Happy New Year!

As the year comes to an end, I just want to say thank you to all of my readers and loyal fans who have supported me throughout this journey. There have been a lot of ups and a few downs but through it all we have managed to make it through until the end. I have a few great projects in the works that will be revealed in the New Year. Look forward to more posts, reviews, new content, a few surprises and changes coming your way.

I pray you and your family have a Happy and Prosperous New Year! See you soon :-)

Juiceology Juice Review

Juiceology is a new juice with unique fresh ingredients for a healthy diet and daily wellness.

At Daklen Nutrition we use all natural ingredients, delivered in their purest and most delicious form. Our premium juices are made from the finest hand picked fruits and are low in calories and sugar.
Nutrients from fruits and vegetables are easily absorbed in liquid form; and by drinking juice and exercising everyday, you can help your body achieve optimum health.

Juices have the power to nourish your body, eliminate waste from your system and deliver more vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, polyphenols and flavonoids than most foods.


Our whole grain extracts are made from oats and barley, delivering 10% of the recommended daily intake of fiber per serving. Studies show that fiber can play an important role in:

• promoting the growth of beneficial microflora in the     digestive tract;
• satisfying your appetite;
• boosting calcium absorption, which may support     healthy bones.

Whole grain extracts also deliver essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, selenium, thiamin, riboflavin and folate.

My Review: I received a sample from Daklen Nutrition - Juiceology to review. Let me just say, the package was delivered in a  cooler with ice packs (I thought was a special touch). The juice was cold, refreshing and it tasted wonderful. It even passed the challenge from my little test tasters. I received Peach Mango and Blueberry Acai for review. I love the juice, it's good stuff, plus its made with all-natural ingredients plus fiber which fits in with my families healthy lifestyle. I savored every last drop, I had to hide the rest from the little ones ;-). I can't wait until its available in Northern California. Drink to your health!

Juiceology is now available in Southern California through major grocery stores including Ralphs, Gelson's, Northgate, Bristol Farms and Famima. Since all Americans deserve a healthier lifestyle, the product will soon be offered in other states as well. For more information regarding Juiceology and/or Daklen, please visit their website: www.purejuiceology.com

Also find Juiceology on Twitter: @purejuiceology  or on Facebook: Juiceology

Disclaimer: I received juice samples for review in exchange for my honest opinion. All company information was provided courtesy of Daklen Nutrition-Juiceology and was reprinted solely for the purposes of my review. Any and all thoughts expressed on my behalf were my opinion alone. I was not compensated in any way.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

I just wanted to wish you all a Happy, Joyous, Festive and Blessed Christmas.

As we all gather around our family and friends to celebrate this Holiday Season, let us also be mindful of those who are less fortunate than we are. Spread a little love and joy with them, even if it is just a few minutes of your time.

"The Savior-yes, the Messiah, the Lord-has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!"
-Luke 2:11 (NLT)

 I pray each and every household that reads this post have a Safe, Blessed and Prosperous New Year!

Thank you all for your continued support. Expect great things in 2012! Change is in the works and on the way.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Debating a [dot] com. Any suggestions?

Hey everyone,

I am debating a move from blogspot to [dot] com. Does anyone have suggestions about transferring my blog information to a wordpress platform? I don't want to loose my followers and my posts, is there a way to transfer all of this information successfully with minimal loss?

Any help would be appreciated. Thank you!

MomAgenda is having a Holiday Sale!

momAgenda (www.momagenda.com) creates stylish and functional day planners and other organizing products for moms. Our unique day planners feature space for mom and up to four children, allowing moms to manage multiple schedules with ease!



With the holiday season fast approaching, let MomAgenda help you keep track of it all.
Save up to 35% on top products plus FREE SHIPPING until 12/25 at momAgenda.com!

Happy Shopping!

Mod Diaper Bag

Looking for a change of pace while toting your tot? Well, look no further. This adorable pink and blue circle stitch on black bambino bag from Nunzia is as cute as it gets. It's also very practice with the messenger style flap with magnetic stays & a bottle holder. You can't go wrong!!

You can pack everything you need for the day on the town with your little one.

< br>
*Perfect for short outings, day trips, or travel, this spacious diaper bag is perfect for the fashionable mom.

*Zippered top opens into spacious main compartment with multiple storage pockets for organization.

*Great organization for Mom: interior includes pockets for credit cards and cell phones.

*Includes detachable bottle holder.

*Inner compartments wipe clean easily.

*Measurements: 17 x 12 x 5 inches, 2.5 pounds

*Man made material

< br>
< b>Deal Price: $49.99
MSRP: $129.99
Save over 50% off!!

To purchase your very own Mod Diaper Bag click here for more information.

Baby Signs Potty Training Kit For Half Off!

A revolutionary approach to potty training for only $19.99 plus $4.95 shipping!
Potty training doesn't have to be stressful for parents, grandparents, and caregivers. It also doesn't have to be a stressful time for the little ones! The Baby Signs Potty Training Kit actually makes potty training fun and easy. It's a program that combines the Baby Signs Program with practices that are developmentally appropriate. Making it easy to potty train a child under the age of 2! The program is also motivational for children of all ages. This potty training kit typically retails for $39.95, but through this exclusive deal you can get the entire program for half off! Don't miss out on this fabulous deal, because it won't last for long! 

