Try a New Recipe Tuesday~Mahogany Pork Roast

So, this isn't the best picture, but it is a super good recipe!  A week or so ago, I posted here about my Kroger Spring Dinner review.  Part of the review was a free pork tenderloin (I had never made a tenderloin), and Kroger included some recipes.  This is one of the recipes-very easy, and my family loved it.  Here you go-

Mahogany Pork Roast

2 lbs. of pork tenderloin
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 large clove garlic, minced

1. Combine honey, soy sauce, and garlic in large resealable plastic food storage bag.  Reserve 1/4 cup marinade and store in refrigerator for later.
2.  Place pork tenderloins in bad with marinade.  Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400.  Lightly spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray.
4. Place the tenderloin in the prepared pan and discard the used marinade.  Roast 30 minutes.
5. Brush reserved marinade over the pork.  Continue to roast the pork until thermometer reads 155 degrees.  Transfer to a cutting board and let stand 10 minutes with a foil tent.
Enjoy!

Now go check out this weeks new recipes:

Giveaway Winners!!

The winners of the coupon for a free bottle of Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash are....

#157 Mya M
#67 Madeline B

Congratulations!  I have sent you an email with instructions on how to get your coupon.  Thanks everyone who entered!

Product Review and FLASH Giveaway-Combat Ant & Roach Killing Bait Strips

Last year, I reviewed Combat Ant Gel, which worked great at controlling our ant problem.  Now, the same killing power found in Combat Gels is available in a discreet design-it's a thin bait strip.  The new Combat Ant and Roach Killing Bait Strips have an adhesive backing that makes it easy to hide them out of sight and reach of children and pets.                                  

Unlike spray ant killers, Combat Ant Killing Bait Strips are designed to kill the nest and colony.  They are easy to apply and leave no mess.

We don't have a big ant problem, but every summer when it gets really hot, we have ants in our laundry room and garage.  We think they are looking for water.  So, unfortunately, we have not been able to truly test these strips out.  The weather is warming up, so I'm sure in the next month or two we will have ants to use them on!  I can tell you, though, that they are super easy to apply and I love that they are so discreet.

SWEEPSTAKES

Combat® is proud to introduce the $1,000 Giveaway featuring NEW Combat® Ant & Roach Killing Bait Strips! You can enter to win one of three $250 Visa gift cards, or one winner will win $1,000! 

Click here to enter! 

GIVEAWAY!!  Enter immediately-ends 5/1 at 10pm (MST)!!

Combat is giving one of my readers their choice of either Combat Ant Killing Bait Strips or Roach Killing Bait Strips.  Since I have to turn in the winner's info by May 3rd, this will be a fast and easy giveaway!!  Just leave a comment below letting me know which product you'd like to try.  Be sure to leave me your email address.  If you are the winner, I will contact you immediately after the giveaway ends to get your mailing address.  Please respond to me ASAP if you win!  Thanks!

Disclosure: Combat brand provided me with a sample of Combat Killing Bait Strips in exchange for a product review.  However, all the opinions expressed here are my own. 

Whit's End Mealtime Devotions Facebook Party and Author Giveaway!

Do your kids clam up at dinner time? Are you tired of asking them how their school day went that being the extent of the conversation? John Avery Whitaker of Adventures in Odyssey's Whit's End has just the solution for you: Whit's End Mealtime Devotions. Tricia Goyer and Crystal Bowman helped him come up with 90 ideas to help build your kids' faith and your relationships.

To celebrate, Tricia is hosting a 12-day Diverting Dinnertime Giveaway! From April 20 to May 1, visit this page for a new giveaway each day. Only those in the U.S. are eligible to win. Oh, and don't forget to come to her Facebook party on May 1 (RSVP here: https://www.facebook.com/events/350106761758181); you might see a few familiar Adventures in Odyssey characters.

Great Deal on Lead Your Family Like Jesus!!

