A Question For My Readers

I was wondering what you guys think about the reviews and giveaways. How are you liking them? Do you find them helpful? Do you like the giveaways? Are there certain kinds of products you would like to see reviewed or have opportunities to win? I'm open to any and all suggestions, so suggest away!

Whoa, that was NOT cool.

I woke up in the middle of the night with a slight headache and by the time my alarm went off for church this morning, I was miserable. My head hurt so bad that I just shut off the alarm and went back to sleep. Brian and the boys got up around 8:00 and I stayed in bed. I didn't get out of bed until almost noon. This is unheard of for me these days. I got up and ate some cereal, drank some water and took some Excedrin. Things continued to go downhill from there. I was so nauseous and miserable and kept running into the bathroom because I was sure I was going to be sick. I ended up wrapping myself up in a blanket and crashing on the couch for about an hour and a half. When I woke up, Brian had dinner ready and I ate something. So far, so good. My head doesn't feel 100%, but compared to what I felt like earlier, I'll take it. Hopefully I'll continue to feel better and be all good by tomorrow morning. I have so much I want to get done around the house and I really need to get on it tomorrow. So, here's hopin'.

Oh, and don't forget the giveaways that end tomorrow night! Be sure to get your entries in by clicking on the links on the right of my blog under "Current Giveaways" and reading the directions to be sure you enter as many of the different ways as are mentioned! Good luck, everybody!

Back Home

We just got home after spending Wednesday through today at my Mom and Dad's house with my sisters, their spouses and my niece. We had such a great time hanging out and just spending time together. It does feel good to be home now though and I'm looking forward to sleeping in my own bed tonight. In fact, I'm about to head off to bed now, so I'll get on here with a better post tomorrow. ;-)

~WINNERS~

Here are the winners for this week! They have been emailed and have 24 hours to respond. If they do not respond within that time period, I will use Random.org to choose new winners.

Here they are...

The winner of the Gingerbread Jar Candle from Cinnamon Creek Country Candles is comment #26 - Desiree


The winner of the 6 pack of Lip Balm from My Lip Stuff is comment #29 - spitfyr323



Congratulations, ladies!!!

MIA

So, I haven't been posting as much as usual, but I've caught a purging and organizing bug and I am trying to take full advantage of that. I've been doing projects like cleaning out linen closets, doing a complete sweep of my oldest boys' room, getting rid of whatever I come across that I feel compelled to throw away, etc. If you know me, you know I don't often get all that motivated to do projects like this (ok, or even to be that good of a housekeeper on a daily basis) so you can understand why I don't want to waste this sudden burst of cleaning energy. So, that's what I've been up to. I'll be in and out from Wednesday through Sunday evening, so I probably won't be doing a whole lot of posting during that time, but I promise I'll be back to regular posting next week.

Don't miss seeing who the winners of the two giveaways that are ending tonight are. I will post them tomorrow morning! I hope everyone is doing well and getting excited for Thanksgiving...I know I sure am!

LAST DAY TO ENTER TO WIN GINGERBREAD CANDLE AND LIP BALM SET!

If you haven't already entered to win these great giveaways, hurry and enter now. Just click on the links to take you directly to the posts. The entries close at 11:59 tonight and I will be announcing the winners tomorrow. Good luck!

Gingerbread Cookies Jar Candle from Cinnamon Creek Country Candles


6 Pack of Lip Balm from My Lip Stuff

Book Review: Read and Share The Story of Christmas by Gwen Ellis Illustrated by Steve Smallman

With Christmas just around the corner, I wanted to really start focusing on the true meaning of it all. Everywhere you turn, there are images of Santa and presents and all the stuff that goes with it, but my biggest concern is making sure my kids don't get so caught up in all that stuff and instead, really understand the gift we've been given. I was fortunate to be able to review a book and DVD set that does a great job of explaining the story of Christmas. This is at an age level that is perfect for my 4 year old, but maybe a little too young for my 7 1/2 and almost 11 year olds. The DVD that came along with the book really held my 4 year old's attention, with the way it is segmented. He liked it so much that he was telling his dad all about it and really seemed to understand what it was saying. Overall, I am very happy with this book/DVD set. It's a great way to help young kids understand the story of Christmas and will be a great addition to our nap and bedtime reading throughout the time leading up to Christmas...and beyond.

Here's a description of the book:

Book Description

The Story of Christmas from the Read and Share™ Bible is a colorful retelling of the birth of Christ and the events surrounding it.

Based on the International Children’s Bible, this book begins with the birth of John the Baptist. Next comes the angel appearing first to Mary, then to Joseph, the trip to Bethlehem, the birth of Jesus, the angel’s announcement to the shepherds, the wise men and their gifts, fleeing to Egypt, and at last heading home to Nazareth. The “Can You Retell the Story” activity at the end of the book is a fun way for children to learn to tell the story themselves.

The animated DVD includes a 15-minute story plus coloring pages and other bonus features.

