Saturday, June 30, 2012

Lucy Come Home Book Review #50bookpledge

Lucy Come Home By Dave and Neta Jackson 


Check out what other reviewers here: http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/13501702/lucycomehome


 Fifteen-year-old Cindy worked long days beside her migrant worker family in Michigan's sugar beet fields in the early 1940s -- the "war years" -- until she met a dashing young man from a traveling carnival, bringing some joy and fun into her hard-scrabble life. But a tragic twist of fate -- and a dead field boss-- sent the two young people on the run, leaving behind family and everything she'd ever known.

Lucy Tucker, the crotchety old bag lady from the popular Yada Yada House of Hope series, is a veteran of Chicago streets and not about to give up her independence, even as she approaches her 80th birthday.

Until, that is, a young displaced woman with her gentle aging mother and a dog named Dandy seem to need her -- unsettling the secretive Lucy, who doesn't let anyone get too close. But just when it seems her past is catching up with her to bring her in out of the cold... Lucy disappears again. How these two tales intersect and intertwine between past and present gradually shines light into the dark corners of Lucy's murky past. But... why won't Lucy come home?


About the authors:

Dave and Neta Jackson are award-winning authors living in the Chicago area where their parallel novels from the Yada Yada House of Hope and Harry Bentley series are set.

As a husband/wife writing team, Dave and Neta Jackson are enthusiastic about books, kids, walking with God, gospel music, and each other! Together they are the authors or coauthors of over 100 books.

Visit http://www.daveneta.com for more info.

My Thoughts on Lucy Come Home:

This is the first book that I have had the pleasure of reading by Dave and Neta Jackson.  Growing up I remember watching movies and I would see homeless people in them, but I had never seen someone who actually lived and slept on the streets.  In my early 20's I visited a larger city and I have to admit that I was in shock to see homeless people sleeping on the sidewalks.  I honestly did not think that us Canadians had them as I have never seen someone who was growing up.  This brought the reality of the problem to the forefront for myself and came to the realization that just because I don't see something it doesn't excuse my ignorance on it.

Lucy Come Home I find it brings a face to homeless people.  We get to meet Lucy and we are able to see her as more then just a person on the streets.  We get to learn about Lucy, her story, her life.  This book without a doubt opens the readers eyes to the homeless and we can no longer pretend that they are out there or judge them for their situation.

I really enjoyed this book and I do recommend it to everyone.  The story is very touching and a great reminder for us all that it is never too late to change the course your life is taking.  We always have our free will to make our own choices and no matter what obsticles are thrown in our way we will always be able to find our way back home.



I received a book for review purposes.  All views expressed are 100% mine and were no way influenced.

Friday, June 29, 2012

It Is Your Chance To Get Healthy and Trim!


Graphic Designed by: Deals from MS Do


I have a great giveaway for all of my US followers who are looking at getting a little more fit for the summer and the rest of your lives!!!

 
Welcome to the Healthy And Trim Giveaway sponsored by Meg's Moxie! Are you looking to get healthier and more trim this summer? Enter this fantastic giveaway and win the chance to try some awesome products valued at $300!
We've purchased a one month supply of It Works Ultimate Body Applicator Wraps from Angie's Wraps to give away!
PLUS, we have a one month supply of Body By Vi Health Products from Body By Vi With Michelle F. This includes:
  • One bag of Vi Shape Shake Mix
  • Vi-Trim Appetite Control Packets
  • Sample Flavor Packets To Add To Shakes
  • 3 Boxes of Neuro Smart Energy Mix
On top of this, we have $20 PayPal to Give Away as well for you to shop with!
This giveaway begins 6/30 at 12:01am EST and ends 7/14 at 12:01am EST. Please enter on the easy Rafflecopter giveaway below. It is not necessary to like all Facebook pages, but doing so will get you extra entries! Any questions or issues with this giveaway, please contact Meg@megsmoxie.com. Good Luck!

Open for US

Now's Your Time to S.A.S.S. back, with the Shop & Share Saturday













Welcome to Stop and Share Saturday, or S.A.S.S., a weekend BLOG HOP, brought to you by your hosts: The Spring Mount 6 Pack and Two Children and a Migraine, Multi-Testing Mommy and The Knit Wit.



 Our goal is to get some comment love, increase traffic and hopefully get some new followers.




It's a hop, in that you move from blog to blog, But it's not a hop in that we want you to do more then just quickly jump from one spot to another. We want you to Stop & Share.




It is always a good idea to have the ALEXA TOOLBAR INSTALLED on your browser. (You want this on your computer, it constantly helps you as well as every blog you visit. Directions here.)




The more places you visit, the more likely you make it that they will S.A.S.S. you back.












