Make It Happen Blog Tour

Tour Schedule

About the Book

Author: Kylee Shields

Release Date: October 2012
Publisher: Walnut Springs Press
Genre: Self-Help

Book Description
Do you know what it means to be a kigatsuku person? Are you currently in a “hurricane” relationship or a “bridge”relationship? Do you know what it takes to be “righteous in the dark”? Have you struggled to find your place in the world as an LDS single? Do you feel like a misfit or a menace—like a circle trying to fit into a square?

If so, you’re not alone. It used to be an anomaly to be twenty-one and single in the LDS culture, but now there are entire stakes filled with single adults. In this book, author Kylee Shields explains how you can make the most of your single life, even if your current situation isn’t what you expected.

Make It Happen is a collection of principles, blog entries, stories, and conversations had on couches, floors, kitchen tables, and at many single-adult gatherings. It is filled with practical ways to make changes in your life, find hope, increase faith, strengthen relationships, and build the kingdom.

My Review
This book may have been specifically written for a single person...
But...I learned SO MUCH about ME and MY LIFE even though I am married!

I learned about being in HEALTHY relationships, taking charge of my LIFE instead of just going with the flow, how to set GOALS, how to change it up to get more VARIETY in life, how to turn off technology to be more PRESENT in the moment, how to truly STUDY the scriptures and have more MEANINGFUL prayer, and how to GROW where I am planted.

I LOVED Kylee's stories from her life and the things she has gone through and how she has grown because of them. I APPRECIATED how candid she was as she shared many personal feelings.

This book really touched my heart!
I think EVERYONE needs to read this book!

Giveaway
As part of the tour, Kylee is offering 4 amazing giveaways!! These include a $25 gift card to Amazon, a $25 gift card to Target, and a hard copy and ebook copy of the book.

To enter to win these prizes, simply fill out the Rafflecopter form provided. (Each tour stop will have the same Rafflecopter form).

• Open from January 8 to January 31.
• Must be 13+ years of age to enter

Earn entries by doing any/all of the following:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author
My name is Kylee and I am passionate about life. I am the oldest of 8 children and have the most amazing parents ever. I have one adorable niece and another niece/nephew on the way in May. I grew up in Oregon, moved my senior year of high school to Utah, then moved to San Diego, Boston, and currently live in Arizona.


I went to BYU and got my BA in English (creative writing/Editing) and a minor in Linguistics. I love words and writing! There is something very powerful in putting words together and expressing human emotions. I love poetry, reading great novels, blogging, etc. I have an old typewriter I adore and like to type out letters now and again and seal them with wax. I am an author and avid reader. I love learning new words and can trace that back to my mom who has the most amazing vocabulary.


I also attended ASU and got my Masters in Social Work (emphasis in clinical therapy). It has been said I went from God's University to the Devil's. I have always been drawn to the "punk kids" and absolutely love my job. I work as a Shadow (family therapist) at The Anasazi Foundation. I get to do therapy with amazing adolescents out in the deserts of Arizona. My office is on the trail and I get to throw rocks, hear hearts, and get to know some incredible kids from all over. Not bad for a day job!

When I am not with my family, hanging out with my friends, or working I absolutely love to travel. I have been to Egypt, Ghana, Italy, Mexico, Canada, Ireland, Scotland, and almost all 50 of the states. I love music—singing, writing songs, playing the piano, and listening to other musicians. I co founded a Musical Fireside group that is in the process of becoming a non-profit. I have loved watching INSPIRE: music. service.hope grow and touch the hearts of those who hear us sing.


I love God and try to recognize His presence in my life. For Him I am indebted for my many blessings and tender mercies. All that I have and am is because of Him.

Social Networking Links:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

Purchase Links:

• Deseret Book
• Amazon

(A digital review copy of this title was provided by the author for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

The Power of Everyday Missionaries

Take everything you have ever learned about being a "member missionary" and then re-think it through this book.

Sometimes we know WHAT we need to do
But we just don't know HOW to do it.

Clayton Christensen helps us understand the HOW of being a member missionary through some simple techniques.

Here are just a few:

1. Do not judge who YOU think will be receptive...leave that to the Lord.
2. Use Gospel-lingo in everyday conversations...it will open up natural conversations.
3. Share the truth...it is really that simple.
4. Set goals and deadlines...it is easy to say "I'll do it tomorrow." But tomorrow never comes.
5. Become a "virtual missionary" by posting a blog or answering questions on blogs.

