The Amazing Spider-Man 2 - OFFICIAL Trailer - In Theaters May 2014...plus GREAT GIVEAWAY!

I was able to review a wonderful discussion guide that goes alongside the new Amazing Spiderman movie hitting theaters May 2, 2014!
We actually used the guide as part of our language arts class for my son. He enjoyed the guide a lot. He was impressed with the thought process that was in each section and how the questions made you search yourself to find the true answers.
I agree that it is set up in a fun and encouraging way that allows kids of all ages to be involved in the discussion and be creative with responses.
After you enjoy the trailer, don't forget to enter the giveaway in order to win your own prize package that includes a T-Shirt, phone case and paper mask!
Lots of fun for the Spiderman enthusiast




                   


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a prize package mentioned above for free in exchange for sharing about it on my blog. I recommend products which I feel would be a good fit for my readers.

UNSTOPPABLE review and Giveaway

ABOUT UNSTOPPABLE

Inspired by the death of Cameron’s close friend who succumbed to cancer at the age of 15, Kirk Cameron takes viewers on an inspiring and hope-filled visual journey to better understand the biggest doubt-raising question in faith: “Where is God in the midst of tragedy and suffering?”

Going back to the beginning—literally—Kirk investigates the origins of good and evil and how they impact our lives … and our eternities. UNSTOPPABLE will prompt audiences to consider the role that pain and suffering has in our lives, as they affirm their personal views on faith, and encourage conversation starters about God, suffering, and hope. 

In theaters for only two weeknights (Sept 24th and Oct 3th, 2013), UNSTOPPABLE: A Live Event with Kirk Cameron sold a staggering 260,000 tickets and reached a theatrical gross of over $3.2 million dollars. In just two nights this independent project sent a loud message – audiences want thought-provoking and meaningful entertainment.   

Kirk Cameron is best known for his memorable role as “Mike Seaver,” a cultural icon of the 80's, with his mullet hairstyle, cool glasses, and wisecracking comebacks. More recently he enjoyed much success with the No. 1 grossing inspirational film of 2008, Fireproof, and his recent documentary, Monumental. Kirk and his wife, Chelsea, were on-screen sweethearts during their Growing Pains years and are the founders of Camp Firefly, where terminally and seriously ill children and their families are provided an all-expense paid retreat (www.CampFirefly.com). Together, Kirk and Chelsea live in California with their six children.

I was thrilled to be given an opportunity to review this movie. Yes, I was one of those 80's kids that grew up watching Kirk Cameron on "Growing Pains", but even more so, I have loved watching his work in Christian films and seeing how real he makes the Gospel. In this beautifully directed movie of Unstoppable, we follow his journey as he narrates through some difficult questions and situations. I feel the movie was straightforward and easy to understand. By creating a "drama" and story to watch, we are able to gain a clear understanding of the story of Creation, God's love for us and how even the most tragic circumstances can be used for good.

My son and I watched this together and he agreed it was amazing and followed the Bible closely. I found myself in tears a few times throughout the movie.

This is definitely a movie that is family friendly, and one every family should watch together. It can lead to some great conversations and Bible Study.

You can learn more about the movie on the official Website, Facebook and Twitter.

Now it's your turn for the chance to win a copy for your family!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

 Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Day 5 of 12 Pearls of Christmas and giveaway!

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items from the contributors! Enter now below. The winner will be announced on January 2, 2014, at the Pearl Girls blog.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Mother of Pearl, Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace, or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

My Gift to Him by: Cara Putman

As Christmas nears, I’m staggering under a year that’s been too full. A fall that’s been too busy. A season of good, but overwhelming days.

Does anyone else feel the same?

There’s nothing bad—life is just full. Too full.

And I feel emptied. So empty.

It would be easy to enter this season with a sense of exhaustion, feeling like I just want to get through and on to January.

Instead, I want to offer my life again. May my gift be my life. My dreams. My talents. My all. May I be available to Him to transform from the inside out. I want my life to be lived for His glory.

Yet I fail. And on the days that I am most tired and overwhelmed I seem to fail more. It is then that I take comfort in the reality that He is the King born in a manager. A King who gave up heaven in order to save me. You. All of us. He has good plans for my life. Plans that exceed my wildest dreams. Plans fit for the daughter of the Most High.

He has plans like that for you, too. Plans that may be different from your plans, but plans that are wonderful and good.

So in this season of busyness, a season when it is easy to focus on things, duties, parties, family and friends, will you join me? I’m offering myself as a gift to Him. Will you?

