What's the Bzz about Garnier Fructis?

As a part of Bzz Agent I occasionally receive an offer to review or participate in programs for new or revised products.  Recently I was sent an offer regarding Garnier Fructis Shampoo and Conditioner.  Having really long hair such as I do, I know all about wanting healthier and shinier hair so I was totally ready to give it a chance and test it out!

Garnier Fructis has long since been a brand I favored when buying shampoo and conditioner.  It may not be the most important, but if it smells good it already has one vote of confidence from me.  Garnier Fructis has ALWAYS had shampoo that smelled wonderfully.  The other factors that are important are that it doesn't dry my scalp out or strip my hair of natural oils to the point it loses it's shine.  And since long hair tends to take more time to blow dry, curl and style - I also want something that will protect and nourish it preventing it from having as many dry split ends.  

I received my full sized sample bottles of the Triple Nutrition formula of Garnier Fructis a couple of weeks ago.  Although I was pleased with my current shampoo and conditioner combo, I did decide to give this one a try almost immediately to see if it too provided me with the things I desire in hair care products.  

I was not disappointed with the formula at all.  Although I felt it was similar in smell to all the other Garnier Fructis products out there (no unique scent with this formula, but very pleasant), I was till pleased overall.  There is a difference between good and bad shampoos when you lather and rinse.  After rinsing you should be able to feel that "squeaky clean".  Many times in the past I have used shampoos that didn't leave me feeling like my hair was actually clean.  Triple Nutrition definitely made my hair feel and smell clean.  The Triple Nutrition conditioner wasn't too heavy and thus left my long hair tangle free and soft, yet not oily or too weighted down with product. 

I give the shampoo 5 stars in my book.  Considering the frequent coupons available in my newspaper and on my favorite coupon websites, this will definitely fall in my "good deal" category as well!  I look forward to having a good stockpile of this product in my cabinet in the future! 

**I was not monetarily compensated for this review.  I received the products listed above in exchange for my honest review.  Thanks to BzzAgent for the opportunity to use and review Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Shampoo and Conditioner!**

In Memory of My Papa

As much as you are prepared and expect it, and as much as you don't think it will affect you very much - you find yourself surprised when you too are clinging to someone unable to stop the crying at the death of a loved one.

After 85 years on this earth and 64 years married to my Granny, my Papa went to be with his Lord and Savior yesterday morning.  

The last few days and weeks of his life were torturous yet peaceful.  Unfortunately as his body began to shut down there was more pain for him physically.  That was something that although he had been bedridden for the last couple of years, he had not experienced prior to his recent illness.  Thankfully we were assisted by a wonderful team of doctors and nurses in the local hospice program who led him gently to the end by keeping his body comfortable, even if his mind was not fully aware.  I am ever thankful the choice was made for him to stay in their medical care until the end.  That way I know he was not hurting but peaceful and comforted when his time came.

I was never close to my grandfather.  I was in many ways thrown into caring for him because there was no one else who could.  Although I didn't not want to, it wasn't something I set out to do in my life nor would have chosen had there been other options.  What started out as awkward and a struggle eventually became routine.  The weekends I wasn't there with them, I worried and fretted they needed me.  And now, I look back and realize I got something, a gift, that not many people get in their life. 

I had the chance to see a man who had never really meant a lot to me (and please don't take that wrongly...I was just never around him much to get close like some kids are with grandparents) become someone I am heartbroken to lose.  I learned his likes and dislikes.  I saw him grouchy and yes, a little mean at times.  I saw him laugh, smirk and watched his eyes twinkle at an inside joke from time to time.  I watched as he became more withdrawn, sad and depressed.  I watched his eyes follow my Granny and the worry for her safety and well being obvious on his face.  I sat at his side and told him how angry I was that he just wouldn't listen to any of us and accept we knew better than he did this time.  I picked up the phone and called for the ambulance twice in one month because I knew he wasn't long for this earth and I couldn't ease his pain otherwise.  I made tough decisions, ones others didn't agree with and mocked me for, but I did it because I loved him.  Because this man who in many ways although my grandfather, had been a stranger until 7 months ago when I became his caregiver and in that time had become my friend.  I hated the pain he suffered and am so thankful that Hospice was there to intervene and help him go peacefully into the arms of Jesus.  

Just three short days ago, I sat by his side in the hospital after he had found out he had indeed suffered a pretty severe heart attack as I had first guessed when calling the ambulance to take him in.  I am blessed in so many ways that the last conversation I had with my Papa was one of love and forgiveness.  He in a weakened state wasn't saying much to anyone, but he called me to his side when I entered the room and asked me to listen.  He told me he was sorry he had doubted me, that I had been right and he was glad I had called them.  He said he knew he didn't have long, but he was glad I was there.  He said he was sorry and that he loved me.  

I can't begin to say what that short conversation meant to me.  I can always remember that my relationship with him ended on a good note, one in which he knew I did what I did because I loved him.  And one in which I knew he understood and loved me too. 

