End of December 2014 Recap

Life has been pretty blessed lately. God just keeps raining blessings down on me. Yesterday  someone came to my house and brought me 4 brand new tires for my van. I desperately needed 2 new front tires at least so I give God praise for that miracle. Got my Christmas bonus this month naturally. I am 2/3 of the way done paying back the loan for my mini van. I am having so much fun with my Kindle Fire. I love that thing and wish I had gotten one years ago.

I was able to complete 2 of the goals from my 101 list. I got Mandi glasses and I got my Kindle Fire.

I have done 8 reviews this month, I had one giveaway on my blog which is still ongoing btw.  I wrote 16 blog posts. I won 11 giveaways. I had depleted my Amazon money buying Christmas presents (once again Praising God because I was able to get presents and it didn't actually cost me anything) but I have since won 2 more Amazon gc so I am working on rebuilding my account.

Reach it Grab it Reacher Grabber Review

You may or may not be aware that I have a number of health issues. I have fibromyalgia, which I thought was enough to be wrong with a person. But I also have arthritis throughout my body and now it turns out that I also have degenerative disc disease in my spine. I have been down with my back for about 3 months now. I can't stand for more than 10 minutes without being in extreme pain, I can't bend over to get things that I drop or that have fallen because it hurts so much. I was so excited when I was given the opportunity to review the Reach it Grab it Reacher Grabber. My friend and I have often talked about how much we wanted one (she has back, knee and hip problems herself).  Plus I am only 5'3" so I can never reach the stuff my family puts on the top shelves unless I get a chair to stand on. Now with the Reach it Grab it Reacher Grabber I can not only pick up things from the floor, I can reach and get items off the top of shelves. I am going to take this to the grocery store with me. I am always having to stop people that look tall enough and ask them to help me get something from the top shelves. The handle has a trigger that you lightly squeeze to close the grabber. I have carpal tunnel in my hands but it wasn't a problem at all to squeeze the trigger. I won't lie, I have played with the grabber for ages because it is so nice to be able to pick stuff up again without having to wait for someone else to do it for me. You can also use it as an arm extender if you are sitting down to reach things without having to get up.

The secret to eliminating hand, arm, back and knee strain... 
Finding it a struggle to reach, stretch and bend? If simple tasks are no longer so easy 'Reach it Grab it' is the perfect solution. It's firm and accurate grip, allows you to pick almost anything, in fact its so accurate it can pick up a cent! 
The best multi-purpose reacher grabber that gives you the easy way to pick up and clean up! 
• Easy to use, perfect for the old and young 
• Strong grip with and non-slip jaws 
• Reliable smooth mechanism made from high quality precision components 
• Sturdy construction for years of happy grabbing 
• Easy to use ergonomic design
Benefits of 'Reach it Grab it' 
• Improves quality of life for people with back pain including spinal injuries, arthritis, knee, hip and joint pain that would otherwise be too difficult or too painful. 
• Picking up objects dropped/lost in tight spaces can be difficult even when using a normal reaching aid. Our 'Reach it Grab it' has a swivel head, that offers a full 90 degree turning angle, almost anywhere is accessible. 
• High grade aluminium construction means that it won't rust, making it suitable for all outdoors work including removing pond debris and litter picking. 
We know that our grabber will meet your picking requirements. It is also designed to be robust and manufactured from the highest quality materials that will last long into the future. When buying the 'Reach it Grab it' we guarantee you satisfaction.

You can purchase the Reacher Grabber – ‘Reach It Grab It’ Tool on Amazon.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

All-Natural, Advanced Fat Burner - Supreme Forskolin Review + Giveaway

Like most of the people I know, I am always on the lookout for that little extra something to help make weight loss easier. I have spent $100's I know trying this pill or vitamin or that one. This is supposed to help reduce your appetite. I honestly can't say that my appetite was lowered because I didn't notice it but either it was and I was eating less or else it sped up my metabolism because I lost about 8 lbs while taking this. That was really great but even more so considering it was Christmas time and we were  making candy and such and I know I ate way more candy than I should have. I don't know how or why but the only thing different in my routine was that I was taking 2 of these pills a day. 

