Dee's Musings

Rippler Series by Cidney Swanson

2011-12-23T07:56:00.004-06:00

Rippler by Cidney Swanson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cidney Swanson has written a spectacular piece of fiction in Rippler. I knew from the first page of reading this was going to be an awesome book. I love the way Cidney has taken a genre and put a new twist. There is never a dull moment in this story. It is page after page of interesting writing.

If you are looking for something different and interesting....this is it!!

This book was provided to me by Cidney Swanson, the author because I won book 2 off LibraryThing and wanted to read book 1 first.

View all my reviews Chameleon by Cidney Swanson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ms. Swanson did not let me down with this book in the series. It was just a interesting and suspenseful as book 1. I really liked the way book 2 picked right up where book 1 left off without any interruption.

The Rippler series is a super read with a different twist. When reading the first book, I remember thinking what a fantastic way to change the genre.

I was very fascinated by all the history entwined into the story line.

I would definitely recommend this series to all my friends.

I really can't wait for another book!!!

I won this book off Librarything and in return promised an honest review.

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Tangled by Erica O'Rourke - A Review

2011-12-19T07:42:00.000-06:00

Tangled by Erica O'Rourke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As usual Erica O'Rourke has come through with another fabulous book. Once I began reading, I didn't want to put this book down. I was drawn into the plot and felt like I was there with the characters in this book. When a reader gets totally drawn into the story line and it feels like they are participating in the activities, then you know it is a GREAT book!

Mo Fitzgerald is your average teenager...but yet she isn't and with all the turmoil and twists within the book..I was really rooting for her to come out on top.

I highly recommend this series of books!

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Still a Mistress by Tiphani Montgomery - A REVIEW

2011-11-23T06:17:00.000-06:00

Still a Mistress by Tiphani Montgomery
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Still a Mistress by Tiphani Montgomery there is so many story twists and turns that involve mayhem and murder that it keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next. Still a Mistress is definitely what I would call a "page-turner".

Two sisters, Chloe and Oshyn, one raised by their mother, the other raised by an aunt. They didn't even know they were sisters for a long time. It seems Chloe is the "bad" girl and Oshyn is the "good" girl. Most of the plot twists involve Chloe looking for revenge against Oshyn. Chloe believes everything Oshyn has should have been hers and she sets out to make sure that it is.

Tiphani Montgomery did an awesome job of creating three dimensional characters that readers could believe in. The plot and sub-plots are so believable that it is almost like I was there every step of the way.

I do recommend this book as a super read to anyone that loves mystery and mayhem. Be warned though, there are many descriptive sexual scenes within this book.

I was provided this book by the Remote Readers program through Kensington Publishing for an honest review.

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Shadow Heir by Richelle Mead - A Review

2011-11-21T05:52:00.000-06:00

Shadow Heir by Richelle Mead
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don't give a 5-star rating real often...but Shadow Heir by Richelle Mead required it.

This is the final book in the Dark Swan series about Eugenie Markham, a shaman-for-hire. I haven't read the previous three books, but I will be getting them to read since this one was so good.

Eugenie Markham is half human and half Otherworldly. She can transport between both the human and the Otherworld without problems, which she does frequently. In this final book of the series, Eugenie is trying to keep the human world safe from Otherworld trespassers. At the same time she is attempting to keep her unborn children safe from certain entities in the Otherworld that believe her unborn son will fulfill a prophecy by the Storm King....who just happens to be Eugenie's father.

There are so many twists in the plot of Shadow Heir that it keeps you on the edge of your seat reading wanting to know more.

The characters are three dimensional and the plot, as well as the subplots are all well thought out and believable.

I truly enjoyed Shadow Heir by Richelle Mead and will recommend it to all my firends.

Shadow Heir was provided to me through the Kensington Publishing Remote Reviewers program for an honest review.

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Pleasure Bound by Anne Rainey - A REVIEW

2011-11-19T08:03:00.000-06:00

Pleasure Bound by Anne Rainey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

For me to say that Pleasure Bound by Anne Rainey was HOT...doesn't really tell you exactly how HOT this book was. So let me just say this book is SEXUALLY EXPLICIT.

Jonas Phoenix meets Deanna Harrison at a friend's family picnic and Jonas is instantly attracted to Deanna but it takes several years before he begins his pursuit of her.

Once that pursuit begins, he is relentless. However, Deanna is reluctant to get involved with Jonas even though she is very attracted to him. She is looking for more than fling with someone and she believes Jonas is a playboy.

To get Deanna to see him as more than a playboy, Jonas issues her a challenge. He asks her to go to Miami for the weekend with him and allow him to prove to her there is more to his attraction to her than that.

In Miami the sexual tension between the two erupts full force and they forge a bond of closeness that become closer with each passing day. However, there is danger lurking in the shadows and it could mean disaster for both of them.

Now you know there is some twist here...that I am refusing to give away. So if you need to know...read the book. I don't give spoilers.

Even with all the sexually explicit material in this book, the story line is fully developed as are the characters. This isn't your basic sex book.....there is a very interesting story to follow here.

The book was provided to me by Kensington Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

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Michael & William Henry - Blue Biscuit Book Club

2011-11-18T04:25:00.001-06:00

Oh My!!! Last night I went to my first ever Blue Biscuit Book Club meeting and did I ever have a blast. A friend of mine had been trying to get me there for the past three months and I finally made it and I am really thrilled that I did. I had the best time ever!

I had prepared for the event by reading the book chosen for the month.....At Random by Michael Henry...if you haven't read this book....you really should. It is FABULOUSLY written and has some of the best well-rounded characters I have seen in a while. The book review I did on the book is below this post.

Anyway....at this book club meeting was none other than the author of At Random himself....Michael Henry and his son, William, who is also his writing partner.

Of course, me being me....I arrived way early. Yeah, I was like the first to arrive after Michael and William Henry. When I introduced myself, I was asked if I was from Inverness...I was shocked. How could they know this? Little did I know, they recognized the name because of the review I did on At Random and posted on the Amazon website. They had read it and loved it. Not only did they love it....it is also posted on their website Henry and Henry Books.

The meeting was called to order and we talked some about At Random and then the authors began to tell about each of the four books that are already published as well as the two that are currently in the works. Oh yes, I said two books in the works....and since I didn't write down the titles....I can't even tell you....okay....I know, I'm slipping in that area....maybe I was author struck!!

Since I had originally bought At Random for my Kindle, I purchased it in print form last night along with the other three books that are currently available. Here the books that I purchased last night:

Three Bad Years - Michael Henry

At Random - Michael Henry

The Ride Along - Micheal & William Henry

D.O.G.S. - Michael & William Henry

Of course.....they are ALL signed by the authors!!!! Go Me!!!!

In case you didn't pay much attention to the photo up top.....here it is again....ME with Michael & William Henry!!!

Changeling Dawn by Dani Harper - A REVIEW

2011-11-16T17:14:00.000-06:00

Changeling Dawn by Dani Harper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a review of an ARC sent to me by Kensington Publishing that according to the front cover is due to be released January 2012.

In Changeling Dawn, Dani Harper weaves a story line about some paranormal creatures she calls changelings or werewolves.

This is not your everyday werewolf story line. Changeling Dawn has romance, kidnapping, and murder...along with some mystery and intrigue.

The story opens with a very young Kenzie Macleod running for her life away of some hunters when all of a sudden she shifts into her wolf form. While Kenzie suffers a traumatic experience, she isn't caught by the hunters and lives to grow into young woman who holds two doctorates. She is an accomplished and well-known archaeologist who has learned since her childhood experience with the hunters not to trust humans.

Kenzie's family or pack live in Canada and are hassling her to find a mate and settle down. She insists she doesn't need anyone and is happy just the way she is.

For me this book started out a little slow and bulky with all the back story being added at the front. It seemed a little top-heavy. However, after it moved on into chapter two, things began to pick up.

This book is not for children....it has several scenes throughout the book after Kenzie meets Josh that are rather sizzling....after all she is a changeling and there senses run a little hotter than humans....at least according to Dani Harper.

All jokes aside, I did love the book once I got past the first couple chapters and the sizzling scenes did not detract from the story line at all...as a matter of fact, I felt they moved it along quite nicely.

I would definitely recommend Changeling Dawn by Dani Harper to my friends.

This book was provided to me free of charge for an honest review.

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AT RANDOM by Michael Henry - A REVIEW

2011-11-13T07:07:00.000-06:00

At Random by Michael Henry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Michael Henry did an awesome job with the twists and turns in the plot of At Random.

Willie Mitchell Banks is now my favorite character in a book. He is fit, strong, intelligent, and holds to his beliefs. Willie Mitchell is definitely a solid 3D character. It is almost as if he could step out of the book and shake your hand..Of course the rest of the characters are well-rounded out as well. Willie Mitchell is just my favorite.

The book is set mainly in Mississippi...maybe that is part of the reason I love it. Almost nobody uses Mississippi as a setting. Other places in At Random are parts of Louisiana, and Memphis, Tennessee. The descriptions of these places are 'spot on' and this Mississippi girl should know. Of course, Michael Henry is a native of Louisiana and now resides in Mississippi so he wouldn't have any difficulty uses these settings.

The story begins with El Moro handling a huge drug deal in the Louisiana swamps. As El Moro heads for Memphis, he has a car accident with none other than some sheriff's deputies in Jackson, Mississippi. When the accident happens.....the trunk of his vehicle pops open and money begins to fly everywhere. This is where we find out El Moro has five million dollars in his trunk from the drug deal.

El Moro sustains a head injury in the accident, but doesn't want to be caught with all that money flying around so he runs... high-jacks a car and keeps going..but with the head injury he runs off the road and this is where he ends up killing a deputy sheriff in another town in Mississippi.

It only gets better and better from this point on. We meet Willie Mitchell's son, Jake and Agent Dunne along with several other characters. Some I loved....others like the "Professor" I hated....even more than El Moro. Actually, I didn't hate El Moro...I just didn't like what his character did. But, the "Professor" on the other hand...he reminded me of all the politician types that are trying to climb up to the next level in politics.

Anyway...I'm not going to give any spoilers on this book...but it was FABULOUSLY written and I totally enjoyed the entire book....but I really LOVED the way Michael Henry pulled off the twist at the end. Now since I didn't give it away....you have to go read it to find out what I'm talking about.

I would definitely recommend this book to all my friends. It is well-written, with believable , well-rounded characters and fantastic story line.

This book was chosen by the Blue Biscuit Book Club in Indianola, Mississippi as their November book to read. I look forward to joining in on the discussion of this book with the other members of the club and the author, Michael Henry on November 17, 2011 at the Blue Biscuit Grill.

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Winner of GIDEON - 2nd NIGHTWALKER Book by Jacquelyn Frank

2011-11-08T06:07:00.002-06:00

This is the first giveaway that I have hosted on my blog. However, I am hoping there will be many more.

I want to thank everyone that participated in my little giveaway!

Congratulations to Jennifer L. Bielman!! You are the winner of my very first giveaway on my blog!

Jennifer....I have sent you an email.....

Be on the lookout for my next giveaway....I am currently working out the details. I will post about it very soon!!

ADAM - New Addition to Jacquelyn Frank's NIGHTWALKER Series and a GIVEAWAY

2011-10-31T17:08:00.000-05:00

Jacquelyn Frank has added a new addition to her NIGHTWAKER series. This new book in the series is called ADAM. Was released on Tuesday, October 25, 2011.

A small excerpt:

Haunted by magic, beset by evil, the Nightwalkers face their darkest hour yet. And when the unthinkable happens, only one legendary male has the power, the will, to save them: Adam.

Other books in the NIGHTWALKER series are:

JACOB (Book 1) - released December 1, 2006

GIDEON (Book 2) - released June 1, 2007

ELIJAH (Book 3) - released December 18, 2007

DAMIEN (Book 4) - released June 1, 2008

NOAH (Book 5) - released September 1, 2008

If you have read any of Jacquelyn Frank's books....then you know they are really good....if you haven't....now would be the time to give them a try. The first book in the NIGHTWALKER series....JACOB....will be on sale in the Kindle and Nook formats on their respective sites on November 4, 2011(ONLY).....for the low sum of just $1.79 each.

Now...you have to get JACOB on November 4, 2011...if you want to get it for $1.79. This price is for JACOB only.

Now I also promised a giveaway....Kensington Publishing has provided a book of GIDEON (Book 2, NIGHTWALKER series) for me to giveaway to my blog readers. All you have to do to enter this giveaway is leave a comment on this post with your email address so I can contact you if you are the winner.