This book also has some AMAZING insights for EVERYONE on HOW to pray, study the scriptures and how to keep the Sabbath Day holy.

Great stories to illustrate the principles taught and a powerful testimony at the end.

Raggleroot Blog Tour

Tour Schedule

About the Book
Author: Erik Olsen
Release Date: January 2013
Publisher: Cedar Fort Inc.
Genre: Fantasy

Book Description
Flin has always been told to stay away from the doors with five clover leaves. But when his only option to return home lies behind those doors, he’s forced to go against everything he’s believed. What he discovers is not only devastating, it’s deadly. Full of humor, action, and twists, this can’t-miss read is sure to keep you entertained to the very last page.

My Review
This book is the 3rd book in the Flin series. They really are filled with humor, action, twists, treasures, plant life unlike you have ever seen before, and friends who help each other.

Erik is an amazing writer who paints the picture so well you can see it in your mind and feel as if you are on this amazing journey yourself. These books are written for middle/teen readers, but adults will find them fascinating too!

To read my review of the first Flin book Cobble Cavern click HERE

About the Author
Erik Olsen lives in Sandy Utah, where he enjoys the mountains and is surrounded by a great family and friends that have continued to support him throughout his writing quest. After having one of the world’s craziest dreams, he began writing a series of five books detailing it, called Flin’s Destiny, which is full of continuous action and adventure deep in the earth and keeps you wanting more.
You can learn more about Erik’s writing at www.flinsdestiny.com. And don’t forget to check out his other book: Cobble Cavern and The Garden of the Lost Souls.


(A digital review copy of this title was provided by the author for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Join the 8-Week Challenge

Faithful, Fit & Fabulous
Filled with humor and “I can relate” life experiences, Faithful, Fit, and Fabulous is the ideal 8-week life boost that will refresh any woman's life. Create a personal and effective life plan, and learn how to readily apply it in your busy daily life. Establish holy habits, feel fit and fabulous, and get organized. Just one goal a week for eight weeks—it's simple and fun.


Message from Connie

Hi Ladies,

This is the moment. This is the year. You can be your best self, your most beautiful self, your most faithful, fit, and fabulous self. Ever. Twelve months are before you-what will you do with them?

Years ago, after bearing several children and feeling overwhelmed, I created and lived my “Year of the Change.” During twelve months of taking life by the horns, I lost weight, got organized, and discovered more joy. Since then I’ve tweaked and taught the principles I have learned and now share them with you.

So make this your year of fabulous change by joining us on the “8-week Challenge” starting on January 8th! The 8-week Challenge is an online success program of “8 goals in 8 weeks in 8 areas of your life,” including fit and fabulous, get organized, balance womanhood and motherhood, and more. Using the Faithful, Fit and Fabulous book, each week you set and achieve a goal, with help from my podcasts, video segments, blog posts, and motivational emails!

Simple, fun, and productive. This program works (see testimonials below). And this year, we’re giving our new 2013 Fit & Fabulous podcast series FREE to those who sign up with a friend! Both of you receive weekly podcasts and posts on weight loss/energy gain tips and strategies. Jill Holmes, our online marketing director, has lost and kept off 50 POUNDS! She'll share her personal tips and secrets to make weight loss work for you, even eating chocolate daily.

Here's what women have said about the 8-week Challenge:

“I have learned so many things about who I am and what I want to do in my life. I have also gained a new sense of happiness. My husband and girls have noticed just in the last week the change in my attitude and they have told me that it is nice to hear me laugh again.” C.Adams

“Thank you so much for giving me the needed push to do something I've wanted to do for months & never completed. That has never happened for me with goal setting. THANK YOU!” B.Bird

“If I wouldn't have been doing the challenge I never would have thought to [accomplish this goal]. I am so glad I did this 8 week challenge! I want to continue these small goals for the rest of my life.” C. Rose


So join us now and jumpstart your ideal life. Get that closet organized, start that exercise program going, find that joy in daily living!

Join now and, because you’re reading this blog post, receive your 8-week Challenge for only $29, thru Jan. 8th only!

http://8basics.com/store/books/start-the-8-week-challenge-refer-a-friend-discount.

Sign up a friend and BOTH receive the 8 podcast series of “Fit & Fabulous”.

