I’m delighted to be participating in the Cedar Fort Publishing & Media blog tour for author Allison Waggoner’s latest release, IN THE KITCHEN: A Collection of Home and Family Memories, and sharing my thoughts.
Finding recipes that are quick and easy to prepare, as well as delicious, is always fun. National television host, chef, and author Allison Waggoner has just such recipes in her first cookbook, IN THE KITCHEN: A Collection of Home and Family Memories,
The stylish hardcover cookbook covers a vast array of recipes. It’s divided into five categories, along with an index and a section on the author and photographer. The categories include: Breakfast to Brunch, Entrees, Desserts, Pressure Cooking, and Gathering Cocktails. In addition, there is a short notes section at the back of the book where you can include your own thoughts about the dishes.
Some of the tasty recipes include: German Pancakes, Homestyle Pot Roast, Roasted Butternut Squash, Lobster Macaroni and Cheese, Fallen Chocolate Cake, and Lemon Drop Martini.
Many of the recipes are short and simple with as few as three to four ingredients, while others are a bit more time consuming with 15 or more ingredients. Each recipe is laid out in an easy-to-read format with the ingredients highlighted for quick reference. There are brief antidotes with the majority of the recipes giving background tidbits about the dish.
Not all the recipes include a photograph of the finished dish. But those that do feature beautiful, full-page vibrant photos by Alma Delia Guzman. There are even a few two-page layouts depicting the appetizing dishes.
IN THE KITCHEN would make a great addition to any cook’s library whether they are a novice preparing meals or a gourmet chef. This is a delightful cookbook.
In the Kitchen: A Collection of Home and Family Memories by Allison Waggoner, Front Table Books, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462116799, Hardcover, 160 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher as part of the author’s virtual blog tour in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Growing up in the chocolate industry inspired a journey filled with delicious and innovate cuisine for Allison Waggoner. Allison began her career developing her family’s gourmet chocolates, creating some of the finest, award-winning confections in the world. Her culinary designs have been featured in Crate & Barrel, Culinary Product Magazine, Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, Godiva Chocolatier, Walt Disney World, Fancy Food Magazine, Sally Foster Magazine, Target, Universal Studios, William-Sonoma and The Food Network.
As a classically trained chef, Allison’s culinary and marketing career brought her to the attention of television executives. She first appeared as a guest host, bringing her confections and family history to the home shopping industry. Allison is presently seen in more than 80 million homes as a host on ShopHQ, a leader in retail broadcasting.
Now, Allison brings her love of food and favorite recipes to you in her first cookbook. A nostalgic collection of recipes accumulated through the course of her life and career, IN THE KITCHEN is filled with simple, delicious dishes for every day of the week.
For more on Allison, visit her website and connect with her on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.
Do you enjoy finding new recipes? Do you or someone you know collect cookbooks? Thanks so much for stopping by today. Hope you’re having a great Wednesday and the weather is treating you well. Don’t forget to check out IN THE KITCHEN.
*This post contains affiliate links.
I’m delighted to be participating in author Brenda Bennett and Cedar Fort Publishing’s virtual blog tour for Brenda’s latest release, SUGAR-FREE MOM: NATURALLY SWEET AND SUGAR-FREE RECIPES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.
With the holidays comes parties and family gatherings with loads of food and lots of sweet treats. It’s always difficult to find ways to prepare healthy food that your family will enjoy.
Author and food blogger Brenda Bennett has created helpful tips and delicious recipes in SUGAR-FREE MOM: NATURALLY SWEET AND SUGAR-FREE RECIPES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY that will help when trying to lead a healthier lifestyle.
I found this book very informative and straight forward in that the author stresses this isn’t a diet book of low-calorie or even low-fat recipes. The mission of the cookbook, she explains, is cooking and baking without processed sugars. She incorporates natural sweeteners such as honey and coconut sugar in her recipes. She goes on to explain how her obsession/addiction to sugar created a roller coaster ride for her life for many years before she changed the way she approached cooking.
