Saturday, April 30, 2011

The Guitar Player And The Lady Killer

The Guitar Player And The Lady Killer by Zola Lawrence

About The Book:
From the author of Virgins! A Memoir of the Sexual Revolution comes Zola Lawrence's psychological and crime story, The Guitar Player And The Lady Killer: Partially Inspired by the 1976 Chicago Columbo Murders. It isn't a romance, although two couples meet and fall in love. It isn't a thriller, although a few people are murdered. It isn't a hippie chronicle although sex, drugs, rock'n roll, and New Age talk play background in the four lovers' lives. It isn't pornographic, although graphic sexual descriptions appear as character development. So what is The Guitar Player And The Lady Killer? A stirred and mixed blend of making music, making love, and killing others. 

My Thoughts:
This story is different from any other story I have ever read. But, I think different in a good way. There is a lot of drug talk in the book, but that was the times then - in the 70's. I like the dialogue in the book, it makes it more real. The characters are all greatly developed, and all could be someone we know. I like the mystery of this book, wondering what is going to happen next. I could not put this book down. Very nicely done.

About The Author:
Zola Lawrence earned an MFA in Creative Writing and was a secretary for 10 years, then a university teacher in the States while writing. Two years after completing Virgins! in 1982, she began teaching overseas and writing The Guitar Player And The Lady Killer. She has taught in Arabia, Asia, Europe and the USA. Lawrence has begun a travel book while she continues to live overseas.

BUY this book on Amazon HERE.


I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Medium Next Door *Giveaway*

The Medium Next Door by Maureen Hancock

About The Book:
At just five years old, Maureen Hancock discovered her ability to communicate with the dead. Descended from a long line of legendary Irish mystics, she was no stranger to the spiritual realm, but for fear of being misunderstood by her friends and family she kept the otherworldly messages to herself, eventually suppressing them completely. Maureen wouldn't hear the spirits again until she was in a near-fatal car crash. Soon after, she had hundreds of voices in her head, many of which helped her crack cases and expose fraud in her role as a litigation paralegal at a large Boston law firm. Then, when tragedy struck on 9/11, Maureen was bombarded with messages from the spirit world. As each one made contact with her, she finally came to terms with her calling: to communicate with the deceased, assist the dying, search for missing children, and teach the living about life after death, all the while raising her children in her suburban home. Maureen Hancock is literally is the Medium Next Door, and in this book and through her stories of her encounters with the otherworld, as well as guided exercises at the conclusion of each chapter, she offers the same comfort and wisdom she shares in her healing encounters and lectures about what is out there waiting for all who are open to its mysteries. . . .

My Thoughts:
How do you not love this book? It is a bit of a memoir and a bit of teaching/learning tool into the world of mediums. The book is funny and serious. I love it. I could not imagine living the life that Maureen does - exciting, scary, and satisfying all in one. A very interesting book that will have you "oohhing" and "ahhing".

About The Author:
Maureen Hancock is a nationally renowned spirit medium, teacher, lecturer, and holistic healer; and has spent the last ten years using her ability to give back. She is co-founder of two non-profits; Seeds of Hope, holistic care for cancer patients and support for parents who have lost children; Mission for the Missing, providing assistance and equipment in missing children and adult cases. Maureen is an associate member of the Licensed Private Detective Association of Massachusetts. She has been featured in numerous articles and can be heard on radio stations around the country. Additionally, Maureen has appeared in the Fox talk show, Wedlock or Deadlock and is currently developing her own reality television show with ABC/Disney, and the Executive Producers of the Ghost Whisperer; Sander/Moses Productions. Maureen resides in a small town south of Boston, Massachusetts with her husband, two children and chocolate lab, Ally. For further information about Maureen, her appearance calendar, or to subscribe to her free e-mail newsletter, visit: www.maureenhancock.com

BUY this book on Amazon HERE. Releases May 2nd.


How To Win:

1. Follow this blog.
2. Sign up for the email newsletter for this blog.
3. Tweet about this giveaway and use @callansmama
 
Giveaway ends May 7th. Good luck.

