The Book that made America (review and giveaway)

The Book That Made America: How the Bible Formed Our Nation (Nordskog Publishing) by Jerry Newcombe is a definitive volume on the Christian roots of our nation. Those who want to restore knowledge of our Christian heritage have their work cut out. As secularism continues its stranglehold on American education, we move further and further away from retaining our Christian roots. The Book That Made America will challenge anyone to know the true origin of our Nation and to fight to keep it. Newcombe hopes to educate Americans by providing the facts of history, proving that America began as a Christian nation and American’s have every right to preserve and uphold that heritage.
All that is positive in our foundation can be traced back to the Scriptures. Recently, President Obama declared that America is not a Christian nation, while Newsweek announced the demise of Christian America. This book is the answer to America’s critics with the facts of history.
Jerry Newcombe, D. Min., is senior producer for Coral Ridge Ministries and has produced or coproduced more than fifty documentaries. The host of two weekly radio shows, he has also been a guest on numerous television and radio talk shows - including Fox Business News, C-Span, USA Radio and Moody Radio. He is the author or coauthor of twenty two books, including with Dr. Kennedy, What If Jesus Had Never Been Born?, How Would Jesus Vote?, and The Presence of a Hidden God.
Coral Ridge Ministries is a media outreach founded by Dr. D. James Kennedy. Its programming reaches a national television, radio, and Internet audience at www.coralridge.org.

You can purchase this book online at Amazon.com or Nordskogpublishing.com.

Would you like to win a copy of The Book that made America? To Enter, leave a comment that is relevant to this bloggy giveaway. You can be a blogger or non-blogger, but must reside in the USA. **For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter this contest, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!** Contest ends September 18th, 2009.

Back to school with See Kai Run & a giveaway!

See Kai Run makes adorable, and long-lasting shoes! I am a happy promoter of the quality shoes that See Kai Run designs! I got a pair of Marco, in the smaller, shoes for Cole to review, and they super adorable as you can see in the pictures (of coarse the model is super adorable):

See Kai Run's shoes are quality shoes, made with super soft leather, great detail in design, and a wider toe area (more room for those fat baby feet). So many times Cole will ball up his feet when I try to put shoes on him, and I think See Kai Run's shoes are designed for this very fact. Baby feet need extra attention when putting on shoes, and the wear that they get.

I love the new fall collection that See Kai Run has! Go see all the new designs, colors, and selections they have! The soles are very flexible, which is great for those new walking feet. Cole is getting to that stage quickly. He is already walking around the furniture! I am glad he is wearing the See Kai Run shoes with learning to walk, because the sole is padded (for comfort) and the shoes are so flexible. With leather shoes, his little feet will stay warmer this winter, too! See Kai Run's footwear meets the American Podiatric Medical Association's rigorous standards for foot health and functionality and has been awarded the APMA's prestigious Seal of Acceptance. Retail prices range from $32-$46. My kids and I highly recommend the shoes from See Kai Run for your family and give them Two Thumbs Up!
Did you hear the great news? See Kai Run shoes have just won the iParenting Outstanding Product Award for 2009!

Seattle, WA (August 2009) -- See Kai Run, popular manufacturer of the perfect first shoe for new walkers, has been chosen as one of the outstanding products for 2009 by iParenting. The iParenting Awards, part of the Disney Interactive Media Group, is the leading family products evaluation program that is committed to helping parents make informed decisions as they choose products for their families.
The iParenting Awards’ method for testing and evaluating products requires review by leading experts, parents and childcare providers, and each product is evaluated on numerous attributes such as quality, durability, age-appropriateness and play value, among many others.
The award-winning product tested and honored in the 2009 Awards is the Cameron Sky sandal, which represents See Kai Run’s first walker line for kids 6 months to 3 years old. Features include:
· Quality construction for healthy development of children’s feet – flexible soles, padded collars, wide toe box.
· The use of quality, safe materials – butter soft leather which meets the most stringent U.S. and international guidelines available.
· Creative, fun, styling that appeal to children and their parents.
iParenting Awards, a Disney Interactive Media Group property, is part of the Disney Online Mom and Family Portfolio, which includes Disney Family.com, FamilyFun.com, PregnancyToday.com and BabiesToday.com.