***

Cara Putman is the award-winning author of sixteen novels. You can learn more about her and her books at www.caraputman.com. You can read the first chapters of all her books there including her new novel, Shadowed by Grace, which releases on January 1st just in time for Christmas gift cards. You can connect with Cara on: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Day 4 of 12 Pearls of Christmas and giveaway!

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items from the contributors! Enter now below. The winner will be announced on January 2, 2014, at the Pearl Girls blog.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Mother of Pearl, Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace, or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

The Nativity by Lynn Austin

The first time I visited Bethlehem more than twenty-five years ago, I expected to feel a sense of the beauty and simplicity of the much-loved Christmas story: a crude stable, the holy family, shepherds, wise men, and the Son of God in the manger. I was sadly disappointed. The traditional site of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem is inside the Church of the Nativity—a truly ancient church built in 565 AD. It has survived enemy invasions, the Crusaders, restorations, renovations, a fire, and an earthquake, but it looks like . . . well, a church. A beautifully decorated and ornamented church, with all the sacred clutter that has accumulated throughout the centuries, but it bore no resemblance to my image of what Jesus’ birthplace was like.

But wait—the real site was down a set of stairs and inside a natural cave that has been venerated as the place of His birth since 160 AD. But even this simple cave was so gilded and bedecked with artwork and tapestries and lamps and incense burners that I still couldn’t get a sense of what it might have looked like on that first holy night. In the center of the floor was a silver-encrusted star with a hole in the middle. By putting my hand inside, I could touch the place where Jesus was born more than 2,000 years ago. I tried it, butI left Bethlehem feeling empty, unable to make the sacred connection I had so longed for.

And isn’t that how so many of our Christmases end up feeling? In spite of all the tinsel and glitter and sparkle, all the money we spend and the stress we endure as we try to create the perfect Hallmark Christmas, we’re often left with the same let-down feeling I had inside that church in Bethlehem. We’ve lost the simple beauty of the story, that precious connection with God that is the true miracle of Bethlehem.

The year after visiting Bethlehem, I began looking for ways to recapture the simplicity of Christ’s incarnation. Santa Claus has never been invited to our family Christmases, and we’ve always celebrated it as Jesus’ birthday, exchanging presents because God gave us the gift of His Son. But year after year, the clutter and glitz had draped themselves over our celebrations, just like the religious trappings that have collected inside the Church of the Nativity over the centuries. That year, I purchased a nice but inexpensive manger set. I wanted something that wasn’t a toy but that my children could handle and touch. We placed it at their level and at the center of our holiday and began the simple tradition of gathering together as a family to fill the empty stable while my husband read the story from the Bible. Our children divided all the people and sheep and camels among themselves, and when we got to their part in the Bible story, they added their figures to the stable.

This simple tradition has become so beloved by all of us that we still do it the same way every year, even though our children are now adults. Our two married children couldn’t wait to share the tradition with their spouses, generously dividing their sheep and wise men among the newest members of our family. One year, our daughter was living overseas and couldn’t make it home for the holiday, but we still held our family tradition while she participated via Skype and a web camera.

And it’s always in those moments, with the simple stable and inexpensive plaster figures and my precious loved ones gathered around me, that I feel the holy wonder of Christmas once again—Emmanuel, God with us!

***

Bestselling author Lynn Austin has sold more than one million copies of her books worldwide. Her latest novel, Return To Me, is the first book in her new series.  She is an eight-time Christy Award winner for her historical novels, as well as a popular speaker at retreats and conventions. Lynn and her husband have raised three children and live near Chicago. Visit Lynn at her website.

a Rafflecopter giveaway





Follow my blog with Bloglovin

12 Pearls of Christmas (Day 2) and giveaway!

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items from the contributors! Enter now below. The winner will be announced on January 2, 2014, at the Pearl Girls blog.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Mother of Pearl, Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace, or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

Christmas Musings by: Anita Higman

I feel great joy in preparing my home for the holiday season. I love to drape boughs of greenery along the staircase, swirl spices into a pot of apple cider that’s simmering on the stove, make crafty floral arrangements, and sing along with all my favorite carols. Then when friends and family come over for brunches and dinners, I put out my finest decoration, my best china, and my sincerest smile. I go all out. These are my guests, and I want the event to be welcoming, satisfying, and festive. I want them to feel like royalty.

