The Tuesday Talk 2/1

I would like to start a new weekly meme called The Tuesday Talk, where you make a post about what is going on with your life this week, and then we can link up here and see what others are up to and comment to them and maybe get some new friends and followers. So please join me and link up!

Well, my weekend was crazy busy. Saturday on the spur of the moment Jason decided to treat us to lunch at the new Cadillac Ranch restaurant at the Mall of America. What a cool place. Family friendly and great atmosphere. The service was a bit slow but I think that was because of two reasons. They were insanely busy plus our waitor kept flirting with the ladies at the table next to us. But the food was phenomenal. I had my first ever Minnesota Juicy Lucy and it was so so good! Some of my local friends tell me though that it is not the same as other joints in the Twin Cities that have a Juicy Lucy.

Saturday night we took the kids to spend the night over at Jason's brothers so he and I could go to a movie and the kids could visit with their cousin. Jason and I went to see The Mechanic. I love Jason Statham and the movie was pretty good. Sunday we spent the whole day helping Jason's mom move to her new place. Not fun moving in a Minnesota Winter, but we did ok. I was on kid duty basically anyhow. I did steal a few hours away and took my kids to see my parents since we were in the area. So that was fun.

Coming up this week, I have to type up Jason's thesis paper for him, do some laundry, and then we have a busy weekend ahead of us again. But do you know what I get to do on Friday night? I get Mama Time. Jason rented me a king suite with a whirlpool at a nearby hotel, and I get to go there and spend the night alone. 100% alone. Man, am I looking forward to this. I need it.

Be sure to link up with me so I can check out your posts. Also, look for a new Weekend What's Up meme that will post on Saturday's so you can link up and tell us what's up with you for the weekends!

SwimSpot *Giveaway*

Summer is closer than you think. I know it is hard to think of that in the thick of winter, but there is sun and beaches on the horizon, folks! And SwimSpot.com has all your swim wear needs! And one of my favorite features on the site is The Bikini Builder. You can choose your own style, designs, everything! It is way cool! The swim wear is by all the top fashion designers such as Hurley, Guess, Tommy Hilfiger, and Luxe. It is hard to choose just one suit I like best. But of course, I have to choose this one, since we are an Army Family!

But, really, since I like to be a little more covered up and wear a one-piece, this is the one I would choose!

SwimSpot.com is offering one lucky reader a $50 gift code to shop on their site! But don't despair if you don't win. You can get a $25 off coupon if you sign up to become a SwimSpot VIP HERE (their mailing list). Here is how to enter the giveaway!

1. Follow this blog.

2. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

3. "Like" SwimSpot on Facebook.

Giveaway ends February 7th. Good luck!

Spots Blind

Spots Blind by Linda A. Lavid

About The Book: You can't always see what's coming. Stories about being blindsided - sometimes by family, friends, and lovers; sometimes by our own refusal to see the truth. Praise for stories in Spots Blind: "The License Plate," which features a woman only just realizing that her seemingly perfect marriage is anything but, as her husband mocks the kind of intimacy she longs for. "A Father's Love," which initially seems to be a memoir of a happy childhood, quickly becomes something else. Lavid's treatment of sensitive subjects such as these is proof of her skill as a writer. -Tregolwyn Book Reviews. Linda Lavid takes ordinary situations and turns them into brilliant little gems of stories that examine the secret corners and surreal moments of life. Her style is engaging, her characters like people we encounter daily, and her plots - oh, her plots are so sublime. All in all a terrific read from someone who promises to master the classic short story and help rescue it from the tediousness of angst-ridden pointless short fictions that seem to be the rage today. Well done. -Gary Earl Ross, Edgar Award Winner for Matter of Intent. Focused around the singular human emotion - want and desire combined - this collection of stories had me thinking about human interaction, emotion, and my own desires. It is rare to find a modern writer who is capable of expressing human propensities in such clear, concise language, but Linda Lavid does just that. -New Great Books Review. Includes award-winning stories "The Accident" (from Best American Mysteries of 2003) and "DMV" (from Ascent Magazine)

My Thoughts: Definitely worth the read even if you don’t like short stories. I laughed, and I related to just about every story in here. A quick easy read. I’d love to see the author write something a bit longer.