The kit contains: -Parent Guide- This straightforward guide from trusted child development experts will help you confidently lead your baby to potty success. -All Aboard the Potty Train DVD- With its catchy tunes, delightful animation and real kids, this exciting DVD will teach your baby five potty-time signs and reinforce each step of the potty routine. -All Aboard the Potty Train Lift-the-Flap Book- Your baby will love discovering the potty-time signs hidden under each flap in this fun and interactive board book featuring the DiaperDoodles". -Job Well Done! Stickers- These colorful reward stickers feature fun images and positive messages such as "Good Job" and "I'm on the Potty Train!" -All Aboard the Potty Train Conductor's Whistle- Whether to signal it's time to go potty or to "sound the trumpet of success," this fun-to-blow whistle will put a smile on your baby's face when it's potty time. (For adult use only. Whistle poses a choking hazard for very young children.) *Deal ends Thursday, November 4th at 11:59pm MST *US shipping only (The customer will see the above text as they make the purchase. This should include shipping and other relevant information.)

$Item Price

$Shipping Cost To purchase your very own Baby Signs Potty Training Kit please visit this link: http://www.broadcastbloggers.com/deal.php?i=108&a=1069029

Blog Tour- God Makes Lemonade by Don Jacobson

Book: God Makes Lemonade: True Stories that Sweeten and Inspire

Author: Don Jacobson

About the Author:

A Living Lemonade Story
Hi, I’m Don Jacobson, and I’m a walking, talking lemonade story.
Back in 1980, I was a happily married twenty-four-year-old who enjoyed a physically demanding job in commercial construction. I knew my future was bright, and I knew what it would take to get there: hard work, planning, and dedication.
Then, one winter night, a shooting accident changed everything.
I nearly died as I lay for hours in a freezing field. I spent nine agonizing days in critical condition, and nearly a month in the hospital. When I left, things looked bleak, and I could no longer physically provide for my family.
It took a while for that lemon to become lemonade, but in the end it was wonderfully sweet. I began to work in publishing, and the shape of my life changed forever. Now, twenty-five years later, I see that not being able to work with my hands forced me to work with my head and heart, and both my family and my career became better than I could ever have imagined.
My wife, Brenda, and I know that the hardships of life have molded our characters and turned us into people we would never have been apart from the pain. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade the hardest times of my life for anything, because they led me toward something better.
When I share my lemonade story with friends, two amazing things happen. My story inspires others and gives them hope. Then, almost without fail, my friends excitedly tell me their lemonade story, and I’m filled with inspiration and hope in return.
Recently it hit me: we all have lemonade stories—so what would happen if we could share them with the people around the world who need them most?
That’s the dream of the God Makes Lemonade series. Thank you for being a part of this community of storytellers. Lemonade stories can help heal hearts and transform lives.
What’s your story?

My thoughts: When I received the book, I really didn't know what to expect. The title alone caught my attention. As I started reading I knew my life would never be the same again. This is a wonderful book of real life stories from people like you and me. I am sure you can relate to one story or another. I found myself reflecting on my own experiences and how God was there for my throughout many circumstances and situations. I cried while reading, I laughed, and I began to hope again. I was truly inspired because of the personal testimonies told in this book. Instead of short stories, I call them a testify session. I literally felt like I was right there with every story. Let the healing begin, that is what I began to feel as I read this book. I am sure you will enjoy reading God Makes Lemonade as much as I did.

Please visit Don Jacobson's website http://godmakeslemonade.com/home


You can purchase God Makes Lemonade at your local bookseller or online from Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, or Christianbook.com. The e-book versions for the Kindle and for the Nook are also available at the introductory price of $2.99. Sign up for more information about God Makes
Lemonade by clicking here.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book courtesy of GlassRoads Pr in exchange for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way. Any thoughts and or opinions expressed were solely my own.

Book: Diary Of A Teenage Girl - Becoming Me

Author: Melody Carlson


Becoming Me
(Caitlin # 1)

Sixteen-year-old Caitlin O'Conner reveals the inner workings of a girl caught between childhood and womanhood ... an empty life without Christ and a meaningful one with Him. Through Caitlin's candid journal entries we see her grapple with such universal teen issues as peer pressure, loyalty, conflict with parents, the longing for a boyfriend, and her own spirituality. Readers will laugh and cry with Caitlin as she struggles toward self-discovery and understanding God's plan for her life. And they'll be deeply moved by her surprising commitment regarding dating.

 

 

My Thoughts: When I opened the book and started reading, I thought wow this is going to be chore trying to read all of these diary entries. Once I started reading I totally forgot that I was reading from a diary. I was totally engrossed in the story that I had to turn back the pages to find out what day I was on. As the story unfolded I reflected back to my own teenage years and the events that occured in my adolescence. I could totally relate to Caitlin as she tried to find her way and who she was and changed who she was trying to fit in with the popular kids.

 

 

As Caitlin discoveres who she is as a person along the way she dismisses the childhood friendship of her best friend Beanie in order to fit it with the popular group. She befriends Jenny only the most prettiest, popular, cheerleader in the whole school.

