Stumbling Into Grace by Lisa Harper {Book Review}

Book Description:
Humorous yet poignant stories from Lisa's life help readers relate to spiritual truths found in the life and ministry of Christ.


Stumbling Into Grace is the diary-devotional of one woman's honest, ongoing, bumbling journey of faith and how she finds encouragement through a deeper understanding of Christ's time on earth. Within each chapter she alternates her often humorous memoir with stirring portraits of Jesus and his own encounters as recorded in the New Testament.

Both intimately relevant and refreshingly inspirational, this book will help readers to jettison the theological misconceptions, guilt, shame, and hypocrisy they struggle with, exchanging them for a vibrant, passionate relationship with Christ that results in a more abundant, joyful life.

My Review:
After each chapter, there is a Journal Entry that you yourself can input your thoughts of what Jesus has brought to you and the meaning of those gifts.  This book is part diary, part devotional.  Honestly, I was captured by the cover of this book.  The cuteness of the cover brought me about reading this book and actually enjoying it.  The author engaged me in wanting to read more.   Some books, you pick up and are able to put down, not this one, it kept me wanting to read more and laughing at times as I could relate to some things she was saying.

I am glad I read this book and am passing it down to my friends to hopefully enjoy as well.

I would recommend this book and give it 4 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I was provided with a copy of this book through my membership with Booksneeze to help abide in a complete and honest review of this book.  All opinions expressed above are complete, honest, accurate and 100% mine.

The Quotable Rogue {Book Review}

Book Description:
Inspiring, impactful, and revealing words from political and cultural icon Sarah Palin.


Many a pundit has tried to define Sarah Palin, but this is one woman who chooses not to wear labels imposed by others but instead to define herself by her own words and actions. Today she is one of the most sought after speakers and commentators and is poised to help to frame the issues in the 2010 election and beyond. The Quotable Rogue encapsulates Palin’s thoughts on such salient issues as health care, taxes, and government spending, the right to life, climate change, what it means for a politician to serve the people, and more.

• “We need to spend more time lifting up America instead of apologizing for the greatest country on earth.”
• “How’s that hopey-changey thing workin’ out for you?”
• “My dad always says, ‘Don’t retreat, just reload.’ Don’t let anybody tell you to sit down and shut up.”

My Opinion:
I enjoyed the book.  One can never imagine the stress of running for President of the greatest country in the world.  We all remember Sarah Palin by her quick-witted "Palanisms" or as we say in layman's terms, quotes.  Remember, "Russia is our neighbor, I can see it from my house"?  This book is full of them.  Whether you like Sarah Palin as a person or not, this books gives insight to her thoughts on a daily basis.  Very funny and humorous.

When I get a good book, I like to share and pass down to my friends.  This book is one of those books. 

If you don't want to spend the money, I would definitely recommend checking if your local library has.

Disclosure:  Through my membership with Booksneeze, I was given a copy of this book free of charge to provide my honest opinion and review.

Money Secrets of the Amish by: Lorilee Craker {Book Review}

Book Description:
Discover the money-saving and wealth-building secrets of America’s thriftiest people, the Amish.


Author, journalist, and descendant of the Amish, Lorilee Craker, was just like the rest of us, feeling the pinch from the financial fallout of 2008. As a freelancer, her income was going the way of the dodo—family dollars seemed like an extinct myth, the bank account some archeological evidence of past prosperity.

Then, inspired by a news segment covering her people, the Amish, and how they emerged from the economic crisis unscathed, she realized it was time to get back to her roots and learn a thing or two about their time-tested approach to personal finances. While the middle-class was wringing its hands over the family budget and the wealthy were weeping over their slashed portfolios, the Amish were content as always, spared from the cares of the world and worldliness. They not only had financial health to support their lives, they exuded a wholeness that eludes so many when the financial bottom drops out.

In Money Secrets of the Amish, readers go on an “Amish money makeover,” learning the choices, secrets, and disciplines that safeguarded the contentment and the coffers of America’s favorite plain folk by spending less, saving more, and getting happier doing it.
 
My Review:
I have always been intrigued by how the Amish live so when I was given the opportunity to review this book, I jumped at the chance.  In today's economy I need to learn, not only for myself, but for my family, how to live within my means and be happy about it. 
 