There are sections on what items the author has in her pantry, her kitchen essentials, sugar-free alternatives and avoiding refined flour products. All the recipes in SUGAR-FREE MOM include a nutritional information section that is calculated per serving. In addition, beautiful color photographs accompany the recipes depicting the delicious results.
The book is divided into the following categories: breakfast; light bites, salads, sides and more; main dishes; condiments; beverages; and sweet treats. Some of the yummy recipes include: Baked French Toast Sticks, Mock Tater Tots, Turkey Taco Stuffed Peppers, Quick Ketchup, Mocha Protein Coffee Frappe, and Chocolate Macaroons.
This cookbook will give you delicious recipes to prepare for your family and friends, while also helping you make healthier choices for your lifestyle. Removing process sugar from one’s diet can’t be done overnight, but SUGAR-FREE MOM provides techniques and tips for making the transition easier with tasty results.
Sugar-Free Mom: Naturally Sweet and Sugar-Free Recipes for the Whole Family by Brenda Bennett, Front Table Books, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462114498, Paperback, 224 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Brenda Bennett’s passion for cooking began at the age of 5 kneeling on a chair by her grandmother’s side helping roll homemade gnocchi’s on a flour covered butcher block table. Her love affair with cooking was a mere hobby while teaching as a special educator and earning a Master’s Degree in Education. After the birth of her second child, she had to give up sugar.
With sear determination and a deep desire to still enjoy chocolate, her love affair with food embarked on a new journey learning to develop recipes free of refined sugars and flours. After discovering peanut, tree nut and soy allergies in 2 of her 3 children making homemade healthier versions of the treats they loved became a necessity. She transitioned to the position of homeschooling mom of 3, recipe developer, food writer, photographer and blogger. She focuses on wholesome delicious food free of processed flours and sugars to feed her family and share with friends and fans on www.sugarfreemom.com.
Brenda lives in RI with her husband, 3 children and their dog, Ruby. When she isn’t cooking, blogging or writing she can be found at spin class, camping, volunteering in cub scouts, or in the position of transportation engineer shuttling her children to karate, dance, boy scouts, soccer or softball.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Hope you’re having a great Friday. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar in your recipes, be sure to check out SUGAR-FREE MOM. It’s a very informative cookbook. Do you use natural sugar in your cooking?
*This post contains affiliate links.
I’m happy to be participating in the Cedar Fort virtual blog tour for author Christi Silbaugh’s latest release, GOURMET COOKING FOR TWO.
Here are my thoughts.
Finding the perfect recipe for a couple’s only meal can sometimes be difficult. You find the meal you want to prepare, but it’s designed for a group of six or more.
Author Christi Silbaugh has crafted the perfect cookbook for a ‘couple’s only’ meal. Each recipe is designed to feed only two with simple and easy ingredients and instructions.
The cookbook is divided into six categories – appetizers, salads, soups, main dishes, side dishes, and desserts. Adult Tater Tots, Parmesan Dill Sea Bass and Chocolate Mousse are just a few of the delicious recipes included. Many of the yummy recipes are accompanied by beautiful full page, color photographs. To add to the dreamy flavor of the cookbook, the author shares a romantic tip with each of the more than 100 recipes.
GOURMET COOKING FOR TWO is a fascinating cookbook for couples just dating or those married for years looking to add a little romance back into their lives. This cookbook will add some savory to your cooking and your relationship.
Gourmet Cooking For Two by Christi Silbaugh, Cedar Fort, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462114405, Paperback, 240 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Christi Silbaugh is the self-educated chef and author of three cooking blogs including: Mom, What’s For Dinner, Gourmet Cooking For Two and Zero Calorie Life.
She writes for foodie media giants Glam Media and Federated Media and works for Fast Forward Events, covering food and wine events in San Diego. Since 2009, she has created and posted over 1,000 gluten-free recipes. She lives with her family in California.
Thanks for stopping by today. Have you realized that today is 12/13/14? Just think that won’t happen again for 100 years. Now, do you plan romantic meals with your loved one? Do you have any tips for a couple’s only meal you’d like to share?
*This post contains affiliate links.