 

 

She discovers she has a crush on Josh Miller, only the cutest and most popular boy in the whole school, but there is one problem he is the boyfriend of her new cool friend Jenny. What a dilemma this will be. How can she hide the feelings she has for him while maintaining her friendship with Jenny and not letting her find out.

 

 

Join the journey with Caitlin O'Conner as she struggles to fit in, tries to reconnect her broken relationship with her childhood friend, endures heartache and pain in her own family, battles with forgiveness, and discovers love. Even though she encounters a number of problems, it is during this time she finds a relationship with God and uncovers things about herself she didn't know existed before.

 

 

I loved this book and I know you will enjoy reading it. For more information about the book or to order your copy today, please visit http://www.melodycarlson.com/diary.shtml

 

 

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review courtesy of Glass Roads Pr in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way. Any and all thoughts expressed were solely my own.

Blog Tour: River's Song by Melody Carlson

Book: River's Song

Author: Melody Carlson


Book Synopsis: Following her mother's funeral, and on the verge of her own midlife crisis, widow Anna Larson returns to the home of her youth to sort out her parents' belongings, as well as her own turbulent life. Her relationship with her daughter is in shambles, and the tension between Anna and her vicious mother-in-law escalates daily.
Anna's unique family home sits on a picturesque coastal tributary and is filled with years of memories. For the first time since childhood, Anna embraces her native heritage and river roots. But Anna soon learns that more than just her past resides along the banks of the Siuslaw River. By transforming her old family home into The Inn at Shining Waters, Anna hopes to create a place of healing-a place where guests experience peace, grace, and new beginnings.

About the Author: Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of more than 200 books, including Love Finds You in Sisters, Oregon, Limelight, the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series. Nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award, Melody is also the author of Homeward, which won a Rita Award. Melody and her husband live in central Oregon.


My thoughts: I really loved this book, I could not put it down. I had to get to the end to find out what would happen to the character Anna. I loved the vivid detail and descriptions, they seemed surreal that I thought I was right there in the story. In the book Anna revisits the place of her past in the hopes of reconnecting with herself, her family and her daughter. In this visit at the river, she meets some very interesting people both new and old (but you'll have to read it to find out more).  I was so engrossed in the book, I didn't want it to end. I can't wait to see what happens next. If you haven't read any of Melody Carlson's books, you are in for a treat. Her books are very well written and you are immediately drawn into the story. I am sure you will enjoy reading this book like I did.

Visit Melody's website here: MelodyCarlson
For more information or to order the book, please visit River's Song

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book courtesy of GlassRoadsPr for review in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts or opinions expressed were solely my own. I did not receive any compensation for this review.

Help, My GFC followers are missing!

I guess I didn't notice it before, but my followers are missing from my blog. I read about this happening to other people's blogs, but now it is happening to me. I don't have thousands of followers yet, but I would still like to have the ones I do have be reflected on my blog.  Does anyone know how to retrieve them? It still shows how many in my dashboard but the box and the faces are missing. I am so considering moving to WordPress. Any suggestions?

Book Review: A Short Life Well Lived

Book: A Short Life Well Lived

Author: Tom Sullivan

Brian O'Connor is a successful lawyer, loving husband, and devoted father. He also happens to be blind. Driven his entire life to be independent, Brian has achieved much, but he has been so busy proving his triumph over blindness that he hasn't stopped to consider how his carefully crafted life can all come crashing down in an instant. When his young son is diagnosed with cancer, the long ensuing battle brings Brian to his knees as he comes to terms with his own limitations and his need for faith.

About the Author: Tom Sullivan, known to many as an actor, singer, entertainer, author, and producer, lives and works by “Sullivan’s Rules.” Born prematurely in 1947, Tom was given too much oxygen while in an incubator. Though it saved his life, it cost him his eyesight. The “inconvenience” of being blind has never kept Tom Sullivan from competing in a world where he realized that to be equal, for him, meant that he must be better. Over the years he's made a number of guest-starring appearances in shows such as Designing Women, Highway to Heaven, Fame, M.A.S.H, Mork & Mindy, and WKRP in Cincinnati. But to create the characters and fulfill the role of a blind man on prime time, he also helped write and develop many of these stories. He gained popularity on daytime TV as a regular on Search For Tomorrow and was awarded the 1984 Governors Committee Award for his role. Tom has also been nominated twice for Emmy Awards. As a special correspondent for ABC's Good Morning America, Tom has become a regular morning fixture in millions of American homes. His touching and insightful reports give many that “you can do it” bit of inspiration to start their day. Whether it was snow skiing with his son in Colorado, or interviewing the legendary Jack Nicklaus over a few holes of golf, his reporting is memorable. He is now writing and producing for television and film. He is a bestselling author of fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books.

My Thoughts: This is a heartwarming story of a close knit family who is facing a tremendous obstacle concerning their son's health. I liked how the book was written in the viewpoint of the father. When reading the words you get a glimpse of the emotions and thoughts of a father who is blind trying to cope in a sight dependent world. Brian must put aside his own self reliance as he questions his own faith and belief in God. The book is masterfully written with vivid sensory detail. You will laugh, you will cry but you will not want to put the book down.

