Garden of Books (For Teens)

Eve by Anna Carey

2011-10-04T13:27:00.000-05:00

Smart, talented, and attentive Eve is excited to graduate the all girls school that she has spent her life in since the plague struck her world. She's thrilled to become a graduate and move up to studying for her task. However, the night before she's to graduate, she discovers the fate that all of the girls are truly destined to, and knows she needs to escape, any way she can. With some help, she is out and free. However, it is now just the beginning of a frightening and life changing journey to safety for Eve, the question is, will she make it?

I have been excited to read "Eve" for some time now, and was satisfied with the book. Though I couldn't always relate well with the characters and sometimes got very frustrated them, the storyline was lovely and such an interesting point of view. Well after reading this book, I kept thinking about it. What would happen if a plague really did take over and the government abused their powers? Would we all just go along willingly, blindly trusting only to be tricked? Or would we be smarter than that? What would I do? These are all questions that I have been asking myself since reading "Eve." "Eve" was a wonderfully haunting book, and I enjoyed reading Anna Careys first book in this trilogy.

Decluttering Kids Toy Rooms

2011-09-28T09:27:00.002-05:00

We all know the feeling. You walk into the toy room or your kids bedroom...or the living room, and you think "how did it ever get this messy?" And as soon as you start to clean up....you give up because you can't remember where everything went or how it all FIT in that spot, or you just get to overwhelmed. Here are a few tips that I've found to help keep this rooms that your kids spend time in clutter free!

1) Invisible (floating) bookshelves! These are all the rage and make for a neat conversation piece and way to ORGANIZE your books! Not bad, right? They are easy to make, offer book storage, and if done right, can add interest to your room.

2) Vintage Lockers: Vintage lockers are one of my favorite ways to add storage to my room. You can find them for fairly cheap at thrift stores, and you can store anything in them! Dedicate each different locker for a different thing - you could even add shelves to it to add even more storage room!

3) Have a yard sale: How many of the toys sitting in your house do your kids really play with? Sometimes the best option is to have a yard sale or donate to your thrift store. When you get rid of all the extra things you don't need, it is so much easier to organize, find things, and you automatically feel more light headed and neat!

4) Clean every time a mess is made! Instead of waiting for it all to pile up, clean as you go, it will be much easier!

5) Dedicate one day a month to working your super mom powers and giving the room an ultra cleaning session! Dust, vacuum, sweep, and everything else that goes along with it!

6) Baskets: I consider these organized chaos. Dedicate one basket for each different type of toy...barbies in one, legos in another, coloring books in yet another, label them and you have easy, and cute storage that you can pull out when you need them!

7) Ladders: Vintage ladders make for adorably unique storage. Lean them against your wall and set stuff that isn't played with much, or is more valuable, on the steps. There are a lot of great things you can do with this technique!

8) If you have a special toy room, it's good to only choose the most important toys to keep in your little girls or boys room. Or if you have a boy and a girl, possibly let your girl keep her more "girly" toys in her bedroom and your boy his "boy" toys in his bedroom and keep the toys they both enjoy in your toy room.

9) Always keep creative supplies in your toy room somewhere! Coloring books and crayons, pencils, markers, washable paints, creativity is so good for kids and lets them express themselves and grow!

10) A unique way to keep your weekly sports and classes in your head is to take a old mirror with a unique design, paint it a color that matches your room, and spray the inside with chalkboard paint. You now have an adorable and unique chalkboard to write reminders and dates on it! Don't forget the special I love you notes!

With these tips, your on your way to a fabulously clutter free room! Good luck and let me know how they work for you!

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Hot Wheels® blogging program, for a gift card worth $40. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Hereafter

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

Amelia died, however, all she knows is she drowned in the river and a few very small random facts that had came rushing back at her through the years. She doesn't know how old she is, who her family is, what kind of person she was, or how she died, or why she is still aimlessly wondering on earth, alone and confused. That is, until she saves Joshua's life and finds that he can see her. Soon an unrealistic to most, romance begins and with the comes feelings that Amelia never new she could feel again, and danger that she didn't know was possible.

"Hereafter" captivated me after reading only a few pages in. It pulled me in and didn't let me out again until I was too tired to keep my eyelids open. It was such a beautiful book and the characters feel real and like you wanted to help them. I enjoyed that Joshua was so accepting of Amelia even though he was human and she was ghost, I felt like that was more realistic than how many books turn the "discovery" into a frightening unbelievable drama for the person "discovering." It was a nice change! I did feel as if their relationship should have developed through the story a bit more, it almost felt choppy in some places and like it was moving at an odd pace skipping from spot to spot. I very much enjoyed reading "Hereafter" and look forward to reading more from Tara Hudson!

Prom and Prejudice

2011-06-13T12:56:00.002-05:00

Lizzie, being the scholarship student at a prestigious school has not been welcomed with open arms by many. However, she learns to keep her good friends close and be thankful for the opportunity she has at becoming an accomplished pianist. However, throughout the years Lizzie developed a problem with "rich" people, sticking them in a category before she gave them a chance. So when Darcy comes around, she immediately lumps him together with the other people that had given her such a hard time in the past. However, as she unravels his true story, she begins to fall for him harder than she ever imagined.

"Prom and Prejudice" by Elizabeth Eulberg is a hard book for me to review. I can't quite come up with the right words to describe it. This book had so many of the same elements as the original masterpiece, "Pride and Prejudice." I felt like making the characters have not only the same names as in the original (Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Darcy, etc.) as well as very similar personality's, I felt like it was a little too obvious. Even so, I did enjoy this book and it was a fun quick read for a nice Summer day!

Yes Please!

2011-05-24T20:42:00.004-05:00

Love and Lavender

Let me tell you a little secret.....

.....my family and I live in the middle of the woods in a rural area. We have two horses, one dog, and 7 cats (we just had 5 kittens last week). I truly can't imagine living in the cities, or even in a small town. Nope, I love the country life. Especially since the lake is just a walk through our woods away!

However....ever since High Definition TV made it's way into our life, we have right around 6 TV channels with two of them being music video channels. Now, we never used to watch much TV at all, and even less now, but it is nice to relax with the occasional show every now and then, which is why I find Verizon FiOS pretty interesting.....

.....I'll be frank, I only just discovered Verizon FiOS around a month ago. I am an all around Verizon girl, so I was interested to hear about it.

The feature that caught my eye the most? Verizon FiOS has advanced fiber optic technology (did ya get that? I didn't.) so it makes for better pixelation, less interruptions and wallllaaaah and not as much weather interruptions! HDTv is starting to look up....

And it's not to shab when you look at the fact that it's been rated #1 for overall quality and customer care, and value in the 2010 "American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) Survey for the largest subscription TV service providers."

It's not just for the TV though. It's for your cell phone. You can finish last nights TV show on your cell phone....nifty!

And on top of that? You can Tweet and Facebook AND Youtube from your TV using your remote! Crazy indeed!

FiOS isn't just for your cell phone and TV. Nope, it's your internet as well. Tonight I've actually been having problems staying connected to the internet on my laptop, while it's better now, earlier I was resetting the router a sad amount (at least I got my exercise running up and down the steps!) however with FiOS, that issue is close to resolved because it's on of the top rated high speed internet service with very fast speed and very clear video.

While I am happy right now with our 6 TV channels and our internet and cell phone service (through Verizon), I can't help but eye Verizon FiOS and think of what can be done with it.....definitely time efficient and more multi tasking opportunity's that us ladies are so good at ;)

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Verizon FiOS blogging program for a gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.” (make sure you link to http://VerizonFiOS.socialmoms.com/about)

Nothin Like the Summer

2011-05-23T17:01:00.002-05:00

Image

A large portion of my life has been spent on the road, traveling with my family. We have spent four winters in the camper traveling through Texas, Florida, and California, months at a time. Traveling is second nature to us, and we have stumbled across some amazing sights because of it. Sights that I think that every kid should see and would make wonderful Summer escapes.

Yosemite National Forest:
Yosemite is aaaaabbbbsoooolutely breathtaking. The moment you enter the park it is just stunning and magnificent. We went in the Winter with our camper, but had to leave only a day later because of a snowstorm that was coming in ( on top of the already 5 foot in some areas snow!) - and we would not be able to get out with our camper! It is definitely a place to go in the Spring, Summer, or even Fall. Treck your way past Vernal Falls on the Mist trail and with the sun behind your back, and if the falls are so full that you are getting splashed, you just might capture a full rainbow right in front of you! (tip from "The Photographers Guide to Yosemite") Gorgeous indeed and what a photo opp!

