Saturday, December 21, 2013

3 Days Until Christmas....

I can't believe we only have 3 days until Christmas. It just doesn't seem like Christmas here this year, as the weather is too warm and rainy. The kids are out of school for the next few weeks, which is actually sorta' nice. We have A LOT to do here at my house....

Friday, December 13, 2013

Clothed in Thunder -- Book Review

 Clothed in Thunder by Vicki Watson is the third book in her Sonrise Stable series. It's a wonderful Christian series of books about the lives of Rosie and Carrie and their love of horses. These chapter books are great for both boys and girls ages 6-8, and one thing that makes them a little different from other books is the girls are homeschooled. I can't think of another series of books that have homeschooled children as their main characters.


 
 
 
 
 

From the back of the book: After sitting through a 4-H demonstration on the evolution of the horse, Rosie and Carrie are determined to present the arguments for creation at the club’s next meeting. The demonstration proves harder to put together than they imagined as everyone offers the girls their opinions. The lessons Rosie learns about creation extend into her life in surprising ways as she faces her old adversary, Billy King, who cheated her out of her first trophy with her pony, Scamper.



Even though the main focus of the book is on creation and how God created the horse, an important subplot is forgiveness. Billy King, Rosie's adversary from book one, comes to work on the farm. With more background information, readers now see Billy in a different light, and Rosie has to look at her feelings and see if she can forgive him for past mistakes. It looks like Billy may become a reoccurring character as the Sonrise Series continues. I hope so, as I've come to understand and like him. I can see Billy becoming someone Rosie and Carrie start looking up to and asking for help later on.



http://www.sonrisestable.com/ is Vicki Watson's website. Take a look around to find more information on her Sonrise Stable Series and also for more information about horses. Her love of horses really shows through this series.





I was given a free copy of Clothed in Thunder to review as part of the review crew of Christian Women's Affliliate (CWA). The views and opinions are all my own, and  I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Review: LUSTER NOW! Instant Whitening Toothpaste

Through BzzAgent, I was given a chance to try LUSTER NOW! Instant Whitening Toothpaste. I was also given samples to pass out to friends and family. Everyone I talked to said the same thing about their first reaction to the toothpaste.....it's BLUE!

According to the LUSTER NOW! description: Luster NOW! is infused with Bluverite®, a unique formula that makes teeth appear instantly whiter with just one brushing, with results that last for hours. Luster NOW! is enamel safe, ideal for daily use, and provides intense stain removal with regular use. For an instantly brighter smile for every day or a night on the town, use Luster NOW!. Luster NOW! is conveniently packaged in three portable tubes, so you can keep one by the sink, in your purse or at your desk to ensure you have a bright, white smile wherever you go. It's perfect before a night out on the town, a first date or a party. In a time where everyone is used to instant gratification, Luster NOW! provides the fast fix for a white smile that lasts for hours. Directions for use: Brush teeth thoroughly with Luster NOW! following meals or twice daily. If excessive blue appears on teeth or gums, simply swish with water to reveal your whiter smile.

Honestly, I really couldn't see that much of a difference in my teeth, even after a week or so. I asked my kids, and they couldn't really see a difference either. They *may* be a shade whiter but it's not THAT much whiter.

The toothpaste itself tastes like a mint toothpaste and foams up very well. It feels like there may be some peroxide in it. The only thing that really throws me is the LUSTER NOW! toothpaste is very, very BLUE. I have a hard time with that...nothing should be that blue. I have to say that my teeth do feel very clean after I brush with the LUSTER NOW!

The cost of the LUSTER NOW! is what concerns me. I don't know if  I would spend the $14 for the toothpaste. That's the cost I found on Amazon for the 3  1.5 oz tubes. The 4 oz tube I saw for as cheap as $8, which is still more than I usually pay for toothpaste.


Monday, October 14, 2013

The German Students are Here!!!

It's been a busy week, as the 18 German students and 2 teachers flew in to Atlanta just over a week ago. We've been taking them around Georgia and letting them see the sights. The first place we took Stella and Karina was to Waffle House for lunch.
 
Then it was over to play paintball with a group of the students. I think the 11 of them had a great time. I know it was a lot of fun for me to watch, though I would have loved to have played also.
Stella and Angela

The whole Crew
 

 

I've been trying to post photos on facebook for the kids, but it's slow going with my computer. I'll try to get more photos and activities up here also. I want everyone to see what we are doing. Boy, I didn't realize just how short my daughter was until I looked at the group shot.
 

Monday, October 7, 2013

Book Review -- Shadow Stalker by Barbara Ann Derksen

Shadow Stalker by Barbara Ann Derksen is the first in her Finder's Keepers Mystery Series. I had previously read another series by Derksen and enjoyed it very much. I had high hopes for this book and it did not disappoint.

 From the back of the book: An ominous shadow hangs over her, as Christine Finder, alias Melissa Rompart, visits the brutal slaying of her parents most nights in a dream. The threat of discovery propels her to search for the whereabouts of the killer to see the man brought to justice. In the meantime, the killer stalks her mind while she operates Finder’s Keepers, an agency that searches for the people her clients hire her to find. Nathan Brent is only four years old and missing. Will she find him in time or will the killer find her first?



When I first read the book, it had a few technical glitches (no fault of the author, printing issue). These have since been corrected in the hard copy version, and I did received a new, corrected copy of the book. I will also mention that Barbara Ann Derksen is a Christian writer, so expect there to be Christian elements throughout the story, especially with the character of Jeremy.  She is not preachy though. There is also nothing objectionable in the book, so I happily gave it to my teenager to read.

Shadow Stalker hooks the reader right from the prologue, and I will admit that I stayed up way too late reading the book. I just HAD to know what happened next. I really want to write more about the story and plot, but I don't want to give away any spoilers by accident. Admittedly, I'm looking forward to the next book just so I can see where the relationship between Jeremy and Christine goes....and to get involved in the next mystery. The next book in the series is scheduled to come out in May 2014.


As a member of the Christian Women's Affiliate (CWA), I was given a copy of Shadow Stalker to read and review. The views and opinions are all my own, and  I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.

Monday, August 19, 2013

Crowdtap Mortal Instruments -- Let's Have a Party!

I was given the opportunity to host a Mortal Instruments party through Crowdtap. It really didn't turn out as planned and was probably the worst book party I've thrown. Besides me and my daughter, no one else really seems that excited to see the Mortal Instruments movie.