It was amazing for me to read how the father who was blind since birth mastered using his other senses to function nearly independently and overcame so many obstacles in his life.  I really enjoyed reading this book and I know you will too.

For more information or to order a copy, visit A Short Life Well Lived.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book courtesy of GlassRoadsPr in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not compensated for this review. Any and all thoughts expressed were solely my own.

Sand to Pearls - Book Review

Book: Sand to Pearls

Author: Heidi McLaughlin

Publisher: Deep River Books 

Illusions of success and instant pleasure can seduce us into making poor choices. We long for fulfillment but are haggard from life’s trials and overwhelmed by what the future holds. Broken, we feel unworthy to ask God to intervene in our lives. Blinded by it all, we often overlook that God has the potential to use everything in our lives--whether good or bad.

It's time to S.T.O.P. and let God help us make bold choices to enrich our lives with freedom, fulfillment and incredible beauty!

International speaker and author of Beauty Unleashed, Heidi McLaughlin shares from her personal discoveries how God heals and restores all failures and pain. If God can take a tiny grain of sand and turn it into a gorgeous pearl, then He certainly can turn our worst decisions and biggest mistakes into a magnificent new beginning!

Book Synopsis: Heidi uncovers some of the illusions, fallacies and overwhelming obligations we place upon ourselves and shows us how we can turn around every situation by allowing God to change those sandy unfulfilled areas in our lives into beautiful pearls.  The Book - Sand to Pearls is a God-send, real talk, everyday practical biblical wisdom, encouragement, transparent and non-judgemental, like having a heart to heart with your closest friend. Some of the topics covered are:

Self Sabotage

Nurturing

Resentment

Broken or Blended

Fear or Fortitude

Contentment

Shamed or Radiant

Panic or Prayer

At the end of each chapter, each section ends with Choices That Enrich Your Life, Steps to overcome every situation discussed and Stop and Ask God to help you Change Sand to Pearls. S.T.O.P. stands for S Scripture, T Thanksgiving, O Observation, and P Prayer.

My Thoughts: As I was reading Sand to Pearls I began to realize that I have some areas that still need some additional work. The Chapter Fear or Fortitude - Spoke volumes to me.

"What choice will you make in the presence of fear? Will you cower and run or will you face it head on. Discovering the God given purpose for your life can be exciting and rewarding. The enemy or fear if we allow it, can rob us of our joy, sense of fulfillment and paralyze us from moving forward."

"Fear gives us disguised opportunities to discover gifts and joys that God wants to give us."

I loved the way Heidi breaks down each topic and shares her personal story and how she allowed God to change those areas in her life that needed mending and repair. She also talks about nurturing yourself so you can nurture others. Praying everyday with your spouse and for your family, building and intimate relationship with God first and how He helps to heal all the broken places in our lives.

I enjoyed reading this book and I will continue to use it as a reference tool along with my daily devotional as I allow God to help me continue to grow spiritually. This is a wonderful, well written book full of insight, with personal examples and Godly solutions to help you grow and mature in your spiritual walk with the Lord. This is not just for the new believer, but for anyone who wants to see change and personal spiritual growth in their lives. Enjoy a few laughs, but also personal insight from someone who has been there personally and allowed her story be told to help someone else.

To purchase the book Sand to Pearls, or for more information visit www.deepriverbooks.com

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review courtesy of BringitonCommunications in exchange for my honest review. I was not compensated in any way, all thoughts and opinions expressed were solely my own.

Book Review: Morning Manna

Book: Morning Manna

Author: R. Chris Hanks

Publisher: Deep River Books

Being kind, thoughtful, giving and encouraging comes easy for most Christians. But ask them what area needs the most improvement and they will most likely answer, “I'd like to spend more time in God's Word and praying.” As the clock ticks, and the years go by, there sits our Bible; used seldom, but thought of often.

Morning Manna will give your Bible that worn and tattered look you've always wanted. One that says, “I've been read, and I was good!” Taking you through the Bible in one year and camping on scriptures, (some of which are overlooked), Pastor Chris Hanks brings new devotions to chew on each day from the Word. Morning Manna--it's food for the soul!

Book Synopsis:

Morning Manna is a daily devotional reading covering the Bible from Genesis to Revelations. The reader will have studied the Bible in depth from cover to cover. Morning Manna is a great resource for prayer time, devotion, research and studying the scriptures. Great resource for Bible Study topics, Sermons, Sunday School lessons or general knowledge of the Scriptures.

My Thoughts:

First, I like the design of the book and the colors. I love the look and feel of the book, which is really smooth unlike other books I've read.

If your desire is to learn more about the scriptures from the Bible or to start a morning devotion and prayer time then this is the book for you. Just as some people need to start the day with a cup of coffee or they can't function, we as Christians should begin our day with devotion and prayer time.

Our hearts desire should be to study the scriptures and meditate on God's Word on a daily basis. The day should not start until we have had prayer and quiet time. Each lesson includes a Daily Bible Reading, Today's Verse, Brief overview of the scriptures and Topics for specific word devotion.