This giveaway for is for residents of the United States and Canada only.

So...there are 3 rules:

1. leave a comment

2. leave email address

3. reside in the USA or Canada

The giveaway for GIDEON (Book 2, NIGHTWALKER series) will run through Monday, November 7, 2011. I will email the winner. I will also post winner on this website as well as on my Facebook, Google+ page and will tweet about.

Don't forget to go by and purchase JACOB on Friday November 4, 2011 when it will be only $1.79 each.

Good Luck to all!!!

Clara Claus by Alexandra Lanc - A REVIEW

2011-10-30T08:22:00.001-05:00

Clara Claus by Alexandra Lanc
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alexandra Lanc has flipped the Christmas story around and told it from the viewpoint of none other than Jack Frost himself! What a terrific twist!

Jack is in trouble with the Winter Council...as usual. Only this time he will be expelled and lose his Immortality if he doesn't meet the challenge placed before him by Kris Kringle. This challenge is that he must fall in love with a human before sunrise on Christmas morning. Where in the world of Immortals...will Jack find a human to fall in love with? In walks Clara Claus....Santa's granddaughter. Only Jack isn't really interested in meeting the challenge...his only desire is to destroy Christmas...and he will use Clara to ends if necessary....or will he?

Even though Jack Frost is mean soul you can't help but fall in love with him and want to help him!

I loved the story and would really LOVE to see the sequel!!

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DANGEROUS MASTER by Tawny Taylor - A REVIEW

2011-10-29T09:22:00.000-05:00

Dangerous Master by Tawny Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Dangerous Master, Tawny Taylor has done it again. She has written yet another deliciously HOT read with an equally delicious developed plot line and believable characters. This is not just another erotic novel. Ms. Taylor has devised a fully developed plot that weaves mystery and suspense to keep you turning pages.

Mandy Thompson is a Private Investigator that is known as "Bulldog" because she manages to dig beneath the surface and uncover secrets about other people. While working on a case, Mandy meets Master Zane Clark and finds herself revealing HER most intimate sexual fantasies while delving into the dark and dangerous passion. Mandy finds she is no longer in control and gives herself freely over to the passion and ecstasy that Master Zane can giver her.

Ms Taylor has crafted another erotic D/s novel but with an usual twist. I will not reveal the twist within this review because I feel that would be a spoiler and I don't give spoilers.

I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a well written read with mystery and suspense.

**WARNING** This novel is sexually explicit. Like I said in the first sentence...Dangerous Master.....is a HOT read!!

This book was provided tome by Kensington Publishing through their Remote Reviewers program for an honest review.

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FORBIDDEN by Megan Curd - A REVIEW

2011-10-27T06:21:00.000-05:00

Forbidden by Megan Curd
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

FORBIDDEN by Megan Curd was a fresh take on what seems to be a popular idea for writing books these days. Of course...who am I to complain about the books using the supernatural beings for characters....I TOTALLY love them!! However, Megan took the Angels & Demons idea to another level.

FORBIDDEN has so many different twists, it keeps you GLUED to your chair...right on the edge want ing...no NEEDING to know what is going to happen next.

Megan Curd has done an awesome job of spinning a story that gets the reader totally involved in the outcome.

Thank you Megan for allowing me to review your book. I have so enjoyed it!! I know what you are thinking...If I LOVED this book so much....why didn't I give it a 5-Star rating. I only give 5 Stars to books that provide me with some life altering experience.

Megan Curd provided for me a copy of her book FORBIDDEN free of charge for an honest review. Which is what you just got!!

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Diary of a Vampeen by Christin Lovell - A REVIEW

2011-10-18T16:52:00.000-05:00

Diary of a Vampeen by Christin Lovell
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

In Diary of a Vampeen, Christin Lovell introduces us to another "Vampire" species. This particular species is part human...part vampire.

Lexi meets Kellan and they fall in love...actually they are "soul mates". Really a sixteen year old with a "soul mate". Anyway, this seems to be a romance with vampire tendencies. We even have a vampire fight thrown in for good measure. Yes, a vampire called Kiera tries to kill Lexi after her transformation, but alas, Lexi...a new vampeen, wins that battle against a seasoned vampire.

Most of the antics and attitudes in this book really make you think "high school" and that is good since this is a young adult novel. However, there were quite a few grammatical errors that kept distracting me from the story, even though I tried very hard to ignore them.

While I wasn't totally happy with this novel, I did continue reading until it was finished. How else could I write a true review? I don't mean to totally trash this book. What I always say is read it yourself and see what you think.

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Wish on the Moon by Karen Rose Smith - A REVIEW

2011-10-16T07:07:00.001-05:00

Wish On The Moon by Karen Rose Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Wish on the Moon is the first book I've read by Karen Rose Smith and while I did like the story line, there was way too much antagonism/sexual tension between Laura and Mitch for it to be a believable story for me.

Laura Applegate Sanders is the estranged daughter of Ray Applegate a very successful jeweler. Mitch Riley has been Ray's partner for a few years when Ray need cardiac bypass surgery. Mitch goes and finds Laura and shows up on her doorstep to try and get her to come back to see her father.

Laura hasn't seen her father in 6 years when he disowned her because she married Doug Sanders, a man her father thought was just after the money she could supply him because he was an artist with no job and no prospects for one.

Mitch arrives at Laura's door with preconceived ideas about why Ray hasn't seen his daughter and he believed it was because Laura was a wild child and wanted her way and just left and never looked back. Boy...does Mitch have a lot to learn about the day Laura left her father's house.

Almost immediately Mitch feels some attraction for Laura and that tension builds as he gets to know more about her.

Does the boy get the girl? You will have to read the book to find that out....I don't give out spoilers in my reviews.

Why did I only give this book 3 stars if I liked it...and obviously I did like something about it because I took the time to finish the book and write this review. However, while the characters are pretty believable for me, the fact that two people could meet and almost instantaneously have a strong attraction for one another is just really difficult for me hold on to.

Go ahead and read the book....maybe you are more romantic than I am and will like the book more than I did!!

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VAMPIRE ASSASSIN by Samantha Warren - A REVIEW

2011-10-13T16:11:00.000-05:00

Vampire Assassin by Samantha Warren
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

In Vampire Assassin, Samantha Warren begins the story by talking about some man named Bob and giving a complete description of him. It happens that the narrator of this book is a vampire that hires herself out as an assassin and her target is this Bob fellow, who by all accounts is a cheating, scumbag. Apparently the wife has arranged in some way to have the assassin take care of Bob and he is found dead just as planned by the wife.

OK...I like vampire novels pretty well. But this one felt very stilted. The language is way too conversational. At some points, the author is even explaining why she said or did something. Vampire Assassin is billed as a short novella....but it is more like a serial read and this one installment is like maybe the first 3 or 4 chapters.

Lets just say, I did not enjoy the story line or the writing. Just my own opinion.

This book was recommended to me by a friend...so as you can see some people do like the story line.

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MISTRESS by MARRIAGE by Maggie Robinson

2011-10-10T15:21:00.000-05:00

Mistress by Marriage by Maggie Robinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Mistress by Marriage, Maggie Robinson put the sizzle on the page while allowing the reader to use their imagination. I truly enjoyed the struggle between Baron Edward Christie and his wife of 6 years, Caroline Parker Christie.

Baron Christie has a reputation of being reserved and calm. He takes this reputation to extremes in all situations except with his red-headed wife, Caroline. She stirs irresistible lust in Christie's body that he can't control.

Christie marries Caroline by special license only a week after they had met at a ball held by Lady Huntington. Within a year of that marriage he surprises Caroline on her birthday and finds her in a compromising situation with an old friend, Andrew Rossiter. Because of her supposed indiscretion, he moves her into a "love nest" house on Jane Street, where many of the influential ton kept their mistresses. Christie then visits Caroline every June 14 for sex and to inflict more anger on Caroline. The passion in this relationship flows both ways. Neither can control themselves.

Christie believes that Caroline committed adultery and after five years has decided he will petition for a divorce. Caroline is prepared for this news and believes it is for the best since they can't seem to live together or stay away from one another.

While this is mainly a romance, there is some suspense and mystery woven throughout the plot which only adds to the story line. The characters seem to react in believable ways in the many situations they are put into.

In my opinion, this is a fabulously written suspenseful, mystery romance. I would definitely recommend it as a read for anyone that likes romance.

Mistress by Marriage by Maggie Robinson was provided free of charge by Kensington Publishing for an honest review.

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IN THE BARRISTER'S CHAMBERS by Tina Gabrielle - A REVIEW

2011-10-06T15:45:00.000-05:00

In the Barrister’s Chambers by Tina Gabrielle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tina Gabrielle has created convincing three dimensional characters in her book In the Barrister's Chambers. The characters speak, act and seem to feel the way a real person would in a similar situation. The plot has many twists and turns that keep you riveted to your seat and turning pages to see what happens next.

Lady Evelyn Darlington loves the law. After all she was raised by her widowed father who was a professor at Inns of Court that took pupils under his wing for tutelage. One such pupil was Jack Harding. Lady Evelyn had been entranced by Jack Harding even as a child.

Jack Harding is now a successful barrister and Lady Evelyn requires his services for her soon to be betrothed who has been accused of murder. After convincing Harding to accept the case, Lady Evelyn manages to worm her way into the investigation at every turn.

Because I don't believe in giving out spoilers, I will not talk about the rest of the book....but know it is a fabulous read. It does contain some well written areas that firmly sizzle on the page.

In the Barrister's Chamber is an excellent read. It contains romance, intrigue, mystery, and some revenge. You can't go wrong reading this one.

Kensington Publishing provided this book free of charge for an honest review.

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RAW DESIRE by Kate Pearce - A REVIEW

2011-10-03T14:35:00.000-05:00

Raw Desire by Kate Pearce
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kate Pearce has taken "HOT" to a whole new level with RAW DESIRE. From the first page to the last it is full of riveting, STEAMY sexual scenes intertwined with mystery and suspense.

Ally Kendall has returned to her hometown to sell her mother's house. Ally had left her hometown in disgrace years ago and knew she wouldn't have an easy time returning. Rob Ward, her old boyfriend, who she betrayed with his best friend are both in town and she runs into them frequently. The sexual tension between the three is extraordinary.

RAW DESIRE is infused with BDSM and Gay/Lesbian scenes that are sexually explicit. While this is not necessarily the type of book I normally read, I must say that I did enjoy the main story plot. It was strong and well written. The characters were three dimensional and easily believable.

If you are looking for a HOT read...this is one to grab.

This book was provided by Kensington Publishing free of charge for an honest review.

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Haunted on Bourbon Street by Deanna Chase - A Review

2011-10-02T10:41:00.001-05:00

Haunted on Bourbon Street: A Jade Calhoun Novel by Deanna Chase
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Haunted on Bourbon Street, Deanna Chase spins a very "edge of your seat" supernatural thriller with a little romance thrown in for good measure.

This novel has plenty supernatural aspects....empaths, witches, low-level angels, and of course....ghosts...and plenty of them. Jade, the artistic empath is the main character in the book. She is an empath and right away upon moving to her new home in the French Quarter in Louisiana, she manages to get a ghost to attach himself to her...without her knowledge, of course. She begins to have very sensual dreams that include a man, she has dubbed as "Mr. Sexy", and it turns out he is a ghost.

Jade is very attracted to her landlord, who is also the owner of the strip club next door to the coffee shop where she works for Pyper. The ghost that has attached himself to Jade is becoming increasingly jealous of the attentions that Jade is receiving from Kane, her landlord. As the book progresses we find out why. It turns out that Jade isn't the only person haunted by a ghost...Pyper has her own ghost attachment....except that he is an evil ghost and causes her much pain and anguish.

This is the first book in this series and I, personally, cannot wait until the next book comes out....I will definitely be sure to read it....I can't wait!

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The CAFE Book by Gail Boushey & Joan Moser - A Review

2011-09-24T07:18:00.000-05:00

The CAFE Book: Engaging All Students in Daily Literary Assessment and Instruction by Gail Boushey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are an educator, this is a must read book. Boushey and Moser present an easy and practical way to integrate assessment into daily reading and classroom discussion and activities. The CAFE system is research based and the acronym stands for Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency, and Expand vocabulary.

The CAFE system provides support for teachers as they organize the assessment data so it can be used to truly inform instruction int he classroom. It also helps with tracking the student's strengths and goals.