About The Author: Linda Lavid is an award-winning author and writing teacher from Buffalo, New York. She has published stories, novels and writing guides. Visitors are welcome at her website, www.lindalavid.com

BUY this book on Amazon HERE.

I received a complimentary review copy of this from Goodreads.

The Attitude Girl

About The Book: Everyone thinks Vicky has an attitude problem, but in her eyes, she's simply being realistic and honest about what she thinks and feels. If people can't handle it, well... it's their problem. The novel recounts a young woman's coming of age, with a little bit of sassiness and a lot of heart. Jam-packed with emotional conflict, trials and tribulations, romance and humor, this winner of 8 literary awards follows outspoken, materialistic 17-year-old Victoria Benson on her rocky road to adulthood as she struggles with financial setbacks, bullying, first love, idealism, loss and forgiveness along the way. Raising children has never been easy... And guiding them through adolescence in our tumultuous modern world? Maddening! Today's teens want entertainment! What they need, however, is a little bit of guidance, especially given the challenges of the current US economy. Written for young adults, ages 15 and up, and their parents, The Attitude Girl is an inspirational, award-winning timely book that gives them both... Selected as the Best Young Adult Novel of the Year by the 2010 Premier Book Awards, The Attitude Girl also placed as a Finalist of the 2010 National Indie Excellence Awards, was named a First-place Winner in the Young Adult/Teenage category at the 2009 London Book Festival and in the Arizona Authors Association Annual Literary Awards contest (Novels), and additionally received four Honorable Mentions in 2009/2010 literary competitions.

My Thoughts: I loved this book and could not put it down. I do not have a teenaged daughter, but you know, I was one myself once upon a time. The story is very real, and Vicky is someone you know in real life. This book will make you laugh out loud, but it is reality, and that is what makes it so good.

About The Author: Born and raised in Odessa, Ukraine, a beautiful resort city on the Black Sea, Ludmila "Mila" Bernadkin emigrated from the former Soviet Union and came to the United States in 1977. In the USSR she graduated from the Brest Music College, with a BA-equivalent degree in theory of music and music literature, and accepted a teaching position at a children's music school. After moving to the States, she became a Senior Programmer-Analyst, working at several of the largest financial institutions in New York City. However, medical reasons forced her early retirement, and she realized her life-long dream of becoming an award-winning published writer. In her award-winning debut novel, The Attitude Girl, Mila Bernadkin draws on her experience as a teacher, mother and advanced graduate of the Institute of Children's Literature to identify with the tremulous world of confusing emotions and mixed messages of "maturity" today's teens live in as they feel their way through the process of becoming young adults. In 2008, Bernadkin's manuscript for The Attitude Girl became a First-place Winner in the Arizona Authors Association Annual Literary Awards Contest. That win resulted in a publishing contract with Five Star Publications, Inc., and the book was published in June 2009. Later, the book was named a First-place Winner in the Young Adult/Teenage category at the 2009 London Book Festival, placed as a Finalist of the 2010 National Indie Excellence Awards, was selected as the Best Young Adult Novel of the Year by the 2010 Premier Book Awards, and additionally received four Honorable Mentions in 2009/2010 literary competitions. Bernadkin resides in Brooklyn, New York, with her daughter, a graduate student at NYU, who is working on her Master's degree. Bernadkin loves to travel, listen to music and read.

Visit http://fivestarpublications.com/attitudegirl/index.html for more information.

BUY this book on Amazon HERE.

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author. Thank you, Mila!

Graveyard Mall Mystery Box

Do you know about Graveyard Mall Mystery Boxes? They are boxes you can order for around $20 and you never know what you will get. I saw people on Facebook raving about them, so I bought one when they were doing a Kitchen Mystery Box a few months ago, and when I got it, I was kind of disappointed. Mostly junk to me, and we ended up giving a lot to Goodwill. But I kept seeing people just rave and rave about them, so I gave it another go for the Christmas Mystery Box and was thrilled. So many cute ornaments and decorations that I will use for years to come. And with such good luck, I ordered two more Mystery Boxes, one I received today and one I am still waiting on to get delivered. I am awestruck at the one we got today. Here is a picture:

