in our lives. This is a well-written inspirational story of love and passion that will leave you anxious to read the next ook in the series.
And today is your lucky day! I believe I mentioned a giveaway... Well, I have one very gently read copy of A Passion Most Pure to give to one lucky reader! (Sorry, but this is open to United States Readers only unless you would like to pay the postage to have this book shipped overseas.)
All you have to do is comment below and tell me where Julie Lessman lives with her family and beloved golden retriever. I will draw names on January 2nd at 6 pm!
December 19, 2007
Chit, Chat and Chew Cookies - A Review and A Contest!!!!!
UPDATE! Congrats to Sara B for winning the random drawing for these yummy brownies! Enjoy them Sara! For those of you who didn't win, be sure to go visit the Chit, Chat and Chew website and buy some of your own. You will love them!
About a month ago, I won three pounds of Chocolate Chip cookie mix from Chit, Chat and Chew. I had my choice of ready-to-bake cookies or dry mix where I would have to add butter and an egg to. I went with the dry mix, because I am not always at home and getting the refrigerated dough delivered when I was home was a hard thing to coordinate. These cookies taste fantastic. What makes these cookies different from other cookies out there (besides the fact that you are guaranteed yummy cookies?). These cookies come with cards designed to promote conversation between you and your children. There is an adult card, a youth card and two activities cards. The way the cards are supposed to work is that you make the cookies, put them in the oven and then use the cards to jumpstart conversations with your children. You know that sometimes it can be hard to talk to your kids. They don't realize you were once a child and so they feel you two have nothing to talk about these. These cards can help them to realize that you have been there and done that...
We made some of our cookies the day they arrived. Not only were they easy and tasty, but the kids and I had fun with the questions. And we didn't stop talking when the cookies were ready. Another neat aspect to these cookies and brownies is that they are available to sell as a fundraiser! So if you are looking for a new and tasty fundraiser that people will really appreciate, think about contacting the Chit, Chat, and Chew Company. You will makd 50% from what you sell! A pretty good deal!
Chit,Chat and Chew has a variety of yummy flavors of cookies...just look at these pictures!
Oh yeah...I did mention a contest, didn't I? Well, Corliss has been kind enough to allow me to give one of my lucky readers a brownie kit...yes, you could be the lucky winner of three pounds of yummy, chewy brownies!
Here's what you have to do:
1. You have to be a U.S. resident to play.
2. Go visit the Chit Chat Brand website and look around.
3. Come back and leave a comment here. Tell me what one of the new products that will be coming out soon is.
4. That's it! Next Wednesday (December 26th), I will have a random drawing at 6 p.m.
Be sure to tell all of your friends! If you blog about this contest, let me know. I will give you two extra chances in the drawing! Good luck!
My Prize Arrived!
Let me tell you that Amanda from ohamanda.com is faster than a speeding bullet! Today, the gift basket that I just won a couple of days ago arrived on my doorstep! It is filled with goodies and I wanted to say thanks and to show all of you my lovely prize!
A beautiful bag, just right for carrying some books and suntan lotion in or the scarf I am currently working on!
And see the lovely card they sent me?
The card is signed by the Sisterchicks!
And they wrapped the other items and placed them in the bag.
Here are the prizes, now it is time to do some reading and munching!
Thanks again Sisterchicks!!!!
December 17, 2007
Look At My Beautiful Early Christmas Present!
In November, I won a $150 dollar shopping spree to In the Pink Designs from Classy Mommy. A lot of the neat gifts I have won the last few months have been turned into gifts for loved ones because we were low on funds and that enabled me to give a little something to those I love. But this particular gift, I am keeping just for me. I sent Hethre Smith some photos of my children when they were babies (1996 and 2000). They worked with those pictures and made me the beautiful bracelet you see below. I will treasure this always!
If you are looking for a very special gift for yourself or for a grandparent, I highly recommend checking out the products that In the Pink Designs offers. They have wonderful customer service and create beautiful jewelry that you will treasure forever.
I Can't Believe I Won!
Last week, I shared with you about Amanda's Themed Gift Basket Contest and I wrote about some of the themed gift baskets I have created over the years (or would create if I had unlimited funds.)
Well, today, Amanda let me know that she and her sisterchicks had picked my entry to win the prize of an awesome themed gift basket! I am tickled pink (or maybe I should say chocolate!). Thanks again, Sisterchicks!
December 13, 2007
Themed Gift Basket Ideas
There is a fun contest over at OhAmanda.com. She is giving away a wonderful themed gift basket (and just let me say, chocolate is involved). In order to grab an opportunity to win this lovely gift basket, she is asking for us to share with her a themed gift basket idea. It can be one we have given, one we have received or the one we would give if we were a millionaire. She and some of her dear friend's will be judging the entries and determining a lucky winner!
I love the gift basket idea. Mainly, because I think it is cool to get multiple gifts from one person. And since I love to get gifts like that, I also very much enjoy giving gifts like that! Two of my more memorable 'gift basket' ideas are below.
1. When I was 22 and working at my first 'real job' after college, I was invited to a baby shower for a co-worker. I had babies on the brain at the time and wanted to get her something relally neat! So I went to the store and bought a diaper bag, then I proceeded to fill every pocket with items I thought she could use: spoons, bibs, bottles, toys, some diapers, blankets, clothes, powder and lotion. I had so much fun filling up that bag and she loved unpacking it!
2. My best friend turned 40 about three years ago. She was going through some tough times with her spouse at the time and I wanted to get her something fun and unusual, so I put together a basket of goodies and a letter that explained the use of the goodies (in case some were lost on her). The main theme was ways to help her relax, count to 10 and take care of herself while she and her hubby worked out their problems. I included bath bubbles for relaxing, some chocolate, a candle, money for a pay phone call should she be in trouble, seeds that symbolized the growth of our own friendship, and gloves to remind her of the fact that best friends would help hide the body if necessary. She loved her gifts...so far we haven't had to use the gloves;)
3. If I had unlimited funds, I would love to give someone a gift basket that included tickets to travel to exotic places by plane, by boat, by train...And it would include hotel reservations, sight seeing tickets and reservations at wonderful restaurants. I love to travel and there is so much to see in the world. I think it would be cool to set up a travel package and give it to a friend or family member.
As usual, I have probably given more information than necessary, but I was having fun and couldn't stop myself! But enough meandering! Go visit Amanda and share your gift basket story with her (but should you win, be sure to share with me - hee hee).
Go Visit A Couple of Blogs...
Today I ran across a couple of posts that I want to share with you!