When Christ arrived in Bethlehem, I wish He could have had a more splendid welcoming, a more regal place to sleep than a wooden trough where animals were fed. Even though His birth was without majestic lodgings or kingly adornments, I’m so glad He overlooked our foolish blunders, our lack of hospitality, and chose to live amongst us anyway. Jesus certainly could have chosen a different route and easier way to offer redemption.

But He didn’t.

Jesus came in one of the humblest possibly ways. He had a divine approach that left humans surprised and puzzled. And it turned into a road of pain beyond anything we can imagine. When it comes to God’s extravagant sacrifice and love that Christmas represents, He deserves a standing ovation. After all, Christmas holds the true secrets we’ve all been searching for: meaning to our lives on earth, victory over death, and life eternal.Christmas gives us a reason to work, to laugh, to dream, to love. Christmas is a holiday of the heart and earth’s finest celebration.

***

Best-selling and award-winning author, Anita Higman, has over thirty books published (several coauthored) for adults and children. Her latest release, Marriage in Middlebury, is a tale of love, hope, and forgiveness. Anita's been a Barnes & Noble “Author of the Month” for Houston and has a BA degree, combining speech communication, psychology, and art. Anita loves good movies, exotic teas, and brunch with her friends. Visit Anita at her website.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

12 Pearls of Christmas (Day 1) with Giveaway!

Welcome to the 12 Pearls of Christmas blog series!

Merry Christmas from Pearl Girls™! We hope you enjoy these Christmas “Pearls of Wisdom” from the authors who were so kind to donate their time and talents! If you miss a few posts, you’ll be able go back through and read them on this blog throughout the next few days.

We’re giving away a pearl necklace in celebration of the holidays, as well as some items from the contributors! Enter now below. The winner will be announced on January 2, 2014, at the Pearl Girls blog.

If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we’re all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Mother of Pearl, Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace, or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.

***

A Hibiscus "Hug from Heaven" by: Margaret McSweeney

The flurry of festivities during Thanksgiving weekend came to an abrupt halt as I began the first week of December 2013 with an empty nest. My husband was back at work. My daughters were back at college. And my brother, Claude, and niece, Mary, were back in Alabama and Tennessee. Bare branches accentuated the overcast gloom in the Chicago suburbs on what marked the third anniversary of my brother Randy’s passing. Randy had been feeding a stray cat on his deck when the fatal heart attack struck.

Walking downstairs, I whispered a prayer. “Lord, I am feeling really sad right now. Please help me experience your joy.” As I walked into the family room, my heart smiled. The pruned hibiscus plant balanced a solitary flower that had blossomed overnight! This was truly a hibiscus “hug from heaven.”

In her book <em>When Grief Is Your Constant Companion</em>, my late mother shared her poignant poem about a hibiscus plant. She wrote this following poem several years after losing my dad to a sudden heart attack while he was in Paris on a business trip.

TEARDROPS: EVERLASTING JOY
By Carolyn Rhea

My love, how can it be
That I no longer think of you
Almost every waking moment
And grieve for your loving presence?

There are small spaces of time
When my life is so absorbed in present living
That you are not in my thoughts at all.
How unthinkable!
How sad that I should forget you even for an hour!

But I have not forgotten you, my dear.
You are forever a part of me.
You helped God shape my life
Into my present self.
I carry your love in my heart.
I miss you so very much and always will.

But now I’m caught up in trying to reconstruct
With God’s guidance
A meaningful life for myself.
One in which I can help,
Serve, share, love, grow.

I remember the hibiscus plant
We bought at the annual show.
It was called Teardrops,
For several perfectly-shaped white teardrops
Spattered the broad expanse
Of its gorgeous pink blooms.
How we loved it!

Then later, after it had grown much taller,
We saw a different kind of bloom:
Multitudes of small, sturdy, happy pink blossoms
Swaying merrily in the Florida breeze!
Teardrops had been grafted onto a stronger plant!

We named it Everlasting Joy.

Teardrops still bloomed at the lower level,
But as the plant grew ever upward and outward,
Everlasting Joy bloomed in profusion!

Lord Jesus, when teardrops fall,
Help me remember that through faith
I have been grafted in You –
You, the vine;
I, a branch –
Eternally secure in God’s love through Thee!
Blessed with Thy fullness of joy on earth
And the promise of everlasting joy in heaven!