I must admit I don't always get to have my prayer and quiet time like I should everyday with my very early risers. However, Morning Manna is one of the many devotional tools and resources that I have available to me to continue to grow, mature and meditate on the Word of God. I have found from my own personal experience that when I do study God's Word I have a renewed sense of peace and I can endure and function a lot better than not having read or studied. I know you will enjoy this great devotional as I have.

For more information about Morning Manna or to purchase the book, visit www.deepriverbooks.com

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review courtesy of Bring it On Communications in exchange for my honest opinion. I was not compensated in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed were solely my own.

Stride Rite Memorial Day SALE!

It's Sandal Season! Get a head start on your shopping this weekend with Stride Rite.

It’s time to get ready for summer considering Memorial Day is already this weekend, and Stride Rite is having a special sale Thursday, May 26 through Tuesday, May 31 at participating Stride Rite retail stores and StrideRite.com: Buy One Get One 50% Off ALL shandals, sandals & flip flops from Stride Rite. CODE: SUNBOGO (all caps). (Shandals are airy like a sandal, but with more coverage to protect tiny toes.)

I love Summer and this is the perfect excuse to buy the cutest sandals for my little ones. These shandals are the perfect accessory for a trip to the beach. Happy Shopping!

For a location near you click here: Store Locater. 

Disclaimer: I am posting this information courtesy of StrideRite and RF Binder for a chance to win an AmEx gift card. I was not compensated in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed are solely my own.

Holy Guacamole - Blog Tour

HOLY GUACAMOLE - A ROMANTIC ADVENTURE FOR FOODIES

Debut authors Dan and Denise Harmer deliver a thrilling food-lover's adventure in Holy Guacamole. The culinary tale hurtles a television chef and a washed-up sports writer into a harrowing escapade that may cost them their lives.

When Trace Domingo is accepted into Chef Bonnie Miller's culinary boot camp, a life-threatening journey into Bonnie's past unfolds. In a vulnerable moment, Trace discovers part of Bonnie's closely-held secret. She hasn't yet decided to trust the "bootie" when a crisis makes the choice for her. The pair embark on a race against the clock across southern California and northern Baja in Mexico.

Laced with local references, historical sites, and culinary delights, Holy Guacamole is a fun summer beach read.

About the Authors: Denise, a former stenographer and devourer of books, is the couple’s editor and technician. Dan fine tuned his creative storytelling in high school as a way of explaining why he missed class whenever the surf was up. Their shared passion for the written word has led to a growing collection of awards. The couple enjoys living in Southern California’s “Avocado Capital of the World” where they maintain a laid-back lifestyle as they run a cabinet shop, raise four children, and tend a small ranch. Okay, maybe it does get a little hectic.

My Review: If you love food then this is the book for you. Holy Guacamole is filled with lots of twists and turns that will keep you guessing - What's next? You will get seriously hungry while reading all the delicious food recipes and references. Follow Trace and Bonnie on an exciting adventure with a little bit of romance mixed in.  This is a great summer beach read, pull up a chair and follow along. I enjoyed reading this book and you will too!

For more information or to order a copy of the book, visit http://www.jointventurebooks.com/

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review courtesy of Glass Roads Pr. in exchange for my honest opinion.

A Mom's True Confession

I am sorry everyone, I haven't been around much lately. Some days I just don't have the time, other times I haven't felt much like writing. When you combine homeschooling a 2nd grade and Kindergartner along with a very busy, climbing 14 mo. old, well you can imagine how my day must be. Full of laughter and good times (yeah - more like yelling and screaming). Help me!!!!!!


Then there are days where I am online and I'll type a really great post only to delete it seconds later before publishing it. There are so many things I would like to say, but sometimes don't.

Today I had a really bad day, almost to the point of tears. My 14 mo. old has found his screaming voice,  my 7 and 5 year old have mastered the art of tattling, rough housing, asking a million questions in order to avoid completing their work (mind you - all of this is going at the same time). It is hard even trying to get a mental break [let me explain Mental Break, a few minutes of quiet without hearing wining, crying, screaming, tattling, asking for everything in the kitchen that is not nailed down - you get the point]. Every night is a chore getting the kids to bed. Sometimes the older two are fast asleep and my little guy thinks 8, 9, 10 , 11, and 12 o'clock are playtime hours. What!!!

please excuse the typos if any - this goes to show what three kids under the age of 7 can do to a person mentally.

Thanks for letting me vent today. I love my babies with all my heart, but today they took me there and I just need a few moments of peace so I can hear my own thoughts in order to save my sanity. Have you every been where I am?

A Season of Reflection

Life is so precious especially when it comes to an end for those you love. We celebrated the vibrant life of my Aunt who died of Cancer recently. We are a very close family unit and we were all affected by her passing.

I took some time off to spend with my loved ones and family as we all try to regroup after our loss. She will be truly missed. I wanted to write many times before, but just could not find the right words to say. Death is very personal and it effects us all in different ways. We will miss our loved ones because we want them here with us but she is in a far better place and not in any pain anymore. We will all cherish her life, her legacy and we will hold her memory near and dear to our hearts.

A message to you - Love your family because you just don't know when they will leave this earth. We will all die one day, but you must choose where you will spend eternity. Will it be in heaven or hell? As a believer in Christ, I know I will see her again when we get to heaven, but if you don't know Him you will spend eternity forever separated in a place of fear and torment.