Ok, and so it is not the best pic, and it does not do this box justice, so here is a list of what was all in my Mystery Box:

2 Pillow Pets, a bumble bee one and a panda one

2 notebooks

1 purse

A 3-pack of woman's embroidered tank tops

A Jumbo Checkers game mat

2 Grafix Craft Kits for kids, a pom pom pets one and a spiral maker one

1 complete digital scrapbooking kit

12 packs of gum

2 candles

2 kids sunglasses

7 Be Fine brand skin care bottles (lotion, cleanser, night cream, etc.)

2 As Seen On TV Wireless Backup Sensors for cars

2 USB AA Battery chargers

2 hand sanitizers

1 off brand lotion

4 oil lamp rings

All for about $20 plus shipping. Amazing!!!!

Rise Above

About The Book: On a hot summer day in 1947, I was told I would not live to see my 13th birthday…Ralph Braun had two options: sit and wait for that prediction to come true or use those words as fuel to prove it wrong. He never gave a second thought to which path he would choose. The doctors who diagnosed Ralph with muscular dystrophy at the age of six and handed him his death sentence were wrong. Not only did he live to see his 13th birthday, but he founded BraunAbility, the world’s leading manufacturer of mobility vehicles. It wasn’t an easy road. When Ralph couldn’t rely on his own two legs anymore and he’d outgrown piggyback rides on his father s back, he began using a wheelchair. Life went on, and Ralph was determined to find a way to keep up with it. He wanted an education, a career, and a family, just like anyone else; he just had to work a little harder at it. First he invented a motorized scooter, the Tri-Wheeler, so he could conserve energy and keep his job as a quality control inspector at a nearby factory. When the factory moved a few miles from his home, he outfitted an old postal Jeep with hand controls and a hydraulic lift so he could have reliable transportation to and from work, no matter the weather. As his mobility increased, so did attention from the disabled community. Fifty years ago he was a young man in a wheelchair who needed to get to work. Today Ralph Braun is CEO of BraunAbility, the largest manufacturer of wheelchair accessible vehicles in the world. Capitalizing on the age-old saying Necessity is the mother of invention, Braun refused to let his disability hold him back and, in the process, brought independence and mobility to thousands. Rise Above tells the story of how self-reliance, common sense, and a refusal to accept the status quo led to one man’s triumph in business and in life. Ralph quickly realized an underserved and underappreciated market existed, and he developed a wide range of mobility products to meet its needs. While Ralph Braun’s story is a powerful example of true entrepreneurial spirit, this book is more than a successful business model. It is the story of Americas evolving attitude toward the disabled community. It is the story of the powerful love of parents determined to give their son every opportunity and chance to succeed in life. It is the story of discovering the unlimited potential within each of us, regardless of what obstacles we may face. No matter who the reader, this book offers something for everyone. Ralph Braun’s story is an inspiration to rise above any challenge.

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this book thoroughly. I was initially drawn to this book because of the help that BraunAbility has given to military veteran’s. But it goes so much more beyond that. One man takes his own disability and made it an ability. The ability to bring hope and liberation to thousands of people! It is an amazing story of an amazing man who created an amazing company. A very good read.

BUY the book on Amazon HERE.

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author, Ralph Braun. Thank you, Mr. Braun.

Malcom McDinkelstorm *Giveaway*

Malcolm McDinkelstorm Fedderman Stich by Peter Carnegie is an adorable kids book! The story line is perfect and the illustrations are amazing! Callan wanted to take this book to bed with him! Hee hee.

Malcolm needed a friend. So he went to the pet store where he met a long legged, pot bellied frog. Join Malcolm and his new friend as they use their imagination to discover adventure and friendship. 

BUY this book on Amazon HERE.

Want to win a copy of this book? Here's how:

1. Follow this blog.

2. Tweet about this giveaway.

3. Facebook post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends February 10th. Good luck!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author. Thank you Peter.