San Francisco:
San Francisco must be my one of my favorite city's that I've visited. It is so full of life and history, surprising and exciting things to be found in every corner. The countryside of San Francisco is equally gorgeous, be sure to visit the beach (no swimming - sharks!) and the lighthouse. It's quite a trek down stairs that are equivalent to 30 stories, but hey, it's good exercise right?!

Image taken by myself - San Francisco Light House

Tarpon Springs Florida:
Tarpon Springs tops my list for another favorite town. It is Grecian goodness all around, sporting a small town vibe, it is just a lovely atmosphere to spend the day meandering around exploring the little shops, checking out the aquarium, having some delicious ice cream, and ending the day with some dancing found right around the corner.

North Padre Island Texas:
While South Padre is the go to town tourist town, I have a special place in my heart for North Padre Island. Secluded and not busy at all, with dunes that you might here Coyotes howling in at night, horseback riding on the beach, and a less teenagery touristy vibe than other beaches, it is a great place to visit.

Calico Ghost Town (California):
This was one of my favorite campgrounds to stay at. It is a revamped old Silver miners town and has a old grave site, a mine to walk through, lots of shops to meander through, and is a great place to explore. A wonderful place to bring the family!

What are you favorite destinations? Any funny traveling stories? I know that I have a few...but we'll save those for another post!

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Alamo blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Purple Heart Book Review

2011-05-02T16:26:00.002-05:00

Amazon Product Description:

When Private Matt Duffy wakes up in an army hospital in Iraq, he's honored with a Purple Heart. But he doesn't feel like a hero.

There's a memory that haunts him: an image of a young Iraqi boy as a bullet hits his chest. Matt can't shake the feeling that he was somehow involved in his death. But because of a head injury he sustained just moments after the boy was shot, Matt can't quite put all the pieces together.

Eventually Matt is sent back into combat with his squad—Justin, Wolf, and Charlene—the soldiers who have become his family during his time in Iraq. He just wants to go back to being the soldier he once was. But he sees potential threats everywhere and lives in fear of not being able to pull the trigger when the time comes. In combat there is no black-and-white, and Matt soon discovers that the notion of who is guilty is very complicated indeed.

National Book Award Finalist Patricia McCormick has written a visceral and compelling portrait of life in a war zone, where loyalty is valued above all, and death is terrifyingly commonplace.

My thoughts:

I was only able to get to page 62 before I finished. I wasn't able to "get" into it. The plot felt very slow and like there was never any changes, and as if the story line wasn't moving. Even so, a few of the things that I read, really stuck with me and I am always remembering them. Though I wasn't especially able to get into "Purple Heart," I do think that this would be a great book for a young adult boy with an interest in the military.

The Last Little Blue Envelope by Maureen Johnson

2011-05-02T15:51:00.002-05:00

When I first picked up a young adult book many years ago at the library, "14 Little Blue Envelopes" was one of the first ones. And I've loved it since! Maureen Johnson helped me get into the world of young adult books because of her book, and look what was the result!

I was excited when I found out that she was writing "The Last Little Blue Envelope." And was thrilled with I was sent a copy to review (100% of opinions in this review are off my own.). In the last installment of this series, Ginny retrieves her lost envelope and finds her way back in Paris and is un - happily surprised by a few new changes. However, she begins to find love in unique places as she unravels the crazy mystery that her aunt left behind for her.

Maureen Johnson's books are must reads, and perfect to past down again and again.

On my Wishlist

2011-04-14T21:36:00.003-05:00

"Matt and Liz Logelin were high school sweethearts. After years of long-distance dating, the pair finally settled together in Los Angeles, and they had it all: a perfect marriage, a gorgeous new home, and a baby girl on the way. Liz's pregnancy was rocky, but they welcomed Madeline, beautiful and healthy, into the world on March 24, 2008.

Just twenty-seven hours later, Liz suffered a pulmonary embolism and died instantly, without ever holding the daughter whose arrival she had so eagerly awaited. Though confronted with devastating grief and the responsibilities of a new and single father, Matt did not surrender to devastation; he chose to keep moving forward-- to make a life for Maddy.

In this memoir, Matt shares bittersweet and often humorous anecdotes of his courtship and marriage to Liz; of relying on his newborn daughter for the support that she unknowingly provided; and of the extraordinary online community of strangers who have become his friends. In honoring Liz's legacy, heartache has become solace."

Description from Amazon

Does this book not sound wonderful? Have you read it?

Shanti Generation {DVD Review}

2011-04-01T18:03:00.002-05:00

When I received "Shanti Generation" I expected a lot from the DVD. There are a lot of yoga DVD's and materials out there, so I was hoping this one might set standards. However, I was disappointed.

"Shanti Generation" is unique from other Yoga DVD's because it focuses on teens. There are many younger kids yoga materials and there are of course, many adult products. However, not a lot of teen materials on yoga, and so "Shanti Generation" is one of the few in the niche.

When I opened my package, the DVD's weren't very secure. The packaging is eco friendly (Yes!) however, the DVD's have a hard time staying in! The DVD holder flap opens like a book, so it doesn't stay secure if your DVD slips out of the slot, which it does often. Especially if you grab the case quickly, or if your holding it upside down - say, reading the back.

I still had some hopes for this little DVD, as I popped it in my laptop to watch. However, I didn't much enjoy the format and thought that the poses were too easy. However, I have been practicing yoga for a few years now, so that may be part of it. I think it would be good for a very new beginner ages 9-13.

The yoga studio that they filmed the movie in, was nice, however!

While this might not have been the DVD for me, it really depends on the person! There are a lot of different yoga styles and personalities to boot. I like very active yoga and enjoy a challenge, always pushing myself. This DVD definitely has a more relaxing, calming feel, which would be great for a lot of kids and teens to escape from the hectic life they lead!

AN Window and Lawn - Two Teenagers Success Story

2011-03-21T11:12:00.003-05:00

Last night, I watched the amazing "Social Network." Oh - my - goodness. What an amazing documentary! How inspiring! And how smart the Harvard students are. Whenever I here success stories such as that one for young people, it does inspire me. And of course, I want to shout it out to the world, hopefully loud enough to inspire someone else. Let me introduce you to AN Window and Lawn Services.

While yes, this may be on a much smaller scale that Mark (Facebook CEO) did, but everything starts somewhere. Nathan (now 18) and Andy (18) began a lawn and window service a year ago. Doesn't sound too exciting?

Just take a look at their website - AN Window and Lawn
Their blog
AND
Facebook Page

Their website is better designed than a lot of websites that I have seen by adults. It's one thing to start a business - it's another to have a web presence that grows your business to something that makes money and helps you gain clients.

The message of this story? Anyone can do something if you put your mind to it and don't let anything get in your way. Keep going, it will happen.

Book Review: Slept Away

2011-03-11T16:09:00.000-06:00

Slept Away

I’ve been traveling home with my family from California back to Minnesota and it’s been a looong, very cramped ride. I’m sitting in the backseat right now, we’ve been driving since a little after 7:00 this morning and its 6:22 at night right now. We’ll be driving until we reach home at 12:00 (thanks GPS!) this morning. It’s such a long and boring drive, but it’s given me time to catch up on some great books! I finished “Slept Away” today and thought that it was perfect for the drive, it is light hearted, witty, and easy to read. I did get annoyed at Laney’s over dramatization that could be found on almost every page, however, in all it was a great book perfect for a summer day or a long road trip!