In the CAFE system there are no expensive materials required. You don't even have to totally change the approaches that are now being used to utilize the CAFE system. It is built on flexibility and allows teachers to tailor the system to meet the needs of the students in their individual classroom. There is a companion book called The Daily Five which I will be reading and reviewing next.

This book was provided tome by my school district and I would recommend that all educators in elementary schools take the time to read about the CAFE system.

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2011-09-17T14:36:00.000-05:00

The Widow's Walk League by Nancy Lynn Jarvis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In The Widow's Walk League, Nancy Lynn Jarvis creates an ingeniously planned out novel of mayhem and intrigue. It keeps you in your chair...book in hand to see what will happen next.

Several of the husbands in Santa Cruz are being murdered and the local news is buzzing about a dark dressed figure described as DEATH has been seen at the scene of each murder. Regan McHenry, the real estate agent in Santa Cruz is hired by the new widows to sell their homes and she discovers all the murdered men had something in common.....all their wives belong to The Widow's Walk League.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it to anyone that enjoys a great read!

I received this book through Goodreads First Reads Program. All opinions are my own.

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Crime Fraiche by Alexander Campion - A Review

2011-09-11T20:10:00.000-05:00

Crime Fraiche by Alexander Campion
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The book seems well written, however I had a really tough time connecting with any of the characters. This non-connection made it difficult for me to make myself read and therefore, I didn't enjoy the book as much as I should.

This mystery by Alexander Campion is set in 16th Century Paris and has a lot of twists and turns.

Not everyone can or should like the same thing necessarily...so I encourage you to read the book yourself and see what you think.

This book was provided to me free of charge by Kensington Publishing for an honest review. These are my opinions.

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Trip to the Tupelo, MS Flea Market

2011-09-10T17:36:00.000-05:00

Today my husband and I decided we would make the three hour trip to the Tupelo, MS Flea Market just to have something to do. So about 7:30 am, we left the house and traveled in that direction. Of course, we took the scenic route....yes...we went up the Natchez Trace Parkway. It was such a deliciously delightful morning drive.Now...to be perfectly honest, in the past couple years the flea market has really not been a productive trip for us. Meaning...we usually don't find anything we want or need. Today really wasn't much different.......EXCEPT....that I met author Pat Brannon at the flea market. She had a table set up and was autographing her books. In case you don't know who Pat Brannon is....her is a bit of a blurb about her from her own web page....www.patbrannon.com

Award-winning Christian poet, children’s author, singer, songwriter, speaker, encourager, and best-selling author in the Authors to Believe In Book Club, Pat Brannon is a lady you want to meet, even though you may not know it yet. Actually, Pat is the next person you want to invite to your school, church or community event. She does a highly visual, attention-getting, eye-opening character education presentation for all ages on the evils of bullying. Pat entertains and educates her audiences all at the same time.

Now...while I was waiting on dear sweet husband to finish his rounds in the flea market, I sat down and read one of the books I purchased from MS Brannon. Here is my Review of that book!

Food Fight Frenzy by Pat Brannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book, Food Fight Frenzy by Pat Brannon is so cute and has a wonderful message for all children and adults alike. Ms.Brannon uses language that any third grade student can relate to and has the book set in the south, which for me is a definite plus.

The illustrations, done by Rachael Smith, are so vivid and wonderful. You just have to see them to believe.

I totally recommend this book for all children....it truly teaches life lessons that all children need to learn. Like I said, it can also be beneficial for adults as well.

I purchased this book today at a flea market where the author, Pat Brannon, had set up a table. This review is honest and my own opinion.

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Torn by Erica O'Rourke - A Review

2011-08-28T05:25:00.000-05:00

Torn by Erica O'Rourke

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Title: Torn
Author: Erica O’Rourke
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corp.

Erica O’Rourke did a fabulous job with this darkly, exciting novel about Mo Fitzgerald who is torn between two guys and worlds she doesn’t begin to understand. Torn is definitely addictive. You cannot put it down once you begin. The only thought is to get back and see what is happening next.

Mo Fitzgerald is a normal seventeen year old about to be senior in high school who is a witness to her best friend, Verity being murdered. Somehow, Mo escapes from the murderers and vows to find them and exact vengeance for Verity. Mo is no stranger to secrets, but learns that even best friends have secrets from one another. Attempting to get vengeance for Verity, Mo has to choose between two men that are both equally dangerous in their own ways. Colin, who is duty bound to protect her, and Luc, well he is very mysterious. In her effort to get revenge on Verity’s murders, Mo must enter a world she doesn’t know even exists, a world of raw magic and deal with people who aren’t everything they seem. Can she do it? No spoilers here!

O’Rourke has created characters and a story line that is made believable with her masterful crafting. Mo seems likes any other high school senior you might actually meet on the street and the dialogue between characters flows with reality even in the face of the unbelievable.

This book was provided to me free of charge by Kensington Publishing Corp for an honest review. The opinions are my own.

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2011-08-26T17:18:00.001-05:00

The Canary List: A Novel by Sigmund Brouwer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Title: The Canary List
Author: Sigmund Brouwer
Publisher: Waterbrook Press

The Canary List is a masterfully crafted, chilling, and thought-provoking story written by Sigmund Brouwer about a twelve-year old girl named Jaimie Piper who has no difficulty detecting evil in people.

Jaime is a twelve-year old girl that has been in and out of foster homes since she was an infant. Due to her attitude and behavior she has been placed in classes for challenged students where she comes in contact with, teacher, Crockett Grey. Crocket has his on agenda in the beginning; he just wants to relive the anniversary of his daughter’s death. But that is not to be. Jaimie comes to him terrified and begging for his help which starts them on a downward spiral of bizarre events that leads them to the Vatican.

I will definitely pass this book on to others with a recommendation for reading. Mr. Brouwer grabbed my attention and kept it throughout the book with his masterful crafting of the story web.

The Canary List was provided by Waterbook Press free of charge for an honest review. The opinions in this review are my own.

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Gamadin Book 4 - Gazz by Tom Kirkbride

2011-07-22T12:44:00.001-05:00

Gazz by Tom Kirkbride

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gamadin Book IV: Gazz by Tom Kirkbride is about a group of people from the 54th Century that are part of a very special ancient police force of the cosmos called Gamadin. The sole mission of Gamadin is to defend the the freedom an happiness of all peaceful planets everywhere regardless of origin or wealth.

This fourth book has the Gamadin trying to save a 16th Century planet called Gazz. All life on this planet is about to be wiped out by a lethal gamma ray burst and Gamadin must use the force field of their ship, the Milliwanda, to help save the planet. But, there is a problem and the ship loses power because it is sucked dry by saving Gazz. The ship has to be landed on this 16th century planet while the crew attempts to find a fuel source to get the Milliwanda back into space. I am not going to give any spoilers here.

Now, I didn't read the first three books of this series, but I had no trouble whatsoever reading book 4. It is a standalone story even though it part of a series. I have to say, I love fantasy stories and this one is no different. It has a lot of tight moments for the crew of the Milliwanda and many interesting events occur.

I would recommend to anyone that likes fantasy pick this up and read it. I am even going back and get the other three books so I can read the entire series.

I received this book through Library Thing's Early Readers Program. The opinion expressed in this review is my own honest opinion.

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The Bronze and the Brimstone (Verona Trilogy #2) - Lory S. Kaufman

2011-07-14T08:26:00.003-05:00

The Bronze and the Brimstone by Lory S. Kaufman

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is so good I finished it in one day....I just couldn't put it down! Awesome! Can't wait for the the next book!!!

I would like to point out at this time....I don't give 5 stars unless the book is life changing in some way....if I give a book 4 stars....it is pretty awesome.

Title: The Bronze and the Brimstone (Verona Trilogy #2)
Author: Lory S. Kaufman
Publisher: The Fiction Studio

The Bronze and the Brimstone is the second book in the series of the Verona Trilogy by Lory S. Kaufman. This book picks up right where the first book, The Lens and the Looker, ends. Hansum, Shamira, and Lincoln are three teens that are from the 24th century and are trapped in the 14th century Verona, Italy.

The teens have experienced and survived many dangerous instances and have been noticed by the rich and powerful of the day by introducing futuristic technology into the past. In the book, Kaufman weaves the teens through many dangerous trials and tribulations and we watch them all grow and mature into responsible adults. Ok…they are still teens, but remember they are in the 14th century and things are much harder then and people grew up a lot faster. This book ends when the Black Death was sweeping across the area. Kaufman gives us an unexpected twist at the end of this book that makes us want to read the next one!

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who loves sci-fi, fantasy fiction. But let me say this….it is historical. Both book 1 & 2 are set in Verona Italy in the 14th century. Up to this point there hasn’t been a lot of information given about the 24th century except in the first few little chapters of book 1. However, I’m fine with that. I love historical fiction!

BTW…there is a third book (hence trilogy). It is called The Loved and the Lost…and I CANNOT wait to get my hands on a copy!!!!

DISCLAIMER: This book was provided to me through the Goodreads First Reads Program for an honest review whether positive or negative.

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2011-07-13T10:32:00.002-05:00

The Lens and the Looker by Lory S. Kaufman

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Title: The Lens and the Looker
Author: Lory S. Kaufman
Publisher: The Fiction Studio

The Lens and the Looker is the first book in a trilogy by Lory S. Kaufman. I won the second book from Goodreads and didn't want to read it until I had read the book 1.

This book is about 24th century humans that with the help of artificial intelligence have created the perfect post-dystopian society. In this book we first meet with three teenagers Hansum who is almost 17, Shamira who is 15, and Lincoln who is 14. These three are what the elders in the 24th century call "hard cases" and have elected to send them to History Camp where they can learn some valuable lessons. However, while at History Camp the teens are kidnapped by a rogue ex-elder of History Camp and actually taken back into the past to 1347 in Verona, Italy. These teens have two choices at this point. They can either adapt to the lifestyle or die.

I'm not going to give any spoilers...but let me tell you...after i got past the first few pages that seemed a little slow for me..I didn't want to put this book down. The characters are so well-developed that I could visualize them taking part int he activities described in the story. I would definitely recommend this book.

Oh yeah.....and now I can grab the The Bronze and the Brimstone (the 2nd of the series) and begin to read more about the three teanagers and their adventures.

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this review are my honest opinion.

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Leading With Soul by Lee G. Bolman & Terrence E. Deal

2011-07-11T15:22:00.002-05:00

Leading With Soul: An Uncommon Journey of Spirit by Lee G. Bolman

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Title: Leading With Soul
Authors: Lee G. Bolman & Terrence E. Deal
Publisher: Jossey-Bass

In the book, Leading With Soul: An Uncommon Journey of Spirit, Bolman and Deal use a contemporary parable of a business leader named Steve, a conflicted executive who seeks counsel from Maria, a spiritual director. Maria assists Steve in a journey of awakening to his own inner world of soul and feelings. As Steve begins to get deeper into the personal aspects of himself he begins to change and so does his style of leadership. As he brings feelings into the workplace it is difficult at first but as time goes by the results are positive not only for Steve, but for his employees and company.

This story of Steve and Maria is told during the course of several meetings. With each of these visits Maria helps Steve recognize the importance of his own spirit that he has ignored. Between each of his visits with Maria, Steve struggles with himself and tests the ideas he's learned from Maria. With each meeting he describes the outcomes of his previous experiments. These outcomes are not always successful. But Maria assures him that change doesn’t come easy.

Maria knows that she must help Steve understand that the spirit is in everything around us. She uses nature to begin the transformation of Steve within himself. Throughout the book Maria explains the four gifts she believes are the answer for working with others effectively. These four gifts are love, authorship, power, and significance. Between visits with Maria, Steve tackles giving the gifts on his employees to get a deeper understanding of them. Steve learns is that timing is critical when learning about and using these gifts with others if you want them accepted. With love he found that it combines caring and compassion and must be shown in both good times and bad. Steve realizes that with authorship he must give his employees the ability to take on responsibility so there can be a sense of accomplishment that is so important for job satisfaction. He also comes to realize that he needs to empower his employees so they feel some autonomy in getting things done. Now he sees how power is one of the important gifts that Maria has talked about in their meetings. The fourth gift of significance, Steve discovered on his own when an anniversary celebration went awry. He realized after talking with Maria that significance blends ritual, spontaneity, and celebration and it is an importance aspect of creativity sharing on the job.

What appeared to be Steve's hardest lesson, however, is that of passing the torch. By story's end, Maria has become gravely ill and has died. Now, Steve must continue on his journey of self-exploration and growth by himself. Even more importantly, he must carry on the work of sharing the four gifts and showing others the importance of leading with soul.