It’s a
pleasure today to be participating in the Cedar Fort Publishing virtual blog tour for
author Elizabeth McGaw’s recent release, PALEO MEAL PLANNING ON A BUDGET.
Here are my thoughts.
Not knowing anything about Paleo cooking, I’m
amazed at the wealth of information PALEO MEAL PLANNING ON A BUDGET by Elizabeth McGaw offers.
The cookbook offers an introduction to meal
planning and Paleo 101. There’s information on prep strategy, coupon and store
deals, and a quick reference guide, not to mention numerous others tips and
tricks to help any cook. The author also includes a few tips on cutting cost in
other areas of the household to help during difficult times.
The recipes are divided into breakfast, lunch,
dinner + side dishes, and desserts + snacks. The recipes are for such tasty
dishes as Banana Pancakes, Tomato Soup, Broccoli Salad, Rosemary Lime Pork
Chops, and Raspberry Mug Cake. Each of the delicious recipes, written in simple
instructions, are accompanied by a bold, beautiful color photo showing how the
finished dish should look.
A Paleo diet refers to eating mainly lean meat,
fish, vegetables, fruits, assorted nuts and seeds much like the hunter/gathers
of our ancestors did. The author encourages readers to try the diet at their own
pace and to determine to what extent they want to follow the suggestions. She
explains what it means to eat the Paleo way, the non-Paleo way and a few items
that are “maybe-sorta-kinda” on the Paleo diet depending on the person’s goals
for their body.
I found this book to be both informative and
entertaining. The author has a way of conveying the information so the reader
feels they’re discussing the topic with a friend. The conversational style
writing makes the reader feel at ease and not quite so stressful about following
the diet to the letter.
PALEO MEAL PLANNING ON A BUDGET provides helpful information for those wanting to change
their way of eating to a healthier one, whether all at once or a little at a
time.
Paleo Meal Planning On A Budget by Elizabeth McGaw,
Front Table Books imprint of Cedar Fort, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462115068, Paperback,
200 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of
this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would
review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my
review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and
freely.
ABOUT THE
AUTHOR:
 |
| Author Elizabeth McGaw |
Elizabeth McGaw is the
blogger for Paleo On A Budget, a
website dedicated to those that are following the Paleo lifestyle on a tight
budget.
She currently resides in Concord, NH and works alongside her husband, as
both a Wedding Photographer and Web Designer.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have you
tried a Paleo diet? Did you know anything about the Paleo diet before
today?
*This post contains affiliate links.
I’m delighted to be participating in author Laura Powell’s Cedar Fort Publishing virtual book tour for her release, CHRISTMAS DESSERTS: Sweets of the Season.
Here are my thoughts on this delightful book.
Desserts are always a favorite during the holidays and author Laura Powell has some yummy treats to try in her cookbook, CHRISTMAS DESSERTS: Sweets of the Season.
This charming cookbook is small enough to be a great stocking stuffer, but big on taste and easy to prepare. The recipes are easy to follow with step-by-step instructions. There are numerous beautiful color photographs throughout the book showing the finished desserts that add to the process.
From Chocolate Peppermint Twist Cupcakes to Eggnog Cookies to Gingerbread Cheesecake Squares and many more, CHRISTMAS DESSERTS offers delicious recipes for the holidays and throughout the year.
Christmas Desserts: Sweets of the Season by Laura Powell, Cedar Fort Publishing & Media, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462114733, Paperback, 32 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher as part of the author’s virtual book tour. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Laura Powell grew up in the Salt Lake Valley. She gained a passion for cooking from her mother and created her own recipe book as a young girl along with participating in a summer cooking program through the Deseret News.
She began her blog, realmomkitchen.com, in April of 2008 as a way to showcase her passion for cooking. Since then realmomkitchen.com has turned into her own small business. Laura continues to reside in Utah with her husband and 3 children.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Hope you’re having a wonderful Sunday. Do you have a favorite holiday dessert?
*This post contains affiliate links.
It’s a pleasure to be participating in two blog tours today hosted by Cedar Fort Publishing and Media. Both books are designed for the entire family’s enjoyment and you could say both have a spiritual-related theme.