Laney and her best friend Kennedy are making plans for an amazing summer. Laney? She would love to apprentice in the Fashion world and snag up some awesome swag, while Kennedy is getting a nose job. However, Laney’s summer is turned upside down when her mom announces that she’s shipping her off to a six week summer camp in Pennsylvania. Keep in mind that Laney has lived in New York her entire life, sky scrapers everywhere she looks. When she reaches camp, it’s even worse than she expected, the other girls her age find any reason to pick on her, and she’s definitely not used to the nature and less than top notch facilities that surround her. However, she finds a friend, making her stay somewhat bearable. Laney soon realizes how truly valuable her new friendship is when she helps her through the worst of times and embarrassment – especially following the humiliation of the swimming competition that she is forced to compete in. By the end of camp, while Laney doesn’t ever wish to go back to camp, she finds that she wouldn’t take it back and the new friendships that she made and the better person that she became because of it. “Slept Away” is another book that your going to want to add to your summer beach bag (because Summer’s really is just around the corner, isn’t it? *glances outside at the 3 foot snow drifts*

Book Review..."Fallen Grace"

2011-03-10T10:46:00.001-06:00

Fallen Grace

Grace, just shy of 16 who cares for her older sister by a year, Lily, as if she were the older of the two rather than the other way around finds herself and Lily living in the harsh poverty that many of Londons citizens faced around the time of the 1840’s. Grace and Lily struggle to make enough money by selling watercress on the streets, while trying to move up in ranks in the world, and while Lily’s hoping her Father that left for sea when they were young would return, Grace struggles with the sadness and that came from the death of her baby and the struggles of their current conditions. However, soon a advertisement in “The Mercury” announced that whomever found Lily and their now passed away mother would receive ten percent of the huge amount of money left behind for them. However, Lily and Grace have no idea that the entire law community of London is abuzz over them and when the secret unfolds, and Grace has figured out the vulgar secret of their current employers, she must find a way to make things right again.

Though the characters may be fictional, they seem as real as the historical accuracy in a good historic novel, such as “Fallen Grace” written by Mary Hooper. In “Fallen Grace” the characters are told in such a manner that you begin to relate to them in a unique way, as if you were a family member trying your best to look after them yourself. I found “Fallen Grace” to have a lot of great aspects, the time setting was perfect and I really enjoyed a story about a different type of trade that two poor sisters had found themselves in, funerals, which then forth piques the reader’s interest of the effects of cholera and the harsh burying situations that had become so apparent in those trying times. “Fallen Grace” was a wonderful historical fiction that was clever and unique at the same time. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and am looking forward to more of Mary Hoopers works!

Traveling with the Family

2011-03-09T18:24:00.002-06:00

Paris

My family an I travel a lot. In fact, we just got back from a 2 month vacation in California. Yup, you read it right, 2 months! In the camper. 2 teenagers, 2 adults and one dog. It got cramped, it got stinky, it got crowded, and it even got moldy, at times. Would I have taken it back? Not a chance. Our family is used to driving for 16 hours straight - in a few days we are going on a 4 hour drive to see our family, that will feel like nothing! One good thing about traveling a lot is that you begin to learn the ins and outs of saving money (because it does cost a lot!) and having fun. Lets just call it camper hacking.

1) Pay for campgrounds ahead of time.
That way you'll be sure that they won't be booked when you get there. Especially if your visiting campgrounds that are in popular areas - in particular - beaches. It's great to support state and national parks and beaches, many of them have camping with hook ups and the sights are gorgeous! Plus, your helping to preserve the land. In California, many of the parks are closing because of lack of funds, it really is sad!

2) Stock up on essentials.
Sometimes its hard to find a good grocery store when your camping - especially in touristy towns where the food will be very high priced. Stock up on things you know you'll need and that won't go bad, such as cereal.

3) Go to museums for free.
Museums and aquariums are a lot of fun to learn about the area and explore different things. Something that a lot of people might not know about is that often the smaller ones will have a day of the month that admission is free! Usually it's on weekdays, but it's a great deal!

4) Free entertainment.
Find things to do that are fun and free! Beaches are often free to go to, hiking is always a fun option, you can also talk to residents in the area to find fun things to do on the cheap!

5) Gas up!
Gas is often very highly priced in touristy towns, or towns that are very rural. On our trip, we noticed that diesel was high pretty much everywhere ($4+) except in towns such as Las Vegas!

6) Doggie waste....
There's always grumbling when it comes to cleaning up the pooches poop. Save plastic bags from Walmart or other stores to use while camping!

7) Plane tickets
Flying? It can be hard to cough up the money for an expensive plane ticket. So, why not find a cheap one? Spend extra time searching through sites such as Travelocity and Priceline.

8) Add up those miles
There are loads of sources to getting air miles, that you can redeem for great trips! A great resource to learn more about this is travelhacking.org - which I was a member of during our trip, great program Chris has put together!

9) Triple A
You wouldn't believe all of the times Triple A has swooped in to save the day. For $10, it's worth it. You'll be thanking me when you lock your keys in the truck, or be stranded on the side of the road because the gas wasn't reaching the lines due to the very steep mountains! (Yes, it's happened!)

10) Have fun.
You'll make mistakes. You'll find yourself in crazy situations. Just remember to laugh through them and make light of them. In a few years, you very well might remember them better than the rides at Disney World.

Traveling is a lot of fun, there's so much to see in the world! Don't let the economy stop you, I hope you can put some of these tips to good use!

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Alamo blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

666 Park Avenue.

2011-03-05T12:09:00.001-06:00

666 Park Avenue

There’s the chic – high society, Gossip Girl books. There’s the haunting Twilight series. Both loved by many, teens and adults alike, but reading “666 Park Avenue” by Gabriella Pierce is like indulging into a mixture of the best of both worlds. Paranormalcy mixed with high society makes this book unique and keep you hanging on to find out what’s going to happen next.

Jane has fallen head over heels with her fiancé, Malcolm and after living her entire life in France, they head to the family home in New York. After stopping at her Grandmothers, her only family member that she has left, to announce her exciting news and say goodbye, she finds out that she died and finds a disturbing letter and ring to go along with the news. Jane, trying to ignore her newly found powers, keeps it a secret from her fiancé and plays along with her to-be stepmother’s crazy wedding plans that have nothing to do with Jane’s own wishes. However, she soon begins to unravel the horrifying secrets of the family that she is marrying into and realizes her step mother’s ulterior motive, and begins to hide her powers from her step mother until her and Malcolm can safely escape after the wedding and vanish from the New York scene. However, as Jane’s own powers begin to grow, she finds out an even more terrifying secret that Malcolm had been keeping from her, and finds her in a deadly position. Will Jane find her way back to safety? What will happen with her relationship with Malcolm? There’s only one way to find out.

I really enjoyed reading this novel; it was so different from any other paranormal book that I’ve read and was such a nice change! I am excited that this will be a series and will be anxiously awaiting the next. When I look back at reading the book, in some aspects I feel like the characters were at time, hard to relate to and “really” get in their heads and feel what they were feeling like some books, however the great story line, the vivid writing, and the occasional haunting feel well made up for it and I was pleased to find that “666 Park Avenue” is a book that I would recommend!

I received a copy of this book to review and give my 100% honest opinion on.

What my Kids would think of I was abducted by Martians

2011-02-28T15:33:00.003-06:00

Alexandra Sophie

Have you ever wondered, "what would happen if you were abducted?" Or if there really were aliens? I remember a few months ago, my little brother came barreling into my bedroom and proclaimed that something was really weird in the sky that night. There was a group of stars that weren't just "twinkling" they were moving, really moving! Nope, not an airplane or satellite. Doing extensive internet research we came up with one solution. A UFO (unidentified flying object).

When I heard about this opportunity I knew I had to take it, the prompt being, "What would your kids think if you were abducted by martians?"

Well, first off.....

1) I'm sure I would be abducted in the middle of the night. Probably while I was outside through the woods checking to make sure the horses gate was latched shut or the clippers were put away because I couldn't sleep thinking of the "what ifs...." No one would hear my screams, no one would know. Except Bailee and Figment, but they would probably just wonder why I was being so obnoxious and continue munching on their hay. I suppose stranger things could happen!

Anyways, when my kids wake up in the morning, they probably would first wonder why Mommy let them sleep in so late. At first I believe they would be happy to sleep in, but pretty soon they would begin to miss morning kisses.

2) This one is definite - they would miss my cooking.

3) They would very much miss my help feeding the horses, and exercising them, and scooping manure, and, and, and....

4) Bed time kisses.

5) Cleaning!

6) Trips to the park. How they love going on bike rides to the park, and who would swing their swings? And strap their helmets on? Kiss their scrapes when they fall?

7) Grocery shopping, it's so hard to do when you don't know what your looking for or where to find it. I can't imagine my kiddos grocery shopping alone!

8) Fort builders. All the days of building fancy elaborate forts out of pretty blankets and fluffy pillows would be gone. It's so much harder to play pirates or by Alladin and Jasmine without a fancy hide out!

9) Making popcorn. They love when I make homemade popcorn and cuddle up with them to watch a movie, we would both miss this!

10) To and from horseback riding lessons. This one would be much missed from all three kiddos! Hunter jumping training isn't a hobby, it's a lifestyle for all of us!

Its amazing to even imagine being abducted by martians. I know I would miss my family just as much as they missed me, ALOT! It would truly be a terrible adventure!

