Children's Art Easel Giveaway

 

Welcome to the Children's Art Activity Easel From Art Alternatives Giveaway,

hosted by Karen's Got Mail!

The Children's Art Activity Easel From Art Alternatives is constructed of solid pine, features large trays on both sides and generously sized 23-1/4″ x 23-1/4″ white board and chalkboard. The large trays are the perfect size to hold all the supplies you may need at any given time using the easel. There is also a hidden paper roll that feeds over either side and three large baskets under the easel to hold all your art supplies. Another fantastic feature of this easel is that it can easily be converted into a table top easel using the attached rubber feet for surface protection. The included adjustable legs can accommodate children of different heights or it can even be adjusted from 46″ to 54″ to grow with your child. Connect with Art-Alternatives on Facebook – Pinterest
 

One lucky reader will win a Children's Art Activity Easel From Art Alternatives, ARV $130!

Open to the continental US only. Ends 12/11/15 at 11:59 PM EST. Enter using the Giveaway Tools form below. Good Luck!

Entry-Form

Disclosure: Karen's Got Mail and the participating bloggers were not compensated for this post and are not responsible for prize fulfillment. One winner will be randomly chosen by Giveaway Tools random selector and notified via email by Karen’s Got Mail.

Week in Photos-11/25

             Hey folks! It's been another eventful week around here, though we did have a few days of semi-relaxation. We had a play date Monday at a place called Jump-N-Joeys in Bloomington, IN. It was Myka's first time doing the whole bouncy house thing, so I wasn't sure what to expect. Actually, I thought she'd be too afraid to try them, to be honest, but she ended up loving it! ...At least after the first couple of times she went down the big slides. She had what could only be described as a look of sheer terror on her face those times. Being the terrible person that I am, I wish I had gotten a picture. :D

            The deer right now (hunting season) have just been taunting us. They are always so close to the house! We have a bow and we have a shotgun, but it's kind of hard to sneak up on them in the open. Pretty sure our three nosy kittens don't help matters.

             I can't remember what day I took this, but the colors of the sky and the way it was making everything look I just had to take a picture. It was about as yellowy and weird looking in person as the picture shows.

             That's all for this week! If you celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope you have a wonderful turkey day!

Healthy Baby Bath Time Giveaway

            Keeping our children safe and healthy is top priority as a parent. We all want what's best for our children and it's important to be aware of what our little ones may come in contact with.  Parents today are becoming increasingly cautious of potentially dangerous chemicals in their households. More families are exploring natural alternatives and are noticing improvements in their health and well-being after making these substitutions.

            Latched On Mom has been focusing on making several small eco-friendly and healthier choices this year in the Make it Green in 2015 campaign.  The companies involved in this campaign care about the health of our families, as well as about Earth!  Here's your chance to win the prizes described below.  Click the links to read the reviews.
♥ BALM! Baby- Fresh Out of the Tub
Taylor's Pure and Natural- Toothpaste and Tooth Powder (ARV $27.44)
♥ WooBamboo Eco Toothbrushes- 2 packs of SPROUTS kids toothbrushes (ARV $11.90)

♥ Little Lily Bamboo- Organic Bamboo Bath Set- hooded baby towel with 2 baby wipes (ARV $30.78)

            Enter the competition by filling out the form below. The winner will be emailed, announced here in the giveaway widget once closed and I'll put a shout out to the winner on Facebook- LIKE my page to get those notifications!  Make sure to sign into the form using the email address you check most often! You will only have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be drawn. Must be 18 years of age or older. Void where prohibited. Giveaway will run from 11/24/15-12/22/15. Open to US and Canada only. GOOD LUCK!!! 

Healthy Baby Bath Time Giveaway

 

Latched On Mom and other participating bloggers did not receive compensation to promote this giveaway. This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed or associated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or any other social media. Prize fulfillment is the sponsor's responsibility. This post may contain affiliate links. WooBamboo requires Canadian winner to pay shipping. If you have any questions about this giveaway please email latchedonmom@gmail.com.

Prenatal Yoga: Feeling Good!

             Hey folks! I'm sure you've noticed by now that I prefer to take a natural approach when it comes to lots of things. However, I have a couple of confessions to make: I used to smoke for quite awhile considering my age and I still enjoy adult beverages. Needless to say, those were some not so great choices when it came to stress relief. And I've been really stressed out lately. Obviously I can't use either as a “crutch” at the moment since I am pregnant (not that that's a bad thing!), so I pondered what I could do as a “better for me” alternative. Then it dawned on me: prenatal yoga!