Product Description

• Supreme Forskolin provides AUTHENTIC 100% Coleus Forskohlii Root Extract - STRONGEST 250mg Per capsule for MAXIMUM STRENGTH and RESULTS. This is why it'll be extremely difficult to find a supplement like Supreme Forskolin.
  
  100% ALL-NATURAL and PROVEN to assist with weight loss as recommended by doctors worldwide. ACCELERATE your weight loss
  
  Zero Adverse Side Effects. No headaches, bloating, shakiness, nausea or cramps. In fact, many users have seen their mood improve (possibly due to minimal blood sugar highs and lows)!
  
  **ZERO RISK** We OFFER a 100% ZERO QUESTIONS ASKED, 60 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. We are so confident you'll lose weight and get real results you deserve that we'll let you try it and if you don't lose weight, we'll give you a 100% zero questions asked, money back guarantee.
  
  WORLD CLASS CUSTOMER SUPPORT ready to help you in any way possible so that you lose weight, feel great and get the FASTEST RESULTS possible using Supreme Forskolin.

Buy it here 

Safety Information
Caution: Do not exceed the recommended dose. Pregnant or Nursing Mothers, Children under the age of 18 and individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before using this or any dietary supplement

Want a chance to try on your own? Enter the giveaway below. The giveaway ends on January 4th 2015 at 11:59 pm EST. You must be in the US. I will email you and you must respond with your mailing information within 48 hours.

Entry-Form

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Will she succumb to the temptations enticing her?

Publication Date: May 16, 2014

Genre: New Adult Sports Romance (18+)

Series: University Park Series, #1

College senior, Lexi Thompson, finds herself in a relationship to be wed to the university’s star baseball pitcher, Collin Norris. Collin’s damn hot, but his lack of spark has Lexi thinking twice before she says ‘I Do’. When she’s forced to tutor bad boy football quarterback, Raven Davenport, she soon discovers all the things she’s missing in her relationship with Collin. Will she succumb to the temptations enticing her, or will Collin be able to convince his sweet, innocent fiancée that his love for her is genuine despite his lack of affection? (This story will be told in three installments.)

Goodreads

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

Publication Date: September 5, 2014

Series: University Park Series, #2

The engagement's off and with Collin behind her, Lexi has decided that the temptations of Raven Davenport are too strong to be ignored. It doesn’t take long for Lexi and Raven to find themselves wrapped in each other’s affection, but not without the challenges that life poses. But can she withstand the world he’s created or will the forces that are against them rip them apart? Love, faith, betrayal, and heartache ripple through their lives as they fight to be on the same side.

Goodreads

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

Publication Date: December 21, 2014

Series: University Park Series, #3

Lexi’s determined to keep her word and stand by Raven’s side because her love for him is too strong to deny.  As Raven learns to deal with the issues that are destined to destroy him and their relationship, their love is taken to a new level. As doors are closed and new ones are opened, Lexi and Raven find themselves in a heavenly bliss, but not without the challenges from Raven’s past. With a true test of love, Lexi and Raven have to decide if they are willing to do whatever it takes to be on the winning side.

Goodreads

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

CM Doporto lives in the great state of Texas with her husband and son enjoying life with their extensive family along with their Chihuahua, Mexican Redhead Parrot, and several fish. She writes Young Adult and New Adult stories about ordinary women who do extraordinary things, become a heroine, and find love along the way.

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Christmas Gift Suggestions

I read this quote and just loved it, so naturally I wanted to share with everyone. Just in case you are still looking for gifts for someone, here are a few ideas.

image courtesy of Spiritually Thinking

I tried to find out more about Oren Arnold but really only found a whole lot of pages with this quote and a couple of others. He was an author is the one thing I did find out.

Grandbabies and Santa

I thought I would manage before the holiday season was completely over to post the pictures of the grandbabies with Santa this year.

This is Avril, She is 7

This is Frankie and he is almost 6

This is Peyton and she is 2.

This is Brystol and she is 14 months. 

Review: When Mercy Rains by Kim Vogel Sawyer

About This Book

She left, heavily weighted with secrets.
But God reveals all things, in His timing.
And He redeems them.
Suzanne Zimmerman was only seventeen and pregnant when her shamed mother quietly sent her away from their Old Order Mennonite community in Kansas. With her old home, family, and first love firmly behind her, Suzanne moved to Indiana, became a nurse, and raised a daughter, Alexa, on her own.