I was sent this book as a member of Thomas Nelson’s Book Review Blogger program. http://brb.thomasnelson.com/

The Gift of an Ordinary Day by Katrina Kenison *With a Giveaway!*

I don't remember the last time my heart was so touched by a book, if ever. This book just drew me in and held me captive by it's truths. There were so many things I found captivating about the book, like the detailed way the author describes places and situations. I felt like I could see the places she was speaking of and feel the emotions she described. What touched me the most though, was the way she helped me to pause and realize the beauty my life is filled with most on those ordinary days when my family just "is", when there is no rushing, no planned events, no agenda, just the days when we simply live. What a great reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty in the simple days and remember that things will change eventually, so to live in the moment.

Being a mother of boys really helped me identify with the author and her experiences. Being that I have 3 boys with very different and distinct personalities, I very much appreciated the things she had to say about what being "great" or "successful" looks like for our children. She talks about being able to see the beauty in our children and to not measure their successes based on what the world says they should be or do, but to love and appreciate them for who they are. I think this is such an important thing to remember to be able to support your children's unique gifts and talents.

The book also addressed how when you are a mother, so much of your identity is in just that, being a mom. With her two sons growing up and getting ready to leave home, she begins a journey of discovering who she is apart from being a mother. I think this is so important because I hear a lot of people say that once their children left home, they felt like they didn't know who they were anymore. Not only that, but it is a very difficult time of letting go and she talks about trying to do that with love and to be accepting of the changes in life.

Just a great book that has certainly changed my view on life and makes me want to be a better mother to my boys in these precious fleeting years I have with them. It's not about where you are, but about truly being present in each and every day and enjoying these all too short years we have with our children so that someday we will look back and smile on all the sweet ordinary days and remember just how blessed we truly are.

I loved this book so much and want others to share the joy that I received from it. Hachette Book Group USA has been kind enough to offer 5 copies of The Gift of an Ordinary Day to my readers! Yes, 5 of you will win a copy of this awesome book!

Below are the ways you can enter...

This contest will be open until 11:59 PM on December 7th. At that time I will use random.org to determine the winner. The winner will then be emailed and have 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will choose a new winner. This contest is open to U.S. and Canadian residents.

Leave separate comments for each entry and leave your email address in this form - Jane (at) yahoo (dot) com

Mandatory Entry: Give me an example of an "ordinary day" that you have enjoyed with your family. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

Follow my blog-You can use this as an entry whether you are a new follower or a current follower (1 entry)

Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and leave me the link to your post (5 entries) This counts as 5 separate entries so leave a comment for each and just number them.

That's 7 chances to win! Good luck!

Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

Thank you to Hachette Book Group for the review copy of this book and for sponsoring this giveaway.

Great Gift Idea #9 - Seeds Family Worship CDs *With a Giveaway!*

I've found something that brings a smile to my face and makes not only my mouth, but my soul sing as well. The CDs that I was sent to review from Seeds Family Worship are more than just music, they are scripture set to music and I am in love with this concept and this company! We have done some serious rocking out and had so much fun with these CDs already. We have one in the van that the boys demand be turned on every time we get in. Riley and Asher love to listen to it in the morning while we sit at the school after dropping Gavin off and wait until the doors open for Riley to go in. What a great way to start our day, along with our morning prayers! My heart just swells when I hear my little boys singing God's Word and smiling and having so much fun doing it. Truly blissful. Can you tell I love these CDs?!

There are 5 CDs in all and each come with a duplicate that you can give to someone else (like you're helping plant a seed, get it?). They are Seeds of Courage, Seeds of Faith, Seeds of Praise, Seeds of Purpose and The Power of Encouragement. The singers on the tracks are great and I enjoy it just as much as the kids. There are also kids singing in some parts and kids always love that. Not only do the songs consist of the scripture, but they also contain the reference so you can look it up with your kids in their Bibles and show them that it comes right from God's Word. I love this because it helps me memorize the verses too. It's not only great for the kids, but great for Brian and I and it's really fun to all be able to learn scripture together as a family in such a fun way.

That's not all that Seeds Family Worship has to offer though! On their website you can find all sorts of great resources and tools. You can print out memory cards and a verse memorization checklist for your kids. Your kids can get great ideas for ways to make a difference. You can find great ideas for family worship. There are even great resources for Children's Pastors. You will find all kinds of great stuff there, so be sure to check that out.

Here is the song that is our family's current favorite...


I know most of you are Christian moms and I'm sure that your kids knowing the Lord's Word is something that is very important to you too, so I know you will love these CDs as much as our family does.

Seeds Family Worship wants to share a set of these 5 CDs with one of my readers. The CDs will have duplicates with them that you can share with someone else as well. What a great way to plant the seed of God's Word into someone else's life. Below are the ways you can win...

This contest will be open until 11:59 PM on December 7th. At that time I will use random.org to determine the winner. The winner will then be emailed and have 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will choose a new winner. This contest is open to U.S. residents.

Leave separate comments for each entry and leave your email address in this form - Jane (at) yahoo (dot) com

Mandatory Entry: Visit Seeds Family Worship and take a look around. Come back and tell me one thing that looks interesting to you on the website that I didn't mention above. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

Follow my blog-You can use this as an entry whether you are a new follower or a current follower (1 entry)

Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and leave me the link to your post (5 entries) This counts as 5 separate entries so leave a comment for each and just number them.

That's 7 chances to win! Good luck!

Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

WINNERS - ChristianGiftsPlace.com

The numbers generated by the random number generator at random.org that chose the winners for this giveaway are...