I received complimentary review copies of this book from both the publicist and the publishing company. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Friday, April 29, 2011

A Cowboy's Touch

A Cowboy's Touch by Denise Hunter

About The Book:
Abigail is just in Moose Creek, Montana for the summer to temporarily care for her great aunt. But a tender-hearted cowboy beckons her to stay. Abigail Jones intends to spend just one summer in middle-of-nowhere Montana with her Aunt Lucy. Time away from her job is just what Abigail needs to reassess her life. The slow pace has her breathing deeply for the first time in years. And the majestic scenery encourages her to get reacquainted with herself . . . and God. What she didn't count on was the handsome widowed cowboy who owns the ranch where her aunt lives. When the rancher loses his daughter's nanny, Abigail decides to lend a hand for the summer. Wade Ryan can't help being attracted to Abigail. But he's given up everything to protect his daughter, and he's not about to risk it all on a pretty face. Under Abigail's care, Wade's home and daughter thrive. And with Wade's touch, Abigail's heart feels at home at last. But Abigail knows this elusive rancher is hiding something. Will her own secrets separate her from the cowboy who finally captured her heart?

My Thoughts:
I had read one book by Denise Hunter before (Sweetwater Gap) and enjoyed that book immensely, and this one does not disappoint. I must admit I was kind of expecting a more lovey dovey gooey romance, because of the title, but it really is not like that at all. Of course there is the romance and sweetness, but there is so much more to this story. A little bit of a mystery, and a lot of intrigue to keep you hooked until the end.

About The Author:
Denise Hunter is the nationally published author of bestsellers Sweetwater Gap and Surrender Bay. She has won The Holt Medallion Award, The Reader's Choice Award, The Foreword Book of the Year Award, and was a RITA finalist. In 1996, inspired by the death of her grandfather, Denise began her first book, writing while her children napped. Two years later it was published, and she's been writing ever since. Her husband says he inspires all her romantic stories, but Denise insists a good imagination helps too! When Denise isn't writing she's busy raising three heroes-in-the making with her husband. You can learn more about Denise through her website www.DeniseHunterBooks.com or by joining her FaceBook group at www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=124248046980

BUY this book on Amazon HERE.


I received a complimentary review copy of this book from The B&B Media Group. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Foto Find Friday 4/29

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Something Borrowed Movie Screening

I went to see an advanced movie screening of Something Borrowed last night. Here's the synopsis: "Rachel (Ginnifer Goodwin) is a talented attorney at a top New York law firm, a generous and loyal friend and, unhappily, still single…as her engaged best friend Darcy (Kate Hudson) is constantly reminding her. But after one drink too many at her 30th birthday party, perpetual good girl Rachel unexpectedly ends up in bed with the guy she’s had a crush on since law school, Dex (Colin Egglesfield), who just happens to be Darcy’s fiancé. When Rachel and Darcy’s lifelong friendship collides with true love, it leads to unexpected complications and potentially explosive romantic revelations. Meanwhile, Ethan (John Krasinski), who has been Rachel’s constant confidante and sometimes conscience, has been harboring a secret of his own, and Marcus (Steve Howey), an irrepressible womanizer, can’t keep his mind out of the gutter or his hands off any girl within reach."

It was a pretty good movie and I am glad I was able to go see it. It tended to run a little long it seemed, but it was not boring at all. John Krasinski was fabulous in this movie, and of course Kate Hudson shined as she always does. The movie comes out in theaters May 6th. I highly recommend you go see it. Maybe for date night!

Barely There Dreamform Bras



I got to test out a Barely There Dreamform Bra from BzzAgent. Barely There is an awesome brand. Here's more about them:

"Hello. We're Barely There intimates. We make bras, panties and shapewear that are ruffle, wrinkle, crinkle, line, tag and seam free. So they not only look and feel great on you, but under your clothes, too. And isn't that what really matters anyway? The way you feel when you're wearing Barely There® intimates is the key difference between Barely There® intimates and other intimate apparel brands. Barely There intimates is all about making you perfectly comfortable. So, what does all this mean for you? For panties, it means super-soft, luxurious fabrics that don't ride up and non-binding waist and leg bands that won't dig in. For bras, it means beautiful smooth shapes that never pull or ride up, flexible underwires that are cushioned against your skin so they won't pinch or bind, microfiber-backed lace and straps that won't itch and rounded hooks and eyes that won't irritate. Of course, all Barely There products are tagfree for the ultimate in comfort!
Why be there when you can be Barely There?"