Through out the book Maria is telling Steve that we must all make our own way and not put someone else in charge of our spiritual journey. We must recognize and trust the power within ourselves, and be ready for the new growth. I have not been to any management or leadership programs but according to the authors most of these programs ignore or demean spirit. The authors talk about infusing the leadership programs with spirit filled forms of such things as poetry, literature, art, music, history, philosophy, and dance. If this was done individuals would be able to reclaim their hearts, soul, and spirits. Then they could share their gifts from the heart.

Now for my response to the book. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book. The sole reason this one got chosen over the other two is simply because I found this one on eBay for one dollar. I have since bought the other two and will read them next. I really enjoyed this book. It was in an easy to read format and very easy to understand. I really enjoyed being taken through Steve’s journey and his meetings with Maria. It made the whole learning experience feel almost like I was there with Steve learning at the same time. I am not in a leadership position but intend to use the gifts with my students this next school year because I believe it will work just as well for them as it will for adults in the workplace. I will give them love, authorship, power, and significance as I attempt to do it in the same fashion as Maria by allowing them to make their own way through the journey.

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Surviving the Serengeti:7 Skills to Master Business and Life by Stefan Swanepoel

2011-07-05T13:07:00.002-05:00

Surviving Your Serengeti: 7 Skills to Master Business and Life by Stefan Swanepoel
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Title: Surviving the Serengeti: 7 Skills to Master Business and Life
Author: Stefan Swanepoel
Publisher: Wiley Publishing

Looking back, I'm not quite sure what I expected when I agreed to review "Surviving your Serengeti: 7 skills to Master Business and Life." It bills itself as "A Fable of Self-Discovery," that teaches seven skills to business and life and who doesn’t want to learn more and better way to master life?

This book is a story of a couple caught up in today's economy crisis with job losses and business failures. The wife has won a trip through her employer and chooses the Serengeti as their destination. The husband reluctantly accompanies her but his mind is on his failing business back home. Once they have reached the Serengeti and the husband realizes there is no he accepts that he should enjoy the time away and forget about the troubles back home. During the book the husband meets an old college roommate, who is one of the owners of the camp, and he becomes engaged with the environment, the animals, and his college roommate who leads him into some self-evaluation by observing the animals of the Serengeti.

I was disappointed that the other two couples introduced in the first chapter turned out to be nothing more than the laying of background for the author. We didn’t see those two couples again until the end of the book where they seemed to be used as a sounding board for the two main characters.

The book discusses seven Serengeti animals and the survival skill(s) they posses that help them to not only survive but thrive. These skills are also necessary qualities that each of us as humans can possess but often don't know we have or else we never fully develop. I had some trouble equating some of the animal behaviors to human qualities. Overall, the analogies really didn’t work well in my mind, at least not for me.

I was provided this book by the publisher through BookSneeze for an honest and unbiased review. The opinions are my own.

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Cascade: A Novel (River of Time Series) Lisa T. Bergren

2011-07-02T11:49:00.002-05:00

Cascade by Lisa Tawn Bergren

My rating: 4 of 5 stars<

TITLE: Cascade: A Novel
AUTHOR: Lisa T. Bergren
PUBLISHER: David C. Cook

Cascade: A Novel is book two in The River of Time series by Lisa T. Bergren. The first book in this series is Waterfall. This book begins exactly where Waterfall left off at the end of the book. So..if you haven’t read Waterfall, the first in the series…you definitely want to read it first.

Cascade starts with an exciting adventure. Ms. Bergren brought back the characters you loved in Waterfall and introducing new characters as well. The characters are instantly alive on the pages and face some severe challenges congruent with medieval Italy. The plot is strong and riveting. The characters are life-like and along with their action and adventures it keeps you turning those pages for more.

Cascade has not let me down. It is just as good, if not better than the first in the series (Waterfall). I am so in love with this series it isn’t even funny. I can't wait for TORRENT, book 3 in the River of Time Series to come out on September 1, 2011

Now to get my paws on TORRENT!!!!

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Waterfall: A Novel (River of Time Series) Lisa T. Bergren

2011-07-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

TITLE: Waterfall: A Novel
AUTHOR: Lisa T. Bergren
PUBLISHER: David C. Cook

Waterfall: A Novel is the first book in The River of Time series by Lisa T. Bergren. Ms. Bergren is an accomplished adult romance writer, but Waterfall is her first historical romance for teens. The Bettarini sisters are the focus of Waterfall. Join the sisters, Gabriella and Evangelia, as they travel back through time and find themselves in medieval Italy.

Waterfall is an exciting adventure and enchanting love story that is irresistible. Readers are transported on a journey back in time to a world where honor and nobility go hand-in-hand with cruelty and violence. This was a time when men were the protectors, and where danger could be found around every corner. .

If you looking for a great historical with lots of action, funny remarks and a love worth dying for, read Waterfall. This book is awesome. The characters are life-like and it is easy to relate to them. Ms. Bergren has written a plot so strong it rivets you to your chair. You do not want to stop reading. Every twist and turn of the plot, has you gasping, wanting more and pulling you into the reality of the plot. I can't wait to read the second book which I have ready and waiting to begin.

Did I mention just how much I LOVED this book???

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this review are my own.

Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find Your Path Back to Health by William Davis, MD

2011-06-30T20:58:00.002-05:00

Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find Your Path Back to Health by William Davis MD

My rating: 4 of 5 stars<

TITLE: Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find Your Path
AUTHOR: William Davis, MD
PUBLISHER: Rodale Publishing

In Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find Your Path, Dr. Davis talks about the genetic engineering that has taken place with wheat and that it is not the wheat of our forefathers. How this wheat is now actually causing more harm than good. Dr. Davis believes that if we cut out all of the wheat products in our diet, even though the American Dietetic Society says...wheat is good, then we will notice a definite improvement in not only our physical health....but also in our mental clarity as well.

This is an easy to read book that gives you a lot information on what wheat is doing to our bodies. Dr. Davis doesn't just tell us that wheat is bad and stop eating it. He also lays out a plan for stopping along with providing sample menus and quite a few recipes to help you along in your quest for a wheat-free life. There are also several pages of references for research to back up his claims.

I am not sure where I stand on belief of this claim, however, I am going to do my own research by giving up wheat in all forms for at least 4 weeks and see what the outcome will be.

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DISCLAIMER: This book was provided to me free of charge from Net Galley for an honest review. The views express in this review are my own.

The 'What If' Guy by Brooke Moss

2011-06-30T17:01:00.002-05:00

The "What if" Guy by Brooke Moss

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

TITLE: The’What If’ Guy
AUTHOR: Brooke Moss
PUBLISHER: Entangled Publishing

In, ‘The ‘What If" Guy, Brooke Moss tells the story of a single mom who has lost her job and finds out her father is in the hospital. She reluctantly decides to return to her hometown to help her father until she gets back on her feet financially. Her twelve year old son is not happy about moving from the city to a very small town. But then, Autumn Cole isn’t too happy about returning to resume her role as the daughter of the town drunk. On her son’s first day at the new school, Autumn runs into an old love. Can he help her learn to forgive before it is too late?

This book is very entertaining but yet somehow feels like it could happen in real-life. Brooke Moss created fully developed characters with just the right touch of both internal and external conflict to keep the story moving along and keep the reader on the edge of their chair. This story was both happy and sad at times....fully riveting.

I would definitely recommend this book to all of my friends.

DISCLAIMER: This book was provided to me free of charge by Net Galley in return for an honest review. The opinions in this review are my own.

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13 Books to Read

2011-06-23T08:23:00.002-05:00

I decided to participate in Thursday 13 today and thought I would list the 13 books waiting for me to read.
1. Wearing the Cape by Marion G. Harmon
2. Friends of Choice by Linda Nelson
3. Love, Lust, & Petty Crimes by Hercules Bantas
4. Barbary Point by Alan Nayes
5. Laying the Odds by J. R. Tomlin
6. The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck by Kathleen Y'Barbo
7. The Bronze and the Brimstone by Lory S. Kaufman
8. The Lens and the Looker
9. Isle of Stumps by Bryan R. Dennis
10. Leading With Soul by L. G. Bolman & T. E. Deal
11. The Great American Novel by Eliot Stafford
12. Flight to Paradise by Mike Coe
13. Divergent by Veronica Roth

OK...these are all the books that I got in my mailbag this week..

For more lists of Thirteen visit.....Thursday Thirteen

Storm Born #1 & #2 - Graphic Novel - Richelle Mead

2011-06-21T16:27:00.003-05:00

Dark Swan Storm Born Comic by Richelle Mead

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first time hearing about the Storm Born series. However, it is so colorful and enticing that I am looking forward to reading more.

Eugenie has the ability to send the "gentry" back to where they belong. Her father who is now retired has taught her well but still worries about her. He still provides her with much information, help, and a source of inner strength.

The only flaws I saw with the book is that some of the flow of dialogue and such seemed to be confusing at times.
I have not read this series before and some of the scenes didn't seem to have enough to flesh it out. It really seems to me there is more to the scenes that what is seen in this graphic novel.

Once finished with this one, I immediately went on and read the 2nd in the series as this was so short. I am looking forward to reading the books these comics evolved from.

and
Richelle Mead's Storm Born issue #2 regular cover by Richelle Mead

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book picked right up where book 1 left off. So, we still have Eugenie fighting otherworldly creatures. In this book Eugenie further contemplates whether she will cross over to the other world to try and save the young girl that has been kidnapped.

Eugenie learns that her new "love" has some things to hide...but she isn't sure yet what the things are. She has noticed an increase in the other world inhabitants that seem to have taken an increased interest in her sexually.

I think the second issue of Storm Born is better than the first as it allows the reader to learn more about Eugenie and how she thinks.

I look forward to reading more in this series.
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Alone and Alive by Janet Boyanton - A Review

2011-06-20T11:13:00.002-05:00

Alone and Alive: A practical guide for dealing with the death of your Husband by Janet Boyanton

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alone and Alive a practical guide for dealing with the death of your husband by Janet Boyanton is one of the most useful and down to earth self-help books that I have read in quite a while. Boyanton is a practicing probate attorney in Texas and writes about how her life was changed in an instant when her husband died suddenly.

In Alone and Alive, Boyanton addresses such issues as finances, children’s grief, probate, living arrangement, legal documents and even dating. She not only gives her personal insights on these issues but also concrete advice on how to deal with the loss. Throughout the book, Boyanton repeats one particular piece of advice that she says she gives all of her clients and that is:

Wait a year before making life-changing decisions.

Another one of the fabulous facets of this book is that in the appendix of the book, Boyanton has provided many different worksheets and forms to assist in getting all of your affairs in order.

I know this book was written to help widows who have lost their husbands. However, mine is still very much alive and let me tell you….I feel this book is not only for the widows, but for all women who want to make sure they know what needs to be done in this situation. Reading Alone and Alive really got me to thinking. It is time for my husband and I too take a look at all of the legal issues….such as wills, probates in our state, etc.

I was provided with this book by Janet Boyanton through the Goodreads ‘First Reads’ program. I was not required to write a review, much less a favorable review. The views I have expressed here are my own.

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The Seraph Seal - A Review

2011-06-16T11:54:00.002-05:00

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksneeze.com in exchange for an honest review.

The Seraph Seal by Leonard Sweet

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Seraph Seal written by Leonard Sweet and Lori Wagner is an epic tale about the four horsemen and the Apocalypse of Revelation. This book is well over 400 pages long. However it is a fast-paced, gripping suspenseful novel with interesting characters and an amazing ending that is well-written. My only real complaint about the book is that it does something that I consider annoying and that is jumping back and forth between different areas of the world far too often. It isn't a book that you will sit down and read mindlessly...not if you want to keep up with the story line.

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The Secret Life of an Avid Reader: Live Blogging This Week From Lauren Kate's Passion...

2011-06-15T17:24:00.000-05:00

The Secret Life of an Avid Reader: Live Blogging This Week From Lauren Kate's Passion...: "Lauren Kate 's third book in the Fallen series, Passion, comes out tommorrow and as part of her promotional tour she will be stopping by Mi..."

Luminous Summer Grand Prize Giveaway!

2011-06-15T16:40:00.000-05:00

Check out this contest....this is one you will not want to miss!!

It's the Luminous Summer Grand Prize Giveaway! ARCs, bookmarks, buttons, candy, chocolate! http://t.co/Jw0CWyd Now thru June 30th.