RULES


  1. Please LINK TO AN ACTUAL POST, NOT YOUR MAIN SITE.



  2. PLEASE DON’T LIST ANY GIVEAWAYS.



  3. PLEASE ONLY ONE LINK PER BLOG.



  4. Take time to read the post and leave a genuine comment.



  5. End your comment with "- SASS" so folks will know you are stopping by from the Stop and Share Saturday Hop, and will hopefully return the favour.






 That's it. Have fun, find some great posts to enjoy and comment on, and enjoy your weekend!



Getting to Know The Author of The Color of Evil and Your Chance To Snag The Book

I was recently given the opportunity to review The Color of Evil by Connie Corcoran Wilson.  I had been asked if I was interested in a guest post and if I had a question for the author.  I have always wondered what each author loves about what they do.  We all know there are certain things we like and love in life.  Though if someone asks us why, it might be hard for us to explain.  Writers clearly can write and I always find when I learn about someones passion I in turn learn a bit about myself.  Check out the guest post below and if you haven't had a chance yet be sure to check out my review for The Color Of Evil and enter below for your own copy.

Ask the author:  "What do you love about writing?"


Author:
Writing is cathartic for me and always has been. When my mother would become angry
with me, rather than yell back at her, I'd sometimes lock myself in my room or in the
bathroom and write out my thoughts and feelings.

I have always found writing came naturally to me. It was my highest score on the Iowa
Tests of Basic Skills, the highest the test went. It was my highest score on the Law
School Aptitude Test (which I took 3 times) where I scored in the top 1/2 of 1% who took
the language portion. I'm a bit of a stickler for spelling things correctly and punctuating
them properly, and I've spent most of my life teaching others how to do those things.

I have never understood how or when writing became this onerous task for so many. To
me, it has always been joyous. My biggest problem is writing TOO much and, to that
end, I took a screenwriting class in Chicago from the Chicago Screenwriters' Group (no
longer extant) primarily to learn to "write short." I actually cut over 300 words from this
story at the suggestion of William F. Nolan (Logan's Run) and Jonathan Maberry, who
warned that I must have a "resolution" of sorts at the end of Book One, so that it could
stand alone or as part of the trilogy.

I had been primarily a journalist up until 2003, writing for newspapers (5) and blogs (9). I
had done interviews, feature stories, scholarly books, but I had not tried fiction. I decided
I would attempt to write "one of everything," which has turned out to be a not-very-good
strategy for making your name known and identified with a certain kind of writing.

I still want to write across genres, but, after putting out close to 20 books (and uncounted
articles...[I have over 800 on Yahoo, alone, and was named Content Producer of the
Year in Jan., 2009, for politics], I think I am going to stick to writing books where
something happens. I have never been a big fan of books where you read hundreds of
pages of description and, at the end of the description, nothing has happened.

There is nothing that feels better than finding inspiration for a story, executing it well and
having others appreciate your efforts.

Of course, sometimes they do not appreciate your story or your efforts, so you had better
do the best job you can to please yourself, because, as Ricky Nelson once sang, "You
can't please everybody. You've got to please yourself."



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Get in on your chance for a $68 Spanx Code (US)


Guest giveaway post on behalf of: NaturalHairLatina
  All the comfort and support you need!

One Lucky winner can will win Spanx Code worth $68. 00 to select from Bra-llelujah! Lace Contour, Bra-llywood Hills and the Bra-liminate Minimizer.  18+ Us Only No Purchase Necessary  End 7/6


Yes, that's right!! You my lucky US follower have the opportunity to go shopping!!! All you need to do is enter below and cross your fingers that you will be the lucky winner!


*Disclaimer
NaturalHairLatina or Two Children and a Migraine are not responsible for sponsors that do not fulfill their prizes.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Color of Evil Book Tour #50bookpledge



About the book:

Tad McGreevy has a power that he has never revealed, not even to his life-long best friend, Stevie Scranton. When Tad looks at others, he sees colors. These auras tell Tad whether a person is good or evil. At night, Tad dreams about the evil-doers, reliving their crimes in horrifyingly vivid detail.
But Tad doesn’t know if the evil acts he witnesses in his nightmares are happening now, are already over, or are going to occur in the future. He has no control over the horrifying visions. He has been told (by his parents) never to speak of his power. All Tad knows is that he wants to protect those he loves. And he wants the bad dreams to stop.

At Tad’s eighth birthday party (April 1, 1995) in Cedar Falls, Iowa, the clown his parents hire to entertain Tad’s third-grade classmates is one of the bad people. Pogo, the Killer Clown (aka Michael Clay) is a serial killer. So begins 53 nights of terror as Tad relives Pogo’s crime, awakens screaming, and recites the terrifying details to his disbelieving family. The situation becomes so dire that Tad is hospitalized in a private institution under the care of a psychiatrist–who also does not believe the small boy’s stories.
And then the police arrest Pogo, the Killer Clown.