I do want to show what we did to Angela's hair though. She wants it to be like Clary's red, so we picked up 2 boxes of the new Splat Crimson Obsession. Unfortunately, only one of them had the special code in it, though both boxes should have...hence, no free movie ticket I guess.

This is before.....(finally found a decent one of her hair and the normal color)

 This is the during. Angela was hoping the color would turn out about this dark. Remember, this is 2 boxes. We also left it on a little longer than it said on the box.
This is the color it turned out afterwards. It's much lighter and brighter red than she thought. It's nothing like the color it was suppose to be.

 Christopher is busy reading the 4th book......

 He has no interest in anything but the food and the book.....
 Angela is only on the second book....and see her nice pretty red hair now.
I'll try to get some other photos up also, but as I said....this party wasn't all it was cracked up to be. I think the teens are just in school mode now that we've been in almost 3 weeks.
 
I am hoping to take Angela to the movie on Friday or Saturday....

Monday, July 29, 2013

Will be Writing More Soon....

Well, as soon as Pher was out of the hospital, it was about time for me and Angela to head off to Myrtle Beach for Starpower Dance Nationals. That meant a week without internet for me. Wow, do email messages back up!
Angela and I camped at Myrtle Beach State Park for the week, and that was an experience! It was so much cheaper than a hotel. What we spent for the week at Myrtle Beach SP, was what most of our dance families spent for one night at a hotel. Camping does come with it's share of challenges, especially when you're a mom and teenage daughter camping alone. We survived the week though.
 
I'll hopefully have more time this week to blog and post some photos. Angela does start school next week, so we're getting all that pre- stuff done. She gets her schedule tomorrow....and it's so hard for me to think of her as a junior in high school. Where did the time go?

Monday, July 8, 2013

Sorry....

Sorry I've been such a terrible blogger lately. I do have an excuse though, as my teenage son has been sick. Not just sick, but in the hospital, needs surgery sick. I have a book review I need to get up, so hopefully soon....

Saturday, June 15, 2013

Sorry....

I'm sorry. I've been a terrible blogger lately. So much is going on around here, with my daughter getting her cast off....and my son having all kinds of medical issues. Pher had an MRI on Friday, so hopefully we'll find out something. It really looks like he's going to have surgery, but we need to know what kind of surgeon he needs....general or orthopedic.

Dance recital was just over a week ago.....it's too bad Angela couldn't dance. She has about 2 more weeks before she's back to dancing. Physical therapy starts Monday...but so does dance camp, which she'll miss. I know she'd rather be at dance camp.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Review: Soft Scrub 4-in-1 Toilet Care

As a member of the Purex Insiders, I was given the opportunity to try the Soft Scrub 4-in-1 Toilet Care. The views are all my own, though I was given the product to try and review.

From the Website:

What makes Soft Scrub® 4-in-1 Toilet Care different? Unlike other toilet bowl rim hangers that don't stay in place or that dissolve too quickly, NEW Soft Scrub® 4-in-1 Toilet Care provides long lasting cleaning and freshening thanks to its unique design and advanced formula.



 
Soft Scrub 4-in-1 Toilet Care Alpine Fresh
Soft Scrub® 4-in-1 Toilet Care is the only rim hanger that:
  • Cleans
  • Prevents Future Buildup
  • Fights Toilet Ring
  • Freshens up to 4 Weeks


Soft Scrub 4-in-1 Toilet Care Alpine Fresh
Ingredient Statement for Soft Scrub 4-in-1 Alpine Fresh (with Bleach)
Sodium Sulfate, Sodium Alkylbenzene Sulfonate, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate, Fragrance, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamide MEA, Water, Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Chloride, Mineral Oil, Dipropylene Glycol, Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Pigment Green 7 (CI 74260)

I found the Soft Scrub® 4-in-1 Toilet Care very interesting with the 4 balls in the two different colors. My teenage son was the one that installed it on our downstairs toilet, and so far it seems to work well. The bowl is clean and doesn't have a ring so far. It's odd because of where it's placed on our toilet, right in front. Everytime I open the lid of the toilet it startles me, but it's noticable. Everyone that has used our toilet comments on it, because it's the first thing you see when you lift the lid. I would definitely buy this product again.

 
Purex Contest:
One lucky winner will receive $1,000, while 250 second place winners get to try NEW Soft Scrub® 4-in-1 Toilet care for FREE!
http://insiders.purex.com/brighterbowl/?id=18098

 

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Review: Cottonelle Toliet Tissue and Flushable Wipes

As a member of Crowdtap, I was given the opportunity to try Cottonelle Toliet Tissue and also the Flushable Wipes. Both items are part of Cottonelle's Clean Care Campaign. I'm sure you've seen at least one of the Test Your Cleaning Logic commercials. Most of them are quite funny.

I was also given Cotonnelle Toliet Tissue and Cottonelle Flushable Wipes to give to friends. I gave one set to my neighbor Dawn and the other set to my neighbor Tracey. Both were very appreciative and couldn't wait to try them.

 
My family really likes the Cottonelle Flushable wipes, and I know I'll continue to buy them. They are the right size, shape, and don't smell funny. The other brand of flushable wipes we've tried, the family didn't like.

I haven't heard back from either Dawn or Tracey, but family emergencies have kept me away the last week or so.

Cottonelle is giving away 4 $10,000 bathroom makeovers, and go HERE to enter. I hope someone I know wins, and boy this would be a great win for me. Our master bathroom does need some serious help.

Friday, May 3, 2013

Book Review: That Summer by Jo Huddleston

As a member of the Chistian Women Affiliate (CWA) I'm given the opportunity to read and review books. I was given a hard copy of That Summer by Jo Huddleston, which is the first book in the Caney Creek Series. Book #2 and book #3 are scheduled to release in April 2013 and September 2013, respectively. The opinions of this review are strickly my own.

From the back of the book: The Great Depression brings devastation to the Southern Appalachians but love's triangle survives.

To escape his poppa’s physical abuse and their dirt-poor farm life, Jim flees to an imagined prosperous city life where he can make his own choices, ignoring God patiently knocking on his heart’s door. Settled in town, Jim strays from God and the way of faith his momma taught him. He meets a girl and loses his heart … and meets another girl and loses his willpower. Jim wrestles with social and moral dilemmas as he makes a choice beside Caney Creek that will alter the lives of five people.

The book begins in 1928 and continues on through the next 2 years. Then, the story picks up again 20 years later in 1950. I don't want to give away the plot or spoilers.