Thank you, dear Father for sharing your everlasting joy with me today in my solitude. We are not alone in our grief. You are with us. “Ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.” John 16:20

***

Margaret McSweeney is well-published author (A Mother’s Heart Knows, Go Back and Be Happy, Pearl Girls, Mother of Pearl, Aftermath), host of Kitchen Chat, and the founder of Pearl Girls™. Through Pearl Girls™, Margaret collaborates with other writers on projects to help fund a safe house for WINGS, an organization that helps women and their children who are victims of domestic violence, and to build wells for schoolchildren in Uganda through Hands of Hope. For the past twelve years she has served on the board of directors and leadership advisory board for WINGS. Margaret lives with her husband and 2 daughters in the Chicago suburbs. Learn more at Margaret's website.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Mere Christianity Critical Analysis Journal giveaway!

  

What an exciting time this is! Mere Christianity Critical Analysis Journal is here! This will be a wonderful addition to your reading and learning time.

The Home School Adventure Co. Launch Team is excited to help celebrate the release of the Mere Christianity Critical Analysis Journal with a special giveaway filled with books that will compliment your classical studies, as well as a couple of special surprises.  

The best news is that there will be two winners, each receiving a very valuable prize package!  

We would like to thank the following friends for their generous sponsorship of this giveaway! Be sure to stop by their websites to say thank you!

Institute for Excellence in Writing
Nancy Pearcey
Trivium Pursuit
Bright Ideas Press
Raising Real Men

Here are the prize packages you could win! 

Prize Package #1

Our first prize package contains all of the print resources from Home School Adventure Co., as well as wonderful books, curriculum, and even a marriage retreat. This prize package, sponsored by the Institute for Excellence in Writing, Nancy Pearcey, and Trivium Pursuit, has a value of $500!

Mere Christianity Critical Analysis Journal $28.95
Philosophy Adventure - Pre-Socratics Complete Set $89.95
Philippians in 28 Weeks ESV $28.95
The Wise Woman with Literaray Analysis Journal Questions $28.95

IEW Teaching Writing/Student Writing Value Pack (Winner's Choice of Levels A, B, or C) $249

The Soul of Science $11.99
Total Truth $25.00
Saving Leonardo $26.99

Teaching the Trivium Christian Homeschooling in a Classical Style $20.40
The Fallacy Detective $22
The Thinking Toolbox $22

Prize Package #2

Our second prize package is filled with all of the resources offered at Home School Adventure Co. in their downloadable editions, as well as a set of all 3 volumes of The Mystery of History by Linda Hobar. This prize package, sponsored by Bright Ideas Press and Raising Real Men, has a value of $300! 

Mere Christianity Critical Analysis Journal Download $18.95
Philosophy Adventure - Pre-Socratics Digital Download $39.95
Philippians in 28 Weeks ESV Download $14.95
The Wise Woman with Literary Analysis Journal Questions Download $14.95

The Mystery of History, Volume I $49.95
The Mystery of History Volume II $49.95
The Mystery of History Volume III $59.95

My Beloved and My Friend book and Marriage Retreat Online $45
Pollyanna Audio Book Download $18

To enter, use the Rafflecopter below. Residents of the U.S., age 18 and older please.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Jades Menagerie Review and Giveaway!

What a fun gift set this is. I was thrilled to be able to include Passport Covers and More in my Holiday Gift Guide! They have some wonderfully unique items on their website you will want to check out. I was able to pick out my favorite gift set theme to review. Living in Florida, I had to go with the flip flop design. I live in flip flops and thought it would make a fun set. The gift set comes with the 3 items seen in the picture. The largest one is a website and password book. (there is a choice of address book according to website)You are able to keep track of all your valuable information in one location. This makes it easy to remember. Honestly, I'm  not sure I'd feel comfortable writing all my passwords down for websites such as bank information. As a homeschool mom though there are many sites I will visit and sign up for products, information, etc where it would be great to have an easy to find location for all my passwords. I have usually been really bad about just writing them on papers on my desk..I am thrilled to now have a place where I know I can find them.
There are also covers for a checkbook and  business cards or credit cards. The set came wrapped in tissue paper which gave a step up look to them. Each set is handmade and one of a kind. They have layers to them which makes them special. I love the look to them and how unique they are. No more boring holders, now you can have something which will spark interest whenever  you take them out!

These would make great Christmas gifts also for a friend or family member. How special to share with them a useful gift with a personalized look. You have a chance now for your chance to win this set in the giveaway below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a free gift set in exchange for an honest review.  My reviews are my own opinions and may differ from others

Great Wall Decals from Vinyl Disorder : Review and Giveaway!

I was so excited to have the opportunity to include Vinyl Disorder in my Holiday Gift Guide this year!
I enjoyed searching their great website for the decal I wanted to try out.  They have a ton of great decals to choose from. I had a hard time narrowing it down! I wanted it to be something I could put on my son's wall as a surprise, but I finally had to have him help me pick it out because I couldn't decide. This just means I'll be ordering more for sure!