Instapeel

"The Instantpeel Natural Exfoliant is one of the most exciting, powerful yet gentle products on the market that is polluted with goods that promise beauty heaven, but deliver just a big price tag. This peel sticks to its promises, for a fraction of the money one would spend in a beauty salon. Instantpeel is easy to use while taking a shower. it is amazing how smoothly dead skin peels off without irritating healthy skin layers. After the short treatment, the skin feels soft and silky with a radiant complexion. I highly recommend Instantpeel to every one who desires younger and healthier looking facial skin."

This is really rather cool. I've used skin peel systems before, and this is just the same, but so much simpler and quicker. And I love how my skin feels afterward. It's pretty awesome.

Check out the Instapeel website HERE.

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. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Blizzard Blog Hop

Hello everyone coming in from the Blizzard Blog Hop! My name is Hayley and I am 31, married to my high school sweetheart Jason who is a Disabled US Army Vet (OIF/OEF). We have two amazing miracle babies, Callan who will be 3 in March (eeeks!) and Mason who turned 1 in October. I am a stay-at-home mama while Hubby uses his Post 9/11 GI Bill and gets his Bachelor's Degree. 

I know a lot of you are Military Wives coming from the Blizzard Blog Hop at Household 6 Diva and I still consider myself an Army Wife, even if we are veteran's now and no longer active. Once a solider always a soldier, and same goes for the wives.

We live in Minnesota, which is home to us, but I still miss Fort Hood, Texas which was my/our home for 5 years. It was where I grew up, and was on my own for the first time in my life ever, when Hubby was in Iraq, and we were cross country from any family.

I blog mostly about reviews and giveaways, and the occasional personal mumbo jumbo! I'm glad you stopped by! Thanks!

EZ Sox Deal

EZ Sox are so cool! I love them.

Our unique design helps your child put on their socks with ease. Reinforced loops give tiny fingers a strong grip for pulling over tiny toes.

Cute animal faces act as a guide, showing them which way is up.

Non-skid bottoms make EZ SOX safer on slippery surfaces.

Made seamless for sensitive toes.

EZ SOX comes in a variety of the cutest animals and solids.

EZ Sox has been endorsed by TV’s The Doctors, Parenting Magazine, Raising a Sensory Smart Child author Lindsey Biel, OTR/L, and Mommy and Me founder/child development specialist Dr. Cindy Nurik.

EZ Sox is offering my readers a 20% discount. Just put in the coupon code: EZ20 at the end of your order.

Little Green Books Review & *Giveaway*

Little Green Books are books for kids that are made from recycled material. And all the books have a "green" story. I sat down and read all of these books in one sitting with Callan, and he loved them! Great story lines for kids, great color and graphics! Very nice books! "Little Green Books is a new eco-friendly series from Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division. As our mission statement explains, each book in this series will be devoted to educating children about the benefits of being green."

This Is Our World: You can pitch in, too! Join the fun on this interactive journey while learning to clean the air, reduce pollution, recycle, and more. Nine double-sided puzzle pieces are included in this book so kids can create two different puzzles! This board book is printed on 70% postconsumer-waste recycled material.

What Do You See: Stephen Krensky's clever rhyming text entices young readers to guess which endangered species is hiding beneath each flap! From a panda bear to a butterfly, each spread features text and die cuts which hint at the animal's identity, until finally it is revealed by lifting the flap! Composed of 100% recycled material, this playful and interactive new title is both entertaining and educational!

My First Garden: Come along with a mother and daughter as they dig up soil, plant a flower bed, and water the seeds to make their very first garden. Together they watch the colorful vegetables grow, grow, grow! This book teaches a first concept of colors as well. The book has a handle die-cut through on every page so kids can take the book with them wherever they go!

The Polar Bear's Home: This 8 x 8 paperback book is perfect-bound and will be printed on 100% post-consumer waste recycled paper with soy-ink. The paper is FSC certified.

I Can Save The Ocean: Max the Little Green Monster is a cute, furry green monster that loves the outdoors (especially the beach), but Max and his friends don't like cleaning up after themselves! After a picnic on the shore, they leave a big mess behind and go scuba diving. Max is excited to meet lots of new ocean-swimming friends from crabs to colorful fish to an ink-squirting squid, but along the way he learns how his carelessness and littering may have harmed the beautiful ocean. The Little Green Monster then goes on a quest to clean and protect the beach and finds out what it means to be environmentally green.