Flash forward to the beginning of Tad’s junior year in high school, 8 years later. Tad is 16 and recovered from the spring of his third-grade year. When Michael Clay was caught and imprisoned, the crime spree ended and so did Tad’s bad dreams.

Until now, in the year of our Lord 2003, when evil once again stalks the land.

This is a terrifying, intense story of the dark people and places that lurk just beneath the surface of seemingly normal small-town America. As one reviewer says, “Wilson nails the darkness beneath the surface of small-town Midwestern life with an intense story based on fact.”
Tad must wage a silent war against those who would harm the ones he loves. A battle to the death.

My Thoughts:

If you have been following my blog for a while you will see that I am an avid reader and I read a large range of books.  I do read crime books and watch crime shows, though I always make sure I have a range of books in between.  As a child I always had an active imagination and this can also come to haunt me in my adult years especially when reading a really good book that is written and takes over my mind.  The Color Of Evil by Connie Corcoran Wilson is definitely one of these books. 

The Color Of Evil has a lot going on with it and there are a lot of characters in it.  Some times I found my self soo sucked into the book that I did not want to set it down.  It definitely reminded me of a puzzle where I was constantly thinking and trying to put the pieces together.  It is not a difficult read by any means, but the author also does not dumb down her writing for the readers which I appreciate.  Being a busy mom I love books that let me relax and escape from reality a bit.  I do have to say I always came back after reading the book a little bit happier that my life is not as chaotic as Tad's. 

Personally, I thought having Pogo, The Killer Clown as the serial killer was brilliant.  The author was able to touch on a childhood figure that many of the readers, as children, have been scared of or currently have children that are.  This allows the reader to relate to the story and understand that maybe those fears can be justifiable.  All I know is that I will never look at a clown the same way again.  I also know I am thankful that I can not see anyone's aura.  This may mean that I may be deceived by the next clown at a birthday party, but at least I will sleep until then.  I wouldn't want anyone to have to experience what Tad has in his life.  We all just have to remember the age old sayings  Don't Judge A Book By It's Cover and Ignorance is Bliss

If your looking for a new Horror book to take away for the long weekend or to read over the summer then you must check out The Color Of Evil

Want to learn more about the author?  Check out her website HERE

Happy Reading!!!


I was provided an e-book for review purposes though all the views expressed are 100% my own and have not been influenced in any way!  -Not even by Pogo, The Killer Clown.






Frankenweenie Coming To Theatres This Fall


COMING THIS OCTOBER!!

From creative genius Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” The Nightmare Before Christmas”) comes “Frankenweenie,” a heartwarming tale about a boy and his dog. After unexpectedly losing his beloved dog Sparky, young Victor harnesses the power of science to bring his best friend back to life—with just a few minor adjustments. He tries to hide his home-sewn creation, but when Sparky gets out, Victor’s fellow students, teachers and the entire town all learn that getting a new “leash on life” can be monstrous.

 A stop-motion animated film, “Frankenweenie” was filmed in black and white and rendered in 3D, which will elevate the classic style to a whole new experience. In Tim Burton’s “Frankenweenie” young Victor conducts a science experiment to bring his beloved dog Sparky back to life, only to face unintended, sometimes monstrous, consequences.

Check out the new movie trailer below and I have to say that this does look ADORABLE!!!!



Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Creston Mapes Book Review Book Tour #50bookpledge

Dark Star | Creston Mapes

Can Fame, Wealth, and Power Buy Happiness?

Everett Lester and his band, DeathStroke, ride the crest of a wave to superstardom. But the deeper they become immersed in fame, wealth, and power, the more likely they are to be swallowed alive by the drugs, alcohol, and discontentment that have become their only friends. Everett is headed down a perilous road of no apparent return when he's charged with the murder of his personal psychic. The only hope he can cling to comes from Topeka , Kansas , and the letters written by a prayerful young lady who lives there. Consistent and persistent, the notes cut straight to Everett 's empty heart, offering a fulfillment he's never grasped before. But what if he's found guilty of murder? Will he recognize the spiritual battle that's raging for his soul?

Endora Crystal was my rock...

As I staggered through the chaos of rock 'n' roll fame-the drugs and alcohol, the selfishness and turmoil-Endora was the gentle voice in my ear telling me I was special. Telling me I was adored. She was my personal psychic, and she said I had a unique purpose, a calling to give my fans happiness. To be their god.

My band, DeathStroke, dominated the world of rock. Yet strife ruled our inner circle. My family didn't know me. I loved no one but myself.

And yet Karen Bayliss was praying for me, that I would come to know the love of God and the lordship of Jesus Christ. She was not a fan. Didn't care for my music. Karen just wanted me to know peace.