Email us for more information at connie@8basics.com.

Learn more here: http://8basics.com/b2b-life-coaching-support

So what are you waiting for? Join us for a fun and fabulous life-changing experience!

Author Connie Sokol
Connie Sokol is a mother of seven, a national and local presenter, and a regular speaker at Education Week. She is a monthly contributor on KSL TV “Studio 5,” and regular blogger for KSL "Motherhood Matters." She is a former TV and radio host for Bonneville Communications, and columnist for Deseret News and Utah Valley Magazine. Mrs. Sokol is the author of several books including the award-nominated romance Caribbean Crossroads, the 8-week Challenge program of Faithful, Fit & Fabulous, Life is Too Short for One Hair Color Series, as well as talk CDs and podcasts. Mrs. Sokol marinates in time spent with her family and eating decadent treats.

Website * Facebook

Escucha Means Listen Blog Tour

Tour Schedule

About the Book

Author: Talia Aikens-Nuñez

Release Date: November 2012 

Publisher: Musa Publishing

Genre: Children's Picture Book

Book Description

From the mowing of the lawn to the splish-splashing of rain puddles, Talia Aikens-Nuñez’s bilingual picture book Escucha Means Listen introduces toddlers and babies to the sweet sounds around them.

Take a journey through the world—just listening. Escucha Means Listen helps children discover sounds around them in English and Spanish.

My Review

This book is darling!

Cute, cute pictures and simple words bring the languages of English and Spanish to life.

This is a perfect book to read not only to a young child but as an adult to learn more words in either Spanish or English.

Tens List

When asked "what are the top ten words everyone should know in Spanish?"

The author provided the following list:

Thank you --  ¡gracias! Please  --  Por favor  Yes/No -- sí/no  Hello -- ¡hola!  Goodbye -- ¡adios!  I don’t know -- / No sé/ I don’t understand -- No entiendo Excuse me -- Perdón or ¡disculpe! Do you speak English? -- ¿Hablas ingles? Your welcome -- ¡de nada! (‘De nada’ technically translates to ‘of/from nothing’ but received like ‘think nothing of it’ or ‘you’re welcome’)  This Top Ten list is given with a large asterisk-- different countries, and sometimes different regions of the same country, have different terms they use and ways they enunciate different words. For example, if you drive in Mexico or Spain you will see “Alto” stop signs but if you are traveling in Puerto Rico or Chile you will see “Pare” stop sign. About the Author Talia Aikens-Nuñez wanted to be a meteorologist, a politician and a lawyer. She never thought she would be a writer. It was the birth of her daughter that caused her to start writing. Raising a bilingual child inspired Talia to write lyrical children’s books. These ‘first experience’ books introduce Spanish to children and parents too! Talia’s family loves nature so much that she and her husband vowed that they will always try to live close to water. She, her husband and daughter, Isabella, live on a river in Connecticut. Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/21/13 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway (A digital review copy of this title was provided by the author for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Life is Too Short for One Hair Color

For some laughter therapy read this book!
For some really good advice on
Womanhood
Couplehood
Motherhood
read this book!
Connie Sokol is an amazing writer and life coach!

I LOVED the funny stories in each chapter followed by a LIFE TIP to help you put into practice the things you just learned...
and as an added bonus...
there is a BOOK PICK to further your enlightenment on the subject.
SO GOOD!

To follow her website click HERE
To sign up for her 8-week challenge click HERE

Regally Blonde

What a cute story!

Jamie has put her life on hold to help her mother.
She has also been called to teach the Sunbeam class in church.

David and his 3-year-old daughter, Sunny, have just moved in next door.

When Sunny sees Jamie, her new teacher, she immediately claims her as her "earth mommy."

Jamie quickly finds out that Sunny's "heaven mommy" was killed in a car accident.

Jamie is attracted to David, but she is also engaged to Christopher.

Can Jamie be the "earth mommy" Sunny so wants?


I have to admit I stayed away from romance books for the longest time...my genre was always suspense .

But since I have started this blog I have delved into these contemporary romance stories and now truly enjoy them.

Heather Horrocks is one of my new favorite authors.
I LOVE her books!

I will definitely be reading more from her :)

Castles on the Sand

This is the FIRST book I have EVER read WITHOUT reading the back of the book first to see what the book was about...