Growing up, every year my family always traveled to Pennsylvania, so I knew a bit about the Amish and their culture.  Whenever we we there I always thought, wow, these people live minimal and seem so very happy.  I guess when you do not have something, you do not miss it.
 
Anyhoot, this book was amazing.  The Amish do not believe in electricity in their homes, so right there they are saving a ton of money.  I could never live without power.  That means no lights whenever necessary, no tv, no radio.  However, I can learn, from this book, how to be more responsible when using them and to minimize its use (now, to teach my kids that). 
 
Another huge aspect of this book is how the Amish do not live with debt.  That is a huge NO to them!  They will rent out a farm for years to save money to buy their own.  In one aspect it is odd, though to think of how hard they work to get something that is their own, it is an accomplishment bigger than anything else!  This past year, my husband and I have paid off all of our credit cards - no more!  I never actually realized how much we counted on them until not actually using them.  It is a blessing and has taught us the value of the dollar. 
 
Something I need to teach my children is to appreciate what they do have.  The Amish, at holiday times, only give 1 gift to their kids.  Now yes, they do have a "football" team of kids and with all those kids, I too could not afford to get more than 1 or 2 gifts for each.  This is another way they save money.  Also, by making gifts, and reusing what they have, i.e., a big man's shirt, they may cut up and make 2 small boy shirts out of the material.  They never ever get rid of anything - everything has a purpose to be reused again.
 
This was an eye opener of a book.  I enjoyed this book and have passed it on to my friends to continue to pass on to whomever is open to reading it.  It is a book I would highly recommend.  And, I would also recommend going to Lancaster, Pennsylvania to visit and actually see how these amazing people live.
 
I have given this book 5 stars out of 5 - amazing learning!
 
Disclosure:  Through my membership with Booksneeze, I received a copy of the above book with only having to provide my honest opinion.  I read the book and truly loved it and have passed it on for more to read.

In Stitches-A Memoir, by: Anthony Youn, M.D. {Book Review}

I just got through reading a very comicle, yet serious memoir of a young Korean-American man's journey through life, from child to adult, and how he found himself and what he, not his father, was meant to be.  Realizing in the life he was in, his father was an doctor who delivered many, many babies, at all hours of the day/night, and his father wanted both he and his brother to also follow in his footsteps and become a respectable, wealthy surgeon.

Anthony Youn knew he was going to be a doctor, although for opposite reasons, he wanted to get "laid", because all doctors got lucky!  At one point, Anthony Youn thought he wanted to be in family practice, though to his father's dismay, he said, ok, you be in family practice and be broke.  His father said to him, "you become plastic surgeon, one surgery, ten thousand dollah".  It was very comical and I caught myself chuckling more than a handful of times.  From grammar school, to high school to 4 years of med school, to being different (as he calls himself, a "nerd"), to girls, this book is a must read for all.

I enjoyed reading this book, learning of Dr. Youn's journey from beginning to now, and the path he has chosen.  You will read the different routines in the hospital Anthony Youn must learn and how he comes of learning his fate and what he will be.


During his tenure of figuring out his fate, he finally realized that he wanted to be a doctor to "fix people". 

I give this book 8 stars out of 10.  A well written book, one that kept my interest from one page to the next.

Disclosure:  I was provided with a copy of this book for my honest opinion.  All words expressed above are 100% mine and completely honest.  I read the book, and really enjoyed it.

Save Your Marriage in Five Minutes a Day by Bonnie Jacobson and Alexia Paul (Book Review)

Book Description:
A happy marriage is within every couple's reach--all it takes is five minutes. In marriage, happiness is a state of mind that you can create together in mere minutes.


In this book, bestselling author and marriage expert Dr. Bonnie Jacobson shows you how to make each other happy with the small yet meaningful gestures that add up to a big difference--one day at a time. From turning your everyday interactions like housework and making dinner into playful bonding, these are psychologically sound methods that teach the both of you to bring out the best in each other--and your relationship. With this easy primer to marital bliss, not only will you strengthen your marriage in no time, you'll also learn how to keep it strong--and happy--for years to come.

My Review:
Save Your Marriage in Five Minutes a Day by Bonnie Jacobson and Alexia Paul is a book that offers "simple strategies to transform your relationship."