What would your family miss if you were abducted by aliens?

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

"The Secret Life of Emily Dickinson"

2011-02-22T19:33:00.003-06:00

"A word is dead when it is said, some say. I say it just begins to live that day."
~Emily Dickinson

When I first picked up to read “The Secret Life of Emily Dickinson,” I wasn’t sure what to expect. Actually, that’s wrong. I had high hopes for the book. I really love historical novels and the only thing that I doubted about Emily Dickinsons story told by Jerome Charyn only in the aspect that, like some historical fictions, it would drag on. Was I ever wrong!

Before reading “The Secret Life of Emily Dickinson” I hadn’t known much about Emily, one of the greatest poetry prodigies. To one who only has studied the basics of her life, they might wonder, how could she have came up with such fire filled, poignant, and deep poems, when she spent years upon years of her life, staying in her Fathers home. By reading “The Secret Life of Emily Dickinson” you become indulged an entirely different point of view of her life, the experiences that she may very likely experienced, that our English teachers probably skipped over. Jerome Charyn did a wonderful job tell Emily’s story in a delightful, interesting way, letting you into Emily’s life and feeling her pain and happiness. From the people she loved, her many heartbreaks, her sweet dog, her moon blindness that she overcame, people that flitted in and out of her life, and others that haunted her for years, many will be surprised and delighted to take a deeper look at what gave her the “lighting” to write such amazing poems, that are still read and admired today.

Disclosure: I was given this book to borrow. All thoughts and opinions are of my own.

Share the Happiness!

2011-02-16T16:44:00.000-06:00

When I was given the prompt to write a post on the “little ways I share happiness with people around me” a few different things popped into my mind. Right now, I am in the middle of the mountains, we are the only people staying at this campground, the water tastes like chlorine, it’s poring out and super windy, and tomorrows my birthday. Oh, did I mention it’s supposed to snow tonight? In California? While the snow is melting and turning into slush in Minnesota? Ha! Well, it’s easy to dwell on the sorry things in this story that I’m living right now, but it’s so much more fun to look at the other side of it – the happy side. When your happy, everyone else around you seems to feed of your positive energy and embrace it, even if your experiencing less than perfect circumstances at the time!

~Laugh. It’s so easy, to look at the bad things and instead of cry, laugh. A real belly laugh. Think of when you’ll be remembering your story five years from now, you will be laughing, so lets embrace and let the laughter come quicker! One person laughing will soon be two, three, and before you know it, everyone will have a smile on their faces.

~One of my favorite things that seem to have gotten lost as media has developed are letters and sweet little packages. I love to send a hand written card to someone special, a friend, or a family member. Package it up with pretty bows and it will bring a smile to the receivers face, knowing that you thought of them.

~Sharing a compliment is a sure way to bring happiness to someone’s day. Kind words are so easy and take hardly any time to say, and they will stay with someone for the entire day, week, month, or longer, giving them that extra bounce in their step and self esteem. I still remember when we stopped at a gas station and I complimented a lady on her hair, the surprise on her face surprised me!

~Putting yourself down. This is one I catch myself doing sometimes. It’s so simple to do, saying that your bad at certain things puts a negative feeling in the air. Embrace what you are good at and don’t dwell on the things that you still are working on, it sets a good example on everyone else!

How does your mind garden grow? My goal is to have one full of happiness, bright cheery flowers to be picked and handed out to everyone around. What colors yours?

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Hershey's blogging program, for a gift card worth $25 and some product. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Dinner Etiquette

2011-02-10T13:34:00.003-06:00

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It seems as if many of the things that family's felt important in older times, the 1900's, 1920's, 1950's, etc, have been lost along the way. Pajamas are worn to the grocery store and movie theater rather than sweet skirts and blouses, are even just a pair of jeans! Our language has become lazy, we send emails rather than letters, and, what we'll be focusing on today, dinner etiquette.

Dinner's used to be a time to spend with your family, a time to share the funny, crazy, wild, and sometimes bad, things that have happened throughout your day. Laughter, smiles, and sometimes tears were shared while eating Mommas homemade chicken noodle soup. Now, it's easy to skip over traditions and grab something on the go, or let your family eat when they feel like it "Sammy - there's canned chicken noodle soup if you want to heat it up for lunch!" While it's sometimes more sensible and easier to eat something fast, it is nice to have those sit down meals to have some quality family time. Here are some of my favorite dinner etiquette tips!

DO Eat together, while the rest of the day is in a hustle and bustle going from here to there and back again, it's nice to have some time to relax with your entire family. You'll find that some of the best conversations happen at your dinner table.

DON'T Put the fork on the wrong side of the plate - don't worry - I've done this my entire life for some reason and can't seem to get it right, creature of habit I suppose? Try not to though, as it results in plentiful of teasing and plus, you'll have to reset them!

DO Laugh Lots! Nothing like a good laughter to make the meal a fun place!

DON'T Forget the salt when company is over! My family never uses salt, so when our company comes over and we don't put it on the table, we usually can't even find it to put it on the table for them! Keep a small stock of salt and leave it in a place that you'll remember!

DON'T Put your elbows on the table if your a lady!

DON'T Text while eating! One of the most annoying habits it texting, or checking your email, while your with friends or family, breakfast, lunch and dinner included! Save your internet time for afterward when you can really concentrate on what your reading!

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Kraft Homestyle Macaroni and Cheese blogging program, for a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Guest Review! A Summers Secret

2011-02-04T14:58:00.001-06:00

A Summer Secret by Kathleen Fuller is a tween book, but I enjoyed it. This book is great for a light summer read, and I think that any age person who loves Kathleen Fuller or Amish books will enjoy A Summer Secret!

I love the fact that this is an Amish mystery, it really adds a level of intrigue to the story, and I believe that this would be a draw to younger teens. 13 year old Mary Beth is a typical teenager, full of pranks and desires and is a bit rebellious. Mary Beth likes to have some time alone, and an old abandoned barn calls out to her, it's the perfect place to get away from her 3 brothers, the only problem is that her twin brother knows her secret, and when Mary Beth finds a button in the barn she is drawn into a mystery, will her brother keep her secret?

This book was very enjoyable and I highly recommend any of Kathleen's books, I have yet to read one that I have not enjoyed.

I received a complimentary copy of this book to review from Book Sneeze.

Review by Lauri of Knits and Reads

"A wounded deer leaps the highest."

2011-02-02T15:45:00.003-06:00

Don't you love her socks and flats? Fffound

So, here we are. Yucca Valley California. The town looks like a really oooollld Cowboy town, somewhat run down, but kept nice and clean at the same time. There are a few lovely antique and vintage shops that I've stopped at and barely was able to drag myself away from this stunning 50's dress. Flouncy, cream colored, classy, and with a red bow in the back. Perfection. I would have snatched it up in a second if it was a bit lower priced than $70. Sigh. I won't forget that dress though.

This campground that were staying at, is...interesting to say the least. There are 14 camp sites, and the water is cloudy, not the least bit clear. The wifi that they promised is truly hopeless.

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A wounded deer leaps the highest.
~Emily Dickinson

However, I wanted to quick let you know about this great book I'm reading. "The Secret Life of Emily Dickinson." I've reached part two and have been sucked in from the first couple of pages. Unlike other historical books retold, this one really is interesting and you feel like Miss Emily is the one telling her story. I've found it's a perfect read to learn more about Emily Dickinson in an easy way! I also think this would be a great read to incorporate into a homeschooling program for history and literature.

Have you read this book? What where your thoughts?

When Angels Fly {Unearthly Review}

2011-02-02T14:44:00.005-06:00

Book: "Unearthly"
Author: Cynthia Hand
Rating: 4 out of 5

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Sometimes, you come across a book that with every word you read, you are transported into a different world. You’re there with the character, feeling their emotions as if they were your own, smelling the surroundings, letting everything sink in as if you were a part of the ongoing story that extends much farther than the last page of the book. “Unearthly” by Cynthia Hand is part of this very select group. Another book that I’ve put in this group is the ever famous J.K. Rowlings. When you are watching the movie of the book and you feel as if you’ve already seen what was happening before you ever watched the movie, you know that the writer was able to convey their story in a truly magical way.