             I have to admit that until recently I always viewed yoga in general as kind of goofy. Yoga is just for hippies and hipsters, right? Well, I'm definitely not a hipster so maybe I am turning into a hippie because yoga just seems like the right thing to do right now. Not only was I in desperate need of some natural stress relief, I figured it would help with my back pain as well.

             Given, I've only been doing it for several days, but I can already notice a difference. Even after the first time I did it I felt noticeably less uptight/tense physically. As I'm sure a lot of other people do, I tend to carry most of my stress in my neck and shoulders. I can't believe how much more relaxed I feel in these areas since starting yoga! I even had a somewhat tense drive in the pouring rain to the doctor the other day (over an hour drive!) and I didn't even get uptight in my arms, neck, and shoulders like I normally do when I have to drive in the rain. Amazing!

             I've also noticed that it has helped with my pregnancy back pain and I just feel more calm in general. For some reason with this baby, instead of my lower back hurting it has been the middle of my back for awhile now. While it still does get a little stiff during the day, it's not nearly as bad as it was. And, while it might sound contradictory, even though I've been a hot mess emotionally from things I'd rather not go into right now, I still feel more calm. At least not quite as quick to get irritated.

             On top of just feeling better physically, I like that I am learning moves/positions that can help with pain relief during labor since I am bound and determined again to not have any drugs! And, even more than that, I am learning things that can help get baby into a good position for birth too!

             So, even if you still have your doubts, give prenatal yoga a chance. (Or regular yoga if you're not pregnant!) I rented a dvd from the library to give it a try and am glad I did. It's something I hope to continue after baby starfish gets here too when I need a little time to myself to relax and let my mind wander. :)

Yoga for Your Pregnancy DVD

Prenatal Yoga Routine on YouTube-I've only done this one once. I found it to be more intense? than the other one. While it's still definitely doable, if you're out of shape like me I recommend trying the dvd above first.

Party Snow Giveaway

Party Snow Giveaway
Hosted By
Amy & Aron's Real Life Reviews

Sponsor for this amazing giveaway
PartySnow

A special shout out to my awesome Co-Hosts
Deliciously Savvy & IMHO Views, Reviews, & Giveaways 

Thank you so much to all of the bloggers participating in this giveaway. Without you, it wouldn't be quite as exciting or get so big, I appreciate you!

Now for the fun stuff. This giveaway is open to US. There are daily bonus entries for sharing this giveaway on your social media channels.
 I can't ask you to "Like" our pages but, if you see something you like, let us know so we can bring you more of it. 
We LOVE it when you "LIKE" our pages.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you for taking the time out to enter into the giveaway. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to email Amy & Aron's Real Life Reviews at grovesamy81@gmail.com 

Winners will receive the  prizes directly from the participating companies. None of the bloggers participating in this giveaway are responsible for prize shipment or were compensated for this post.

Forest Fresh Wreath Giveaway

Hosted by: Queen of Reviews, Dorky's Deals, Barbara's Beat, IMHO Views, Reviews and Giveaways, Brooke Blogs, Deliciously Savvy, Networking Witches & Kim's Shopping Blog

Sponsor: ChristmasForest.com

Prize: 20" Art Deco Christmas Wreath

You'll love the interesting geometric contrast of the swirls and chevrons and lots of glitter!

Specs:

• 20" in diameter
• Pretty red and white bow atop noble fir and princess pine
• Free shipping to Continental US via UPS Ground
• Always forest fresh

   

Dates: 11/21-11/28

Open to: US Residents 18+

Enter to win using the widget below. Good luck!

Entry-Form

Disclosure: Mixed Bag Mama did not receive compensation for this post and is not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Lulu Kid's Creature Comforts Essential Oil Diffuser & Humidifier Review

             Hey folks! I've got a whole slew of awesome product reviews coming your way in the next month or so. Let's start out with this adorable new duckie diffuser from GreenAir!