See Kai Run is a family-owned and operated business located outside of Seattle, Washington. The idea was born when owner Cause Haun was on a quest for the perfect first pair of shoes for her son, Kai. Unable to find shoes in fun styles that still promoted the healthy development of little feet, Cause and her husband created their own line of shoes that satisfied all of these needs. In almost 5 years, See Kai Run has seen sales expand from a few boutiques, mostly in the Seattle area, to stores all around the country and worldwide. Please visit See Kai Run's website for additional information.

Would you like to win a pair of shoes for your little one? See Kai Run is offering a Sassyfrazz reader to win a pair of shoes from the Smaller Collection (0-24 months) or the See Kai Run collections (6month-3 years). (Eleven collection not included). To Enter, go to the See Kai Run website and pick out the pair you would like, if you are the lucky winner. You can be a blogger or non-blogger, but must reside in the USA & Canada. Another great way to get a bonus entry: sign up for See Kai Run's email list from their home page or become a fan on Facebook. **For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter this contest, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!** Contest ends September 25th, 2009.

Energizer Power Through it all Kit (review and giveaway)

This summer we didn't have too many thunderstorms or a tornado, but I know we have gone through some pretty scary ones in the past. I wish I would have had the Energizer Power Through it All Kit in the storms that we have ventured through hanging out in our basement. You know, the kind of storms where all the lights go out, no power, no radio around, and you can't find the flashlight? Well, Energizer and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) want to help families be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws their way. So, maybe we will need to have this resource if we face the dreaded winter blizzards. Through the new initiative, Power Through It All, Energizer and the IAFC provide tips for building a power kit and ways for families to stay powered and connected.

I got a kit to review from Energizer that included: an assortment of Energizer batteries (AA, C, D, and watch batteries), an Energizer Energi To Go cell phone charger, an Energizer Weather Ready 2 LED Flashlight, Energizer EZ Change, and a small radio. I was amazed at how the flashlight worked, and how bright it is! Plus, there is a whistle on there as an attachment, and a safety check list. The small radio is an amazing product, too. It is so small it fits in your hand, yet it picks up many signals for channels. This kit is perfect to keep in our basement, and one out in the car! You never know when an emergency will strike.

Here are some important tips for building a Power Through It All kit:
· Put the Power Through It All kit in a location that is easily accessible to every family member.
· Include at least one flashlight for every member of the household, such as a Compact LED Flashlight.
· Include a battery-powered lantern for illuminating larger spaces and rooms.
· Include a battery-operated weather radio to track the storm.
· Include extra batteries in a variety of cell sizes, such as Energizer MAX batteries (AA, C, D) for extended power outages, along with extra batteries for critical care devices like hearing aids and glucose monitors.
· Include battery-operated cell phone chargers like an Energizer Energi To Go to keep your family connected during severe weather.
· Include Energizer Ultimate Lithium batteries to power high drain devices like cell phone chargers. Lithium batteries have a longer storage life and perform well in extreme temperatures.
· Each year, when you change your clock in the spring, check the batteries in your flashlights and emergency power kit.

Would you like to enter to win a Power Through it All Energizer kit? I have a kit to giveaway to one of my readers! You can be a blogger or non-blogger, but must reside in the USA. To enter, you must tell me what you use batteries the most for. You could also leave a comment about if you could make it without batteries (current lifestyle). **For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter this contest, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!** Contest ends September 18th, 2009.

Oscar Mayer Lunchables

I enjoy bringing quick and easy snacks or foods to the park or on outings with the kids, like to the zoo. I have always been a fan of Oscar Mayer Lunchables, and I was excited to try out the new

Oscar Mayer Lunchables. My kids love getting the lunchables, because they are tasty, fun, and a treat. I like that they are healthy options for a fun treat or lunch. I like to give my kids better-for-them lunchtime options, and the new Lunchables line of Oscar Mayer Lunchables Lunch Combinations, is a great way to go.

