Another Fun Weekend Link Up Party! Come Join the fun and read my favorite from last weekend!

Welcome to another wonderful addition to SHOW OFF your blogger skills! Say hi to my wonderful hosts:

Stacey from This Momma's Ramblings

Natasha from Epic Mommy Adventures



Welcome back my beautiful October ladies: 



Cathy from A Peek Into My Paradise



Susan from Mom Loves 2 Read





Dani from Danielle Faith



Penny from The Real Housewife of Caroline County



Sara from Sweet Silly Sara

It's SHOW OFF time! Check out who our favorites were from last week's party:

Cathys' favorite from last week comes from This Silly Girl's Life: 

"I love the ease of this recipe! I love recipes with just a few ingredients I can pick up at the grocery store and have dinner on the table with minimum time in the kitchen!"

Susan loved what Simply Sarah wrote on her post: "as I also have lots of little stories started but not finished (and who has the time?) but eventually would love to publish them; I give a huge thumbs up and extra encouragement to this mommy blogger for posting this adorable short story she wrote for her kiddos." 

Natasha enjoyed Vashti's gift of writing: "I was completely drawn into Vashti's story; she is a brilliant and engaging writer.  I felt as though I was in the basement with my fellow namesake, Natasha.  I was completely locked into the story, wondering what would happen each moment.  I was sorry to see it end, so guess what? I bought the book! I couldn't resist!"

Penny gives a thumbs up to Mrs. Tee Love Life Laughter:  " This is actually a post I did with her called the Super Mom Tag!  It's 10 mom questions that we all answered via vlog style (video)...I applaud everyone being so brave to put their face out there!!" 

Stacey loved what Time with A & N wrote: "My folks didn't really take the time with me that I wished they had, missing choir concerts and band concerts, not coming to Pom Pom routines, even missing birthdays. I have always tried with all of my power to make my kids the center of my universe. Even to a point of going straight to a fall program that my oldest was in at school, the day I was released from the hospital after having my middle son. I never wanted my kids to feel the loneliness that I did as a kid. I even quit my job, to be able to spend time with my two youngest, though I still wish I had been able to while my oldest was still home. But he still makes it a point to come back home to visit as often as his work schedule will allow and we text almost daily, even if it is just to say I love you!"

My favorite comes from Forever Fitting In.  When I was reaading it, I thought she was writing about me! I am definitely both.  When I am into something, I will turn everything off and my entire goal i to focus on that obsession or determination! 

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Congratulations to all our featured bloggers! Take our beautful badge and SHOW OFF your blogger skills by displaying it on your side bar and encourage otthers to join in on the fun! 

It's my birthday next month and I'd love for you to join me in celebrating! Starting November 1st I will be giving away a grocery gift card.  It's your chance to grow your blog with me by joining me in the giveaway all month long! For more information, click here. I look forward to celebrating my 21st birthday again with you!

It's giveaway time!  My host, Natasha is celebratting her 1000th follower.  To celebrate, she's giving away an iPad! Enter below to have your chance in winning:

a Rafflecopter giveaway






Ready to party? We are! But first just a few guidelines for you:

• Link up your favorite posts. It doesn't matter which one, just make sure it's family friendly! 


• Follow all 3 of your hosts


• Follow all  co-hosts


• Leave a comment if you'd like them to follow you too


• Visit at least 5 other bloggers 


• Show them your blogger love by leaving a comment  if you'd like them to follow 

Remember, it's not a party unless you mix and mingle, so mingle around and make some friends! 

Take our beautiful badge and proudly display it on your side bar to encourage others to party with us!

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For Your Facebook Pages:

Choose to Be Nice T-shirts and Movement Review on Mom Loves 2 Read

The Story:

Choose To Be Nice is a long time coming! Dina Creiger, Founder,
kicked around the crazy idea of encouraging and inspiring kindness for a
couple of years. An unexpected tragedy, the Boston Marathon Bombings,
compelled her to finally move forward.



Since that awful day Dina hasn’t stopped thinking about how the world
truly is ready for Choose To Be Nice, a dedication to inspiring and
encouraging kindness. After all, even in today’s fast-paced, sometimes
impersonal world, you still catch more flies with honey than vinegar.

The Choose to Be Nice Mission

The mission of Choose To Be Nice is very simple.  We want to inspire,
promote and encourage kindness whenever and wherever possible.



