Hot Wheels RC Nitro Speeders Review & Giveaway

We recently received this cool little Hot Wheels car in the mail to review on our blog and to host a giveaway for.  Since it's more a "boy" toy than for girls - I let the men of the house review it for me.  My uber tech Lover definitely broke it down nicely and thoroughly so enjoy his guest post today in a review!

Introducing Larry My Lover and his review of the Hot Wheels RC Nitro Speeders Mustang GT:

Gentle Reader, submitted for your approval today is my review of a Hot Wheels RC Nitro Speeder, Ford Mustang GT version.

Package Contents:

    The RC (as in REMOTE, NOT "Radio" Controlled) Car itself

    A combo Controller, Toy Car Charger/Storage Unit

    Instruction Leaflet

Is it COOL?  Yes.  Very.  YES!  It's amazingly tiny.  Micro engineering.  Very, VERY cool!

Is it "fun"?  Well, the newly-4-year-old thinks so.  But that's mostly due to the novelty.  It'll get old in the not-so-distant future, even for him.  Overall, sadly, no.  It's not (really) proportional, control-wise, and with a top speed of "600 miles-per-hour" (scaled from it's true speed of about 8 MPH), it's FAST, but nearly impossible to control.  I've read/seen it being used in a plastic track setup, but for that, why bother with the pretense/illusion of "control(er)"?  Just be honest and kick it ol' school with a simple On/Off switch and let-'er-go!

It's also not truly as cool as it could, let alone should, be.  It's manufactured for Mattel by the Jetta Company, LTD, home offices in Hong Kong.  It's manufactured cheap in China, and it shows.  The car itself, not so much.  (After all, there's literally nothing much to it.)  But the controller!  For example, it takes 4 AA batteries, 2 along one end, two along the other; in between each set of two is a (needless to my mind) plastic separator piece that is so loose and so flimsy.  My review unit arrived with one nearly snapped just from shipping, apparently.

Reasons why I, personally, wouldn't have let it get out of R&D (without refinement):

    1. One needs a small Phillips head screwdriver to insert/replace the batteries.

    2. The recharger lead in the controller can't be attached to the car whilst having the car left in it's storage compartment; it forces one to leave it dangling like a harpooned whale.

    3. The packaging is as frustrating as it is dangerous - to both car and potential owner; I nearly broke the car trying to unwedge it from its transparent plastic entombment!

Otherwise, from a technological perspective, it's not as "new" as much as it's... just... plain... COOL!  (But, I am an unabashed sucker for miniature!)  The 1-5/8" long car has packed inside 2 (TWO!) transverse-mounted electric motors geared to the rear tires, receiver/motor-control circuit board - with the black-epoxy-sealed custom chip "glued" to the tiny green circuit board, it looks just like a digital watch from the 80's... no, mom, I never took mine apart, HONEST! - and a 3.7v, 40mAh Lithium-ion Polymer battery.

In the immortal words of Adam Sandler: not too shabby!

How long will the car's internal battery last?  I don't know.  Honestly I don't care: the fun dies long before that wonder of modern electronics+chemistry would!  Also, as hinted to above, this isn't a RADIO-controlled car, it's a REMOTE-controlled car, controlled via infrared signals.  Yes, Virgina, in order to receive your commands, you need line-of-site between the controller and the car.  Line-of-site to a car going (at scale) 600 Miles-Per-Hour!  Yeah, even for an ADD coked-out tween, that'd be just a wee bit much!  (And it is.  Or so I hear.)  In all fairness, the IR emitters are seemingly quite powerful, as the car seems to receive even when it "shouldn't".  Note that even the instructions warn that other IR sources, such as TV remotes, can interfere with proper operation.

Oh, nearly forgot: the controller has adjustment buttons to correct the car's steering to make it truly straight.  Shya, as if that'd help!

Tragically, Mattel (nor Hot Wheels directly) doesn't have any documentation on its website for this toy.  Even though the "documentation" provided has a 2011 copyright and shows "service.Mattel.com".  Hot Wheels has slow-to-load obnoxious Flash animations with this very same model, but nary a word under "support" or "information" anywhere.  (Their shopping site, however, WILL be glad to sell you one!)

This little gem MSPR's at about $28, and there seems to be a pricing conspiracy that makes it about this no matter where one tries to purchase.  For the opportunity to not-quite-drive the smallest, fastest (at scale) "RC" car on the planet!  Really, I'd recommend using it as a teeny, tiny robotics platform.  Sure, it wouldn't be any more controllable, but at least it'd be COOLER!

Now, for the Giveaway part of this post: 

ENDS SEPTEMBER 7th at MIDNIGHT

Open to US Residents Only 

All entry comments must include email address. 

New comment for each entry please. 

MANDATORY ENTRY:

Worth 1 entry
Leave a comment about Larry's first blog post.  Do you think he did a good job for a newbie? 

