{{Book Review}} Mothering From Scratch by Melinda Means and Kathy Helgemo

Mothering From Scratch: Finding the Best Parenting Style for You and Your Family by Melinda Means and Kathy Helgemo

Find Your Own Mothering Style

Trying to follow someone else's rules for mothering can take the joy out of being a parent. But Mothering From Scratch shows you how to develop your own style that helps you be the best mom for your kids.

Full of solid biblical truth, this book will help you

• explore your personality and examine your strengths and weaknesses in order to find what works for you
• tap into the resources surrounding you and get mentoring and support from other moms
• push past the fear of change or doing it wrong and allow room for grace in your mothering

Melinda Means and Kathy Helgemo provide a flexible, customizable approach to help you discover your optimal parenting style.

*My Review*

When I got the email with the description about this book, I knew this was a book that I needed to read! I felt as if the authors were speaking directly to me. Melinda and Kathy, are both honest, and encouraging. 

This book allows the doors to be opened to examine many approaches of parenting, which we moms are often so afraid to talk about with one another. 

I loved this book's emphasis on the idea that "expert" advice may not apply to all, and that as long as we are living according to Biblical convictions, then we have freedom to create our own unique style of parenting based on how God made us and our children. 

This is a much-needed message  that many people in today's parenting world need to hear. Overall, I loved this book and it is a book worth having on your shelf.

*Disclaimer*

I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion. I am not required to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

{{Book Review}} Hidden Agenda by Lisa Harris

His cover is blown. Now his enemies are on his heels and closing in.

Presumed dead by friends and family, Michael Hunt is alive--and on the run. Presumed dead by friends and family, the undercover assignment he's been working for the past eight months has just been blown. With a hit out on his life and corruption inside the Atlanta police department, Michael finds himself hunted by both the cartel and the law. His only hope is Olivia Hamilton--the daughter of the man who wants him dead.

This nonstop chase from Christy Award-winning Lisa Harris will leave you breathless.


Praise for Lisa Harris's Southern Crimes Series

"Readers looking for a strong female protagonist and a unique murder mystery will find much to admire in Harris's work."--Publishers Weekly on Dangerous Passage

"Harris takes you on a trail that leads straight to the worst kind of evil--and the lives of those who are determined to stop it."--bestselling author Lynette Eason on Dangerous Passage

"A thrill ride from start to finish. Full of twists and turns, this exciting story will keep readers enthralled."--RT Book Reviews on Fatal Exchange

*My Review*

I was supposed to post this yesterday, but I've had three sick kids...so it got put off because my kidlets come first, always. Anyway, now on to the review!  This book is the first book I've read by Lisa Harris. The book starts out with a heart-pounding scene and doesn't lets up until the end. I seriously felt like I was watching a movie, instead of reading a book. I kept trying to guess how everything would end and never was able to figure it out. This is a wonderful book that will keep you in suspense until the last page.

"Hidden Agenda" is the last book in the series, but you don't have to read the other two books, this book works as a stand alone book, although if you do read them, you will fully understand Michael's undercover job and how his "death" affected his family and their jobs.

{{About The Author}}
Lisa Harris is the award-winning author of more than twenty books, including the Christy Award winnerDangerous Passage and Fatal Exchange. Winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 fromRomantic Times, Harris has spent over ten years living with her family as missionaries in Mozambique, where she leads a women's group and runs a nonprofit organization that works alongside their church-planting ministry. Visit www.lisaharriswrites.com for more.

*Disclaimer* 

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. I am not required to write a positive review. All opinions are 100% my own.

{{Book Review}} The Financially Confident Woman by Mary Hunt

You have what it takes to take control of your money

Have you ever felt that you lack the know-how to take control of your financial life? You're not alone. But it's not a lack of savvy that's the problem, says personal financial expert Mary Hunt; it's a lack of confidence. And Hunt is here to help you develop a can-do attitude toward money so that you can take control of your finances.

Using the lessons she's learned from her own hard-fought battle with debt, Hunt empowers you to cultivate nine essential money habits, including

· giving
· saving
· investing
· rejecting unsecured debt
· preparing for emergencies
· getting what you pay for
· and more

She also includes a six-week action plan to help you get started right away.

You're smart, you're capable, and you're just a few steps away from a positive, confident financial future.

*My Review*

As I opened this book to read it, I see that it was first published in 1996. 

Even though Mary Hunt did present information and plans for getting out of debt and 

make good financial habits. There were times while reading this book that I felt it was written more for single or those who are widowed. 

The author encourages readers to write checks and keep a balanced checkbook. 

Why would you do that since there is online/automatic bill pay, bank apps that let you immediately check balances.

Saving money and getting out of debt should be a priority, 

It would have been nice to see the percentage of income that needes to be 

saved instead of the dollar amounts.

This book will be most beneficial to fans of the author's website, 

single or widowed women, and those of higher and more affluent income.