I LOVED the cover and the title so I wanted to read it...and I won it as a FREE book...

SO...

 I had no idea what the story-line was going into it.

I will admit there were a few times I wasn't sure I wanted to finish the book...

But then I found myself wanting to know more and more and more...

So I kept reading and reading and reading.

I finished it in two days...I couldn't put it down...

I am SO GRATEFUL I finished the book!

It is one of those books that you really think about and want to share what happened with many other people.

The Gospel of Second Chances

WOW this book is AMAZING!

The gospel is TRUE!
The atonement is WONDERFUL!
Second chances are REAL!

EVERYONE has done SOMETHING they WISH they could go back and do-over...
Sometimes we even need third and forth chances...

Filled with scriptural and modern stories this book helps us understand that Christ makes if all possible and gives us the HOPE to keep on trying...HE gives us a second chance.

Pivot Point

This book is WAY BEYOND anything I expected!

It is INTRIGUING!

It is AMAZING!

It is FANTASTIC!

It is ABSORBING!

It is STARTLING!

And all those other words that mean it is SO GOOD!

Meghan has a chance to go back in time and choose a point...a pivot point...and make ANOTHER decision from the one she originally made.

Through dreams she can see how life would turn out had she made that different choice.

The story that unfolds will keep you captivated!

I LOVE Betsy Brannon Green's writings...she is one of my favorite mystery writers with her Haggerty Series.

But this suspense story of hers is definitely at the top of my best reads for the year!

She leaves us hanging at the end so I hope she writes a sequel to let us know what happens next!

Mistletoe Magic

It's 1813 in England where all dating/courting rules are very proper...

That is except for the upcoming Christmas Eve masquerade ball, where masks are worn and mistletoe hangs...

Then one could flirt and lure and kiss in hopes of winning the heart of that someone special...

The one who doesn't see you without the mask on...

Can Evelyn win the heart of Michael with a kiss under the mistletoe?

Or will Colin get Evelyn under the mistletoe first and show that he is now more than the childhood friend she grew up with.

Perfect read during the Christmas season.

Donna Hatch is a fairly new author for me.  I have read a couple of books from her now and I will read more as she is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors; especially for Regency Romances.

Am I a Saint Yet Blog Tour

Tour Schedule

 

About the Book:

Author: M. Sue Bergin

Release Date: October 2012

Publisher: Cedar Fort

Genre: Self-Help

 

Book Description:

We all want to be perfect. But attempting to perfect ourselves instead of relying on the Lord can actually sabotage our spirituality. Discover how to recognize perfectionism in yourself and find relief for your soul in this encouraging book that combines scriptural principles with real-life case studies. Change your thinking and move onto a more authentic and joyful gospel path.

 

My Review:

To be "perfectly" honest...I signed up for this tour because I needed to read this book! YES! I am a perfectionist. I am trying to overcome it...but it is HARD!

 

This book really did have some great advice:

 

1. Mine the Power of Your Thoughts~~ "Words, thoughts and images are powerful. You can CHOOSE to use that power to step away from hurting your spirit and instead nurture it."

 

2. Just Say No to the Comparison Trap~~ This for me was a real eye-opener..."The antidote to comparing is sharing AND replacing comparison with gratitude."

 

3. Nurture Your Spirituality~~Excellent help in handling anxiety-provoking scriptures!

 

I loved how Sue was so personal about her own journey. I also loved the "Strategy" and "Breather" sections.

 

In the Appendix Sue had these two quotes that need to be shared:

 

"We all need to remember: men are that they might have joy--not guilt trips!

~Elder Russell M. Nelson

 

The Church is "for the perfecting of the saints" (Ephesians 4:12); it is NOT a well-provisioned rest home for the already perfected.

~Elder Neal A. Maxwell



 

I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to be a better person today than they were yesterday!

 

About the Author:

Sue Bergin is a writer and hospice chaplain who lives in Orem, Utah. She drives throughout a five-county area to accompany dying men and women on their final journeys. She earned a bachelor’s degree from BYU, a master’s degree in journalism from Northwestern University, and a master of fine arts from UCLA in screenwriting. She is a board-certified clinical chaplain through The College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy.
Sue writes the Family Focus section for BYU Magazine and has written for many other publications, including the Ensign, the San Francisco Chronicle, The Wall Street Journal, and Psychology Today. She has been a public relations executive for BYU and has taught writing courses at BYU and the University of Utah.
Her dearest loves include time with family, small dinner parties with friends, rescuing animals, collecting art, and creating things with her hands – from soulful collages to crocheted earrings. She believes with all her heart that there really were gold plates, that the Book of Mormon is the most remarkable book ever written, and that Jesus Christ is our only hope, personally and globally.