Additional Entries: 

Worth 1 entry each:

(2) Like Hot Wheels on Facebook

(3) Like You Brew My Tea on Facebook

(4) Follow You Brew My Tea on Twitter

(5) Follow You Brew My Tea on Google Friend Connect (GFC) 

Worth 5 entries each:

(6) Tweet about this post

(7) Share this post on Facebook

GOOD LUCK!

**I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I received the item mentioned above in exchange for my objective review.  All opinions and views expressed are mine (and my lover and sons - hehe) only.**

Just Be Happy It's Not Abuse

I have pondered writing this post for some time now. I know so many of my Christian friends, family and readers probably won't be in agreement with me on this. But I feel strongly it's something that needs to be said.

I accept homosexual relationships and in most cases have no problem with them.

Whether or not it's Biblically correct or okay in God's eyes is irrelevant in this post. I am not here to argue scripture or doctrine and theology. My views on scripture are most likely the same as most Christians are.  I am simply using this forum to state a plain fact of life. And, although I'm not in a homosexual relationship, it pertains to me also.

If I go back in time 2 years, I would find myself in a miserable and abusive marriage. I was going nowhere fast and making bad decisions every day. The worst of which was to stay in that marriage because it was "right in God's eyes". I had read scripture after scripture and book after book about not losing my marriage. Conferences and seminars about rebuilding trust and forgiving anything in marriage because it's a covenant not to be broken. I dreamed that I would be able to be obedient to God enough that miracles would happen and my husband would change and our marriage would be complete/whole/normal.

I was wrong. I stayed for 4 long and mostly miserable years based on the principle that marriage was a covenant with God that I couldn't break without horrid consequences. Once I was free and apart from that marriage, I realized how wrong so many of my thoughts and ideas had been. Sure, God wants marriage to be between one man and one woman, but, he also loves us more than we know, and wants us okay, happy, healthy and thriving. I honestly don't think God wanted me in it in the first place, nor would he have felt I need to stay in that just because I said vows. MY God is one of love. MY God is forgiving. MY God loves and wants his children happy, safe, healthy and thriving. Not miserable and beaten down. If miserable and beaten down is the only way I would be within the confines of THAT marriage, God didn't want me married any more. 

For me, I look at many of my homosexual friends and acquaintances and I refuse to judge them for their choices.  Because they are happy, being loved, and cared for.  Some, have even been in heterosexual relationships similar to my own marriage.  Abusive, debilitating, derogatory and miserable.  If they found peace, joy and happiness with another man/woman and are thriving and growing, I'd much rather them be in a homosexual relationship than in a heterosexual relationship that's abusive. 

I know there is much to be said in scripture...I know I am opening a can of worms here, and thus won't be allowing comments on this post.  This is not a post to be argued.  This is not a post to blast the homosexual lifestyle or quote scripture on why it is wrong.  There are plenty of venues out there for that. 

This post, is simply me saying, I understand.  I love and support my friends.  And honestly, I can do those things and still not always be in agreement with their choices.  But, having been in a bad relationship, I know that a good relationship - no matter with the same sex or opposite sex is something I'd much rather have for any of my friends and family than the abusive relationship that it could be. 

There are a handful of people in my life that understand my current status and relationship for what it is.  I have been judged and talked bad about and misunderstood.  But my Daddy, a man who is moral and strong in his scriptural and Biblical interpretation to the core of his body, understands.  

My Lover and I, are not married legally in the eyes of the sate or government.  There are many, many reasons, that are frankly, no body's business.  But we live as a couple, happy, loving, thriving.  We share each others burdens.  We share our home.  We share our lives and we are raising my son together as a team.  Will we ever sign that paper and file it in the county courthouse?  Perhaps.  Perhaps not. All that matters to either of us at this point is our commitment to each other.  

My family, who, would never have approved of such a situation before, has gained understanding over the last few years.  Do they approve of our "living together" without that legality?  No.  In essence they don't.  But they understand.  And as has been said many times, they would rather I live like this forever, than to go back to where I was before. 

Can't we apply the same factor to our gay and lesbian friends/family/acquaintances?  Why can't we, love them, pray for them and encourage them, yet accept and be thankful, that at least, they aren't being hurt and abused today? 

PreFense Hand Sanitizer WINNER!

***CONGRATULATIONS***

WE HAVE A WINNER!!!!

Chosen by Random.org - #18 is our winner!

Ro @romapr09 has won our PreFense Hand Sanitizer Giveaway!

Enjoy!

Thanks to all who entered!

Manna Bread Review & Giveaway

I am so excited to share this review with you!  I am definitely interested in trying healthier and different foods and Manna Bread fits both bills perfectly.  The breads are made solely from grains and fruits and are very dense and natural.  Not only are they healthier for you, they are great to eat too!