My Review Story:

I've worn my "Choose to Be Nice" Tshirt several times now, even once to the Zoo on vacation with my family.  I really don't have a unique or interesting story of how someone was nicer just because of my shirt, but I do think it helped me think nicer thoughts - and sort of "curb my tongue" so to speak.



My kids were wearing me out by the end of our Zoo day and were being even more annoyingly annoying to

each other (and me of course) and I kept reminding myself that "this is their day" ~ "this is their vacation, not mine" ~ and I think I was more tolerant of their antics than I might have been otherwise.  Now I can't say it was due to the shirt, but I did try to be nicer each time I wore it.



And, I love the shirt - I love the message and my children notice what it says.  My youngest asked if she can have one like mine too - so I'll have to get her one!  After all, even children should "choose to be nice"



I have thought it would make a wonderful statement if all three of my kids wore one each week to school - we have had a few instances of bullying in my son's classes (5th and 6th grades) and now my 3rd grader as well.  I love that "Choose to be nice" can be read as a positive message for anyone in almost any situation!

Check out the "Choose to Be Nice" movement here ~ http://choosetobenice.com/

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Don't forget to DROP your kids ~ for a fun night of adventure while Mom and Dad go kidfree.

 

Friday, October 11
- "DROP" at Inspired Arts Academy

DROP
is a “drop off” program offered every Friday Night for parents to "drop
off" their kids in a safe and fun environment – for up to 3 hours. Kids
will enjoy the company of other kids and activities including: art
projects, dance lessons and games, theatrical performances, movies,
video games, tech opportunities, gymnastics, musical activities and
more. There will also be a pre-packaged snack and drink for every child.

 

My girls have been to DROP nights a couple times now and they absolutely love it.  There are usually quite a few of their friends from school, church and neighborhood friends, but they always come home talking about someone new they played with.  They love attending all the fun DROP night activities . . . check it out!

Where:  Inspired Arts Academy, located at 2137 South Main Street (the Field Shopping Center) in Morton.

When: 
6:00 PM
-
9:00 PM

Who:  Ages 3 and up. All kids attending DROP MUST be potty-trained.

How:  Just show up! For more information or to purchase sessions in advance, visit the Inspired Arts Academy website or call  (309) 340-4520.

  Cost:  1 session: $15; 5 sessions: $70 (save $5); 10 sessions: $130 (save $20); 20 sessions: $250 (save $50)

And don't forget they have classes for kids and adults too!

Disclosure: I receive free class credit in exchange for posting updates on IAA events.  Regardless, I only post about businesses and sponsors that I personally support. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Accupress - topical pain relief for everyday aches and pains ~ Review on Mom Loves 2 Read

Acupress provides fast, effective pain relief. It comes in a 4
oz easy to use, mess free topical applicator bottle, which instantly
soothes any areas of discomfort. 



Perfect and convenient to use whether
you have headaches, migraines, joint or body pains, arthritis, or any
sports and activity related injuries or strains . 



Acupress is all
natural and made in the USA, made from herbs, and comes with a 48 page
guidebook to teach you how to properly source and treat your pain.







My Review:

As a busy mom of three, I can't afford to give in to pain.  Yet, I suffer nearly daily from pain related to previous joint injuries that causes debilitating pain located at the base of my skull in the back of my head.  It usually presents itself with Migraine type symptoms with throbbing pain and pressure added in.  Add to that a previous back injury and I have the makings of a very difficult day.  I have tried many over-the-counter and prescription pain remedies with few helping to even "take the edge off."  One topically applied cream does seem to help my back and occasionally helps my neck/head pain as well - but even that just eases but does not completely remove the pain.

I was thrilled with the chance to try Accupress.  But found that although it does soothe my pain, it has a menthol-type feeling when applied to my skin - and heats up like many sports rubs.  I can not personally tolerate that type of pain relief medication, so for me the Accupress was a like/dislike.  I liked that the pain did lessen, but did not like the heated after effects and menthol type warmth/smell that continued for hours after applying.

If you can tolerate or like those menthol/heat type products then Accupress might be perfect for you as I personally think it is much stronger and works much better than the other similar products I have tried.  Unfortunately it just isn't meant to work for me.  Don't take my personal experience to heart - feel free to give it a try yourself as each person should judge for him/herself.



Acupress will be launching a national television campaign in 2014 that will tell much more about this product.  Each 4oz bottle lasts a long time.  You can find out more
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Acupress/158412647688080

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

If Chocolate Were Purple, what would you do? A funtastic book review on Mom Loves 2 Read

In a world where chocolate is purple, where roller skates grow on trees and all kinds of things turn topsy turvy, one thing your little one can count on is your love. 