The Lunchables Lunch Combos come with new items, like spring water, sub sandwiches and applesauce.
The six new varieties include: Turkey + Cheddar Sub Sandwich, Ham + American Sub Sandwich, Turkey + Cheddar Cracker Combos, Ham +American Cracker Combos, Deep Dish Cheese Pizza and Deep Dish Pepperoni Pizza. Both the Turkey + Cheddar Sub Sandwich and Deep Dish Cheese Pizza meet the Kraft Foods Sensible Solution criteria for nutritional value. We got the Deep Dish Cheese pizza, which is microwavable, and tasted good. My kids enjoyed having a mini pizza for snack. I liked that the pizza is made with Kraft 2% cheese, and the crust is whole grain. I think that the Oscar Mayer Lunchables are made with quality products.
The product line also offers the following enhancements:
· First-ever sub sandwich
· Turkey made with 100% turkey breast: a good source of protein
· Bread made with whole grain
· Kraft 2% cheddar: an excellent source of calcium
· Applesauce
· Dessert like Chewy Chips Ahoy! Cookies and Mini Nilla Wafers

My kids and I think the new Lunchables are a great step up to the originals, and our family approves the new Lunchables Combinations! I think these would be great to bring to a day out (stored in a cooler). The only thing to remember is, some of the lunchables would taste better if you have access to a microwave.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central on behalf of Oscar Mayer Lunchables and received a sample to facilitate my candid review. In addition, Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Suave Beach Beauty

This summer, I was asked to review some Suave Products and check out some tips from George Kotsiopoulos(Celebrity Stylist to celebrity moms Courtney Cox Arquette and Heidi Klum). We all know, as busy moms...frazzled, hurried, and lack of time, how we can feel not very pretty or glamorous. Especially when summer is here, and we are dealing with hot, humid air, and our kids are sticking to us like glue. Well, Suave Professionals products are a great way to get quality salon flare, at a fraction of the cost! I got these products to review for Suave for my personal review and opinion:
· Suave Professionals Sleek Anti-Frizz Cream
· Suave Professionals Damage Care Shampoo and Conditioner
· Suave Kids Free and Gentle 2 in 1 Shampoo
I really like the Suave hair care products. I like the smell and the way my hair feels when I use them. I think my hair is softer, and shiner after using Suave Professionals. My kids love the smell of the Strawberry Shampoo from Suave! I love the thickness of the shampoo, and how well it lathers up in their hair.

Here are some tips that George would like all moms to know for those hot summer days:
(maybe you have a trip planned for those southern states this winter?)
**To flaunt this summer’s ethnic-inspired fashions, mom can steer clear of pricey department stores and instead do some strolling in the ethnic pockets of her city (think Chinatown and Indiatown). Mom will be sure to turn heads in amazing imports (that she found at great prices!) such as saris, embellished ballet flats and bangles.
**Swimsuit, sandals and sunglasses are the essentials mom needs for a hot day at the beach. She can look for swimsuit separates (rather than sets) to ensure the best fit tailored to her body. For sandals, mom can turn to affordable, rubber flip-flops for her and the family or do some online, comparison shopping to find designer sandal steals. To finish the look, every mom needs a pair of high-style yet low-priced sunglasses in a fun color or classic shape (think Ray-Ban® aviators and “cat eyes”) to add a touch of glam.
**This summer, mom can pass on purchasing a designer tote and instead revive and update her beach bag from last season! Mom can have last year’s sand and surf stains removed from her tote by dropping it off at a local shoe repair shop for a good cleaning. She can then source vintage consignment shops for a one-of-a-kind scarf to tie on her tote’s handle for an instant update.
**When it comes to clothes, keeping up with little ones’ growth spurts can be an expensive endeavor! Instead of purchasing a whole new summer wardrobe, mom can give kids’ clothes a chop to extend their use. Children especially outgrow the length of pants quickly, but a pair of shears (or a trip to the tailor for a more finished look) is a great way to keep khakis and jeans around just a bit longer.
**Although mom might be tempted to stay cool during the summer in a pair of shorts and tee shirt, she can dress it up a notch by opting for easy, breezy dresses that will keep her looking polished and prevent overheating. Choosing shapeless, short shifts is a great way to show off gams and empire styles are a trendy option perfect for hiding the sins of winter (hey, after all the work she put in, mom deserved those holiday treats!).
**Mom can help her hubby lighten up this summer by trading in his heavy denim jeans for a pair of summer trousers in lightweight cotton. Mom can also swap out his heavy leather belt for a super affordable colorful canvas one that can be purchased at a local army/navy surplus store.