All Manna Organic Breads are made from sprouted grains, nuts and fruits and have  no additional sweeteners other than the natural sweetness from the fruits and grains.  The breads are a much denser variety than other whole grain or sweet breads that you would purchase off the shelf, but the flavor is wonderful.  They are good for you, reasonably priced and a great organic company to purchase from. 

I received a box that held 4 loafs of bread.  Cinnamon Date (my favorite), Carrot Raisin, Millet Rice and their Bavarian Sourdough.   We tried the carrot raisin bread first and loved the flavor.  I did find that I couldn't eat more than a very small piece as it was VERY dense and high in fiber content.  After nibbling on the second piece, I had to stop because I just felt full. I declared right then it would be a great breakfast bread to have with some turkey bacon and fruit.  It's high fiber content and density certainly made me feel full much quicker than traditional breads.  

The Cinnamon Date bread was wonderful as well, and I would recommend it being eaten with a small smear of fat free cream cheese.  It definitely reminded me in flavor of my favorite Cinnamon Swirl breads and bagels.  The Millet Rice had similar texture and the most "bland" flavor of all the breads, but was still tasty.  Again, a little goes a long way with these breads.  The Bavarian Sourdough had a nice flavor, but the density was hard for me to eat in a sandwich.  I'm not sure I would use it as a sandwich bread as suggested in the future,but I did find the flavor a nice compliment to an Italian dish we had.  The oregano and tomato sauce mixture alongside it was a great flavor combination. 

Overall, I really enjoyed the flavor and quality of these breads.  I wasn't sure what to expect in an unleavened bread and I wasn't disappointed.  I definitely found the fruit/sweet breads more appealing, but the other breads I was given were nice as well.  My Love didn't care for the density and texture as much as I did, but he did love the flavors.  I give them 4 stars! 

Manna Organic Breads has generously offered to give one of You Brew My Tea's readers a box of breads identical to the one I received!  The winner will receive a box that includes one loaf each of: Cinnamon Date, Carrot Raisin, Millet Rice and Bavarian Sourdough.  This box is valued at $25

MANDATORY ENTRY

Go to Manna Organics website and find one product not mentioned that you would like to try.  Come back here and leave me a comment telling me about it. 

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES:

The following 5 entries are worth 1 entry each:

(1)Like Manna Organics on Facebook

(2)Follow Manna Organics on Twitter

(3)Like You Brew My Tea on Facebook

(4)Follow You Brew My Tea on Twitter

(5)Follow You Brew My Tea on GFC (Google Friend Connect)

 The Following 3 entries are worth 5 entries each:

(6)Leave a comment on Manna Organics Facebook Page telling them 

You Brew My Tea Sent You 

(7)Share this Post on Facebook

(8)Tweet about this Post

Giveaway Ends September 2nd at Midnight

**I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I received the items listed in exchange for my honest review of the products. **

PSORENT Topical Psoriasis Treatment Review

I recently received a small bottle of Psorent Topical Psoriasis Treatment to review.  I have had problems off and on for years with mild psoriasis, and unfortunately my oldest son does as well.  We have both tried several treatments and have managed to keep it under control, but when I saw the opportunity to try something new, I jumped at it.  

Over the course of the last few weeks, I have applied as needed and directed to a patch on my arm.  I was really pleased with the results of this product.  Although I wouldn't say it is better than the prescription medications I have tried in the past, it is at least comparable to them and much better than any other over the counter lotion/cream/solution I have purchased.  

At the low price of $19.95 for a 3.4oz. bottle, I will definitely consider purchasing PSORENT rather than other over the counter medications to treat psoriasis.  This bottle could last up to 90 days for the average psoriasis sufferer.  Compared to $30-$40 for a 30 day treatment of prescription medication, this is a steal that truly does the job. 

Check out Neostrata Company for many other skin creams, anti aging products and treatments that are quality, control group tested and reasonably priced. 

**I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I received a bottle of PSORENT topical solution in exchange for my review.  All thoughts and opinions in this review are mine alone.**

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.

Is Meditation Okay For Christians?

A few weeks ago, I did a review of My Comfort Crosses.  The literature and website for these beautiful crosses mentioned how they could be used in prayer and meditation.  I personally have placed mine in a corner of my office as a part of my decor.  I have a little corner with several crosses in different designs.  It's a great reminder of Christ sacrifice.  

I guess, in a way, I didn't feel like I needed an "aid" to help me meditate, but I truly appreciated the thought and design behind it.  However, after receiving that, I found that I was thinking a lot about meditation.  I've been around many Christians who felt that meditation wasn't something we should do.  That reflecting within ourselves was "new age" or not Christ like.  

I guess I had a moment of, "how do I feel about this" over the last few days.  I even read a few articles online about meditation and how it benefits us as individuals in our daily life.   I read scripture.  I prayed.  I meditated on meditation.  