Now, nearly twenty years later, an unexpected letter arrives from Kansas. Her brother asks her to bring her nursing abilities home and care for their ailing mother. His request requires that Suzanne face a family that may not have forgiven her and a strict faith community. It also means seeing Paul Aldrich, her first love.  

Paul, widowed with an eight-year-old son, is relieved to see Suzanne again, giving him the chance to beg her forgiveness for his past indiscretion. But when he meets Alexa, his guilt flickers in the glare of Suzanne’s prolonged secret—one that changes everything.

Suzanne had let go of any expectation for forgiveness long ago. Does she dare hope in mercy–and how will her uncovered past affect the people she loves the most?

Excerpt
Prologue
Suzanne
Spring 1994

The hiss of approaching tires on wet pavement broke the tense silence between the mother and daughter seated on the bus-stop bench. Suzy flicked a look at Mother and dared a timorous comment. “Here it comes.” Now that her leave-taking was upon her, would her mother’s disapproving demeanor soften?

The lines of Mother’s mouth remained etched in a stern line, the furrows between her brows forming a V so deep it might never depart. Suzy hunched into her wool coat—a coat far too cloying for the damp May dawn but also too bulky to fit in her small cardboard suitcase. She’d be gone well into the winter months, and Mother insisted she’d need it so she should wear it. And she always did what her mother said.

Well, almost always. Who knew one foolish mistake could hold such farreaching consequences? I’m so sorry, God.

The bus groaned to a stop at the curb, and Mother curled her hand around Suzy’s elbow, forcing her to rise. Although Mother’s grip was hard, impersonal, Suzy welcomed it. Her ordinarily demonstrative mother hadn’t touched her even once in the past two weeks, as if fearful Suzy’s stains would rub off. So she pressed her elbow against her rib cage, needing to feel the pressure of Mother’s work-roughened fingers against her flesh. But the coat proved too thick a barrier. Suzy blinked rapidly.

“Get your case.”

The moment Suzy caught the handle of the old suitcase, Mother propelled her through the gray drizzle toward the bus. The slap of the soles of their matching black oxfords sent up dirty droplets from the rain-soaked sidewalk, peppering their tan hosiery. The dark spots reminded Suzy of the dark blotch now and forever on her soul. She pushed the thought aside and looked into the opening created by the unfolding of the bus door.

The driver glanced from Mother to Suzy, seeming to focus on their white mesh caps and dangling ribbons—Mother’s black, Suzy’s white. Accustomed to curious looks from those outside her Mennonite faith, Suzy didn’t wince beneath the man’s puzzled scowl, but she battled the desire to melt into the damp concrete when Mother spoke in a strident tone.

“I am Abigail Zimmerman, and this is my daughter. She is traveling oneway to Indianapolis.”

One-way… Suzy swallowed hard.

Mother gave her elbow a little shake. “Show him the ticket, Suzanne.”

Suzanne. Not Suzy as she’d been tenderly called her entire life. She gulped again and drew the rumpled ticket from her pocket.

The driver eased himself from the seat and plucked the rectangle of paper from Suzy’s icy fingers. He stared at it for a moment and then bobbed his head and waved a hand in invitation. “Come on aboard. Long drive ahead of you.”

Suzy gritted her teeth to hold back a cry of agony. He didn’t realize how long. She turned to Mother, silently praying the mother who had dried her tears and bandaged her childhood scuffs would reappear, would read the fear in her eyes and offer a hug. A kind word. A hint of forgiveness.

Mother leaned close, and Suzy’s heart leaped with hope. “The people at the…in Indianapolis know what to do. You do what they say.” Mother’s harsh whisper raised a slight cloud of condensation around her face, softening the fierce furrows of anger etched at her eyes and mouth

“I will.” Questions Suzy had fearfully held inside pressed for release. What had Mother and Dad told Clete, Shelley, and little Sandra? Did the fellowship know she was leaving? Would she be allowed to call home?

“Afterward you can come to Arborville again. It will be as though this never happened.” Mother took a step back, shoving her balled fists into the pockets of her lightweight trench coat.