State-cation and Holiday Inn

With having a young baby, a toddler, a pre-schooler and an elementary age child, our family has decided to forgo a trip out of state this year. Instead of traveling out of state, we decided to take a "state-cation." We want to see our beautiful state of Minnesota, and take day trips. This is much more economical, financially more affordable, and less stress with the kids. How often do people see the many great aspects of their own state? Already we have seen some great cities, locations, and nature sites. This weekend we are headed to a Threshing Show. I have never been to one, but my husband says the kids will love it, and it is pretty affordable. So, we are going to do another day trip. I have mentioned to him that maybe one of these day trip outings we could spend a night in a hotel. I know the kids would like to do that, take a dip in the pool, and have a night out. Holiday Inn is transforming its hotels world wide, including signature bedding with “soft” and “firm” pillows and power showers in the bathroom. I, personally enjoy staying in a hotel. Holiday Inn boasts more than 2,500 locations in the US, offering a fun and easy getaway in every state. I like that most all Holiday Inns have great restaurants near by~ hey no cooking for me, and it is nice to have a break once in awhile. Close enough to home for convenience and affordability, but far enough to experience a getaway, the Holiday Inn “state-cation” becomes a great opportunity to rediscover your home state and still enjoy a vacation.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Holiday Inn. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Noah's Umbrella

If you like the Indian Jones-type of movies, than you will like the new VeggieTales show: Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Noah's Umbrella. This VeggieTales is much like the other ones: full of funny moments, fun songs, and great interaction between all the Veggie characters. Minnesota Cuke and Search for Noah's Umbrella is about Minnesota the Cuke (Cucumber, a.k.a. Larry) who is on the mission to find Noah's Ark. Being a detective, he learns that there is also a powerful umbrella and he needs to get it. There is also a villain who is after the same unusual umbrella. Minnesota struggles and ridiculed, and laughed at. Through his search he learns to trust in God and gain confidence in himself to face whatever comes his way. My kids and I loved this new episode from VeggieTales and we give it two thumbs up. I think it is great how the VeggieTales shows teaches great lessons, and they are fun to watch, too!

Minnesota never does find the Ark, or does he? You will have to watch the Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Noah's Umbrella to find out!


It was fun to see how the artist draws Julia (the girl that works with Minnesota in the video) and how he draws Minnesota. We also looked through the art gallery, and listened to the sing along with Larry.
Check these links out:
VeggieTales: Minnesota Cuke and the Search for Noah’s Umbrella DVD trailer
Minnesota Cuke contest microsite
Where to buy your Minnesota Cuke and the search for Noah's Umbrella: click here

This post was written for Family Review Network as part of a program for Big Idea, who supplied the DVD for review.

Give your kids healthier choices with Earthbound Farm this school year! (plus a contest)

It can be a challenge to send healthy options in our kid's lunches, whether it is to school, or for a picnic lunch. I know it can be hard to send fruits that are easy to eat (like cut up) and trying to keep them fresh! I was recently sent some samples from Earthbound Farm, and these products are not only healthy, but they stay fresh and taste super! From the samples, I had the baby carrots and the apple slices. I think it is great that Earthbound Farms offers individually wrapped apples and carrots in a single serving bag. This is so convenient and your child has their own bag of goodies. I was surprised that the apples and carrots stayed fresh, and didn't lose the coloring. The carrots and the apples were Very fresh, and crunchy! Best of all, my kids had no complaints when I handed them their "healthier" part of their picnic lunch. I am a big promoter of the Earthbound Farms Organic products. Our family buys the Spinach and Mixed salads all the time~ weekly, in fact, and we love the quality leaves! Now, you can get individual salads for when you are headed to the office, or a day trip. It sure is better than picking up a fast food meal, and healthier, too!