Please choose wisely! Thank you for taking the time to listen.

Misunderstanding |Chevy Cruze| Superbowl

I hope everyone is enjoying the Super Bowl with family and friends gathered around eating all that delicious food. I like watching to see who has the best commercial or ad that will air during the big game. Year after year the Super Bowl Ads are bigger and better than the last and the competition is fierce. Well, Chevrolet has several Super Bowl Ads that will be airing during the game. Here is a really cute one below. Click to watch Misunderstanding.




The Chevy Cruze Eco gets up to 42 miles per gallon. You heard it hear first. Chevy runs deep. For more information visit http://www.chevrolet.com/cruze



Disclaimer: I received this video as part of the Super Bowl Campaign as a BzzAgent courtesy of Chevrolet. Any opinions or thoughts expressed are solely my own. My participation will count as a chance to win a giveaway prize.

New Deal Site - City DEALS GIVEAWAY

New Deal Site Launching in San Francisco

Great news to share! CityDeals, an innovative deal provider, is moving to San Francisco!

CityDeals is not your average deal site! While they do feature a daily deal, they also offer deals that aren’t limited to the one-deal-a-day concept. They also offer a print at home option – which is same day, no delay!

As part of the move West, CityDeals is launching a huge giveaway for their San Francisco friends! All you have to do is enter the “I <3 San Francisco Giveaway!” for a chance to win one of four prizes:

Enter the giveaway and become a friend of CityDeals on Facebook where you will receive additional information and details on the giveaway items. They are also starting to share coupon codes through the Facebook page as well, so many benefits to becoming a ‘liker.’ Sign up soon because CityDeals will draw a winner on Monday, Feb. 7, 2011. Spread the word and you, or someone you know, could win big!



Visit http://sanfrancisco.citydeals.com/ to enter today.


I am always looking for a great deal and I can't wait to see what CityDEALS has to offer. Tell a friend and enter soon to win one of the fabulous prizes. See you there!

Disclaimer: I received this information courtesy of One 2 One Network in order to be eligible to enter a giveaway. I was not compensated in any way for this post. All information was provided by City DEALS and O2O Network.

Book Review- Your Money God's Way by Amie Streater

 

Book: Your Money God's Way Overcoming The 7 Money Myths That Keep Christians Broke

Author: Amie Streater

She is the Financial Stewardship Pastor at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, author, financial coach, speaker, mom of three rowdy little boys, and wife to my best friend.

 

Book Synopsis:

Readers discover the seven "counterfeit convictions" that keep them broke and encounter proven plans for getting out of debt, building wealth, and finding financial peace.


Money habits. Where do they come from? Can you pinpoint when you started shopping to feel better, why you can’t usher grown children into financial independence, or why saving for the future is a priority in theory but not in practice?

 

Amie Streater, associate pastor of financial stewardship for the 10,000-member New Life Church in Colorado Springs, has been there. From her own experience, she knows what it’s like to look at an impossible pile of bills and a pile of toddlers wrestling in the next room. In Your Money God's Way, empowered by her own incredible journey to financial freedom, she leads readers to the dream of mastering their finances. She also expertly uncovers seven “counterfeit convictions” Christians believe that hinder their personal finance success.

 

Here is an overview of the 7 Myths that keep Christians broke:

1. Unrealistic, unbiblical beliefs about the power money has to improve our lives
2. A habit of trying to be a savior by continually bailing reckless people out of their messes, and wasting our own resources in the process
3. Polluted theology, which we use to mask laziness and justify not working or failing to work up to our full potential
4. Naivete` about the intentions of others 
5. Failure to give, or a tendency to give with the wrong intentions
6. Denial about our current circumstances or the consequences of our actions
7. A tendency to blame God for our own impulsive behavior 

My Thoughts: Let me just preface this by saying, hold on to your seat. This book is not for the faint at heart or easily offended. Amie provides a practical,  real life, no-frills, no holds barred, no nonsense approach to awakening your spiritual outlook concerning your finances and debunking all the myths and fallacies about money.

I loved this book, I even had to get my feet out of the isle because she was stepping all over them. I love that she held nothing back and was straightforward about the truths and myths concerning our finances. She lovingly (as a mother) coaches you in the proper mind attitude of how being a good steward and handling your finances God's way will get you out of debt and change you forever.

Each chapter has important points and tips in bold contained within a box. At the end of each chapter, there is a prayer that every individual can apply to every situation in their life. Amie also shows God's Way and Solutions Steps to help you achieve spiritual victory in your finances as well as financial success. If you are like most of us and you need a spiritual and financial overhaul, I encourage you to pick up your copy today and be prepared to see your life, home, family and finances change and line up according to God's Way.


For more information about Your Money God's Way Overcoming The 7 Money Myths That Keep Christians Broke visit AmieStreater.com. You can also follow her on Twitter (amiestreater) or Like the Facebook page.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book courtesy of BookSneeze in exchange for my honest opinion. All book information contained in this post was used for the sole purpose of completing this review. I was not compensated in any way, any thoughts and opinions expressed were solely my own.