Tears flooded Suzy’s eyes, distorting her vision. The suitcase encumbered one arm, but she lifted the other, her fingers reaching fleetingly toward her mother. “Mother, I—”

“At least you will be able to bless your cousin Andrew and his wife. God will redeem your sin. Now go, Suzanne.” Mother jerked her chin toward the rumbling bus. “Go and put this unpleasantness behind us.”

Behind us… Suzy’s shame had spilled over and tainted her entire family. She bowed her head, the weight of her burden too much to bear.

“I will see you afterward.”

Mother’s words sealed Suzy’s fate. With a heavy heart, she climbed the stairs, the unwieldy suitcase and her trembling limbs making her clumsy. She trudged down the narrow, dim aisle past snoozing passengers to the very last bench and slid in. Hugging the suitcase to her aching chest—to her womb, which bore the evidence of her shame—she hung her head and toyed with the plastic handle of the suitcase rather than clearing a spot on the steam-clouded window to see if Mother might wave good-bye.

The bus lurched forward, jolting Suzy in the seat. She closed her eyes tight as a wave of nausea rolled over her. Her thoughts screamed, Wait! Let me off! She didn’t want to go so far away. She needed her mother. She would miss her father and sisters and brother.

And Paul.

Her mother’s final comment echoed in her mind. “I will see you afterward.” After Suzy delivered this child and handed it to others to raise. The ache in her chest heightened until she could barely draw a breath. She leaned her forehead against the cool glass and allowed the long-held tears to slip quietly down her cheeks. She would leave her home in Kansas, and she would count the days until she could put this nightmare behind her and go back to being Mother and Dad’s Suzy again.

Excerpted from When Mercy Rains by Kim Vogel Sawyer Copyright © 2014 by Kim Vogel Sawyer. Excerpted by permission of WaterBrook Press, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher. -

SNEAK PEEK: When Mercy Rains by Kim Vogel Sawyer

She left, heavily weighted with secrets.
But God reveals all things, in His timing. 
And He redeems them.

Click here to download chapter one of When Mercy Rains.

Suzanne Zimmerman was only seventeen and pregnant when her shamed mother quietly sent her away from their Old Order Mennonite community in Kansas. With her old home, family, and first love firmly behind her, Suzanne moved to Indiana, became a nurse, and raised a daughter, Alexa, on her own.

Click here to download chapter one of When Mercy Rains.

Kim Vogel Sawyer

Kim Vogel Sawyer is a best-selling author highly acclaimed for her gentle stories of hope. More than one million copies of her books are currently in print and have garnered awards including the ACFW Carol Award, the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, and the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence. Kim lives in central Kansas, with husband Don and their four feline companions. She enjoys spending time with her three daughters and ten grandchildren.

I have got to say I loved this book. The characters were believable as being real humans who made mistakes and had done things to miss up their lives yet all of them were forgiven and redeemed by God. Some of them made choices I woulnd't have but who hasn't made mistakes they regret. At first I did not like the grandmother at all but  I grew to understand and like her better. I really liked that the characters were Mennonites. I have read a lot of Amish books but this is the first one I have read on Mennonites. I used to work with a Mennonite woman years ago but had no real experience with the religion. I enjoyed what I learned about them from this book.  I want to learn more about Mennonites now.  I read this whole book in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. I just kept wanting to see how things went. (next morning I was sorry I had stayed up so late) There is such a surprise twist to the plot that I completely did not see coming ( I won't tell you what it was) but I loved it. I am so glad there is a sequel because there were a few things that didn't happen but I want to know how they turn out so I will order the sequel to find out what happens to everyone.

Disclosure: I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review in exchange for sharing my honest opinion.  My opinions are always my own!.