I may not ever say I can agree with a lot of choices he made through the years.  I won't lie and say I thought he was always wise in his decisions.  But I will always say a stronger man you would never meet.  A man with a better attitude about his situation you will never find.  I am blessed to have had the privilege of getting to know him, tolerate him, roll my eyes at him, laugh at and with him, get frustrated and angry with him and admire his strength all in turn these last months.  

My diabetic but brownie, pie, cake, cookie and anything full of sugar loving Papa is walking with the angels now..something he dreamed of doing!

William Tucker Lynch

February 16, 1927 - April 27, 2012   

 

Who Loves a Good Candle? Jaxx Candle Review

I am a HUGE candle fan.  I love the soft romantic light they offer at night when I am snuggled up next to my Love.  I love the fresh clean scent wafting throughout the house after a long day working.  I totally adore having them lined around the bath while I soak in a soothing bubble bath at night.  I am a candle girl!  

I have been known to throw a few dollars down on some of the "big name" candles in the past if they had a scent I loved or lasted exceptionally long, but I'm not opposed to grabbing a few cheaper $1 candles from a clearance rack either.  If they look nice and smell nice I won't hesitate to grab it.  Candles are one of the few indulgences I allow myself.  

Jaxx Candles is one of my new favorite places to grab a candle.  I was drawn to them when I found their website because so many of the candles are soy candles.  I LOVE soy candles.  I have had several soy candles that also doubled as massage candles.  :-)  Romantic mood lighting and a great massage?  Uh HUH!!!  Seriously though, I saw that Jaxx Candles had a passion for making candles in cool shapes, designs, colors and molds.  Often pouring candles into uniquely shaped molds rather than your typical every day pillar candle or votive.  (They do have a lot of those options too though!).  

I fell in love with the Butterfly Candle and was thrilled to have the chance to review it.  I have always thought that butterflies were delicate, beautiful and sensual in their own way and was excited to find my very own candle in the mailbox.  Although the candle was shipped in the midst of a bit of a heat wave in our area, I was impressed with how well it held up.  Not realizing we were about to have much warmer temperatures, I didn't request special shipping to prevent melting, but I wasn't disappointed.  There was just a slight bit of dimpling on the top of the candle from where it softened and took on the bubbles from the bubble wrapping.  Strangely enough, it added a cool look/texture to the top of the candle that reminded me a bit of the beeswax candles I've picked up in the past.  The strawberries and cream scent was rich but not overpowering and definitely strong enough to smell as it burned.  I love a candle I can pick up and smell, but smell throughout my house as it burns - yet not be overwhelmed with the scent either.  That is surprisingly hard to come by, but I think she hit the nail on the head with this one.  I LOVE this candle.  

Jaxx Candles is a great well stocked smaller shop that carries high quality and reasonably priced handmade candles for just about any occasion.  With each season the choices vary, but you will always be guaranteed to find something to suit your needs or desires.  Whether it be a handful of votive candles, melts for a warmer, or a large pillar candle to be used as a centerpiece you will surely find something in their Etsy shop or on their website that will tease your senses and make your home a more delightful place to be. 

Check out their great little graduation cap votive candles available now just in time to add to a gift basket for your favorite high school or college graduate!

Thanks to Jaxx Candles for the opportunity to review one of their awesome Butterfly candles!  

How bout a game of Good Cop/Bad Cop?

I know you've heard someone in your life talk about playing "good cop/bad cop".  How about playing dirty cop for the man in your life?  

Yes, I know some people may think it's risque or over the top but there is nothing quite like putting on a little costume and slapping the handcuffs on the man in your life.  I know...I know...not what you'd think of a conservative gal like myself?  Well, let's just say that the best love life starts with being relaxed and having fun with each other.  If you can put on a costume and make each other laugh your butts off, then you are off to a good start.  How can you enjoy intimacy with someone without being relaxed around them?  Dressing up in a beautiful dress and going out to dinner, wearing jeans and a t-shirt for a day at the park or putting on a fun and daring costume are all ways to let your guard down and show them a different side of yourself.

Costume Discounters has a TON of great costumes in a TON of varieties.  Their Sexy Costume section definitely has the more risque items that you would more likely wear at home just in front of your lover, but they also carry a great line of costumes for parties, Halloween and events.  Things like Lady Gaga look alike costumes, Betty Boop, Wonder Woman, Renaissance Winches, Pirates, GoGo Dancers and anything else you can imagine that would be a sexy or just plane ole fun costume to wear out at a party with your friends or for a special night in. 

Check out their Facebook page for great costume discounts and for great ideas on what you can wear to wow your friends at the next costume party you attend.  I received a Dirty Copy Costume from Costume Discounters in exchange for my review.  I was really impressed with the quality of the product.  This wasn't some flimsy little half plastic costume you can find at a discount store in the mall.  It was a high quality costume at dirt cheap prices that also fit really well.  Trust me - getting high quality inexpensive costumes in plus sizes is NOT easy. 