These lunch options are certified organic, fresh and ready to drop in a bag, bento box, tote or briefcase:
Organic Apple Slices – These fresh, crunchy apple slices are the perfect size and ready to eat. (5 2oz bags for $3.99)
Organic Mini-Peeled Carrots snack pack – (10 2oz bags for $2.99)
Organic Carrot Dippers with Ranch Dressing – This perfect combination will help sneak in that serving of veggies at lunch (3 packs for $2.89)
Grab & Go Salads: Caesar Salad, Mixed Baby Greens or Baby Spinach Kits ($3.69 a box and includes salad, dressing, topping, fork and the clamshell package can be used as a bowl)
Organic Raisin snack packs – A sweet treat in a little box (6 1.5oz boxes for $2.99)

I would highly suggest picking up the Earthbound Farms certified organic lunch options at your grocery store. These products are great for you and your kids! These would make a great "after school snack" for your kids, too!

Earthbound Farms has recently launched a web-based contest seeking quotes from children for the inside of its clamshell salad labels. Kids will be encouraged to submit quotes thanking those who purchase organic for helping protect the future. If you’re interested in posting this contest on your site for your readers participation please let me know.

For each child’s quote that is chosen, they have the opportunity to win:
1. A $500 US Savings Bond for your child’s future education

2. A $500 donation in your child’s name to their choice of one of these dedicated nonprofit environmental organizations:American ForestsBeyond PesticidesEnvironmental Working GroupHealthy Child Healthy World Natural Resources Defense CouncilOrganic Farming Research FoundationPesticide Action Network North AmericaUnion of Concerned Scientists

3. Winning quotes will appear on the back of our new salad labels and on the Earthbound Farm website!
They have switched to post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic for their salad containers, and they are designing new labels that carry the PCR symbol. Winning quotes will appear on the back of those labels, and on their website, too. They will select a new winner every month through the end of 2009!
To enter the contest, visit Earthbound Farms Kids quote contest
This contest is open to legal US residents who submit their entry with the permission of their parent or guardian, and who are 17 years of age or under at that time. Winning quotes will be identified by first name, age, and city/state on the Earthbound Farm website and on package labels. Parents or guardians must provide their name, e-mail address and daytime phone number in case their child’s entry is a winner. Either adult or child must provide their Social Security Number to receive their prize and register their bond. Earthbound Farm respects your privacy; we won’t share your personal information with anyone else.

Edge of Motherhood (a Hallmark review and giveaway)

Attention all you moms out there!! I have a question for you to answer...Ever been on the Edge of Motherhood? You know, when you feel like you could just bust because you think you have gone threw the ringer, or been run over by a big truck? I know that I have had "one of those days..."a few of them, actually. Kids...they are super, wonderful, fantastic...tiring, wearing, demanding, needy~ yessiree, you can feel like you are on the Egde of Motherhood sometimes. There are other moms who feel what you feel, most likely because we all have experienced something quite similar, or the very same thing. Hallmark has come out with a great line of cards that are meant for those Edge of Motherhood moments, to humorously give cheer and sunshine to moms experiencing those moments. The new line of humor cards is called “Edge of Motherhood.”
These cards are meant to help moms connect by laughing at those "special" moments and celebrate the joys of motherhood. For only .99 cents, Hallmark's Edge of Motherhood cards are a great, and affordable, way to let another mom know you care. These cards are available at select stores nationwide where Hallmark cards are sold AND online at hallmark.com.
Hallmark also has a great new collection of encouragement cards for kids, from their parents. We all know our kids get bombarded with negativity and criticism, so the more we can send them positive and uplifting messages, the better! The cards can be given for those "special days," like: first day of school, first drive behind the wheel, first trip away from home, etc. The cards can also be given for their challenges: test day, Dr. appt., etc. The cards incorporate humor and heartfelt messages to help adults connect in an authentic way, showing support, pride and giving a special child a boost of confidence. And some of the cards include originally recorded sound clips too, which play when a child opens the card! My kids love this feature, and it is a great way to really bring out that smile on your child's face! These cards start at .99 cents, and the encouragement cards with sound retail for $2.99. All are available at select Hallmark Gold Crown stores and other retailers where Hallmark cards are sold.