 

(A digital review copy of this title was provided by the author for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Cobble Cavern

What a great adventure story!

 

Flin and his debate team have earned the right to go to Ireland to compete.

 

But what starts out pretty standard turns into everything dangerous and amazing!

 

Almost missing the plane because of a prank, having to ride in an old bus, experiencing an earthquake, falling below the surface of the earth, searching for a way out and finding themselves below the ocean, animals that try to eat them, plants that try to destroy them, rain tunnels, wind tunnels, finding treasure and finding friendship...all are in this wonderful book.

 

This book was written as a Middle Grade/YA Fantasy, but adults will love it as well.

The Little Book of Christmas Spirit

WOW! What a book!

This book is full of FUN, CREATIVE, EASY ideas to make your Christmas season more enjoyable AND more meaningful!

Right off-the-top the author quotes President Howard W. Hunter with 22 things we can do at Christmas:

1. Mend a quarrel.
2. Seek out a forgotten friend.
3. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust.
4. Write a letter.
5. Give a soft answer.
6. Encourage youth.
7. Manifest your loyalty in word and deed.
8. Keep a promise.
9. Forgo a grudge.
10. Forgive an enemy.
11. Apologize.
12. Try to understand.
13. Examine your demands on others.
14. Think first of someone else.
15. Be kind.
16. Be gentle.
17. Laugh a little more.
18. Express your gratitude.
19. Welcome a stranger.
20. Gladden the heart of a child.
21. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth.
22. Speak your love and then speak it again.

Then the author goes on to tell about:
Christmas Traditions
Christmas Symbolism
Some suggested Christmas Books to Read
Gift-giving, including Gifts to the Savior
Christmas Trivia
Learning about Christmas from your Ancestors
Christmas Caroling
Christmas Memories
Christmas Humor

Each chapter ends with a suggested activity to try.

I have to share some of the Christmas humor from the book...

Q. What comes at the end of Christmas Day.
A. The letter Y.
Q. What goes OH. OH. OH.
A. Santa walking backwards.
Q. What do elves learn in school?
A. The elf-abet
Q. Which of Santa's reindeer has bad manners?
A. Rude-olph.

Do you know what would have happened if it had been the three Wise Women instead of the three Wise Men? They would have asked for directions, arrived on time, helped deliver the baby, cleaned the stable, made a casserole, and brought disposable diapers as gifts.

Kids' Interpretations of Christmas Carol Lyrics:

• We three kings of porridge and tar
• Noel, Noel, Barney's the king of Israel
• Sleep in heavenly peas
• Good tidings we bring to you and your kid

You know it's a tough Christmas when you get batteries with a note attached saying, "Toy not included."

This book really is AMAZING!

Finding the Baby Jesus Blog Tour

Tour Schedule

About the Book:
Author: Kimball Fisher
Release Date: Oct 2012
Publisher: TFG Press
Genre: Christmas

Book Description:
After being forced to wear lederhosen for the annual holiday card picture, twelve-year-old Chris thinks that the least his parents can do is get him the Tony Hawk skateboard he wants for Christmas. But when he recovers the hand-carved Baby Jesus that everyone thought had been destroyed in a fire the year his Grandma died, Chris realizes that some gifts are even more important than skateboards.

My Review:
Christmas stories help us remember the true meaning for Christmas...Christ...and...how to have Christlike charity.

Finding the Baby Jesus is a cute short story of a boy who only wants a skateboard for Christmas...

BUT...

After finding the baby Jesus that his grandmother had hidden away for him he realizes that there are more important things that should be given for Christmas.

A good read to make your holiday truly meaningful! I LOVED it!

About the Author:
Kimball Fisher writes novels for young readers. He is also a best-selling business author, professional speaker, and management consultant. Some of his past jobs include: sailboat builder, ghost writer (not as scary as it sounds), illustrator, and factory manager (more scary than it sounds). For fun he builds furniture, stained-glass windows, and writing pens.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities (with minors in English, Asian Studies, and Japanese), and a Master of Organizational Behavior degree from Brigham Young University. He and his amazing wife Reenie live in Portland, Oregon, where they have seen pheasants, coyotes, and a bobcat in their own backyard.