I see no problem with Christians meditating on things within their life.  I love the idea of dwelling or meditating on scriptures to help us learn them, as well as let them seep in to do more good in our lives.  In essence, meditation is simply focusing our minds on something good.  If we as believers choose to make that focus be upon God, scripture and his will for our lives, then I have no problem with meditation. 

Although some would argue, a lot of our lives as Christians are about appearances.  It's a sad thing that we have become so focused on what others are or are not doing in their lives.  We tend to be under microscopes.  Believers and non believers alike.  I guess, knowing that is what made me stop and think about how I truly felt about the practice of meditation. 

Now I think it's time for me to go meditate on some Psalms.  Going back to school has given me plenty to be restless about and some time in the Word is the best place to go!

 

Billy Graham In Quotes - Book Sneeze Review

Yet again, the team at Book Sneeze has chosen a great book to be reviewed.  I was very excited to see this book on the list last month as a choice for me to review.  Billy Graham in Quotes was written and developed by Franklin Graham (his son) with help from Donna Lee Toney. 

This book is very simple a book full of quotes by the late Reverend Billy Graham.  It covers everything from freedom of speech, abortion, worry, marriage, love, Salvation, the Resurrection and even preaching in general.  It's an excellent compilation of his greatest thoughts and words on subjects that trouble or concern almost every Christian at some point or another. 

The team at Thomas Nelson once again outdid themselves in the beautiful cover and quality of this book.  As a paperback, it is surprisingly good quality and would be a beautiful gift book for someone in your life having a tough time, or simply a fan of the Rev. Billy Graham.  I plan on giving my copy to my grandfather who is a big fan of Rev. Graham and his ministry. 

I give this book 5 stars and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good book to give as a gift or as a resource for encouragement when struggling with tough decisions and times.  Rev. Grahams quotes are almost all completely rooted in scripture as well, so you are sure to be encouraged emotionally as well as spiritually. 

**I received this book in exchange for my review.  I received no monetary compensation from Thomas Nelson or Book Sneeze program.  All of the opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are mine alone. **

Things I've Learned About Business While Blogging

Over the last few years, I have blogged about all kinds of things.  I've had a strictly spiritual journey blog that involved lots of posts about my personal struggles and how God led me, helped me or moved me forward in my life.  I've had a health and fitness blog with recipes and exercise tips and weight loss suggestions.  I've had a blog that was totally random and personal and merely there to help me get through really tough days.  And this blog which is a little of all of the above.

You Brew My Tea is a blog that has no specific focus.  I have a hard time labeling it when I sign up for various things and they ask what "type" of blog I have.  It's been one for reviews of all kinds of products and books.  It's been a blog about my life, struggles, joys and triumphs.  It's been one I have shared recipes and menu plans and coupon suggestions on.

But how to market my blog has been a big question.  And then, as I have begun reviewing more and more products, I am stumbling upon items that I have never heard of.  Items that I have never seen advertised and I wonder how to advertise better and with more success. What can we as business owners or bloggers or authors or companies do to get the word out better and easier on the Internet.





I know several of my favorite companies that I have reviewed for started in basements or garages.  Budgets were tight and they needed help in getting the word out.  Companies like Jasmine Directory are great to help business get an edge in a competitive world.  It's very simple to sign up and have your business web page added to their directory.  They are 100% SEO friendly and are very easy to navigate as you go through the start up process.

Whether you have a large company that you want a little more "name out there" for or a small business just starting out, it looks like they have a lot to offer to help you out.  I will definitely be looking into publishing my website with them as soon as I get my domain in order and my website setup a little differently.  Without the use of web directories such as Jasmine Directory, you spend hours and days networking to try to boost your rank in web searches.  This website is there to help get that done for you.


I know that for me Google Page Rank, Alexa Page Rank and site hits is very important when it comes to availability of reviews and promotions I am eligible for.  Using something like this to get my name out further would be just the right thing for my blog or website. 

Honeycat Cosmetics Review

I stumbled upon Honeycat Cosmetics some months ago and was so excited when they sent me a message asking to send me a box of products to review.  The name itself is Sexy and Fun, but the products - Ooo La La! From the moment you open the website and hear the great music playing in the background and watch the video, you are hooked.  

Honeycat Cosmetics is a great place to get your friends, sisters, moms, or loved ones of any kind a special treat to pamper themselves with.  They carry a great line of bath and body products that are Sexy, Fun and delicious!  Their products are natural and never tested on animals and are preservative free so they are safe for your body! 

As their website says, Honeycat cosmetics is a line of body products that is sure to make you Purr in appreciation!  I know I certainly did!

I received a box with 4 items to test out.  I smiled when I saw the packing tape on the ordinary brown shipping box.  It was black and pink animal print.  As I opened the package, I found animal print tissue paper and pink packing peanuts housing my products!  They go all the way with your products.  Not only are the items themselves packaged sleek and sexy just like a feline, their shipping containers are too!  Now that's what I call a quality company to buy from! The packaging is cute, sleek and feminine with the iconic Honeycat black and pink theme carried throughout each product as well as their company brochure.  For me, it was love at first sight!