Writers Gone Wild - A Review

2011-06-15T07:19:00.002-05:00

Writers Gone Wild: The Feuds, Frolics, and Follies of Literature's Great Adventurers, Drunkards, Lovers, Iconoclasts, and Misanthropes by Bill Peschel

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In Writers Gone Wild, Bill Peschel really captured the essence of several literary greats in humorous well-written essay formats that are so easy to read. Mr. Peschel has done a terrific job of finding those little bits of faux pas that the famous or near famous literary figures have been involved in. While each piece is designed to stand alone and could be read in a few short minutes, I sat down and read half of the book before putting it down. This book is truly funny and the little known facts we never heard in history class are priceless. I would definitely recommend this book.

DISCLAIMER: I won this book off a blog contest, however the views expressed in this review are my own.

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Enter to win Waterfall, Cascade, and some swag!

2011-06-12T13:43:00.001-05:00

Enter to win Waterfall, Cascade, and some swag!

This is an awesome contest.....Bunny says these books are fabulous!!! I for one....really want to read them! Come join in the contest!

Story Engineering: Mastering the 6 Core Competencies of Successful Writing - A Review

2011-06-10T16:55:00.002-05:00

Story Engineering Mastering the 6 Core Competencies of Successful Writing by Larry Brooks is a terrific guide for anyone looking to improve their written stories. This book gives you, the writer, the tools needed to make your story successful.

I’ve taken numerous college writing classes, story development courses and seminars, but this book is the most to the point and thorough explanation of story crafting that I’ve seen. In this book, Larry Brooks tells you what the 6 Core Competencies of Successful Writing are and explains each of them in detail. Throughout the book he uses different books and movies as examples of how the competencies were used and whether they were used properly or improperly.

I highly recommend Story Engineering to anyone who writes whether it is casually, educationally, or professionally. Larry Brooks lays out the essential elements of a story in a way that is easy to understand. Whether you want to get published or just express yourself better in a journal or your blog posts, Story Engineering can help you improve the way you write.
Disclaimer: I purchased my copy of this book and the views expressed in this review are my own.

"Missus Buck" by Katrina Parker Williams

2011-06-08T15:26:00.002-05:00

I was friended over on GoodReads today by author Katrina Parker Williams. She offered me a short story that she had written and I accepted. Boy am I glad I did. This story is really good. Be sure to check it out!

You can check out her blog HERE

Go "LIKE" here fan page on FaceBook HERE

Missus Buck by Katrina Parker Williams

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thank you Katrina for the opportunity to read this wonderful story.

"Missus Buck" is one of those old slave days stories that will set your teeth on edge. Ms Brandenburg, Missus Buck as the slaves called her,acted quite typically of the way slave owners would have behaved. I loved that the story is told from the view point of one of the slaves. This is a short story that keeps you reading and I'm not going to give away any spoilers here....but talk about a perfect way to end a story. Awesome!!

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Definitely a GOOD Read!!!!

Preternatura: YA Review & Contest: Enclave by Ann Aguirre

2011-06-03T07:06:00.000-05:00

Preternatura: YA Review & Contest: Enclave by Ann Aguirre: "Today, I welcome a guest reviewer, author Marie Andreas, who writes fantasy-romance-science fiction and combinations thereof from her home i..."

New Beginnings in the Future

2011-05-23T20:40:00.002-05:00

I know I haven't been here lately....I do so apologize...I am just posting a teaser tonight....because until the finalization is done....I really can't talk about the "New Beginnings".

Just know I will be back soon to fill you in on what is going on!

Until Next Time!!

ADSD April Blog Train

2011-03-31T22:00:00.003-05:00

It is that time again!!! Time for another ADSD Blog Train! There are 7 of us this month in the blog train....so be sure to stop by all the blogs and pick up your freebies. This blog train will run from April 1 through April 30.

Here is my portion of the blog train....hope you enjoy!!

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Be sure to visit the rest of these blogs for the other freebies.

Dee's Delightful Designs - YOU ARE HERE
Digi Cyber Scraps
Mardesia @ Crafter's Boutique
cardiologycreations
Kimberkatt Scraps
Pheonix Flower Creations
Digieyescraps

Enjoy the blog train!!

Until Next Time!!

Moo Two Birthday Blog Hop

2011-03-25T22:00:00.004-05:00

At Moo Two Designs we are celebrating Miss Moo's birthday by having a blog hop and many activities on the site....so grab all these offerings on the blogs and then go by the site and join in all the fun activities.

Here is my portion of the blog train:

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Make sure to visit the rest of these blogs for the rest of these FABULOUS freebies.

Scrapz 'n Bitz Designs
Happy Scrap Arts
Dee's Delightful Designs - YOU ARE HERE!!
KatLen Kreations
LoobyLoo
AuntRachel
Lizard Dau Designs
RoseMade Designs
Stylista Lori
ValarieRog
SandEz Creationz
Sanko Studio
Heckenzwerge Designs
Panda Bear Designs
Teenybop Scraps
Moo Two Designs

I hope you enjoy all these fabulous FREEBIES.....and don't forget to stop by the site for a lot more fun!!!

Until Next Time!!

Let's Party!!!!

2011-03-21T18:13:00.001-05:00

We are having a party for Miss Moo over at Moo Two Designs.....come on over and join the fun March 24 - 31st!!!!

In celebration of Miss Moo's birthday, 18 designers got together and we are having a blog hop....so come on back on March 26th and download all the goodies.

Oh Yeah!!! I almost forgot to mention....along with the party and the blog hop....we are also having a sale....You will not want to miss this event!!!

Until Next Time!!

Tootin' the Horn for ActionFX today & a FREEBIE

2011-03-16T12:25:00.006-05:00

Folks...if you haven't joined ActionFX....you really should do it....it is the best investment I have made for my digi designing needs....probably would be for you as well!! With digi scrappers getting more and more discerning....all the brushes and shapes available from ActionFX...you can make tons of UNIQUE elements and secure your customer base.

Check this out:

LIMITED TIME MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL - 1 Year Membeship, including ALL Downloads (140,000+) for $39.95

Now Hosting 142,000 Photoshop, PSE and Digiscrap Tools. Download ....EVERYTHING with membership - Commercial Use OK.

Did I tell you already.....this IS the BEST investment I could have ever made!!!!

Now....I used an action that I got from ActionFX to create your freebie pack today....this action will make 235 papers....that's right folks...I said 235.....and you can get this action by becoming a member of ActionFX!! Now what a cool deal that is!!

OK...here is a preview of the FREEBIE for you today!

DOWNLOAD

If you like the FREEBIE...please leave a comment...I just love reading all of the comments!!

Until Next Time!!

Spring Break Sale & a FREEBIE

2011-03-14T12:02:00.005-05:00

It is Spring Break here and I am so happy that I have decided to have a sale. So...through March 20th you can get any of my kits for 40% off the regular price...even the ones you get right here off my blog. You can also purchase my kits through sKrap Happens and Moo Two Designs. There are some differences in kits in both my stores. I do hope to have both stores the same soon.

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I also would like to remind everyone about the April Blog Train for ADSD that is in the works right now. It is set to go live on April 1 and will be available until April 30, 2011. We would love for more aspiring or established designers to participate. If you are interested, come on over to ADSD and sign up in the thread to let us know you will participate. Your contribution to the blog train doesn't have to be big....and aspiring designers....you don't have to be well-known to participate. This is a great way to get your designs and your name out there. So come on by and help us out.

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Don't forget about the charity kit that the sKrap Happens designers and members created to help out the New Zealand earthquake victims called "Phoenix". You can purchase this HUGE mega kit for only $10....and if you purchase before March 31....you will also receive the March site collab "Fantasia" FREE! Now you can't beat that deal!!

Here is the charity kit "Phoenix"

and this is "Fantasia" the site's March collab that you can get for FREE with the purchase of "Phoenix"

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I have a little freebie for you today....hope you enjoy it! I love to see comments on my blog just like anyone else....so if you are so inclined...leave me a short comment.

DOWNLOAD

Until Next Time!!

New Zealand Earthquake Charity Collab - PHOENIX

2011-03-11T15:22:00.002-06:00

"PHOENIX" is now in the shop at sKrap Happens. Come on over purchase this beautiful.....HUGE.....MEGA kit. The proceeds are going for a good cause!

“You can knock down a building but you can’t knock down our people. They will dust themselves off and get back up again.”

This quote was made after the earthquake in New Zealand, February 22, 2011. So is the Phoenix as it rises out of the ashes to live again.

The designers and some of the members at sKrapHappens have created this massive kit entitled “Phoenix” as a way to help our sisters and brothers in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Phoenix comes to you with over 100 beautifully, textured papers at 300 dpi and sized at 12 X 12 in jpeg format, over 200 gorgeous elements,17 beautifully created Word Art and 2 Alphas.

Phoenix can be yours for a donation of $10.00. It is our way of extending a helping hand…a heart of love. All monies will be given to Samaritan’s Purse and earmarked for Christchurch, New Zealand Earthquake Disaster Relief.

Generous Donations by: Froggypond Designs, North Country Girl Creations, Studio4 Designworks, Card-i-ology Creations, Rumki Designs, Pamela Yates Designs, Chunlin Designs, Plumbgone Nutz Designs, Dee's Delightful Designs, This n' That by Donakat, Sheryl Cody, Terri Carter, On My Own Designs, His Kid Kreations, Ohana Designs, Monkey Face Designs, and Kimberkatt Scraps.

Until Next Time!

ADSD April Collab

2011-03-06T07:45:00.004-06:00

Friends....we have voted on the color palette and title for our April collab over at ADSD. If you are a designer.....new or veteran....come on over....grab the palette....pop on over to the thread and let us know you will be joining us this month.

Designers....we all know that having freebies on our blogs....increases traffic....your contribution doesn't have to be huge.....you could use this in conjunction with the release of a new kit.

Here is the palette we are using this month....it is so spring like and I think gorgeous! I can just see all the beauty coming from this little palette.

The title of this blog train will be........Spring Fling....

Come on over and join us....we would love to have you....you know what they say.....THE MORE THE MERRIER!!!!

Until Next Time!

New Zealand Earthquake Relief Collab

2011-02-26T07:55:00.007-06:00

We at sKrap Happens have decided that we wanted to do something to help the victims of the recent New Zealand earthquake. The designers and several of our members have got together and chosen a palette and are currently working on getting a super HUGE Mega collab together where all of the proceeds will go to the Samaritan's Purse. Below is the post from the thread over at sKrap Happens.

here IS something we can do -- we can quickly put together a charity kit and name it Phoenix (as in rising from the ashes).... anyone and everyone can contribute. We'll then send ALL proceeds (I will not deduct the paypal fees) to an organization that will help these people get their lives back. If anyone knows of such an organization, please check them out to make sure they are legitimate and let me know. Then we will all need to advertise this wherever we got on the 'net.

NAME OF KIT: PHOENIX

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION: MARCH 5

CHARITY: SAMARITAN'S PURSE (specifically for New Zealand victims)

Shelby suggested 3 somethings each -- if you want to do more, that's terrific.

Anyone and everyone can contribute

SKrap Happens designers will upload to the charity ftp; all others will PM Dee with their 4shared/mediafire links and she will handle it from there.

THEME would be new beginnings, hope, friendship

This palette reflects sky, ocean, sand, and green plants

This is the palette that we have chosen.

Please.....if you can help at all......join us in this great mission.

Until Next Time!!

ADSD Moonlight & Roses Blog Train

2011-02-14T00:00:00.004-06:00

Sorry Link Expired

Other stops along the blog train:

http://thecelticbutterfly.blogspot.com/
http://munchkynscraps.com/
http://www.digicyberscraps.com

We are trying to get ADSD back in the swing of things. This particular blog train is a little late but will run for the entire 30 days. Please enjoy all the parts available.

If you are a newbie designer and want to get some exposure this is a terrific way to get your name and kits out in the public eye. We would also love to have the more established designers as well as anyone in between the two to jump in and participate...everyone knows the more the participants....the better the blog train. I don't know any designer who can afford to stop advertising and this is a terrific way to do that.

Stop on by ADSD...we are in the planning stages for our next blog train and we would love to have you join us!

Until Next Time!!

NEW Kits in Stores

2011-02-10T17:51:00.004-06:00

I have been a busy little bee....I have a few new kits that have been added to both my stores....sKrap Happens and Moo Two Designs. All three kits are on sale until February 18, 2011...Stop by and pick them up!