“Unearthly” could be the story of a typical teenage girl falling in love, getting confused, and falling out and back into love all over again in new ways. However, it’s not. There’s a twist. Clara is a quarter angel, and soon finds herself, her mom, and little brother leaving everything they’ve ever known in California to the mountains of Wyoming. Everything is different, the school, the people in the school, their house, everything. Clara’s purpose is unfolding and she needs to uncover many secrets before the day comes when she’ll need to fulfill it. However, she finds love in unexpected places and soon has to make choices that could change everything. Cynthia has put together a delightful masterpiece that sucks you in and keeps you wondering even after your finish the last word.

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Discolosure: I received this book for free to review. Even so, I gave my completely honest opinion and expressed my own thoughts.

4 Free ARC's and 3 Non ARC's to anyone interested in!

2010-12-20T23:05:00.006-06:00

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Hey everyone!

Sorry for not updating for so long, I've been insanely busy, working on my other blog but I am going to be trying to fit more time in for this blog to keep you guys in the know with all the great YA books coming out! Plus...I have an idea that I will be introducing soon that I know you guys will love!

Anyways, as for now, I have 4 ARC'S that I would love to give away to any of my readers to review on their blogs. All you have to do is pay shipping! As of now I have:

"Prom and Party Etiquette"
"Firelight"
"Wildthorn"
"The Ruby in the Smoke"

I also have three books that are NOT ARC's that are looking for a home....

"Snow Queen"
"Perfect Shot"
"Jennifer's Body"

If you are interested in any, please leave a comment and I will email you! Otherwise you can email me at countrystars95@yaho.com!

5 Health Benefit decisions to make in an hour

2010-10-26T20:44:00.006-05:00

Right now, our world is experiencing higher and higher rates of obesity. Not just in adults either, it is happening in our children and teens as well! Adults, we all need to set good examples for the younger generations to help them live a longer, healthier lifestyle. By setting good examples, you will not only be helping yourselves, but you will be helping our country! Way for an incentive! We find it hard sometimes though, to find the right health care plan, and to find ways to save money and think smart when finding one. Think about these tips in your search!

1. Is being healthy important to you?
Did you know that 25% adults have skipped their annual physicals? Or how about that about 10% have canceled their gym memberships? And all of the adults were insured? (Stats) Are you one of them? While you might be thinking that your saving money at time, you actually aren't in the long run! A lot of health plans pay for your physicals and even sometimes offer a discount for your gym membership. It's healthier to stay healthy.

2. Generic VS. Prescription
Switching to generic from prescription can save you possibly over $1000 a year, and it is recommended by many doctors. This is an easy option worth looking into if you have a lot of prescriptions, that have very similar generic options. (consult doctor first with this decision)

3. Compare
It's always a great idea to compare your health care plan with others. Take a look around at other plans, one plan isn't for everyone! Even though your current plan might be great for you sister, it might not be the one for you! There are many different benefits that different plans offer, find the one that's right for you!

4. Talk
One thing you don't want to do when your searching for a new health care plan is quickly choose one and be done with it. Go over the different options carefully with your spouse and really think it through - it's for your family, everything has to be as perfect as possible, take the time to make it possible!

5. Use your benefits!
When you have a health care plan, it is important to use your benefits! If your health plan offers free check ups, dental cleaning, eye checks, and more, be sure to use them! Always know what your plan offers and be sure to take use everything to the extent. By doing this, you will be using the benefits that you are paying for, and keeping yourself healthy at the same time!

See, it's not so hard to make simple changes in one hour to help save money with your health care plan. It's always important to check things over and make sure they suit yours and your family's lifestyles. Remember that it's ok to change things if other things in your life change as well! And don't forget, to take advantage of those benefits, it will lead to a healthier YOU!

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“I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Aetna blogging program, making me eligible to get a $30 Target gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Every Little Thing in the World

2010-10-01T19:11:00.002-05:00

Book: Every Little thing in the World
Author: Nina De Gramont
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 5 out of 5
Disclosure: I rented this book from the library
Purchase

Sydney is one of those girls who everyone has high expectations for. She lives a nice life, and goes to a nice private school. However, she soon starts going to parties because her best friend, Natalia's boyfriend is always going, which results in her meeting Tommy. After sneaking away to Natalia's families cabin with Tommy, Natalia, and Natalia's boyfriend, she comes back and soon realizes that she is pregnant. It doesn't feel real to her yet, she doesn't feel anything changing inside her and she isn't having any cravings, plus, her stomach is still flat, she really can't be pregnant, can she? She tells herself these things, but deep down, she knows that she got herself into some big trouble and is going to have to figure out a way to make it better. On top of all this, her and Natalia got caught "borrowing" Natalia's moms car and going to a party, and are in big trouble with their parents. As punishment, their parent's send them of to a camp in Canada where they will be canoeing for weeks. Sydney looks forward to not having to worry about her current situation, and while on her trip she grows and becomes a better person, and has to make some hard choices along the way.

This book was - amazing. I read it from start to finish in one day, and that is uncommon for me! The characters are believable and very well written in the book. Between Mick, the bad guy, that everyone begins to learn really does have a sweet side, to the counselor who never talks, there is such a variety in personalities, it really makes it all the more interesting. I found myself really hoping for Sydney to make the right decisions throughout the book, though it was hard for her with pressure from Natalia. This book was very well written and I am really looking forward to reading more from Nina!

Earn free Amazon Giftcards Easily!!

2010-09-24T10:21:00.003-05:00

It seems like us book bloggers are always spending money on Amazon - it is the hot spot for buying books as they are much cheaper than purchasing them at places like Barnes and Noble or Borders - even Walmart or garage sales sometimes! Thats were Swagbucks comes in handy.

I have been eyeing a few things on Amazon lately - a new ipod dock, a few different books, and most of all a Olympus 50mm f/2.0 Telephoto Macro ED Lens for E1, E300 & E500 Digital SLR Cameras!! I can hardly wait to finally buy this lense, it is amazing! Anyways - back on topic. This lense costs $438.99 on Amazon - and thats way cheaper than if you bought it at a retail store, BUT it's still just a wee bit expensive for my budget (ok, more than a wee bit!) and so I've been saving up my Swagbucks to earn enough Amazon gift cards to buy it for free - or at least a lot cheaper!

I am already up to I think close to $60 in free Amazon gift cards that I've earned from swagbucks! This is the only place that I've stuck with to earn giftcards - and the only place I've actually earned a gift card with! All you have to do is use Swagbucks to search - pretend its Google, type in the same things as you would in Google and randomly, you will earn swagbucks! This is a great way to earn a few extra dollars to spend on Amazon! I've even heard of bloggers earning enough gift cards to get a free Wii on Amazon!

~ The Ivy ~

2010-09-12T18:58:00.001-05:00

Book: The Ivy
Author: Lauren Kunze and Rina Onur
Cover Rating: 1 out of 5
Book rating: 3.5 out of 5

Harvard - you either get in or you don't and when your in, it's not just homework and learning, its everything else in between. From new friendships, to those new friendships vanishing quicker than they began. Love, parties, and everything in between, will Callie survive as the blonde girl from LA that seems to be getting all the boys attention? One things for sure - when one of the most popular girl gets jealous, she'll do anything to get revenge.

"The Ivy" was a questionable book for me. I liked it, but then I didn't. I really didn't like how Callie seemed to make the same bad decisions over and over again, expecting that she can just say sorry and then going out and doing it again! On another note though, it kept me reading and wanting to find out what was going to happen next. I didn't feel like I could really "get" most of the characters, except for Mimi, the French girl. Everything seemed so unreliable, but in the end it seemed to work!

Win one of two copies of "The Clearing"

2010-08-03T18:23:00.004-05:00

Remember this wonderful book that I posted a review on a few months back about?

Well, here is your chance to win a copy!

I am giving away two copies of "The Clearing" to two lucky readers of this blog!

How do you enter?

Tell me what your favorite book of the summer has been!

+1 Entry: Visit Venetian Masks and come back and in a separate comment tell me which mask was your favorite!

That's all you have to do! Feel free to tweet, blog, or email about it, but I want to make it easy for you to enter so I'm only doing one way to enter!

Ends: August 19th

Disclosure: I was given copies of "The Clearing" to giveaway at no charge

Like this? Follow me on Twitter for more!

I am looking forward to...

2010-08-03T18:15:00.001-05:00

I can't wait for "My Unfair Godmother" to be released! I'm sure its going to be amazing! And isn't that a great cover design?

It will be out sometime in 2011!

What upcoming books are you looking forward to?