Just a $1.99!
A few weeks back I posted a review about a great book I had read, Lead Your Family Like Jesus by Ken Blanchard, Phil Hodges, and Tricia Goyer.  You can read my review here.  Well, right now Amazon has an amazing deal on the Kindle version of this book, it's only $1.99 through May 5th!  Click on the graphic above to be taken to Amazon so you can get a copy!  I'd love to hear your thoughts on the book after you read it!

Book Review~Darkness Before Dawn

Twenty-eight year old Meg, a nurse who is a devout Christian and married to the love of her life, is thrilled to learn she is pregnant.  She is waiting for her husband to get home so she can tell him the wonderful news, when she gets the worst news of her life.  Her husband has been killed by a drunk driver.  In the days and weeks following the accident, Meg cannot forgive and is out for revenge, whatever it takes.  She becomes a different, hard, uncaring person who doesn't turn to God anymore.

Darkness Before Dawn, by Ace Collins, was a great book-it was one of those that is hard to put down because you just have to know what happens!  The author does a wonderful job of portraying Meg's raw emotions so that you almost understand why she is doing what she is, and my heart just broke for her.  I definitely recommend Darkness Before Dawn!

Purchase Darkness Before Dawn here.

Read more reviews at Litfuse.

Author Giveaway

In his latest novel, Darkness Before Dawn (Abingdon Press), Ace Collins leads readers on an emotionally charged ride from revenge to forgiveness.

Ace is celebrating the release of Darkness Before Dawn with a Retribution v. Redemption 12-Day Giveaway!

Go {HERE} or click the button for all the details. Follow along for a new giveaway each day. (Moleskin journal, books, Starbucks gift cards and so much more!)

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Litfuse Publicity. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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." 

Book Review~When the Morning Glory Blooms

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing When The Morning Glory Blooms Abingdon Press (April 1, 2013) by Cynthia Ruchti

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Cynthia writes stories of hope that glows in the dark, merging her love for storytelling with inextinguishable hope for inexpressible hurts.

Cynthia spends her days diving into words, worship, and wonder and celebrating 40 years of marriage, three grown children, and five outrageously adorable grandchildren. One of her greatest joys is helping other writers grow in their craft. To that end, she served as the assistant director and a faculty member of the Quad Cities Christian Writers Conference, has served as worship and devotions staff for the Write-to-Publish conference, and teaches at other conferences as opportunities arise. She speaks to women’s groups, at mother-daughter banquets, and for women’s refresher days and retreats. It is her delight to serve on her church’s worship team. Rather than “busy,” she likes the term “active.”

For 33 years, Cynthia wrote and produced the radio broadcast The Heartbeat of the Home. The scripted radio drama/devotional broadcast aired on as many as 50 radio stations and two cable/digital television stations over the years. Cynthia was the editor of the ministry’s Backyard Friends magazine, a twenty-page, twice annual publication that reached 5,000 homes, churches, and parachurch outreaches.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Becky rocks a baby that rocked her world. Sixty years earlier, with her fiancé Drew in the middle of the Korean Conflict, Ivy throws herself into her work at a nursing home to keep her sanity and provide for the child Drew doesn't know is coming. Ivy cares for Anna, an elderly patient who taxes Ivy's listening ear until the day she suspects Anna's tall tales are not the ramblings of dementia. They're fragments of Anna's disjointed memories of a remarkable life. Finding a faint thread of hope she can't resist tugging, Ivy records Anna's memoir, scribbling furiously after hours to keep up with the woman's emotion-packed, grace-hemmed stories. Is Ivy's answer buried in Anna's past? Becky, Ivy, Anna--three women fight a tangled vine of deception in search of the blossoming simplicity of truth.

If you would like to read the first chapter of When The Morning Glory Blooms, go HERE.

What I Thought: When The Morning Glory Blooms was a wonderful story of God's Grace in our lives.  The three main characters, women from different generations, have their stories woven together by the author in a beautiful way. I loved the way the book was written, with a story within a story.  I definitely recommend this book-but get your tissues ready first!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from CFBA . I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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." 