Thanks to Costume Discounters for the chance to check out their products and write a review on my blog! 

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.

A Vampire's Dominion

VMK Fewings has hit it out of the ballpark once again with her latest edition of The Stone Masters Vampire Series A Vampire's Dominion.  As a long time fan of books and movies about the underworld, I have gotten tired of the recent years rush of tween thrill seeking vampire sagas.  I loved the famous Twilight books and movies just like a lot of men and women, but I have longed for the depth that I had read before.  Even dating back to things like Interview with a Vampire where the eroticism and passion of the vampire life was presented as well as the depth of story line was so much richer.  I love fluff books, but I also adore fluff books that make you think. A Vampire's Dominion did just that. 

With a new twist on the possibilities of the underworlds life and death, VMK Fewings created a new creature/person, William, out of two of her most notorious characters.  Jaedon and Orpheus are cast into one form by accident and are suddenly fighting against each other in the same body. Having fought to their deaths, their loved ones tried to resurrect them and by accident their ashes were thrown together creating one new unique vampire that houses both of their memories, desires and pasts.  William finds himself cast into a strange realm of unknown and fear.  Wanting what both Jaedon and Orpheus wanted yet at the same time wanting something different and better. 

I loved the way she showed the vulnerability of William and his dealings with those who had been lovers and subordinates of Jaedon and Orpheus.  VMK Fewings managed to take two very dominant vampires and meld them into one that both of their equally different circles could love and desire.  That takes talent and imagination!  The underlying plot of how to separate him back into the two vampires within and the circle of The Stone Masters and The Sovereign groups individually was thorough yet not too much to overshadow the goings on of Williams internal struggle of whether he should stay as he is or change back to what he was before. 

It has been a long time since I have read a Vampire/underworld book I enjoyed as much.  Not only did it have passion and a bit of eroticism that comes from the Gothic and vampire world, but it had well formed characters with unique and new personalities.  I was impressed with the storyline and how easily she pulled it all together into a culmination that both surprised and satisfied the reader. This book easily gets 5 stars in my opinion and I will definitely be looking for the other books in her series about The Stone Masters!

Lucky you!  VMK Fewings has shared an additional copy of this book with me to give away to one of You Brew My Tea's readers!  Check out the Rafflecopter form below for quick and easy ways to enter to win! 

Got Milk? How about SIlk Soy Milk? I do!

Silk Soy Milk and Silk Fruit & Protein are products I have thought about trying out in the past but had as of yet not stepped out to do.  Then House Party had the opportunity to host a Silk Party and I was thrilled that I was chosen.  Not only did it give me the chance to try out new milk substitutes that are yummy and healthy, but also to test out a smoothie substitute that is ready and waiting to be poured straight in my glass each morning.

Thanks to House Party and Silk I was given 4 coupons to try their products for FREE.  I also received a really cool juice class with Silk written on it and one of those nifty tumblers with plastic lid and straw.  Just the type I tend to pour my homemade smoothies in to take on the way to work each day.  AWESOME!  Along with coupons and magnets to give out to my friends and guests, I was given all sorts of awesome "party" supplies that included mini cups, mini bowls (should I serve with cereal) and even mini plates and napkins.  A great way to host a little get together and use Silk products as the theme!

Let me give a brief review of the Silk Products I have tried thus far:

Silk Unsweetened Almond Milk: Although I am not at all a milk fan, with a packet of Splenda mixed into this I found it much easier to drink.  Not something I would reach for on a daily basis, but again I am typically not a milk fan anyway.  I did find it to be very pleasant over cereal and in a milkshake I made with lowfat sugar free ice cream.

Silk Fruit & Protein in Strawberry Banana: This has a bit of a "tang" that I can't quite place.  As you see in the pictures I served it with a slice of fresh pineapple on the rim of each cup, and I found that to be fitting.  Although it said strawberry banana, I almost tasted a citrus quality to it.  It was smooth and not grainy which is often a problem for me with smoothie drinks.  Refreshing, tasty and a good substitute for my morning smoothie when in a hurry.  I was however a bit disappointed in the nutritional info per serving.  I found my homemade fresh fruit, yogurt and juice smoothies to be the same calories for twice as much.  But, for an "on the go" fix - definitely a better smoothie drink, especially with the added protein (that doesn't add the protein "yuck" flavor most do).

Silk Chocolate Soy Milk:  Now this is one that I can write home about.  YUMMY!  Smooth, satisfying and with a rich, but not too dark chocolate flavor.  Awesome addition to any snack or breakfast and even my uber picky 4 year old loved it.  Of course, Chocolate milk is always a hit in this house!

Silk products with the addition of some fresh fruits, yummy cereals (bran flakes with sliced banana served with the almond milk or cocoa pebbles served with the chocolate milk) are great snacks, breakfasts or desserts.

Thanks to House Party and Silk products for giving me this awesome opportunity to enjoy their products and share with my friends and family!