The wall decals are easy to use, and work great. They come packaged in well protected boxes and the decal was in perfect condition. Thankfully it comes also with instructions on how to attach the decals easily.

You can get the vinyl decals for both your car and home walls. This is perfect for covering all interests.
They have a large amount of options and sizes available.

The one I chose was Called to Serve.  Here are a couple pictures of the wall decal on my son's bedroom wall.


I love how clean it looks. It is smooth and attaches naturally to the wall. I would recommend going very slowly as you pull the backing off. The letters stuck somewhat and I had to use a credit card multiple times over each letter to be sure it would come off without ripping. I was very impressed though that after I made sure it was loose from the backing, it was easy to apply.

The picture to the right shows it size wise along the top of his bed. The bed is a full size bed.
The picture below is a close up of the wording. You can see how it looks, and how smooth it appears against the wall.


My son loves it. He said it was a great reminder for him each morning to remember he was called to serve Christ and enjoys seeing it through the day.

They offer everything from quotes to pictures for almost anything. Definitely worth checking out!
                                                                                   

                                                           

Now it's your turn for a chance to win! Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received a wall decal free in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own and may differ from others

Campaign perks and Chocolate Giveaway!

As I shared in a previous post which you can find HERE, Sweetriot is working on a campaign with IndieGoGo. By donating to this great cause there are some new and fabulous perks!

The first 20 readers who donate $25 to the IndieGoGo campaign, will be rewarded with $50 worth of Sweetriot product. What a great treat for someone during the holiday season!  After you donate, please send an email to jana@sweetriot.com letting her know you donated so she can get your gift to you!

For the first 20 readers who donate $50 to the IndieGoGo campaign, the reward will be a Ultimate Square Fix Box worth $165. Here is what is included in the  Ultimate Square Fix Box.

These are some great deals, helping a great cause and a special treat for someone!

Along with these great treats, I also have a giveaway for a chance to win! Enter below.




a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I have received Sweetriot product in exchange for promotion. My opinions of the campaign and product are honest and my own. I only review and promote products I feel are of interest to my readers.

"Beloved” iPad Mini Giveaway from Robin Lee Hatcher!

This will be a great Giveaway! You can come back on Nov 4th for my full review of the book!



Robin Lee Hatcher is celebrating the release of her latest novel, Beloved, with an iPad Mini giveaway! 

 
  One winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• Beloved by Robin Lee Hatcher

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 15th. Winner will be announced November 16th at Robin's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Robin's blog on the 16th to see if you won. (Or, better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox!)!

Little Pim Foreign Language Program Review and Giveaway!

As part of my Holiday Gift Guide, I was given the opportunity to review the Little Pim program. This is a great foreign language program geared toward children up to age 5.  There are many different languages to choose from. The program I chose to review was French. Through the program you have the chance to learn 180 basic words and phrases related to real life situations for children.
The Discovery Set comes with 3 videos (playtime, wake up smiling, and eating/drinking). You also get a plush panda and a poster where it shows how to say Hello in a variety of languages.
The videos are set up in 7 episodes broken down into 5 min intervals. This is great because it works with the knowledge that at the younger ages, attention isn't as long as older children.  The videos are full of color which is the first draw into the video. They use not only a cartoon look, but add in real children showing and using the exact things talked about. Kids love to see other kids doing something, and it makes them want to join in. By allowing them to watch kids their own age while hearing the language, they are able to create a relationship with the language and scene.
For example, on the eating and drinking video, it will show the word for apple. They repeat the word in French and English, while looking at the apple, then the child on the video eats the apple. It definitely made me want an apple, it also clarifies the word to the object which is very important when learning a new language.
From the different programs I've seen, I feel Little Pim is high on my list of recommended programs.
A wonderful program for your young child, but works great for any age wanting a clear and easy way to learn a new language! The Spanish, French and Chinese programs also available at your local Toys R Us stores!
***For being a special reader of Lost Island of Book Reviews, right now, you can receive 20% off all products bought off of the Little Pim website with this code: LPHOLIDAY. 


Now it's your turn for a chance to win a 3 pac of the language program of your choice!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Designer Handbag Giveaway with 2 prizes!

What a perfect giveaway as we move into the holiday season! Enter for a chance to win one!