1. I read a wonderful letter to Santa when I went to Cherished Moments. It is a letter that will make all mom's smile!
2. For all of the single income families that stop by, you know how hard it is to make ends meet on one income. Many of you moms out there have come up with ways to supplement your income either via crafts, writing ads, writing books, or other types of work that can be done from home. It is important for us to support one another when we can, so in that line of reasoning, I want to encourage you to visit Julianne. She is having a contest to promote a product she is selling. Go visit! And good luck!
December 11, 2007
Do You Want to Win $200 to Spend on Jeans?
Do you have a hard time finding jeans to fit? You know...they are great at the waist, but two large in the legs or they fit everywhere, but are a tad too long, or they gap at your waist, but fit your hips? Well, look no further! Check out True Jeans. They will take your measurements, and then you will be shown the jeans that will best fit you! Sounds cool, doesn't it? Well, True Jeans and 5 Minutes for Mom have paired up to give one lucky, lucky gal $200.00 to spend on some jeans! So head over to 5 Minutes for Mom and sign up! Good luck!
December 10, 2007
Christmas Traditions Part 8 - Decorations
Well, I think this is it...the last of my Christmas Traditions posts..maybe...unless I think of something else to share:) This post will have what our house is decorated like this year. Before I show some pictures, though, I want to mention a bit about a couple of contests where they actually want to see what my decorations look like!
Reviews by Heidi is part of the 12 Blogs of Christmas Giveaway that is being sponsored by the HomeschoolEstore. To enter her contest, you simply need to post photos of how your homeschool room is decorated for the holidays and of course, send her a link). She is giving away a $50 gift certificate to HomeschoolEstore and she has reviewed some wonderful Scholastic Products which are just an example of how you could spend that $50.
Also, starting December 17th, BooMama is hosting a Christmas Tour of Homes!. This is an opportunity where you can share your home decor and visit other people's homes during the holidays...all from the comfort of your home! Also, since people are coming to visit, each person will be posting a favorite recipe. You can find my favorite cookie recipes in a link below.
Without further ado...here is what our home looks like this Christmas!
We lost our normal tree spot this past year when we added these beautiful French doors. Because the things that used to be stored here had to go somewhere. Since we didn't want to move a whole bunch of stuff, we decided to place our tree in the only 'empty' spot in our home. To the left, you catch a slice of our dining room table, this is our where we homeschool. And since our living room, kitchen, den and dining room are basically all open to one another, our home decorations can be seen from the dining room table. Makes it hard to concentrate on school work!
Here is a close up of our tree. We have a hodge podge of William and Mary Christmas ornaments, Airplane ornaments (hubby's collection), some glass ornaments, ornaments the children have made or been given and some ornaments that were on my grandparent's Christmas tree.
Continue reading "Christmas Traditions Part 8 - Decorations" »
December 8, 2007
Holiday Bundle Giveway - You Don't Want To Miss This!
Jocelyn Dixon is having a wonderful holiday bundle giveway! She is offering a holiday bundle giveaway that is worth over $300! Now I am a little confused as to whether there are twenty bundles to be given away or if there are twenty items and each person gets one, but either way, this is an amazing deal! Be sure to go visit and sign up! It is simple. This post will be at the top of my blog until December 8th when the contest ends.
The other thing I need to do is share a special memory. It is not said that it has to be a Christmas memory, but since it is Christmas time, I will go with that.
December 1996, I was in the hospital due to rising blood pressure and creatinine levels. My first child wasn't due for another month, and I had already been on bedrest for two months. Thanksgiving, Charles' 8th birthday, and Halloween had all passed by. We had a tree with an angel on top in our home and that was the extent of the decorations. My husband was working on a contract in California and my father was helping watch my two stepsons. I was looking at the Christmas tree that my mom had brought me for my room and praying that my baby would be born healthy, that I would be okay and if possible, I would be able to be home for Christmas. (Okay, so I had a lot on my Christmas list that year).
On December 20th, the doctors felt that Jack was close enough to his expected due date of January 19th and my body was doing poorly enough that we should go on and try to have us a child. First they tried to induce labor, after a day of misery (the medications made me feel awful as they tried to help me go into labor and keep my blood pressure in check at the same time). That evening, we went for the emergency c-section. I hadn't had a single contraction and we were worried about everyone's health. Around 9:30 pm, Jack was brought out into the world, with all his fingers and toes and everything else working perfectly.
On December 23rd, I was released from the hospital. It was a special Christmas, our new baby...all of us were healthy, and we were all home together for Jack's first Christmas. Our tree with the angel on top, was one of the prettiest trees we ever had!
December 4, 2007
Book Review: Crimson Eve by Brandilyn Collins and a Giveaway!
SaraB at Young Mom in a Big World was randomly chosen by my sweet, but sick daughter to win a copy of Crimson Eve. Thanks to everyone for playing along! Check back, more giveaways are on the horizon!
About a month ago, I was fortunate enough to win an autographed copy of Brandilyn Collins' newest book: Crimson Eve. I just finished reading it today. In fact, I took it with me to the library to read while Katrina was picking out books. She used the fact that I was getting near the end to 'bribe' me into letting her play on the library computer for awhile so I could finisht he book! Smart girl!
Crimson Eve is the third in the Kanner Laker Sereis. I haven't read the other Kanner Lane books, nor have I read anything written by Brandilyn before, but I will be reading more in the future. The book is excellent. Even though it is the third in the series, I had no trouble following it at all. This story stands on its own. The action is nonstop and in fact rivals the '24' series with the pace and the fact that the whole book covers little more than 24 hours of time (yet spans a couple of decades). If you enjoy reading fast paced thrillers with strong female characters, you would love this book! I give it a thumbs up!
And since I love sharing, I would like to pass this book on to another reader! This is open to any U.S. reader. Just leave a comment below. I will have a random drawing next Wednesday (the 12th) at 6 pm to pick the lucky winner!
November 28, 2007
Blog Tour: Review: For Parents Only by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa A. Rice Plus a Giveway!
UPDATE! Tonight I wrote everyone's name down, and let my daughter draw two names. Maria and Laura K. were the winners! Sorry I don't have a copy for everyone!
for parents only: getting insdie the head of your kid by Shaunti Feldhahn and Lisa A. Rice is a small (183 pp), easy to read book full of information and guidance for parents.
Shaunti and Lisa have prepared a book that helps parents to better understanding the following from their teens:
Freedom
Identity
Taking Charge
Security
Listening
Attitude
They question real live teenagers and then share their responses with us so that we can become better parents.
I have raised one teenager (now 21) and I have an almost 11 year old son and a 7 1/2 year old daughter. I could relate to so much of what was said in this book.
November 22, 2007
CFBA Blog Tour: The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Decked Out (and a giveaway)
I just finished reading The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Decked Out by Neta Jackson. This is the 7th in the Yada Yada series and the last book. I haven't read the previous six, but I enjoyed this book and it stood fine on its own. There were enough references to past events to make me want to go back and read the other books that I had missed.