Sometimes Letting Go Seems Easiest

I sit and watch my Granny cry and my Grandpa wince in pain.  Yet they want no help.  They want to just let go and be with the Lord.  I don't blame them.  I can't begin to imagine how tired they must be.  Not so much physically, although that too, but simply mental and emotional exhaustion.  Eighty plus years on this earth just waiting and watching as the world changes around them, not able to stop the bad or always relish the good. 

Over the last seven months I have came and went from their home each day doing the best I could to see to their basic needs.  I kept things clean (which had become a big problem in the year prior to my care giving).  I cooked, I administered medication and some days I simply sat on their couch doing my schoolwork, reading or listening.  Many days I felt I had done nothing but waste a day reading, but if I hadn't been there...well..who knows what could have happened. 

My grandpa has spinocerrabellar degeneration.  This isn't just one simple disease.  It is one that has many types and variations.  For him, it started when he was young with a shuffling gait and stumbling often.  Gradually the disease presented itself in a way that couldn't be denied.  He could no longer feel his feet.  About twenty years ago, he had been out in his garden brush hogging.  He let the brush hog down on his foot and didn't even notice the pain.  Stubborn, he didn't go to the doctor - but likely had broken his foot but felt no pain from it.  It progressed from their.  He started using a cane, then a walker, then a wheelchair.  About 3 years ago his time using the walker to get around became more and more infrequent.  Then he lost his ability to use his legs at all.  He could no longer stand to move from bed/chair into the wheelchair.  My Granny in poor health had to assist.  They hid a lot of this progression from the rest of the family.  They hid it well.  In the last eighteen months he has become completely bedridden and utterly dependent on everyone around him to do anything.  He can still move his arms and feed himself.  He can still see and hear (some at least).  He can still talk, although that is difficult at times.  But his body, it's shutting down around him. 

The disease that started out as a stumble or occasional fall has worked it's way up his body shutting down one thing and then another.  He has no control over himself anymore.  His stomach won't process food the way it should, he can't swallow...he is in a true literal living Hell.  

I could say a lot of things about my relationship with my Grandpa through the years.  I could talk about how I feel, what I think of him, his life and what he has to leave as a legacy - but I won't.  I simply, as a human being and yes, as their grand daughter - no matter what - hate watching him suffer like this.  In the last month I made the choice in the midst of his protests to call 911 and have an ambulance transport him to the hospital.  Both times he was obstinate, cruel even and bitter that I did so.  I honestly believe he would rather just lay in his bed and die than go to the hospital and be poked and prodded on.  I can understand, I truly can.  But I can't be inhumane and allow it to happen.  Severe infections, MRSA and now a heart attack.  My instincts were right.  I was correct to call.  He needed medical care.  In all honesty he has needed 24 hour medical care for some time but it hasn't been possible. 

Now, today - I sit and I wait.  I wait for a phone call.  Is he improving?  Is the medication going to give him a few more years or months?  Or is it simply a matter of moments, days or weeks before we say our final goodbyes and lay his physical body to rest while his soul goes on to where he wants to be more than anything else?  

I sit and watch as he sleeps quietly despite the war waging inside his body.  I watch as the machines beep and the monitors sound as he is comforted by the aid of medication.  I watch as my Granny who mentally doesn't understand this all only wants to sit right by his side.  As she covers his arms and feet over and over again because she fears he will get too cold.  I watch her chin tremble as she fights the tears.  I hear her angry words as she declares she wants to just "go on".  She is tired.  She is tired of fighting the disease taking over her brain.  She is tired of watching the love of her life die before her and knowing she can do nothing to make him well again. 

They are both ready.  They are ready to leave this life behind and go meet the one who gave them life.  

And I am jealous.  I don't want to die, but I envy the thought that they will be free from the pain, jealousy, hatred, misunderstandings here on earth so much sooner than I.  

Peace I Leave With You

Nothing is more heartbreaking than watching someone you love become so depressed they cannot see any good in their life.  I’ve sat back and watched my family the past several months.  Poor health and finances have robbed the ones I love of their happiness.  Nothing seems to make it better.  Hopelessness oozes from their pores, from the space they dwell in…and I am helpless to “fix” it. 

Sitting here on a beautiful Monday morning, I hate the fact that I can’t wave a magic wand and erase everyone’s problems.  Have you ever felt that way?  Have you ever seen the beauty in something and only wished you could open others eyes to it?

I have my share of problems in this life.  I have a veritable crap ton of things that I could complain about.  I have financial, health, emotional, relational issues just like everyone else.  I could spend all day laying around in bed crying about it – but I’ve chosen not to.  And yes, I realize depression robs a lot of people of the ability to make that choice, but medications and counseling can fix that.  It hurts so bad that I can look out the window – see the sun shining, the flowers blooming and smell the crisp clean air and feel God’s love, yet they look through the same window at the same sky and only see gray. 

Peace I leave with you. 