Book Review and Giveaway~Whit's End Mealtime Devotions

Focus on the Family has a new family devotional out-Whit's End Mealtime Devotions from Adventures in Odyssey.  It was written by John Avery Whittaker, with help from Crystal Bowman and Tricia Goyer.  This devotional contains " 90 faith-building ideas your kids will eat up!"

Included in the book are 64 Any Day Mealtime Devotions, 15 Holiday Devotions, and 11 Theme Devotions.  The devotions are catchy, fun topics, like I Spy and King on the Mountain in the Any Day Devotions, April Fools Day: Who's a Fool in the Holiday Devotions, and Search for Treasure in the Theme Devotions.

Each devotion is just one page, and is broken down into five courses:
*Mealtime Prayer-a fresh way to bless your food
*Appetizer-a fun question or activity to 'whet' your appetite
*Main Course-an object lesson; the 'meat' of the lesson
*Table Talk-questions to spark interesting discussions
*Vitamins and Minerals-a Bible verse that relates to the day's reading and discussion

My family has really enjoyed Whit's End Mealtime Devotions. At first I was concerned it might be balked at by the young adult children we have, as it certainly looks geared for younger kids.  But, it was the perfect fit for our family. We have a big age range (from 10-21) in our kids, and these were topics everyone (Mom and Dad included) could relate to and discuss.

 I really like that these devotions are not too long-we've tried some family devotions that just get too long, and we end up losing the attention of the youngest.  Also it's not just Dad reading a long section of the Bible and teaching about it. These devotions are lively questions and topics that everyone can chime in on!

I think mealtimes as a family are so important. If you are looking for a fun devotional for your family to do at mealtimes(or anytime, really), check out Whit's End Mealtime Devotions.



GIVEAWAY!!!

Tyndale House Publishers is offering one of my readers their own copy of Whit's End Mealtime Devotions!!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with theFederal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Book Review~Life's a Pain

I have chronic pain due to spine problems and arthritis.  Over the years, I have struggled with accepting this and have wondered why God didn't take the pain away.  Life's A Pain: Journeying By Faith When Every Step Hurts immediately appealed to me.  What's really fascinating is that it is written by a pastor, Todd Rettberg, who has dealt with chronic pain himself for most of his life.  He knows what it is like to deal with daily pain while being a husband, father, and pastor.

The author uses stories from his own life and others, as well as Scripture, to help us understand that God is there for us every step of the way.  Also, that God made it clear in the Scriptures that we will have pain. Instead of thinking of it as a punishment from God, think about it this way: "He thought so much of me that He believed my pain could be used for His glory."

I think people who don't understand chronic pain think it doesn't affect the rest of your life, but oh it does.  The pain in my spine effects the rest of my body, my energy level, my mood, and my attitude.  It effects how I interact with my family and friends.

When you faithfully call out to God for help in the midst of your suffering, and nothing changes (or it gets worse), you may wonder why this Heavenly Father who loves you so much is letting you suffer.  That's hard to wrap your mind around, and is probably the cause of many people losing faith in God.

I really liked this quote from the book, "In our culture people are surprised when suffering appears.  But are we surprised when God blesses us?  If not, why are we surprised when the opposite occurs?  As Job put it, 'Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?' Job 2:10"

It is up to the individual what they will do with their pain-I choose to use it for God's glory.  I've done the pity party thing and it is no fun for me or those around me. Life's a Pain: Journeying By Faith When Every Step Hurts has been a blessing and help to me, and I highly suggest it to those with chronic pain and those who are close to someone with chronic pain.  This is a book I have underlined and highlighted, and plan to keep out for future reference and encouragement.

Life's a Pain (ISBN 9781936746248) is available for purchase here.

Disclosure of Material: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookCrash.com book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Product Review-Kroger Spring Dinners

As a member of BzzAgent I recently received coupons to redeem for a complete, free dinner from Kroger.  The Kroger store in my area is called Smiths, and it was great to go shopping and get an entire meal for free!