I was looking forward to receiving this book, not because I have problems in my marriage, but to see what ideas were offered and learn anything new to make my marriage that much better. Sadly, I was disappointed. This book does provide readers with basic ways to improve their relationship with their spouse. For couples who have been in a long-term marriages, this book can be a reminder on how to regain that closeness, though for those who are having a troubled marriage, this book may provide ways to begin communication and get past some conflict, but only a greater commitment to the marriage will help to restore trust.

The book is broken into helpful sections and addresses issues such as communication, children, physical and sexual relationships. I am not saying that every idea and suggestion in the book was a waste, I just did not feel that there were any earth shattering revelations that we have not heard on any afternoon talk show.

Overall, I would give this a 3 out of 5.

Disclosure:  I was provided with a copy of this book from Book Sneeze in exchange for my review. I was not required to submit a positive review.

How to be God's Little Princess: Royal Tips on Manners and Etiquette for Girls {Book Review}

Book Description:
A fun guide book for God’s little princesses.


What does it take to be a princess? Sheila Walsh has some important answers to share for every little girl. This trendy design features black & white line art and a two-color pink and black interior. The art will tie to each how-to topic in the book—how to make the best pink cookies, how to wear a tiara, how to earn money at home, how to care for a royal dog, how to be respectful, how to use good manners, how to help Mom, how to follow Jesus, how to act like a princess when things go terribly wrong, and many more.

My Review:I received the above book through my membership with Thomas Nelson’s Booksneeze blogger program. I receive a book for free and promise to give my honest opinion in exchange.

When I saw the title of this book, I knew my daughter, Kylie, would absolutely love it, and love it she did. The day I received the book in the mail, I placed the book on the table knowing she would come out and see it, though I should have saved to put in her Easter basket, that would have been an awesome gift.

Since then, each night, Kylie reads a few chapters to me and she answers the questions after each chapter to tell what kind of a Princess she is. This book not only teaches young girls how to be a Princess, but how to wear a tiara (which since birth, she has been doing just fine with that); how to perfect her poise, how to dine with royal success, how to sparkle like a princess, to being a police princess, to so much more. After each chapter, there is also a scripture to help your princess navigate through the Lord.

I would highly recommend this book. My daughter has brought this book to school with her to share with her friends. Every little girl already is a Princess, but to have a book that helps learn different aspects of being a Princess is that much better and to be a “hands on” book.

I love the fact that this book has brought additional “mommy/daughter” time to us. It is a definite bonding experience for us both.

The Velveteen Bible: By Thomas Nelson {Book Review}

A sweet addition to the Tommy Nelson Baby/Toddler Bible line, using an adorable image of a flocked velvet bunny.


Inspired by Baby's First Bible with the adorable fuzzy duck cover, this new offering for little ones, The Velveteen Bible features soft fur and a fuzzy tail! Inside, the New King James Version scripture is accompanied by whimsical images of bunnies and other baby animals, colorful borders, and lovely sentiments from the scriptures. The Bible is packaged in a keepsake treasure box.

To be quite honest, when I selected to review this book, I thought that it would represent more of a children's book, wherein larger words, stronger paper.  To receive a Bible of any sort is wonderful, especially a children's bible, other than the beautiful pictures showcased throughout the Bible, the wording is more for a parent to read or an older child.  I wanted to get this for my youngest daughter, who is 4, as I figure it is something we can read together and with the pictures, she would remain interested.  This book is not something I would allow for her to go through on her own as the pages, like the regular Bible, are very thin, delicate and with small hands, could easily be wripped.

This is a true Bible, not just a few stories in which I have seen in other books.  This is definately a book my daughter will have to enjoy and hopefully will pass on to her children one day to read, look at the pictures and enjoy.

This book also comes in a beautiful case, with a magnetic closure, captured with a fuzzy bunny on the front (the Velveteen Bunny).

I would definitely recommend the purchase of this Bible.  It is a great way to help get your kids to start learning about the Bible and teaching them about the religion.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review.

Adventures In BoogaBooga Land {DVD Review}

I was super excited when I opened my mailbox today to see the dvd I had requested to review had finally came.

Adventures In BoogaBooga Land:  Squid Sushi Loses His Marbles, The Parable of The Lost Pearl and Other Stories by Richard Milner.  Stories from the Parables of Jesus.