I firmly believe that God did not promise to make this life easy for us, but he did promise to not abandon us.  I am confused and hurt at times by how he seems to abandon us – how it seems to be so lonely and without hope at times – but deep down I know he has a reason and that he is ultimately right there by me.  I choose to claim the peace he promised to leave with me.  I will dust off my shoulders and move forward to do the best I can given the circumstance around me.

Will you choose peace and have your eyes opened to the beauty around you?

Boobs - A Girls Best Friend or Worst Enemy? You Be the Judge!

Some women out there just love to go shopping.  Some love to shop for lingerie.  Some love to shop for cute or sexy little bra and pantie sets.  I am not one of those women.  I wish I was.  Part of my problem is being a bigger woman.  Being plus sized isn't so tough anymore when it comes to clothes.  So many more companies are offering cute and sexy clothes in bigger sizes that are flattering to us bigger women.  But here is the problem I have: my boobs are big.  Eh, who's kidding? 

I have big boobs and I cannot lie!

Some women are shaking their heads reading this and wishing they had my problem, but truly - you don't.  Nice medium normal breasts would be wonderful.  Breasts that fit in bras you can pull off a rack in the department store would be AWESOME!  I can't do that.  I can't walk into ANY store and buy a bra off a rack.  My boobs are so gigantic that I am forced to order bras online to get them to fit me properly.  

Again, some women are thinking I am crazy because I am complaining about having large breasts - but when you need a bra and you have to wait weeks to get it in the mail, or when you can't wear certain shirts or when no man talks to you without looking at your chest most of the time - you'd feel different.  When your back hurts, your shoulders ache and no matter how large you buy the lingerie your boobs are still spilling over and popping out, you will feel differently.

Frankly, I'd love to have a chance to just be average sized.  To grab a bra off the rack at Walmart or Victoria's Secret and know that it will fit me.  

Bras and boobs - a girls best friend or her worst enemy?  What do you think?  

Nutrisystem Week 11 & 12: Where did my motivation go?

Ever since my trip to Dallas in which I totally indulged in copious amounts of yummy and bad for me foods, I am in a complete rut.  Nutrisystem Success Plan that had worked so well...my poor friend..you have been left in the wayside. ::ducks head in shame:: 

I'm not going to say that the Nutrisystem food is bad - because it honestly isn't.  Although there are some meals I just don't like, it's mostly my personal taste and nothing to do with the quality of the meals.  Except for the ice cream.  Seriously - I can't give rave reviews on the ice cream cups.  They are just well..blah.  But I am a girl who has always loved creamy, cheesy, yummy bad for you food.  Yes, admittedly when PMS hits me there is nothing in the world I want more than a good Chinese Buffet, huge Enchilada plate from the local Mexican place or ::gasp:: a gas station burrito.  You know the kind!  Just  like back in grade school in the cafeteria.  The beef and cheese or bean and cheese burritos that are deep fried to a golden (lol) orange!  Something about those SINGS to me.  So, when I stopped following the plan for a couple of days to indulge and go along with the flow while out of town, I found my pallet going crazy craving things I had been able to put down or avoid before. 

Let's just face the facts here.  I have been too disgusted with myself to post on here about it.  I KNOW Nutrisystem works.  The food is good.  There is great support (when you use it - shame on me for not!).  I've just gotten discouraged, lazy and used excuses.  I've even avoided the gym like the plague, and I really honestly love going to the gym.  

I have a few legit reasons for being stressed (grandpa was in hospital, extra school stress, etc.), but still it's not enough to drop the ball like I have.  So, although I have failed the last few weeks - I WANT to do better and PLAN on doing better in the weeks to come.  I only have a few short weeks left - I NEED to make the most of this!

Starting Weight: 229.4

Current Weight: 212.9 

Up a few pounds from my last lowest weight.  I am NOT pleased but I know it can and will change! 

 

 **I was not monetarily compensated for my review of the Nutrisystem Success Program.  I received the products and support as part of the Nutrisystem Blog Nation program in exchange for my honest review on this blog.**

Thanks to Nutrisystem for including me in this awesome opportunity!  Are you overweight and need a boost of help to drop a few or a lot of extra pounds?  Check out Nutrisystem today!  Or call them at 1-888-853-4689!

Best FREE Therapy EVER!

As I continue editing my novel and work toward the day I see it in print, I am amazed at how far my life has come.  I haven't exactly written about my life in my books, but I have definitely used some of my experiences and emotions felt in my characters.  And I truly believe it has made me a better author. 

As most of my readers see, I do a TON of book reviews.  In reading many of these books I have noticed that the authors who have experienced the emotions and trials written about in their stories portray a much easier to read novel.  It is easier to write about things you know.  Sure, you can do research.  Sure, you can ask questions of others and compile interviews to base your story upon.  But nothing compares to being able to speak/write straight from the heart. 

My first novel is complete and in the hands of my agent.  My second novel is being edited and my third novel is in the outline stage.  All three are a huge part of who I am.  The people and places in them are familiar to me.  They are like family.  Yet they are fictional (well the people, not the places).  They each have pieces of me.  Some of them are the people that I wish I was.  The attitudes, actions, even the body I wish I had - I have created a character to fulfill that.  Some show the parts of me that I don't like.  I used the bad and the good in me to help develop the people to tell the story. 