The Secret Diary of Ashley Juergens

2010-06-16T09:32:00.002-05:00

I receive a commission if a book is purchased from this link

Book: The Secret Diary of Ashley Juergens
You will like if: You enjoy watching the "Secret Life of the American Teenager" series
Rating: 4 out of 5
Cove rating: 5 out of 5

From watching the TV show, viewers will notice that Ashley Juergons is somewhat secret, a little naughty, and greatly sensible and has a lot of wisdom that many her age - or older - do not. Because the TV show is so focused on Amy and how her life goes as being a pregnant fifteen year old, we often don't see Ashley's side of the story and what she is feeling. That is why this book is so good for Secret Life fans, as Ashley writes in her "journal" her thoughts and points of views on things.

I have watched the entire series of "The Secret Life of the American Teenager" and so I was excited when I received Ashley's diary to review at no cost and with my honest opinion from (Hyperion) publishers. I really did enjoy reading through her diary because it gave a fresh perspective on things. However, I wished that maybe it was more current rather than starting before she even knew Amy was having a baby. Maybe Hyperion will make it a series and we will see a book #2?

Have you watched "The Secret Life of the American Teenager?"

Fast Twitter "The Clearing" Giveaway!

2010-05-13T12:29:00.003-05:00

I have a copy of "The Clearing," thanks to a wonderful publicist from Graphia, to give away to one lucky Twitter follower!

How do you win it?

Follow my on Twitter at polopony95 and tweet out this message:
Win "The Clearing" by Heather Davis by following @polopony95 and RT'ing this message! 30th RT wins! http://bit.ly/dkVvfK

Good luck!

Also, stay tuned because I'm going to be having more great giveaways going on for copies of "The Clearing!"

Disclaimer: I was given copies of "The Clearing" to giveaway at no charge

"Plain Paradise" Guest Blogger

2010-05-05T11:37:00.000-05:00

Plain Paradise, by Beth Wiseman does not disappoint. This is the 4th Daughter's of the Promise Novel, yet you do not have to read the previous books to understand the story line.

Imagine being 17 and forced to give up your child. Then imagine finding out that you are going to die in under a year. Meet Josie, who is working through pain and suffering and moves to be closer to the daughter she never met. Linda wakes one day to a stranger on her front porch, learning soon that this is her birth mother...when she never knew she was adopted. Linda feels betrayed, yet becomes friends with Josie and comes to terms with the betrayal from her family. As the book progresses so does Josie and Linda's relationship, an unexpected twist happens which only makes the story more delightful. Will Linda be able to love two mom's and what about her beau who worries about Linda leaving the Amish, hope and love can conquer many things, will hope and love conquer in this story?

This was a great book, I love learning about the Amish and it always amazes me how similar their lives are to the rest of ours outside the Amish community. This is a light read, but a good read and quite entertaining!

*I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review blogger's program. 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.”

Planning a "Fancy Nancy" Tea Party

2010-05-04T09:58:00.004-05:00

Little girls go wild over "Fancy Nancy" and would be thrilled to have a "Fancy Nancy" tea party. Can you imagine? Bright colors, frills, cupcakes, and little girl smiles? Oh, and we can't forget the tea! Perfect!

When looking for the perfect tea cups, be sure to check thrift stores. You can find some adorable ones that are funky! You could even find white ones and have the girls decorate them with special paint.

There are a lot of different ways you can incorporate Fancy Nancy into your party. Look for feather boas at thrift stores and garage sales. You could also host a mini fashion show and provide them clothes to dress up with! Another fun project would be to purchase straw hats at a craft store (Joans or Michaels) and have the girls decorate those.

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms blogging program to be eligible to get a Fancy Nancy prize pack. For more information on how you can participate, click here.” (http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/share-your-tips-for-planning-a)

Fancy Nancy Poetry Party IdeasFancy Nancy Books

The TwitterMoms Reading Channelgreat free widgetsWidgetboxMore info

The Bad Queen

2010-04-20T21:08:00.002-05:00

Book: "The Bad Queen"
Author: Carolyn Meyer
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 5 out of 5 (love her hair!)
Read if: You are fascinated with historical stories or/and would like to learn more about Marie Antoinette.

In "The Bad Queen" you will travel outside of the comforts of the 21st century, and into the entirely different world that Marie Antoinette lived in the 18th century. The difference between this book and the many biographies on Marie Antoinette is that you are reading from the point of view of the Frenchwoman, Marie Antoinette. She has been given a bad name - hence the name of the "Bad Queen" - however, by reading this book, you see her story from a completely different point of view. You will begin to realize that Marie Antoinette really wasn't as bad as everyone made her out to be and though she may have made many bad mistakes, she was only human.

"The Bad Queen" was amazing. It sucked me in and kept me reading. I loved the history in it and how realistic it seemed, I could envision myself in the story. I loved hearing Marie Antoinette's side of everything and couldn't believe some of the things that she was put through. It also makes you realize how unfair people are, even today in these times. "The Bad Queen" was a wonderful book that I enjoyed greatly.

Also be sure to check out this post here on a Marie Antoinette inspired bedroom!

"The Clearing" by Heather Davis When Love is really Timeless...

2010-04-09T10:45:00.002-05:00

Book: "The Clearing"
Author: Heather Davis
Book Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 5 out of 5

Amy has faced a lot of struggles with her previous boyfriend, Matt, and now she is living away, safe, with her Aunt Mae. However, she is confused, and wants to be different than her previous self. She wants to be someone new. One of the first days at her Aunt Mae's house, while playing with her aunts dog, she notices a large foggy hazy area. She decides to explore some more and realizes that there is a boy at the other side of the clearing, Henry is his name. Soon she is falling head first with Henry and along the way, learns some unbelievable secrets that will change her life forever.

"The Clearing" was such a good read for me. I really enjoyed it. The plot was so unique and most of the characters were relatable to. Sometimes I did feel like I didn't "know" Amy very well, but I still wanted everything to work out ok for her and Henry. I really enjoyed "The Clearing" and found it was a book that kept me reading.

"Boys, Bears, and a serious pair of Hiking Boots" Perfect Summer Read!

2010-04-09T10:33:00.002-05:00

Book: "Boys, Bears, and a serious pair of Hiking Boots"
Author: Abby McDonald
Also author of: "Sophomore Switch"
My Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 4.5 out of 5
I think it is adorable and suits the book well!

Jenna is a huge activist that wants to make the world better and more eco friendly through the "Green Teen Teem" in her school. Her and her best friend Olivia make all kinds of Summer plans to help the world become more Green. However, she soon realizes that this won't be possible when her parents announce that her mom is going to get a job and live with her Grandma while her Dad is out of country with work. However, Olivia quickly comes up with a solution. Jenna is to go live with her aunt Susie in natural Canada for the Summer. Jenna quickly realizes that Cananda is a little more rustic and woodsy than she though - and the people there aren't as eco friendly as she would hope, but then she begins to make some friends, learn some secrets, and realize that theirs so much more than just trying to make the earth eco friendly through campaigns. Jenna grows a lot in so many ways during this summer, and becomes a better person because of it.

I really enjoyed "Boys, Bears, and a serious pair of Hiking Boots!" It was everything that a light summer read needs. An interesting storyline,romantic troubles,friend troubles, and learning more about yourself. I for sure would suggest this book! Makes for a nice beach read and kept me reading!

Revolve 2010 Review

2010-03-17T14:08:00.001-05:00

The thing about Revolve is that the interesting little tips, ideas, and quizzes, aren't really related to the bible - at least the magazine doesn't let the reader know how they are related. There is a lot of scripture in the magazine, and there are little boxes with tips on different things that girls are interested in, however, I wish that they would explain how they relate to what was being discussed in the bible chapter then. Revolve was an interesting magazine, and I did enjoy it though!

Heartbreak River

2010-03-11T22:20:00.002-06:00

I am in denial - I still haven't read "In a Heartbeat" ~ one of the books that I have been looking so forward to reading! I must purchase a copy using one of those Amazon gift cards I've been earning on Swagbucks - I'm up to $35! :)

Have you read it? What did you think?

The Loveliest for Writers...

2010-02-12T00:02:00.002-06:00

After coming across this lovely little pencil made out of wood and with a carved flower on top...

...I just new I had to share it with my lovely blog readers whom so many love to write!

Plus...I was surprised that it sells for only $5 at Antrhopologie! If you think about it, that's crazy cheap! Especially for Anthropologie!

"Love and War" Adult Guest Review

2010-02-10T16:37:00.001-06:00

Thank you to Lauri from Knits and Reads for this guest review! Be sure to check out her blog and say hi!