I have mixed feelings about this book, and I don't want to say it was 'bad' because it wasn't. I think the target audience is off somewhat, because I didn't feel like I was reading an adult book. It reads like a preteen/teen book...maybe for ages 11 - 14. There is nothing in That Summer that is objectionable, so it is appropiate for a younger reader. The writing style is simplistic yet very detailed...too detailed in places. The reader gets bogged down in the details as the bigger picture passes by. When I finally wanted to know some details, near the end of Part 1 of That Summer, they weren't there, leaving me frustrated.

Part 2 picks up the story of Jim and his family 20 years later, and I felt like I missed something in those 20 yrs. I had lots of questions that weren't answered, though I kept hoping they would be answered. Maybe I'm jumping the gun, and I'll get the answers in the next book.

I do like the whole historical context, and what it was like in the Southern Applachians at this time in our history. The author does a good job portraying life in a southern town during the late 1920's.

This is a Christain book, so God does play in important role throughout the book. In a way, God is an actual character in the book.

Overall, I'd rate the book 3 stars for an adult book but 4 stars for a preteen/teen book.





Product Details

  • Paperback: 220 pages
  • Publisher: Sword of the Spirit Publishing (November 2, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1939219035
  • ISBN-13: 978-1939219039
  • Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.9 x 0.6 inches
  • Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)

Saturday, April 27, 2013

Woolite

While you may know Woolite® as the detergent for treating your delicates, Woolite® is also specially formulated to keep the love that you have for your everyday clothes, whether vintage or fresh off the rack, alive.

WOOLITE<sup style="font-size:.7em;">®</sup> FABRIC CARE CENTER
I was given samples of Woolite to hand out to friends so they could try Woolite for themselves. The samples were sent to me from Crowdtap (www.crowdtap.com). I have handed out all of my samples, minus the one I kept for myself, but you can get a coupon directly from Woolite. http://www.woolite.us/register/   #woolitewashed

I buy the Woolite darks for my jeans and jean shorts. It keeps them looking new and helps keep my blacks from fading.

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

What Are We Celebrating Today....


I saved my first post and then somehow I still lost it to the Gather gremlins. How annoying!!! I'm now tired and grumpy, so I'm done with the beginning of this post.
So...what are we celebrating today....
1). National Zucchini Bread Day: I love zucchini bread and Redbird makes some delicious bread. Why this day is zucchini bread day is beyond me, as the zucchini isn't usually ripe yet. I would think this holiday would be in July or August.
2). Lover's Day: This one isn't for affairs...sorry. It's just to give shy people that extra push towards True Love....
3). World Laboratory Day: I like this one, as I've spent a large amount of time in labs over the years. World Laboratory Day celebrates the place where great discoveries, inventions, and medical cures are born. It's also where mad scientists dwell...and yes, I know, I stepped in to that one. LOL.
4). Take a Chance Day: Life is full of risks, and today is the day to take a chance....gamble on something. As they say "Nothing ventured, nothing gained". Maybe this holiday is suppose to be celebrated in conjunction with Lover's Day? Take a risk and find your true love.
5). Talk Like Shakespeare Day: Oh, this could be fun! This holiday commemorates the 449th birthday of Shakespeare. There is even a website: http://www.talklikeshakespeare.org/ Here are some tips from the site.
Instead of you, say thou or thee(and instead of y’all, say ye).
  1. Rhymed couplets are all the rage.
  2. Men are Sirrah, ladies are Mistress, and your friends are all called Cousin.
  3. Instead of cursing, try calling your tormenters jackanapes or canker-blossoms or poisonous bunch-back'd toads.
  4. Don't waste time saying "it," just use the letter "t" (’tist’will, I’ll do’t).
  5. Verse for lovers, prose for ruffians, songs for clowns.
  6. When in doubt, add the letters "eth" to the end of verbs (he runneth, he trippeth, he falleth).
  7. To add weight to your opinions, try starting them with methinks, mayhaps, in sooth or wherefore.
  8. When wooing ladies: try comparing her to a summer's day. If that fails, say "Get thee to a nunnery!"
  9. When wooing lads: try dressing up like a man. If that fails, throw him in the Tower, banish his friends and claim the throne.
6). World Book & Copyright Day: This holiday is a yearly event on 23 April, organized by UNESCO to promote reading, publishing and copyright. It was celebrated for the first time on 23 April 1995. The day was probably picked due to Shakespeare's birthday.
7). World Book Night: Now this one is for me! is an annual celebration dedicated to spreading the love of reading, person to person. Each year on April 23, tens of thousands of people go out into their communities and give half a million free World Book Night paperbacks to light and non-readers. In 2012, World Book Night was celebrated in the U.S., the UK, Ireland, and Germany. For more information go HERE.
Have a good day!

Monday, April 8, 2013

Book Review: Tempting Cameron by Karen Erickson

was given a free e-copy of Tempting Cameron by Karen Erickson. The opinions about the book are all mine and were not influenced by anyone.
From Amazon:

The girl next door never looked so good...
For Cameron McKenzie, Chloe Dawson has always just been his younger sister Jane’s best friend—a pesky annoyance who followed him around and acted like he hung the moon. It isn’t until Jane’s wedding to her firefighter beau Chris that Chloe reappears in his life…and she isn’t pesky or annoying anymore. In fact, the beautiful Chloe tempts him beyond reason. But Cam knows he’s damaged goods—not nearly good enough for Lone Pine Lake’s resident good girl.
Chloe’s always dreamed of a future with the dark, brooding Cam, and after they share an explosive kiss, she wonders if her dream could be coming true. Cam’s never stuck around his hometown for long, though, so she makes him an offer: one sweet summer romance with no strings attached. This good girl’s ready for an adventure…one that just might end up lasting a lifetime.
Tempting Cameron is Karen Erickson's newest book and the second in the Lone Pine Lake series. I have not read the first book (but for some reason, I thought I had). The first book does NOT need to be read in order to enjoy Tempting Cameron.
Cameron McKenzie is home, a home he's avoided for a long time. He now has a few dark secrets he doesn't want know. Sweet Chloe is the 'girl next door' that pined for him for years but has grown up. There are times that I just wanted to smack Cameron, because he can be a royal jerk....to Chloe and his family. Other times, I feel bad for Cameron and wish him the best.
The book is definitely a very sweet romance (though Karen Erickson is known for her more steamy books). I don't want to give away too much of the plot, though it does follow the boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl formula. To me, it was a nice afternoon read where you can sigh as you close the book.