Baby Orajel™ Naturals Nighttime Teething Gel Review

With the soothing power of Chamomilla (commonly known as Chamomile) and passion flower, Baby Orajel™ Naturals Nighttime Teething Gel helps to relieve teething pain discomfort and calm the restlessness that comes from teething, so your child can get a good night’s sleep.
• Homeopathic Formula
• Benzocaine-free
• Belladonna-free
• Paraben-free
#1 Pharmacist recommended homeopathic brand for teething pain relief.
Click here for more information about Baby Orajel™
Click here to receive a digital coupon for $1.00 off

My youngest grandchild is 14 months and she is still getting teeth in. I hate when she is teething because her little gums hurt so much. I was thrilled to be given the opportunity of a  #freesample of #BabyOrajelNaturals. I have used regular baby orajel but lets face it, there is a taste to it that the babies never liked. I tried this one on myself to see what the taste was like. I was very pleasantly surprised to find there wasn't a much of a taste at all that I could tell and it was nice and thick so it didn't run off as soon as I put it on my finger. I felt this was a safer choice sing it is benzocaine free. So when Brystol started crying and drooling I knew it was the chance to use it on her. I put a bit on her gums where they were swollen. In just a few minutes she had quieted down and in no time it seemed she was back to her smiling self.  So we all bundled up and were able to go to the park as we had planned. You can tell from that beautiful smile that Brystol is having a great time and is pain free.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Smiley 360 Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Purex® PowerShot™ Coming Soon sweepstakes

Share & enter the sweepstakes & get a $1 off coupon.

Three grand prize winners of a Whirlpool washer & dryer set. 300 second-place winners will receive a bottle of PowerShot.

Purex® PowerShot™ detergent will be in stores soon! Watch the video to see how it does the measuring for you!

Watch the video HERE!

I always tell my friends, you can't win if you don't enter. I was  a grand prize winner for a Purex sweepstakes in the early part of this year.

Children’s Dimetapp® Cold & Cough

This is a picture of my oldest granddaughter Avril showing off her pink cowgirl hat and the #freesample of #ChildrensDimetapp I got. Thankfully I got this sample just in time for all the coughs that seem to make the rounds in November and December at the schools.

Children’s Dimetapp® Cold & Cough tackles your child’s most bothersome cold symptoms, including cough, nasal congestion and runny nose. And, it comes in a great, grape flavor that kids love.

Relieve your child’s cold symptoms so they can get back to being kids. Dimetapp® Cold & Cough is available in 4 and 8 oz. sizes. It is also available in a Day & Night Value Pack, which includes a special nighttime formula, Dimetapp® Nighttime Cold & Congestion, made to relieve your child’s cold symptoms so they can rest better.

Children’s Dimetapp® Cold & Cough provides relief from these symptoms:
- Cough
- Stuffy Nose
- Runny Nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy, Watery Eyes

Important: Read all product information before using.

Do not use in children under age 6.

For more product information, click here

Click here to receive a $1.00 off coupon

Click here for complete drug facts, uses, warnings, dosing chart and active ingredients

Here is Avril again saying that the taste wasn't the horrible after taste she was expecting. I liked the Dimetapp Cold and Cough to start with because I trust the Dimetapp name. The taste wasn't awful but it wasn't like candy either. It was faintly reminiscent of grape soda. It helped with my granddaughter's coughing during her most recent cold. I would recommend this medicine to any of my friends with children.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Smiley 360 Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Kung Fu Panda Holiday

Since I got my Kindle Fire, I have been playing with Amazon App's of the day. Today's app is Kung Fu Panda Holiday and its just adorable.
Young Po the Panda is very excited when Master Shifu chooses him to be the host of the Winter Feast--until he finds out that he can't bring his father along. What should Po do? Kids are sure to be entertained by the beautiful imagery and funny story of "Kung Fu Panda Holiday," an iStoryTime e-book based on the movie of the same name.

Falling Snowmen

I am sure you noticed the adorable falling snowmen on my blog. I saw something similar on another blog and thought it was so cute. I googled and found this site  There are 10 different falling items if you want to check it out.

SariFoods Nutritional Yeast Review

I have heard of nutritional yeast over and over but haven't ever tried it. It is supposed to be really good for additional vitamins and minerals and I wanted to check it out so was thrilled to get the chance to try it free.  I liked that it had just over 6% of your daily dose of iron. I am always severely anemic and have to take iron supplements. I much prefer to get my iron from foods that I eat and Sari Food's nutritional yeast makes it easy to add to a lot of my favorite foods, thus helping increase my iron levels naturally. Over the years, I have mostly heard of people using on popcorn and talking about how it added such a cheesy flavor. They didn't lie :). I tried it on my popcorn and it was awesome. 