Keep in mind Christmas is less than two months away and these would make wonderful gifts for someone on your list (or for yourself).
Gifts that come from the heart truly touch us the most and author Shauna Brown portrays that beautifully in her release, BECAUSE OF LOVE.
Children taunting children for the way they look and dress has been around for ages. When Josephine, the youngest of the three Brown sisters, is made fun of because of her skinny legs and large, heavy boots, her mother Phoebe decides it’s time to do something.
The girls’ father Byron had always insisted the family wear sturdy, heavy boots to protect their feet after he had to walk barefooted a great distance in his youth. Without telling her husband, Phoebe decided to surprise each of the girls with a special Christmas gift.
Meanwhile, the girls decided to try to buy their own shoes saving their money. Before Christmas they realized they didn’t have enough for shoes for themselves, but by putting their money together they could get their mother a special present with their father’s help.
Christmas morning the family discovered that they all had learned a great deal from the hardship of wearing heavy boots.
This is an enchanting story that takes readers back to a Christmas of simpler times. The story is a blend of love, caring, faith, understanding, and family. The characters are likable and the story flows quickly.
BECAUSE OF LOVE is a heart-warming story to share with the entire family at Christmas or anytime of the year. This is a delightful reminder of the joy caring for one another can bring.
Because of Love by Shauna Brown, Sweetwater Books, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462115167, Paperback, 96 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher as part of the author’s virtual book tour in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Graduating from Brigham Young University with a degree in speech and drama, communication, has provided Shauna V. Brown with many opportunities to use her talents. She has written and directed original plays and presentations for church and community. She has shared her musical talents, numerous scripts and presentations with pioneer trek groups for the past eighteen years. Shauna has equally enjoyed being a guest speaker and presenter at BYU Education Week, women’s conferences, firesides and community presentations.
Shauna and her husband, Rick, are blessed with six children and fourteen grandchildren. For the past twenty-two years, Shauna has written an original Christmas story as a gift to neighbors and friends.
For more on this charming book, visit Shauna’s Cedar Fort Publishing Tour Page.
Folding a piece of paper several times in different directions to create an image can be a tricky task. Author Todd Huisken has mastered the art in his latest release, MORE MORMON ORIGAMI.
In this charming book, Huisken takes readers on a step-by-step journey to create 24 amazing projects. The projects are divided into three skill levels in the order of their difficulty.
In addition, each step of the project is accompanied by a detailed description of how to fold the paper and a sketch to demonstrate how the fold is made. To enhance the book further, Huisken has included Mormon trivia and history with each project.
This delightful book is both entertaining and enlightening. The designs, inspired by the Latter Day Saints Church history and stories from the Book of Mormon, are fun for the whole family.
MORE MORMON ORIGAMI is an enjoyable book for hours of entertainment and learning experience.
More Mormon Origami by Todd Huisken, Cedar Fort Publishing & Media, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462115099, Paperback, 144 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher as part of the author’s virtual book tour in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Todd Huisken is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the Counseling Manager at LDS Family Services in Fountain Valley, CA. He attended Brigham Young University and The University of San Diego and has a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Todd has served as the Assistant Director of Disaster Mental Health Services for the Orange County Chapter of the American Red Cross. He has worked with victims from the San Diego Fires, Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina, and spent two weeks in Haiti after the devastating earthquake in 2010. He was an early morning seminary teacher for six years.
He is the author of The Dating Directory and the founder of Process and Content, a graduate program newsletter at the University of San Diego. The most important thing about Todd is that he has been married to his beautiful wife for 21 years and they have three daughters and a son and they try to make Disneyland their second home.
For more on this entertaining book, visit Todd’s Cedar Fort Publishing Tour Page.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out this charming books for yourself and/or for gift items this coming holiday season. Have you ever tried origami? If so, what is your favorite item to make? Wishing you a wonderful Sunday and I hope to visit with you again soon.
*This post contains affiliate links.
We associate ornaments, colored lights and reindeers with Christmas, but have you ever considered what these symbols and others represent spiritually?