Kroger has simple-to-prepare  entrees and side dishes, so you can spend more time enjoying your family!  I got a pork tenderloin, mashed potatoes, crescent rolls, and cake mix with frosting.  My family prepared it for a Sunday dinner.  I've never made a pork tenderloin before, and it was a treat!  We used a recipe recommended by Kroger called Mahogany Pork Roast.  Super quick and easy, marinated overnight and delicious!  I'll share the recipe on Try a New Recipe Tuesday next week, so check back then!

Here's a picture of our tenderloin.  Everyone agreed, it was the favorite part of the meal, and it made so much that we had leftovers the next night with plenty for all four of us!

Family dinners are so important, spending time catching up with one another after a busy day.  Personally, although I enjoy cooking for my family, I don't want to be exhausted from hours of cooking and then dreading tons of dishes afterward.  Kroger helps make dinner easy so I can spend more time with my loved ones.  Thanks for the meal Kroger and BzzAgent!  

Children's Book Review~Stuck in the Doldrums

Stuck in the Doldrums (ISBN: 978-1479182701) by Carole P. Roman is a delightful children's book featuring Captain No Beard and his crew.  This is a cute 36 page book with bright, colorful illustrations throughout.  Animal loving kids will enjoy the lion, monkey, parrot, and frog that are part of the crew.  The story focuses on teamwork and compromise, important values for children to learn.  Chad (10) and I enjoyed reading Stuck in the Doldrums, and I plan to read it to Grandson Daniel as well!  When I received the book, two cute little pirate ducks were included (see below)!  Daniel loves them, and they are special just for bath at my house. 

About the Author: Award-winning author Carole P. Roman is a former teacher turned businesswoman who has successfully run a family business with her husband for more than 40 years. Her first book,

Captain No Beard: An imaginary Tale of a Pirate’s Life, has been named to the Kirkus Reviews’ Best of 2012 as well as garnered the star of remarkable merit. She currently lives on Long Island near all her children and grandchildren and strives to sees them as much as she can.

*Disclosure: I received a copy of this book free in exchange for this review. 

~Wordless Wednesday~

Book Review and Giveaway~A Healing Heart

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Healing Heart Abingdon Press (April 1, 2013) by Angela Breidenbach

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Angela Breidenbach is a speaker/coach in mental and physical health, author of A Healing Heart April 2013 from Abingdon Press in the Quilts of Love series, Gems of Wisdom: For a Treasure-filled Life, Creative Cooking for Simple Elegance, and Creative Cooking for Colitis. Other works by Angela include compilation books and devotionals from Guidepost, Group, and articles in magazines, ezines, and newspapers. She is certified in mentor/peer counseling as a CTA life coach, as a Stephen Minister, and a weight loss/nutrition coach. Angela serves as an assisting minister (worship/prayer leader) for her congregation in Missoula, MT. Not only did she walk the hard line of deciding to donate her mom’s brain for the study of schizophrenia, but she’s also on the brain donation list at the Brain Bank-Harvard McLean Hospital.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Mara Keegan is an uber-successful mother and a widow of three years. She's been chasing success and all the "good things in life" for her family to make up for the cruel whim God played on them by taking her husband. In an effort to be the perfect mom, she decides to make a photo memory quilt, a graduation present for her daughter, Cadence.

She’s not yet finished when she experiences a heart attack. While Mara recuperates, she revisits the choices she's made that led to this physically and spiritually broken heart. The memory quilt must be finished in time for Cadence's big day, but Mara struggles with her burgeoning feelings for the man who must keep Mara's business going during her recovery, Joel Ryan. Can Joel find his way into Mara's heart and onto Cadence's quilt?

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Healing Heart, go HERE

What I Thought: A Healing Heart is another great book in the Quilts of Love Series.  I really enjoyed this story.  The main character Mara has turned away from God after becoming a widow, and has to find her way back to Him.  She also has to learn to forgive Joel, who hurt her in the past but has now come to her rescue.  Mara is dealing with so much, and on top of everything has had a heart attack. She wants to finish her daughter's quilt in time for graduation.  A Healing Heart follows Mara and her family as they struggle through adversity and try to come back together stronger.