This book made me wish there was a prayer group like the Yada Yada's at our church. Of course, you know what that means, I should get out there and start one. Not only was it a blessing to get an example of how such a prayer group could be, but it was a blessing to read a book where a variety of people from different backgrounds and cultures came together in their pursuit of their relationship with God. The story is one of friends and family and holidays. It is a reminder of what is truly important during this time of year. And it is a story of challenges introduced, met and overcome by the grace and power of God.
Continue reading "CFBA Blog Tour: The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Decked Out (and a giveaway)" »
November 21, 2007
Book Contest Winners!
The lucky winner of Splitting Harriet is......#7 commenter, Qtpies from Mom'sBlogging!
The lucky winner of my second copy of When the Morning Comes is....Tyna Begley at Begley Blessings
Congrats ladies!!!!!
Thousands of Dollars of Books Giveaway!
I love books! Do you love books!??? Well, here is an opportunity for you (or me) to walk away wih a library of books!
Encyclopedia Kevinannica is offering to give away a lot of books, videos and music! He is showing some of the books already. They are looking like some great books. He is accepting entries until December 24th! Go check it out and throw your name in the ring! What do you have to lose?
Fun Christmas Giveaway!
An American in Canada is having a fun giveaway! Go check out the Christmas goodies you can win and tell her what your favorite Christmas treat is!
November 13, 2007
Splitting Harriet: Book Review and Giveaway
I just finished reading Splitting Harriet by Tamara Leigh this afternoon and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This book is about 400 pp long and is easy to read. The characters are well created and became like friends. I could understand what each of them was feeling as they went through the changes that life throws at all of us.
This story is mainly about Harriet. She was a rebel, now she is the prodigal daughter. She grew up a PK (preacher's kid) and had to deal with all of the extra pressures that come with that. For awhile she went her own way and when she did the repercussions in her family and her church were huge (more in her own mind than in reality, but still they were big).
She returned to the fold. Asked God's forgiveness and spent many years trying to atone for the damage that she had caused. But like so many of us who have messed up big, she didn't really forgive herself. She knew that the bible said once she asked for forgiveness that God removed her sins far from her and forgot them, but she still felt like she had the need to sacrifice to make up for what she had done. And she was afraid. Afraid that if she lived a little, enjoyed life a little, that one thing would lead to another and before long she would be smoking, drinking, riding on the back of a motorcycle and heaven only knew what else.
Continue reading "Splitting Harriet: Book Review and Giveaway" »
November 11, 2007
And The Winners are...
I want to thank all of you for your interest in The Meeting of Anni Adams by Lonnie Story. I wish I could have given all 57 of you a copy of the book, but for those of you who didn't win, please feel free to go and buy yourself a copy! You won't be sorry that you did!
I used a random number generator to come up with the numbers of the winners and I have already contacted each winner.
So without further ado, the winners are:
1. Cindi Hoppes
13. Lace
28. Audra
43. Pammy
52. Catherine
I know these five ladies wil be blessed by this book! Thanks again for participating!
November 9, 2007
Win a Pair of Hepburn Earrings from Twisted Silver!
Aren't those earrings just gorgeous? My friend, Laura, recently received this pair and another pair from Twisted Silver. She has decided that, even though she was told she could keep both pairs of earrings, she wants to share (isn't she sweet!), so she is having a contest where we can get a chance to win these beautiful earrings! These Hepburn earrings would look beautiful dangling from my ears, don't you think?
And there is lots of other fine jewelry on this website, so go visit Laura for your chance to win these earrings and check out Twisted Silver...Christmas is fast approaching!
November 8, 2007
Christmas Giveaway 2007
Christmas is in the air. There are Christmas lists posts, Christmas Open House posts, and now a Christmas Giveaway!
5 Minutes for Mom is hosting a Christmas giveaway. There will be a new contest every day! Sign up for the ones you are interested in! And post a link either to the 'main' post or to the individual contests
Have fun and Merry Christmas!
Win 5 Free Bras from Playtex!
Playtex wants to show you how to figure out your correct bra size in 2 easy steps. And then they want to offer you the opportunity to win 5 free bras! Is that a deal or what?????
Click on this link to find out your bra size and get entered into the contest! Good luck!
Thanks for the Comments! I Will Catch Up! Contest Reminder! Busy Days!
As you can probably tell by the title of this post, I have been busy and I am going to try and put a bunch of stuff into one post!
First, I want to thank all of those that commented on my blog last week and this week. Many of the comments were in response to the giveaways related to The Fall Y'all Bloggy Giveaway...Wasn't that great fun? But I know some other personal comments were in there too. I make a point of visiting people who have visited and commented here, but I have done poorly over the last week and a half. I will at least comment on those more personal comments, and I will try to visit some of you who have entered a contest, but I wanted you to know that I appreciate your stopping by! Really I do.
Continue reading "Thanks for the Comments! I Will Catch Up! Contest Reminder! Busy Days!" »
November 6, 2007
When The Morning Comes: A Review and A Giveway!
Nov. 13th: 6:08 PM UPDATE! Thanks to all who came by and commented. I wish I had a copy for all of you, but alas...only one can win. So I put the names on paper, I folded them up. Tossed them. And Katrina drew a name. Lesha! Come on down! You are the next winner at my blog! Keep coming back. I hope to have at least one giveaway every week!
I was offered a chance to read and review When the Morning Comes by Cindy Woodsmall. This is the second book in the Sisters of the Quilt series, and even though I hadn't read the first book, I was told that I could would be able to understand and enjoy it anyway. I have always been interested in the Amish way of life and I thought this would be a good chance for me to learn more about it, so I volunteered.
When the Morning Comes is an excellent book. I was able to read it and never felt lost. Part of what helps with this is information about the main characters that is given in the front of the book. But the way Cindy weaves the story, also fills in any past information that I might need to make the current book make sense. Another delightful addition to this book is a glossary in the back that explains the meanings of some Pennsylvania Dutch words that seep into the book.
This is the story of an Amish community that is going through several problems concurrently and how they are attempting to deal with them. One young woman has been raped and ostracized because the community could not bring themselves to believe she told the truth. Hannah is really the main character of the story, but the tapestry of this tale has several other important characters woven into it. There is Hannah's family, particularly two of her siblings Luke and Sarah, and her Mamm and Daed who are trying to cope with Hannah leaving the community and other things going on in their lives. Sarah has some mental health issues and Luke wants to get married, but there are some problems there as well.