Description:
Based on the parables of Jesus, join Marty the monkey and Gerard the giraffe as they bungle their way through the paradise of Booga Booga Land inadvertently learning lessons that Jesus taught many years ago. Good Gimbo! Marty the monkey and Gerard the giraffe are back again with more exciting adventures, as they head out to recover treasure and save the day by catching the chocolate cake recipe thief. With another exciting episode, the parables of Jesus are presented in a clear, challenging, and engaging way that the whole family will enjoy. Follow Marty and Gerard as they become employees for 10,000 jobs.


Episodes include:
*Squid Sushi Loses His Marbles (The Valuable Pearl – Matt 13:45-46) *Wally the Waitor (The Weeds – Matt 13:24-30) *The Flaming Monkey (The Wedding Banquet – Matt 22:2-14)

 
Review:
My review was mostly based on my 4 year old daughter's reaction to the three short movies on the dvd.  The first movie, Swuid Sushi Loses His Marbles, actually teaches our children that there are bigger things in life than items you may have at home, treasurers to one may not be that to others.  The second show, Wally the Waiter is about someone being deceitful and the third, The Flaming Monkey is about people coming together.  The movie is very short, though it kept my daughter entertaining and she actually wanted to watch it again, so for that, it was worth watching.
 
I give this movie a 7 out of 10.
 
Disclosure:  I received the above-mentioned dvd through my membership with www.Booksneeze.com.  My opinions above are my own and 100% honest.

The Truth of the Matter {Book Review}

About the Book:
Charlie is certain that if he could just regain his memory, the chaos around him would make sense. But the truth of the matter is even more incredible than he could imagine.


Charlie West was an ordinary high school kid who went to bed one night and woke up in the clutches of terrorists and wanted by the police for murder. He also woke up with no memory of the events of the past year.

Now Charlie has found the one person who knows what happened . . . and who can help him remember. But remembering is painful--as well as dangerous--and figuring out what to do with this new knowledge may be Charlie's toughest challenge yet.

My Review:
The Truth of the Matter is Andrew Klavan's 3rd book in the young adult Homelanders series. Charlie West has a problem. The bad guys are trying to get him--and so are the good guys. But sometimes, when you need it the most, allies can come from the strangest places. And with his memories finally coming back to him bit by bit, Charlie is beginning to understand the truth of the matter.


Constant danger follows Charlie as he tries to avoid the bad guys, while determining who is a good guy that can help him. Charlie tracks down Waterman, a person he thinks can help him, but he is not sure.


The Truth of the Matter is a good suspense story. Charlie West believes in right and wrong and even though running for his life, he still stands up for what he believes in. Charlie also knows that trusting God is the only way. Finally, all the pieces of Charlie's past are beginning to come together for what is sure to be one of the most suspenseful books of all time.


I would highly recommend this book to anyone.

Disclosure:
I received this book free through my membership with Booksneeze for an honest review.  No monetary compensation was received.

Oliver's Labels {Review}

I was provided with an opportunity to review Oliver's Labels.  This could not have come at a better time as my daughter Emma is in all day Pre-K, and we have to label everything that she brings to school.  I had "animal" labels printed up with Emma's name on them.  When these came in the mail, I opened with Emma and she was delighted.  Not only have we been using these every day for school items, but Emma has also labeled her "sticker book" and a few of her bags in her room.

The quality and durability of the labels are long-lasting.  Your child will love the animation of the labels and be proud to have them on their items.  Be careful you don't let your child get a hold of the sheet of labels as if they are anything like my daughter, Emma, she has a tendency of putting stickers on her walls (I have wall stickies, which she thinks are stickers, so whenever she gets something sticky, on her wall it goes, and I have to peel it off hoping no paint comes off).

These labels are not your "basic" label, but a fun and pretty labels.  Emma absolutely loves showing them off to her little friends at school.

Oliver's Labels has many other items such as Waterproof Labels, Clothing Labels, Safety Bands, Bag Tags, Household Labels, etc.

Check out Olivers Labels and see if there is a product your child would like to "pep" up their items and make it easier for them to not lose their stuff.

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."]

REALLY WOOLLY BIBLE STORIES {Book Review}

My Review
This is an awesome book if you are having a baby, or if you are going to a baby shower.  This book is made to bring god into your baby/toddler's eyes through animation.  My daughter Emma, who is going to be 4, absolutely loved it, though asked millions of questions, though at this age she does.  This would be a great book to start out reading to your little one to begin their journey of god through the eyes of pictures gearing toward the Bible Story.