Full of delightful rhymes and whimsical imagery this fun bedtime story will warm hearts and ignite imaginations.



My Review:

If Chocolate Were Purple is a fanciful and imaginative story for children that stretches each child's imagination in a delightfully silly way. With amazing illustrations that bring each page to life, this story is one that will be read over and over and over by more than just the little ones.





I personally think this is an adorable book.  My kids and I love If Chocolate Were Purple.  Such and wonderfully fun story that adds that extra sparkle to my little one's eyes every time we read it together.  My youngest is 5 and she nearly has the whole fun story memorized already.  This is one of her new favorites and I keep finding it in my car, the living room, under her covers when she is supposed to be sleeping and all over where she had last been "reading" it.



I have read and reviewed for author Jen Barton before, and she once again has found a book that has found a permanent place in my home.  This is an adorably silly and fun book that children of all ages will enjoy, it not only encourages children to use their imaginations but does it in a unique and fun way - another highly recommended read!



You can read my review of another of Jen Barton's books here.



About the author:

Jen Barton was born in Williamsport, Pennsylvania in 1971 and spent much of her life on the East Coast. In 2008, at age 36, she and her family moved to California. With two cars, she and her husband moved two dogs, two guinea pigs, a cornsnake and their 10-year old daughter across the country. She counts the five day road trip, including a near escape by both dogs on Day 3, as one of her best experiences to date. In 2009, with a Bachelor of Arts in English and Philosophy from Millersville University, Barton realized her childhood dream to become a writer. One van full of bored kids, one long day of travel, and Fiona Thorn was born. She’s been writing ever since. When not taxiing her teenage daughter hither and yon, Barton loves reading (especially fantasy by George R. R. Martin), cooking (anything with pasta is a hit), and writing (magical worlds with obstinate teen girls is always a favorite).

Socialize with Jen:
Goodreads ~ http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6543278.Jen_Barton
Facebook ~ https://www.facebook.com/JenBartonWrites
Website ~ http://www.jbartonbooks.com/
Click here to purchase a copy of this book on Amazon.com

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review from the author. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Artisan Handcrafted gifts from Novica ~ Enter the Giveaway and visit another world! #novica #sponsor

 

What kinds of gifts do you buy for yourself or friends? Family?  Do you like handcrafted items?  Do you and your female friends like unique and fun jewelry?  What about if you could get some amazing handcrafted items for your home from across the world, delivered right to your door?



If this sounds like something you would do, then you will love Novica
– an online marketplace that connects you with artisans and craftsman
around the world and enables you to purchase dream items at incredible
values!

 

I was offered a chance to review an item from Novica, and I am so excited.  I can't wait for it to arrive!  I looked and looked all over the site . . . I found beatiful shawls, purses, clothing, home decor and jewelry.  I finally ended up with three different rings that I was having a hard time choosing between, but I think I'll be more than happy with my final decision . . . this gorgeous sterling silver floral ring.

Blushing daisies crown the feminine design of this ring from Wadarat
Supasirisuk. Featuring a leafy vine, the ring is crafted with sterling
silver featuring oxidized contrasts.  This ring is .925 Sterling silver

Now, I am not usually a fan of silver jewelery as I don't think it goes well with my skin tone (my freckles look funny with silver - lol) but I couldn't resist this ring!  It has a similar style to my "Mother's Ring" that I wear - which is an heirloom that was my grandmother's "mother's ring" and is now redone with my children's birthstones inset.  This ring will look amazing next to it.  I'll let you know when it arrives!



I found this reing through the Gifts for Mom section of Novica - there are over 30,000 items on the website so finding only one was quite difficult! 

Now, let me know how much time it takes for YOU to find something perfect just for you!  I have a wonderful prize for one of Mom Loves 2 Read's faithful followers . . . a $25 code to shop on Novica!

enter below for a chance to WIN - must be 18 or older

Entry-Form

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

The Pasta Shoppe Review ~ Pasta with personality

I love good food - then again, most people I know enjoy eating as much as I do.  But as most people like myself, there are certain foods that I love to eat more than others. . . and those that are fun and fanciful as well as yummy and filling top the list of foods I love.



When I found The Pasta Shoppe website and started browsing the fun and fanciful pastas, I was hooked.  But, how do they taste?  Will they hold up to my family's high standards of taste and enjoyment?



Hmm, well, the best way to find out is a real, live taste test. So, of course I contacted them to find out if I could get a few products for review.  They were nice enough to send me a selection that catered to my family . .