Comment #16 - Kelly (winner of the Framed Adorned Cross-Faith)


CONGRATULATIONS, LADIES!


You have been emailed and have 24 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.


UPDATE: One of the winners did not contact me within the 24 hour time period, so the new winner is comment #26 - Lauren (winner of the Cast Iron Cross Trivet)

Yay, Lauren!

Great Gift Idea #8 - Virtual World for Kids at JumpStart.com *With a Giveaway!*

My kids love to play on the computer, but we are very careful about what kind of sites they are allowed to go on and like to check them out before we let them go on them. When I saw the JumpStart.com virtual world for kids website, I knew my boys would love it and that it would be something I could trust.

I was given the opportunity to check it all out and to let my kids play and see what they thought of it. First of all, they got to create their own Jumpee (an avatar that looks like them) which they thought was really cool. Then, they got to pick a screen name. I thought this was particularly cool and a great feature they offer because the kids do not use their actual name, they get to choose from a list of names and create a silly screen name. This just adds to the safety of the website. The game is geared toward kids from ages 3-10 and there are several different "worlds" they can go to depending on their age. There are so many activities for each of them to do that I can't possibly list them all, but some of the things my kids really like and that I think are really cool too are that they can do math problems or reading activities to advance through the game, they can search for coins that they gather up and can go and buy pets and other things in their "world", and the site is constantly changing. New things are always added and incorporated into the game. Right now there are leaves falling in all the worlds because it is fall, so I'm guessing we'll be seeing snow on the game before too long. They also have a little game within the game right now of finding Thanksgiving items throughout the "worlds".

Here are some screenshots from the game to give you an idea of the graphics and what it's all about...





I knew Asher would love the game and he absolutely does. He calls it his "Story Land" game because that's the "world" that is for his age group. Riley keeps giving me updates on his progress, what level he's on and what he's buying with the coins he finds. Gavin, well, I was afraid that since he is almost 11 and tends to be quick to label things as being "too babyish" for him that he might not get into the game. I was wrong! He loves doing all the math problems and he and Riley keep comparing notes on where they are on the game. I am thrilled that all 3 of them love it so much and are having so much fun with it.

I guess the only problem with the game is that the kids want to play it constantly! That actually isn't much of a problem because it creates a great opportunity for me to use it as a reward for getting homework and chores done well and without complaints. I'm sure you other moms will be able to appreciate using it in the same way.

This game is perfect for all 3 of my boys and I love that I can be confident that they are having fun online in a safe and educational environment. The learning activities incorporated into the game aspect of it make it not just a mindless game but one that reinforces what my kids are learning and teaches them new things too. I could not be happier with this game! There are great features for parents as well, like the JumpStart Blog!

This would make an excellent gift to your kids this Christmas, so be sure to check it out at JumpStart.com


The wonderful people at JumpStart have offered to give one of my lucky readers a free 3 month membership to JumpStart.com that I know your kids will love! Below are the ways you can enter to win this awesome giveaway...

This contest will be open until 11:59 PM on December 7th. At that time I will use random.org to determine the winner. The winner will then be emailed and have 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will choose a new winner. This contest is open to U.S. residents.

Leave separate comments for each entry and leave your email address in this form - Jane (at) yahoo (dot) com

Mandatory Entry: Visit JumpStart.com and take a look around. Come back and tell me one thing that looks interesting to you about the game that I didn't mention above. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

Follow my blog-You can use this as an entry whether you are a new follower or a current follower (1 entry)

Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and leave me the link to your post (5 entries) This counts as 5 separate entries so leave a comment for each and just number them.

That's 7 chances to win! Good luck!

Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

I need a kick in the pants.

As you may know, I have lost 26 pounds since June. I have maintained that weight-loss for the past 6 weeks. What's the problem then? Well, I still have about 15 pounds left to lose and I have no motivation whatsoever to do it. I mean, I really want to, but with the holiday fun already starting and all the good food around constantly...well, I know I'm going to have a hard time resisting, which means a hard time not gaining. I worked out for the first time in months on Friday and it felt good to do something productive for my body, but did I like it enough to want to keep doing it? Um, no. I just am in a funk with this whole weight-loss thing right now and it's really bothering me. I DO NOT want to gain any weight back. I was so uncomfortable in my own skin (or fat) before and was self-conscious and miserable about it. I cannot and will not go back there. Besides, I got rid of all my clothes that were too big, so I can't. LOL I am excited for my friend, Ann, to get back from Ireland because she told me before she left that she'd like to be workout accountability partners with me. I think that will help me a ton. My husband is so motivated and has lost about 50 pounds and is working out pretty much daily to gain muscle and tone up now, and it just makes me feel like crud to see him doing so good and me sitting on my butt. He is very supportive, but he also isn't going to force me to workout. So, here's hoping that being accountable to Ann with my working out will be just what I need to get back on track and kick this last bit of flab that's hanging around on me. I know that I'll feel amazing once it's gone. Wish me luck, say a little prayer or kick me the next time you see me (if you're someone I see) and please be gentle ;-) I'll keep you updated on how I'm doing with the whole thing. Plus, I can't wait to post the before and after pictures of my weight-loss journey. I promise you will be shocked.

Yay for cute dresses!