               As most of you know, I am a big fan of using essential oils. We've been using them in our handmade soaps for several years now, but I've recently gotten better about using them in the diffuser, in convenient, roll-ons, bug spray, etc. Myka is always intrigued when I use our other diffuser from GreenAir and loves smelling anything that smells good, so I was excited to try out their new Lulu Creature Comforts Essential Oil Diffuser & Humidifier for kids! 

             First of all, I love the cute duck design so that it is extra appealing to kids. Plus, I'm all about gender neutral items still, even though we are definitely done after this little girl gets here! I think Myka and I both enjoy the novelty of being able to keep this diffuser in her room just for her. She's also entertained by the vapor coming out of the duck's mouth. ;)

             The Lulu duck diffuser is super easy to use, too. Like, easy enough your kids can do it themselves. Plus, if you have preschool aged kids like me who like to help, that's always fun too to let them help you fill the duck up with water and simply push the on/off button and you're set!

             Although I haven't tried this yet, this diffuser is unique also in that it comes with water bottles adaptors. To be honest (and I might be missing something), I don't know why you would want to use them instead of just filling it up with tap water, but at least you would have an excuse for reusing water bottles. (Reduce, reuse, recycle, people. ;) ) So there's always that option. I'm guessing it probably runs a lot longer with the water bottle filled.

             Funny enough, I was going to mention that about the only thing I didn't like about the Lulu Creature Comforts diffuser was the fact that it didn't itself off when empty. I just noticed when referencing the manual to help write this review that it's actually supposed to and that I evidently need to try cleaning the water level indicator. Hooray for troubleshooting. :)

             I also couldn't help but notice that this one is slightly noisier than my SpaVapor Touch. It's nothing terrible, though. I didn't expect it to be completely silent and it doesn't seem to bother Myka. Just worth noting. :)

             To find out more and/or purchase your own Lulu Creature Comforts Diffuser, visit their Amazon page. These cute little ducks normally retail for $59.99, but are currently available for $39.98! Plus, GreenAir is currently holding a special promotion: If you order a Lulu Duck Creature Comforts diffuser on Amazon and leave a positive 5-star review, they will send you a free Aromawave car diffuser upon receiving your Amazon review number! This would make a great upcoming holiday gift or just because present. Be sure to stay up-to-date with GreenAir on Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest.

Week in Photos-11/18/15

            Hey folks! Not much to share again this week as I finally finished up preparations for the craft fairs. Well, I'm not completely done, but the only things I have left to do are make fresh bath fizzies and gather everything up!
            Other than that, Myka and I went on a hike Monday with some of our play date group peeps. We both had a great time. I just wish I would have gotten some pictures! I did take a few on our walk to our pond over the weekend. I would just like to say our land is hilly and this 32 weeks pregnant mama was worn out afterwards!

            It was so nice out! I would have liked to have stayed for longer, but Myka was being all go go go at the time. John and I had the same idea at the same time as we were leaving, though: We need some seating out there!

            All four of our cats have to go on our woodland excursions now...(Or so they think they do.)

            I said I wanted to go for a walk. I didn't realize my husband had intended on trekking to the pond, so I was unprepared with just regular tennis shoes on. So, I made a makeshift foot bridge for fun. In the springtime, however, we're going to have to think about making a proper bridge as the creek actually does get high enough to constitute making one.

            Last, but not least, I found this awesome shirt at Walmart! I had been wanting a goofy Christmas shirt of some sort to wear to the craft festivals. When I saw this I knew I had to get it. Christmas Vacation is one of my favorite movies, holiday or otherwise. :D

            Have you been able to enjoy any nice weather where you are, or is it getting crummy? Thanks for stopping by and see you next week!

 

Play Dates: I've Become THAT Mom

             Hey folks! Sorry it's been so quiet around here lately, but I hope you've been enjoying the giveaways at least as usual. :) Like I mentioned in last week's Week in Photos post, I've mostly just been too busy to even have time to write. Other than that, I've had a bit of writer's block and the only thing I could think to write about still gets my blood boiling, so I figured we might as well skip over that!

             Other than getting ready everything ready for our upcoming craft fairs, Myka and I have not only been going to quite a few play dates, but we've been hosting the majority of the ones we've been to in the past few months. The transformation is complete. I have become that mom.

             Don't get me wrong. I don't think there's anything wrong with going or taking your kids to play dates, obviously. I just never thought in a million years that I would be the play date type of mom. In fact, I'm pretty sure I used to scoff at the idea, mostly because I assumed all of the moms who went to things like that would be upetty and clique-ish. You know, like high school all over again, but with kids added on. Who the hell wants any part of that?