. something for each one of us (except Daisy . . . she's not allowed to eat people food, poor doggie).

 

We have the Spinach Basil Garlic Angel hair pasta nests for sophisticated adult tastes, then the fun and fantastic Cheesy Farm Pasta mix, Holiday specials: Snowman Pasta, Reindeer Noodle Soup mix and Wintertime Chilli mix.  For the Illinois Fans, some Illinois fan pasta mix, and some kid friendly favorites: Zoo Animals and Peace, Love & Happiness shaped pasta.

So, what to make first?  Something for the kiddos of course - a favorite, Cheesy Peace Sign pasta!

 Yep, those are Peace Signs, Hearts and Doves in pasta form!  My girls both Love this one!

 Even my 12 year old said it was yummy, though he would prefer baseball shapes to Peace signs!

Then, something fun for Mom to eat for lunch while the kiddos are at school . . .

my favorite Italian Ranch Cold Pasta Salad using the Illinois Fan Pasta . . . personal recipe:

A dash or three of italian salad dressing, way more dashes of my favorite Ranch dressing

Black olives, Fresh Garden grown grape tomatoes, some green olives thrown in for color and contrast

and flavor goodness . . . refrigerate for a couple hours to cool.

then eat and enjoy! 

(for those who like onions and peppers - those make great adds too)

And finally, since this post is already long - one last yummy review . . . 

for the adults - some delicious Spinach Basil Garlic Angel hair pasta nests

Served with Alfredo sauce with spices on top to add some color and flavor . . . my husband's favorite of all the pastas.  He travels quite a bit for work and has eaten at some amazing restaurants.  He said this was as good as some of those restaraunt pastas and he'd love to have this again and again!

I have to agree.  I enjoyed every pasta we tried, and we've eaten nearly all of them already, but this one is my personal favorite as well.

 Now, as if that isn't enough of a reason to go buy some fun pasta, how about the fundraising opportunities offered as well?  Oh, yes!  You or your group can raise money for your troop, group or event through The Pasta Shoppe's fundraising program . . . www.funpastafundraising.com  A great way to share your love of pasta with friends, neighbors and family and raise money for your organization too!



 With a variety of options, there is something for nearly anyone at The Pasta Shoppe ~ Seasonal Pastas, Gluten-free, college teams, pasta nests, meringues, gift sets and more . . .

Disclosure: I received free the item(s) mentioned in this post in exchange for my honest review through the sponsor mentioned in the post. Regardless ~ All my reviews are my honest and personal opinion. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.

Marcia Lynn McClure strikes again ~ A Bargained-For Bride book tour & giveaway

A Bargained-For Bride by Marcia Lynn McClure (Novella)

Excerpt

“You’re the sweetest girl in Mourning Dove Creek, you know?” Jack mumbled as he paused in kissing Jilly a moment.

Jilly smiled. “And you’re the handsomest man in Mourning Dove Creek, you know,” she flirted in return.

Jack smiled. “I do know,” he said.

Jilly giggled. Jack Taylor was so predictable—and a little conceited.
He really did think he was the handsomest man in Mourning Dove—and he
was, for the most part.

Secretly, however, if Jilly ever allowed herself to be completely
honest about it (which she tried to avoid), there was one other man in
Mourning Dove who always crossed her mind when the subject of the
handsomest man in town arose. Yet there was no lingering on thinking of
that man—no sirree! Not for a moment! Not for any reason—ever. And so
Jilly just kept telling Jack that he was the handsomest man in Mourning
Dove Creek. Besides, it was almost true—being that the other man lived
outside of town and not right in town the way Jack did.

 Amazon * Distractions Ink

Author Marcia Lynn McClure

Marcia Lynn McClure’s intoxicating succession of novels, novellas,
and e-books, has established her as one of the most favored and engaging
authors of true romance. Her unprecedented forte in weaving captivating
stories of western, medieval, regency, and contemporary amour void of
brusque intimacy has earned her the title “The Queen of Kissing.”

Marcia, who was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has spent her life
intrigued with people, history, love, and romance. A wife, mother,
grandmother, family historian, poet, and author, Marcia Lynn McClure
spins her tales of splendor for the sake of offering respite through the
beauty, mirth, and delight of a worthwhile and wonderful story.

Blog Tour Giveaway

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 11/12/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an
Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified
prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or
older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be
chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will
have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway
is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any
other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries
received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy
from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I am a blogger for I am a Reader blog tours. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”.