Most of the time, I'm a pants kinda gal, but occasionally I like to wear a dress and just switch it up a little. I like unique, cute dresses though. I found a company that has the cutest dresses. Some of them are really simple and I like that because I could dress them up with different accessories and make them my own. Then, there are ones that have a lot of detail and that have no need for accessories to go with them. The company with these awesome dresses...Shabby Apple. I think the name is cute and catchy!

I was sent the 90 Words Per Minute dress to review. I have to admit that I was a little nervous of how it would work with my body, seeing as it has ruching on the sides and me being just over 5 feet tall, I wondered if the ruching would lay at the right place on my body. Well, I got the dress and put it on and it fit so cute! I was so surprised to see it fit me the way it did. The material is so light and comfy, it was like wearing a nightgown or something...very light and flowy feeling. The color is a teal blue and is one of my favorite colors to wear, so that was great too. There is a tie up at the neck that is a really cute detail and removes the need for a necklace. This dress with a pair of nice heels and fancy earrings would dress it up really nice. Or, you could wear it with knee-high boots and some funky earrings and look trendy and cute! Whether it's out to dinner with your husband, to church or one of the many holiday parties coming up, this dress would be great for any and all of them! Check out the picture below and you'll see what I mean.



I love the dresses that Shabby Apple has to offer, but that isn't all they have! They also have fitness wear, maternity, clothing for young girls and pre-teens and they have gorgeous accessories that I am dying to get my hands on. Here's a few examples of what they carry.








If you have a holiday party coming up, they have several dresses that would be perfect! I think you will love what you see, so check out Shabby Apple. I will definitely be looking to them the next time I need a dress.

Thank you to Shabby Apple for allowing me to review one of your great items!



Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

Simple Pleasures

I have had such a nice morning. The sun is shining beautifully and as I look out my window, I see just a few lingering leaves fluttering on the trees in my backyard and nothing but blue sky behind them. It is truly a beautiful day the Lord has given us. I also had the pleasure of spending the morning with an old friend. After dropping the two older boys off at school this morning, I headed to her house and picked her up and we went to JoAnn Fabrics for a little shopping trip. After that, we headed back to her house for coffee and some long overdue catching up. She suddenly decided to whip up a batch of molasses cookies (which are one of my absolute favorite kinds) and we enjoyed warm gooey molasses cookies with our coffee. Simply delicious! Her sister came over too and we all just sat around the kitchen table and talked about anything and everything. It was just such a nice time of catching up and having that comfort of being in the presence of a familiar friend. We talked about our faith and how far we've come in the years that we've known each other and it is truly just amazing how far we really have come. I just enjoyed this morning so much and am sitting here now, with the sun filtering through my window and warming me and I can't help but smile. God is so good.

A couple great teaching tools

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to review 2 great books from New Leaf Publishing Group that I really thought my boys would enjoy. Here's some info about them that I thought some of you homeschooling mommas would probably like to hear about and even just other moms like me who are trying to give their boys sound Biblical teaching and answers about all the questions they ask.


First up is Tower of Babel Pop-Up and Read. During one of our devotions a couple of weeks ago, the two older boys started asking questions about why people speak different languages and look so different. I told them about the Tower of Babel, but they didn't really seem to understand and honestly, I could have used more knowledge of it myself. So, when I saw this book, I had a good idea that it was just what we needed to help make things more clear for not only our boys, but for myself as well.

Here is some info about the book (as found on the publisher's website and back cover of the book)...

What is Babel, what happened there, and why is it so important? Many kids don't know the answers to these questions as biblical knowledge is becoming less and less of a priority in people's lives. This fun format book is a great way to teach kids about the reality of the Babel story and its significance in their lives.

The full-color book explains how the different languages and "races" came about and is in unique format with one large pop-up that stays up as you turn the pages and read the story. The stunning artwork is both beautiful and realistic, as it is based on the actual worship towers that were built in ancient times. This fun tool is a great way to teach the reality of the biblical story.

Casebound • 9 3/8 x 10 1/4 • 24 Pages


You may have noticed that it has a large pop-up feature. Well, I can tell you that that was a huge hit with the boys. They all crowded around me on the couch to be able to see it and the colors and illustrations throughout the book were equally as impressive. We asked the kids some questions after reading the book and had a good discussion and they really seemed to grasp the answers the book gave them to their questions. In fact, my 7 year old is begging to take it to school because he says that everyone should know about that. I'm thinking he actually just wants to show everyone the pop-up part, but I could be wrong. In any case, the book was informative and I know we'll be reading it again and again (that's kind of a given with a 4 year old who is obsessed with books). And honestly, when it's educational and more importantly, Biblical, I don't mind reading a book over and over.





The second book I reviewed was super cool! Honestly one of the most intriguing and informative kids' books that I have ever read and it deals with one of my boys' favorite things...dinosaurs! The book is called Dinosaurs for Kids and is by Ken Ham. First off, the colors and illustrations draw you in right from the beginning. The book addresses 7 different ages of dinosaurs, 1.Formed, 2.Fearless, 3.Fallen, 4.Flood, 5.Faded, 6.Found and 7.Fiction...all the questions you (or your kids) have had about dinosaurs seems to be addressed in this book. There are quick facts on nearly all the pages, as well as detailed descriptions of things like the dinosaur names and how to pronounce them, why evolution doesn't work and the Biblical truth behind creation, what they ate, etc. This book is just full of interesting information and lots of it! I've read through it, but haven't gotten all the way through with the boys yet. I already know though, that they are going to love the whole entire book. If you have kids, I know this book will be a hit in your house. Honestly, I'm intrigued by it! It's one you definitely want to check out!