 {{About the Author}}

Mary Hunt is an award-winning and bestselling author, a syndicated columnist, and a sought-after motivational speaker who helps men and women battle the epidemic of consumer debt. She is founder and publisher of the interactive website Debt-Proof Living, which features financial tools, resources, and information for her online members. Her books have sold more than a million copies, and her daily newspaper column, Everyday Cheapskate, is nationally syndicated through Creators Syndicate. Hunt speaks widely on personal finance and has appeared on shows such as NBC's TODAY and Dr. Phil. She and her husband live in Colorado. Find out more at www.debtproofliving.com.

*Disclaimer* 

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. I am not required to write a positive review. All opinions are 100% my own.

{{Book Review}} A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings

With few options of her own, nurse Abigail Stuart agrees to marry her patient, a gravely wounded soldier calling himself Jeremiah Calhoun. They arrange a quick ceremony before he dies, giving Abigail the rights to his Ozark farm and giving Jeremiah the peace of knowing someone will care for his ailing sister after he's gone--a practical solution for both of them.

After the war, Abigail fulfills her side of the bargain--until the real Jeremiah Calhoun shows up, injured but definitely alive, and wastes no time in challenging Abigail's story. Abigail is flummoxed. After months of claiming to be his widow, how can she explain that she's never seen this Jeremiah Calhoun before? How can she convince him that she isn't trying to steal his farm? And will she find a way to stay, even though this practical arrangement has turned into a most inconvenient marriage?

*My Review*

This is the First book by Regina Jennings that I have read. I didn't get to read it for a few weeks after i got it due to having other books to read first, but when I DID start reading it I nearly read the whole book in one night!  This book had drama, romance and even comedy, one of my favorite parts were the pranks with the kids. I will def be looking for more titles by Regina! 


If you are looking for a great read, then you should check this book out ASAP!

{{About the Author}}

Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a history minor. She has worked at The Mustang News and First Baptist Church of Mustang, along with time at the Oklahoma National Stockyards and various livestock shows. She now lives outside Oklahoma City with her ornery husband and four dangerously charming children.

Visit Regina's website at www.reginajennings.com.









*Disclaimer*
I received this book free from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion. I am not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Harlem Globetrotters are coming to town!!! Houston, Texas Jan 23rd, 24th, & 25th 2015!!!!

Don't Miss The Harlem Globetrotters Coming to Houston's NRG Arena for 4 Games on Fri, Jan 23-Sun, Jan 25. Save $7 Off Select Tickets to any Harlem Globetrotter Game with promo code FAMGUIDE now on sale! The iconic Harlem Globetrotters are coming to an arena near you with their unrivaled family show, featuring some of the greatest athletes on the planet. With incredible ball handling wizardry, amazing rim-rattling dunks and trick shots, side-splitting comedy and unequaled on-court fan interaction, this must-see event is guaranteed to entertain the whole family creating memories that will last a lifetime. The Globetrotters will face a great challenge this year against the Washington Generals who were the last team to beat the Globetrotters in 1971, and are now coached by a former member of that team. They are on a mission and will do whatever it takes to win, with a new strategy that is sure to give the Globetrotters a run for their money. My Readers save $7 Off select tickets to any Globetrotter Game this season at http://www.harlemglobetrotters.com/tickets Use promo code FAMGUIDE

*I'm super excited to go see these guys! I've never been. My girls are going to LOVE it! check back after 24, Jan to read my review!*

*Disclaimer*
This post is sponsored by US Family Guide. I am not paid for this post. I will however, receive 4 FREE tickets to go see the Harlem Globetrotters in exchange for my honest opinion.

{{Service Review}} Letter from Santa from SantaWillWrite.com

So...the other day I did a post(you can see it here) about a website called "santawillwrite.com" because I did that post I received a free "deluxe" package worth $29.95...I chose to get the letter package for my 5 year old. That package came in the mail today!

It came in this super shiny envelope addressed to my daughter. Of course I blocked out our address for obvious safety reasons.

Here are the letters from Santa & Roudolph! This site is crazy easy to use. You just go to www.santawillwrite.com pick a package that you want, and enter your child's name, gender, 3 things they have on their Christmas list, & something they did throughout the year to be put on the "nice" list.  The one thing I wasn't too crazy about was that there was loose glitter on the letter, nothing major...just something that bugged me.

Here is the "nice list" certificate. I showed my oldest daughter and she just laughed...typical older sister. lol

Last but not least...Here are the other "goodies" that came with the letters!
a scene to decorate with the sticker sheet, 5 temp tattoos, and a "don't eat pete" game

...on the other side of the game are these fun activities.

All in all I am very pleased with the package we received from santawillwrite.com! Next year I plan on purchasing letters for my two younger girls.

*Disclaimer*
I received the above items from Santawillwrite.com for free through US Family guide in exchange for my honest opinion. I am not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

{{Book Review}} A Promise to Protect by Patricia Bradley

In a steamy small town riddled with broken promises, one woman's secret could change everything.