                             Read the full review by Rebecca at Love2EncourageYou. Check out this beautiful line of amazing designer handbags! Elizabeth Scovil has quite a gift for style and luxury when it comes to her handbags as well as a flair for the creative and practical needs of her customers. When you visit her website, you'll soon see for yourselves just why I couldn't resist the delicious color schemes and patterns her products are made of. You can also stop by and visit her cozy shop to see them first hand at 2941 Staten Road, Orlando FL 32804. Please call ahead if you plan to stop by to make sure Elizabeth is available to assist you. Phone 407-947-5006.

Elizabeth has an original stitching technique that is the only one of its kind in all the USA. She has perfected her craft in such a way that each customer knows the bags were made with great care and individuality with the puckered stitching on the fabric. Her line of products have great charm and personality and they will soon become a fan favorite everywhere! I was lucky enough to be blessed with a chance to review one of her gorgeous medium sized tote bags! Bag size is approx 13x14 with 6 large interior pockets. These bags are made of material with a scrumptious feel to it. The medium tote has many uses. It is beautiful and classy enough to wear as your purse for daily use, going out on the town with the hubby, or versatile enough to be used as a beach bag when on vacation. They retail for $80. There is also a loop of fabric installed inside the top lip of the tote bag with a keyring on the end for attaching your keys, or other small items that might be handy to keep close. I strongly recommend following Elizabeth Scovil on all her social media channels. You never know when she might be holding a giveaway or running a sale on merchandise. She is creating new products for the future too, so you can stay in the loop for the launch of any new items. Follow on Facebook Follow on Twitter Follow on Pinterest Overall, I give the Elizabeth Scovil collection of designer handbags a big 5 out of 5 stars for class, creativity, uniqueness, high quality craftsmanship, gorgeous patterns, and great practical uses in a variety of ways. Love them! Visit elizabethscovil.com and purchase one of these stunning handbags for yourself, a family member, or friend. They make terrific gifts - especially with the holidays quickly approaching.

GIVEAWAY TIME!

Now here's another way to get an Elizabeth Scovil Designer Handbag of your very own! You have an even greater chance to win in the giveaway below because Elizabeth has generously offered to give away not one bag but two! Prize: Two winners will each receive a medium tote like the one I reviewed above! $80 retail value! (Total value of prizes in this giveaway are $160! Each winner receiving one handbag.) Date: 10/05/2013 at 12:01am to 10/19/2013 at 12:01am. Location: Open to residents in the USA. Age: 18 yrs of age or older to enter. Void where prohibited. Please enter using the Rafflecopter form below. You must complete the first mandatory entry and then you can complete each additional optional entry. The more you entries you submit, the higher your chances of winning. Please note: All entries will be verified. Cheating in any form is not tolerated. Good luck to each of you and have fun entering the giveaway! a Rafflecopter giveaway *Disclosure: Lost Island of Book Reviews did not receive compensation for this post except for a free link on the giveaway form. Love2EncourageYou and the other blogs promoting are not responsible for sponsor prize fulfillment. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest.

Summer Saltz Package Giveaway!

Enter to #Win the Summer Saltz: I'm So Hollywood - Premier Package! $27.90 value

What a great book and package! This would make a special Christmas gift for someone! Be sure to share this giveaway with your friends and family and check out your chance to pick up this book and other fun merchandise related to the story at a great discount! Read the FULL REVIEW by Rebecca at Love2EncourageYou. Every little girl I've met seems to adore the concept of getting dressed up in fancy clothes and having their chance to make a grand entrance in front of an audience to show off their "cool" new look. The main character in the book Summer Saltz: I'm So Hollywood by author, Connie Sewell, will remind you of that little girl in all of us who so desperately wants to have their moment in the spotlight - but in Summer's case, a series of events makes her dream come crashing down. The book's entire theme and story is so easy to relate to as life happens to all of us. It's not only a fun and meaningful message for little girls, but is great for most parents to relate to who have had to comfort a child after their special day or big event turns into a disaster. When it comes to children's books, may it never be said that a book is boring - and this book certainly is NOT! With all its charms and personality shining through the pages, Summer Saltz: I'm So Hollywood even manages to include one key element that I always look for in a good children's story - and that's humor. There is a sweet pinch of humor spread throughout the book, but I gotta say...there is one particular page in this book that when my daughter and I read it, she just burst out into hysterical laughter! She had the most infectious giggle from then on whenever she re-read the book. Definitely a winner in my opinion. :) Special Limited Time Discount! If you click on this banner ad below, you can purchase Summer Saltz: I'm So Hollywood books, combo packs or even t-shirts at 25% Off for a Limited Time! Everything in their store is on sale 25% Off!  