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Don't forget starting Monday, February 14, 2011....some designers at ADSDesigners will have a blog train rolling....You will not want to miss those freebies.

Until Next Time!!!

ADSDesigner News

2011-02-05T14:43:00.003-06:00

We are attempting to revive ADSdesingers. For those of you that don't know, ADSD is a website that has been around for a little while....it has gone through several changes as different people took over. However the idea behind the site has remained the same. It is a place for aspiring designers and designers to get together and chat if they like....but the site also gives a venue for the possibility of getting your designs out for everyone to see.

We will be doing a blog train every other month. This month we are doing one that will post on February 14, 2011 - called Moonlight & Roses and I really need some more people to sign up to make a small contribution to the blog train....just a couple papers and a few elements..doesn't have to be huge.

If you are willing to commit to this....please come on over to ADSD and pick up the color palette and put your blog address in the thread.

Until Next Time!!

February Happenings at sKrap Happens

2011-02-03T17:40:00.003-06:00

January is gone and February is here and we have a lot going on over at sKrap Happens this month.

We will be announcing the winners of Latte Supreme contest for our site CT members on Saturday. So be sure and stop by to congratulate the winners. It is really going to be a hard decision because all of the ladies have created some awesome layouts throughout this 3 week contest.

Our new February challenges are up and ready for everyone to begin playing....actually some of us have already been creating layouts for the challenges....even me! OK...so I created 2 layouts because I host 2 of the challenges....but one of the layouts I created was for someone else's challenge....it is a challenge that is hosted by Tina of Card-i-ology Creations and she calls her challenge.....Mission Possible. Check out my layout for this one.

Then there is the layout that I did for my font challenge that I call Frappuccinno Font....this month we are using the font - Scriptina....it is just perfect for all those "LOVE" layouts! Check it out...

My other challenge.....Java Journaling incorporates my love of writing....I just love to journal on my pages.....check this one out...

Come on by sKrap Happens and join in the fun. You can earn "coffee beans" for doing the challenges and then trade in the "coffee beans" for a coupon to spend in our shop.

Until Next Time!!

Moo Two Design Happenings

2011-02-01T16:29:00.002-06:00

Some of you may know that I host a challenge over at Moo Two Designs....where it just so happens that I also have a store. The challenge I host is called Fireside Tales and this month we are using the list method of journaling. Drop by Moo Two Designs and check out this challenge as well as the many others that are being hosted by others.

Here is the layout that I created as an example for this challenge.

While we are talking about Moo Two Designs....let me tell you what a super fantastic collab all the designers created for February. In this collab there are 121 papers and 212 elements and they are all just gorgeous!! Drop by and check the Heart Throb collab. 50% of the proceeds raised from the sale of this kit will be donated to the Heart Foundation, so please support us. Right now you can get this FABULOUS mega kit for only $5.00. But hurry....the sale ends on February 28, 2011.

Don't forget....go pick up this AWESOME mega kit now for $5.00....the sale ends February 28, 2011.

Until Next Time!!!

Today is my Spotlight Day at sKrap Happens

2011-01-17T13:41:00.003-06:00

During our grand opening over at sKrap Happens all of the designers are getting a day to be spotlighted so everyone can get to know them better. TODAY is my day!!!

So if you come on over to the spotlight thread and tell me which kit of mine you is your favorite....then you can get a 50% off coupon to my store to spend on $10.00 or more.

Also, I have posted a challenge here.....and you have until January 19, 2011 at 11:59 pm EST to get it done and you will receive a little mini kit that I made just for my spotlight day....the kit is called Awaiting Spring.

Here is the kit you will receive if you complete the challenge.

I hope to see you at sKrap Happens!!!

Until Next Time!!!

Only 2 More Days to Sign Up!!!

2011-01-13T06:36:00.003-06:00

You only have today and tomorrow left to sign up for this awesome Latte Supreme contest. sKrap Happens is looking for 8 site CT members.

Do you love to digi scrap?

Do you love to make new friends?

Do you love to get feedback on your LOs?

Do you love to get free kits?

If you answered....yes to any of these questions....then you need to come on over to sKrap Happens and join in the contest. We would love to have you!!

We are a friendly and very chatty group of people....who happen to love to digi scrap....sKrap Happens really is a special place to be!

For more information on the Latte Supreme Contest....just click HERE.

We'll see you there!!

Until Next Time!

Happy Birthday, Michael!!

2011-01-11T20:56:00.003-06:00

This Lo says it all....I love you, Michael!!!!

Latte Supreme Contest - sKrap Happens

2011-01-11T05:49:00.003-06:00

sKrap Happens....the newest going concern in the scrapbooking sites is having a contest to fill their 8 site CT positions. If you love getting free kits, meeting people, and scrapping....come on over and join in the Latte Supreme contest.

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As your freebie today....I have pulled out one of my older kits that is retired. It is called Caden's Dream. I hope you enjoy playing with it. This freebie will only be available until January 14, 2011. I will deactivate the link after that. So get it while you can.

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Don't forget.....come on over to sKrap Happens and join in the Latte Supreme Contest....be one of the 8 creative team members for the site. I will be so much fun!!

Until Next Time!

Moo Two Designs Designer & CT Call

2011-01-09T04:00:00.001-06:00

Yes you read it right. Moo Two Designs is having both a Designer and a CT call. Check it out!

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Take a look at the current months collab by the Moo Two design team....This is one Fabulous Huge kit! Check out this huge collab - Barnyard Buddies.

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We have had such a great time over at the new scrapbooking site....sKrap Happens today. There have been so many old friends that showed up that many of us haven't talked to in a while.

The Grand Opening continues until January 31, 2011 and I urge you to come on over and check it out. You will be glad you did.

There are many challenges, games, and prizes.

Now not only are we having our Grand Opening at sKrap Happens....but we are also gearing up for a CT contest to get out Latte Supremes....if you are interested....come on over and sign up.

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I have a small FREEBIE for you today. I hope you enjoy it. I call it Summer Harvest.

DOWNLOAD

Until Next Time!!!

sKrap Happens Grand Opening

2011-01-08T08:39:00.003-06:00

The Grand Opening at sKrap Happens has begun!

If you are looking for a friendly site to make new friends and get tons of scrapping done...or just to chat and have some fun....come on over and join us!

Our Grand Opening will last until January 31, 2011 and we have so many challenges, games, and other activities planned that you will certainly find something that interests you.

Most, if not all, of the Grand Opening challenges are giving away mini kits as FREEBIES just for participating in the challenges.

Just for joining the site, you are entered into a Grand Prize drawing for GC (gift certificates) from our shop.

We have something for everyone......so hop on over to sKrap Happens and join the fun!

Sorry.....no freebie here today.....but you can get quite a few by coming to the sKrap Happens Grand Opening. See you there!!

Until Next Time!

sKrap Happens Grand Opening Only 2 Days Away!

2011-01-06T04:00:00.001-06:00

You bet I'm still talking about it. This is going to be the event of the year.....we are going to have so much fun...playing, scrapping, and chatting. Make sure you set aside some time to join us....all of the designers will be giving away kits during this event!

As a bonus.....we have a "Bring A friend" prize. Everyone that signs up on the site and has a friend sign up saying you recommended them to the site....both of you will get a huge collab created by the sKrap Happens design team called "A Place to Call Home". Have a peek at this kit you can get for FREE!

Now.....don't you want to "Bring a Friend" and get this kit for FREE???

See you over at sKrap Happens on Saturday!!

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I have another FREEBIE for you today....I was playing around and came up with this paper pack......I hope you enjoy it!!!

DOWNLOAD

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Hope everyone has a great day!!

Until Next Time!!

Moo Two Designs is Having a CT Call

2011-01-04T04:00:00.001-06:00

If you are interested, would like to know more or would like to apply, then please contact our CT Manager, Tina Bentley at ctmanager@mootwodesigns.com

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I really don't like to whine....but does it really take a huge amount of time to give feedback to someone giving you a freebie....I don't think so....I have had 1 ....yes one person give me feedback on my freebies....and since I know where she hangs out...maybe I should just give her my stuff.

I told someone this morning that my Mom taught me all my life...that "if you can't say something nice...then don't say anything at all." I even told this person that I thought it was a good thing to live by.....but .....my Mom also taught me that if someone GIVES you something...you take the time to tell them thank you....to do otherwise would be rude.

I know we are all busy....but I take the time to make the freebie and get it posted....I'm just saying.......

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So....here is yet another freebie.....Hope you like it....maybe I'll get some feedback....probably I won't....but at least I got this off my chest.....

DOWNLOAD

I am still looking for a couple ladies to CT for me. All I ask is that you do 2 layouts per kit that you get and post them at 3 different sites....if you have a blog to post them on your blog. Not a real difficult job. If you are interested....drop me an email at dbibb5134@gmail.com and put CT Call in the subject line.

Until Next Time!!!

Time to go back to work for me

2011-01-03T05:00:00.003-06:00

Christmas break is over for me....got to head on back to the classroom and all the little kiddos. Got to try and impart some knowledge. Actually I use a lot of discovery learning and critical thinking in my classroom....I have that luxury that regular education teachers don't have since I teach Gifted/Talented students.
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I spent most of the day Sunday with my husband since I would be going back to work today. So, I didn't get much designing or scrapping done on Sunday. However, I did get one layout done...it was actually done on Saturday night.

I used my kit Hometown Christmas. The template I used was by ScrapznBitz Designs from Moo Two Designs...where she hosts the Tool Shed Template Challenge.

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I have a little FREEBIE for you today. It is a quick page that I made with a new kit called Paradise Blue. I hope you enjoy it!

DOWNLOAD

Until Next Time!!!

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-01T09:42:00.005-06:00

It is officially a new year and I just want to remind everyone about the new scrapbook site/shop that will have it's Grand Opening in 1 week....don't forget to mark your calendars so you can join in all the fun and excitement!

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With a new year almost always come the New Year's resolutions. Now, just so you know...I am not real big on resolutions...simply because I tend to slack and finally totally break everyone of them I have made before the end of February...sometimes way sooner than that.

However, I do have a few....let's not call them resolutions....let's call them DESIRES for a new year.

1. I want to eat healthier.... exercise more...and just be generally a more healthy
person.

2. I want to design at least 3 new kits per month to go into my stores. I'm not
looking for quantity...I'm looking for quality.

3. I want to make sure that I blog at least twice per week. I would like to do
more...but I am being realistic.

4. I want to scrap at least 1 layout per week....I really want to do at least 1
everyday....but I don't think I am being realistic with that desire.

5. I want to get 2 or 3 ladies or guys to be on my personal CT. If you are
interested...just email me at dbibb5134@gmail.com and put CT in the subject line.

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Ok...now that I have my DESIRES for 2011 out of the way....I host a challenge at Moo Two Designs called Fireside Tales. This challenge is all about journaling. You already know how I feel about resolutions....and we all know that you will see those challenges about doing a page with your New Year's Resolution...so I just HAD to be DIFFERENT....my challenge is to do a sort of 'year in review' type layout. Here is the example that I did:

I used my own kit Timeless Treasures and a font called Just Old Fashioned.

Now...this month I am also hosting the Chuck Wagon Challenge at Moo Two Designs...and since one of my DESIRES was to eat healthier....well...bet you see where this is going...my challenge is to find healthy main dish recipes...preferably that are quick and easy! Here is the page I did for that challenge.

I used Bon Appetit by LadyBug Creations and the font was again Just Old Fashioned...you get the idea I like this font!!

I am also hosting a font challenge at the new site....but since I haven't been given permission from the site owner to release the site address as yet...I will be good...however, here is the layout I made for that challenge.

I actually did this layout this morning! Now I used another of my kits called Hometown Christmas and a font called Cocktail Bubbly. This kit will be in the store sometime today.

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Now for your FREEBIE. This is the last installment of the Alphas.....there hasn't been much downloading of these alphas...I don't know if you all don't like them...if it was just because it was a holiday....or what....because I have no comments or emails giving me any feedback. I want to give FREEBIES that are wanted and used...so if you would just leave me a little feedback in the comments or send me an email letting me know what you think. I would really appreciate it!!

Today you will be getting the numbers and all the symbols.

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I look forward to hearing from all of you!!

Until Next Time!!!