             In all fairness, I did kind of get that impression from half of the moms I came across at the few meetups we went to for the play group that was around the area we used to live. Not surprising, really, as that's just the type of people that live in that area from what I have experienced. However, I decided to give the moms meetup group for here a chance after we moved and I'm glad I did. Even for being only a couple of hours away in the same state, people are so different here! ...In a good way! (Who doesn't like being pleasantly surprised? ;) )

             Other than the moms being more laid back and friendlier, the group here seems to have a much more diverse array of meetups. Let's face it: Not that they necessarily need it, but it can be hard to find social opportunities with babies and toddlers. I was happy to see that there are both public activities scheduled and in-home baby play dates hosted by different members of the group. Fun, right? We all need to get out of the house sometimes. :)

             I like that the activities for preschool-aged kids vary too so that there's bound to be something for everyone! And you know what? If no one is hosting an event or activity that you would like to do, you can always host it yourself! That's how I ended up hosting a bunch of craft play dates this fall. The kids got to do an easy craft AND run some energy off at the park! I hosted one this week for a hike and picnic at a local lake and enjoyed it so much that I plan on doing them regularly in the spring if I'm up for it after the new baby gets here. ;)

             So, while I may have not made any new “bffs”, I'm glad I gave the whole play date group thing another chance. I seem to be coming out of my anti-social shell I crawled into after high school finally. It feels good to get out of the house and talk to other adults now and then. ;) Plus, Myka enjoys getting out of the house more than I do and it's fun seeing her interact with other kids her age now that she actually has SOME interest in other kids.

             Do you and your children go to any regular activities for kids, play date meetups, or homeschool group activities? What's been your experience with play dates, if you've ever been to one? Love 'em or hate 'em?

Worm Factory 360 Composting Bin Giveaway

Hosted by: The Cheshire Cat's Looking Glass

Co-hosted by: Michigan Savings and More & Tales From A Southern Mom

Sponsored by: Earth Easy

Roominate Townhouse Giveaway

Hosted by: Queen of Reviews, Barbara's Beat, Reviewz & Newz, IMHO Views, Reviews and Giveaways, Life, Naturally & Dorky's Deals

Sponsor: Roominate

Prize: Roominate Townhouse

What’s cool about the Townhouse?

Create a multi-story building almost 2 feet high!

Customize each room with themed stickers and craft paper

Design endless creations with a complete set of Roominate furniture building pieces

Add circuitry to make the Townhouse come alive!

Use rPower (sold separately) to control the motor from your phone or tablet!

Teaches: crafting, interior design, structural engineering

Dates: 11/14-11/28

Open to: US Residents 18+

Enter to win using the widget below. Good luck!

Entry-Form

Disclosure: Mixed Bag Mama did not receive compensation for this post and is not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Pacific Resources International Giveaway

Hosted by: Queen of Reviews, Barbara's Beat, IMHO Views, Reviews and Giveaways, Life, Naturally & Dorky's Deals

Sponsor: Pacific Resources International

Prizes:  Manuka Honey, Manuka Honey Nuggets, Pacific Natural Sea Salt, Mesquite Smoked Pacific Sea Salt, Propolis Lemon & Honey Lozenges, Manuka Honey Dark Chocolate with Mint or Ginger, Propolis & Tea Tree Toothpaste

Dates: 11/14-11/28

Open to: US Residents 18+

Enter to win using the widget below. Good luck!

Entry-Form

Disclosure: Mixed Bag Mama did not receive compensation for this post and is not responsible for prize fulfillment.

Week in Photos-11/11

             Hey folks! It has been a busy, busy week! I was hoping things would slow down some this month, but it doesn't look like that is going to happen after all. To be real honest, I haven't even had time to come up with a real post, but I felt like I should at least get this one out. This week it is more of a shameless plug for our Etsy store since that really is about all we've been doing, so I hope I don't bore you to death!

             We made soap, soap, and more soap this weekend. And after the soap making was done and cut and set out to dry? I filled up even more liquid soap into bottles to be labeled! Why all the soap? I'm actually trying to get more into the craft fair scene this year so we can hopefully make some extra money for a few baby things I would like to get and maybe some car repairs/upkeep as well.