Check out Little Green Books now for these and other great books! There's a section of downloadable activities on the site related to the books, which provide great additional resources for parents interested in sharing more lessons with their children.

Want to win all FIVE of these books? Here's how:

1. Follow this blog.

2. Tweet about his giveaway.

3. Facebook post about this giveaway.

4. Tell me what you and your family do to be "green".

Giveaway ends February 9th. Open to US and Canada only, sorry. Good luck!

I received Little Green Books for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Birds, Bees, Kids Review & *Giveaway*

Birds + Bees + Kids is everything you need to get the sex talks started! This engaging, empowering and helpful guide for parents of all beliefs will give you just what you need to get the conversations started with your children. Packed with information, simple scripts and a bonus sexual abuse prevention video, you will overcome your fears and get on with the birds and the bees talks! 

You can buy the DVD or watch it online (pay to view). It is a good video, and not boring or cheesy like some of the birds and bees talks/videos/books can be.

One winner will receive the online version of this DVD! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog.

2. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

3. Are you nervous to have the birds and bees talk with your kids?

Giveaway ends February 2nd. Good luck!

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. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

The Canker Spanker *Giveaway* 2 Winners!

The Canker Spanker is a new Homeopathic way to get rid of canker sores and even cold sores. Do you get the occasional canker sore, or a breakout of a bunch of canker sores? Have you tried prescriptions from doctors and home remedies and over the counter products, and nothing has worked? Well, now there is a solution. With The Canker Spanker, you can find relief. For the occasional canker sore and to prevent breakouts, take one pill a day. For a breakout, take two pills a day. Within 36 hours, your canker sore will be gone, or close to it (individual results vary). This product is even pharmacist recommended! Check out more about this product and others at thecankerspanker.com.

Want to win some Canker Spanker of your own to try? Here's how:

1. Follow this blog.

2. Tweet about this giveaway.

3. Facebook post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends February 8th. Good luck!

I received a Canker Spanker product in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

KidzBop 19 CD *Giveaway*

KidzBop 19 is the newest CD from the KidzBop series. KidzBop 18 was the #1 kids album in 2010, so you know KidzBop 19 is good! There are 16 songs on the CD, including the song "Magic" which features Hunter Pecunia who won the Kidz Star USA Talent Search (the biggest national talent search for kids 15 and under). I love this CD. Callan and I were jamming in the car to the songs. And he is getting to the point where he can sing along, and he kept saying "Play it again, Mama!"

The songs on the CD include: DJ Got Us Falling In Love, Firework, Just The Way You Are, Dynamite, Cooler Than Me, Airplanes, Club Can't Handle Me, Bulletproof, Animal, Just A Dream, Magic, Mine, Please Don't Go, The Time, The Only Exception, and Somebody To Love. KidzBop is the #1 kids music brand in the USA! Check out more about KidzBop HERE.

Want to win a KidzBop 19 CD? Here's how:

1. Follow my blog.

2. Tweet about this giveaway.

3. Facebook post about this giveaway.

4. What is your favorite KidzBop CD from the first 18 CD's?

Giveaway ends February 4th. Good luck!

I received a KidzBop product in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Gender Dictionary

About The Book: You already know men are from Mars and women are from Venus. Yet, knowing this doesn't prevent you and your partner from hurting each other with your miscommunication. Anger and relationship problems can arise from gender communication differences. More than 60% of relationship problems and gender issues result from gender communication differences (couples not understanding each others language.) This book, the world's first gender relationship dictionary, translates more than 70 words and phrases you regularly use that have very different meanings for your partner due to those gender communication differences. Understanding the real meaning of these words, as used in Male-ese and Female-ese, will rescue you and your partner from frustrating bickering and painful arguments. At last your good intentions will be heard!

Men, are you ever:

* Frustrated that no matter what you do for her, it's not enough?

* Baffled by why she just can't say what she means, why she's so indirect?

* Angry that you are supposed to know "I'm fine," usually means just the opposite?

Women, are you ever:

* Resentful that he doesn't really listen to you?

* Hurt and confused when he just walks out of the room – in the middle of an argument?

* Mad enough to scream when he persists in giving unsolicited advice – no matter how often you tell him you just want him to listen?