John and Stasi Eldredge write another great book, Wild at Heart was for men, Captivating for women, and now, Love & War for married couples. The authors write with openess and discuss their own marriage, true at heart this book is wonderful because they admit and talk openly about their marriage problems and what they have done to overcome them.

Marriage is not easy, we all know that, but John and Stasi help us learn how to look to God and be able to work through problems. Marriage is real there are going to be ups and downs adn this book will help you grow and work to make sure your marriage is strong, beautiful and full of deep joy. Sometimes we have to fight for what is good in life and Love & War teaches us how to do just that, this is a great book perfect for the upcoming Valentine weekend!

To purchase this book go to:

http://www.randomhouse.com/catalog/display.pperl?isbn=9780385529808

This was book was provided for review by WaterBrook Multnomah.

Great Barnes and Noble Coupons {Thought you would like to know!}

2010-02-09T23:27:00.003-06:00

Barnes in Noble is having a great sale right now, and there is also an extra 10% already reduced prices!! Don't you just love great deals?

Here is the link:

{Enjoy!}

Magic Under Glass {A Review}

2010-02-08T13:13:00.002-06:00

Book: Magic Under Glass
Author: Jaclyn Dolamore
Rating: 4 out of 5
Cover Rating: 4 out of 5

"Magic Under Glass" was a book that I was really looking forward to reading, and I had high expectations for it. I am so happy that my expectations were met! "Magic Under Glass" is about a girl who suddenly finds herself in an expensive palace hired to dance with an automaton. The reason that she was hired, was because all of the ladies that had been hired before were scared away. At first, the girl believes it was just silly nonsense. However, she begins to see that it is so much more than that, but rather than running away like the other girls, she stays and begins to uncover the secret of the automaton.

"Magic Under Glass" kept me reading and was so different than the average young adult book! It had the elements to make it a great read - a little bit of romance, a great plot, interesting twists, and a whole lot of mystery! At times it was a little bit creepy as well! This is a book that I really enjoyed.

Cover:

I love the cover of this book..it has a very historical feel to it and the colors are great! However, I do wish that they would have portrayed the girl on the cover as the same ethnic as the girl in the book. What do you think?

The BEST Bookshelf for Book Lovers!

2010-02-08T11:59:00.002-06:00

I'm sure my fellow book lovers can agree with me that we have soooooo many books, for me, my room is over flowing with them! I have books in almost every corner! I have even started using them as decoration!

This bookcase would be a simple solution to make a room more interesting, add a decor element to your room, and of course, store your books!

Love at first sight.

Purchase Here
Found via

Guest Post! Higher Hope

2010-01-26T21:00:00.001-06:00

Guest Review from Knits, Reads, and Reviews!

Enjoy!

Robert Whitlow's second book in the series is one that you can read and easily follow without having read the first book of the series. One may not think you can easily find humor in a religious based book, but Robert Whitlow succeeds in doing just that, this book is not in any way humorous, but yet leads one to chuckle from time to time. Tami Taylor has strong religious beliefs and does not let living in a big city keep her from following her beliefs. To some, Tami's strengths may be seen as weakness, but in the case of Ramona Dabney vs. Jason Paulding Tami is seen as one who can shed light on the beliefs of strongly if not strangely religious Ramona. Tami struggles with moving away from her family, caring for an elderly woman and facing the love of two charming men, but through it all she keeps her head on straight and in the end leaves you waiting excitedly for the next book to appear on the shelves of the corner bookstore!

I would recommend this book, but not for those who are 'squeamish' over religion or find religion somewhat of a difficult subject. This book is truly a Christian story written for those who believe. When I first began the book I was a bit unsure, but after reading a chapter or two I was entirely wrapped up in the lives of the characters. Can't wait to read the next in the series, and I will also go back and read the first book!

Need some Party Tips?

2010-01-15T09:12:00.000-06:00

Book: Prom and Party Etiquette
Author: Cindy Post Senning, ED.D., Peggy Post
Rating: 3 out of 5
Cover Rating: 3 out of 5
Release date: January 26th, 2010
Disclosure: I received this book to review, however, all opinions expressed are of my own.

Going to a holiday party? Prom? Homecoming? Or even just a small birthday party hosted by a friend? Then you will need to know some of the common party etiquette rules. Don't talk with your food wide open, don't announce how much money was in a gift that you were given, and be sure to wash your hands before you sit down to eat! These are just a few of the many tricks and tips that you should know and that you can find in "Prom and Party Etiquette."

While this seems like it could be a great book with someone who goes to a lot of parties or as a gift to someone who is starting to go to more and more parties, I didn't really have an interest in it. A lot of the facts seemed commonly known. There were however a few neat tricks, such as one on how to remember which bread plate is your so you don't by accident eat someones elses bread that's not yours! If you are looking for a book on party tips then this one is for you!

Lovestruck Summer Review

2010-01-09T13:07:00.004-06:00

Book: Lovestruck Summer
Rating: 3 out of 5
Cover Rating: 3 out of 5

Priscilla is ready for an exciting summer, away from home, down in Austin Texas. Yeehaw! She was planning on spending the summer working as an intern at Amalgam Records and hopefully finding an indie boy to date as a summer fling. However, much, much, more happens than she expects.

Priscilla doesn't expect to fall head over heels with a total cowboy. He is not her taste at all. Or so she thought. After dating a indie boy, she soon finds that she was missing what she really wanted all along, and judging people in ways that she shouldn't be....

"Lovestruck Summer" was a fun, fast read. I found it pretty predictable, but sometimes that's OK. I did get frustrated with Priscilla quite a bit, however, I just wanted to tell her that she is completely missing something! "Lovestruck Summer" was a cute and enjoyable read.

Guest Review! 40 Loaves, Breaking Bread with our Father Each Day

2009-12-20T13:44:00.001-06:00

Thanks to Ashley Boyer I was given the book:

40 Loaves, Breaking Bread with our Father Each Day

by C.D. Baker to review.

I really enjoy this book, it is not really a book that you would just sit down and read in its entirety, but rather a bit here and there. This book is a collection of readings and at the end of each reading/chapter is a daily prayer as well as food for thought. I like to pick up this book and read before I fall asleep each night, it is truly inspiring and thought provoking.

I recommend this book for inspirational reading. You can find it at: http://www.randomhouse.com/

Guest Blog by Lauri from Knits and Reads

Hauntingly Wonderful

2009-12-12T12:34:00.004-06:00

Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 5 out of 5
Author: Nancy Werlin
Book: Impossible
Disclosure: I rented this book from the library

"Impossible" by Nancy Werlin is a story of a 17 year old girl who has just learned of a secret, a secret that could mean the world to Lucy. A curse has been passed down from one 17 girl to another in Lucy's family line. Every girl somehow ends up pregnant at the age of 17 and will give birth at 18. After she gives birth to the baby girl, she will become mentally unstable and will end up like past generations. Lucy is no exception. However, there is hope. There is one way to break the curse and free Lucy's family line from the terrible curse. If she can figure out how to accomplish each of the 4 tasks in the song, "Scarborough fair" before she gives birth, she will be free. However, the tasks are not simple. Will Lucy have enough time and be able to free herself and her daughter?

Have you ever read a book and wanted to buy a hundred copies to give to everyone you know because you loved it so much? That is how I felt after reading "Impossible." It was beautifully haunting, it was romantic, and it was magical. It incorporated past legends and magic into the modern day life of an average teen girl. The other part that I loved about this book was that Nancy used a real life song - Scarborough Fair - in her book as basically, the theme. Lucy was pregnant without fault of her own because of the curse that forced it to happen. Throughout the story I found myself wanting Lucy to succeed in the tasks and wanting her to not give up. This is a great book and I encourage you to read it!

Listen to the song that the story was based off of:

Review: Front And Center

2009-12-09T18:54:00.004-06:00

Book: Front and Center
Author: Catherine Gilbert Murdock
Rating: 5 out of 5
3rd in series of Dairy Queen and The Off Season
Thank you to Houghton Mifflin for sending me a copy of this book

D.J. is back with another great story to be told! This time she is struggling to decide which college she should go to, a big league school or smaller one? If she does decide to go to a bigger school, will she be able to handle the stress and competition? Of course, on top of all of that she has Brian who she has mixed up feelings for, should she give him another chance, or let him go?

I love this entire series! They are adorable! D.J. is a very relatable character and you are able to see why she is struggling for the reasons that she is. This book actually got me laughing out loud a few times! Catherine's writing style is believable and I could see a normal teenager facing what D.J. faces in the book and reacting the same way. Overall, this is a really great book and I suggest reading it if you have already read the first two in the series!