Follow Summer Saltz on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest!

GIVEAWAY TIME!

Prize: "Hollywood" Premier Package - This is the one with all the glitz and glam! Package includes the Summer Saltz: I'm So Hollywood book, accessory package, and sunglasses. (Please note that the accessory package and sunglasses ship separate from the book but should arrive around the same time.) Date: 9/5/2013 - 9/19/2013 at midnight Eastern time. Age: 18 yrs or older to enter. Location: Open to USA residents. Please enter using the Rafflecopter form below. You need to complete the mandatory entry and then it will unlock additional entries you can enter to increase your chances of winning. Good luck to all! a Rafflecopter giveaway 

Giveaway disclosure: Open to USA residents only. You must be 18 years of age or older to participate. All entries will be verified so please make sure you are completing them before clicking on the green enter button. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Love2EncourageYou and the other bloggers sharing about this giveaway are not responsible for sponsor prize fulfillment. Lost Island of Book Reviews did not receive compensation for this post except for a free link on the giveaway form.

Canvas Print Giveaway!

Here is a great opportunity to enter to win a FREE 8x10 Canvas Print!

What a wonderful way to capture memories!

 The giveaway runs from Aug 22nd to Sept 5th.
This giveaway is open to those in North America. check out my full review of the product a Liven it up with Easy Canvas Prints




Rafflecopter giveaway

Philosophy Adventure Homeschool Curriculum and Mega Giveaway!

You may remember that back in May I participated in a group review and giveaway for Philosophy Adventure. This is a wonderful philosophy course for homeschoolers which helps students learn the truths and how to stand up for them.

Through this curriculum you will help your student learn about major philosophers in a wonderful and unique way.  The book is set up to be user friendly. Each philosopher is broken down into sections in clear and easy to follow ways. You will find interesting reading and information in each section, followed by discussion, maps and exercises to help cement the information into your brain.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to learn which Biblical Characters were around in the times of the philosophers? In this well thought out curriculum you will find out!

This program allows for  you to pick and choose into a 1 credit class, or you can gain 1/2 credit for World History, Speech, Critical Thinking, and English.

I feel this curriculum is a great way to introduce your student to some vital information in a unique and creative way. I highly recommend this and encourage you to check it out to see if it's a fit for your family.

Now it's your turn for the opportunity to win some great prizes! What a great way to start a new school year!



a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received a digital copy of the Philosophy Adventure Curriculum in exchange for my participation of the reviews and giveaways. My reviews are always honest and my own opinion.

Neocell Beauty Bursts Giveaway!

Great tasting soft chews that help soften your skin and work to give you the beautiful skin you desire! Thankful that something that's great for you is enjoyable to take!


NeoCell Beauty Bursts: Gourmet Collagen Soft Chews are available in both the super fruit punch flavor and the fresh mint chocolate flavor. The NeoCell Beauty Bursts include a Skin Rebuilder (Collagen Type 1 &3), a Skin Hydrator (Hyaluronic Acid) and a Collagen Enhancer (Vitamin C). There are 60 soft chews in each package and the directions recommend taking 2 to 4 chews daily. The NeoCell company shares about the product's highlights on the packaging stating what's included: Collagen Type 1 &3 for firm, smooth skin & strong hair and nails; Hyluronic Acid for skin hydration and renewal; and an all natural formula bursting with delicious flavor. Vitamin C is essential to boosting collagen in the skin. Together these three nutrients work together to build beautiful skin from the inside out! Isn't that amazing?! It's awesome that something so tasty can be so good for you! I encourage you to follow NeoCell on their social media channels and be on top of the latest products, awards they've earned and possible coupon offers or giveaways! Facebook Twitter YouTube

GIVEAWAY TIME!

Sponsored by: NeoCell Corporation

Coordinated by: Rebecca at Love2EncourageYou

Prize: One winner will receive a pack of NeoCell Beauty Burst soft chews

Location: Open to USA

Age: Must be 18 years of age or older to enter. Void where prohibited.

Date: This giveaway starts on Aug 1 at 12:01am and runs until to Aug 8th at 12:01am.

Please use the Rafflecopter form below to enter the mandatory entries. Once completed, the additonal optional entries will be unlocked and you will be able to continue earning additonal entries to increase your chances of winning.

  a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: Lost Island of Book Reviews did not receive any compensation for this post except for a link on the giveaway form. Love2EncourageYou and Lost Island of Book Reviews are not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook.