My Oldest son is 33 today.....FREEBIE 4 U

2010-12-30T17:34:00.005-06:00

Thirty-three years ago my oldest son was born weighing 8 pounds 9 1/2 ounces and was 20 inches long. Of course, I thought he was the sweetest, most precious baby there ever was. In my eyes....and my sister's....and my mother's eyes....he was the most precious baby in the world....but he grew up. Then all of a sudden he wasn't the most precious thing I'd ever seen anymore. He turned into a spoiled child ...no I had nothing to do with that....then into a brain dead teenager....you know the type....wants what he wants and nothing else will do.....then he had a few years of clarity...where I thought the great adult would break through....but alas, it didn't happen until last year....now I can honestly say....that at 33 he is an adult. Gosh....It Is About Time!!!!

Now this layout doesn't show all the phases of him that I mentioned above....I wanted you to get the full benefit of what a real adult version of a JASON would look like.

I made the kit to scrap his birthday layout especially for him using his favorite colors....well he also said black and I don't think I used any black. So without further adieu......Here is my oldest....33 year old son.....Jason.

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Just a reminder.....but now there are only 8 days until that NEW scrapbooking site ....called sKrap Happens.....opens it doors to the public. There have been quite a few of us....some designers...some not....working very hard to get everything ready for YOU...so there would be a great time during the Grand Opening. Make sure you put it on your calendar to join us....January 8, 2011....at sKrap Happens.

See you there!!!!

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Now it is FREEBIE time....yesterday you got the uppercase letters for the Graffiti Alphas....and today you will be getting the lowercase letters. I hope you have as much fun playing with these as I had creating them.

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Don't forget to come back tomorrow for the final installment of the Graffiti Alphas....tomorrow you will receive a download with the numbers and symbols.

Until Next Time!!!

Woo Hoo!! I am Blogging 5 days in a row!! FREEBIE 4 U

2010-12-30T11:31:00.003-06:00

Well...well...well...look at me....could this be a trend...blogging something everyday??? I certainly hope so.

I must say...it was a little harder today because it is getting so close to Christmas break being over and my having to go back to work....Don't get me wrong....I love teaching....but it is WORK!!!! Don't ever let anyone tell you any different.

On a designing note....I have a couple more new kits that I need to get previews made and get them in my store at Moo Two Designs....can't sell them off my computer...at least I haven't figured out a way to do that yet....have you...if so, please tell me!!! I will get the previews posted as soon as I get them finished...maybe later today....most likely tomorrow...hey...that means I have something to blog about tomorrow...well go figure!!!

Just a reminder here folks......Only 9 more days and the NEW scrapbook site called sKrap Happens will be opening its doors with a 3 week Grand Opening. There will lots of challenges, games, and prizes....You will not want to miss this big event.

I've been playing around with doing some alphas using filters...styles, and such and today you benefit from my playing. Your FREEBIE today is the uppercase alphas of an alpha set I call Graffiti Alphas. The whole set includes a full set of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. Today you will be getting the uppercase alphas. Be sure to come back tomorrow for the lowercase alphas...and then on January 1 2011...you can get the numbers and symbols. See the preview below.

DOWNLOAD

Don't forget to mark your calendar for the Grand Opening of sKrap Happens on January 8, 2011...

Also, remember to come back here tomorrow for the next piece of the alpha set.

Until Next Time!!!

Happy Birthday Taylor!! & a FREEBIE 4 U

2010-12-29T10:53:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday, Taylor!!

Guess you are wondering who Taylor is....well he is one of my grandsons and he is 8 years old today!! Go Taylor!!! He lives in Washington state....loves anything Tony Hawk....yes he rides a skateboard, too...also loves transformers, bicycling, baseball, football, and soccer....oh and he is a boyscout, too! Here is a layout I did of him this morning using some of the items from a new kit I created just for his birthday.

Isn't he just the most handsome looking little fellow you ever saw....well at least I think so!!!

Taylor's Happy Birthday Kit will be available in my Moo Two Designs store by tomorrow.

Now Don't forget....that NEW Scrapbooking site.....sKrap Happens will be opening its doors on January 8, 2011 with tons of challenges, games, and prizes to keep you hopping. So be sure to stop on by and join in the fun. The Grand Opening will run for 3 weeks....so there will be plenty of time to get every prize we have available. See the advertisement below for more information.

Now I promised you a freebie....and a freebie is what you will get....I am going to offer you a quick page made from the layout that I did for Taylor's birthday....remember this qp is using some of the same items that are in my newly created kit just for Taylor's birthday.

Here is a preview of the Qp:

DOWNLOAD

Until Next Time!!!

Brand New Place to Play....& ...a FREEBIE 4 U

2010-12-28T08:34:00.002-06:00

Woo Hoo!!! Some friends of mine that have been together for quite a while have gone and done it! They have opened up their very own scrapbooking site and they are having their Grand Opening starting January 8, 2011 and continuing for 3 full weeks....now doesn't that sound like some fun????

You will not want to miss this Grand Opening!! There is so much going on....as you can see in the advertisement. So much fun to be had by all....oh and did I mention there are prizes for just about everything!!

OK...I promised you a freebie today and I have another QP from my re-vamped kit called Timeless Treasures.

DOWNLOAD

I would really love to see you at the new site when it opens...you will be very glad you joined us!!!

Until Next Time!!

Soon to be released kits..Oh...and a FREEBIE 4 U

2010-12-27T07:54:00.007-06:00

Good Morning all!!

The sun is shining here even though it is pretty cold outside.....but I am warm and toasty inside at my computer.

Can it really only be one more week before 2010 is gone! Where did the year go?? It seems like just yesterday I was trying to get accustomed to writing 2010 when writing the date on anything!

Oh well....I guess the old adage...."Time Flies" is very appropriate here.

Guess I should move on to the original idea for this post and show you my new releases.

This first kit is called Winter Wonderland and full of blues with a touch of green. It contains 8 textured, solid/patterned 12 X 12 papers with 12 elements all created at 300 dpi for optimal printing if doing hybrid projects.

The next kit is called Awaiting Spring....basically because that is exactly what I am doing....I really don't like cold weather. This kit includes 6 textured, solid/patterned 12 X 12 papers and 10 elements all created at 300 dpi.

Ok....I promised a freebie and this morning I am giving you a QP made using one of my older kits that has been revamped called Timeless Treasures...have a look at this kit.

Timeless Treasures (among other kits) is already in my store at Moo Two Designs and the others will be there today.

And the freebie I promised is here:

DOWNLOAD

Until Next Time........Happy New Year!!!!

Bad Blogger-ME....FREEBIE 4 U

2010-12-26T06:53:00.004-06:00

Yes.....that is me.....I've been a very BAD blogger. I haven't posted anything here since October. I should be duly ashamed of myself....and believe me....I am!!

There has been plenty going on in my life.....maybe I just didn't make the time to get on here...so I think I will try to schedule time to blog....this is NOT a New Year's resolution....because ....just like most people...I tend to break all of the ones I make about 2 - 3 weeks after the 1st....so we aren't going there with this.

I do have a legitimate excuse for staying away...at least I think it is...I have been helping some friends get a new scrapbooking site going....the site is up and running although we haven't opened to the public as yet.....so I can't tell you the name....but the site is going to be awesome and the GRAND OPENING will start on January 8, 2011....and run for 3 weeks. We will have lots of games, challenges, prizes....and tons of fun....I will be back later to let you know where this Fabulous NEW site is located....so you can all join in the fun!!

OK....I promised you a freebie due to my being such a bad blogger. I took one of my older kits and revamped it....I have really learned a lot more of the finer details about designing just in the past few months...thanks to some of the ladies over at Moo Two Designs...so here is your FREEBIE:

DOWNLOAD

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!!!

Until Next Time!!!!

A Dark & Scary Night Blog Train

2010-10-29T22:00:00.010-05:00

You want more of the story you have read from the other stops on the blog train...you say....well here is another installment....enjoy!!!

"As his head entered the box more small clawing hands grabbed at it, pulling at his hair and ears, he felt the sharp talons enter his nostrils, dig into his neck and shoulders. Even as his chest passed into the box Jacob was aware of the wet and warm, strangely comforting feeling spreading through the front of his trousers."

Now isn't that just really scary....but you will have to continue on your journey through the "Dark and Scary Night" blog train to read the rest!!

Here is the my portion of the the blog train. I truly hope you enjoy it!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Follow the rest of the Blog Train on around and pick up the rest of the pieces to this fabulous kit that these ladies have created just for you.....and have a very Happy Halloween!!!!

Donna - Moo Two Blog
Happy Scrap Arts
Scrapz 'n Bitz Designs
KatLen Kreations
MagsGraphics
Panda Bear Designs
This be me Scraps
RoseMade Designs
Dee's Delightful Designs (YOU ARE HERE)
Lizard Dau Designs
GAP Scraps(BLOG TRAIN SCRAP OFF)

**story used on the blog train is "The Cry" by D.B. Adams**

Until Next Time!!!

Moo Two Halloween Blog Train- Coming Soon!!

2010-10-28T16:22:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to give everyone a "heads up" and a reminder...that this is going to be one of the best blog trains ever....so mark it on your calendar and be sure to join us!!

Until Next Time!!!

Halloween At Moo Two

2010-10-24T07:08:00.003-05:00

Looking for something to do over Halloween?

We are having a fun filled, wacky weekend of games here at Moo Two starting
Saturday 30th October and ending Sunday 31st October.

Massive Store Sale; Blog Train; Scary Bingo ; SpeedScraps; Headhunter's
Delight; Guess Who; Trick or Treat Hunt; Halloween Recipe Challenge.

and loads more.....

**************************************
MEGA HALLOWEEN STORE SALE

Don't miss the fantastic store sale at Moo Two Designs

Two days Only

75 % off

****************************************
MOO TWO HALLOWEEN BLOG TRAIN

Come on over for a wild ride on the Moo Two Blog Train.

Wonderful free gifts to be had

Starts on the Moo Two Blog - Saturday 30th October, 2010

You Don't Want to Miss This One!

Until Next Time!!!

Do You Like games??? I know I do!!! Check this out!

2010-10-15T16:34:00.002-05:00

Brand NEW Store
Brand NEW Owners

Can't tell you who the owners are just yet....or the name of the store....but I have known these people for quite some time and I am one of the original designers of the store.....

We are looking for both established designers,
as well as new designers.
Requirements are fairly simple BUT
participation in the forums is a must!

The owners are fabulous and sooo easy to get along with....I really love being on this site and so will you!

GREAT perks for joining BEFORE the site goes public.
More info will be given out after you have applied.

If you’d like to work for a store that wants to work for you as well, send an email to: designer_call@yahoo.com

Please include: links to stores you currently sell at, blogs, or any place we can see your work. Don‘t be shy, this is not a competition, we want YOU!

A site for friends, conversation, and a whole
lotta scrappin’

Come on.....check it out....send that e-mail....what have you got to lose.....NOTHING....because if you send it...you will see all the benefits!!!

Do You Love FREEBIES..Most Importantly...Do You Want Some FREEBIES??

2010-09-25T06:55:00.005-05:00

I know I do! I have a whole collection of FREEBIES that I have collected along with the ones that I have made and given away since I've been digital scrapbooking.....and I'm sure you do too!!

I don't have a personal FREEBIE for you today...BUT.....I happen to know of a site that has quite a few FREEBIES in their gallery for the taking......it is Moo Two Designs. They are hosting a Designer Contest Right Now and there are some FABULOUS looking Vintage Christmas kits just hanging out in the gallery waiting to be downloaded.

The catch is.....You must register at the site....it only takes a few moments....and....Please leave some love behind when you take the kits....it means a lot to the person that made it...they are in a contest and need all the love they can get. Also, Please go HERE and vote for your two (2) FAVORITE kits...like I said....it is a CONTEST....we are all out here trying to get votes for all these BRAVE designers that jumped into this contest.

Take a look at this advertisement....it was made with some of the items that you will find in the kits. Isn't it just scrumptious looking??

When you download these gorgeous kits....PLEASE take a moment to leave some love and VOTE!! It doesn't take long to do that. BTW....this is Week 2 of the contest....and you can still get the Week 1 kits FREE as well..

Wishing you all a GREAT Week to come!!

Until Next Time!!!

I Been Scrapping and YOU Get a FREEBIE!!

2010-09-20T01:51:00.003-05:00

Once again, Drea over a Scrapadilly is hosting her monthly crop and I've been happily scrapping. One of the challenges was to create a layout using colors from a pic Drea posted....well in order to do that, I just had to create a perfect mini-kit for me to use. If you LOVE crops and challenges....stop on by ....we have until the 26th to get the challenges completed.

Here is the layout I created using the kit.

Now since KJoi closed and I no longer have a store to put my kits into....you get the kit as a FREEBIE.