P & G eSAVER COUPONS

I recently signed up to receive free samples and coupons through P & G Everyday Solutions. When you receive your samples the coupon booklet contains the coupons you selected and it is personalized with your name (which I thought was an extra special touch). Each sample is also individually wrapped or packaged.

P & G also has a Shopper Card Program. You can upload coupons for participating stores onto your card (one time upload per coupon).  When you checkout simply swipe the card to receive the savings. How genius is that, no more clipping coupons - everything you need is on the card.


"Membership is free. You can try it before you buy it, buy it online, and save $ with the coupon book."



Membership benefits include:

 •Our free monthly e-mail newsletter

•Samples from P&GbrandSAMPLER®

•Coupons from P&GeSAVER™

•Solution set ideas from P&GbrandSAVER®


For more information or to sign up visit P & G Everyday Solutions. You can also Like them on Facebook for additional updates and savings.

Disclaimer: All information was obtained from P & G Everyday Solutions. Any additional information provided was solely my own thoughts and opinions. I was not compensated in any way for this post. As a P&G Everyday Solutions member I received coupons and samples that I personally selected.

ABCYA - Fun Educational Site for K - 5

ABCya! is the leader in free educational kids computer games and activities for elementary students to learn on the web. All children's educational computer activities were created or approved by certified school teachers. All educational games are free and are modeled from primary grade lessons and enhanced to provide an interactive way for children to learn. Grade level lessons incorporate areas such as math and language arts while introducing basic computer skills. Many of the kindergarten and first grade activities are equipped with sound to enhance understanding. Fun children's Holiday activities are available in grade level sections!


You can view the site here: ABCya

This is one of the resources I use in addition to my children's homeschool lessons. My children love it. Hope you enjoy it too. Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear from you.

RelaxZen Shots Giveaway

RelaxZen Day

Stress affects the body and mind. RelaxZen works with your body to de-stress your mind, increase your focus and balance your mood. With natural herbs, vitamins and amino acids, there’s never been a better time to live a RelaxZen Life

RelaxZen Night

Sound sleep is the foundation of a healthy life. A good night's sleep can help with everything from weight control to improving memory. RelaxZen NIGHT's sleep ingredients help you get the best night's sleep you have ever had.

RelaxZen Day and Night Benefits


Reduce stress and fatigue
Increase focus and alertness
Balance mood
Enhance productivity


For more information visit their website RelaxZen or Like RelaxZen on Facebook. RelaxZen Shots are also available through  http://www.thirstmonger.com/m-31-relaxzen.aspx   Use this code: SMILE (for 10% off plus free shipping on any RelaxZen product).


I was so excited to receive this product. Who doesn't need a little energy boost in the day and help falling asleep at night especially after a full day with the kids or a stressful day at work. I am passing on the RelaxZen Shots to one of you if you win. I hope you enjoy the product. I am still nursing and unfortunately I cannot use it right now, bummer. I was sooo looking forward to trying it. So if you are pregnant or nursing this is not the product for you (see below). Let me know what you think of it when you win!

Winner will receive:

 1 pair Day Calm Focus 2.5 fl. oz and Night Sleep Soundly 2.5 fl. oz RelaxZen Shots

Mandatory Entry:

Follow Tickles & Tots via Google Friend Connect - 1 Entry

Extra entry:

Follow Tickles & Tots on Twitter - 1 Entry

Follow Tickles & Tots on Facebook - 1 Entry

Follow Tickles & Tots on Networked Blogs - 1 Entry

Subscribe to Tickles & Tots via RSS - 1 Entry

Like Relaxzen on Facebook - 1 Entry

Become a follower on Twitter (Relaxzen) - 1 Entry

Giveaway ends on February 8, 2011. The winner will be notified by email. Please include your email address with each entry, winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be selected. You must be a follower to win. Leave one comment per entry.


Warning: RelaxZen is not suitable for pregnant or lactating women. This product is not recommended for children under the age of 12.

Disclaimer: I received this product from RelaxZen courtesy of Smile.ly. I received this product for free in exchange for my honest opinion and review. I was not compensated in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed are solely my own.

Box Tops Big Surprise - Watch the video to support the program

Did you know that by simply participating in the Box Tops for Education^® program, America´s schools can earn over $50 million this school year? To kick off another year of helping communities raise money for education, we held a special celebration.





My thoughts:

I just love the reaction of the shoppers in the grocery store. They were so caught of guard and surprised. I thought this was a really cute video and wasn't the O'Connor H. S. Band  from Phoenix A.Z. just great, with lots of smiling faces and they were full of enthusiasm. You will laugh when you see the children dancing and customers clapping. I liked the smiles from the guys behind the counter in the meat dept. See for yourself. Help support our schools!

Video and information provided courtesy of 

We hope you share this video with friends to show your support and help us raise awareness for the program so that we can help our kids´ schools earn even more cash!

Visit Box Tops For Education to earn points for your school or to learn more information about the program. Thanks for watching.