The bra was super comfortable, and it had "no show" protectors so that no one would know if I was....cold. Heh.

Check out Barely There and get the right bra for you!


I received products from BzzAgent and Barely There. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Yandy.com - Slight Adult Content

"Support the troops in this sexy, plus size, halter neck camisole with camouflage print cups, mesh bodice and matching mesh thong panty." 

How cute is this? It is called For Our Boys and it is from Yandy.com. I love it and am so glad I was able to review it. Of course, you know, since it is a military themed outfit, I adore it. And also, I struggle to find cute lingerie that fits me well. And this does! And I even felt sexy in it. And Jason liked it, so that says it all!

Yandy.com has a lot of nice and sexy stuff. Bra and panty sets, dresses, costumes, and even swimwear, and more! I am hooked on their panties, and in fact just finished placing an order! Woo hoo! Check out all the great items at Yandy.com.

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

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Harvesting Happiness For Heroes

Sgt. Andy Brandi, renown Vietnam Marine combat veteran, author of A Warrior’s Guide to Insanity, public speaker, and 35 year survivor expert on Combat Stress, recently announced his decision to join the Advisory Board of Directors for the Harvesting Happiness for Heroes Organization, led by respected international documentary filmmaker, philanthropist, motivational speaker, and happiness expert Lisa Cypers Kamen.

Highly regarded and trusted by ground troops in the field and the Military’s elite, as a resource on issues affecting combat veterans, Brandi’s support of Kamen’s upcoming Harvesting Happiness for Heroes Campaign lends further credibility to the Campaign’s mission; healing the deep wounds and scars carried by returning combat soldiers, transforming the combat experience into stigma-free personal growth and effective daily life reintegration. As a rising player among industry insiders, Kamen has quickly earned a reputation as a powerful force on the front lines of the battle for specialized Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and post deployment reintegration programs. Brandi, whose book was “recently approved by The Department of Veteran Affairs for distribution to all Vet Centers around the country as a “clinical tool”, announced his decision to unite with Kamen after his Jan. 19th interview on her radio show Harvesting Happiness. Brandi’s interview revealed a candid synopsis of dealing with combat stress related issues, and the undeniable need for a personal re-discovery of happiness within post combat troops.

As a member of the Advisory Board of Directors, Brandi will work with Kamen to focus on repairing veteran soldiers ability to; trust loved ones, discuss experiences, find effective methods to measure healing, reintroduce incremental steps for self-taught happiness and teach methods for allowing contentment to grow in the face of personal, mental and physical combat wounds. Although the term Wounded Warrior is often used to describe a physical affirmation of the trauma and brutality of war for combat veterans, the Harvesting Happiness for Heroes campaign is broadening that definition, to focus on the emotional and mental scars of the returning soldier. Kamen’s organization aims to bring further awareness to those unattended invisible wounds of combat life that can surface as chronic physical pain, insomnia, depression, domestic violence and/or substance abuse, confirming the collateral damage of post deployment stress. “Sometimes it’s easier to heal from a visible change in ourselves or loved ones, but it’s the invisible challenges of a combat situation, that have a lifetime of recovery with an unspoken social expiration date. With the right set of keys, the darkness of a post combat soldier’s world can be lifted, unlocking newfound moments of joy in life,” States Kamen.

Kamen’s official introduction into the world of philanthropy came with the release of a 10 minute documentary reflecting her journey through India, titled A Passage Through India - Diamonds in the Rough, which helped to fund the Sulaxmi School for Girls in Lucknow, India. Kamen’s latest documentary film, H-Factor. . . Where is your Heart?, was co-produced with her now thirteen year old daughter. While researching her graduate thesis in psychology, Kamen cycled through Rajasthan, India in 110 degree heat, and witnessed an undeniable spirit of joy among the country’s impoverished citizens, inspiring her work as a filmmaker. Kamen’s film work, speaking reputation, personalized coaching and university teaching, has led to wide-spread recognition in her field, garnering interest in her happiness workshops from audiences across the nation. The support of Sgt. Brandi in expanding Kamen’s work to Military veterans and their families is a clear sign that Harvesting Happiness for Heroes, is offering soldiers coping with combat stress, the support needed to win their internal war. “I am delighted to have the support of such an honored figure as Sgt. Brandi for this Campaign. He is living proof of renewed life for those soldiers fighting the after-effects of war,” states Kamen of Brandi’s involvement. Brandi joins five other Advisory Board members as they prepare for the official Harvesting Happiness for Heroes campaign kick-off of in April.