There is a $25 Tour wide giveaway that runs until December 26th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway





(A digital review copy of this title was provided by the author for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

The Jingle Bell Bum

Tour Schedule

About the Book:
Author: Patricia Hanrion
Publisher: Cedar Fort
Release Date: October 2012
Genre: Christmas

Book Description:
Joseph was a shabby imitation of Santa Claus, with his Salvation Army kettle in front of a Kmart, but what no one could have guessed was that Joseph was a miracle waiting to happen. This inspiring Christmas story tells the true tale of a group of teenage carolers who changed the life of a down-and-out bum. A moving and unforgettable read!

My Review:
My heart needed this story today...for I too have been caught up in the marathon we call "getting ready for Christmas."

What a sweet story of a woman who puts aside her own list of "to-do things" to help her teenagers in their fund-raiser...
She is uplifted in their excitement and holiday carol singing.
But the one present she wasn't prepared for was in the form of the Salvation Army bell ringer.
Over the course of the next few days hearts are warmed, food is shared, thoughts are given and all are edified...and no one is alone.
This book is a must-read for the season!

Meet the Author:
Patricia Hanrion was born in New Jersey, but became a California girl at the age of three. A graduate with honors from NYU in Nursing and Public Health, she attended UCLA while acquiring a degree in teaching. Patricia has been married to N. Patrick Hanrion for over 40 years. They have five children, (the oldest named Patrick) and 12 grandchildren, (none named Patrick). Patricia is a professor of pharmacology, and maternal-child health at UCLA Olive View-College of the Canyons and recently retired from the Wm. S. Hart Union High School District Governing Board of Education. To learn more about Jingle Bell Bum and author Patricia Hanrion, visit: http://www.patriciahanrion.com/patricia_ann_hanrion/.



The 13th Day of Christmas

From the author of...

The Christmas Jars and The Christmas Jars Reunion

Comes another Christmas tradition

The 13th Day of Christmas

Charlee is an old soul in a young body...
Miss Marva is a young soul in an old body...

Together they form a unique friendship...experience a life-changing disease...AND...receive a wonderful NEW tradition...

That of the re-making of the 12 Days of Christmas PLUS one day more.

Wonderful Traveling elves have to make some changes in the traditional story...

What if the Partridge in a pear tree was really David Cassidy hiding from a throng of screaming teen-age girls?

What if there was a miscommunication and the two turtle doves were interpreted as two purple gloves?

Each day gets twisted into wonderful gifts..

THEN...

The 13th Day of Christmas is the most special day of all!

You will laugh and cry and share a very special journey in this book...

Time to start enjoying December 26th and the 364 days leading up to Christmas!

24 Days With The Savior

Connie Sokol is doing 24 Days with the Savior on her blog, where she posts a daily scripture and thought of one character trait of the Savior's.

She's had several requests for the full 24 days right now so she put it in ebook format and it should be uploaded by the beginning of the week.


The ebook will be just .99 and she is donating all proceeds to the food banks.

She'd like to get it out there more so people know about it while it's still early in the month to use the thoughts.
To give you a taste...

DAY 1: JOY!
Luke 2:10-14
During the month of December, I hope you’ll join me daily for my “24 Days with the Savior.” Each day I’ll post a brief scripture and thought on a trait of Jesus Christ (based on an experience with my women’s church group who did this for 14 days).
As we approach Christmas, I hope you’ll enjoy this small spiritual boost to daily remember Christ, and indeed, the reason for the season.
Best,
Connie

DAY 2: HE LIFTED BURDENS
Luke 4:40
“40 Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them.”
No matter the ailment—spiritual, physical, emotional, mental—the Lord healed all those that came to Him that would be healed. Why did He do that? With His talents and abilities, He could have been anything, done anything, and to a perfection.

We find an answer in Mark 10:45:
“45 For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
He went about doing good, to all, no matter the person’s personality, or status, or if they’d been kind to Him or not. He lifted burdens and made people whole. Our job, then, is to give Him our burdens. What makes you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, exhausted, or beyond your capacity to bear? Whatever it is, He’s felt it, lived it, and overcome it. But to release us from those feelings, we must willingly and consciously lay these burdens at His feet—through prayer, faith, and action—so the He can lift them as He knows best.