Now Endora is dead, and I've been charged with first-degree murder.

Everett Lester is headed down a perilous road of no apparent return. Will he recognize the spiritual battle that's raging for his soul?


Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/bzhHu


Full Tilt | Creston Mapes


I ONCE SOWED DESTRUCTION.

Now those I love are reaping pain.
The media hype is fading and my life is no longer that of a glamorous celebrity. I'm Everett Lester, former lead singer of DeathStroke, acquitted last year of first-degree murder, now married, a Christian, and ready to take my story to the masses through music. Problem is, the turmoil of my past didn't end when the reporters left.

My wife Karen and I have received news that has rocked our world. My brother Eddie's gambling is so far out of control that the mob practically owns him. And Eddie's son, Wesley--who blames me for his brother's death--is mixed up with meth, a psychotic named Tony Badino, and a satanic voice that's urging him to take me out.

Will my Living Water tour ever hit the road? Will former fans stop hissing long enough to hear about the transforming power of Christ's love? Satan once used me for evil--only through God's power can I be used for good. The question is: will my loved ones and I be able to survive the aftermath of a rock star's life?

Everett Lester faces enemies both human and supernatural. Satan won't give up his hold on Everett, his family, or his fans without a vicious fight. God's victory is certain in the supernatural realm, but will Everett survive the earthly battle that's threatening to obliterate him?


Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/bzhMl



Nobody | Creston Mapes


American Christian Fiction Writers: "Book of the Month"

They said, "He's a nobody."
They were dead wrong.

When reporter Hudson Ambrose hears an early morning call on his police scanner about an injured person at a bus stop on Las Vegas Boulevard, he rushes to the scene to get the scoop.

His world is blown off its axis when he discovers a murdered homeless man with a bankbook in his pocket showing a balance of almost one million dollars. Should he wait for the police, knowing the case will get lost in reams of red tape, or swipe the bankbook and take the investigation--and perhaps a chunk of the money--into his own hands?

With sirens bearing down on the scene, Hudson makes an impulse decision that whisks him on a frantic search for answers, not only about the mysterious man in the black Converse high-tops, but about the lost soul lurking within himself.



Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/bzhU1


I loved these books...  I have to say at first I wasn't sure how much I would like Dark Star with all the chaos in our own current media the first thing I thought was why do I want to read about the train wreck or another star.  Though with reading it I did learn so much about myself and really about the pain that one in that lifestyle can feel.  Honestly, it seems that there is even more pain as they live within a world where they have a lot of people who are puppets and when you need someone to stand up for you and let you know what your doing is wrong, instead you find a lot of people that do not want to risk changing anything as their ride will end. Everett Lester has so much pain in his life and truly it brings back the all important message not to judge a book by its cover.  With reading Dark Start we learn so much about Everett that we would not be aware of if we judged from the outside with not knowing what was truly going on with him.

Full Tilt is a continuation of Everett Lester's story and just when you think everything is fine and going to go well for him this time on you realize he is not done fighting this ongoing battle.  Through this book it shows how family can also be the factors that can be trying to stop your from your true life's mission and path.  This I find to be a story that will hit home for many people.  We all known we can not choose our family and that we are born into them.  It is without a doubt a very painful process to watch those around you take the wrong paths and potentially destroying their life.  It is one thing to fix yourself if you decide you need to change, although it is another thing to try and help those around that you love if they do not even realize they need the help.

The Last of the Creston Mapes books I read was called Nobody.  This book is not related to the the other two books, but I did find it held similar messages that we all can relate to although maybe not to their extreme.  We all have found something that has not belonged with us and some of us may have had inner battles on what to do.  Do we turn it over or keep it for oneself.  I really found this book interesting because with Hudson searching for the answers about a crime, he really is also searching for answers about himself.  Where many people may have just ignored the homeless man or passed it onto someone else, Hudson makes a decision that takes him down a path that he truly was not expecting to go down.

With summer here if your looking for some great new books to take to the beach, the lake or even just to read while relaxing in your own backyard you must get yourself these books.  Without a doubt the book will have you questioning and looking at the world in a whole new light and most importantly you may learn a little something about yourself!

Happy Reading 

I received these books for review purposes.  All views are 100% my own and were not influenced at all.

Monday, June 25, 2012

Book Tour: Angel Eyes Review #50bookpledge

I adore Fantasy books...  This is not something I have always known about myself, but I have to say now that I have read my fair share of fantasy books I love them.  Although there is always a catch.  I love romance books as well, so if you are looking for someone to read a fantasy book with a bit of romance then I am your girl!!

Through Litfuse Publicity Group I was given the opportunity to apply to be part of the this blog tour and by the description I was so interested in the book Angel Eyes by Shannon Dittemore.  I bet you are wanting to find out a bit about this great book.