GIVEAWAY!!!
I have one extra copy of A Healing Heart to give away.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Review and Giveaway~Dial Kids Body & Hair Wash

I love getting new products to try out!  This time both Chad (10) and I were excited to try new Dial for Kids Body & Hair Wash.  Chad is at the stage where he doesn't like adult body washes and shampoos yet, but doesn't want to use 'babyish' products either.  We received the Watery Melon scent, with a cool picture of kids surfing on the bottle!  We both liked that one product does everything he needs to get clean, and he loved the scent.  He smelled yummy when he came out of the shower!

Dial for Kids was developed with pediatric dermatologists, with specialized 2-in-1 formulas for ages 2 and up and ages 6 and up.  These formulas are mild and non-drying, tear free, hypoallergenic, Ph balanced, and with no artificial dyes or added parabens.  Products like this make me as a Mom feel like I am doing the best I can to keep my child safe, while still letting him have a fun time.

For more information  check out Dial at:
*website
*Facebook

SWEEPSTAKES

Enter the Dial Kids Sweepstakes featuring NEW Dial® Kids Peachy Clean for ages 2+, and Dial® Kids Watery Melon for ages 6+. One lucky winner will receive $1,000, while 250 second place winners get to try NEW  Dial® Kids Body & Hair Wash for FREE!  Click here to enter!

GIVEAWAY!!

I have two coupons to give away for a free bottle of new Dial Kids Body & Hair Wash!!  Enter below: 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*Disclosure: The Dial brand provided me with a sample of Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash in exchange for a product review.  However, all the opinions expressed here are my own.

Review and Giveaway~Soft Scrub Advanced Surface!

Soft Scrub has a new formula out-Soft Scrub Advanced Surface.  This is a rinse-free gel that cleans and polishes granite and marble countertops, glass cooktops, and stainless steel.  Soft Scrub Advanced Surface is tough on grease and grime, but gentle on delicate surfaces.

I used new Soft Scrub Advanced Surface on my stainless steel double sink and my glass cooktop.  They were both so shiny, and the burnt spots on my stove tops cleaned off well.  The best part was there was no rinsing required-just wipe with a paper towel or cloth and you're done.

SWEEPSTAKES
Soft Scrub announces the Don't Worry, Be Happy Sweepstakes. One lucky winner will receive $1,000, while 250 second place winners get to try NEW Soft Scrub® Advanced Surface for FREE!  Click here to enter!

GIVEAWAY
TWO The Loose Screw readers will each win a coupon for a free Soft Scrub product.  



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a sample of this product free in exchange for my honest review.

Product Review~Colgate Optic White

As a member of Influenster, last month I received a VoxBox full of various samples to try out.  Among other samples, I received Colgate Optic White products-360 toothbrush, mouthwash, and toothpaste.  I was already a fan of these products-the 360 toothbrushes are the best!  Its actually the only toothbrush I will buy now!  The toothpaste and mouthwash are awesome too-your teeth can look whiter within one week and prevent future stains!

Check out the Colgate Optic White webpage here, and read more information and reviews at Influenster. 

* I received these samples from Influenster for review purposes.  All opinions are my own.

Book Review~Josiah's Treasure

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Josiah's Treasure Worthy Publishing (April 16, 2013) by Nancy Herriman

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Herriman abandoned a career in Engineering to chase around two small children and take up the pen. She has been writing for longer than she would like to admit. Her work has been a finalist in several Romance Writers of America contests and she won the 2006 RWA Daphne du Maurier award for Best Unpublished Mystery/Romantic Suspense. In 2009, she was an ACFW Genesis finalist. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.

When she is not writing, or gabbing over lattes about writing, she is either watching history shows on cable TV or singing. She lives in the Midwest with her husband and sons, and wishes there were more hours in the day.



ABOUT THE BOOK

In 1882, Sarah Whittier dreams of opening an art studio run by immigrant women. She plans to use the house left to her by family friend Josiah Cady as collateral for her studio. But will all be lost when the inheritance is challenged by an angry man claiming to be Josiah's son and legal heir? Rumor of gold nuggets hidden in the house, place Sarah's life in danger. Her future uncertain and her safety threatened, Sarah has nowhere to turn. That is, unless she can soften a vengeful man's heart-and they both learn that love is finer than any gold.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Josiah's Treasure, go HERE.