Acting Sheriff Ben Logan hasn't heard from Leigh Somerall in a very long time, but it doesn't mean he can get her--or their whirlwind romance of ten years ago--out of his head. When she calls out of the blue, it is with a strange request to protect her brother, Tony. But all too soon, Ben is charged with a different task--protecting Leigh from the people after her brother. With Leigh doing everything in her power to avoid Ben, it's no easy task. And the secret she is keeping just may change their lives forever.

"A taut story of mistakes and betrayal, a mother's fierce love, revenge and danger--and the redeeming wonders of faith and love."--Lorena McCourtney, author of the Cate Kinkaid Files and the Ivy Malone Mysteries

"Old secrets, second chances at love, and a skillfully crafted small-town suspense. You will fall in love with Ben and Leigh and cheer them on as they fight for their happy ending. I'm making room on my shelf for all of Patricia Bradley's novels!"--Susan May Warren, bestselling and award-winning author of When I Fall in Love

*My Review*

Sheriff Ben Logan made a promise to protect Leigh Somerall, when Leigh's brother Tony was shot and killed. With the death of Tony weighing heavily on is mind, Ben tries very hard to keep his promise to Tony by protecting Leigh and her son. 

As if her brother death wasn't enough Leigh finds herself involved in a series of break-ins and shootings. Not only does she have to keep herself and her son alive; she also has to keep a huge secret that could change her life as well as Ben's

When her house is set on fire, Ben wants to keep her even closer to him so he can protect her. Leigh gets the idea to not let Ben protect them anymore. She soon believes she will never be safe again. She can't understand why the people who killed her brother want her dead too.

Patricia Bradley keeps you holding on till the end to see if Ben & Leigh  act on their feelings toward each other.

Patricia Bradley is the winner of a 2012 Daphne du Maurier Award and a 2012 Touched by Love Award and was also a finalist for the 2012 Genesis Award. The author of Shadows of the Past, she is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. Bradley makes her home in Mississippi. Learn more at www.ptbradley.com.

*Disclaimer* 

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

{{Book Review}} The Woman Code: 20 Powerful Keys to Unlock Your Life by Sophia A. Nelson

Every woman lives by a code, whether she realizes it or not. It informs how she treats others and herself, how much she expects of herself, and how far she is willing to go in order to find success. But is the code we're living by truly helping us create the lives of purpose and fulfillment we desire? Or are we sacrificing the deeper things for mere achievement? 

In this inspiring book, Sophia A. Nelson calls women to live out a powerful life code that will lead them to purposeful and successful lives. With the wisdom that comes from experience, Nelson reveals to women

· the true meaning of "having it all"
· how to take better care of their minds, bodies, and souls
· how to achieve professional excellence without compromising their values
· how to find lasting love and purpose in life beyond their accomplishments
· how to navigate the sisterhood of women, to build collaboration rather than competition
· how to heal from past hurts, rejection, and life's inevitable storms
· and much more

The Woman Code is a way of living, of navigating life's challenges, and of interacting positively with other women. It's a way of pursuing our dreams and our deepest desires. It reveals a universal and timeless set of principles of the mind, body, and spirit that help women balance the demands of work, home, family, and friendship. The Woman Code not only calls on women to practice purpose in their lives, it shows them how to do it with grace.

*My Review*

 After reading "The Woman Code" I wish that I would not have signed up to review it. There
are several well known people, such as Arianna Huffington(Editor in Chief of The Huffington Post), Sherri Shepherd(Co-Host of the ABC's View) any many other who had great things to say aboutthis book. I was sure that this book would be great, but unfortunately I was very disappointed and I was not able to finish this book. I had problems getting into this book from the very first page. Section one as it is called the author writes about "Knowing Your Value" then goes on to list three(3) keys that you do/use to unlock your value which are; 

1) Erasing the negative tapes in your head. 

2) Realizing that what you think about yourself is what others will think about you. 

3) Shift your thinking to put you at the top of your list. 

A little later in the book she goes on to explain these keys. It didn't really help me much at all. After reading much of this book I felt like the whole "Me, Myself, & I" was being promoted. There are certain times when people SHOULD put themselves first, but as born again Christian, wife, and mother I cannot and will not believe in the whole "putting myself first" as a part of knowing my value.

I did skim through the book and there were some sections of this book that I did like. I personally liked Section III She talks about "The Spiritual Codes", these codes are about gossiping, apologizing, choosing your thoughts and words wisely. Sophia offered up some great advice in that section.

I feel like I need to put this out there and say that I hate giving a bad review for anything, be it a book review, product review, or location review. It wouldn't be very convincing if I wrote a positive review for EVERYTHING posted here on my blog. I will not apologize for not liking this book, because that is my opinion & that is why I was sent this book...to review and give it my HONEST opinion.  I only choose titles to review that I believe I will enjoy, there are times when I request to review a title because the email makes it sound very interesting and then when the book gets here I am majorly disappointed.

Just because I didn't care for this book, doesn't mean my readers wouldn't enjoy it.

Have you read "The Woman Code"? Did you like it? comment below and let me know what you thought about it!

*Disclaimer*

I received this book free of charge from the Baker Publishing Group(Revell devision). I am not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are 100% my own.