             We've also been adding some new items finally as well. Since the craft fairs we plan on doing in the next month are Christmas related, I thought it would be fun to sell these snowman craft kits and holiday lacing card kits for the kiddies.

             So yah...Hopefully I'll have some regular posts up again soon. If nothing else, I will at least have a couple of review posts for you in a few weeks!

Newton Crib Mattress Giveaway

2015 Fall Green Scene Mom Award Winners Giveaway

            We are very excited to help announce the 2015 Fall Green Scene Mom Award Winners, celebrating Eco-friendly product design and creative innovation, and bring you an awesome giveaway featuring some of the award-winning products! Check out all the great award-winning gear below!

Discovery Boxes

Prize: 1 Discovery Box, choose from Ocean Exploration, Rainforest, or Butterfly Garden.
These fun sensory Discovery Boxes from Revelae Kids will introduce kids to a magical world of realistic looking animals & creatures, sparkling gems & crystals, and colorful plants & flowers. Kids will enjoy hours of imaginative play; scooping, collecting, and sorting the hidden treasures within each box. Award Details

Fiddlediddles LullaBelay

Prize: LullaBelay Car Seat Strap & Cover
LullaBelay is the first and only adjustable strap system that safely secures an infant car seat to a shopping cart. LullaBelay allows parents to have worry-free & hands-free shopping experience! Even for those who exclusively baby wear, LullaBelay can give a helping hand. On days of inclement weather or if baby is sleeping, bring baby into the store in their infant carrier, attach the carrier to the cart with LullaBelay, then baby wear. With LullaBelay the carrier is out of the way and cart is entirely open. LullaBelay comes with the adjustable strap system with hardware, protective cover with zippered access to baby, and a small bag to store it all in. LullaBelay is CPSIA certified and is made with eco-friendly materials. Shop safe, shop happy! Award Details

Soft Skin Co.

Prize: Stretch Softly Stretch Mark Prevention Set
Stretch mark prevention during pregnancy is taken to an entirely new level with the Stretch Softly Stretch Mark Prevention System. Made from a special fabric designed to keep moisture on your skin rather than on your clothing. After applying our (good-enough-to-eat) all natural oil to your pregnant belly and bum, slip on the comfortable, lightweight tank top and shorts to keep the moisture on your skin as an ultra deep moisturizing treatment. Wear them for a few hours after a bath or overnight. It will keep your skin completely moisturized until you take them off and your skin will feel incredible! Award Details

Pello

Prize: Pello Luxe Floor Pillow - Organic Hayden
Designed by a mom for a well-loved baby, Pello is a luxe floor pillow that goes beyond the standard play mat, positioning pillow, or baby gym. The pello provides comfort and support, promotes muscle development, and encourages independent play. Pello is unique because it meets a child's ever-changing needs. The pello's distinctive donut shape, with the raised edges and soft, padded center, has several benefits at all stages of a child's life. Award Details

• Babies feel cuddled in the soft center.
• Babies with acid reflux experience less discomfort because they are laying at an angle, not flat on a floor blanket.
• As a baby gets stronger and tries to sit up, his/her head is protected no matter which way they fall because of the circle design.
• This is a perfect pillow for tummy time.
• The organic Hayden Pello is washable and made of 100% organic cotton fabrics.
• The two handles make it easy to take anywhere, anytime. Just fold it in half like a taco and go!

Leaf Therapeutic

Prize: Leaf Skin Therapy Lotion

Leaf Skin Therapy Lotion was developed by a mom who used ingredients that are hydrating and healing for damaged skin, without using toxic preservatives. Leaf Skin Therapy Lotion uses natural and safe (and expensive!) fermented radish root and goldenseal extract. It is safe enough to use on babies and although this lotion was specially designed for people with eczema and other dry skin conditions, it works great on normal skin, too! Best of all, it has an extremely low toxicity rating on the Environmental Working Group website. If you are looking for an ultra-hydrating, hypoallergenic, unscented lotion, this is the lotion for you! Award Details

Buttons Diapers

Prize: 1 diaper cover and 3 microfiber daytime inserts

Buttons Diapers make adorable cloth diapers in a wide range prints and solids, using a 2-in-1 system of cover and snap-in insert. They recently launched several new diaper cover prints and solid colors, including a darling fox print called "Sherwood", a striking navy blue "Ahoy", and "Sunshine" yellow. Buttons' day time and night time inserts snap into these covers for a universal fit for babies 6 to 35 lbs. Award Details