My daughter, Emma's, favorite story in the entire book was "Noah".  The story is explained in 4 short paragraphs, though enough to keep kids interested.

Noah

His name was Noah, his heart was good.

He built an ark of solid wood.

The animals entered, two by two,

The cockatoo, the kangaroo.

For forty days the rain came down,

Then God sent wind to dry the ground.

He placed a rainbow in the sky,

His colorful promise, way up high!

Book Resources

Really Woolly Bible Stories
By DaySpring
Published by Thomas Nelson

Book Description
Favorite Bible stories presented with the beloved Really Woolly art style help little children discover that God is faithful and true and that Jesus, The Good Shepherd, loves them.

This case-bound padded board book from the Really Woolly® brand by DaySpring® makes it easy to share important stories from God’s Word with little children, while teaching them about God’s shepherd-like love for them. Bible stories include Creation, Noah, Abraham, Moses, the Ten Commandments, Joseph, Samson, Daniel, David and Goliath, Jonah, Jesus’ Birth, Jesus Loves the Little Children, Jesus Feeds 5,000, Jesus the Good Smaraitan, Jesus Walks on Water, Jesus’ Death & Resurrection, The Great Commission. Little ones will love the charming Really Woolly® illustrations.

Illustrations by Julie Sawyer Phillips. Stories retold by Bonnie Rickner Jensen.


I would highly recommend this book. My daughter loves the pictures and the stories, and after I read it to her, she sat and read it herself, trying to write a story based on the picture and from what I read to her.

Disclosure:  **I recieved the book I reviewed free of charge from BookSneeze. No other compensation was received. My thoughts are 100% my own and others my have different opinions. A BIG thanks to BookSneeze for the opportunity to review this great book.**

The King's Christmas List {Book Review}

Through my membership with BookSneeze, I was given the opportunity to review The King's Christmas List.  What a great book.  I have read this book over and over to my daughter Emma.  She loves that the main character in this book has the same name, though not her dog, so I had to change Shu-Shu's name to Molly.

This book teaches young children about the true meaning of Christmas.  It is not about the presents or how many you get, it is about what you can do for someone, putting your heart and thought into the gift of helping someone out, rather than buying materialistic things.  What a great storyline for kids to learn at a young age.  Through teachings of parents and of course, a well written book, with some awesome pictures, this book is sure to please all, kids and parents.

While Emma was happy to help the people she met along the way to the Kings Birthday Party, she was also sad that she did not have anything to give the King as a present.  Once she learned that the people she met along the way were angels sent by the King, she was happy what she did.

For the month of December every year, I have a stack of "Christmas" books and every night, I have each one of my daughters pick out a book and we read it.  The book has to be about Christmas.  This book has now been added to that pile, and I can't wait to read it again. 

About the Book:
Emma couldn’t wait to go to the King’s birthday party, but what should she bring? Emma and her little dog Shu-Shu were thrilled to be invited to the King’s birthday party. But what do you get a King for his birthday? Emma and Shu-Shu have no gift, but they bring the Christmas cake they made with Mom and put on their Sunday best as they dash to the King’s carriage. And of course, Emma couldn’t go anywhere without her beloved Cherry-Bear. On the way, they have encounters that lead them to bestow their cake, winter-cape, and even Cherry-Bear, on others. Now they’re chilly, rumpled, and empty-handed—what will the King think? Emma frets, but when they finally meet the King at his palace, they discover they gave the King exactly what he wanted.


Children and parents will be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas, and that the greatest gifts we can offer to the Savior are gifts to the least of his brothers and sisters (based on Matthew 25:40). Families will be able to go online and be directed to notable charities to give their own gift to the King.

**I recieved the book I reviewed free of charge from BookSneeze. No other compensation was received. My thoughts are 100% my own and others my have different opinions. A BIG thanks to BookSneeze for the opportunity to review this great book.**

Between God & Me: A Journey Through Proverbs {Book Review}

I was recently given the opportunity to review "Between God & Me: A Journey Throug Proverbs", by Vicki Courtney. 

Between God & Me tackles tough issues any tween may face through fun interactive quizzes and exercises which helps open dialogue between girls and their parents.