I was given a Honeycat Whisker Slickers "I'm In Heat" Warming Cinnamon Lip Balm, a bottle of Sweet Potato Pie Bubble Stuff, a cute tin containing "Chick of the Sea" Foaming Bath Crystals and a Vanilla Cream Grooming Bar.  I had just taken a shower, but it made me want to jump right back in the bath to test out all these yummy products! 

The easiest and quickest thing for me to try was the Whisker Slickers and I admit, I opened the package immediately.  I wasn't disappointed.  This simple tube of lip balm was long lasting, soft and had a mild cinnamon flavor that left a little tingle on my lips.  Definitely a new staple item in my makeup bag and purse!  The next day I opened up my Grooming Bar and of course immediately loved the warm vanilla scent wafting from the package.  I have long since been a fan of rich vanillas and this didn't disappoint.  I found it lathered beautifully, moisturized well and rinsed off leaving a clean feeling to my skin with a hint of vanilla scent behind.  Again, a product I won't hesitate to grab a few more bars of to have on hand.  I also tried the Sweet Potato Pie Bubble Stuff and was in love with the rich scent, the nice foaming bubbles and the entire experience.  All of the Honeycat products thus far have left me with a moisturized yet clean feeling.  That is something that is difficult to find.  All too often, moisturizing products leave a film or residue.  I found that Honeycat most definitely did not.  I haven't tried the tin of bath crystals yet.  I decided to save those for a special occasion, but I know I won't be disappointed when I do settle into a warm bath and pour them in.  I know I will be purring just like the label says!

I will definitely be going back to Honeycat Cosmetics to purchase more of the products I was sent for review, but also to grab up a few of their gift baskets for Christmas and birthday gifts in the future.  My teenage step daughter will LOVE the bath salts and the foot scrub.  And my Sister will enjoy the body powders and butters.  (Did I mention they have an edible banana flavored body powder?  Oh yes!!!  Check it out!)

Honeycat Cosmetics is definitely a great place to go when you need to find a gift for that special someone.  It's one of those companies that I think should be listed on the best places to get an Anniversary, Mothers Day or birthday gift for the woman in our life.  

**I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I received products in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts, opinions and ideas are my own. **

My Comfort Cross Winners!

Congratulations to our TWO (2) WINNERS!

MY COMFORT CROSS

Chosen By Random.org 

# 110 -  Amanda

and 

#50 - Gerri

Congratulations Ladies! 

Pre-Fense Hand Sanitizer Review & Giveaway

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

Admittedly, when I first heard about Prefense, I was skeptical.  A hand sanitizer that kills germs for up to 24 hours?  How?  

Prefense is a different type of hand sanitizer that is silicone based.  Unlike most common hand sanitizers, this one does not contain alcohol which can be very drying and cause skin irritations with excessive use.  

According to the website, Prefense is:"Silica complex, AMOSILQ, adheres to skin for 24 hours offering proactive antibacterial barrier wet or dry."

By using one spare each day (or more as needed) you are protected for up to 10 hand washings.  The silica based sanitizer adheres to your skin and helps provide a "glove" of protection. I found that the sanitizer was convenient and clean in a purse sized pump.  It doesn't leave my hands dry like most sanitizers do, and although it has no distinct scent, I found that it left my hands smelling and feeling clean.  

Prefense is available in a 1.5 oz. bottle like I received in exchange for my review, as well as an 8 oz. pump or in sanitizing wipes.  The website also sports a refill container that is good for several uses.  As their information stated, one use per day for one individual, could easily make their 8oz. pump last up to 2 years! They also just recently released (on their website) a great new combo pack! 

Prefense products are also readily available at Amazon.com and are eligible for Super Saver Shipping!

Prefense has generously agreed to give one of You Brew My Tea's readers an 8oz. pump of Prefense Hand Sanitizer!  I am so excited about this giveaway.  Especially with the back to school season now here in full swing.  This will be a great addition to any kids backpack or in the car for those unplanned stops at the drive thru.  You can never be too careful with your kids health!

MANDATORY ENTRY:

Leave a comment on this post.  

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES: 

(1) Follow Prefense on Twitter

(2) Like Prefense on Facebook

(3) Follow You Brew My Tea on Google Friend Connect

(4) Follow You Brew My Tea on Twitter

(5) Like You Brew My Tea on Facebook

(6)  Tweet about this post - WORTH 5 ENTRIES

(7) Post on Prefense Facebook Wall that You Brew My Tea sent you - WORTH 5 ENTRIES

GIVEAWAY IS  OPEN TO USA

ENDS:

FRIDAY AUGUST 26th at MIDNIGHT

GOOD LUCK!