Author Shersta Chabot does an excellent job explaining how these items can have messages hidden in plain sight in her charming picture book, STARS, STOCKINGS & SHEPHERDS: Discover the Meaning of Christmas Symbols. Chabot explores beyond presents to the true meaning of Christmas and its symbols.
Colorful lights can make us smile throughout the holiday season, but they also remind us to look to Jesus for the truth in all things as He is the Light of the World. Wreaths have no beginning and no ends so they represent God’s love which is like a circle with no beginning or end.
Bows represent the ties of love between people such as the children of the Heavenly Father who loves everyone. Reindeers are strong and capable of pulling sleighs so they are a symbol of serving others through strength and kind service.
This delightful book explores 24 symbols related to Christmas and how their meanings are associated with the season.
The beautiful illustrations by Corey Egbert captures the reader’s attention. The rich, bold color illustrations feature realistic images that enhances the story.
STARS, STOCKINGS & SHEPHERDS is an enchanting book to explore the Christmas symbols for young and old alike.
Stars, Stockings & Shepherds: Discover the Meaning of Christmas Symbols by Shersta Chabot, Illustrated by Corey Egbert, Cedar Fort Publishing & Media, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462114627, Hardcover, 32 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher as part of the author’s virtual book tour in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Sorry I’m still not online as of yet. Hopefully I’ll be back in a few days. Have you ever thought about all the symbols associated with Christmas? Had you ever thought about wreaths having a spiritual meaning?
*This post contains affiliate links.
With just over two months until Christmas, it’s really not too early to begin thinking about how you’re going to celebrate the holiday.
Between the hectic pace of everyday life and the added stress of preparing for the holidays, things can become overwhelming. CANDY CANES AND CHRISTMASTIME: Enhancing the Holidays in the Real World, compiled and illustrated by author Linda Hoffman Kimball, is a wonderful reminder of what the season is really all about.
This charming book is a collection of stories dealing with the problems and frustration of trying to create the perfect holiday. The short stories are humorous, but heartfelt and inspire families to refocus on the sacredness of the season.
Loaded with practical tips and delicious recipes, CANDY CANES AND CHRISTMASTIME explores the idea that the holidays doesn’t have to be perfect to be fun and enjoyable for the family. It talks about creating family traditions and enjoying the simpler side of the holiday while celebrating the spiritual foundation.
The beautiful illustrations by the author sprinkled throughout the book, enhance the story. The basic inspiring element I took from this enchanting book is that it’s not all about the presents you give, but the memories you make with your family and friends that’s important.
Candy Canes and Christmastime: Enhancing the Holidays in the Real World compiled and illustrated by Linda Hoffman Kimball, Cedar Fort Publishing & Media, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462114634, Paperback, 176 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Linda Hoffman Kimball is an author and illustrator based in Illinois and Utah. Candy Canes & Christmastime: Enhancing the Holidays in the Real World is the 5th compilation for Cedar Fort in the “In the Real World” series. This series on topics compelling to Mormon women, features the voices and experiences of a wide array of women “in the trenches” who candidly share what they have learned from the highlights – and even the lowlights – in their efforts to build Zion. She is a blogger with Segullah.org and writes a column for the quarterly journal Exponent II with which she has been affiliated since 1975.
Her other books include humorous novels for LDS adults Home to Roost (Hatrack River Press) and The Marketing of Sister B. (Signature Books), an essay compilation Saints Well-Seasoned: Musings on how food nourishes us – body, heart and soul (Deseret Book) and the children’s picture book Come with Me on Halloween (Albert Whitman Co.). Learn more at LindaHoffmanKimball.com.
Kimball earned a BA from Wellesley College and an MFA from Boston University. She and her husband Christian have three grown children with marvelous spouses and three delightful grandchildren. She loves to travel, make creative messes, and consume dark chocolate.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Do you stress over the holiday season, over making sure all the decorations are just right, over worrying that you have the perfect gift for everyone on your list?
*This post contains affiliate links.