My Thoughts: This book can be a lifesaver. I’ve been in my relationship with my husband for 16 years now, and even still, this book helps. If you look at it together with your partner, or even separately and then later talk about it, you will get something out of it. I like the Personal Inventory List, it helps you discover what some of the major communication problems are in your relationship. I’ve only had this book a few days, and I’ve already devoured it, and it is all marked up with notes from me, and surprisingly, Jason. This book really helped us connect more, and we didn’t even know we needed to!

About The Author: To find out more about Dr. Karen Gail Lewis visit her website HERE. More about the book HERE. Other resources and websites to check out: Women's Retreat and Marriage and Relationship Counseling.

BUY the book HERE! Get your own! You won’t be disappointed!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author, Dr. Karen Gail Lewis. Thank you Dr. Lewis!

Roundabout Cupcake Sleeves!

That's a cupcake, not a hamburger. Really. Yes, really! How cool is that?

Product Description:

I'm a busy mom of two that invented a new product called Roundabouts® Cupcake Sleeves and began selling online in Feb 2009. They're wraps for cupcakes that transform standard cupcakes into virtually anything.

Using toppings easily found at a grocery or local party supply store, our decorative self-adhesive cupcake wrappers instantly transform cupcakes into popcorn tubs, gumball machine, sushi, and ice cream cones. Our wraps are resistant to grease an oily substance, are earth friendly, and wipe clean if things get a bit messy in the kitchen! We’ve even had customers wash and re-use them, adhering a second time with a dab of frosting.

We have 70+ Designs/Themes to choose from. We personalize, customize and have not only been featured on Rachel Ray Magazine, we are proud winners of the Most Innovative Exhibitor Award at the 2010 July CA Gift Show in Los Angeles.

Visit RoundaboutSleeves.com

Want to win a package of Roundabout Sleeves? Here's how:

1. Follow this blog.

2. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

3. "Like" Roundabout Sleeves on Facebook.

4. Follow Roundabout Sleeves on Twitter.

Giveaway ends January 30th. Good luck!

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. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

A Regular Guy Review & *Giveaway*

About The Book: A Regular Guy: Growing Up With Autism is a memoir about life with an autistic son, Matthew, written from his mother s perspective. It answers the many questions that people have about autism through the story of Matthew s life spanning from babyhood to young adulthood. A Regular Guy illustrates the many ways in which family, friends and strangers are touched by Matthew s desperate desire to be a regular guy, and how his brutal honesty and social awkwardness bring out the best and worst in people in touching and humorous ways. In turn, A Regular Guy leads readers to love and accept Matthew, quirks and all, and inspires them to understand and tolerate the differences in others.

My Thoughts: What a lovely book. I’ve learned a lot about Autism in the past, but more from the medical standpoint than from a family’s. This book is so touching and lovely; I could not put it down. When you read this book you don’t think “Oh, how sad, her son has Autism,” you think, “Wow, what an amazing strong family.” The way Shumaker tells her story is like she is sitting with you talking to you. Very nice memoir. Bless this family.

BUY this book on Amazon HERE.

Visit Laura Shoemaker’s website at http://www.laurashumaker.com/

Want to win a copy of this book? Here's how:

1. Follow my blog.

2. Tweet about this giveaway.

3. Facebook post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends February 1st. Good luck!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author, Laura Shumaker. Thank you Laura!

Two Great New Lifetime Shows

The half-hour unscripted series “Seriously Funny Kids,” hosted by supermodel and supermom Heidi Klum (“Project Runway”) will debut on Tuesday, February 1, at 9 pm et/pt with back-to-back episodes. “Seriously Funny Kids” will feature Klum interacting with children and bringing out the hilarious and often insightful things they say. Lifetime has ordered 20 half-hour episodes of the program, which will be produced by LMNO Productions, with Klum, Eric Schotz (“Kids Say the Darndest Things,” “I Get That a Lot”), Desiree Gruber (“Project Runway”) and Jane Cha (“Project Runway”) and JoAnn Alfano, Gena McCarthy and David Hillman of Lifetime Television serving as executive producers.