Liliputi

Prize: Liliputi 3-in-1 Babywearing and Maternity Mama Coat

The Liliputi Babywearing and Maternity Mama Coat is trendy and practical, especially for easily keeping your baby cozy during the colder months. You can wear it without a baby or with the babywearing insert for front and also back carry. With an extra pregnancy insert you can also use it while you are expecting your little one providing with warmth and protection from the very beginning. The SoftShell fabric resists moisture and provides effective breath-ability and windproof protection. It's comfortable, convenient and pretty in any case. Its sleek design is sporty and elegant at the same time, therefore the coat it's ideal for all occasions. Its vibrant colors lighten up the darkest winter. The Liliputi Mama Coat matches all the style lines of the Liliputi carriers and bags collections, but it does not really matter which carrier you pick, it is bound to work. Award Details

Sudsy Dough

Prize: 2 tubs of Sudsy Dough moldable bath soap, 12 ounces each

Sudsy Dough is a interactive bath toy that doubles as a moldable scented dough and a cleansing sensory soap! Sudsy Dough was created by a mom to make bath time fun for her own daughter. Kids can squeeze and squish Sudsy Dough in the bath, rub it on as a cleansing body wash, or take it outside the tub and make custom shapes that will dry into soaps. Each ball also has a surprise bath toy hidden inside! Award Details

BabeeTalk

Prize: Pink Eco-Teether Crib Rail Cover & Toys

BabeeTalk's Eco-Teether Crib Rail Cover helps prevent baby from chewing on the crib rail and features a classic design that accents any nursery style. The exclusive, patented design was created by a mom of three for well-informed, eco-chic parents and chew happy babies looking for a safe, comforting way to teethe. Award Details

Sigikid

Prize: sigikid Organic Sheep Rattle

sigikid's soft grasp sheep rattle encourages babies to grab things and explore the world around them. It's easily grasped by little hands and the soft rattling sound inside is perfect for sensory play. Made of organic cotton and filled with lambswool, this sweet rattle is great for all babies, even those with sensitive skin! The soft material is machine washable and hand-sewn together for long-lasting cuddling. Award Details

Enter to win these great prizes!

This contest is sponsored by Mommy Scene and is open to US entries. One winner will be chosen and displayed on the giveaway widget after the contest ends on Nov. 18th, 2015. Mommy Scene and participating blogs are not responsible for fulfilling brand sponsored prizes. Prizes will be shipped directly from each brand. Mixed Bag Mama was not compensated for this post. This giveaway is not affiliated with any social media platform.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

This Week in Photos-11/4

            Hey folks! As you can probably guess, we had a busy weekend with Halloween and all. Let's cut right to the chase this week with the highlights!

            Thursday, not only did we host a Halloween craft playdate at the park, we got to go trick-or-treating at the local retirement home (which I loved because I love seeing elderly people happy :) ) and the library. Myka was dressed up as this cute little ladybug that night. The retirement home even handed out small pumpkins for all the kids! I also had to include the picture of her pumpkin from the library because I was impressed. I told her to make a pumpkin face and she did!
            Friday night was kind of a bust. We had planned on visiting the YMCA for their trick-or-treating, but there was a long line out the door and cars parked all the way to the highway. O.o So we stopped at the Walmart next door and she got a couple of late birthday/Halloween presents, including this dress up dress. She's been wearing it constantly (except for sleeping) since then, so she went as the chick from Brave (I've never actually seen that :/) on Saturday. Look at all that candy!

            I also got to work on some projects a little this weekend, which always makes me happy. In case you haven't noticed, Being Productive=Feeling Happy for me. lol We got some of our wood crafts shellacked that we plan on adding to our Etsy store. I've got one of the garden signs pictured above and some natural wood drink coasters. I even got around to starting some nursing pads for when baby sister gets here! Speaking of baby, John even put the crib together Sunday because I'm a little OCD about being prepared. (I still have 10 weeks left!)

            Since we didn't get to enjoy our fire long Friday night because of coyotes, we enjoyed a small one Sunday evening. I'm glad we were outside because look at that sunset! We've had a lot of beautiful sunsets lately. (When it's not rainy and gloomy!) I have no clue what kind of bush this is, but it's been red for like a month, at least. O.o That's about it's only redeeming factor. lol

            Thanks for stopping by! I hope you had a fun Halloween. Now to start planning those delicious Thanksgiving meals!