I’m delighted to be participating in author Jennifer Rizzo’s Cedar Fort Publishing Virtual Book Tour for her latest release, CREATIVELY CHRISTMAS: INSPIRED YULETIDE DÉCOR.
While we haven’t yet celebrated Halloween, it won’t be long before the Christmas holiday will be here and we’ll be scrambling to decorate.
Popular designer and lifestyle blogger Jennifer Rizzo has some super solutions and helpful hints for making decorating a fun time instead of a chore. Sharing memories of childhood dinners and fun family traditions, the author inspires readers to begin creating their own holiday customs with family and friends.
Throughout the charming book, Rizzo gives step-by-step instructions on creating beautiful decorations for inside and outside the home. Rich colorful photos accompany the pages of amazing festive projects showing the finished reasons.
Rizzo demonstrates how to take worn out objects, such as ice skates, and give them a second life as unique yuletide decorations. Some of the other project include: Vintage Picture Bead Garland, Snowball Jingle Bells, Grain Sack-Inspired Paper Chain, and Pinecone Hedgehog and Mice Ornaments. The delightful decorations aren’t as time-consuming as their beautiful results may lead you to believe. Rizzo keeps the instructions simple and easy to follow.
If you’re looking to create wonderful homemade memories this Christmas, be sure to check out CREATIVELY CHRISTMAS for some neat ideas. Focusing on family and faith, the author shares some inspiring projects to make your holiday fun and festive.
Creatively Christmas: Inspired Yuletide Décor by Jennifer Rizzo, Plain Sight Publishing, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462114245, Paperback, 272 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Jennifer Rizzo is an artist/designer who owns Jennifer Rizzo Design Company. She loves designing home décor and artwork. She has been wholesaling/retailing her items for over 6 years and sells her handmade home décor creations in boutiques and retailers across the United States. She has been featured in and produced projects for publications such as Country Living magazine, Romantic Homes and Somerset Home. She teaches art and handmade classes, speaks about creative living and writes about DIY and artful living at her popular lifestyle blog Jenniferrizzo.com.
She is nestled in the Chicago ‘burbs with her husband, 3 kids and lots of projects waiting to be worked on. For more on Jennifer and her fantastic creations, visit her blog.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Now’s the time to begin thinking about your holiday decorations. It will be here before we know it.
*This post contains affiliate links.
SIDE NOTE: Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers concerning my family during these past few days. My mother-in-law passed away peacefully in her sleep Thursday morning (Oct. 9). Her funeral is tomorrow (Monday, Oct. 13) so I will continue to be away from the internet for a few more days. I have post scheduled for most of this week so I hope you’ll get a chance to stop by to visit with the amazing authors visiting. Again, thank you.
Finding projects adults and children can do together can sometimes be a bit tricky. One project currently among the growing trends is rubber band jewelry.
I’m delighted today to be participating in the Cedar Fort Virtual Blog Tour for author Katreina Eden’s recent release, BIBLE BANDS: Create Your Own Faith-Based Rubber Band Jewelry.
Not having tried my hand at rubber band jewelry, I was curious about the craft. I purchased a loom and started reading. Here are my thoughts on this charming craft book featuring faith-based jewelry that even a novice as myself can make.
Author Katreina Eden has created a fun way to teach youngsters an entertaining craft while also sharing inspirational faith-based messages in her new book.
Youngsters of all ages will have fun making bracelets, necklaces, and rings using BIBLE BANDS: Create Your Own Faith-Based Rubber Band Jewelry. The book is a handy guide to be used with looms and rubber bands that are not included. The book is designed for beginners, as well as those more advanced in the craft of rubber band jewelry making.
The book begins with the basic pattern and the basic extension pattern. From there it features patterns with more advance techniques. Each pattern has step-by-step instructions, along with helpful color photographs several of which highlight youngsters with the projects. Many of the patterns also feature extra hints and tips for enhancing the jewelry and/or making the construction easier. In addition, the patterns are accompanied by Biblical scripture to strength and share faith. The author also incorporates colors and designs to relate faith-based messages.