Product Description

Nutritional yeast is a delicious salty, creamy, nutty, cheese-tasting superfood can be sprinkled on just about everything! It's naturally very low in sodium and fat and is dairy and gluten free!

Hint: Great on vegetables, tacos, pasta, popcorn, soup, baked potatoes, dips, salads. 

Why choose Natural, Non-Fortified Nutritional Yeast? 

Most nutritional yeast products are fortified with excessive amounts of synthetic vitamins to increase the nutritional count. We believe that synthetic, man-made vitamins are not only unnecessary, but that they can be harmful and toxic to our bodies, causing nutrient imbalances and forcing our kidneys and liver to work overtime while our bodies struggle to absorb them.

We can promise you this: the abundance of vitamins & nutrients plus the delicious cheese flavor found in this bag of molasses-grown nutritional yeast are 100% whole food based and naturally occurring - nothing synthetic here - just as nature intended! 

Our nutritional yeast is comprised of 50% protein (a complete, bioavailable and vegan source), over 20% fiber, contains all 18 amino acids and 15 different minerals (including iron, selenium and zinc) as well as a natural vitamin B-complex and Beta-glucans (known for their extreme immune enhancing properties).

Here are a few of the benefits of adding Nutritional Yeast to your diet:

OPTIMIZE YOUR HEALTH WITH SUPER NUTRIENTS. Our Nutritional Yeast is naturally comprised of 50% protein (a complete, bioavailable and vegan source), over 20% fiber, contains all 18 amino acids and 15 different minerals (including iron, selenium and zinc) as well as a natural vitamin B-complex and Beta-glucans (known for their extreme immune enhancing properties plus their ability to lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and some cancers).

LOSE WEIGHT NATURALLY. Enjoy guilt-free deliciousness with this salty, creamy, nutty, cheese-tasting superfood that can be sprinkled on just about everything and is bound to become your secret weapon in weight loss! In addition to being extremely low in calories, fat and sodium, it is dairy free, gluten free, MSG free and chocked full of vitamins, minerals, fiber and protein. Thank you mother nature! ***For cooking inspiration, you will receive a free Nutritional Yeast Recipe Ebook (50+ yummy recipes) — emailed to you after purchase.***

FIGHT AGING & FREE RADICALS. With highly absorbable amounts of nucleotides (the building blocks of DNA & RNA), Nutritional Yeast promotes cellular repair and regeneration. Then, by combining the two antioxidants glutathione and selenium, our Nutritional Yeast Flakes create a special enzyme called glutathione peroxidase that is known to neutralize free radicals and protect us from their damage.

END YOUR ENERGY CRISIS. 15-40% of Americans are deficient in B vitamins which can lead to deep and ongoing fatigue, brain fog, irritability, depression, and even insomnia (as they play a crucial role in melatonin production). The body depends on B6 to make the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine, which affect both mood and feelings of happiness. Improved Vitamin B intake helps us sleep well and helps balance our hormones. increase our energy levels, clarity & overall mental function.

Looking for some ways to use nutritional yeast?

• sprinkled on popcorn
• stirred into mashed potatoes
• sprinkled on pasta (I used it just like I would parmesan)
• add it to any baked casserole that you want a cheesy flavor in. 
• sprinkled on vegetables ( I love it sprinkled on steamed broccoli or baked potatoes 

All in all, I am glad I got to try this product thanks to Tomoson and Sari Foods. I discovered I love nutritional yeast. This is amazing for a low carb diet. I can add this in and its only got around 2 net carbs per serving (which is 2 tbsp). And there are only 61.6 calories per serving which is a bargain for the cheese flavor you get from it. 

Buy it here 

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Spencer James "Don't Shake a Baby" Review

Spencer James "Don't Shake A Baby" is Martin and Lewis, with a little dash of Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. mixed in. James blends both music and dance into his stand-up for a show that's both anti "jobs" and yet pro "fat kids."

Spencer James's comedy career started very early on. At eleven years old, he was the fat kid always getting picked on by school bullies and being ignored by every girl around. An army brat who moved frequently throughout the US as well as internationally, he used stand-up to provide comic relief. 