 

Enjoying Tea Giveaway

Enjoying Tea Giveaway!

One Lucky Winner will receive one Enjoying Tea Porcelain Mug & Your Choice of Tea.

"The Torment of Rachel Ames" Book Review

             Hey folks! I have an exciting new psychological thriller from Jeff Gunhus to share with you today! If you've not read my previous book reviews of his adult novels (he also writes a middle grade series for kids), be sure to do so on my book reviews page. If you enjoy reading Dean Koontz, then you are in for a treat!

            In The Torment of Rachel Ames, we find Rachel, a down-on-her-luck writer, driving to a remote cabin to take a break from humanity and get re-inspired. Once arriving at the cabin, however, she discovers it's not as remote as she had hoped when she meets the strange old man who lives in the shack across the lake behind her rental place, not to mention her seemingly nosy, yet good looking, landlord who keeps “checking up” on her daily and bringing her groceries.

             As per any Jeff Gunhus story, other strange things start happening soon too: odd looking black birds and wolves come barging up to and in her cabin, trying to attack her, she meets a man sweeping leaves on a trail in the woods, and, most peculiar of all, she finds a door hidden inside a wall of her cabin...But Rachel really starts to think she's going crazy when the wall is magically repaired the next morning after discovering it, the door hidden away inside the wall again.

             As more events quickly unfold, Rachel knows deep down that she should just leave the place as soon as possible and never look back. As usual, curiosity gets the best of her, though, and she has to find out what's going on at the cabin or if she really is going crazy.

             Being a novella, you easily get sucked into the story right away. Plus all Jeff Gunhus novels are good at that regardless of how lengthy or short they are. ;) I liked that this was a little different from his previous books in that it's more of a psychological thriller rather than a supernatural one. It's pretty obvious that Rachel has some kind of mental issues going on throughout the story, but it's probably not what you expect. Who doesn't like unpredictable endings?

             The only thing I didn't like about this novella is that it is so short! (I know, I know. That's why it's called a novella.) I definitely could have read more of this, though I don't feel the story left anything important out. This was originally written as a screenplay and while I loved reading it, I hope one day Mr.Gunhus decides to sell the rights to having it made into a movie after all because it would make an excellent one!

             The Torment of Rachel Ames will be available for purchase on Amazon on November 10^th. You can click on the link above to pre-order your own copy now. Head over to Goodreads for a chance to WIN a copy. Also be sure to show the author some love on his Facebook page.

Del Sol Color Change Shirts Giveaway

Welcome to the Del Sol Color Change Giveaway!

 

Hosted by: Thoughts and Reviews Co-hosted by: Sunshine Girl Blog Sponsored by: Del Sol Color Change

One lucky person will win TWO Del Sol Color Change Disney/Marvel Shirts.

The winner will choose the shirts that they want from Del Sol's Disney and/or Marvel line. You can choose from women's, men's, kid's (boys/girls) shirts and whatever sizes you want. They have all sorts of shirts - tanks, regular t-shirts, long-sleeves. 

Del Sol Color Change shirts change color when they are in the sun. And then when you move out of the sun, they return to the original color and design. So, I'm sure you're wondering how it works... It's magic! Seriously, it's the magic of Del Sol's proprietary Spectrachrome Technology. Spectrachrome crystals reveal their hidden colors when exposed to sunlight.

Thoughts and Reviews received the two shirts in the picture above. You can read the full review here.

Del Sol is headquartered in Sandy, Utah, Del Sol was established in 1994 and has since grown to more than 100 stores worldwide in 25 countries. Through humanitarian efforts, Del Sol has donated more than a million dollars worth of product and aid to victims around the world.

The giveaway is open to United States residents that are 18+.

The Del Sol Color Change Disney/Marvel giveaway will end November 16th.

Good luck!

Entry-Form

Disclosure: This blog was not compensated for this post and is not responsible for shipment of prizes. Del Sol will handle the delivery of the shirts. The winner will be emailed after the giveaway ends. If no response is received within 24 hours, a new winner will be selected. This giveaway is not associated with Facebook, Twitter, or any other social media.