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.

I see Hearts

I have often wondered why God couldn't have just put me in a different place at times.  I've asked over and over again why he put ME where he did.  Why did I have to be the one to fall for that man?  Why did I have to be the one who felt so alone?  Why did I have to be in this or that situation?  Why didn't he give me the strength and ability to escape sooner? 

The same train of thought is what we all often have when we think of bad things in the world.  Why doesn't God change them?  Why doesn't God stop bad things before they happen?

I don't know.  And honestly, I don't want to know God's reasoning some times.  Yes, honestly, I get angry at God for the choices he makes.  There has been so much pain and heartache.  So much.  I just wish it was easier.  But, I look back now, and I know I wouldn't appreciate what I have right now had I not went through what I did.  I would be a spoiled little brat right now had I not had to suffer in the past. 

I don't like who I was back then.  I don't like who I was in the midst of the battles and storms of the last several years of my life.  But I do like who I am becoming now.  I am understanding, and  I am compassionate.  I am much more loving, forgiving and reasonable about others choices.  I don't jump to judgment.  But I do tend to jump to love.  

Why did it have to happen to me?  

So I could help you.  So I could love whoever that wounded person is that crosses my path.  So I could look at others hearts - not their faces, their clothes, their status or their actions.  Hearts.  My eyes see the heart and soul now.  

Every day of pain and every struggle has been worth it.  

WINNER Best Pet Health Ear Cleansing Pads

***CONGRATULATIONS****

We have a winner for our bottle of Best Pet Health's Nutri Vet Cat Ear Cleansing Pads

Chosen by Random.org

#18

Congratulations to:

Danielle

Enjoy!

Family Illustrated Bible Review

I recently received a copy of The Family Illustrated Bible from New Leaf Publishing in exchange for my review.  As I have 2 young sons, I though this would be a fun thing to review, and also possibly use at church in the Pre-K Sunday School Class.  

The first thing I noticed when I opened the package, was how it is so much like the Family Bibles of old.  It is a nice sturdy, hardbound book in navy blue with all the classic Bible Stories illustrated in the old style drawings.  It is a great teaching Bible for younger kids or for a daily family devotional time.  It even has some historical notes in the front portion of the Bible that tell more about each of the covenants made with God's people. 

The Family Illustrated Bible is, I believe, a great addition to any family library.  It may not be your daily Bible to use for devotional study or reading, but it is a very cool resource to use in teaching your children or in home school Bible classes. 

***I did not receive monetary compensation for this review.  I received a copy of The Family Illustrated Bible from New Leaf Publishing in exchange for my review.  All thoughts and opinions expressed here are mine alone. ***

Himalayan Salt Lamp Giveaway WINNER!

****CONGRATULATIONS****

Thank you to all who entered to win!  We have our winner chosen via Random.Org

#124

 

@jenblizzard542

Congratulations!

**If the winner does not respond within 3 days, a new winner will be chosen and notified. 

Pieces of Light: A Dinah Harris Mystery by Julia Cave BOOK REVIEW

I recently received Pieces of Light: A Dinah Harris Mystery written by Julia Cave from New Leaf Publishing in exchange for my review.  As I always enjoy reading a good book, and have rarely found any I review to be bad, I was excited to pick this one up.  

The book is about Dinah Harris, a woman who has recently become a Christian and is trying to help solve the bombings of several churches.  It touches on her new life as a Christian and many of the decisions she struggles to make.  There are very relevant things within these pages regarding abuse, self esteem and those black/gray/white areas of being a Christian in today's world. 

For myself, I had a little bit of a tough time with some of the storyline as I had not read the previous 2 books about Dinah.  This is the 3rd and final book in the series, and I am one of those people who hates reading things out of sequence.  So, I would have preferred to have read the books in order to get a better feel/understanding for the character(s).  Also, although I agree with the idea behind much of the suggestive storyline, I felt it was a bit on the "preachy" side.  I am a conservative Christian, but I like my books to be a little less evangelical.  At times, it was a little "overpowering" and well, for me, annoying.  

I think that Ms. Cave is an excellent author in the truest form.  She pulls together great characters and has wonderful creative ideas and story lines.  This book in itself was a great read overall.  The story and the plot where exciting, suspenseful and very real.  My only complaint was the excessive evangelical tilt to the book.  It was definitely one that I wouldn't be able to recommend to my non believing friends.  They would think it too obviously preachy.  

I would give this book 5 stars for content and excellent writing skills, but overall a 3 1/2 due to the excessive evangelical overtones.  Overall, it is a good read and I will be looking into grabbing the other 2 books in the series so I can catch up to speed on all that has happened to Dinah in the past. 