This book is full of biblical principles on how to make the right choices that will lead to a long and happy life.  It teaches tween girls, entering young adulthood, that it is more important than ever for them to monitor theri own hearts to make virtuous choices.

I know growing up it was very difficult for me to open up and discuss issues with my parents.  I think it was out of fear.  We were a very close family; however, some things were just left unsaid. 

Obviously times have changed since I was young to the current generation and some families are more open to discussing issues with their tweens, whether it be peer pressure, teen pregnancy, puberty, R-rated movies, cheating on school work, sending provocative texts, etc.  A variety of issues are covered in this book.

One of my biggest issues with my daughter, Kylie, is that with tv and the computer, and generally just girls her age, I feel that she wants to be older than she is.  Mind you, she is only 8.  Vicki Courtney discusses how parents can put the brakes on their child(ren) rushing to grow up.  I have definitely learned some new techniques on how to talk to my daughter and teach her that it's ok to want to be older, but it is even better to be who you are, and enjoy the age you are.

I would recommend this book to all parents and young tween girls.

For more information about Vicki Courtney and her books, click here.

Disclosure:  I was provided a copy of the above-mentioned book to do a honest review.  I was not compensated at all.  All words and opinions are my own and I was not enticed to write a favorable review.

One Hand, Two Hands by Max Lucado {Book Review}

I have had the absolute pleasure of receiving One Hand, Two Hands by Max Lucado, a children's book.  My daughter was quite excited when I opened the box to pull out this book.  The pictures, the color, the illustration, it is truly amazing.  Each page was a new venture and teaching.  It held my daughters interest too.

Book Description:
A delightful way to show little ones how their hands are a blessing from God that they can use to do help others. Written in rhyming text and illustrated with the charming art of Gaby Hansen, this simple message of God’s blessing of hands not only entertains . . . as it teaches what wonderful things our hands can do from scratching, latching, and petting a pup to washing dishes with mommy and putting toys in a box . . . but it also conveys the important message: We can use God’s gift of hands to show our love for Him by helping others. The book ends tenderly with a prayer of thanks to God for hands and asks Him to use them again:

One hand, two hands,

Five fingers, ten.

God, thanks, for my hands.

Please, use them again.

This book is about a little girl who uses her imagination to bring her stuffed animals to life and join her in celebrating the many wonderful things that her hands can do.  It also shows the girl discovering her hands can also be helpers too - like, washing dishes with Mommy, even picking up socks, little hands can bless others as they wipe away a tear, write Grandma a letter or just give a hug to make someone feel better.  There is teaching and rhyming in this book.  My 3 year old loved it from the opening of the book to the closing.   

At the end of the day, with hands folded together the little girl prays: "One hand, two hands, five fingers, ten.  God, thanks for my hands. Please use them again."

With whimsical words,bestselling author Max Lucado shows how even the youngest of children can serve others - and how little helping hands bring joy to those being served, to your child, and to our heavenly Father, too!

For every page that we turned came a new teaching of what the little girl could do with her hands.  This book is a fun-filled imaginative, and learning book.  It captivates the childs interest with the story line of the animals coming to life and from there teaches how special their hands are and the many uses of them. 

This book has been a must read every night before my daughter goes to bed, and each night after we read the book, she clasps her hands together and recites the small prayer of being grateful for her hands and tells me everything she has done that day with her hands - it puts a huge smile on my face.

I would highly recommend this book. 

This book is Juvenile Fiction/Religious/Christian/Social Issues.  It sells for $16.99.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

POSH LITTLE TUTUS {Review}

My daughters are girly-girls wholeheartedly and love to dress up.  When we received, in the mail, the most beautiful tutu and hair bands for my daughters, Kylie & Emma from Posh Little Tutus, I do not know who was more excited, the girls or me. 

The stitchwork on the Raspberry Pettiskirt and matching headband are immaculate.  I am envious at the talent that was put into making these products.  Wow, what skills.  This is the best, biggest, most fun tutu I have ever seen. The color pops, the material is soft, non-itchy, and the joy it brought to my daughter, Emma, was priceless.  For hours, she danced around the living room.  I love watching my daughters dance and being happy.  This tutu brought that much more joy to the room.  For that evening, Emma was known as "Dancing Seniorita Emma".   When Emma twirled around the tutu got bigger and bigger, and each layer flaired out which looked absolutely beautiful. 