Sunday, April 7, 2013

What Are We Celebrating Today -- April 7, 2013?

Yesterday was a catastophe of unfortunate events. First, Mike woke us up at 4:45 am., because he decided last minute to go turkey hunting. Ang and I then got a late start, but that wasn't a big deal. When I arrived at work, I found the gate padlocked shut. HUH??? Had to call my boss, and he called the principal of the school. She never answered nor called him back. Angela and I ended up having to carry EVERYTHING around the fence to a small gate that was opened. It was exhausting and very time consuming. Oh, then I noticed the portijohn we have had been tipped. It was probably kids, but it still made one huge mess. My day did not approve and I'm glad it's over.

So....what are we celebrating today....

1). National Beer Day: On April 7th, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Cullen-Harrison Act into law, ending the 13 year long prohibition of alcohol in the United States. So make a toast to FDR today! (I'm not a beer drinker, so I'll be skipping this one).

2). No Housework Day: No chores. No guilt. Let your dishes sit for a day and your laundry pile up. Just make sure to do something worthwhile with all your found time.... Unfortunately, I HAVE to have the kids get going on dishes, so I'm not mentioning this holiday to them at all....nope.

3). World Health Day: This holiday is sponsored by United Nation's World Health Organization (WHO), and World Health Day focuses upon a different health theme each year. It is an international event to emphasize and work on important health issues or problems, and many countries around the world participate. The theme this year is: High Blood Pressure. For more information go HERE.

4). International Beaver Day: April 7 was chosen as International Beaver Day because it is the birthday of the late Dorothy Richards of Little Falls, who studied beavers for 50 years. The beaver is one of the most important wild animals for a number of reasons. First, because they build dams and prevent flooding. And second, because beavers protect us from greenhouse gas emissions. "Beaver wetlands, like all wetlands, are the best ecosystem for storing carbon," said Sharon Brown, of Beavers, Wetlands, and Wildlife. "And if they are destroyed, carbon dioxide goes into the air and that's a dangerous greenhouse gas."



(hmm...I'm hoping Wolverine day is coming up. Let's go blue!)

5). International Snailpapers Day: My first thought when I saw this holiday was, "huh?", then it hit me. I knew what that meant. This is a holiday to celebrate hard-copy media. So, pick up a print newspaper today and read it today! Soon the printed newspaper will go the way of the horse and carriage....and I know a lot of us only pick up the Sunday paper for the coupons.

6). National Coffee Cake Day: This is a good one for a Sunday morning. The definition of a 'coffee cake' is just one served with coffee. That means almost any cake can be considered a coffee cake....just serve coffee with it. All different nationalities have their own versions of coffee cakes. Hmm...maybe I can figure out a gluten free one that tastes good.

If you find anything else to celebrate, just post it below. I hope you're having a peaceful Sunday.

Friday, March 29, 2013

What Are we Celebrating Today....

Another day of work. If I didn't need the money so bad, I'd be at Jurassic Park 3D. I do hope Mike and Christopher go.....I will be angry if they don't, as I could have given the passes away.

So...what are we celebrating....

1). I am in Control Day: On March 30, 1981, President Ronald Reagan was wounded in an assassination attempt. Lots of confusion prevailed, and in the White House, then Secretary of State Alexander Haig was taken a little out of context when he said "I am in control here". Instead of focusing upon the entire statement, people and the press foscused upon these few words, so on that infamous day, I am in Control Day was born. So today, you are in control...take a deep breath and relax. Yeah, right...I never feel in control anymore.

2).National Doctors' Day :This holiday was created to show appreciation to your doctors. Doctors perform vital diagnosis, treatment and care for yourself and your family. Doctors' Day observances date back to March 30, 1933. It was started by Eudora Brown Almond of Winder, Ga., and marks the anniversary of the first use of general anesthesia in surgery. On March 30, 1958, the United States House of Representatives adopted a resolution commemorating Doctors' Day. In 1990, the congress and the senate approved legislation establishing National Doctors Day. The resolution designating March 30 as National Doctors' Day was signed by President George Bush. So go and thank a doctor today! Dr. Madini, the father of one of Angela's friends, is doctor of the week this week!!!

3). Take a Walk in the Park Day:. This is an opportunity for exercise and relaxation. Are you stressed out? A walk in the park is just what the doctor ordered, as most of us find it calming and therapeutic.....a chance to study nature....or watch children play. I'll be at the park today working. I hope the weather cooperates, so you can celebrate this holiday today.

4). Pencil Day. This holiday is in celebration of the first patent on the modern pencil. Hymen Lipman was issued a patent in 1858 for a pencil with an eraser. March 30, 2013, marks the 155th anniversary of the modern pencil, and many participating libraries and businesses distribute free pencils in honor of this significant achievement. Use a pencil and celebrate today! Guess this one anyone can celebrate.

5). Grass is Always Browner on the Other Side of the Fence Day: Yes, this one is a mouthful and a little odd. This is a day to honor all of those who did not jump ship, did not quit the same old job, or did not leave the same old relationship because things appeared to look better somewhere else. It was also created to inspire people to be happy with what they have, rather than selfish and greedy and envious of other people. I have to admit that the grass is truely bowner on my side of the fence right now....the neighbor's grass is soooo green already.

6). Turkey Neck Soup Day: Not my favorite food holiday so far. It's exactly what it says it is, a soup made from turkey necks. I don't even save the necks from our turkeys....

Have a wonderful Saturday. I hope to get a nap after work....and work on taxes...and finish filling Easter eggs for church.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Book Review: Forsaken Dreams by MaryLu Tyndall

The views and opinions in this review are ALL mine!
Book Description (from Amazon):

Embark on a seafaring adventure in a brand-new series from bestselling author MaryLu Tyndall....They left everything behind to build a new Southern utopia. . ..After witnessing the death and destruction caused by the Civil War, Colonel Blake Wallace is eager to leave his once precious Southern homeland for the pristine shores of Brazil and the prospect of a new utopian community. Widow Eliza Crawford seeks passage on Wallace’s ship harboring a dirty secret—and a blossoming hope for a fresh start. But once the voyage begins, troubles abound. Dangers at sea and enemies from within threaten to keep Blake and Eliza from the new life—and love—they long for.