Book Review - Midnight Rising - Warning Signs for this Generation

 

Book: Midnight Rising -  Warning Signs for this Generation

Author: W. M. Anderson Simpson

Book Synopsis: During the U.S. elections of 2008, a number of Evangelicals began raising the cry that the rapture is near. Midnight Rising-Warning Signs for This Generation presents in stark terms, the reasons why a growing number of Evangelicals believe that the times and the seasons are upon us. In this volume, the nation from which the Antichrist will arise is made perfectly clear. Wm. Anderson Simpson shows signs that are not commonly discussed in relation to this topic, and makes a strong argument for the correctness of the Evangelicals’ urgent call for teaching and preaching concerning the things about to burst forth onto the world stage.

Midnight Rising speaks of the Rapture, The End Times, the Tribulation, Armageddon, peace in the Middle East, false gods rising up appearing to be like the one true God, wars and battles, the Anti-Christ, worldwide famine, disasters and biblical prophecy.

The book explains in detail how "prophecy from the Bible is being fulfilled in our day and time and yet some don't even realize it. It uncovers how the Church has been lulled into hopelessness concerning the Rapture". It speaks of the financial crisis, the end of the world system and as the "economies of the world collapse the United States will still emerge as the clear leader under the guidance of the devil himself, personified in the Antichrist".

The case is made that "Christians and the church need to continue in the ministry of reconciliation and that many will perish because they have rejected the free gift of salvation God provided through Christ. People seek heaven by their own merits, and not by God's grace and their name will not be in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."

My thoughts:

Midnight Rising is an excellent resource for prophetic research, bible prophecy, biblical studies or anyone trying to find a deeper understanding of the End Times and its meaning. There are numerous scriptural references from the Bible that support the writers argument pertaining to the End Times.

We are living in perilous times and there has never been before such an urgency to spread the news of the Gospel of Christ to all the world. So many people are being persecuted for their belief in God and they are not allowed to worship freely. There will come a day when God will return to establish His kingdom and many will be unaware and caught off guard. When Christ returns will you be ready?

For more information about Midnight Rising - Warning Signs for this Generation or to purchase your copy visit: Midnight Rising also Like their page on Facebook.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book courtesy of Bring it on Communications. I provided an open and honest review and I was not compensated in any way.

Book Review - The Next Great Move Of God

Book: The Next Great Move Of God Author: Dr. LaSalle R. Vaughn

Book Synopsis: Christians all over the world are crying out with great sincerity and passion, “God, we need another great revival!” Constantly in search of God’s face, we persistently look for the power of God to manifest in our lives. In seemingly insignificant pockets around the world, the first wave of the revival has already begun. While living in the most ominous times in our world, born-again believers are hearing the clarion call of God to return to the root of their forefathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Guided by their Bible, steadfast Christians are returning to prayer; they’re returning to the Torah. The Torah takes man on a spiritual journey to understand his Creator, as well as himself. He is destined to become more like his Creator through this journey. Thus, the journey, his destiny begins.


A brief listing of some of the chapters covered in The Next Great Move Of God are as follows:

• Restoring the Hebraic Roots of Our Faith
• Symbols of Our Faith
• Understanding the Times
• Keys to the Heart of the Kingdom

LaSalle speaks of "Reuniting with God, this is a time of refreshing and repenting. In his words, God is calling for Christians to discover the true meaning of His word. Walking in a lifestyle that will bring about the inheritance that was meant for you since the foundation of this world."

"God will restore all things - His presence, His power, and His purpose".

God wants to spend time with us and for us to know Him and His Word and to experience Him on a deeper level. We are not to be wavering in our faith neither hot nor cold. Christians are to passionately love God. When you love someone you want to spend every moment with them. The same should be of our love relationship with God. You have to spend time with Him in order to know Him - you can accomplish this by studying His Word, setting aside time each day to pray and have fellowship with God.


My thoughts:
I thought the book was well written and thoroughly researched when covering topics such as the Torah, Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, The Passover and Hebraic roots. The Next Great Move Of God comes at a time where the church needs to be reminded to turn their hearts back to God and renew their fellowship with Him. Often times we turn away from the things of God in search of wordly comfort only to find ourselves left feeling empty inside, when we have the answer all along. 

I am thoroughly convinced that God is calling for the true Christians to stand up and take their rightful place as believers and walk with confidence and boldness in the things of God. We are to continue to live our lives in such a way that other people will see God manifested within us. There are numerous scripture references which makes this an excellent tool for Bible scholars, biblical research, bible study and church discussion groups or anyone searching for ways to restore their relationship with God.


For more information or to purchase a copy of the book visit: The Next Great Move Of God. Follow and Like the book on Facebook for more discussions and updates. You can also follow via Twitter.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review courtesy of Bring it on Communications. All thoughts and opinions expressed were solely my own. I did not receive any compensation for this review.

Happy New Year!

I hope everyone has a safe, prosperous and blessed New Year. I am really excited for all of the new opportunities that are coming my way and I will be sharing some of them with you shortly. Thank you for listening and reading and sharing in this blogging journey with me.

As I sit here and reflect on these last few weeks prior to the New Year, I am just thankful to have my life, health and strength. I am leaving anything that will hinder me from moving forward in the past and I am looking forward to all the new possibilities and blessings this year has to bring. I hope all of you complete everything that you intend to accomplish this year.

My new saying  - Happy Veinte Once (vayn-tay ohn-say) 2011!

Disclaimer: New Years photo/image courtesy of Photo bucket.