About Lisa Cypers Kamen:
Harvesting Happiness is a national radio show hosted by author, filmmaker and spiritual psychologist, Lisa Cypers Kamen. Kamen’s show, produced by on-line talk radio network Toginet.com, will make her guests’ stories, personal research discoveries, and workshop content available on a weekly basis to a national listening audience, and hopes to raise awareness for the important role that happiness plays in a long and healthy life. As a filmmaker, Lisa explores how people in varied circumstances find, generate and share happiness. Lisa also travels the globe presenting her film as a teaching tool in Harvesting Happiness workshops and seminar series within public and private sectors including New York City Parks and Recreation, Equinox Fitness and Motherhood Incorporated. In addition to her film on happiness, Lisa has also published a number of articles, is currently working on a book on the subject which will be released in 2011. Lisa resides in Los Angeles, California with her family where she is an avid philanthropist, with an expanding demand for her happiness workshops nationwide. Kamen is currently seeking ongoing corporate sponsorship of her campaign, to better and consistently serve the military community and the public at large. Please visit www.HH4Heroes.org for more information.

About Sgt. Andy Brandi:
Sgt. Andy Brandi is a Marine Corp Vietnam Veteran of Chu Lai and Hotel Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, where he learned and continues to live by the value of the Warrior’s Code in all facets of his life. An unknowing survivor of severe Combat Trauma, Sgt. Brandi retired from service in 1969, and was later diagnosed with PTSD, otherwise known as Combat Fatigue (seeing or participating in too much war). Sgt. Brandi was recently recognized as an approved resource by The Department of Veteran Affairs for his book, A Warrior’s Guide To Insanity, which was distributed to all Vet Centers around the country as a “clinical tool”, a communication bridge between the Combat Veteran and the clinician. He has traveled internationally to visit with soldiers in the field and returning combat troops, where he has offered public insight and management methods for PTSD sufferers. Recently he announced his involvement with Lisa Cypers Kamen’s Campaign Harvesting Happiness for Heroes. When asked to describe the purpose of his mission over the years, Brandi famously states, “For my Brother and Sister Warriors, Their Families and Their Loved Ones. SEMPER FI!”

ShirtsThatGo.com

ShirtsThatGo.com is one of the most awesome sites to find tees for kids who love vehicles and things that "go" like trucks, planes, and trains. Callan loves all these things, and more. So when we were offered a tee for each boy, we were overjoyed. Callan got a firetruck tee, which let me tell ya, made his day! And Mason got a semi-truck trailer tee. The photo above is after I washed them and as you can see, the color and graphics hold up amazingly well. Callan would wear a shirt every single day that had a truck or a train on it if we let him, and with ShirtsThatGo, we can make that happen with really cool vehicles! The t-shirts are American Apparel tees and they are a really nice quality, and will last a long time. And that is good, since Callan wants to wear his shirt over and over and over....

I received products from ShirtsThatGo.com in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Smelly Washer Review & *Giveaway*

"What Is Smelly Washer?
It's 24 treatments (up to a 1 year supply) of all natural washer cleaner that safely and easily removes odor from any washer. Our advantages include:
* 24 treatments compared to 1-3 from competitors!
* We're completely natural! Why clean with strong chemicals!
* After we clean your washer our products safely and easily remove mildew odor from towels and clothing!
Are you fed up with laundry smelling like mildew? Are you tired of musty, moldy or sour odor in dish towels and linens? Smelly Washer products are the solution!"

You wouldn't think that a machine that you use to wash things in would smell. I mean, it washes all the time, right? Why would it be dirty and smell? Because it uses water, and anything that uses water does tend to get mildewy and even moldy after awhile, and needs to be properly cleaned. This is where Smelly Washer comes in. You use it every few weeks, or even only once a month, and you will have cleaner and nicer smelling clothes! Run an empty load using Smelly Washer, and then you are good to go.