Continue reading "When The Morning Comes: A Review and A Giveway!" »
November 4, 2007
Book Giveaway - The High King's Tomb by Kristen Britain
UPDATE: after tossing three names into the hat and having one randomly picked out, the lucky winner of this book is Christy! Thanks for chiming in Laura and Becci. Wish I had a copy for each of you as well! I meant to pull this name last night. I thought about it at 5, but that was too early, then I got busy doing other things and it completely slipped my mind.
I won this in a contest a month ago. It looks like a great book, but I didn't read the review well enough. This appears to the be the third in a series of books. Since I don't have the first two books and I have enough on my reading shelf to last me for the next year or so, I thought I would pass this on to a Kristen Britain fan.
This is a softcover, uncorrected proof desigend for limited distribuition and not for sale. The Hardcover book will be released on November 6th.
It you would like to win this copy, all you have to do is comment below. It would also be very nice if you would do a review for this author. I wasn't asked to do a review as part of the contest that I won, but was asked after the fact if I would like to do a review. Authors give out free books hoping to spread the word, and I have no problem doing that, so if you would like to show your appreciation for the free book, I am sure the author would appreciate your review.
Here is what the back cover says...
Continue reading "Book Giveaway - The High King's Tomb by Kristen Britain" »
November 3, 2007
Boo Humbug Winners!
Thanks to all of the people who took part of my Boo Humbug contest! I wish I had a copy for each and every one of you. I used the Random Number Generator and the numbers 40 and 61 popped up. So the winners are:
Marie at Memarie Lane won one book. (Doesn't her blog have a cool name? And she has a great contest going on right now, so check it out!)
Jo at Life With Heathens won the other one. She picked a title that echos my life!
October 31, 2007
November 11th - Veteran's Day and a Book Giveaway
How does one define the word 'veteran'?
Originally, the word veteran meant "a person of long experience" or skill. Derived from the Latin term veteranus. After the American Revolution the word veteran came to be associated specifically with former soldiers of old age who had fought for independence. As time went on, "veteran" was used to describe any former member of the armed forces or a person who had served in the military.
World War I, also known as the "Great War" was officially concluded on the 11th hour of the 11th Day of November, at 11 A.M. in 1918. On November 11th of the following year, President Woodrow Wilson declared that day as "Armistice Day" in honor of the peace. (The term armistice means "truce" or the end of wartime hostilities.) This day was marked with public celebrations and a two minute halt to business at 11 AM. In 1921, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was dedicated in Arlington Cemetery with a ceremony on November 11th. After this dedication, Armistice Day was adopted in many states and at the federal level as a day to honor veterans. This was made official in 1938 when an act of Congress made Armistice Day a national holiday.
Continue reading "November 11th - Veteran's Day and a Book Giveaway" »
It's a Contest! It's a Product Promotion! Help Katrina Survivors! Have fun!
Okay, I have come up with what I think is going to be something fun, helpful and profitable...all in one!
One of the many reasons I blog is to try and make some extra money. As a single income family, the extra money definitely comes in handy. I have written three non-fiction books about animals and I have put together a Recipe CD.
So here is the deal....
Continue reading "It's a Contest! It's a Product Promotion! Help Katrina Survivors! Have fun!" »
Camy Tang's Amazing Giveaway!/Sticky Note #2
This will appear as a sticky note until October 31st. Please scroll down a bit for newer entries!
I found out about a fantastic giveaway where people who enter have an opportunity to win one of twenty three prizes! And the first three prizes include baskets of books and an ipod!!!!!!
Be sure to visit Camy's website to find out all of the details!
Also, if you do decide to enter, let her know that WRITMM referred you! Thanks! Good luck!
October 30, 2007
Crafty Giveaway - a Lovely Necklace
Suburose is offering a beautiful item for your wearing pleasure! And you can win it by visiting her website and leaving a comment. When I initially wrote this post, I credited Suburose with making this beautiful necklace. She was quick to point out that someone else had made it and offered it to her to giveaway. I missed this because I was scanning through posts this week due to the Fall Ya'll Bloggy Giveaway...and I wasn't reading carefully. So, I want you to know that the beautiful necklace you see below was made by Erin Elizabeth Jewelry
I almost hated to tell you about this giveaway, after all, the more people that know about it, the more my chances of winning go down. But I am hoping that my sharing this information will in fact be 'good karma' and it will increase my chances of winning! How's that for rationalization!
Suburose definitely has a talent for this sort of thing! Good luck!
October 29, 2007
Blog Tour: Boo Humbug by Rene Gutteridge
I recently had the enjoyable experience of getting to read Boo Humbug by Rene Gutteridge. This is the fourth in the 'Boo' Series, but have no fear...if you have not read the first three, you will still be able to enjoy this delightful tale!
Like millions of others, I love A Christmas Carol, that immortal story crafted by Charles Dickens. I have seen it many times and in some different versions (like An American Christmas Carol or The Grinch Who Stole Christmas), so I was looking forward to a book immediately alerted me to the fact that Scrooge was lurking in the wings (who else would be saying 'humbug'?)
Boo Humbug is a fun mix of A Christmas Carol and the wacky residents of Skary, Indiana. The holiday season starts off in Skary with Lois Stepaphonoplis creating her own version of A Christmas Carol. She brings more and more of the townspeople into the production, but something is amiss...and it's not just Lois' modern take on this Christmas classic. After days of rehearsal, the big night has arrived and it comes to the attention of Lois and Alfred that a dreadful mistake has been made...just wait until you read the twist in this story! It will warm the coldest of Scrooge hearts!
I have two copies of Boo Humbug to give away to two randomly drawn lucky winners! I am sorry, but this drawing is only available for United States addresses. And all you have to do is leave a comment below! Really, that's it! Just leave a comment! And if you would like an extra chance at winning, you can always share the information about this contest with others. Just be sure to let me know you have done so!
I will be conducting the random drawing on November 3rd around dinner time (EST) And for more great giveaways, go visit The Fall, Y'all! Bloggy Giveaway
October 26, 2007
Good News Week
This past week has been a good news week. And since I figure everyone enjoys good news, I would share.
Friday: I was notified that I had won this lovely pink hair piece from Aimee's Blog. Katrina and I will share it once it arrives.
Saturday: It went well at the flea market. I made about $50 from selling my books.
Sunday: I switched my membership to our new church. They are a very welcoming group of people and we are happy to be part of a church family again.
Monday: my car broke down, but the good news was that it was only a battery.
Early this week I won some Chit Chat cookie mix from DC Metro Moms Katrina, Jack and I can't wait for it to arrive!
Weds-Friday: we have had lots and lots of rain for which we are so very grateful! It was so dry here and we have received several inches of rain in the last few days.