Forsaken Dreams (Escape to Paradise #1) takes place in 1866, right after the Civil War. The characters in this book are SOUTHERN and have the southern mentality that was prevelant at that time in history. They blame the north for the war ("The War of Northern Agression") and for all the tragedy and destruction, not realizing (or wanting to admit) the south committed atrocities also. You have to keep this in mind when reading the book.

Colonel Blake Wallace, the head of the expedition, has seen way too much war and death. Though it wasn't know then, he suffers from PTSD. All he wants is to start over and forget about the war, though he does hate Northerners for personal reasons.

Eliza Crawford is a Civil War widow with a secret, and all she wants to do is go where no one knows her or her family. Starting over is all she wants, and she doesn't plan on having feelings for Colonel Wallace. Eliza is now the ship's nurse and boy is she in for the ride of her life.

I don't want to give too much of the plot away, so I won't say much more about it. We get to meet a whole ship full of interesting characters, some of whom play an important role in this book. Since this is the first book in the Escape to Paradise series, I'm betting some of the characters we will see again in a lot more detail (and a few I can't wait to read more about) in future books.

Forsaken Dreams is a historical Christian book. Remember that the beliefs of some of the characters, though they profess to be Christian, are not neccessarily consistent with the beliefs of today. The treatment of former slaves is one example. There are times I want to yell at a character for their treatment of the now free black family, but that was how the freemen were treated in 1866. I'm not saying it was right, but it is part of our history. Christian men and women did own slaves prior to the Civil War.

Overall, I really enjoyed the book. Forsaken Dreams gave me a glimpse in to 1866 and how the Civil War both effected and affected the Southerners. I would love to follow their path and sail from the US to Brazil ( I could never afford it), even though I felt I was on the ship with them (without the resulting sea sickness). I am now anxiously awaiting the next book in the series and am hoping I get to 'see' more of Brazil.

At the very end of the book, MaryLu Tyndall talks about how many American citizens defected to Brazil after the Civil War. It's amazing how many went, trying to recreate the 'Old South' down there. It's part of our history that I've never really heard about before but would enjoy learning more about.



Today you can get Forsaken Dreams free for your Kindle (or Android reader) on Amazon. Go to: http://alturl.com/aa9to I hope you enjoy the book.

Thursday, March 21, 2013

Book Review: Twisted Wolf

As part of the Christian Women's Afflilate, I have the opportunity to read and review books. The book I just finished is Twisted Wolf by Perry Perrett.
Summary: Heroism. Not planned. Presidency. Comes with a high cost. Pride. Slowly rises. Temptation. Hard to resist.
Is there a way out?

What if the most upright person stumbles? Oh, and that person is the president of the United States? And in the process of attempting to conceal his mistake, he is accused of treason and murder?

Army Lieutenant Josh Davis suffers a devastating tragedy while home on military leave. Trusting God for strength, he triumphs, earning the Congressional Medal of Honor. But heroism comes with consequences.

Years later, a conservative group asks Josh to run for the presidency. To his surprise, to get there, he must campaign against his father-in-law, a former one-term president. Their political and personal embattlement ends with a surprising twist of fate.

Discover what happens when Josh finds himself in the highest office in the nation. Early success leads him to seek Middle East peace. His pride increases, devours his faith, and he gives in to temptation. Observe as he attempts to cover up his sin. Witness his wife as she watches her husband’s downward spiral and potential guilt. Walk with Josh as he struggles with his own inner conflict of trusting God. Is it too late to save his marriage and his presidency? Ascertain his guilt during his impeachment for treason and the murder of six Navy SEALs. Experience the twists and turns of a life seemingly out of control.


I really wanted to love this book, as it was right up my alley. The first part of the book reminded me a bit of the Tom Clancy books about Jack Ryan (Hunt for Red October, Red Rabbit, etc), and I really enjoyed it. However, I never got "into" the book. I always felt like an outsider looking in. It's not that it's a bad thing, but I don't care for that writing style.

I consider the second part of the book after Josh Davis retires from the military. I don't want to give anything away, but I had a difficult time reading about Davis's downward spiral. Some of it didn't seem realistic, and I felt his wife would do more. I know I would have in that situation. Being removed from the story didn't help either. I was also left with some questions that I wanted answered....but perhaps a sequel is in the works.

I believe this is Perry Perrett's first novel, and it's not bad. I would give it 4 stars, as the storyline is good, but the writing style isn't for me.

CWA Review CrewThe views are all my own, though I did recieve a free copy of Twisted Wolf to read and review.

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Review: Johnsonville Chicken Sausage

As a BzzAgent, I am given the opportunity to try different items and give my honest review. One of my campaigns is the new Johnsonville Chicken Sausages. My family has now tried a couple of the different varieties available.

Johnsonville Chicken Sausage
  • Available in four perfectly seasoned flavors: Apple, Chipotle Monterey Jack Cheese, Three Cheese Italian Style and Cajun Style
  • Fully cooked for quick prep on your grill, stovetop or in the microwave
  • Contains no trans fats and no added MSG
  • Sold for a suggested price of $4.59 at the Kroger family of stores

  • About the 4 flavors of the Johnsonville Chicken Sausage (from the bzzagent website):

    Apple Chicken Sausage
    Premium cuts of chicken combined with real, sweet apples make this a flavorful sausage everyone loves.

    Chipotle Monterey Jack Cheese Chicken Sausage

    Smoky chipotle peppers and creamy Monterey Jack Cheese paired with naturally lean chicken make for a delicious sausage with just the right amount of sizzle!

    Three Cheese Italian Style Chicken Sausage

    A trio of Mozzarella, Romano and Parmesan cheeses is paired with Johnsonville’s signature blend of Italian herbs and spices and – what else? – premium cuts of chicken.

    New! Cajun Style Chicken Sausage

    Johnsonville’s Cajun Style Chicken Sausage brings together the famous, spicy flavor of the South with 50% less fat, thanks to fresh cuts of lean chicken.


    Well, let me tell you about the Three Cheese Italian Style Sausage. First of all, I'm not big on chicken or chicken products so I was very curious about these. They come in a 4 pack and look like sausages...they do not look like what I think of as chicken sausage. Originally I bought these to try out a recipe, but Christopher and I were hungry. We decided to grill them and eat them like we could any other Italian Sausage. Christopher had his 2 on buns but didn't add anything to them, not even ketchup. Since I have to be gluten free, I just had mine on a plate. I did put some ketchup on the plate to dip the pieces in.