What is one burden you can release and give to the Savior?
Best,
Connie

DAY 3: HE PREPARED SPIRITUALLY FOR THE DAY
Matthew 5:1
“1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:”

I think of this scripture often. I don’t have multitudes coming at me daily, but I have seven children, which feels like a multitude. And I don’t have disciples that come to me, but I have family, friends, neighbors, and people I meet who daily need to be loved, cheered, and encouraged. Instead of hurrying out of bed and going through a lengthy to-do list, Jesus went to a quiet place, talked with His Heavenly Father, and prepared spiritually for the difficult day that was surely to come. That’s a good idea. Constantly caring for others brings joy, peace, and fulfillment. And, it can also drain our reserves. Especially as mothers, we can get “set” for the day, and receive that spiritual boost and perspective we need throughout it. And in that way, we can more fully enjoy the caring as well as feel a greater connection to the ultimate Caregiver.

What is one thing you can do to spiritually prepare for the day?
Best,
Connie

FOLLOW CONNIE AT ~
http://8basics.com/blog/24-days-with-the-savior-day-1-joy

Sleeping Beauty

In all the fairy tales...Sleeping Beauty just lies there...beautifully sleeping!

But...

What if that were not so?

What if Sleeping Beauty were in fact roaming the castle...

Conversing with the servants...

Helping the cook...

Can it be?

Or is it a dream...

Just a dream in Sleeping Beauty's...sleeping mind?

Will the Prince come and wake her...and if so...will she be able to fight off the evil Villeria?

Or is living in a dream world better protection from the true world around her?

An amazing retelling of a wonderful story!

Jenni James is definitely one of my favorite authors!

I LOVE her books!

A Charlie Brown Christmas (interactive storybook app)

E-books have changed the way we read...but I believe in a good way.

Interactive storybook apps have taken it to a whole new level :)

A Charlie Brown Christmas is the best interactive storybook app I have found so far...

It is AMAZING!

You get to click on the screen and make this pop... and that move....

You get to play the piano along with Schroeder...

And so much more!

Watch this video showing how :)

App Features

• Original dialogue from the 1965 animated classic
• Captivating narration by Peter Robbins, the original voice of Charlie Brown
• Charming soundtrack featuring music and sound effects from the original show
• Decorate your own Charlie Brown Christmas Tree
• Participate in the Lights and Display Contest to unlock rewards
• Educational features such as word and note highlighting to help improve reading and musical skills
• Hear individual words spoken with the tap of a finger
• Touch and drag objects to make them “spring” to life or tilt to watch them slide and move
• Objects that literally pop out of the page to delight you and your family!

WARNING! These are addictive...

once you download ONE you WILL want more :)

 

http://loudcrow.com/a-charlie-brown-christmas

 

Bah, Humbug!

Take a clean romance...Put it in a Christmas setting...

Add a couple of snowman scenes...

Throw in family...and neighbors...

And you get a PERFECT read for the season!

This book was SO GOOD!

I LOVE snowmen and the first snowman scene had me completely hooked into the book...

Famous author Kyle Miller has a deadline...he also has writer's block...what he does NOT have is time for Christmas and family.

Lexi Anderson is famous in her own way...she is also new to the neighborhood.

Lexi is trying to get ready for her next TV show filming...the backdrop...a snowman.

Kyle and Lexi meet at an incident involving the snowman...

What happens next snowballs into a party for family and a healing of hearts.

And then the final snowman scene...WOW!

SO GOOD!

This is my second book I have read from author Heather Horrocks...and she is QUICKLY becoming one of my FAVORITE authors!

Lily Out of Bounds

Before I tell you about this wonderful book...
I want to tell you about this amazing organization...

IN THIS TOGETHER MEDIA
(Great books about Real Girls)!

Here is a quote from their website:

"In This Together Media publishes great books about real girls. Our characters are bold, funny, and fearless. The only thing sacred here is the story. When you pick up an In This Together book, you're going on an adventure. Our stories aren't ones you've read before — they come from new perspectives, take on established ideas and turn them inside out. We embrace the journey and the awe-inspiring women and girls in the pages of our books will educate, inspire, and enthrall. "

And it is SO TRUE!

Lily Out of Bounds (Soccer Sisters) is one of their books!