You can find these books at nlpg.com , amazon.com or christianbook.com

Great Gift Idea #7 Hip-T *With a Giveaway!*

(Picture taken from MyHip-T.com)


I have a lot of shirts that are just slightly too short to be comfortable. I'm talking the shirts where you lean over and feel that your lower back is completely exposed and can guess that your underwear is also visible to any innocent bystander that may be around. Not my idea of cute and I'm guessing it's not yours either.

There's this great company out there that came up with a simple and perfectly effective way of eliminating this sort of uncomfortable spectacle. They are called Hip-T and they are basically the lower half of a shirt that you slip on and then put your top shirt over. This would be especially nice in the summer when it's hot and you hate to have to layer shirts. This little marvel is great for not only hiding your underwear and lower back, but also the dreaded muffin top some of us unfortunately experience.

I was able to review the black original Hip-T and I can already tell I'm going to get a ton of use out of it. It fits perfectly (sized according to your pants size) and looks just like I'm wearing a layering t-shirt underneath my shirt. While I just reviewed a solid colored one, there are several cute printed ones to add some punch to a solid colored shirt. I'm thinking this could be a real hit for a teenage girl for Christmas. It's like a whole new way of accessorizing.

I'm really happy with the fit and the product does just what they claim it will do. You should go to the Hip-T website and check out all they have to offer...I think you'll really like it!

Now, wouldn't you like to win a Hip-T of your own? Well, you can! Just do the things below.

This contest will be open until 11:59 PM on November 30th. At that time I will use random.org to determine the winner. The winner will then be emailed and have 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will choose a new winner. This contest is open to U.S. residents.

Leave separate comments for each entry and leave your email address in this form - Jane (at) yahoo (dot) com

Mandatory Entry: Visit Hip-T and take a look around. Come back and tell me which Hip-T you like best. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

Follow my blog-You can use this as an entry whether you are a new follower or a current follower (1 entry)

Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and leave me the link to your post (5 entries)

That's 7 chances to win! Good luck!

Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

Just a little rant...

I get so irritated by the content that is on t.v. at all hours of the day that is so completely inappropriate. Constant half-naked girls, women being portrayed as nothing more than sexual objects, perverse humor (that I ironically don't really find to be all that funny), swearing, innuendos, kid actors being disrespectful and sarcastic brats, etc. It's completely ridiculous! Brian and I have been talking a lot about how our cable is switching over to digital and we will soon lose most of our channels and that we refuse to spend the outrageous amounts of money that will be necessary to have the channels we've had. Most importantly, we've been talking about that between streaming video from the internet, services such as Netflix and the resources at our church library, we will still have plenty of t.v. available to us and will be able to ensure that our kids are seeing only appropriate things when they turn on the t.v. at our house. I'm in no way naive to the fact that they will still be subjected to these kinds of things when they go over to friends' houses and things like that, but I think it's important for them to see that it's important to us to not fill our minds with these types of images, but to instead seek entertainment that we can feel good about and that is in line with our beliefs and our faith. This has just really been getting to me lately and when my youngest son said "Well, that's suckage." when I told him it was time to write his letters during homeschool the one day and when I asked him where he heard that, he told me it was from a show on Nickelodeon, I knew it was getting out of hand. It's time to make some changes around here. Afterall "Be careful little eyes what you see, be careful little ears what you hear..."


Aaaahhhh, that feels better. Thank you for allowing me to vent.

Great Gift Idea #6 - Gorgeous and Unique Christian Necklaces from A New Thing *With a Giveaway!*

Jewelry, jewelry, jewelry...this girl loves jewelry! I am all about my faith too and love to share it in unique ways. So, what better way for me to do that than with a Christian Necklace. The unique look of these necklaces from A New Thing makes them a conversation piece, which opens up the opportunity to share your faith!

I have been fortunate enough to be able to communicate back and forth with Marcy, the creator of these beautiful necklaces. She is a wonderful Christian woman and mother and has shared some ways in which God has answered prayers in hers and her family's lives. It's always wonderful to hear other believers share their experiences with the Lord. She also was very sweet and blessed me with my choice of necklace to review. I chose the I am Free soldered glass pendant. This particular pendant held a lot of meaning for me because it is just a reminder to me of how far I have come over the past 3 years (I'm a fairly new Christian) and how I am now free of the sin and the shame of my past because of the blood of Jesus. Such a wonderful gift I've been given and I love to share that with others. Not only are the drawing of the birdcage and the sweet little bird bead adorable, but on the back is written "Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free. John 8:32". The really cool thing too, is I can wear the necklace with the verse showing if I want to, so it's really like a reversible necklace. I honestly have never seen any Christian jewelry like this. It's so unique, beautiful and meaningful. See for yourself below...