James has entertained audiences all over the country. He was the Winner of the 2014 World Series of Comedy in Las Vegas, Nevada and  "Best of the Fest" at the 2014 Burbank Comedy Festival. He was also recently seen on the Fox television show "Laughs".

A sort of "personal reveal", his comedy reflects a variety of influences - Bill Cosby's storytelling; Mitch Hedberg's one liners; Richard Pryor's vulnerability. He admires Bill Hicks, Bill Burr and Christopher Titus for the openness they all share. His comedy gives us his unique perspective on those things in life that he finds funny or weird - stuff like guys in wheelchairs buying ladders at Home Depot.

He discusses his warped reactions to first time relationships. No longer the "fat kid", he continues to feel its influence on his life and uses it to fuel his comedy.

Currently residing in Denver, CO, where beautiful women abound, he still finds it difficult to relate to them and this provides an endless stream of comic opportunities.

Pre-order: http://bit.ly/1u4e5yc

Website:  http://www.thatguywiththetie.com/

Art and Photos: http://bit.ly/1zeGi6I

I liked the bit about babies vs Ferraris best of all. Some of the parts were a bit too graphic for me but overall I thought Spencer was pretty funny. I was definitely reminded of the old Dean Martin shows I watched growing up. I use to watch all those roast shows. I think you should check out Spencer James for yourself, you might just find a new favorite.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Kindle Books I loved

I finally got my Kindle Fire and I have been reading up a storm all those ebooks, I have been downloading for the past couple years. I read at least 2 books a day. I love the freedom to have tons of books with me when I go anywhere. Whoever thought of ereaders was a genius. I thought I would share the 2 best ebooks I have read so far.

Armed and Outrageous was naturally a free ebook I had gotten over a year ago but it is still free as of today Dec 5th 2014 on Amazon. I laughed and laughed at this one. The main character reminds me of the grandmother from the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich so if you like those than I think you would like this. At times I felt it was  bit too graphic to me but by ignoring those parts, I was able to enjoy the rest of the book. My daughter came to my bedroom to see what I was laughing so much about. If I can't find the rest of the series from my library's online books than I will buy the rest because I enjoyed it that much.

Journey to the Well- I have no idea where I got this one because it doesn't show on my Amazon account but it was on my Kindle. It is 8.99 today on Amazon but worth it. It is a fictional work about the woman at the well and the life she may have lived. I loved this book. I enjoy historical fiction and I really enjoy when I am able to picture what sort of life someone from the Bible may have lived. 

End of November Recap

November was  better month for me than October was. Thankfully I was able to get a new to me vehicle. It is the mini van pictured above. It was God provision for sure. I was able to get the mini van for 1/4th the book value of it. Thanks to God, my best friend, her aunt, my supervisor, my boss and my dad who all had some part in my being able to get the van. I really love owning a mini van. I have never had so much hauling room. There is enough room for me to take all 4 grandbabies at one time.
I also bought myself a Kindle Fire. I have entered and entered giveaways and just never won so finally I decided to use some of the Amazon money I had won and bought one used. I am a bit disappointed though because I ordered it on the 23rd and according to the tracking it still hasn't shipped yet :(. I am so excited about owning one. I have wanted one for ages.
I think I have made a bit of personal growth too. Every year on Facebook, all my friends do a daily post of what they are thankful for every day in November. I have never participated and it actually hurt me to read all that gratitude because November is such a painful month for me. My baby brother Chad's birthday was November 29th and ever since he was born, the month of November has been about anticipation of his birthday. After he was killed, I hated November. I just dreaded yet another birthday and him being gone. I still miss him every day and wish God hadn't allowed this to happen but I have reached a point where I think next year I will be able to participate in a daily thanks during November.

I had a total of 12 posts for the month. I only did 4 reviews this month, I had no giveaways on my blog, I don't think I even won any for the month either. But I am back to entering giveaways and hope to do better in December.

Review: Awakening by Stovall Weems

Stop hitting the spiritual snooze button.

Would you describe your walk with God as fresh and exciting?  Would you describe your spiritual life as vibrant and passionate?  If not, would you like these attributes to be the norm in your everyday relationship with God?

Are you ready to experience an awakening?