The entire family can have fun creating these fashionable projects to wear or give as gifts. BIBLE BANDS: Create Your Own Faith-Based Rubber Band Jewelry is user-friendly and a fun project guide.
Bible Bands: Create Your Own Faith-Based Rubber Band Jewelry by Katreina Eden, Plain Sight Publishing (imprint of Cedar Fort, Inc.), @2014, ISBN: 978-1462115051, Paperback, 64 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the author as part of her virtual book tour. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Katreina Eden grew up in the Midwest, eventually landing in California, where she went to law school and then ran her own law firm for a number of years. She currently works as the Executive Vice President of Cedar Fort, Inc., in Springville, Utah.
Katreina also owns and operates Organiwic, LLC, an all-natural candle company, with her sister. She enjoys being out in nature and spending time with family. Aside from being published in various legal journals, this is Katreina’s first trade publication.
Thanks so much for stopping by today. Hope you’re enjoying a fun and relaxing Sunday with family and friends or alone if you wish. Have you tried your hand at making rubber band jewelry?
*This post contains affiliate links.
I’m delighted today to be participating in the Cedar Fort Publishing virtual book tour for THE STRENGTH OF BALLERINAS by Nancy Lorenz.
In celebration of the release of her YA novel, Nancy is hosting a tour-wide giveaway for a couple of amazing prizes. Please see the end of the post for more details on that. Now for my thoughts on this delightful book.
Shattered dreams and personal hardships are mere obstacles for the young protagonist to overcome in Nancy Lorenz’s THE STRENGTH OF BALLERINAS.
Kendra wants only to dance for the Manhattan Dance Company. Her dreams are crushed when her family has to relocate to Napa Valley from New York. Faced with fitting into a new school and still pursuing her dream of dancing, Kendra has many challenges to overcome.
Helping care for her autistic brother in her single parent household, Kendra begins to adjust and find her place in the new setting. But when she receives news of her own health issues, her life changes forever. The choices she makes and the decisions she pursues turn her life upside down while giving her more determination than ever.
THE STRENGTH OF BALLERINAS deals with the hard work, discipline and dedication it takes to be a ballerina. But the author also gives readers a deeper story dealing with the issues this teenager must face and conquer not just with her dream to dance, but with family and friends. The turmoil and uncertainty of starting over in a new school, making new friends and being accepted from a teenager’s viewpoint are well developed throughout the story.
Lorenz has created well-developed characters that evolve as the story unfolds. She highlights the many highs and lows teenagers deal with daily. She blends desire, family, friends and understanding into a fascinating read. The story flows smoothly and the setting draws you in.
A love or enjoyment of the ballet is not necessary to appreciate this story. THE STRENGTH OF BALLERINAS deals with striving for your dreams, even as they change due to circumstances beyond your control. This is an enchanting and inspiring story you won’t be able to put down.
The Strength of Ballerinas by Nancy Lorenz, Sweetwater Books, @2014, ISBN: 978-1462114528, Paperback, 256 Pages
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me as part of the author’s virtual book tour in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Nancy Lorenz currently teaches as an English adjunct at several colleges. She worked in publishing, public relations and in network television. She studied ballet in New York City at numerous studios, including open level classes at American Ballet Theater in the 1980’s, and continues to study ballet for the sheer love of it.
Nancy recommends that you love what you do, but also to branch out to the many subjects out there yet to discover. The more you learn, the more you can bring back into your art.
For more on Nancy and her writing, please visit her website and blog. You can also connect with her on Goodreads, Facebook and Twitter.
GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
This giveaway is tour-wide and hosted by the author. The prize for one lucky winner will be a $25 Amazon gift card and a copy of THE STRENGTH OF BALLERINAS.
To enter, just click on the Rafflecopter widget below and follow the instructions. The widget may take a few seconds to load, please be patient.
Thanks so much for stopping by today during Nancy’s tour. Have you or someone in your family ever dreamed of being a ballerina? Have you ever thought about the hard work and discipline that goes into being a ballerina? Do you hear music and feel like twirling when you look at the book cover?
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a Rafflecopter giveaway