Would you like to win a set of cards to help brighten someone's day? Hallmark is offering to sponsor a giveaway for my USA readers (bloggers and non-bloggers)! Just go check out Hallmark.com and leave a comment about what you saw or think is something great to know!

This contest will end on September 14th, 2009. **For extra chances you can: blog this contest (put up a picture of your "Edge of Motherhood"), add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or facebook this contest, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

Women Bible Studies: Live Relationally & Live Deeply

Voracious Bible study readers, women purchase Bible studies more than do men by a ratio of five-to-one—and Gallup reports that 14 percent of Americans belong to a Bible-study group. This summer, David C Cook will release two new books in the Fresh Life series, their easy-to-use series of Bible studies for women and about women.
With strong endorsements from well-known Christian leaders like Kay Arthur and Ruth Graham Bell, two up-and-coming female authors, Lenya Heitzig and Penny Pierce Rose, have created the Fresh Life Bible study series published by David C Cook. Perfect for every age, appropriate for groups or individual study, and intended for today’s on-the-go woman, the Fresh Life series requires just 20 minutes a day for a meaningful contemplation of God’s Word. The next two books in the series are Live Relationally and Live Deeply (David C Cook, June 2009). (The first two books, Live Intimately and Live Fearlessly, were released in the summer of 2008.)
Live Relationally offers a fresh look at the important women of Genesis. Though womenin the Bible are sometimes overlooked or downplayed, this fascinating Bible study curriculum reminds readers that women are central to God’s story—and His plan. Genesis alone is peopled with women who experience death, marriage, divorce, rape, and family tragedy. And if that sounds like something out of Desperate Housewives, it just goes to show that the Bible has a message for women—today.
With probing questions, insightful sidebars, and meaningful life-application exercises, Live Relationally offers the vivid lessons and rich wisdom of Israel’s founding mothers. From the complicated Tamar to the often oversimplified Eve, they are wives and mothers, slaves and owners, sinners and saints … and each woman’s story will touch hearts for God.

Live Deeply is for anyone who has ever read one of Jesus’ parables and asked, “What is He talking about?” Now women—alone or with a small group—can dig deeper into the meaning of these parables to uncover their important meaning for their walks with Christ. Designed with today’s busy woman in mind, each lesson can be completed in as little as 20 minutes per day, but will leave her with a lifetime of valuable insights.
Based on the inductive Bible study method, each lesson conjures vivid imagery of the sights and sounds of Ancient Israel alongside poignant application questions for today. The Fresh Life Bible study series offers something for Christian women of all shapes and sizes; everyone will leave with a more profound understanding of the important women of Genesis and Christ’s amazing parables.
Live Relationally: Lessons from the Women of Genesis ($14.99) and Live Deeply: A Study of the Parables of Jesus ($14.99).
by Lenya Heitzig and Penny Pierce Rose
David C Cook June 2009

Good reads to celebrate: Back to School!!

The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper
The future is clearly mapped out for New York socialite Eugenia “Gennie” Cooper, but she secretly longs to slip into the boots of her favorite dime-novel heroine and experience just one adventure before settling down. When the opportunity arises, Gennie jumps at the chance to experience the Wild West, but her plans go awry when she is drawn into the lives of silver baron Daniel Beck and his daughter and finds herself caring for them more than is prudent–especially as she’s supposed to go back to New York and marry another man. As Gennie adapts to the rough-and-tumble world of 1880s Colorado, she must decide whether her future lies with the enigmatic Daniel Beck or back home with the life planned for her since birth. The question is whether Daniel’s past–and disgruntled miners bent on revenge–will take that choice away from her.
Author Bio:
Kathleen Y’Barbo is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than thirty novels, novellas, and young adult books, with more than a half-million in print. A graduate of Texas A&M University, she is currently a publicist with Books & Such literary agency.

The Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love
Once a month, the six women of the Sweetgum Knit Lit Society gather to discuss books and share their knitting projects. Inspired by her recently-wedded bliss, group leader Eugenie chooses “Great Love Stories in Literature” as the theme for the year’s reading list–a risky selection for a group whose members span the spectrum of age and relationship status.As the Knit Lit ladies read and discus classic romances like Romeo and Juliet, Wuthering Heights, and Pride and Prejudice, each member is confronted with her own perception about love. Camille’s unexpected reunion with an old crush forces her to confront conflicting desires. Newly widowed Esther finds her role in Sweetgum changing and is surprised by two unlikely friends. Hannah isn’t sure she’s ready for the trials of first love. Newcomer Maria finds her life turned upside-down by increasing family obligations and a handsome, arrogant lawyer, and Eugenie and Merry are both asked to make sacrifices for their husbands that challenge their principles.Even in a sleepy, southern town like Sweetgum, Tennessee, love isn’t easy. The Knit Lit ladies learn they can find strength and guidance in the novels they read, the love of their family, their community–and especially in each other.
Author Bio:
RITA Award-winning Beth Patillo combines her love of knitting and books in her engaging Sweetgum series. Pattillo served churches in Missouri and Tennessee before founding Faith Leader, a spiritual leadership development program.

Rose House
A vivid story of a private grief, a secret painting, and one woman’s search for hope. Still mourning the loss of her family in a tragic accident, Lillian Diamon finds herself drawn back to the Rose House, a quiet cottage where four years earlier she had poured out her anguish among its fragrant blossoms. She returns to the rolling hills and lush vineyards of the Sonoma Valley in search of something she can’t quite name. But then Lillian stumbles onto an unexpected discovery: displayed in the La Rosaleda Gallery is a painting that captures every detail of her most private moment of misery, from the sorrow etched across her face to the sandals on her feet.What kind of artist would dare to intrude on such a personal scene, and how did he happen to witness Lillian’s pain? As the mystery surrounding the portrait becomes entangled with the accident that claimed the lives of her husband and children, Lillian is forced to rethink her assumptions about what really happened that day.A captivating novel rich with detail, Rose House explores how the brushstrokes of pain can illuminate the true beauty of life.
Author Bio:
Tina Ann Forkner is the author of Ruby Among Us. Originally from Oklahoma, she now lives with her husband and three children in Wyoming, where she serves on the Laramie County Library Foundation’s board of directors.


You can learn more about or purchase these books at RandomHouse.com:
The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper
The Sweetgum Ladies Knit for Love
Rose House

Melt Down (book review & Giveaway)

TASK FORCE VALOR
Explosive Ordnance Disposal — The Bomb Squad

The global war on terror has reached catastrophic proportions, leading the U.S. Special Operations EOD team—Task Force Valor—to Chernobyl, where ghosts of past disasters are nothing compared to the nuclear nightmare about to unfold.

With CIA Agent Mary “Phoenix” Walker heading her first Special Ops mission and Master Sergeant Bobby Sweeney fighting demons on and off the battlefield, Task Force Valor races to stop a terrorist threat in the Ukraine before Europe is turned into a radioactive wasteland.

But when the terror reaches American shores, the team is powerless to help until they can save themselves. And when they finally track down the source of the chaos, what they find is worse than anything they could have imagined.

Chuck Holton has traveled the world, experienced combat, served in the Elite 75th Ranger Regiment, and is the author of six books, including Allah’s Fire, Island Inferno, Bulletproof, Stories From a Soldier’s Heart, and A More Elite Soldier. His journeys have taken him from the depths of the Atlantic, to the mountains of Burma, from the dogsleds of Alaska, to skies of Iraq. Chuck lives in Appalachia with his wife, Connie, and their five children.
You can purchase this book online at any of these locations:
purchase the book online at these locations: Amazon.com, Christianbook.com, and Family Christian.com.

Leave a comment below to enter to win a copy of this book. This contest is open to bloggers and non-bloggers of the USA. This contest will end on September 8th, 2009. **For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or facebook this contest, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**