**I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I received the book Pieces of Light by Julia Cave from New Leaf Publishing in exchange for my review.  All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

My Comfort Cross Review & Giveaway

I was recently contacted by the people at My Comfort Cross to do a review of one of their crosses and to host a giveaway.  I was excited about the prospect of receiving one of the hand carved crosses made of olive wood found near Bethlehem.  I was not disappointed when I received my package in the mail.  

First off, let me say, that the wood is smooth and beautiful and the craftsmanship in carving it is truly a work of art.  It's obviously not some cardboard cutout type you find mass produced in factories on assembly lines.  Each cross, although similar in design and style is unique.  The differences in the grains are beautiful and the obvious care taken to sculpt and whittle away the wood to make a reminder of Christs sacrifice is evident in every inch of the sturdy cross.  

My Comfort Cross was created because the owner of the company's own mother met and knew a man outside Bethlehem named Issa who had spent years carving beautiful religious items such as this cross from olive wood outside the city walls.  It was his way of supporting his family.  And now, My Comfort Cross is helping by opening up the roads online for him and other Christian artisans from Bethlehem to sell their creations not just to local tourists who visit him, but to anyone who has access to the Internet.  

I was very impressed with the quick shipping, nice packaging and of course, simply the quality and size of the product.  I was actually expecting something much smaller, but when I opened the nice little Burgundy velvet pouch the cross is kept in, I was shocked to see it was rather large.  It does fit in the palm of your hand still, but my smaller hands, it definitely takes up the whole palm.  It can be given as a gift, kept for yourself or given to a child.  They are commonly used as a meditation aid or prayer aid.  Something that will always remind you of Christs ultimate love and sacrifice on the cross for us.  

My Comfort Cross not only is helping assist people in the Holy Land be able to support their families, they are offering us the opportunity to purchase a very inexpensive yet meaningful gift for our loved ones and friends.  These are great as graduation, birthday, Christmas, Mother's Day, and even Baptismal gifts.  They are great for any occasion, and My Comfort Cross also has a fundraiser opportunity on their website so your church or Christian organization can purchase them in bulk and resell as well! 

They have also provided us with a special link for my readers to check out a current deal they have for a discounted price when purchasing 2 of the crosses.  Click here and check out the price they are running currently on the purchase of 2 of these beautiful handmade crosses.  The price of each cross individually is only $8 and that includes shipping via USPS. 

I plan on picking up several of them this year to have for Christmas gifts.  The beautiful olive wood coupled with the nice little pouch they come in is a great quick gift for an unexpected visitor.  They are definitely on my "best deals under $10" for Christmas gifts list!

My Comfort Cross has generously offered to giveaway not one but TWO (2) Crosses

Two Random Winners Will be Chosen!  Giveaway Ends August 18th at Midnight!

MANDATORY ENTRY:

Tell me what you would use the cross for.  A gift for someone else, or as an aid in your spiritual journey.

Additional Entries: 

(1) Go to My Comfort Cross Website and comment here with the scripture verse reference that is on their homepage.  

(2) Like My Comfort Cross on Facebook

(3) Leave a Comment on their Wall telling them You Brew My Tea Sent you There (worth 5 entries)

(4) Follow You Brew My Tea on Google Friend Connect

(5) Like You Brew My Tea on Facebook

(6) Follow You Brew My Tea on Twitter

(7) Share this Post on Facebook (worth 5 entries)

(8) Tweet this Post on Twitter (worth 5 entries)

Don't forget - this is for 2 WINNERS!  So you have 2 chances of winning this time! 

GOOD LUCK!

Crisis Over or Is it?

A few weekends ago, my family and I went for a weekend visit to Joplin, Missouri.  My Love use to live in that area and much of his family still does.  This was the first visit we had made since early this year.  So, it was indeed, the first time we had been to the area since the severe storms and tornadoes that damaged so much of the city back in May. 

I had only visited Joplin once before, but even with that brief glimpse of the city, I saw definite differences.  I was truly shocked at how different the entire city looked.  There was of course the damage that had been televised in those first few weeks after the tornadoes in May, but there was so much further and continuing damage. 

When we had visited in March, we stopped for a few minutes to let our son play at a city park that was just across the street from the hospital that saw the most damage.  The entire park was gone when we passed on our recent trip.  Not just messed up and damaged, but the entire park and city block leveled.  No trees, no playground equipment, no park benches, not even the restrooms remained.  It was gone.  You could see for miles beyond it.  The enormity of the events hit me personally in that moment.  Looking at where we had stood only months before and seeing how little was left in the bath of the storms was surreal. 

For my Love, driving us to his family's home by the long route through the city was actually quite difficult.  As many of us do, we often don't take note of street names.  We simply drive according to landmarks.  The Home Depot was destroyed and is now housed in a big white tent that reminds me of tent revivals from days of old.  Nearly every Walgreen's in the city had damage and now the pharmacy's are the only portion open, and those are housed in small single wide trailers on the edges of the original lot.  An entire Price Cutter grocery store is gone.  The Walmart that my Love frequented is simply no more.  That block and those surrounding it are rubble. 