I know that most of my readers are Christian women and I really felt that this would be a company you would absolutely want to know about. Not only for gifts, but for yourself as well. She has so many pieces to choose from and her prices are beyond reasonable (in fact, I think she is being very generous by offering them for the prices she does). Best of all though, she is a very sweet Christian woman and I absolutely want to support someone like that.

Marcy wants to bless one of my readers as well. Not only is she offering one of her beautiful necklaces, but she is going to let the winner choose which one they would like! I think that is so sweet of her! I can't imagine that any of you are going to want to pass this chance up. So, here's what you need to do...



This contest will be open until 11:59 PM on November 30th. At that time I will use random.org to determine the winner. The winner will then be emailed and have 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will choose a new winner. This contest is open to U.S. residents.

Leave separate comments for each entry and leave your email address in this form - Jane (at) yahoo (dot) com

Mandatory Entry: Visit A New Thing and take a look around. Come back and tell me which necklace you would like to have if you win. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

Follow my blog (1 entry)

Make a purchase from A New Thing and leave a comment here letting me know you did
(5 entries)

Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and leave me the link to your post (5 entries)


That's 8 chances to win! Good luck!!!





Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

New Winner!

One of the winners of the coffee cup cozy retracted her entry, so the new winner is....


Comment #9 - Jeni



Congrats, Jeni!

WINNERS - Coffee Cup Cozies from Cafe Boulet!

Here are the winners of the coffee cup cozies from Cafe Boulet. All have been emailed and have 24 hours to respond. Thank you so much ladies! My first giveaway was fun and I am excited about the others I have going on right now and the ones to come!


Winners

Comment #2 - gahome2mom

Comment #4 - Erin

Comment #28 - Jodi


CONGRATULATIONS LADIES!

Great Gift Idea #5- Yummy Lip Balm from My Lip Stuff *With a Giveaway!*

I'm a huge fan of lip balm, especially during the dry winter months. I'm kind of picky about my lip balm though, because certain flavors kinda gross me out. I found this awesome company that has the biggest selection of lip balm flavors I have ever seen! In fact, My Lip Stuff has over 500 flavors!!! Here's a little blurp of what they have to tell you about their company...

"Welcome to your new addiction. My Lip Stuff Natural Lip Balm in over 500 flavors.
My Lip Stuff lip balm is the perfect blend of butters, oils, and beeswax to moisturize dry lips!
Add to that the fact that our company is earth and animal friendly- and you have yourself the perfect lip balm!
Over 500 flavors currently available and new flavors added all the time. Special request flavor orders also available.
We offer tons of different label choices in different themes-- so there is surely something for everyone.
We do offer personalized lip balm, custom label lip balm, private label lip balm, and promotional lip balm too!"

Did you catch that? You can personalize your lip balm! If you have an event that you'd like a uniqe favor for, what would be cooler than this? They also have limited edition holiday lip balms, so if you're having a hard time choosing flavors for gifts, you could choose from the holiday editions to help narrow it down for ya.

Brea sent me 6 different lip balms. I was sent Hot Fudge Sundae, Rainbow Sherbet, Coconut, Candy Cane, Painkiller and a special Halloween edition in Pumpkin Cobbler. I used the Pumpkin Cobbler this whole weekend and my aunts, cousins and sisters I was with all kept saying how good it smelled and I was even nice and let a couple of them use it. My lips felt so soft and I loved the slight glossy look that it gave my lips. I honestly can't wait to open up and use the other flavors because I am betting they are just as good. I am very happy with the quality of this lip balm and I know you will be too.

Brea was kind enough to offer a random 6 pack of lip balm (a $13 value) to one of my lucky readers! Wouldn't you like to try one of these awesome lip balms...or 6?! Here's what you need to do...

This contest will be open until 11:59 PM on November 23rd. At that time I will use random.org to determine the winner. The winner will then be emailed and have 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will choose a new winner. This contest is open to U.S. residents.

Leave separate comments for each entry and leave your email address in this form - Jane (at) yahoo (dot) com

Mandatory Entry: Visit My Lip Stuff and take a look around. Come back and tell me a flavor other than the flavors I have mentioned above, that you would love. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

Follow my blog (1 entry)

Tell me what kind of event you think would be cool to use the personalized lip balm for (1 entry)

Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and leave me the link to your post (5 entries)


That's 8 chances to win! Good luck!!!





Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

Last Day To Enter To Win Coffee Cup Cozy!

At 11:59 tonight, entries will be closed for the Coffee Cup Cozies from Cafe Boulet. There are 3 up for grabs, so if you haven't entered yet, go here and get your entries in! I will email the winners and post them tomorrow morning. Good luck everyone!

Great Gift Idea #4- Cutest Candles You've Ever Seen From Cinnamon Creek Country Candles *With a Giveaway!*

I LOVE candles. I have candles burning pretty much every day and I'm a sucker for a yummy dessert-smelling candle. I've seen a lot of different candles in my day, but none even remotely like the ones I found at Cinnamon Creek Country Candles (just the name sounds warm and cozy, doesn't it?). She has 400 different fragrances and hundreds of molds, so you can request something you have in mind and she will try to make it for you! The candles are made with 100% soy wax and she makes her own embeds out of soy wax as well. She uses only lead-free and zinc-free wicks, so these candles burn very clean. She scents them to the max too, so they smell amazing when they are burning. Seriously, there's so many good things about these candles, I could just go on and on.