The matching headbands were sent for both of my daughters.  They both loved them!  The quality of the hairbands were unique.  Very sturdy and of great quality.

Even the packaging that the tutu and headbands came in was exquisite. There is alot of heart, soul and time put into these products at Posh Little Tutus.
Here are some pictures of my daughters enjoying their hair bands and tutu. 

Beautiful sisters with beautiful hair bands!

I couldn't pass up the opportunity of taking a picture with Emma in her beautiful tutu and hair band!

Check out Posh Little Tutus and look at Kelly's beautiful work.  I guarantee you will be rewarded with watching your daughter(s) hours of dancing if you purchase any of these beautiful products.

Posh Little Tutus offers a variety of posh and unique tutus.  I feel every little girl should own one of these tutus and be a Princess for a day (or all year if they want). 

You can also visit their sister site Tutus and Tiaras for other gorgeous products.

Disclosure:  A HUGE thanks to Kelly at Posh Little Tutus for providing a raspberry pettiskirt and matching headbands for my review.  Receiving these products did not alter my opinion.  My words are 100% mine and in no way was I enticed by receipt of same. 

RESURRECTION IN MAY by Lisa Samson {Book Review}

May Seymour graduated from college with the world at her feet and no idea what to do with it. A mission trip to Rwanda brought her a sense of purpose in loving others. So when the genocide began she chose to remain in the village, which was subsequently slaughtered. Only May survived.

Then May journeyed to heal on the farm of Claudius Borne, a sweet, innocent old man who understood plants and animals far better than people.

Years later, having not stepped a foot off Claudius' farm, May learns an old college flame, now a death-row inmate, is refusing to appeal his sentence. Can she convince him to grab hold of life once again? Their surprising friendship turns the tables, for the prisoner, Eli Campbell, has a deeper faith from which to draw than she. Eli slowly begins to pull May from her cloistered existence. With the help of Eli, their tiny town, and ultimately a renewal of faith, May comes to life once again.

This book is a story about faith, hope, love and second chances.  I really enjoyed this book. Lisa Samson brought her characters to life in a way that makes the reader feel emotions right along with them. Some sections are difficult to read because the pain and agony experienced is so explicitly written. I experienced all feelings throughout the book, laughter, tears, joy, worry, etc.  Each character was designed with many layers that were peeled back and exposed as the chapters progressed. This is a story that will have you examining your own life too. After reading the book, it’s easy to long for a simpler life, one where distractions are at a minimum and dependence on nature a necessity. I would definitely recommend this book and score it a 4 out of 5.

A Girl's Guide to Life by Katie Meier: Book Review

When I first received this book I was a bit leary as I do not have a teenage daughter, my oldest daughter is 8, a long ways from being able to read, yet understand the concept of this book.  Though, after reading this book, it is probably the best written book on exactly what the book is called, "A Girl's Guide to Life".

This book explains it all.  Questions that a teenage girl may have and wonder about, though may be scared, embarrassed or ashamed to ask.  This book answers all questions a teenage girl might be thinking though have no way of going about asking a parent or even an adult confidant. Questions about periods, puberty, body changes, gossip, boys, sex, etc., just to name a few.

To be quite honest, I wish there was a book like this when I was growing up.  I was never able to discuss anything with my parents, and I think that was of myself being afraid, not for them not wanting to talk to me about issues.  This book would have been the perfect resource to my questions.

I highly recommend that all parents definately look into buying this book for their pre-teen, teenage daughter, your daughter will thank you.

I will be giving this book to my niece, Samantha, as she is a 13 year old girl, with most, if not all, of the questions that are answered in this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

God's Promises for Girls: Book Review

Title: God’s Promises for Girls

Author: Jack Countryman & Amy Parker
ISBN: 978-1400315918
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Genre: Juvenile Religion
Published: May 25, 2010
Length: 128 Pages
Price: $11.04
Hardcover

From the Publisher

An easy way to help young girls see God’s promises and how they can rely on His love in their daily lives.