Lily breathes, eats, and sleeps soccer! She is one of the best players on the team...

That is until Colby joins the team.

Colby is fun and daring and a little wild.

Lily falls to the temptation of peer pressure and ends up losing a game for her team because she is so tired after sneaking out with Colby the night before.

Lily gets caught up in Colby's wild lies and stops enjoying soccer.

Finally Lily realizes she is not following the Soccer Sisters team code.

She tells her parents everything, puts her head back into the game, and starts enjoying soccer again.

Lily Out of Bounds is a book every young girl should read...(older girls and boys too)...

All will rejoice when she comes off conqueror to a real-life situation!


Check out this video from soccer star Brandi Chastain, an official Soccer Sister!




Please read my review of their other book:  Mrs. Claus and the School of Christmas Spirit
Then watch for more good books to come from this phenomenal organization.

Andrea Montalbano (the author)

+ Brandi Chastain will be on

THE TODAY SHOW tomorrow morning

at 9:40 am (Dec. 4th) to talk about

SOCCER SISTERS--

TUNE IN and please tell your friends!

(A digital review copy of this title was provided by the author for this review. However, all reviews are of my own opinion :)

Dead Running / Dying to Run

Just in Time for Christmas 

Dead Running - Dying to Run 

Price Drop & $20 Gift Card Giveaway

Dead Running

Cassidy Christensen is running.
Running from the mercenaries who killed her parents.
Running from a scheming redhead intent on making her life miserable.
Running from painful memories that sabotage her dreams of happiness.

With two very tempting men competing for her attention, she hopes she'll finally have someone to run to, but can she trust either of them? When secrets from her past threaten her family, Cassidy decides to stop running and fight for her future.

Dying to Run

Cassidy Christensen wants to run.

Captured by the traffickers who killed her mother, her only hope is Dr. Tattoo, a man she loves but nobody trusts. When she finally gets a chance to run, someone else she cares about is taken. Running might be her only chance at survival, but she won’t allow another family member to be killed in her place.

This must-read sequel to Dead Running will have you laughing, biting your nails, and hoping for more.

Purchase

Dead Running * Dying to Run

Author Cami Checketts

Cami Checketts is married and the proud mother of four future WWF champions. Sometimes between being a human horse, cleaning up magic potions, and reading Bernstein Bears, she gets the chance to write fiction.

Cami graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Exercise Science. Cami teaches strength training classes at her local rec and shares healthy living tips on her fitness blog: http://fitnessformom.blogspot.com.

Cami and her family live in the beautiful Cache Valley of Northern Utah. During the two months of the year it isn't snowing, she enjoys swimming, biking, running, and water-skiing.

Links

Website * Blog * Twitter * Facebook * Fitness Blog

Upcoming Blog Tour


Price Drop Giveaway!
$20 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash from Author Cami Checketts
Ends 12/23/12
Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For Times of Trouble

"When difficult days (and nights!) come-- and they will-- it will help us to remember that 'it must needs be,' that in the grand councils of heaven before the world was, we agreed to such a time of challenge and refinement. We were taught then that facing, resolving, and enduring troublesome times was the price we would pay for progression."

So starts this new book from Elder Jeffrey R. Holland where he helps us find spiritual solace from the Psalms.

Each chapter is only a page or two long so it is easy to read and then ponder.  Elder Holland gives excellent commentaries to make these Psalms even more meaningful!

Beautiful artwork is woven throughout the book!

Some of my favorite Psalms in the book:

Wait on the Lord; be of good courage and he shall strengthen thine heart; wait, I say, on the Lord.~ Psalms 27: 14

Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.~ Psalms 30:5

As for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I cry aloud; and he shall hear my voice.~ Psalm 55: 16-17

I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of they doings.~ Psalm 77:12

He maketh the barren woman to keep house, and to be a joyful mother of children; Praise ye the Lord.~ Psalm 113:9

The Lord is on my side; I will not fear; what can man do unto me?~ Psalm 118:6

And of course, there is a whole chapter on The 23rd Psalm...

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies; thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.



Included with the book is a 2-hour DVD of Elder Holland teaching and bearing testimony.

The Missing Christmas Treasure

It's time to set up the Christmas decorations, but the children can't find the one Christmas scene that makes Christmas...Christmas.

Wonderful story with cute illustrations makes this a great book to read to young ones at Christmastime.