I was given the opportunity to review an item of my choosing and I simply could not resist the GINGERBREAD GOODIES - Grubby Bakery Soy Candle - Jelly Jar. I love gingerbread and the cute little wax gingerbread man and tree, along with the sprinkles and little gingham bow...just cuteness bliss, I tell ya! When it arrived in the mail and I opened the box, I could immediately smell it. Simply divine. I excitedly unwrapped it and it was even cuter than I imagined. My kids even think it's cool and they usually could care less about the stuff that "crazy Mom" gets all excited about. Oh, and the smell! Makes the house smell like a cozy Christmas cottage with a tree with twinkling lights, a fire crackling in the fireplace and fresh cookies on the table...ok, that's what I envisioned in my head in my amazing candle induced stupor, but it really smells that good. I truly have found my new favorite candles. Look at how cute it is!!!


I KNOW that when you go to her website or her Etsy shop and check out all the different styles and scents, you are going to have a very hard time resisting the urge to get some of your own...I mean for gifts. Oh, who are you kidding, you know you can't order some as gifts without getting at least one for yourself! With the great prices, you can totally afford to hook yourself up too, so why not?

Oh yeah, I mentioned a giveaway, didn't I? By now, I know you're interested in that! Well, I am happy to inform you that you also have a chance to receive the adorable GINGERBREAD GOODIES - Grubby Bakery Soy Candle - Jelly Jar for yourself! I'm excited for you about this!

Here's how to enter...

This contest will be open until 11:59 PM on November 23rd. At that time I will use random.org to determine the winners. The winners will then be emailed and have 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will choose new winners. This contest is open to U.S. residents.

Leave separate comments for each entry and leave your email address in this form - Jane (at) yahoo (dot) com

Mandatory Entry: Visit her website or etsy shop and take a look around. Come back and tell me something other than the product I have mentioned above, that you would love to have or give as a gift. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

Follow my blog (1 entry)

Tell me your favorite of the scents she has listed (1 entry)

Tell me your favorite kind of holiday dessert (1 entry)

Make a purchase from Cinnamon Creek Country Candles (5 entries)


That's 9 chances to win! Good luck!!!





Disclaimer: I received this product for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

Here's hopin'

I am feeling mighty yucky right now (fortunately just seems like a bad cold and not that nasty flu that's going around). Honestly, I wouldn't even complain about it right now, but I have a big weekend coming up and I want to feel good! Not only that, but if my boys are sick, I know I won't be able to stand to leave them. So, what is this big weekend coming up? Well, it's our annual girls' shopping weekend where all of the women 21 and older on my Mom's side of the family leave early Friday morning and don't come home until late Sunday night. We go up to Frankenmuth and Birch Run to the outlets for the whole weekend and we have so much fun. It's just great to have all of us girls get away from the "normal stuff" for an entire weekend. We act goofy, laugh a ton and just really enjoy spending the time together...oh yeah, we Christmas shop too. ;-) So, that's why being sick right now would really be stinky for me or the kids, or Brian! Please say a prayer for us that that doesn't happen and I'm able to head off for this time that I look so forward to with my Mom, sisters, aunts and cousins every year (oh, and my cousin's wife is going with us this year too, so we're very excited about that). Also pray that I will be a good witness for the Lord to all of them while I'm with them. Thank you so much, ladies!

This isn't your regular belt. It's an Invisibelt!

My pants always gape open in the back and it drives me nuts, but I can't stand having the bulkiness of a belt buckle...so what am I supposed to do? Well, I found this company that claims to make a belt that's "all belt no bulk". I decided to test that statement out. Kathy at Invisibelt was awesome and sent me 2 to try out! I have worn one of them twice and one of them once and they did exactly what they claimed to do. I wore them with my jeans and fitted long-sleeve tees and you couldn't even tell I had a belt on! The bulge at the back of my pants was gone and there was no bulk from a buckle in the front. They literally made me look slimmer because they cinched in the waist of my jeans. Who doesn't want to look slimmer? I'm sold. They are my new "must have" accessory.

The original fits sizes 0-14 and the plus size fits up to 4X, so these will work for everyone! They adjust easily (like a bra) and yet do not slip during wear. There are many different styles and colors to choose from. They range in price from $17-$22 and there is even a Girl's Collection that are $16. Since they are the only belt you need, the price is right! They have been featured in several popular magazines and I can see why.

Kathy sent me the Clear Belt from the Original Collection and the Silver Lace from the Glamour Collection. Both belts look great. See for yourself below...



All in all, after testing these belts out for a few days to see how they would perform, I was very happy. My search for the perfect belt is over.

Check out their website and if you've got a teenage girl, I'm thinking this would be an awesome gift idea...and don't forget to get one for yourself!


Disclaimer: I received these products for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.

Blog Award!

I was given this sweet blog award by my beautiful friend, Leanne at Joyful in Hope


Leanne is such a dear friend to me and I am so blessed to have her in my life. She brings me great joy and her love for the Lord and her family are an absolute inspiration to me. My Wednesday morning prayer walks with her are one of my most looked forward to parts of my week and I am so thankful that the Lord brought us to one another. I love you, Leanne!


Now, I am supposed to give this award to 5 other lovely ladies. Here we go...