The promise verses in this book are selected from the best-selling International Children’s Bible® to offer comfort and encouragement when a girl is feeling afraid, lonely, worried, angry, dissatisfied, discouraged, sad, rebellious, impatient, or sick . . . and when they need reassurance of God’s protection, love, forgiveness, help . . . and that He listens when they pray. It’s a great way for children to hide God’s Word in their hearts.

Sample text: Monsters. Spiders. Being alone. Do any of these things make you feel afraid? When you start to feel fear, hold on tight to these words: God promises to take your fear away!

“So don’t worry, because I am with you. Don’t be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you. I will support you with my right hand that saves you.” Isaiah 41:10

I received and reviewed the book "God's Promises for Girls" by Jack Countryman and Amy Parker. The book itself is too cute! My girls are 3 and 7 years old.  My 7 year old just made her First Holy Communion, so this book was perfect timing for a gift. As soon as she received it, we both sat down to see what it was about. She LOVED it!  Her very own quotes, illustrations and words of encouragement from the scripture for young girls.  Her very own book that she can always look back on.  My daughters reads it before bed each night, at least a few versus.

Parents:  This, like I did, is the perfect gift for a young girl for her Communion, Birthday or just to say "I Love You".

I would definately recommend this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Reunion Island Coffee: Review/Giveaway

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Reunion Island Coffee. All opinions are 100% mine.

Reunion Island is a wholesale specialty roaster featuring gourmet coffee, espresso and tea, including organic and Fair Trade products. Our specialty is roasting 'perfect' whole bean coffee that looks as good as it tastes, however, we are also leading the industry in developing new formats like single cup coffee pods. We are a proud supplier to many of the finest cafés and restaurants in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and throughout Canada and the United States.

Reunion Island blends and roasts gourmet Arabica beans handpicked from the world’s finest growing regions. Our specialty coffees are imported from over 20 countries and offered as single origins or combined to create our signature blends, including Italian-style espresso. As a wholesale food service distributor, Reunion Island offers the coffee, tea and allied products that coffeehouses need to meet growing demand for Fair Trade, organic and other sustainable coffees. We are also the exclusive Canadian distributor for Victoria Arduino handmade Italian espresso machines.

Ahhhhh coffee, how I love thee. Coffee is an essential part of most peoples daily routine. At least I know it is in our house. Every night before bed, I get the coffee pot ready. Oh that special aroma to wake up to.

I was given the opportunity to try Reunion Island Coffee “Colombia Las Hermosas”, medium flavor. Before even opening the bag - the aroma that came from it was amazing.  Right there, I knew firstly, it was fresh, and secondly, I couldn't wait to open it and try.  The coffee was quite a surprise to me. The aroma was the first thing that drew my attention to this coffee. It was a floral-toned with hints of lemon and chocolate. The flavor was amazing for a medium coffee. Sweet, delicate and flowery, though definitely a powerful coffee. I do all my tastings black so I can get the full flavor of the coffee, but admit that after tasting this coffee, I did add a small amount of sugar and creamer. Both ways, delicious!

Giveaway: (1) Frugal Finds 4 Moms reader will receive “Reunion Island” coffee and travel mug.

How to Enter: Visit Reunion Island Coffee and tell me what product (coffee/tea) you would love to try! That’s all!  Click on the comments below this post and add your entries there.

Extra Entries: Once you do the above mandatory entry you can do any of the following an earn up to 3 more entries:

* Become a Follower of Frugal Finds 4 Moms
* Blog about this giveaway
* Sign up to receive my emails

Details: This giveaway is open to US residents only and will end May 28th at 11:59pm. The winner will be randomly picked and announced shortly after and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or I will randomly pick another winner.

Disclosure:  Reunion Island Coffee provided me with “Colombia Las Hermosas” medium coffee and a deluxe travel mug for my posting consideration and they will also provide the winner with the same. I was not compensated in any other way to write this post. My words are my own.

Classic Wisdom for the Professional Life By: Bryan Curtis

Do you know or have someone that has just graduated college? Better yet, got promoted? This book is for them. It is a book of quotes to help put your life into perspective. Quotes from famous and not-so-famous people, though regardless of who wrote them, they really are a great resource of motivation. I have a son graduating from high school and going to college. He has an idea of what he wants to do, but after reading this book, I believe it will put his choices into better respective. I enjoyed reading this very much and believe my son will too, as this will be a gift to him. I would recommend this book as the quotes give inspiration and are daily pick me uppers.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”