    Surprise, surprise the Johnsonville Chicken Sausage were REALLY good. They didn't taste like chicken but Italian sausage. Wow! Christopher and I were both impressed. I loved having the cheese in them, because I just love cheese. These didn't even need ketchup! I ended up eating 2 of them...and PLAIN.

    I would definitely buy the Johnsonville Chicken Sausage again, but I'd need a coupon and/or have them on sale. They are expensive at about $4.59 for 4 Sausages. I would need 2 packs to feed my family, as 1 sausage was just not enough, even with sides.

    I'd really like to try the Johnsonville Apple Chicken Sausage, as it sounds interesting. I haven't found them in my stores yet, but Publix did say they'd be getting them in soon.

    Friday, March 1, 2013

    Review: Pure Liquid NuNaturals Stevia Products

    As part of a special group at Women's Christian Affiliate (CWA), I was given the opportunity to try new NuNaturals Stevia. These products use REAL Lemon/Orange/Peppermint ingredients and are gluten free. This was interesting, as the first box that arrived smelled wonderful, as the orange stevia bottle was broken. Oh, the smell though was just heavenly though. I contacted Ron Redding, the VP President of Sales and Marketing about the broken bottle. He was great about it and not only sent me another bottle of the Orange NuStevia, but 2 bottles of the NEW Chocolate NuStevia.

    I hesitated trying the NuNaturals Stevia, as I don't do very well with artificial sweeteners. I can't have aspertame, as it gives me migraines. A lot of the sweeteners also have a nasty aftertaste ( it seems I'm one of very few people can actually taste it).

    I was sent:






    I'm very glad I was part of this campaign, even though it didn't quite go as planned. First, ALL of the bottles smell so good...I could just sit and sniff them. Angela and I first tried the NuNaturals Lemon in a bottle of water. Angela loved it. I did not, as it had an unpleasant aftertaste (which was what I was afraid of) and I did itch a little later (but that could be something else). The big problem came a little later when we tried the vanilla. Angela still loved it, but I ended up in hives. Oops. I'm definitately allergic to the vanilla. That got me thinking and maybe the lemon bothered me...so I didn't try the orange (just smelled it). Angela liked the orange the best....she puts it bottled water.


    The Pure Liquid Peppermint NuNaturals Stevia is my favorite (and the kids are NOT allowed to touch it). It may sound strange, but I put it in my Coke. I like peppermint Coke, a lot! It doesn't take much either, about 5 drops. I also don't get an aftertaste when it's in my Coke.

    I also decided to try the Peppermint NuNaturals Stevia in some gluten free chocolate cupcakes I made. Oh my! It was sooo good. I even took a photo, but I lost it when my computer crashed. It's like someone just didn't want me posting. I guess I'll have to make more cupcakes, as they were delicious...even the kids liked them.

    Something else I did with the Peppermint NuNaturals Stevia is put some in my gluten free chocolate cupcakes. Oh my! They were sooo good. I even took a photo, but I lost it when my computer crashed. It's like someone just didn't want me posting. I guess I'll have to make more cupcakes, as they were delicious...even the kids liked them.

    I also really like the Pure Liquid Chocolate NuNaturals Stevia. Yes, I've put it my Coke. It's good, but I still like pepperment Coke better. The Chocolate NuNaturals Stevia smells just like chocolate. The only other thing I've used the Chocolate NuNaturals Stevia for is brownies. Since I now have to be gluten free, I make desserts from scratch. I cut the amount of white sugar by 1/4 cup and used 2 squirts of the Chocolate NuNaturals Stevia instead. I couldn't tell the difference and neither could the kids.

    NuNaturals has a website where you can check out all their different products and put in an order. There is even a page where you can obtain the address to request a free sample with a SASE. Or, if you need recipes to help you cook with NuNatural products.

    CWA Review Crew
    The opinions are all my own. The free products I was given as a member of the CWA.


    Thursday, February 28, 2013

    What Are We Celebrating Today.....

    I'm currently sitting at the college while Pher is in class. Mike's home sick and I can't afford to spend the gas to drive back and forth. The next 2 weeks are going to be difficult. Mike's been 'skimming' money off the top of his check thinking I wouldn't miss it. Well, guess what....I did. I've known for a while, but now is the first time I've told him that he needs to put some of that in the account. We argued about it....and he thinks the answer is me getting a full time job somewhere. Gee, that would be nice, but where??? And then who is going to take the kids and pick them up? My little part time job (that pays $20 an hour) starts up this weekend, so as long as Mike doesn't spend any money the next week or so, we'll survive. He just doesn't get it!
    Angela did something to her foot and probably needs to go in. It's been hurting her too much for too long. I don't know what to do.....but I hope the nurse is at dance tonight.
    So...what are we celebrating today.....
    1). Public Sleeping Day: Hey, I could do this one easily at the moment. This holiday is an opportunity to sleep in public. I can think of a whole lot of places to sleep in the public eye, and right now, it's in the student center at the college.
    2). National Tooth Fairy Day: This holiday is all about the Tooth Fairy. The Tooth Fairy is an American tradition with European and superstitious roots. The promise of a visit from the tooth fairy and a gift, turns the occasion of losing a tooth from something scary into something to look forward to. I know my kids loved putting their teeth under their pillows to see the tooth fairy would leave. That is, when the Tooth Fairy REMEMBERED. Oh, and the Tooth Fairy in Minnesota leaves more money than the ones in Michigan and Georgia. Now there is a Tooth Fairy movie and a sequel. The first one was a little amusing, as The Rock in a tutu was funny.
    National Tooth Fairy Day
    3). Rare Disease Day: Today marks the sixth international Rare Disease Day coordinated by EURORDIS and organised with rare disease national alliances in 24 European countries. On and around this day hundreds of patient organisations from more than 60 countries and regions worldwide are planning awareness-raising activities converging around the slogan “Rare Disorders without Borders”. This holiday even has a website.
    4). Floral Design Day: This is the perfect day to appreciate and create floral arrangements. Massachusetts Governonr William F. Weld proclaimed this day in 1995. This holiday was created to honor Carl Rittner the founder of our floral design school, a pioneer in floral art education. Rittner founded the Rittener School of Floral Design.
    5). National Chili Day: A day to recognize chili as an American staple and to celebrate our love for a great bowl of red—especially in the cold winter months. I wish I had realized this sooner, as I would have made chili today.
    6). National Chocolate Souffle Day: Chocolate anything is fine with me. I found a recipe on line for the chocolate souffle....I have never made it though.
    Chocolate souffle is not all to hard to make.