Writing IS good for the soul.  Even if I never sell one book, I will always be thankful that I have taken the time to put these thoughts on paper (er...in word document at least).  This has been therapeutic to me in ways I never imagined it would be.  I have wept as I wrote chapter after chapter that ripped my soul apart, because I was allowing my characters to live through the same emotions I have been forced to live through in my life.  I have forgiven as a result of writing.  I have let go.  I have moved on. To those who doubt the power of keeping a diary or a journal, take a few minutes each day and let yourself write what you feel.  You will be surprised at the world of difference it makes. 

Illusion - by Frank Peretti - Book Review & GIVEAWAY

I have been a long time fan of Frank Peretti.  In fact, his novels were some of the first "adult" novels I ever read.  I believe I made the leap from young adult fiction to adult fiction with his book This Present Darkness.  I have since read every one of his novels - including his children's/young adult series.  When I was approached by Handlebar Marketing about doing a review of his latest book - I was more than thrilled!  I was ECSTATIC.

And once again, I was not disappointed.  Like many of his novels, it begins a bit on the slower side.  You have to take your time getting into the book, but once you do you are hooked and won't be able to put it down.  Great characters, a story that pulls at your heart and one of the best authors ever presented to you in an Illusion that you won't ever forget.

Dave and Mandy are a successful couple of 40 years.  Having been the stars of the magic show for many years, they decide to "retire" but before they can enjoy their golden years, a tragic accident finds Dave a widower and floundering without his life partner.  In a strange twist unlike anything Peretti has presented before - we find Mandy back in her 17 year old body but in the present time.  Stumbling into the small town Dave now calls home, once again the lovers reunite.  But...will time, questions..and forbidden love be too much for the connection they strangely share?

In the art that only Peretti can master, you fall in love with the characters and you root for the underdog from day one.  Although the love between the two may seem wrong and strange at times, you simply can't help cheering them on from the sidelines.  Totally unusual for typical Peretti novels, this contains a leap into Time Travel and all the what ifs of coming back after death in a different form.  Unlike his past novels, this one is not deeply rooted in the spiritual aspect.  It is simply a love story with a few mentions of God, faith and prayer.  The time travel or reincarnation aspect that is evident in this book could be questioned by many of strong faith - but I honestly don't feel this book is meant to be something that will make you question your beliefs.  I think it's very simply a love story of the ages.

As always, I couldn't put this book down.  Don't tell my professors - but that recent Composition assignment that was turned in a day late was all because of THIS book!  It was too hard to stop reading to do my schoolwork!  ::shame:: Although Peretti has floundered a bit in the last few years, this was yet again a novel I am proud of for him.  It just goes to shoe that sometimes the longer it takes to write it, the better it will be in the end.

Lucky for my readers - Handlebar Marketing has generously given me an extra book in addition to my review book to giveaway to one of my readers!  Check out the simple entries below to get a chance at winning this book for yourself!

Facing Demons - Drugs, Gangs, Prostitution, Depression - Book Review

Facing Demons by Ashley Sanders takes an in depth look at a lot of really BIG issues in today's society.  Drugs, Gang Violence, Prostitution and Homelessness. This fictional book takes you into the mind of 4 very different teenagers and how they are dealing with their lives.  

Jason who lost his family in a brutal act of violence, Rebecca who was shuffled through foster care right into the vicious world of drugs and child prostitution, Felicity who seems to have it all but is wallowing in her own depression and hatred of self, and Matthew who is far from his home, without a home and who has struggled to simply survive each day. Together they are led by Blake down a road toward love, acceptance and being able to move forward in their individual lives and their lives together as friends and a team.  

Although the story and ideas are commonplace things that need to be addressed, admittedly I struggled a bit reading this book. I loved the characters themselves.  I loved their stories and how their lived developed and they were able to overcome so many things.  What I had a tough time with was the self reflection written within this book for each character that seemed well, unrealistic.  Yes, I know that many people overcome ALL of the things listed above - through therapy, religion, prayer and will power.  But at times I found the dialogue and the self reflection to be unnatural.  This takes the book down a at least a star for me.  Otherwise, I loved the thought behind it, the characters themselves and the overall theme of this book. I do think that Ashley Sanders has a talent for writing, just perhaps is a little too adult for a young adult themed book. 

**I was compensated and received a copy of this book in exchange for my review on this blog.  Despite compensation I only write honest opinions and reviews.  All thoughts and reviews within are mine alone.**

Murder Under the Microscope - Book Review

Who doesn't like a good Medical Mystery?  I personally am a HUGE fan of shows like Forensic Files, CSI, NCIS and anything that has to do with crime solving, forensics and a good little mystery thrown in.  This book was just up my alley!  