Giveaway for It Works! Basket worth $75

A wonderful opportunity to check out It Works! Great Products! What a unique and different way to experience the excitement of weight loss or losing inches! Special thanks to Kelly, an It Works! Independent Distributor for sharing this cool new product line with our readers in this awesome giveaway! You can read the full review from Rebecca at Love2EncourageYou here. Per her website: "It Works! Global offers one-of-a-kind, safe, effective, and affordable products that will change your life. Our products are formulated by leading scientists, herbalists, and researchers who integrate innovative technology, strict quality standards, and the finest in diverse, natural ingredients into their work. The end results? A one-of-a-kind body contouring line, top-notch nutritional supplements, and a specially formulated skin care line that safely nourish your body and enhance your life. Our Ultimate Body Applicator tones, tightens and firms in as little as 45 min. Loyal Customers can purchase a pack of 4 applications for $59!" Have you ever tried the Ultimate Body Wrap or other products from the It Works! line of items? Well now you can! Kelly has been extremely generous and is offering to do a giveaway of a Pampering Basket with free wrap session and other goodies to one of my lucky readers! Just enter using the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck to each of you!

GIVEAWAY TIME:

Prize: Get ready to indulge yourself with this awesome Pampering Basket filled with goodies from It Works! including a free wrap session, a facial, samples of berry greens and defining gel and some recipes . Valued at $75! Location: United States residents Age: 18 years of age or older. Date: 7/25/2013 - 8/8/2013 at midnight. a Rafflecopter giveaway Disclosure: Lost Island of Book Reviews was not compensated for this post except for a link on the giveaway form. This giveaway is not associate with Facebook in any way. Love2EncourageYou and Lost Island of Book Reviews are not responsible for sponsor prize shipment.

Game Giveaway!

Enjoy some quality family time!

RoosterFin Games Giveaway

RoosterFin games were designed and created by a former teacher. They are designed to be fun and educational at the same time. RoosterFin offers games for different ages and they can be found by visiting their website HERE.

Staci at Luker Family Tales was able to review the game "Color Slap" from RoosterFin. You can read her review HERE. If you want to learn more about the different games offered by RoosterFin or find a retailer near you, then click  HERE and check it out on their website. You can also find more information there about how the company was started.

RoosterFin is giving away one of their games to one lucky reader. The winner will be able to have their choice of games from: PongCano, Shufflin' Feet, Masheroo!, Monkeys Up, or Color Slap. Winner must be a US resident who is 18 years or older. Winner will be contacted via email and must respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be chosen.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

*Disclosure: Lost Island of Book Reviews and Luker Family Tales were not compensated for this post. Prize fulfillment is solely the responsibility of the giveaway sponsor. This giveaway is in no way associated with any social media platform.  

Monthly Mayhem Giveaways!

Amazing Giveaways going on! Check it out!

Welcome to Mommy Lesson Plans Monthly Mayhem!

Hosted by Mommy Lesson Plans

I cannot forget my wonderful co-hosts!

An Ordinary Housewife, Little Angel on a Mission, Craft Cravings, Tiny Tidbits of an NC Diva, & Savory Savings

Let's get to the nitty gritty!

The event begins on July 15th. You have two weeks to enter any of the giveaways. On Tuesday July 30th, we will be having an online party at Mommy Lesson Plans. It will be in chat form. We will play trivia games that will earn you extra entries to prizes. The event will run from 8:00 ~ 2:00 PST. If you can not attend the event, this will not prevent you from winning. You just won't have the extra entries. Due to the Nature of this event, each prize needed to have it's own giveaway tool. This allows you to choose which prizes you prefer to win. (The follow pages are the same on all of the GT's, so once you do them on one GT, it's easy to enter them on another.) Our sponsors have been VERY kind so please stop by and show them a little love or purchase a product that piques your interest! Mommy Lesson Plans has reviewed most of the products listed so feel free to head to the site and read up on all of these wonderful prizes!

Click on the prize to enter the giveaway.

Sponsor	Giveaway
Escape Monthly	A gift box
Fou Fou Pet	A Fou-Stick
Lindsay Boudinot from Just Jewelry	Gift certificate
The Matching Dot	Big Chloe dress
Money Savvy Generation	A Money Savvy Pig
So Beautifully Broken	Gift Code
Megan Goins from Silpada	$25 gft certificate
Style Lately	YOU Nite Shirt
Tom & Teddy	A boy's swimsuit
Wax Vac	A Wax Vac
Wugadogs	A wugadog