About the book:

Once you've seen, you can't unsee. Everything changes when you've looked at the world through . . .Angel Eyes

Brielle went to the city to chase her dreams and found tragedy instead. She's come home to shabby little Stratus, Oregon, to live with her grief and her guilt . . . and the incredible, numbing cold she can't seem to shake.

Jake's the new guy at school. The boy next door with burning hands and an unbelievable gift that targets him for corruption.

Something more than fate has brought them together. An evil bigger than both of them lurks in the shadows nearby, hiding in plain sight. Two angels stand guard, unsure what's going to happen. And a beauty brighter than Jake or Brielle has ever seen is calling them to join the battle in a realm where all human choices start.

A realm that only angels and demons-and Brielle-can perceive.


So are you intrigued???  I have to say right off I am in no ways a overly religious person.  I have my faith and my beliefs and would never push them onto anyone else and wholeheartedly accept anyone who may not have the same beliefs as myself.  I do not know if it is something that comes with age, but I find I am always finding out how little I really do know.  Religion is definitely one of those topics that I have to say I am always learning about and searching for my own truth.  Without a doubt I can say books just like Angel Eyes open my eyes to what could be happening around us and who are really the true players.

Unless you live in a bubble it is evident to all humans that there is good and evil in the world.  Really I don't know if you have turned on the news lately, but sometimes there seems to be more evil then good.  This is true in the book as well.  Brielle has had her share of pain and losses in her short life.  Prior to this pain she would be the girl that everyone loved to hate.  Brielle is gorgeous, talented and loved by all.  She would seem perfect, but as many of us know there really is not such thing as being perfect.  If anyone should had lost faith it would be completely understandable that Brielle may no longer have any and really no one would blame her.  Brielles pain is so evident in that it chills her to the bone and she feels as though she deserves it and will never be warm again.  If that is not enough she has night terrors and tries to put on a smile and make sure everyone thinks she is fine, but she is failing. She lives in a town where everyone knows everyone and the new kid would does not blend in and would stick out.  This is where dear old Jake come in!

I have to say I adored Jake from the beginning all the way until the end.  Sure he is good looking as well, but whats most important is he's different and I mean really different.  Jake has a gift that makes him seem from out of this world, but reality is he is 100% with otherworldly talents.  Being the new kid in school it does seem odd how much he cares for Brielle and wants her to be safe and happy, though as you read on you realize this is no coincidence at all.  As the two of these character grow closer together it is apparent that the evil is growing as well around them.  We are shown that good and evil come in many different forms and looks and what we appear to be good or evil may not always.  The book also teaches us that we are all players in this game called life and it can change in a moments notice. 

I do not want to give away any spoilers, but do feel that this book is a great read for all YA readers as well as those who are not YA.  The writing was intriguing and though provoking and I was drawn into the book and loved reading it from cover to cover.  I am looking forward to the additional books by Shannon Dittemore and the rest of the Angel Eyes Trilogy.

I know I am  not alone with loving this book be sure to check out what others think of Angel Eyes










The views expressed in this review are 100% my own and have not been influenced in anyway.  I received a book for review purposes.


Inspirational Monday

Source: http://www.picturesdepot.com

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Win a Nook Color from Shannon Dittemore (@ShanDitty)! "Angel Eyes" Giveaway and Facebook Party {6/26}

Celebrate with Shannon by entering her "Angel Eyes" Giveaway and connecting with her during the Author Chat Party on 6/26!

Find out what readers are saying here.



One "angelic" winner will receive:

  • A Brand New Nook Color
  • A copy of Angel Eyes by Shannon Dittemore

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on June 25th. Winner will be announced at the "Angel Eyes" Author Chat Facebook Party on 6/26. Shannon will be hosting a book chat, testing your trivia skills and giving away some great prizes!

So grab your copy of Angel Eyes and join Shannon on the evening of the June 26th for a chance to meet Shannon and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter

Don't miss a moment of the RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 26th!

Friday, June 22, 2012

Now's Your Chance to S.A.S.S. back, with the Stop and Share Saturday







Welcome to Stop and Share Saturday, or S.A.S.S., a weekend BLOG HOP, brought to you by your hosts: The Spring Mount 6 Pack and Two Children and a Migraine, Multi-Testing Mommy and The Knit Wit.



 Our goal is to get some comment love, increase traffic and hopefully get some new followers.



It's a hop, in that you move from blog to blog, But it's not a hop in that we want you to do more then just quickly jump from one spot to another. We want you to Stop & Share.



It is always a good idea to have the ALEXA TOOLBAR INSTALLED on your browser. (You want this on your computer, it constantly helps you as well as every blog you visit. Directions here.)