Wednesday: Daniel had the final interview for the Illinois job, now we are just waiting to hear how that is going to work out. Hopefully early next week.
Thursday: Bruce, my stepson, had a very good interview with a company out of Charlotte, NC. He got good feedback and should have another interview next week. This job will provide much better pay than his current position, plus benefits!
Today, I found I that I was the grand prize winner in Girlfriends In God's Let's Make a Deal contest. I won a $100 gift certificate for American Airlines! WOW!!
Today, Daniel received a contract for a few days of work in Roanoke. So that will be some money coming in the end of November or so.
And then, today Google updated my page ranking. I went from a number 2 to a number 3. Cool!
And today, I received notification that my 3 ebooks are now being displayed on The Schoolhouse Store!
Hey, just now I got notification that I won a book from my friend Laura! The books is Never Look Back! What a week!
Thanks to Laura for keeping me posted on all the best contests out there! And thanks to all my readers and people who link to my blog who have helped me rise up in rank!
Oh yeah, and the house is clean!
I hope your week has been as cool as mine! God bless!
Thanks to Those Who Helped With Our Fundraiser
We appreciate those who helped us with our fundraising efforts to help send care packages to soldiers in Iraq. I dislike doing fundraising, but it is a good cause and a one time deal. (We are going to be doing bake sales and yard sales because none of the other moms like fund raising either.)
For the three people who donated, they each get to send me their prize preference.I have emailed them.
Becky, a homeschooling friend, gets the Encyclopedian and Rufus.
I am waiting to hear back from:
K.J. and Sarkastic.
October 24, 2007
Why Do I Work From Home? (and a contest)
I work from home because it fits with our lifestyle. Even during the last 'not working for myself position' I had, I had managed to maneuver it so that I could during the last couple of years there, I worked mostly from my home.
By working from my home, I have more freedom. I can be with my children (which is very important because I homeschool) and I am really only limited on how much I get done by how many hours there are in the day. I can do laundry in between jobs, I can watch TV while I work and I can work in my pajamas. The thing I like best about working at home (besides being with my children) is that I am in control. I can move up as far and as fast as I choose. If something is not working out for me, it is fairly easy to switch to something else. And I don't have to spend the time traveling to and from work (I live 30 minutes or more away from most job opportunities). I don't have to worry if I have the right clothes, the right hair do or drive the right car. I don't have to have a budget for lunches and clothing. And since my husband also works partially from home, I get to see more of him.
When I was in elementary school, we read a story about a mom and dad working from home on their computers and the child in the next room doing his schooling. I thought that was the craziest thing I had ever heard of...but here I am, living that story!
So why do you work from home or want to work from home? Super WAHM wants to know!
Super WAHM is having a cool contest where you can win a basket full of office goodies! You have between now and November 15th to participate. There are several ways you can enter to win, so be sure to read them all!
October 20, 2007
Book Giveaway!
Laura is having a wonderful book giveaway and I urge you to go leave a comment for a chance to own a beautiful, autographed children's book that comes with a CD! The book is I Can't See, But...I Can Imagine by Patricia Bennett Wilson. Hurry! The contest ends October 26th! Good luck! (the book is for children ages 4-8).
October 18, 2007
Review and Giveaway: The Shepherd's Prayer: A Christmas Novel by Richard M. Barry
My buddy, Laura, has given a review of the book The Shepherd's Prayer, and she is offering a copy to one lucky reader just in time for Christmas! Go check it out!
October 17, 2007
What Scares Me
Because of Halloween and the increasingly shorter number of daylight hours, October is a month when we start thinking about things that scare us...Scribbit is challenging us to write about the things that scare us and in exchange some prizes will be awarded and links will be given! But hurry, because the deadline is today! I can't believe I let this slip up on me!
So what scares me...
Monsters and things that go bump in the night. Or at least that was what scared me as a child. My mom loved horror movies and so did I...at least until the lights went out when I managed to see Dracula's creepy fingers crawling across my bed (bunched sheets), or imagined the blob rolling down the hall. I had some pretty vivid nightmares too that I can now trace back to my favorite cartoon - Scooby Doo!
October 16, 2007
Yesterday's Mail Call
Yesterday, two goodies arrived in my mailbox.
First was a free sample that I had requested from Walmart. If you haven't checked out the free sample webpage, be sure to do so because there are lots of items there that you can try out for free. The free sample I received was of three different Jergens lotions: Ultra Helaing, Skin Smoothing and Shea Butter. I have lots of dry skin and multiple problem areas. The bottom of my feet, my elbows, my hands...I am looking forward to trying these and see how they work.
Also, I received a copy of Guardian of the Veil written by Gregory Spencer. I cannot wait to read it! It is going right into the reading stack! I won Guardian of the Veil from CeeCee at BookSplurge. Thanks, CeeCee!
October 15, 2007
Linky Contest Winner
Tonight at 8 pm, I wrote down the names of those who had participated in my Linky Contest. My daughter came and picked a random name. The winner is.....drumroll please....
Sherry at A Bibliomane Amidst the Butterflies!
Congrats Sherry! As soon as I hear from you I will be sending you copies of all three of my ebooks as well as my Recipe CD.
And for those of you who didn't win, you can always purchase a copy of any or all of these items. If you purchase before the end of October, you could possibly win one of 10 great prizes and you will be helping a worthy cause and you will be getting a top notch product!
Linky Contest
Okay here's the scoop. I know that some people don't have money to buy my awesome ebooks or recipe CD, but would really like to have them. So here's what I am going to do. I will offer all three ebooks and my CD to one lucky winner! What do you have to do? Well, help me to get the word out!
1. Post an entry on your blog linking back to my contest post.
2. Leave a comment on this post and include the link to your blog post about my contest.
3. I will draw a winner on October 15th at 8 p.m.! That way, if you aren't the lucky winner, you will still have time to take advantage of my great October Extravaganza!
4. For more opportunities to win my ebooks and recipe CD, visit Laura's contests - she is giving away a complete set of my ebooks here and my recipe cd here.
October 11, 2007
Coupons, Coupon Codes and Sweepstakes
If you have been reading my blog for any amount of time, you know that I am all about trying to find ways to save money to help out with our household expenses. And in my searching and sharing, I have learned that Everybody Loves Coupons, The blog of UltimateCoupons.com, is giving away a Nintendo Wii plus one game (Mario Party 8). People can enter through October 31, 2007
Not only do they offer coupons, coupon codes, and sweepstakes, but you can subscribe to their newsletter and get information periodically about wonderful deals.
For example, they have a sweepstakes where you can potentially win $200! Just for entering! The easiest $200 you will ever make! They have grocery coupons, store coupons, product coupons. The site is well organized so you can quickly find exactly what you are looking for and find out if there is a coupon for it.