Want to win a bottle of Smelly Washer? Here's how:
1. Follow this blog.
2. "Like" Smelly Washer on Facebook.
3. Follow Smelly Washer on Twitter.
4. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends May 4th. Open to US and Canada only, sorry. Good luck!

I received a product from Smelly Washer Inc. in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

WicksnCandlesticks Review & *Giveaway* 2 Winners



WicksnCandlesticks is a site that offers gift baskets and party favors for a variety of events. I was lucky enough to receive two t-shirts from Carla. One is a Birthday tee, and the other is a Family Reunion tee. The photos above are after I washed them, so you can see that the color and designs hold up really well. The colors and graphics are very nice. And the quality of the t-shirts is great too! It's so much fun to wear cute tees that mean something to you and you can save forever if you want! The site does a lot of great things for weddings too, and has been featured in Get Married magazine!

One reader will win a t-shirt, and one reader will win a door decal! Here's how to win:

1. Follow this blog.
2. Tweet about this giveaway and use @callansmama
3. Fan me on Facebook 
4. Follow WicksnCandlesticks on Twitter.
5. "Like" WicksnCandlesticks on Facebook.

Giveaway ends May 3rd. Good luck.

I received products from WicksnCandlesticks in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

In Zanesville Review & *Giveaway*

In Zanesville by Jo Ann Beard

About The Book:
The beguiling fourteen-year-old narrator of In Zanesville is a late bloomer. She is used to flying under the radar - a sidekick, a third wheel, a marching band dropout, a disastrous babysitter, the kind of girl whose Eureka moment is the discovery that "fudge" can't be said with an English accent. Luckily, she has a best friend, a similarly undiscovered girl with whom she shares the everyday adventures of a 1970s American girlhood, incidents through which a world is revealed, and character is forged. In time, their friendship is tested - by their families' claims on them, by a clique of popular girls who stumble upon them as if they were found objects, and by the first, startling, subversive intimations of womanhood. With dry wit and piercing observation, Jo Ann Beard shows us that in the seemingly quiet streets of America's innumerable Zanesvilles is a world of wonders, and that within the souls of the awkward and the overlooked often burns something radiant and unforgettable.

My Thoughts:
I love the dialogue in this book. It really helps make it "real" and takes you there. It makes me remember back to my girlhood days, of friends, boys, high school. I laughed out loud so often reading this that Jason would actually come in and ask me what was so funny. Not only is this book funny, it is suspenseful. You can't wait to find out what will happen next!

BUY this book on Amazon HERE.

Want to win a copy of this book?
1. Follow this blog.
2. Subscribe to my blog newsletter.
3. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.


Giveaway ends May 4th. Good luck!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Hachette Book Group. all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Monday, April 25, 2011

In Stitches Review & *Giveaway*

In Stitches by Anthony Youn

About The Book:
Tony Youn grew up one of two Asian-American kids in a small town of near wall-to-wall whiteness. Too tall and too thin, he wore thick Coke-bottle glasses, braces, Hannibal Lecter headgear, and had a protruding jaw that one day began to grow, expanding Pinocchio-like, protruding to an unthinkable, monstrous size. After high school graduation, while other seniors partied at the shore or explored Europe, Youn lay strapped in an oral surgeon’s chair as he broke his jaw, then reset it and wired it shut for six weeks. Ironically, it was this brutal makeover that led him to his life's calling - and the four years of angst, flubs, triumphs, non-stop studying and intermittant heavy drinking that eventually earned him an M.D. Thanks to a small circle of close friends and an obsessive drive to overachieve, Youn transformed from a shy, skinny, awkward nerd with no confidence and no clue into a renowned and successful plastic surgeon. In Stitches is a heartfelt, candid, and laugh-out-loud memoir of one man's bumpy road to becoming a doctor and learning to be confortable in his own skin.

My Thoughts:
I loved this book. Some memoirs are quite boring, but this one is anything but. It is funny, and heartfelt. I could not put it down. The author is articulate and humorous and tells his story well. What a fun read!