Awakening helps you stir up your slumbering soul.  You’ll discover how to break out of your season of dryness or get off to a great start either in the New Year or the next season in life. Take your faith-walk from a “going through the motions” or “have to” mindset to the stimulating, fresh “want to” experience of enjoying God’s presence—24/7.

Weems encourages you to surrender fully, to discover the right kind of fuel for the journey, and to learn a new way to pray and fast. This lifestyle is not based on rules or religion, but on a deep, satisfying, motivating relationship with God.

Included in Awakening is a 21-Day Plan that will guide you through the principles that ensure a lasting, fresh relationship with God—even in a world where everything quickly becomes stale. 

“It’s time to wake up and put an end to spiritual sluggishness! I promise this year will be the best of your life if it is your best year spiritually.” – Stovall Weems


I was given a copy of this book to review by Blogging for Books.I think that fasting is something that has fallen out of favor with today's church. When I first got saved 26 years ago, I can remember the churches having fasts when it was time for revival or just when a need to get closer to the Lord was felt. I honestly can't think of a time in the past 6 years when I have heard of any pastor of any church I have attended has mentioned fasting. I think this is why we are lacking power in our churches, our lives and our testimonies today.  Jesus mentioned fasting as a way to be more powerful when His disciples asked why they hadn't been able to cast out a demon. I think we need to start practicing more self sacrifice in order to see growth.

I liked this book and how it helped put fasting and the need to fast into practical terms for today. I think if we started following the 21 day fast recommended in this book that we will grow closer to God and become more powerful, spiritually.  I recommend this book for everyone who calls them self a Christian. The plan is well laid out and easy to follow. I would love to see my church put this into practice as a whole when we are approaching a revival season.

Fun ideas for Christmas with Children

I thought I would share some of the cute ideas I have seen online this year.

Kids Activities Blog- here is a cute idea for kids Christmas. Its printable letter to Santa for them to color in and write their letters on. 

Coffee Cups and Crayons - a random acts of kindness Advent calendar for children 

Nest of Posies - make hand print ornaments. I am making these this year with all my grandbabies.

Cupcake Diaries- show you how to make grinch drinks. These would be awesome when the family is watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

Nourishing Minimalism- Grinch Kabobs to go with your grinch drinks.

36th Avenue- Christmas Scriptures for Every day

Ricola® Revitalizing Herb Drops

For over 80 years, Ricola has been one of the most modern and innovative manufacturers of herb drops in the world. All herbs used in their products are organically cultivated in the Swiss mountains. Ricola®’s selection of products includes about 50 different herb specialty flavors and now they're looking at their Chrüterchrafters to get to try their newest creation, Ricola® Revitalizing Herb Drops!

Naturally Effective®

• With B Vitamins
• Helps Restore Energy*
• Effervescent Center

Ricola® Lemon Zest Revitalizing Drops provide B vitamins, in combination with a mixture of Swiss alpine herbs and ginseng, in a natural and refreshing way. 

Two drops provide 20% of the Adult Daily Value of Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12.

Product of Switzerland

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Well winter has hit the US with a huge blast of snow and cold air. Cold and flu season are upon us. Naturally I already have a cold. I am trying to keep it just as a cold so using all means available. Thankfully, I got a free bag of Ricola Reviatlizing Herb Drops from #swissherbs and #crowdtappers to try out. Some of you may recall that last winter I got sick the first week of November and was sick until May. I can't tell you how many drs I saw or drugs they gave me. 

I loved the lemony zip of these. If you don't like lemon meringue pie than you won't like these but who doesn't love lemon pie? When you get to the center there is a suprise powder inside.  The fizzing reminds me a candy I use to eat as a child. I like that these taste so good because I have had some throat drops that burned my mouth or tasted so nasty that the cold was preferable. I have a cold and I really can tell that I am not as tired feeling as I usually am with a cold. They really helped my sore throat a lot. It was hard to share them as they taste so good but I was nice and shared with a few friends :). I loved these and will buy them to have on hand for sore throats and colds. 

and if you want to try to win a bag, Ricola is having a little contest on their page. 

Disclosure: I received FREE Ricola® Revitalizing Herb Drops Samples courtesy from Ricola and Crowdtap in exchange for sharing my honest opinion.  My opinions are always my own! . Thank you! #Crowdtap and #Swissherbs