The more places you visit, the more likely you make it that they will S.A.S.S. you back.











RULES

  1. Please LINK TO AN ACTUAL POST, NOT YOUR MAIN SITE.

  2. PLEASE DON’T LIST ANY GIVEAWAYS.

  3. PLEASE ONLY ONE LINK PER BLOG.

  4. Take time to read the post and leave a genuine comment.

  5. End your comment with "- SASS" so folks will know you are stopping by from the Stop and Share Saturday Hop, and will hopefully return the favour.





 That's it. Have fun, find some great posts to enjoy and comment on, and enjoy your weekend!

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Tasty Tuesday:Bacon, Smoked Cheddar and Tomato Crostini with Asparagus



I had the chance to try out Bacon Skillet Jam.  It was not something that I would have normally have tried, but figured with the review it would a great opportunity it try it.  If you are wanting to try it for yourself be sure to check out their website: www.skilletbaconjam.com you can also contact them through email at eat@skilletstreetfood.com

I always reading about how companies came to be and thought I would share a bit about this great company:

"In 2007, Chef Josh Henderson created Skillet Street Food in Seattle, one of the first food experiences of what has since become a prototype for the national street food movement that has swept the country. Out of a vintage Airstream trailer, he created innovative lunch menus based on American-inspired food prepared with classic technique and seasonal ingredients. The reception from Seattle'ites was immediate and passionate. They were drawn to the chef driven food, the excitement of being a part of a new, energetic, urban experience, and to the intimate involvement through the use of social media channels that intensified the connection with the Skillet brand."

I thoroughly enjoy the product. It tasted so much better then what I was anticipating and I wish it was available in my local stores.  Although I was happy to see it is available to be bought online.  I personally added it to some chicken as a marinade to give the chicken a sweet smokey flavor and it was divine.  I did happen to see that there were more recipes added to their website so I thought I would share one that looked awesome!  I only wish I had seen this recipe a long while ago. 


Bacon, Smoked Cheddar and Tomato Crostini with Asparagus

Half baguette (or about 12 slices)
½ cup (125 mL) Skillet Original Bacon Spread
5 oz (150 g) smoked or extra old cheddar, thinly sliced
8 to 10 cherry tomatoes, sliced
6 asparagus spears, blanched, halved lengthwise if thick, and cut into 2-inch (5-cm) pieces
2 tbsp (30 mL) toasted pine nuts
Freshly ground black pepper



Slice the baguette diagonally into thin slices, and place on a baking sheet. Broil for 2 minutes per side, or until lightly browned.

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).  Spread about 1 tbsp (15 mL) bacon spread evenly over each crostini.

Top each with cheese, a few cherry tomato slices and asparagus pieces. Sprinkle with pine nuts and freshly ground pepper. Bake about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the cheddar melts. Serve immediately.

Serves 4 as an appetizer

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

Friday, June 15, 2012

Now's Your Chance to S.A.S.S. back, with the Stop and Share Saturday


Welcome to Stop and Share Saturday, or S.A.S.S., a weekend BLOG HOP, brought to you by your hosts: The Spring Mount 6 Pack and Two Children and a Migraine, Multi-Testing Mommy, Deals From MS Do and The Knit Wit.

 Our goal is to get some comment love, increase traffic and hopefully get some new followers.

It's a hop, in that you move from blog to blog, But it's not a hop in that we want you to do more then just quickly jump from one spot to another. We want you to Stop & Share. It is always a good idea to have the ALEXA TOOLBAR INSTALLED on your browser. (You want this on your computer, it constantly helps you as well as every blog you visit. Directions here.) The more places you visit, the more likely you make it that they will S.A.S.S. you back.








RULES
  1. Please LINK TO AN ACTUAL POST, NOT YOUR MAIN SITE.
  2. PLEASE DON’T LIST ANY GIVEAWAYS.
  3. PLEASE ONLY ONE LINK PER BLOG.
  4. Take time to read the post and leave a genuine comment.
  5. End your comment with "- SASS" so folks will know you are stopping by from the Stop and Share Saturday Hop, and will hopefully return the favour.

That's it. Have fun, find some great posts to enjoy and comment on, and enjoy your weekend!

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Calling all Coach fans! Chance to get your own!

Coach!!!  Need I say more!  I have to say Coach handbags are one of the most popular ones I see stylish women with!  Now you have the chance to win your own own purse and wallet!  All you need to do is enter below and you could get your very own Coach.  

Yes, you could end up winning a COACH $348 SOHO LEATHER FLAP Silver-Bronze PURSE BAG F17217 and a Wallet SOHO F45622

Whats even better is that it is open for US AND CANADA!! 

Good Luck!