Wondering about that Wii pacakge? well click on the Halloween section and surprise! There is the opportunity for you to win a Wii from their blog. They also have about a dozen options for great Halloween deals. They do this for a variety of other items and stores are well! Go check it out and start saving money today! Don't forget to enter those sweepstakes!
$50 Gift Certificate Giveway Contest!
Do you spend much time in the car? Will you be traveling a lot in the holiday months ahead as you go over the river and through the woods to visit friends and family? Then this contest is for you! Madallie has A Children's Travel Store and it has everything you can imagine to help those long trips go smoothly by.
There are books, blankets, crafts, and games all designed to entertain your children on those long trips. Be sure to bookmark her site because if you don't win the $50 gift certificate, you are going to want to be able to find her store again and get stocked up before your next long trip.
Now about that $50 gift certificate. To win it, you need to visit Skimbaco for the details. It is as simple as spreading the word and having a lucky star shine on your name! Good luck!
October 10, 2007
Challies.com October Giveaway!
Here are the prizes for this month's giveaway:
First prize: One case (Forty copies!) of The Truth of the Cross by R.C. Sproul along with a copy of Jesus the Evangelist by Richard Phillips (that's a retail value of over $600!). The forty books are not to be sold, but are to be given away or used for evangelism. Just think what you could do with forty of them. That's ten for people in the church, ten for family members, ten for Christmas gifts and ten to hold on to for just the right moment.
Second prize: One copy of Jesus the Evangelist by Richard Phillips and admission for two to the Ligonier Ministries 2008 National Conference, Evangelism According to Jesus.
Third Prize: One copy of Jesus the Evangelist by Richard Phillips and admission for two to the Ligonier Ministries 2008 National Conference, Evangelism According to Jesus.
Note: If the second or third prize winners are unable to attend the 2008 National Conference, they may substitute admission for two to The Cross of Christ Regional Conference in Dallas/Fort Worth (November 2-3, 2007) OR any two books published by Reformation Trust.
Enter the Draw
You can enter the draw here . If you enter, please be sure to give them my referral id! Thanks a bushel! 21569
(Be sure to read the instructions carefully!)
Hat Tip to Laura!
October 9, 2007
Mail Call
Today was a good mail day! I love good mail days! I got a couple of magazines in the mail and two prizes I had won also arrived.
First I received a cool baby carrier made by Comfy Joey. I entered a contest at Lille Punkin' Reviews. The carrier is for my daughter and it will be a Christmas gift. She will love carrying around her dolls and stuffed animals in it! And, they make carriers for mommy's too.
Then my other package contained Kaponga Nuts Creme de parfum. It smells wonderful!!! And the smell lasts a long, long time! It is an all natural product and comes in a lovely wooden container. I won this from Fashion Fling.. I won the jasmine floriental scent.
Contest Round-up
If you haven't been by Laura Williams' Musings and signed up for her RSS feed, you are really missing out! This gal provides tons of contests every day for her readers! I have won books, perfume, gifts for my children, and found out about paying opportunities by visiting her blog.
Don't just take my word for it, go visit her blog! You will be so glad you did. Today, here are some of the many, many contests she shared that I was thrilled with.
Marcher Lord Press publishes Christian Speculative Fiction and they are offering wonderful prizes that will be given randomly to those who sign up.
If you do sign up, be sure to mention me as referrer. My email is melissamarkham(at)takethemat(dot)com!
How about winning a gift for your hubby!? Check out these cool vintage typewriter button cufflinks at Subu, Inc.! And you get to choose the letter you want if you win!
Harper Collins is giving away 15 sets of 12 scary books. The drawing ends on November 8, 2007.
Biblical Womanhood is giving away 10 copies of Passionate Housewives to 10 randome individuals.
So, check out the contests ad check out my buddy, Laura! You will be so glad you did!
October 7, 2007
Win a Box of Olor del Cibao Cigars
What would you do for free cigars? CigarJack.net is offering several different ways for you to win a box of Olor del Cibao Cigars, so pick which one suits you best and give it a shot! My husband's uncle really enjoys a good cigar and occasionally so does my husband. We thought this would be a great opportunity to win a really great Christmas gift for him
If you have anyone on your Christmas list who enjoys cigars, this is definitely a site to check out! They carry a wide variety of cigars and accessories. Good luck with your contest entry!
October 5, 2007
Win Halo 3
I am writing to let you know that Leo Chiang, the tattooed pilot on Battlestar Galactica, is having a contest where he will be giving away a copy of the much anticipated Halo 3 Legendary Edition.
My stepson and husband are salivating over the thought of this game, so I thought I would see if I could get it for them as an early Christams gift.
Go ahead and enter the contest. You never know when it will be your lucky number!
Blonde Mom Blog is Giving Away a Disney Princess DVD
Go over to her blog for a chance to win this DVD for your daughter or another small friend (or for yourself!)
The new Disney Princess Enchanted Tales: Follow Your Dreams DVD includes the first story line featuring Sleepy Beauty (Aurora) from the original classic. Princess Jasmine from Aladdin is also featured. I especially like the message of this DVD, which is believing in oneself. Gone are the days of princesses waiting around and being waited on. These are modern day princesses and Prince Charming is just a fringe benefit of royalty, not a requirement!
Hurry, the drawing ends Sunday midnight!
October 3, 2007
Let's Go Nuts Giveaway
Check out this awesome giveway over at Fashion Fling!
Each day for two weeks, they are giving away one of the fragrances of Nuts Cream Perfumes created by Kaponga! Don't miss out on your chance to get some natural smell goods! Good luck!
October 2, 2007
Go Share Birthday Wishes
Over at Always A Work in Progress and get a chance to win The Old Country Church CD by the Wright Family.
September 30, 2007
Haiku Carnival with Prizes
Please note this is a sticky post and will be at the top of my blog until September 30th. Just scroll down for my more recent entry.
I love Haiku. I was introduced to this form of poetry when I was in high school. Previous to that I mostly wrote free form poetry, but once I learned of Haiku, I switched to that. To me, Haiku is powerful in its beauty and simplicity.
If you are not sure what Haiku is you can check out the Wikipedia definition. Basically, Haiku is three lines of poetry. The first line has five syllables, the second has seven syllables, and the thrid has five syllables. Traditional Haiku revolve around nature, modern haiku cover all kinds of topics. Personally, I prefer haiku that deals with the natural world, though I have written some that are modern.
Here is another good website I found with lots of information.
So here is what I would like to do...
Haiku Carnival Winners
Thanks to all for participating in my month long haiku carnival! I wish more people had shared their haiku, but I enjoyed the haiku that I did get to read.