Murder Under The Microscope by Jane Bennett Munro MD grabs your attention from the first page.  You walk/read right in to a murder mystery that keeps you guessing until the last page.  Although you have a few great guesses along the way, you are left wondering who killed who and for what reason.  

You meet young pathologist Toni Day in the first scene as she walks into her office to find a coworker dead on the floor.  The book draws you in quickly as you backtrack to learn of office tensions, jealousies, past romances gone bad and the chance that someone might be out to get her, but for what reason?  Dr. Sally Shore came in to work alongside them like a whirlwind.  What started as a temp position was quickly being rumored to become permanent.  But why was she so adamant about bringing Toni and her team in pathology down?  What was the reason behind the hostility?  And why were so many people dying and being injured in this quickly woven tale of forensics and murder mystery?  

Dr. Munro shows not only her working knowledge of pathology and forensics but her great skill as a story teller.  Having read a lot of books in the last several months from first time authors and authors who are not well known yet, I can tell you there are some people out there who have great stories to tell but don't have the talent to tell them with.  Those are the ones that I can give a couple of stars to for the plot but not much for the writing skills.  There are others who have what is truly talent and skill in writing.  They can take a great idea, a wonderful story and they can weave it together into a book that you can't put down.  Dr. Munro is definitely one of the latter.  I was thrilled with the detail and the accuracy of the medical processes as well as the ease in which the dialogue and story line flowed.  Yes - this book is a 5 star in my opinion.  Some may think the medical info is a bit too detailed, but since I enjoy that - I was thrilled with it.  

Thanks to Dr. Jane Bennett Munro for the opportunity to read and review her book Murder Under The Microscope on this blog!  I look forward to reading more from you in the future! 

**I was compensated and received a copy of this book in exchange for my review on this blog.  Despite compensation I only write honest opinions and reviews.  All thoughts and reviews within are mine alone.**

God Loves Broken People by Sheila Walsh - Book Review

Do you feel broken?  Do you feel like you have missing parts?  Do you feel at times like someone amputated a piece of you and you don't know how to move one without it?  Sheila Walsh works to address these and many other things in her latest book God Loves Broken People: And Those Who Pretend They're Not. 

Having heard Sheila Walsh speak in the past at Women of Faith conferences I knew I would enjoy what she had to say.  And indeed, I can say in all honesty that overall I enjoyed the quotes, stories and insights she shared about herself and Biblical figures throughout this book.  As another reviewer stated that I read prior to receiving this book, it is a bit on "chaotic" side.  Sheila share so many different things from so many different perspectives that the book itself is different from any other "self-help" style book I would normally read.  I loved her honesty and the depth of her Biblical insights into how we are ALL broken at various depths, but at times I wondered where she was going next.

This book is a great one to give to a friend or loved one who is struggling with depression, divorce, loss, grief or just the overwhelming parts of life that hit us all at one point or another.  Shelia uses her own personal experiences as well as those of other well noted individuals in history and currently to guide you into a better understanding of the overwhelming love of God.  I give the book as a whole 4 stars.  Although I love hearing Sheila speak and I loved her insights, I was a bit lost at times in the book due to the "all over the place" way things played out. 

**Thanks to Thomas Nelson and the Book Sneeze program for the opportunity to review this book on my blog.  I was not monetarily compensated for my review.  I received the book listed above in exchange for reading it and giving my honest thoughts on this blog.**

My kid eats his veggies - will yours? Copy Kids Eat Fruit & Vegetables Review

If you have a child, you’ve undoubtedly struggled at some point or another to get them to eat their fruits and vegetables.  Some kids seem to come out of the womb determined to only consume macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets, fish sticks and French fries.  And honestly, there isn’t a whole lot wrong with those foods from time to time, but we all know that we need the vitamins and nutrients that come from fruits and vegetables.  Not to mention the fact that eating more vegetables and less junk food will result in healthier children in the long run. 

Copy Kids Media has presented a great concept DVD called Copy Kids Eat Fruit and Vegetables.  The concept behind this video came after its creator Cai Dixon observed her own daughter responding well to watching other children eating vegetables.  The idea of something akin to “peer pressure” or “peer influence” developed and next thing she knew, she had videoed a film of 12 chapters showing kids of various ages eating their favorite fruits and vegetables.  

The idea is that kids will be influenced by the site of watching other kids eating something and then want to try it themselves.  I have personally experienced this with my own kids.  My youngest used to be terrible about trying new things.  Over the course of the last year, he has gradually started eating virtually anything you put in front of him.  A lot of items (such as raw veggies) have become his favorites only after observing his brothers eating them first.  Seeing another kid his age say that something was yummy almost automatically made it okay in his opinion.  There are still some veggies he doesn’t care for (bell pepper being one) but mostly he will try any fruit or veggie you put on his plate! 