    1/3 cup sugar plus additional for sprinkling
    5 oz bittersweet chocolate (not unsweetened), chopped
    3 large egg yolks at room temperature
    6 large egg whites

    Accompaniment: lightly sweetened whipped cream
    Special equipment: a 5 1/2- to 6-cup glass or ceramic soufflé dish
    Preheat oven to 375°F. Generously butter soufflé dish and sprinkle with sugar, knocking out excess.
    Melt chocolate in a metal bowl set over a saucepan of barely simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove bowl from heat and stir in yolks (mixture will stiffen).
    Beat whites with a pinch of salt in a large bowl with an electric mixer at medium speed until they just hold soft peaks. Add 1/3 cup sugar, a little at a time, continuing to beat at medium speed, then beat at high speed until whites just hold stiff peaks. Stir about 1 cup whites into chocolate mixture to lighten, then add mixture to remaining whites, folding gently but thoroughly.
    Spoon into soufflé dish and run the end of your thumb around inside edge of soufflé dish (this will help soufflé rise evenly). Bake in middle of oven until puffed and crusted on top but still jiggly in center, 24 to 26 minutes. Serve immediately.

    Read more at http://www.ifood.tv/blog/foodie_thoughts_for_28_feburary_national_chocolate_souffle_

    This has been a bear to write and post. Gather wouldn't save it and I lost parts of it. Grr! Hopefully everything will post smoothly now....
    day#3Vt255vjKJckK0DJ.99

    Tuesday, February 19, 2013


    From the book description: Author Berney K. Dorton has written Prayer Never Fails Especially During Trials to emphasize the spiritual strength and fortitude required to pray consistently - even in the face of considerable adversity. She vividly describes the tragic loss of her love ones, and how she cared for her sick child while addressing personal health issues and Berney's faith and fervent prayers helped her cope with the ordeal. The heart-wrenching story reminds us how precious life is and how quickly tragic events can transpire to change it. This book heightens people's awareness of the value of prayer and its infinite possibilities. Berney highlights prayer as the safe haven that she can always rely on and through faith, she is able to serve an invisible God who may not be perceptible by vision or understood by intellect, but who nonetheless guides us with His spirit through trials. Outside conflict and inside fears; represent trouble. Berney, has experienced both, but she faced the trials by prevailing in prayer.

    This review was very difficult to write. I had a very tough time getting in to this book, and though it wasn't that long, it just wasn't for me. The first few chapters were a little choppy and just not my style. The stories told in the book are true, but for some reason I never felt emotionally involved in the book (if that makes sense).

    I do believe the message is a good one, and I'm sure others may get more out of it than I did. The book does try and teach one how and when to pray....and Berney does seem to be one that can be constantly in prayer or "pray without ceasing". I do agree that we all need prayer and a close relationship with our Lord.

    If one does not have at least some relationship with God, then I don't think you'd enjoy this at all. It is a Christian book and uses scripture to help teach prayer. If you are struggling with your faith and prayer, then this book may help and be of value.





    ABOUT THE BOOK:

    Prayer Never Fails: Especially During Trials is available for $13.99.

    You can purchase this book at your local bookstore or online at: Amazon or Barnes and Noble

    • Paperback: 182 pages
    • Publisher: Wasteland Press (February 28, 2011)
    • Language: English
    • ISBN-10: 1600475345
    • ISBN-13: 978-1600475344







    I received a free copy of the book from Christian Women's Affiliates, in exchange for a review. The views are entirely my own.

    What Are We Celebrating Today ----

    It's going to be a long few weeks. I really NEED to go back to work (which starts March 3rd), because we do need the money. Christopher calls tomorrow for more info on his eye surgery, but we don't have the labs back yet. I hate this up in the air....oh, and they want all the money up front. We don't have it. We don't have anything until I get the taxes finished (and I haven't started) and get our refund. I'm rredicting surgery will get postponed, again.

    So....what are we celebrating today....and it's a very light day.

    1). National Chocolate Mint Day: Chocolate Mint Day celebrates anything and everything that is chocolate mint flavored, and that includes mint ice cream, mint cookies, mint candies, and chocolate mint desserts. Today is the day to get out your Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies and eat some. Yum!!! I know I will be celebrating this holiday...



    It's also the anniversary of the landing on Iwo Jima back in 1945. Please remember all those brave men and women that fought for us in WWII. We don't have many of them left.

    Tuesday, February 12, 2013

    What Are We Celelbrating Today....

    Dance rehearsal took HOURS...and I took hundreds of photos, over 600 I think. I haven't even looked at them to see if they turned out alright. It's always difficult taking photos on a stage without a flash and down below the stage. For the most part, the kids looked great. Angela still has costume issues...most of them are too big and need to be altered. Her musical theater costume is a mess....was WAY too big, now the sleeves are too tight. I'd say something about the person making the costume, but I'll be nice. It's very frustrating though.
    Oh, Pher got buzzed yesterday too. It's about time all that thick hair was taken off...and the hairdresser complained the whole time. She thought it was such a shame that he was getting rid of all that hair. She liked the curls (as does the doctor).
    So...what are we celebrating today....
    1). Get A Different Name Day: I don't care for my first name at all, so I'm jumping on the bandwagon....no more "Mom (or Janet), I need....." and no more "Mom (or Janet), where is the....." I'm changing my name.....LOL. So, if you want to change your name, this is the day to do it. Just call me...um....hmm...Jax I guess. I don't know what else I'd be called. I do hate it when the kids at dance call me Mama Barnes...eww...that makes me feel so old..I like Ms Janet much better.
    2). Madly in Love with Me Day: Self-Love isn’t Selfish, it’s the kindest thing we can do for others. Take care of you so you can take care of them. I guess there is a reason this holiday is the day before Valentine's Day.....so you can love yourself today, before you get depressed tomorrow. LOL...sorry, couldn't help it. Okay, I found there is a website dedicated to this holiday. http://www.madlyinlovewithme.com/join/index.htm Go and sign up for your FREE Madly in Love with Me kit.
    3). Employee Legal Awareness Day: This day is to emphasize the importance of legal education for employees so that large and small businesses reduce their risk of legal problems. BORING! I know, it's important....but boring.
    4). Ash Wednesday: In Western Christianity, Ash Wednesday marks the first day, or the start of the season of Lent, which begins 40 days prior to Easter. Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentence, moderation, and spiritual discipline. During some Ash Wednesday services, the minister will lightly rub the sign of the cross with ashes onto the foreheads of worshipers.
    5). National Tortellini Day: Tortellini (tor-teh-LEE-nee) is a small pasta stuffed with a variety of fillings, and a favorite pasta dish worldwide. It is also served in soups, as in the classic dish, tortellini in brodo. Did you know that this pasta is supposed to be shaped like a belly button?
    6). Stamp Collectors' Day: If you're a philatelist, chances are you already have plans to celebrate this holiday. If not, why don't you start? Stamps are an interesting thing to collect...Pher has a collection that he put together for his stamp collecting merit badge.
    If you find something else, just post it below...and happy hump day.