**Powered by Madame Deals and Slop Swap**
This giveaway will run from 6/14 12:01 am EST thru 6/30 11:59 pm EST
If you've entered any of our other Madamde Deals Events, this will be easy for you.
There is 1 mandatory entry of a blog comment plus Facebook likes for bonus entries.
Wait for the Rafflecopter to load and enter below:

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Disney XD Gets on The Grid with the Series Premiere of TRON: Uprising on June 23

School is over for some students and almost over for the rest!  If your looking for some fresh television for your family then I recommend to check out this new animated series coming out courtesy of Disney XD


NEW ANIMATED SERIES FEATURES VOICES OF ELIJAH WOOD, MANDY MOORE AND BRUCE BOXLEITNER REPRISES HIS ROLE AS TRON

The future belongs to a hero in Disney XD’s new animated series TRON: Uprising. Set in the era of TRON between the 1982 feature film and Walt Disney Studios’ TRON: Legacy, TRON: Uprising follows the heroic journey of a young program named Beck, who becomes the unlikely leader of a revolution. The games begin on Saturday, June 23 at 2 p.m. ET with back-to-back premiere episodes.

TRON: Uprising introduces viewers to Beck, a young mechanic living in Argon City, a growing metropolis in a far off corner of The Grid that has just been occupied by General Tesler, a henchman of the notorious Clu. After his best friend Bodhi is ruthlessly derezzed by Clu’s army, Beck seeks justice for his lost friend and launches a crusade against the regime. His rebellion captures the attention of Tron, the greatest warrior The Grid has ever known, who sees the potential in Beck and trains him to be his successor.

In the premiere episode “The Renegade Part 1,” Beck’s training with Tron is interrupted when he is captured by a Recognizer patrol and sent to the Coliseum to fight in the games. There, Beck joins forces with fellow prisoner Cutler, a fierce warrior program, to fight their way out of the deadly disc competition. Following the premiere, TRON: Uprising will air in its regular timeslot on Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. ET behind Disney XD’s turbo-charged animated series, Motorcity.

In a total grid takeover, DisneyXD.ca has launched a dedicated TRON: Uprising supersite where viewers can watch “TRON: Uprising, Beck’s Beginning,” a 30-minute prelude to the series that sees Beck set out on a mission to free his home and liberate his friends. Visitors to DisneyXD.ca can help Beck evade General Tesler’s menacing guards by playing the new “Escape from Argon City” game; more TRON: Uprising themed games being unveiled on the supersite throughout the summer. Disney XD OnDemand also offers new episodes of TRON: Uprising as they become available weekly starting June 26.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

$50 Amazon GiftCard could be yours!


Who doesn't love free money?  I know I adore both Amazon and Paypal and look forward to anyway that I can get some extra money for my love of shopping.

If you would like a chance to win 1 ($50) payment via Paypal or in Amazon gift card then you must enter below!  This giveaway is open worldwide!

Good Luck!



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sac O Grand #Giveaway

I adore handbags! There are so many different styles and looks and prior to having children I had a matching handbag to go with my outfits! Once having children this wasn't an option as it seems you carry the entire house with you. Now I find a purse that I love and no matter what it will make me feel fresh and trendy.



Do you need a new handbag? Do you want and need to update your purse. Then this is the giveaway for you! Check out this awesome bag and it can be for you! Open to US and CAN! Enter below! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, June 3, 2012

Cool Baby Giveaway Blogger NO FEE sign up Opp!



Just Add Cloth


Sign ups are now open for the Hot Fluff Cool Baby giveaway event! We are giving away a $300 cloth diapering prize pack from Greenie Beanie Bottoms! Head on over to Just Add Cloth and sign up for this free event!

Another NO FEE Blogger Opp- Spanx!!

Ladies and Gents!!

I found another FREE Opp if your looking for some, be sure to check this one out!  It is for Spanx!!  They are only looking for 100 Bloggers so be sure to get over there ASAP!

HERE

Another great blogger Opp!




Girls Are So Much Fun and 




Addilyn's Turning 1 Birthday Bash Giveaway!













Sweet little Miss Addilyn Rose, is turning 1 year old and we are looking for some crafty divas and snazzy bloggers to help us kick off her birthday with a BANG by doing a custom little girl giveaway!!  


So far, our giveaway items just starting out are a custom Tutu, 8x10 Canvas Print of YOUR Photo, Copy-Kids DVD, Personalized Juppy Baby Walker, 5x7 Picture Frame, 8x10 Picture Frame, 3 Boutique Bows, Personalized Children's E-Book and a Custom Made Dress!  And we are just getting started!  The prize list grows by the hour!





We have TWO sign up options.