About The Author:
Tony Youn, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon in private practice in Metro Detroit. He made his national TV debut on Dr. 90210 and has been a frequent guest on The Rachael Ray Show and The CBS Early Show and has appeared on The Doctors, The O'Reilly Factor, Fox and Friends, Manswers, and in specials on VH1 and E! He's written articles for RADAR magazine, MSNBC.com and CBS News.com. His comments have appeared in dozens of magazines, including US Weekly, In Touch and The National Enquirer. His blog, www.celebcosmeticsurgery.com is the most popular blog by a plastic surgeon in the country. In Stitches is his first book.

BUY the book on Amazon HERE.
When you pre-order In Stitches (comes out tomorrow), you can enter to win a free iPad, Nook or Kindle, hurry! Read excerpts from the book HERE. More about the book HERE.
Want to win a copy of this book? How To Win:

1. Follow this blog.
2. Tweet about this giveaway and use @callansmama
3. Fan me on Facebook
4. "Like" In Stitches on Facebook.

Giveaway ends May 2nd. Open to US and Canada only, sorry. Good luck.


I received a complimentary review copy of this book from Sneak Attack Media. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Gurkha Cigars Review & *Giveaway*



We were lucky enough to receive a generous Gurkha Cigar package for my husband to try. He loves his cigars. And he said each of the Gurkha's he tried all were different, and all were good. He especially enjoyed The Grand Reserve. He said it was very smooth and nice.

The Grand Reserve:
The Grand Reserve is the flagship brand of Gurkha Cigars. This magnificent cigar is infused with the finest cognac in the world, and handmade from the finest tobaccos. The premium Connecticut shade wrapper gives this Honduran made cigar a rich, creamy flavor with a hint of spice and promises a pleasantly light finish you will truly enjoy.

Archive:
Gurkha's 20th Anniversary cigar. Only 1000 boxes made for the world. Toro, Torpedo, and Churchill. This labor of love cigar has been in the works for 2 years. A gorgeous silky Connecticut Maduro wrapper with a superb aged Cameroon binder with an outstanding tasty Nicaraguan filler. Kaizad Hansotia the Master of packaging has done it again. This 92 count rustic wood box with fabulous engraving has made the Gurkha 20th Anniversary a must have.

The Black Dragon:
The craftsmanship and characteristics of these cigars are very harmonious and the blending is superb. It truly is a Dragon full of strength and graceful flavors.

Evil:
As owner and founder Kaizad Hansotia has been quoted as saying, "this cigar is pure evil". Make no mistakes here folks, it truly is pure evil. One of the top rated cigars in the annual IPCPR convention for strength, quality, and construction. The Gurkha Evil will test your ability to walk and talk after smoking this amazing strong but complete cigar. The Evil's wrapper is a dark oily Brazilian, with a pumped up Dominican Binder, and a Nicaraguan filler that will deliver all that you want and more in a cigar.

Want to win a Gurkha Cigar package? Here's how:
1. Follow this blog.
2. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.
3. Tell me who you will give these cigars to (hubby, son, friend, yourself, etc.)

Giveaway ends May 2nd. Good luck!

I received products from Gurkha Cigars in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Sunday, April 24, 2011

The White Cabinet


"From the 1940's to the 1960's Hilda Glasgow was one of the top fashion illustrators in the industry. She was also my mother. As a woman ahead of her time, born in 1913, graduating from Pratt Institute in NYC in 1933, she illustrated the latest mid 20th century fashions for magazines such as Vogue and a variety of high end department stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Best & Co. Her original pen and ink drawings are now being offered as several products including gicleé reproductions. Each order is custom printed on a heavyweight archival paper which mimics the original paper. They are available in four sizes ranging from 9" x 12" to 2' x 3'. Please take a peek and enjoy. If you are a fan of "Funny Face", "Breakfast at Tiffany's", and that little black dress, then I think you'll find these vintage illustrations simply divine just like I do!" 

I received some note cards, and I am in love. I love all things vintage, and these illustrations are amazing. You can buy note cards and prints from the 40's, 50's, 60's, and 70's. Soon these illustration are going to be made into a wallpaper sold by Flavor Paper! I'm just so thrilled with my note cards, I don't want to use them, hee hee. I just want to keep them and cherish them. But if you buy them to actually use them like normal people would (I'm not normal!), then the quality is amazing. Perfect for writing a note to a friend, or even for creating a birthday card or invite out of them. Really amazing!