But the physical damage is just a part of the destruction.  We as a society sent millions of dollars worth of aid and support to the community.  Food, clothing, diapers, all manner of items needed to survive have been sent to the residents affected.  So much so that many places are giving the excess to anyone who wants to take it, whether they are displaced and in need or not.  But what we don't see from afar are how many lives have truly been uprooted and devastated.  There are thousands of people and families who rented and no longer have a home OR a job to rent another one again.  So many lower income without renters insurance truly lost everything they had.  They no longer have a home, possessions or a job to provide new ones.  The economy in that city wasn't top notch in the first place, this destruction has affected them in a devastating way. 

Just because the initial crisis is over doesn't mean we can back off and go on about our lives.  Streets have been cleared off.  Buildings have been demolished and the debris removed, but rebuilding has only just begun.  While there, we heard a story of one gentlemen who was able to have insurance pay for a complete rebuild of his home in a nice neighborhood.  His home was going to be move in ready within a few short weeks now, but he had been told, that due to the severe destruction, he wouldn't have utilities available until late October.  How does it help to have a home to live in without the electric or running water to make it habitable?  

There is not a lot we as individuals can do at this point for the city.  Provisions have been made, although the need will be ongoing for money and resources.  But we can offer prayers, many prayers for those who have been affected.  The impact goes much further than a few trees blown over or houses destroyed.  It has been a life changing experience of monumental proportions for many. 

The Truth About Sex: A Sex Primer for the 21st Century - Book Review

I don't usually post adult themed things on my blog.  I do on occasion do reviews for a particular adult toy store (see box in my sidebar) but I try to keep things family oriented.  If you are offended by adult sexual subject matter, or are under the age of 18, then please feel free to leave the blog now and wait for another day to visit. 

That said, I recently received a book from Three Girls Media to review.  The Truth About Sex: A Sex Primer for the 21st Century written by Gloria G. Brame, Ph.D.  I wasn't really sure what I would be getting, but I was curious to see what new or different things Dr. Brame had to say about sexual health and how it affects us individually. 

First off, this is the first of what I understand to be 3 volumes Dr. Brame will be publishing regarding sexual health in today's society.  This first book deals solely with self knowledge and learning/enjoying your own sexual being.  It is a very honest and thorough book that does go into detail regarding self exploration, addictions and the truth about whether a healthy sex life (alone or with a partner) is good for you or not. 

I was impressed with the thorough research done by Dr. Brame, and although I come from a very conservative background, I will say she did a wonderful job of keeping the book clean and not overtly erotic or "smutty" as many would accuse such books to be.  It was a very educational volume that spoke mostly of how learning to stimulate and arouse ourselves helps us have a healthier sexual relationship with our partner.  She gave many examples of individuals who suffered from lack of arousal and those who felt they were aroused too often.  Dr. Brame was very specific in the types of behaviors she found to be "addictive" or "extreme" and had obviously done her research well. 

From a Conservative Christian standpoint, it was a nice read, an informative read and at times humorous.  (Did you know that Graham crackers were originally created to help aid people in curbing the desire for self exploration?)  I do have to say our ideas of proper relationship boundaries differ, but that is a difference that each individual has to explore within themselves.  I personally know that many Christians would probably disagree with much of what she said (especially comments regarding religious beliefs causing sexual grief and restriction that was destructive to many), but I for one think she is spot on in many ways. 

As an adult woman who has been in a few sexual relationship in her life, and came from a super conservative Christian home, I can definitely relate to some of the examples she wrote about in this book.  Although I believe that a sexual relationship between one man and one woman would ultimately be the most healthy and best way to go, I also know from experience that those situations are few and far between.  The guilt many Christians (myself included) carry with them over self exploration or multiple partners can truly harm a good/healthy/proper relationship with their spouse.  I believe that Dr. Brame was correct in stating we should let go of guilt and enjoy ourselves physically, but I would add that I believe that pleasure should ultimately be had between a man and woman in a committed relationship.  Random sexual partners simply for pleasure is not something that I feel is healthy in any way for a person.  Commitment, love and monogamy are the ideals I personally believe in.  But, the concept of self exploration to aid in such relationship is something I think is often condemned that should not be. 

Although I can't say that I condone all that Dr. Brame said, I did enjoy the book and think that it is worth reading and truly allowing some reflective time to sort how you view things sexually in yourself and in your relationship.  And, perhaps, give up some old misconceptions or embrace them with fervor once more.  I am looking forward to her further installments and what she has to say.  Who knows?  I might learn about another favorite snack item that was originally used for sexual health!  

You may find this book and others here, on Amazon.com and at other major retailers nationwide.  

**I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I was given this book by Three Girls Media in exchange for my review.  All thoughts and opinions are solely mine.**