“Someone once said ‘Never work with children and animals’ … so I decided to drop the animals and stick with the kids,” says Klum. “Naptime, playtime and snack time are my favorites, so is it any wonder that kids and I get along so well? I have four children under the age of six, and to be honest, sometimes I enjoy them more than adults. They’re uncensored, unpredictable and absolutely hilarious. The kids will be the absolute stars of this show.”

In eight hour-long episodes, the hospital docu-series “One Born Every Minute” takes an in-depth look at life inside the maternity ward at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, as expectant mothers enter their final stage of pregnancy. From the delivery room, to the operating room, to the front desk, to the nurses’ station, 40 cameras roll 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to capture the high drama, humor and overwhelming emotion of childbirth as new lives begin and others change forever.

Based on the popular U.K. format, “One Born Every Minute” is produced by Reveille Independent, with Elisabeth Murdoch (“MasterChef”), Howard T. Owens (“MasterChef”), Daniel Soiseth (“America’s Next Top Model”), Robin Ashbrook (“Live to Dance”), Shelley Schulze (“Trauma: Life in the ER”), Sanjay Singhal (“The Event: How Racist Are You?”), and JoAnn Alfano, Gena McCarthy and Sandy Varo Jarrell of Lifetime Television executive-producing. For more information on Riverside Methodist Hospital, visit www.birthofamom.com. 

For more on these and other great shows, visit MyLifetime.com and don't forget to watch these shows or set your DVR's!

I was able to watch an advanced screener of Seriously Funny Kids in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Taken From Me Lifetime Movie

"Taken From Me: The Tiffany Rubin Story” is based on a dramatic true story of Tiffany Rubin’s (Taraji P. Henson) daring 2008 rescue of her seven-year-old son, Kobe, after he was abducted by his biological father and taken from his home in Queens, New York, all the way to Seoul, South Korea. At the urging of her mother Belzora (Beverly Todd), Tiffany sought the counsel of Mark Miller (Terry O’Quinn) and his charitable organization, The American Association for Lost Children. With Mark’s help, Tiffany was able to travel to Korea to execute a high-stakes plan to bring her son home. 

I remember hearing about this on the news when it happened. What an amazing story, and an amazing mom. But wouldn't we all do the same to get our babies back? This is a great movie and I highly recommend that you all watch it on Lifetime when it airs Monday, January 31st at 9pm (et/pt). If you can't watch it, then DVR it so you can watch it later. It is worth it!

After the movie on Monday, January 31st, Lifetime will air the true story documentary called Beyond The Headlines: The Tiffany Rubin Story.

For more about the movie and other great shows visit MyLifetime.com.

I received an advanced screener DVD in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Mardi Gras Printable Pack

 Mardi Gras is March 8th this year. So you better start planning your party now! With Python Printables, you can have a great party!

"Our printable Mardi Gras Games pack is superb entertainment, not just at Mardi Gras, but for a Mardi Gras birthday or masked ball-themed party!

The pack includes 20 printables, including masks, a scavenger hunt, Spot the Difference, paper dolls and a coloring nutrition game for kids; and loads of great activities for teen-adult players.

At just $19.95, this pack takes care of all your Mardi Gras entertainment needs."

Go get your Mardi Gras Party Pack HERE. 

Some FREE printables are HERE.

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. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Pocket Skethches *Giveaway* 3 Winners

"Inspiration often strikes on the move and after years of drawing mock-ups on napkins, coasters, human appendages and anything one can dry ink on, we had a better idea. So we drew that idea on a napkin and handed it to Amy Lamp at Forty. She then drew her idea about our idea on some proper paper. Then it went into a computer and through a printing press. Now our idea can go with us (and YOU) wherever we go so that new ideas can be drawn up freely."

Check out more at PocketSketches.com

Win a Pocket Sketch pad of your own! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog.