What I Thought: This is the first book I've read by Nancy Herriman, and I enjoyed it.  It was a sweet story with enjoyable characters.  I liked reading the descriptions of San Francisco in the 1800s-I don't believe I've ever read a historical fiction book with the same setting.  My favorite character was Sarah-I love reading about strong women from this era who persevered and made a difference.  Josiah's Treasure was a nice mix of mystery and romance!

*Disclosure: I received this book from CFBA in exchange for my honest review.  All opinions are my own.

~Wordless Wednesday~

Movie Review and Giveaway~This Is Our Time DVD

This Is Our Time is a new DVD by Pure Flix that releases tomorrow, April 16.  I had the opportunity to watch this movie with my husband and 18-year-old daughter last Saturday.  

About the Movie: This is our Time begins with the college graduation of five close Christian friends, who all want to make a difference in the world. They are all seeking out their purposes in life, and some of the friends have clearer ideas of their paths.  Unfortunately, tragedy strikes the close-knit group,  and their friendship and their faith are tested in ways they never imagined.  “The experiences the characters in THIS IS OUR TIME face are the kinds of real-life ups and downs, successes and devastation, all of us encounter in living life,” said Lisa Arnold, the film’s writer, director and co-producer. “I wanted to tell a story that would resonate with young people just stepping out into the world to make their mark that would help them see that no matter the circumstances they face, God is always with them, loving them, guiding them.”

"What they all come to learn is that it never really was their time,” Arnold said. “It always was, always is, God’s time.”

THIS IS OUR TIME has received The Dove Foundation’s Family Seal of Approval (earning the highest rating of five Doves) and is recommended for all ages. It also features appearances by Hollywood veterans Eric Roberts, Erik Estrada and Dawn Wells.

It will be available nationwide at Family Christian Stores and most Christian online and brick-and-mortar retail stores nationwide.

Website: http://www.christiancinema.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=4565

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsOurTimeMovie

Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmjQe2onm6s

Coinciding with the movie’s DVD release, Pure Flix is teaming with Family Christian Stores and other Christian retailers to award eight $2,500 college scholarships through registrations submitted through FamilyChristian.com and other websites representing more than 2,000 retail outlets nationwide. Participation eligibility and rules can be found at www.thisisourtimemovie.com.

What I (We) Thought: 
Great movie! The characters were all easy to quickly connect with, and the storyline kept our attention the entire time.  We all enjoyed the movie, and will probably watch it again.  I am glad I didn't have my ten-year-old watch it with us, because it would have been too over his head and not relevant to his time in life. I will have him watch it in several years, though!   This was a great movie to watch with our daughter who is just about to graduate High School.  Right now, she is getting so much information from many sources and feels pressure to choose a major, to choose her future path now.  The movie stresses God's time, not our time, and that is a lesson I feel we all need to be reminded of continually throughout our lives.  It can be so easy to get caught up in our plans, our desires, our problems-but only God's plan matters.

GIVEAWAY!!
I have one copy of This is Our Time DVD to give away:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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."

Review and Giveaway~Purex Natural Elements Tropical Splash detergent

The Purex Brand has a new fragrance to add to their popular Natural Elements Line. Purex Natural Elements Tropical Splash laundry detergent reminds you of a tropical vacation with the scents of pineapple, coconut and tropical flowers!  The Natural Elements brand of laundry detergents still has all the power of DirtLift Action at half the price of leading detergents, but with naturally sourced ingredients.  This biodegradable formula is gentle enough for sensitive skin and promotes green cleaning practices.

I loved this new scent, and my clothes were clean and bright.  I'm a firm believer of the Purex line of products, they work great and save me money!

GIVEAWAY

Two The Loose Screw readers will win a coupon for new Tropical Splash detergent!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Purex brand provided me with a sample of Purex Natural Elements Tropical Splash detergent in exchange for a product review.  However, all the opinions expressed here are my own.