After a scientific drawing (I wrote everyone's name down on a piece of paper and said for prize 1...and drew a piece of paper out of the pile), I have four lucky winners!
Jaminacema won 2001 Cross Stitch Designs
Tim won 1001 Ways to Be Romantic
Amber won 555 Timeless Cross-Stitch Designs
Lady Poet 33 won Christmas Ornaments
September 28, 2007
October Product Promotion/Contest/Charity Event Preview!
This is a preview to what is going to be happening here at Yesterday's Hopes for the month of October. I have written three ebooks. The Komodo Dragon, The Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, and The American Bison. For the month of October, i will be offering a chance at prizes and the opportunity to support Habitat for Humanity in New Orleans for anyone who buys one or more of my products. In addition to the three ebooks, I also have a recipe cd that contains over 460 recipes and a friend of mine has provided a website where you can learn all about selling on Ebay.
To help me get this started off, Laura at Laura Williams' Musings is hosting a contest where you can have a chance to win all three of my ebooks for free! And just so you don't have to take my word for it that these are great products, she has provided reviews! You can check them out here at the links below!
September 26, 2007
Mail Call
Today was a fun mail day. I received two fun packages in the mail.
First I opened a package from Emily at Subu, Inc. Inside was a coupon off of my next purchase from Dragon in Knots and information about Heart and Soul Designs Hand Made Jewelry and Trevor Luckman Photography. But the true prize was the homemade wrist cuff for my daughter. She is thrilled because it has a pink ribbon, it sparkles and the fifteen year old neighbor who she adores wears wrist cuffs!
Then there was a free sample of Shania's new Starlight perfume: From the package: Shania Starlight....inspired by a shimmering western sky. Infused with the glamour that takes you from day to night. Experience the romance sophistication of this sparkling floral fragrance with hints of freesia and star magnolia. This romantic perfume is going on my Christmas list this year!
And while I was writing this post, the UPS man arrived with two books for me from Harper Collins to review. I can't wait to share them with you all!
What a delightful mailbox day!
Ballantyne Christian Adventure Library: A Contest!
You are not going to believe this incredible offer!
Life in a Shoe is hosting a giveaway of Vision Forum's exciting new adventure series, Ballantyne books.
A 10 hardback book set is up for grabs! Inspiring reading! Don't miss out on your chance to enter this contest!
September 17, 2007
Halloween Costume Give-Away!
Two Moms in a Blog is offering a $100 gift certificate to Halloween Mart, just in time for the upcoming holiday! They have oodles of costumes at Halloween Mart. My kids are drooling over the pirate section! The Jack Sparrow costume is espcially appealing to my 10 year old. It's amazing how blood thirsty pirates have been given such a good name by Pirates of the Caribbean! Go check out the contest and the store and join in the fun! Even if you don't do Halloween, you can always use costumes during history studies!
September 15, 2007
Review: The Mad Days of Me: Escaping Barcelona (and a Giveaway)
A couple of weeks ago, I won the book: The Mad Days of Me: Escaping Barcelona, a novel by Henry Martin. (Thanks Breeni! )What attracted me to the book (besides the fact that it was free) was the title. I love traveling and the fact that Barcelona was in the title made me curious.
I really had no idea what the book was about. Now that I have read it, I am conflicted about how I feel about it. Overall, the main character, comes through a horrendous ordeal and manages in the end to get out of the situation he has become mired in. Along the way he sees some of the worst attributes of humans and gets glimpses of good attributes. The novel is 172 pages long. There are some 'shocking' scenes in this book and if you don't want to read about personal violence and violations, you probably don't want to read this book. But if you like to read about how people overcome terrible situations and keep going, then you may very well like this book.
BTW, the book is signed by the author. So I am going to pass this book along to a lucky reader! If you are interested, simply place a comment below. I will have a random drawing on September 15th. If you really want to win the book, you can earn yourself an extra chance by placing a link to my blog on your blog. Be sure to let me know you have done that so I can give you an extra chance!
Good luck!
WINNER! Mad Days of Me:Escaping Barcelona
Crystal is the winner of this signed book by Henry Martin. I put everyone's name on a piece of paper, Laura's went twice and then my daughter drew the name! I have sent Crystal an email (she doesn't have a blog). Thanks to everyone for stopping by! And thanks to Breeni for putting the book in circulation for give aways to begin with!
September 13, 2007
There's A New Kid in Town...Mom's Turn
I was perusing through Laura's contests today and saw a possibility to win a homemade quilt or notecards. That piqued my interest, so I went and took a look.
And not only am I excited about the prizes, but I am excited about this brand new website! The purpose of Mom's Turn is to give us a chance to vent anonymously and get much needed support! We all started blogging to share our feelings, to record things for posterity, but as more people come by to read our words, we find ourselves not sharing everything we feel because we don't to upset or offend someone. So Mom's Turn comes to the rescue.
You can email whatever is bothering you to them. They will publish it anonymously. And hopefully people will come by and comment and give you support! What a cool idea! So go check out the contest and learn more about this opportunity to be anonymous!
September 12, 2007
Scream Free Parenting Book Contest
Diane at The Mommy Spot has given a terrific review of the book Scream Free Parenting. And she is also giving away 5 free copies of the book! Go check out her review and leave a comment! This is a book every parent needs at one time or another!
September 10, 2007
Contest Wins
I only recently found out about contests (like this month) and how many of them there are out there. I like giving stuff away, but it sure is fun receiving too! Here are the things I have won in the last four weeks
From Tiany I won a Homeschool Planner CD, an Ebook from Biblical Womanhood, and a 3 month subscription to Homeschooling Today magazine!
I won The Mad Days of Me: Escaping Barcelona by Henry Martin from Sabrina Williams at Breeni Books..
I won some cute Shoo Shoos red, white and blue sandals from Kim at Mommy Knows. I am giving these to a friend who is having a child this fall. They will be just right for next spring!
And I won an ebook and a print book from Judy at The Long and Short of It Blog. The print book hasn't arrived yet, so I am not sure what it is.
I won a Samson and Delilah video and a book called God’s Creative Power For Healing from Briggie in her August Give Away Contest.
And I won handmade soaps from Sasha at Cherished Quilts in her August Give Away Contest!
I won Meeting of Anni Adams: The Butterfly of Luxembourg from Karen at Mommy of Three! I love books! Thanks Karen!
I also have to thank Laura at Laura William's Musings since I learn about most contests through her great daily contest posts!
My mailbox is bursting! Thanks to all of you for the great prizes!
September 7, 2007
Rockin' Baby Sling
I have a friend who is expecting in November and I would love to win this beautiful Strawberry Fields Rockin' Baby Sling for her! She is always on the go and this would be the perfect gift! If you would like to see this sling (and enter the contest) be sure to stop by. Check out the Rockin Baby Shop for even more terrific items!