Visit The White Cabinet to see all the amazing designs, also follow on Twitter and Facebook for updates!

I received products from The White Cabinet in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

50 Questions - Challenge Day

These are the 50 Questions Everyone Should Answer, and I have been wanting to do it for awhile, so why not now?

1. How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are? 19.
2. Which is worse, failing or never trying? Never trying.
3. If life is so short, why do we do so many things we don’t like and like so many things we don’t do? Because you do what you have to do to get by, like it or not.
4. When it’s all said and done, will you have said more than you’ve done? Yes.
5. What is the one thing you’d most like to change about the world? Money situations.
6. If happiness was the national currency, what kind of work would make you rich? Owning a bookstore.
7. Are you doing what you believe in, or are you settling for what you are doing? Doing what I believe in.
8. If the average human life span was 40 years, how would you live your life differently? Make more memories for my kids.
9. To what degree have you actually controlled the course your life has taken? I think for the most part, I have pretty much controlled it all.
10. Are you more worried about doing things right, or doing the right things? Doing things right.
11. You’re having lunch with three people you respect and admire. They all start criticizing a close friend of yours, not knowing she is your friend. The criticism is distasteful and unjustified. What do you do? Tell them that she is my friend, and what she is really like.
12. If you could offer a newborn child only one piece of advice, what would it be? Do what makes you happy in life.
13. Would you break the law to save a loved one? Of course.
14. Have you ever seen insanity where you later saw creativity? All the time.
15. What’s something you know you do differently than most people? Oh gosh. I really don’t know.
16. How come the things that make you happy don’t make everyone happy? Everyone has different likes and dislikes. We are not all the same.
17. What one thing have you not done that you really want to do? What’s holding you back? Completely redecorate my entire house. But I can’t due to the fact I am not rich.
18. Are you holding onto something you need to let go of? Yes.
19. If you had to move to a state or country besides the one you currently live in, where would you move and why? I would move back to Texas because for a long time that felt like home to me.
20. Do you push the elevator button more than once? Do you really believe it makes the elevator faster? Yes I do push it more than once and I know it does not make it faster.
21. Would you rather be a worried genius or a joyful simpleton? A joyful simpleton, of course.
22. Why are you, you? I am me just for the same reason you are you. God made us this way.
23. Have you been the kind of friend you want as a friend? No.
24. Which is worse, when a good friend moves away, or losing touch with a good friend who lives right near you? Losing touch.
25. What are you most grateful for? My husband and the changes he has made for both of our lives.
26. Would you rather lose all of your old memories, or never be able to make new ones? Tough one. Lose all the old ones.
27. Is it possible to know the truth without challenging it first? Yes.
28. Has your greatest fear ever come true? Close, but no.
29. Do you remember that time 5 years ago when you were extremely upset? Does it really matter now? Yes, and no it does not matter now but I can’t let it go.
30. What is your happiest childhood memory? What makes it so special? Going up to cabin every summer. It was a time when I could just be a kid and do the things kids do. Being outside, playing, exploring.
31. At what time in your recent past have you felt most passionate and alive? Very recently. My marriage is better than ever.
32. If not now, then when? Never.
33. If you haven’t achieved it yet, what do you have to lose? Nothing.
34. Have you ever been with someone, said nothing, and walked away feeling like you just had the best conversation ever? Oh yes.
35. Why do religions that support love cause so many wars? I don’t know. Conflict between religions is just about power.
36. Is it possible to know, without a doubt, what is good and what is evil? No.
37. If you just won a million dollars, would you quit your job? Yes, if I had one.
38. Would you rather have less work to do, or more work you actually enjoy doing? Less, so I could have time to enjoy the things I want.
39. Do you feel like you’ve lived this day a hundred times before? Yup.
40. When was the last time you marched into the dark with only the soft glow of an idea you strongly believed in? 9 years ago.
41. If you knew that everyone you know was going to die tomorrow, who would you visit today? My mom, my sisters and brother, and of course I would not let Jason or the boys leave my side.
42. Would you be willing to reduce your life expectancy by 10 years to become extremely attractive or famous? No.
43. What is the difference between being alive and truly living? Being alive is what we all are. Truly living is doing what is in your heart and being happy.
44. When is it time to stop calculating risk and rewards, and just go ahead and do what you know is right? I think you should always do what you know is right.
45. If we learn from our mistakes, why are we always so afraid to make a mistake? Because we don’t want to let others down.
46. What would you do differently if you knew nobody would judge you? Nothing. I do what I want when I want and I say what I think.
47. When was the last time you noticed the sound of your own breathing? Every night when I lay in bed thinking, thinking, thinking.
48. What do you love? Have any of your recent actions openly expressed this love? My husband and my children, and even when I am mad at one of them, I make it a point to say I Love You every day and give hugs and kisses.
49. In 5 years from now, will you remember what you did yesterday? What about the day before that? Or the day before that? I will remember probably. A lot of things I write down.
50. Decisions are being made right now. The question is: Are you making them for yourself, or are you letting others make them for you? I make them for myself.