2. Tweet about this giveaway.

3. Facebook post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends January 29th. Good luck!

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. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

Love's First Bloom

About The Book: Ruth Livingstone's life changes drastically the day her father puts a young child in her arms and sends her to a small village in New Jersey under an assumed name. There Ruth pretends to be a widow and quietly secludes herself until her father is acquitted of a crime. But with the emergence of the penny press, the imagination of the reading public is stirred, and her father's trial stands center stage. Asher Tripp is the brash newspaperman who determines that this case is the event he can use to redeem himself as a journalist. Ruth finds solace tending a garden along the banks of the Toms River - a place where she can find a measure of peace in the midst of the sorrow that continues to build. It is also here that Asher Tripp finds a temporary residence, all in an attempt to discover if the lovely creature known as Widow Malloy is truly Ruth Livingstone, the woman every newspaper has been looking for. Love begins to slowly bloom...but is the affection they share strong enough to withstand the secrets that separate them?

My Thoughts: This was quite an interesting read. I was gripped, wondering and wanting to know what would happen next, and what the fate of Ruth would be. I enjoyed the aspect of the media in this book, it allows you to learn a bit about how people learned the “news” in the early days of journalism. This is the first book of Parr’s that I have read, and I like the easy pace she writes at, and the story just flows along. Nice book!

About The Author: With prestigious credentials such as the Laurel Wreath Award for Historical Romance, Romantic Times Award for Best First Book, and the Aspen Gold Award for Best Inspirational Book, author Delia Parr endears herself to critics and readers alike. Delia is the author of fifteen historical novels who now devotes herself to writing inspirational historical romance. The mother of three grown children, she is a full-time high school teacher in southern New Jersey who spends her summers writing on Anna Maria Island in Florida.

BUY this book from Bethany House HERE.

BUY this book on Amazon HERE.

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Bethany House.

Cinch! *Giveaway*

There are no calories to count; no points or grams to memorize. Just begin choosing four daily meals from over one hundred delicious options (along with a mandatory daily chocolate escape), and you're well on your way to achieving your weight-loss goals. In thirty days on the Cinch! plan, you'll shed pounds and inches—and overcome emotional eating in the process. Acclaimed weight-loss expert Cynthia Sass has arrived at the exciting secret to sustainable weight loss: her innovative combinations of clean, nutrient-rich foods not only maximize fat-burning but also deliver a faster, healthier metabolism forever. Following the plan is as simple as putting together an easy-to-understand fivepiece puzzle at every meal and enjoying four delicious, easy-to-prepare meals in addition to a chocolate treat. The Cinch! plan includes a full thirty days' worth of quick-fix, satisfying meals and teaches you a simple strategy for creating your own, so you know exactly what, how much, and when to eat, whether you're at home, at a restaurant, or on vacation. Cinch! makes weight loss simple, with meals you'll look forward to eating (no "diet" foods). And best of all, Sass starts her plan with an innovative five-day "Fast Forward," which jump-starts the plan's impressive results and will leave you feeling lighter and healthier. If you've been trying to eat more clean, natural, and organic foods, but have lacked the structure needed to lose weight, this is the exact plan you've been waiting for. Cinch! includes every tool you'll need for weightloss success: Sass's proven plan, expert tips and advice, daily journals, grocery-shopping lists, chapters on exercise and emotional eating, and a month's worth of recipes—customizable for meat eaters, vegetarians, and vegans. You'll enjoy Chocolate Pear Ginger Smoothies, JalapeÑo Guacamole, and Chicken Pesto Pitas—to name just a few luscious Cinch! options! Best of all, Cinch! weight loss is lasting weight loss. In one month, you'll recalibrate your body, freeing yourself from cravings and erratic eating, and begin a satisfying new relationship with food. With Sass's expertise behind you, you'll be empowered to continue creating Cinch!-friendly meals and feel inspired by a wealth of new eating habits—making this so much more than a diet.

Win a copy! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog.

2. "Like" us on Facebook HERE.
3. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends January 28th. Good luck!

Vacation Plans?

Now that the holidays are over, what is there left to look forward to? Summer time, and vacations!!!! Yay! Aren't these suitcases cute? They are some items from the Delsey Luggage line. Buy some cute new luggage, and take it with you on a fabulous vacation! This summer we are not going far, not even leaving the state, but we are going away, and I am so excited! Cabin fever is setting in! Where are you going on vacation this summer?

Check out these suitcases and other luggage at Luggage.com, one of the many stores you can find on CSNStores.com! In the near future look for me to be talking about more great items from CSN!