September 6, 2007
Fall Back into Homeschool Giveaway!
HSKubes Haven at Home is having an awesome homeschool giveaway! In honor of starting back to school, they are giving away some items that no homeschool family should be without!
A set of colored pencils
A set of drawing pencils with eraser
A personal size pencil sharpener
A spiralbound sketch book
A set of pretty notecards
A homeschool bumper sticker
and
A free year subscription to Birds and Blooms magazine
So head over there and check it out! All you have to do to enter is mention the contest on your blog and then leave a comment on the HSKubes blog!
September 4, 2007
Magical Giveaway
Mod*Mom is hosting a magical giveaway that your child is sure to love! She is giving away five spectacular magic kits! Thrill the magician in your home with over 100 tricks and a DVD.
September 1, 2007
Book Contest: The Meeting of Ani Adams
Karen over at Mommy of Three is having a book giveaway for what looks to be a very interesting book: The Meeting of Ani Adams. The deadline is September 9th. Go check it out!
August Give Away Winners!
Contests are awesome and they make blogging even more fun (as if it needed any help). I have won some great contests in the last couple of weeks and will be sharing that list in the next day or so. Also, be on the lookout as I will be having a neat opportunity posted in the next few days for you to win prizes, help people in New Orleans and receive great products at the same time!
Without further ado, here are the winners of my August give-away contest!
1. The winner of the Komodo Dragon Book is Jo at Sona Creidhe.
2. The winner of the recipe CD's is Karen at Mommy of three
3. The winner of the Mother Teresa book is Briggie at There is Power in Prayer through Yeshua Ha Masniach (which is pretty cool as I was one of the winners of her August give-a-ways!)
In case you are wondering how winners were picked, I wrote down people's names based on which category they were interested in. Folded up the papers, closed my eyes and picked:) Sorry that everyone couldn't be a winner!
August 31, 2007
August Give-Away
Please note that this is a sticky post and will be at the top of my page until September 1st. Scroll down a bit for more recent entries.
Laane at Laane on the World is hosting a wonderful August Give A Way contest! Be sure to check out her contest and how you can enter! And the neat thing is is that to enter her contest you have to have a contest of your own...which of course means there are multiple contests to check out! Great fun! For clarification, the first link gives you the rules to entering, the contest link takes you to where Laane is giving away earrings and a pendant! Good luck!
I am offering three prizes to three winners! I would love for you to enter my contest for a chance to win. And if you have a prize preference, be sure to share that in your comment. I will have my drawing on August 31st and announce the winner on September 1st.
Now to the prizes:
#1 My Komodo Dragon Ebook. This is a PDF file of an interactive book. There is all kinds of information and photos and Internet links regarding the Komodo Dragon.
#2 My CD of over 460 recipes. Some were handed down through my family, some were ones I found.
#3 A biography on Mother Teresa. Used, but very interesting!
August 30, 2007
The National Arbor Day Foundation Poster Contest
This is a contest for 5th graders. If you go to the Arbor Foundation website and click on contact us, you should be able to get more information. We acutally checked into this last year and today we received notifcation in the mail about the contest along with a free booklet with some great learning activities in it. Each state has different deadlines so contact them ASAP if you have an interested 5th grader!
Good luck!
August 28, 2007
Giveaway! Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus Silver Edition Graphic Scientific Calculator
An Island Review has a product review of Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus Silver Edition Graphic Scientific Calculator! It is the newest generation of graphing calculator and according to her it is awesome! And what's even mnore awesome is you have a chance to win this for your child!
Go check it out! And good luck!
August 27, 2007
Contest for Free Books
Judy at Welcome to My World of Dreams is having a pre-Grand Opening contest in honor of a review blog that is devoted to short and long romantic fiction! The new site is titled The Long and Short of It
Go to Judy's main site for the directions of how to join! Come on what have you got to lose? A few minutes of your time? What have you got to gain? Access to a site of great reviews (helps to sort out the many books that are out there) and a chance to win some books for bath time reading! So don't wait, go enter today! Good luck:)
BTW, this is a sticky post, please scroll down to read my recent posts. For everyday I put this contest at the top of my blog, I get another entry into the contest:)
August 12, 2007
Multi-Tasking Days
I am writing this blog entry in response to a contest at Multi-Tasking Moms blog. I am supposed to share a favorite family recipe, a cleaner I love, or examples of my multi-tasking.
I am a big multi-tasker. Here are some examples:
1. Doing multiplcation or other math facts with the kids in the car (or spelling words or making up stories). We also listen to audio books in the car.
2. When I am making breakfast in the morning, I am also putting away the clean dishes from the night before that I left out to air dry after washing them. Other things I do while cooking i the kitchen are feed the cats, prepare food for the rabbits, or work on the wash (laundry room is right next to the kitchen.)
3. I rarely watch tv without doing something else: crocheting, needlepoint, blogging, answering email, playing a game on my Nintendo DS, doing Ebay work. I just about can't stand just sitting and watching tv.
4. When I am cleaning or doing dishes, I listen to books on my iPod.
And now, just for fun a favorite recipe:
Pizza By the Yard
Ingredients:
1 unsliced loaf of French bread
1 6 oz can tomato paste
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
¼ cup chopped onion
½ tsp oregano
¾ tsp salt
Dash pepper
1 lb ground beef
2 tomatoes sliced
1 green pepper cut into rings (optional)
4 oz grated sharp cheese
4 slices mozzarella cheese
Directions:
Cut loaf in half. Spread with beef mixture. Bake at 400 degrees 20 to 25 minutes. Then remove from oven, add tomatoes, peppers and cheese. Return to oven and bake until cheese melts.
Gotta Go Contest
Do you have an embarrassing bathroom story you want to share? Well go check out the Gotta Go Gotta Go Gotta Go Right Now Contest for a chance to win an awesome gift bag of toiletries! Regardless of whether or not you win, you will sympathize with the others and get a few laughs!
July 25, 2007
M.O.M.'s Recipes and a Contest!
For my 17th Christmas, the last one at home before I went to college, my mother gave me one of the best Christmas presents I have ever received. She gave me a recipe box full of recipes from when I was growing up. Many were recipes I had tasted, some were ones she thought I would like but she had not yet made. I have referred to that box often. I now have a 21 year old stepson who enjoys cooking. So I decided to type all of my mother's recipes and ones I have collected over the years and put them in my computer. There are 460 recipes so far! I then saved these to a disk so I could send it to Bruce and to some others on my list.
As I typed these recipes in, I started making some dishes I hadn't made or had in a while. And they were all so yummy. I have shared some of them here on this blog.