    Friday, January 18, 2013

    What Are We Celebrating Today.....

    Angela had to be at school at 6:45 am and was not happy about it. This week is AMI...it's earlier this year than last year. The kids have to practice marching and drilling to make sure they're ready for Thursday. I'm helping with the luncheon and will hopefully get a few photos.

    So...what are we celebrating today....

    1). National Popcorn Day: Yum!!! I will have to celebrate this one. Strangely, National Popcorn Day is in January, yet National Popcorn Month is October. According to tradition, it is celebrated on January 19th each year, and there is some suggestion that Popcorn Day may, at one point, have been tied to the Superbowl. Make a bowl (with LOTS of butter) today!

    2). Tin Can Day: This holiday celebrates the birth of the tin can. According to Wikipedia, The tin can was patented in 1810 by British merchant Peter Durand, based on experimental food preservation work in glass containers by the French inventor Nicholas Appert the year before. Durand did not pursue food canning himself, but, in 1812, sold his patent to two Englishmen, Bryan Donkin and John Hall, who set up a commercial canning factory, and by 1813 were producing their first canned goods for the British Army.

    It's a light holiday day, and celebrating these should be easy. My family thinks popcorn is lunch or dinner. If you do find something else to celebrate, just post it below. Have a great Saturday!

    Wednesday, January 16, 2013

    What are we celebrating today???

    It's the third day of rain and Lily is driving me bonkers! She really needs to go outside for a LONG while. I know she doesn't mind the rain, but I don't want a wet dog.
    I wanted to let people know that Connie C. is alright, but she can't seem to get on Gather. It's been about 5 days now. She's going to try again today....and she has already emailed Chuck. Connie will be back on as soon as she get on.
    So...what are we celebrating today....
    1). National Nothing Day: Hey, I like this one! Celebrate this day by doing....nothing. Of course, that assumes that doing nothing is okay with your boss. This day is an "un-event" proposed in 1972 by columnist Harold Pullman Coffin and observed annually on January 16 since 1973, when it was added to Chase's Calendar of Events.
    2). Appreciate a Dragon Day: Appreciate a Dragon Day was started in 2004 by Mrs. Paul to celebrate the release of DragonSpell. Dragons as the subject of myths, fantasies and legends have captured the imaginations and have lured many interested but hesitant readers into the stories. Thus this holiday now serves as a venue to call to the adventurous spirits of both adults and children and to lead them into the world of literature. I think I'll have to get out my dragon record and play it....lol.
    3). National Fig Newton Day: The Fig Newton was named after the town of Newton, Massachusetts. According to Nabisco, the cookie was invented in 1891 by a Philadelphian, James Henry Mitchell, who created the duplex dough-sheeting machines and funnels that made the jam-filled cookies possible. He thought of the soft dough with fruit filling as cookie “pies.” Have a couple of Fig Newtons today....
    Fig Newtons fig-newton.gif photo
    4). Religious Freedom Day: Today is Religious Freedom Day — a day to celebrate the adoption of Thomas Jefferson’s Virginia Statute for Establishing Religious Freedom. Why celebrate it? We might start by remembering a history of religious discrimination and persecution. Now we have (supposedly) separation of church and state.
    5). International Hot and Spicy Food Day: Archaeological evidence suggests that people have been using hot spices in their recipes for over 6000 years. Eating spicy food actually has excellent health benefits, and some spices kill bacteria too, making food safer to consume in general. Celebrate this holiday by adding some spice to your food....or some hot peppers. Maybe I'll make some spicy venison and beef chili today.
    If you find something else just add it below. I always love the different food holidays I find. Maybe I should start listing those a few days ahead, so all of us can have the right foods on hand. LOL

    Monday, January 7, 2013

    Book Review: Prayer Never Fails: Especially Druing Trials


    From the book description: Author Berney K. Dorton has written Prayer Never Fails Especially During Trials to emphasize the spiritual strength and fortitude required to pray consistently - even in the face of considerable adversity. She vividly describes the tragic loss of her love ones, and how she cared for her sick child while addressing personal health issues and Berney's faith and fervent prayers helped her cope with the ordeal. The heart-wrenching story reminds us how precious life is and how quickly tragic events can transpire to change it. This book heightens people's awareness of the value of prayer and its infinite possibilities. Berney highlights prayer as the safe haven that she can always rely on and through faith, she is able to serve an invisible God who may not be perceptible by vision or understood by intellect, but who nonetheless guides us with His spirit through trials. Outside conflict and inside fears; represent trouble. Berney, has experienced both, but she faced the trials by prevailing in prayer.

    This review was very difficult to write. I had a very tough time getting in to this book, and though it wasn't that long, it just wasn't for me. The first few chapters were a little choppy and just not my style. The stories told in the book are true, but for some reason I never felt emotionally involved in the book (if that makes sense).

    I do believe the message is a good one, and I'm sure others may get more out of it than I did. The book does try and teach one how and when to pray....and Berney does seem to be one that can be constantly in prayer or "pray without ceasing". I do agree that we all need prayer and a close relationship with our Lord.

    If one does not have at least some relationship with God, then I don't think you'd enjoy this at all. It is a Christian book and uses scripture to help teach prayer. If you are struggling with your faith and prayer, then this book may help and be of value.





    ABOUT THE BOOK:

    Prayer Never Fails: Especially During Trials is available for $13.99.

    You can purchase this book at your local bookstore or online at: Amazon or Barnes and Noble

    • Paperback: 182 pages
    • Publisher: Wasteland Press (February 28, 2011)
    • Language: English
    • ISBN-10: 1600475345
    • ISBN-13: 978-1600475344







    I received a free copy of the book from Christian Women's Affiliates, in exchange for a review. The views are entirely my own.