One Dozen Easter Egg Hunt Ideas

From 24/7 Moms:

1. Pirate Treasure Hunt - Create maps for your children to use on their egg hunt. Place on your map familiar things such as trees, bushes, the swing set, etc. Maybe place X's as to where eggs are hidden and let them follow the map looking for their Easter Eggs.

2. Flash Light Egg Hunt - This is a fun hunt especially for older children. Wait until it is dark to go hunting for the eggs and give each child a flashlight to help them in their search for the eggs in the dark. There are also glow in the dark eggs now available at stores to use in this type of hunt.

3. In-Door Hunt - Living in the NW we are never guaranteed a sunny Easter day so many of our egg hunts have been held in our home. There are lots of creative places to hide eggs inside your home. You might even find a egg or two a few months from now.

4. Assigned Color Egg Hunt - Give each child an assigned color to find during the egg hunt. It is best to make sure you have equal amounts of each color. You can even give a prize to the first child that finds all of their assigned colored eggs. Remind them they are to leave the eggs that are not their assigned color so the other children can find their assigned colored eggs.

5. Find a Egg Win a Prize - Place notes inside various eggs revealing what prize a child has won. The prizes can be simple and inexpensive. Be sure every child wins a prize so limit the number of note filled eggs each child can find.

6. Math Hunt - Write numbers on your eggs and tell each child how many eggs they are to each find. Once they have their eggs add up the numbers on the eggs to see who's total is the highest. The winner can be given a prize.

7. Scavenger Egg Hunt - Create a scavenger hunt list of the different types and colors of eggs they are to find. You will need to supply them with a list and pencil to use during their hunt. Remind them they are to only find what is on their list.

Here is an example of a scavenger egg hunt list

______ 2 Blue eggs
______ 5 Pink eggs
______2 Spider Man eggs
______1 Two-colored egg
______4 Green eggs


8. Personalized Hunt - Personalize each egg with the Children's names. Instruct them that during the hunt they are to find the egg with their name on it. You can fill these eggs with items that you know this child will like as well.

9. Find a Number Win a Prize - Place a number on various eggs that the children turn in for prizes. Have your prizes divided up into numbered categories such as #1 wins a piece of candy, #2 wins stickers, #3 wins a chocolate bunny, etc.

10. Buried Egg Treasure - Use your child's sand box or fill a kiddie pool with sand then bury the eggs in the sand. Allow your children to dig and discover their hidden buried egg treasures.

11. GPS Hunt - Turn the latest craze of Geo Caching into this years Easter Egg Hunt. The eggs can be hidden through out an area (grounds), and the participants can use coordinates, which they can plug into their GPS units.

12. Easter Story Egg Hunt - Add in the Easter story to this years egg hunt by taking 12 plastic eggs that you have numbered. Place in side each one a part of the Easter story or you can use your Resurrection eggs for this. When the kids have finished their egg hunt, gather them together and have them help tell the Easter story in order of the numbered eggs they have found. This gives each child an opportunity to participate in telling the story (be sure each child has found 1 or 2 of the numbered or Resurrection eggs).

Your Turn - Do you have a FUN Easter egg hunt idea? Share it with us

For more great ideas on all things, please visit 24/7 Moms.

Happy Spring Equinox

~Hayley