First is my friend, Kelly at A little bit of this & a little bit of that. Kelly and I met 13 years ago when we both worked at an assisted living center. We hit it off right from the start. Our friendship has had many ups and downs, but we both have developed great relationships with the Lord over the past few years and it has brought the two of us closer. It is so great for us to both look at where we've been and now see where the Lord has brought us and we rejoice in that together.

Second is my friend, Ellisa at not so simple. Ellisa and I met through an online mommy message board for moms in Michigan. We became great friends and had some really fun times together. I haven't seen her in a long time and really miss her, but I'm glad I'm able to keep up with what's going on her life by reading her blog.

Third is my friend, Sherri at SAHMx2. Sherri and I met through Xanga (which I have not been on in well over a year at least). She lives in California, so we've never actually met in person. We have been talking via the computer for well over 4 years now. I read all about her pregnancies and births of both of her children and she got to share in the journey of the pregnancy and birth of my youngest son, Asher. She is a wonderful Christian gal too and I love to read about her faith.

Fourth is Ellie over at Ellie's Stamp Garden. I won a giveaway through her and we began emailing back and forth. She is such a sweetheart and I love seeing her awesome stamping creations.

Fifth is Janet at Loving Heart Designs. I came in contact with her through jumping on board as a guest reviewer for a Holiday Gift Guide and have had the opportunity to email back and forth with her. She is a wonderful Christian woman and very sweet.

Ok girls, grab your award and spread the love!

Living With Confidence In A Chaotic World by Dr. David Jeremiah

What a great book that gives us several Biblical references to God's promises to us and how we can be confident when the world is in chaos. Being in the Word and being constantly reminded of what we have in Him is the most effective tool in being confident when the world around us in shambles. This book points us to the specific places in the Word where we can read about these Truths and calm our hearts.

I found this book to be a great reminder of exactly what we need to remember to keep us from getting caught up in the crises of this world. We are in a time of chaos with our economy and so many people are seeking answers and comfort as to how to cope in these hard times. This book points us to the ONLY place where those answers can be found, the Bible. Not only is this book a reminder for Christians, it would be a wonderful way for non-believers to be introduced to the hope that they can have in Jesus. I highly recommend this book and plan to introduce it to family and friends who I know could use a secure and unfailing hope no matter what any of us have faced, are facing or will face in this world. God is bigger than any of this chaos and we can fully put our confidence in Him.

Great Gift Idea #3 - Unique Christian Gifts from ChristianGiftsPlace.com *With a Giveaway!*

I've discovered a great Christian company with really unique gifts for the home as well as jewelry, children's items, etc. I love to fill my house with little reminders of the Lord so that no matter what is going on in my day, I have constant reminders of His love and presence in my life. Jeana over at ChristianGiftsPlace.com was so kind and she sent me two amazing products to review.

I was thrilled to receive the Framed Adorned Cross-Faith. The cross is covered in little crystals that sparkle and shine from every angle, making it immediately eye-catching. This was proven when my mom walked into my house and the first thing she said was "Oh, this is pretty." and walked right over to it. My favorite feature of this piece though, would have to be the word "Faith" written below the cross. My faith is the most important thing in my life and I believe this is a perfect and beautiful way to show that. I smile every time I look at it hanging on my wall and it matches my warm, neutral tones decor just perfectly.




I was also blessed with a great Cast Iron Cross Trivet. The trivet has little padded feet and a hanger so it can be used as decoration on your wall when not in use. We used it at dinnertime the first night we received it and it made me feel all fancy. Brian even thought it was cool and he's a guy! LOL It's good sized so it fits even my biggest sauce pans and skillets easily. The cross in the center is a good reminder as you sit at your table having your meal, that the Lord is there with you and your family. I just love that.



Both of these products were above and beyond my expectations and are gorgeous additions to my home. I am so thankful for the generous hearts of the people behind this company. There are so many great products that they offer and you would be seriously missing out if you didn't check them out. I truly have never seen so many great and unique Christian home items in one place, not to mention the beautiful jewelry and other items they carry!


Speaking of having generous hearts, they have decided to share the great products they sent me with 2 of my readers! One of you will win the Framed Adorned Cross-Faith and another will win the Cast Iron Cross Trivet! Can you believe it? I'd say those are some seriously great prizes! So, without further ado, here are the ways you can win!

This contest will be open until 11:59 PM on November 16th. At that time I will use random.org to determine the winners. The winners will then be emailed and have 24 hours to respond, otherwise I will choose new winners. This contest is open to U.S. residents.

Leave separate comments for each entry and leave your email address in this form - Jane (at) yahoo (dot) com

Mandatory Entry: Visit ChristianGiftsPlace.com and take a look around. Come back and tell me something other than the products I have mentioned above, that you would love to have or give as a gift. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

Tell me which of the two giveaway items you would like, or both (1 entry)
~First name drawn will receive their choice and second will receive the other item~

Follow my blog (1 entry)

Tell me your favorite Bible verse (1 entry)

Tell me your favorite Christian song (1 entry)


That's 5 chances for you to win! Good luck!


Disclaimer: I received these products for free for review purposes. My opinions expressed in this review were honest and genuine and I was in no way persuaded by the company involved.