~Wordless Wednesday~

Book Review~Hidden in the Heart

About Hidden in the Heart: 

"Everything Claire wants seems to be beyond her reach...

After losing her mother to cancer and suffering a miscarriage soon after, Claire Ferguson numbs the pain with alcohol and pills, and wonders if her own life is worth living.

Adopted at birth, Claire is convinced she has some unknown genetic flaw that may have been the cause of her miscarriage. She must find a way to deal with the guilt she harbors. But exoneration will come with a price. With her marriage in trouble and her father refusing to answer any questions about her adoption, Claire begins the search for her birth mother. For the first time in her life, she really wants to know where she came from. But what if the woman who gave her life doesn't want to be found?

Hidden in the Heart has been nominated for a 2013 Grace Award and is on the long list for an INSPY award."

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/jyIxz          

  

My Thoughts: Having been adopted myself and having both adopted and birth children, I knew this book would probably be an emotional one-boy, was it ever!  Hidden in the Heart started a little slow for me, and I also had trouble sorting out the characters for the first four or so chapters.  I think my problem was keeping the characters AND their nicknames straight.  Early on Belinda would be called Lin by another character and I'd think, "Who's Lin?"  But, as soon as I got everyone and their nicknames straight, I was totally into this book.  There are so many emotional topics intertwined-death of a parent, miscarriage, adoption issues, a strained marriage, drug and alcohol abuse, teen pregnancy, and more. Claire's search for her birth mother totally brought back memories of my search years ago, and the emotions that went with it.  I really enjoyed Hidden in the Heart. 

Click here to read more about the book and more reviews!

Meet Catherine:  

  

Catherine West is an award-winning author who writes stories of hope and healing from her island home in Bermuda. Her first novel, "Yesterday's Tomorrow", released in 2011 and won the INSPY for Romance, a Silver Medal in the Reader's Favorite Awards, and was a finalist in the Grace Awards. Catherine's second novel, "Hidden in the Heart", released in September 2012. When she's not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or tending to her roses and orchids. She and her husband have two college-aged children. Learn more about Catherine by visiting her website: http://www.catherinejwest.com

 Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this ebook free from Litfuse Publicity. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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." 

Book Review and TWO Giveaways~Lead Your Family Like Jesus

I've been blessed this year to be part of Tricia Goyer's launch teams.  The most recent book I've reviewed is Lead Your Family Like Jesus from Focus on the Family and authors Ken Blanchard, Phil Hodges, and Tricia Goyer.

About the Book:

(Focus on the Family/Tyndale) - "Does your family need a five-star general at the helm? A psychologist? A referee? Ken Blanchard, best-selling co-author of The One Minute Manager and Lead Like Jesus, points to a better role model: the Son of God. Joined by veteran parents and authors Phil Hodges and Tricia Goyer, renowned business mentor Blanchard shows how every family member benefits when parents take the reins as servant-leaders. Moms and dads will see themselves in a whole new light—as life-changers who get their example, strength, and joy from following Jesus at home. This user-friendly book’s practical principles and personal stories mark the path to a truly Christ-centered family, where integrity, love, grace, self-sacrifice, and forgiveness make all the difference."

Lead Your Family Like Jesus is broken up into four leadership domains: The Heart, The Head, The Hands, and The Habits, with three chapters each.  You can purchase it at several retailers online, including Amazon. You can also click here to be taken to Litfuse's Lead Your Family Like Jesus Landing page, to get more information, order your own copy, and get a free booklet!

My Thoughts/Personal Testimony: 

Lead Your Family Like Jesus is a must-read for parents, grandparents, and anyone with children in their lives!  This book impacted me greatly.  To give you an example of how it impacted me, I have NEVER written, underlined, or highlighted in a book-it just has always seemed wrong.  So when I started reading, I had a notepad to take notes.  I found I was taking SO MANY notes that I decided to underline  (in ink even!) important parts I wanted to remember. This is big for me. So my copy of Lead Your Family Like Jesus is almost all underlined!!  There are so many things I want to share with you from the book, but I know I need to keep the length of this post under control, so here are a few of my favorites quotes: 

"Leading your family like Jesus starts with being led by Jesus.  Being led by Jesus is all about turning to Him, following Him, and knowing He's not only walking beside you on your journey as a parent; He's doing so with tender, loving care."