One for Crafty Divas that make handmade items
 and one for Snazzy Bloggers 
(and yes, there is a free sign up blogger option too)




(If you are not a crafty person but you are a blogger, scroll down to option two)






Sign Up Option One for Crafty Handmade Product Sponsors:


1. Donate one custom made item FOR Addilyn 



  • Name: Addilyn Rose Rotenberry

  • Gender: Female

  • Initials: ARR

  • Size: 12-18 Months 

  • Shoe Size: Toddler 5

  • Room Decor: Pink and Brown





Examples of items could be:






  • Custom made dress, Shirt, Outfit or Shoes

  • Personalized Embroidered Shirt

  • Embroidered or Handmade Blanket or Quilt

  • Vinyl Lettering

  • Picture Frames

  • Bows

  • Bow Holder

  • Hand Painted Wall Art for Little Girl's Room

  • Hand Made Toys or Toddler Items

  • Embroidered Diaper Bag

  • Custom Personalized Sippy Cups or snack holders






The possibilities are ENDLESS!




*We will need to receive this item by June 14th at the latest!  I will email you my address upon completion of the below form in order to send your item for Addilyn to me so I can complete my amazing review of your product before the giveaway starts.  You will be responsible for shipping if you are not local in Dothan, AL. 


2. Donate same custom made item FOR the Givewaway



  • If your item is a personalized item (example - embroidered name, etc.) you will be provided with contact info of the winner and winner will be provided with your contact information upon close of the giveaway, and the winner being chosen via Rafflecopter.)  You will also be responsible for shipping.

  • If your item is not personalized just send both items to me together and I will take care of mailing the items to the winner.





So you will be donating 2 items!





What do our crafty sponsors get in return for their amazing gift and giveaway donation? TONS OF EXPOSURE!!





  • I will do an exclusive positive review of your product on my blog's home page and will permanently list a link to the review on my “Product and Website Reviews" page.  

  • In my review, I will include links to your Facebook Fan Page, Twitter, Website, eBay store, Etsy Store – any or all that you choose.  

  • I will include photographs of the product you send me for Addilyn in the review posting. 

  • I will share the review post on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

  • I will list your “linky button”, logo or link to your Website/Facebook/eBay store/Etsy store on the “Favorite Blogs, Sites & Products” page permanently.

  • You will be listed as a sponsor in the giveaway and linked throughout the giveaway post with pictures and praises of your amazing products.

  • You will be listed on the Rafflecopter giveaway form with ANY link(s) of your choosing. That's right - ANY AND ALL. No limit!  This will get you tons of exposure!





Click Here for the Crafty Sponsors Sign Up Sheet









Not a crafty person but you are a snazzy blogger and want to be a part of this Giveaway?  
We have a few choices so Option Two is for YOU!



Sign Up Option Two for Blogger Sponsors:


1.  Donate $20 towards a Toys R Us Gift Card 
($10 for Addilyn and $10 for winner)


  • This will get you unlimited links of your choice on the Rafflecopter Form





2.  HOST Option:  Donate $12 to cover extra gift card purchases, shipping, etc. 


  • You will get 8 links of your choice AND will be a linked co-host of this event.






3.  Donate $10 towards a Toys R Us Gift Card 




($5 for Addilyn and $5 for winner)






  • This will get you 5 links of your choice on the Rafflecopter Form



4.  Donate $5 towards administrative costs to put the giveaway post and Rafflecopter form together.


  • You will get 2 links of your choice on the Rafflecopter Form





5.  FREE Sign Up






  • You will get 1Facebook Page link on the Rafflecopter Form





Note:  FREE Blogger Signup Sponsors:  If you refer the most bloggers, you will be able to get 5 links on the Rafflecopter form for FREE!





Click Here for the Blogger Sign Up Sheet 












EVERYONE must be committed to promoting this giveaway on all giveaway sites they know of, twitter, Facebook, etc. during the giveaway.  Promotion is what is going to get us exposure and followers!  










This contest will be live (hopefully) from June 30th to July 30th 2012
Sign ups will end June 7th 2012







For paying bloggers, please send payment as a gift only (so there are no fees) via Paypal to email address hrotenberry@hotmail.com. Do not mention giveaway or contest anywhere on the page where you send me the fees, because Paypal frowns upon that. Just leave your name and blog name in the subject title.

Also, if you would just like to promote this giveaway sign up opportunity but not sign up, This Girl's No Expert would really appreciate it!  Just send an email to heather@thisgirlsnoexpert.com and I will email you the HTML to put on your blog to promote this opportunity. 






Click Here for the Crafty Sponsors Sign Up Sheet




Click Here for the Blogger Sign Up Sheet









Thank you all so much for your help! 
 I think this will be a lot of fun and will 
be a great way to celebrate my 




little Addilyn Rose turning 1!!








Please click here to copy and paste the HTML code in your own blog post in order to promote this blogger sign up:





















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