Here is the preview of the kit.

DOWNLOAD HERE

I hope you enjoy this little mini!!!

Until Next Time!!!

Today is my Birthday...and YOU Get a FREEBIE!!

2010-09-09T17:43:00.003-05:00

Well folks.....today is MY Birthday...and I am celebrating by giving away this FREEBIE that I made very recently for a color challenge on a scrapbook site that I visit. I hope you enjoy working with it!

Take a look at the preview....

You can DOWNLOAD HERE.

I know this was short and sweet....but I am about to go out to eat dinner with my sweet honey!!

Until Next Time!!!

DSS has a Designer Contest in Full Swing

2010-09-04T23:35:00.003-05:00

The Next Designer Contest has begun at Digital Scrapbooking Studio. The contestants first minis have been completed and are ready for your voting pleasure. Did I mention....there are 66 mini kits in the gallery that you can download for FREE?? Drop by.....register if you haven't.....check out all the entries and download any or all of the FREEBIES. Be sure to vote on your three (3) favorites.

Voting began today at approximately 2:15 pm CST and will end on Monday, September 6, at 8:00 am CST. Be sure to get by the gallery and get your vote in for your three (3) favorite minis.

The owner of DSS has given all of the contestants top secret identities for this contest.....so we won't know exactly who we are voting for....we just have to vote for the minis that are appealing to us.

Come on by the and see if you can pick out my entry....and if you like my mini....by all means....please vote for me!!

Until Next Time!!

News & a Freebie

2010-08-22T17:55:00.002-05:00

Well hello out there!! I have a bit of news.....very soon my youngest son, his wife and their 3 babies, Taylor 7, Caden 4, & Jessi 2...will be coming back to the states to live after living the past 3 years in Germany. I can't wait to have them back on this side of the pond......even if they won't be really close to where I live....at least I won't need a passport to visit them. Can you tell that I am excited about this????

OK...on to other things....I was surfing yesterday on a scrapbooking site that I visit, Scrapadilly and Drea was having her Friday Night Boredom Fighters scrapout...now I know yesterday was not Friday....but this time the challenge will go on for an entire week to allow all of us to maybe be able to do some of them. So today, I was checking out the challenges and saw the Color Challenge....I loved the choices of palettes so...I made a kit that I could use to do the challenge.

Now if you are interested in meeting some really great, friendly people...this would be the place to go!! There are many more challenges for this shindig and you have until August 29 to get them finished. Go check it out....you know you want to!!!

Here is the layout I did with the mini freebie.

Here is what the kit looks like and since I made it just for this challenge...you can have it for free! Now you can't beat that price anywhere!!

Now if you like....you can download the mini kit HERE...Please leave some love here on my blog via a comment if you take the kit. It only takes a moment and all the comments are truly appreciated!

Until Next Time!!!

Come on Over to the Farm

2010-08-15T17:07:00.002-05:00

I've been playing some over at the farm.....you know Moo Two Designs! Well, this month I am hosting the Barnyard Bingo and we are having so much fun.

I am also hosting another challenge called Fireside Tales. This one is all about that dreaded thing that most of us have problems with doing on our pages.....you know....the journaling!!!

Oh before I forget, beginning on September 13 at Moo Two, we will have a Designer Challenge will begin at the Moo Two Corral. If you are a budding designer, you might want to jump on over there and sign up before all the spots are taken. Ssshhh....don't tell anybody....but I actually joined this contest. I don't normally do contests because I am not a fan of the ones that go on popularity. I want to be judged based on the quality of my work. That is the beauty of this contest....we are all issued numbers...no one knows who we are. We will be judged on our ability, not our popularity. This is going to be so much fun! I can hardly wait until the fun begins.

I haven't gotten much done in the way of layouts. I have been really busy with the start of school back on August 3....hopefully things will slow down a bit and I will be able to get some pages done to post.

Hope everyone has a wonderful week!!

Until Next Time!

New Layouts

2010-07-30T09:35:00.003-05:00

OK...I'm feeling much better now and it is a good thing too....Because on Tuesday I go back to work....summer vacation will be over! It seems like it just began....but alas...We all must return to work.

BTW....I will also be updating my photography blog today as well. So be sure to go check out my photos!

OK...on with the promised layouts.

The first one is of my youngest granddaughter who was caught sleeping on a pallet outside their home in Germany....I believe her Mom took this on July 4, 2010 at a 4th of July party they were having.

This was done using freebie kits for the Garden Rainbow challenge at Digital Scrap Garden. I used freebies kits that were made for the challenge by His Kid Designs & Rumki Designs to make my layout.

This second layout was done for the Digging Up Letters challenge at DSG. I used the freebie kit that has been given away each day as the Petal of the Day. This months kit was provided by On My Own Designs. The photos in this layout were also taken by her Mom, Tanya.

As a kit designer, I haven't done much lately...but I do have a free paper pack that you can get, if you are interested. Just visit my Facebook page and "LIKE" it...leave me a comment and I will send you the link for the paper pack. Here is my Facebook link.

Don't forget to check out my photography blog to see my newest photos.

Until Next Time!!!

Feeling Icky

2010-07-20T13:53:00.002-05:00

Sorry. There are no new layouts for this week. I had a week long professional development workshop last week, which was fabulous. I really got a lot of new ideas to try in my classroom for Reading, Math, Science, & Writing.

However, I have been fighting a horrible sinus infection and finally decided I needed to actually do something about it before it was time to head back to the classroom. So, today I am feeling the effects of the drugs....you know how the antihistamines and decongestants make you feel.....YUKKY!! Well that is me today. But, Hopefully it will cure me of my ills and I will be back to right in no time.

Nothing much else going on in this neck of the woods....so.....

Until Next Time.....

New Layouts

2010-07-11T21:09:00.006-05:00

I have had quite a bit of fun playing with the challenges over at Digital Scrap Garden this week. I have gotten several layouts finished and a few more in the works.

This one was done for the Font Fun challenge

This one was done for the Scraplift Challenge.

This is for the Template Challenge.

This last one serves two purposes actually. One is for the Garden Salad Challenge and also to try and persuade my oldest son that he needs a new picture for his Facebook page.

OK...that is all I have for right now...so.....

Until Next Time!!!

Two New Layouts

2010-07-06T16:29:00.007-05:00

I have been really busy today. I finished two layouts, which are actually challenges at Digital Scrap Garden. I did the usual household engineering stuff....you know...laundry, dishes, floors, etc. Then I worked on my big unit (Japan) for my gifted students for the Fall session of our classes. Now its time to go and see if I can find some spectacular shots to catch with my camera. The light will be just about right.

But, before I go here are the two layouts I finished this morning.

If you have checked out my photography blog, then you will recognize this photo as one I shot on my little run-about yesterday.

This next one is of my beautiful baby granddaughter, Jessi...who currently lives in Germany where this photo was taken by her Mom (Tanya aka taun) using a Canon Rebel xSi.

OK...I have also finished a little paper pack that I have decided to give away to everyone that leaves a comment on this post.(I will need a way to get the link to you...so perhaps an email...could be given)...the two papers that make up my blog background are part of this paper pack...Here is what the pack looks like...

So, if you want the paper pack......please leave a comment....Even if you don't want the paper pack...PLZ leave a comment. I really love reading all the comments.:)

Until Next Time!

New Photography Blog

2010-07-05T21:52:00.002-05:00

I have given the issue of combining my scrapping/designing blog with my passion for photography and decided that my photography needs it own area for display.

So, all of my photography will be displayed on a new blog called Dee Bibb Photography. Go ahead....jump on over there an check out my first post.

I took a little drive this afternoon and got some pretty good shots from around my area.

I hope you enjoy them.

Maybe I will get some layouts done by the end of this week and get them posted.

Until Next Time!!

OK...My entry for I Heart Faces.....

2010-06-28T12:29:00.002-05:00

Furbs is part of our family....sometimes I think he believes he is human. He really likes to pose for the camera. So, I decided to use this photo of him to enter the "pets only" theme weekly challenge over at I Heart Faces.

More pics later!

Until Next Time!!

Photography

2010-06-28T09:03:00.002-05:00

For as long as I can remember, I have had a camera to point and shoot my family, friends, pets, you name it. I have always been the "one" behind the camera. I have some photos that no one wants seen because I seem to just click, click, click most of the time.

However, here recently, I have begun to look more into the "subjects" of my photography and have taken a REAL interest in the learning aspects of what is behind all of this 'point & shoot'.

Since I don't have any small children at home....most of my photos are likely to be my cat Furby or Furbs as he is called most of the time, or perhaps my dear sweet husband.....who tolerates my incessant clicking without too much complaint. Actually Furbs complains more than the husband.

I don't have an expensive camera. I just use a Kodak EasyShare C533....but for now..that is fine while I learn more about the finer aspects of photography.

I took these photos yesterday evening.

And of course.....one of my DH...Charles.

I would love to see your comments on my photos....I am an amateur and trying to learn about photography...It has always been a passion of mine...so any constructive comments are quite welcome.

Oh...BTW...my DIL put me on to this site....it has all sorts of great info....you might want to check it out. I Heart Faces.

Until Next Time!!

Oh My!! Has it been that long????

2010-06-10T11:16:00.004-05:00

I guess it has.. But in my defense...I have been really busy trying to get finished with that graduate degree that it seems like I've been working on forever!

You know what??? I did it!!!! I finally finished and have since graduated....Yeah me!! No!! I can not put a "Dr" in front of my name.....at least not yet....who knows...maybe someday!!

OK...enough of this dribble....I have a nice surprise for you....Because I have finally graduated....I decided to put my entire store at KJOI Studios on sale at 50% off from 6/10/2010 through 6/30/2010. It will even include anything NEW that I add to the store between this time....and hint...hint...there are some thing sin the works to be added...)

Enjoy shopping....and make sure you check back often during this period for any additions..

OK...gotta go run some errands for DH....so Until Next Time!!!!

Oh My!!!

2010-01-23T13:23:00.001-06:00

OK....first things first......

Is there anybody out there that would be willing to take on one of these graduate classes and finish all the assignments for me??? NO!! I didn't really think so....besides....how could I take the comps if I had someone else do the work for me right!!

Anyway...I do hope to get in at least one layout today before I jump away from the computer.

If I do, I will come back and post it.....you know it will most likely be of one or more of my wonderful grandchildren.

So until later.......

Just a Quick Note!!

2010-01-21T18:17:00.002-06:00

I know its been a little bit since I posted....but I really should not have put off taking these two classes that I now need to finish my graduate degree. Because now......they are "kicking my butt". There is just waaaayyyyy too much to do for someone that also works full-time at one job and part-time at another job.

I haven't even had time to finish the other layouts that I have started. But, hopefully, I will be able to get them finished within the next couple of weeks and get them posted for viewing.

I really can't wait to get this semester over and finally graduate! I am really tired of going to school!!

My LO for the Day

2010-01-03T20:14:00.002-06:00

This is a LO of my granddaughter that is 12 years old and I haven't seen her in a year...It is a really long story and I won't go into it here...but I think the LO says just how I feel.

I used the January 2010 collab kit from Digital Scrap Garden.

You will be seeing more LO done with this kit. It is huge and GORGEOUS!!!

Until Next Time!!

New Year and New Beginnings!

2010-01-02T19:57:00.002-06:00

I haven't scrapped anything in several months and today I got a burr under my saddle and decided I wanted to scrap. This is the only thing I have finished at the moment.

I used the January 2009 Collab kit made by some of the designers at Digital Scrap Garden.

I will be back with more....

Until Next Time!!

I'm All Better...New Kit....& a FREEBIE for you!!!

2009-10-04T15:43:00.002-05:00

Well, I have successfully beaten the flu bug and I'm back!

I whipped out a new kit this weekend and I'm calling it Nature's Masterpieces. Here is the preview:

As with all my digital scrapbooking kits, this one can be found exclusively at KJoi Studios Shoppe.

Here is the preview of a quick page that I am giving to you as a freebie. I hope you enjoy this little quick page.

DOWNLOAD HERE

Until Next Time!

Some Bad News!

2009-09-26T05:45:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to let everyone know why there isn't any new items added to my store this week or no freebie on this blog.

I promise I haven't run off and left. I attened the MAGC (gifted) conference this week and it seems that my body decided it needed to pick what seems to be the flu. I don't know any specifics....planning on heading out to the doctor this morning.

Everyone......just a word of caution.....stay away from this bug.....I feel absolutely lousy!!!

Until Next Time!