"Influencing hearts for generations is the true purpose of our parenting."

This one really hit home-on the days you may be stressed, overwhelmed, and short-tempered, "Is this really how you want your kids to remember their home life?"

I also liked the ideas of the Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down game, and the Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes prayer method.  

Although I've only had this book for a few weeks now, I can already feel a difference in myself and subsequently our household. It is so true that Mom can really set the tone for the family. I can't stress enough what a wonderful parenting book this is-be sure to order a copy for yourself, and let friends and family know about it!  Lead Your Family Like Jesus would make a great gift for new parents too!

GIVEAWAY

 *I am having my own giveaway for one hardcover copy of Lead Your Family Like Jesus, and there is a Webcast event on 4/16 you can register for and enter to win an iPad and Tricia Goyer library!

Win your own hardcover copy of Lead Your Family Like Jesus by simply leaving a comment below, answering this question: What family values are important to you and your family?

This contest will run through April 11th. I will choose a winner using random.org, and the winner will receive an email so make sure to leave your email address!! 

WEBCAST EVENT WITH GIVEAWAY

Celebrate the release of Lead Your Family Like Jesus with Tricia by entering her iPad Mini Giveaway and RSVPing for the Lead, Momma Lead LIVE Webcast Event (with MomLife Today's Tracey Eyster) on April 16th.

  One winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• A Tricia Goyer library 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 15th. Winner will be announced at the "Lead, Momma Lead" Live Webcast Event on April 16th. Connect with authors and everyday moms, Tricia Goyer and Tracey Eyster, for an evening of sharing and perspective-changing encouragement for leading your family. Tricia and Tracey will also be taking questions from the audience and giving away books and fun gift certificates throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Lead Your Family Like Jesus and join Tricia and Tracey on the evening of April 16th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 16th!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Litfuse Publicity. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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." 

Book Review~The Gospel-Centered Woman

About the Book: 
"Understanding Biblical Womanhood through the Lens of the Gospel

Many Christian books written to women claim to present God's good instructions for their lives. Some expound on the value of marriage and children. Many extol the virtues of the Proverbs 31 wife. A good number teach the value of love, submission, and respect in Christian marriages. Though this book deals with these topics, The Gospel-Centered Woman addresses women from an entirely different perspective. The most important part of the Bible's instructions to women center around the gospel. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection brought about a seismic shift in our understanding of Scripture. After His resurrection, His disciples understood words written thousands of years before with a clarity they never had previously. The good news of Christ illuminates all other Scripture, including instructions to women. "

TheGospel-Centered Woman is divided into three sections, with chapters in each section. The sections are: 

1. Created in God's Image

2. Redeemed to Reflect God Once More

3.  Wisdom in the Tension

What I Thought: The Gospel-Centered Woman was different from any Women's Bible Study I've ever read.  It really focuses on the Bible and it's instructions to women, whether single or married, with or without children. The chapter that impacted me the most was Chapter 9, Wisdom from Proverbs 31.  The typical Proverbs 31 woman can make many women feel very inferior, and Wendy Alsup approaches it from a different, fresh perspective that opened my eyes to what is really important from this part of the Gospel. I think this book is a must-read for any age woman, and would make a great gift for a newly married woman.

 

Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/jgKJd   

Click here to learn more about The Gospel-Centered Woman and read more reviews.

Meet Wendy:  

  

Wendy Alsup is a wife, mom, and math teacher. She is the author of "Practical Theology for Women: How Knowing God Makes a Difference in Our Daily Lives" and "By His Wounds You are Healed: How the Message of Ephesians Transforms a Woman's Identity". Find out more about Wendy at www.theologyforwomen.org.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book free from Litfuse Publicity as part of a blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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."