I helped out at a local daycare last year and developed a good relationship with the kids and the daycare owner.  When I saw this video being offered, I jumped at the chance to review it since I knew it would be a great teaching tool for the kids at daycare.  I am blessed that when I send my son there for the day or even when I work there, I can be assured the staff feeds the kids at least one fresh fruit or vegetable at lunch and snack.  The menu varies greatly but routinely raw carrots, cantaloupe, pineapple, honeydew melon, peaches, pears or whatever other fruits happened to be in season and on sale would make an appearance on the kids lunch plate or snack time.  I witnessed firsthand the influence seeing other kids eating their fruits and veggies had on each other.  Very few kids at the daycare turn down seconds on their veggies or fruits at lunch or snack time.  This video being played at lunch and snack time is just one more influence for the last few picky eaters we have!

Copy Kids Eat Fruit and Vegetables is divided into 12 chapters that focus on a different fruit or vegetable.  They include: Apples & Blueberries, Strawberries, Bell Peppers, Cucumbers, Carrots, Avocado, Tomatoes, Broccoli, Bananas, Oranges and Raspberries.  Watching the kids being convinced to try new and different foods simply by watching kids on video is awesome!  I think this is an excellent tool to be utilized in preschools, day cares and kindergarten classes especially.  Picking up a copy for your home if you have picky eaters is a great idea as well.  I give the video 5 stars and can’t wait to see future installments from Copy Kids Media that will teach more about healthy eating and even hygiene practices.  

Guess what?  Copy Kids Media has generously offered one of You Brew My Tea's readers the chance to win a copy of this DVD for themselves!!!  Check out the simple entry form below from Rafflecopter and enter to win this for your own family to watch and encourage healthier habits in your children!

**I was not monetarily compensated for my review of this video.  I received the video listed above in exchange for my honest review on this blog.  Thanks to Copy Kids Media for allowing me to view and review this product.**

Let's play catch up, Shall We?

It’s been quite a while since I have written a blog post that wasn’t a review of some kind.  Honestly, I’ve been so swamped with school, kids, life in general that I haven’t had a whole lot of simple writing time for my blog.  I’ve been writing, but it’s been more working on my books, not on this website.  

Let’s play a bit of catch up, shall we? 

My Daddy had Triple Bypass in early February.  That resulted in my routine with my grandparents changing drastically.  While he was in the hospital and first few weeks of recovery I had to help mom and dad a lot more and wasn’t with my grandparents near as much as I needed to be or had been in the past.  One thing I have learned through my years in medical training and specifically in the last several months working with my Granny – is Alzheimer’s patients do well with routine and have problems when that changes.  February and the first part of March saw a lot of changes in routine, schedules and how things were being handled with them.  Let me simply say it’s been rough. 

In the midst of taking care of my Dad, they were left fending for themselves more.  And honestly, it’s been a nightmare trying to get back into any semblance of routine with them.  The hardest part has been the change in attitudes.  They pulled a few stunts while I was helping my Dad more that frustrated me and just showed that when we get older, we tend to start acting more like children and less like adults.  They act as if I slighted them in caring for him and at times are just “plain ole every day” hateful toward me.  

Do you know what it’s like to have your GRANDPARENTS treat you like a leper?  Talk bad about you when you are just in the next room?  Or even have to sit and listen while they discuss all of your sins with the visiting neighbor as if you weren’t even in the room with them?  It’s not easy.  Even though I know my Granny is mentally incapable anymore of filtering her thoughts and often says things she doesn’t mean or wouldn’t normally say, it still hurts.  

I never had a problem when other people felt they had to make the choice to find nursing care for their loved ones with mental illnesses.  I understand even more now how tough it is to simply sit back and “take it” all the time.  I feel bad for those moms, dads, brothers, sisters, husbands and wives who are mocked and judged for institutionalizing their family members with mental health problems.  No amount of love and dedication makes it easy.  No amount of “wanting to” makes you “able to”.  I know that many people in earlier years would place a child with any disability into an institution immediately without even attempting to care for them on their own.  I have heard horror stories, and I’ve heard how many of those people truly felt they had no choice but to do so.  I am not excusing neglect or saying its okay to toss a family member “away” as if they don’t exist and move on with your life.  But honestly, I don’t blame the majority who made the choice to let someone better equipped care for that child or loved one.  It’s the most difficult thing you can ever do and as strong as we all think we are – there is no shame in getting honest help.  Never again will I think to myself or say aloud that someone just didn’t care enough and that’s why they put a child, loved one or parent away in an institution or nursing home.  All too often, it’s for the ill persons own good, as well as for the good of the family members.  

Don’t be quick to judge in these situations when you don’t know all the details.  Don’t assume you understand how things work or what’s going on with someone with mental illness.  Unless you have been with them and cared for them yourself, you have no comprehension WHATSOEVER of what their primary caregiver deals with on a daily basis.  Even one day with them would not be enough to give you a real honest idea of how things are.  

My life has been busy.  My routine has been gradually getting back to normal.  School has kept me swamped.  My writing has been great and seeing progress and potential success.  Things are good.  They are getting better and will certainly be great.  I hate that my blog and my normal posts have been neglected so much, but I hope to remedy that in the coming weeks.