New Look Same Blog!!!

2009-11-11T18:28:00.002-06:00

Do you like the new look? I felt like this blog needed a new do, to liven it up a bit :) Let me know what you think!

Images are courtesy of The Cherry Blossom Girl!

Review: Jane In Bloom

2009-11-11T12:20:00.002-06:00

Book: Jane In Bloom
Author: Deborah Lytton
Pages: 182
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 4 out of 5
Disclosure: I won this book from a contest on In Bed With Books blog

Review:

Jane and her sister have always been close, telling each other all of their secrets. However, Janes sister has been acting strange lately, refusing to eat and acting secretly and somewhat depressed like. However, Jane never expected Lizzie to not be with her on earth, living in the bedroom next to her own and sharing the same bathroom together, but it happens and Jane finds herself having to learn how to cope with the results and her feelings, and through the midst of it all, she finds out that she has a talent for photography.

This was a sweet but sad novel that makes you want to keep reading, in fact, I finished "Jane in Bloom" in one day. The reason that I rated it a 3.5 is because I felt as if there was something missing and like the plot should have had something more to it. Even so, I did enjoy "Jane in Bloom" and am looking forward to Deborah's upcoming novels.

Win "I Can't Keep My Own Secrets!!" Twitter Contest!

2009-11-09T13:26:00.001-06:00

Win A Copy of "I Can't Keep My Own Secrets"

It has been a long time since I hosted a contest to win a book....

....And since today is such a beautiful Fall day.......

....Lets Celebrate!!

This contest is going to be a bit different than all of my other ones! It is going to be a Twitter contest.

How to enter:

Simply follow me on Twitter @polopony95 and tweet this message:

RT: Be entered to win a copy of "I Can't Keep My Own Secrets" by following @polopony95 and tweeting! http://bit.ly/4goNmJ

You get 1 enter every time you tweet this message out. You will NOT be entered unless you tweet and follow!

Note: This is an ARC

This contest will end on November 15th!

Good luck :) This is a GREAT book!

Book Page Wreath - Make it yourself!

2009-11-03T23:14:00.005-06:00

Over on Lindsay's blog she has posted this neat wreath that she created, out of pages from books! How unique is that?

Wouldn't this make a lovely Christmas gift to a book lover...plus it would be from the heart since its handmade! Lindsay posted her tutorial here!

If you decide to make this, please show me some pictures! I would love to see how yours turn out! This project is going to go on my list of things to do!

*1'st Edit*

I just saw this adorable wreath that Lindsay also made! Tutorial is on her blog for this one as well! This wreath would be perfect for a bird lover or as a Spring decoration! Its never to early to start making decorations :)

*2nd Edit*

Sorry guys, but I just found ANOTHER gorgeous wreath that Lyndsay has made. I hope I'm not boring you yet, but aren't these wreaths just beautiful? This one is another egg wreath, I like it better than the other egg wreath, what do you think? I think it is beautiful! Tutorial here!

*3rd Edit*

So sorry, but I just had to include this one last one!!! What can I say? Lindsey's wreaths are gorgeous! I would love to make this one for our front door! Its perfect for fall! See more pictures here!

Dark Guarding Novels Mini Reviews

2009-10-14T13:45:00.002-05:00

Mini Review for the Dark Guardian Series by Rachel Hawthorne

"Moonlight" by Rachel Hawthorne
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Kayla has just recently found out about what she really is. She is now dealing with overwhelming feelings with quiet, dangerous, Lucas who acts more like a older brother to her, or maybe he's just buffering his wild emotions for her. Romance isn't the only exciting happening in "Moonlight," the first novel of the "Darklight" series, though. Humans have discovered the shape shifters and they all risk a frightening ending if much more information about them is spread.

"Dark Guardian" by Rachel Hawthorne
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Lindsey's mate had been chosen for her years ago...ever since she was a little girl everyone new that her mate was going to be Connor. They had it all planned out, however, they left out one thing...Lindsey's decision. Lindsey had always thought she loved Connor, she does love Connor, however, once she starts to feel attraction to Rafe things begin to change and she feels as if she may not have known what "real" love really felt like.....

"Dark of the Moon" by Rachel Hawthorne
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Brittany has been looking forward to the night of her change for a long time, however, she people begin to be worried for her own safety as she still has not found a mate to be with her the night of the change. It is said that every young women that has went through the change alone - has died. That's not all however. People begin to see other things that are different about Brittany than the other wolves. For one thing, she has to work to be fit. Could she be different than everyone else?

My thoughts on the Dark Guardian Novels

I enjoyed this series so much! They are somewhat short, but they have just enough mystery and romance to make for a great read. Once I started reading them, I was pulled in and was excited to continue reading on. I was disappointed at first when I started reading the second book, "Full Moon" and found out that the book wasn't about Kayla, but rather Lindsey, however, still enjoyed it and wasn't to disappointed in the end! I really enjoyed this series and can't wait for the next one coming out!

Wouldn't this make a great holiday gift? Especially if you pledged to give books for the holiday's!

The Latest Scandal....well, according to us bloggers maybe

2009-10-05T20:31:00.002-05:00

Twitter has been filled with talk this afternoon all about the new FTC regulation that is supposed to begin to take place starting December 1st.

In a rush of confusion, questions, and other ramblings, all of us has come to a agreement that this is definitely not something we are looking forward to.

According to the FTC, we need to disclose every review we post with where we got the book - for example, if we receive an ARC in the mail from say Harperteen, we need to write somewhere in the post a disclosure on it. Unless of course we either want to send the book back to the publisher after reviewing it or getting charged an $11,000 fee.

Does this also mean that we must include disclosure on swag that we have received for free? And it looks like we can't be doing IMM posts anymore. I think I shall do two a week until December 1st (lol)! And what about all of the Goodread users who write reviews?

One things for sure, there's going to be some changes in the blogsophere to come.

The question is...why are they doing this?

Check out this interesting post on this

89 out of 1,000 newborn babies die in Malawi

2009-09-30T20:38:00.001-05:00

Did you know that Malawi is one of the least developed countries in the world? How about the fact that 89 in ever 1,000 babies born die? Or that the average life span is 44 years? Malawi is a small country that is slightly smaller than Virgina.

Hearing those facts, doesn't it just make you want to help them out?

Imagine, 89 babies out of 1,000 die, isn't that horrible? How can we help the mothers and babies?

A while back my friends and I started a organization called "Hats of Love" where we knit baby hats for newborn babies. I would love to move further and put together care sets for new mothers in Malawi, however, as teens in 4-H, we don't have the funds to be able to do this all on our own. That is were you can come in.

In each kit we will include:

-A hand knit baby hat
-A Receiving Blanket
-2 Washcloths
-S.C. Johnsons Baby Shampoo
-1 Onesie

The total cost per a kit will be $10 + the cost of shipping which brings it up to around $15

We would love to accept any donations of yarn, baby hats, baby blankets, new washcloths, new baby shampoo, new onesies, or money to pay for the supplies and postage.

If you are interested in donating, please send me an email at: countrystars95@yahoo.com

We are excited to help make babies lives in Malawi healthier! Thanks for helping out!

Review: And Then Everything Unraveled

2009-09-12T19:52:00.002-05:00

Book: And Then Everything Unraveled
Author: Jennifer Sturman
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 3.7 out of 5

Delia lives in an area were everyone's a genius....the parents have online businesses of some sort of an other, and most of the kids do as well. And it is practically rare to see someone that isn't driving a hybrid. And super organized Delia's mom, is one of them. So, when her mom goes on a boat to Antarctica for research and the entire boat mysteriously disappears and everyone believes that she is dead, Delia knows that this is not the case. So she starts researching herself to try to solve the mystery. However, she soon finds out that someone is out to get her, the question is, who?

I loved this book! I found it very entertaining and well written. This book funny even though it is covering a serious topic - finding ones missing Mom in Antarctica when everyone believes shes dead. The book just seemed to have the right mixture of ingredients to make it a great read! I'm looking forward to reading more from Jennifer!

YIKES!!

2009-08-31T10:18:00.003-05:00

Argh!

I feel so out of the loop! I haven't been blogging on this blog for a while now and haven't been able to keep up with all of the upcoming book releases! I've been so busy with 4-H and setting up my other blog! Crazy! Plus, I have been working on orders that I've received for Header Requests, which reminds me I have 2 more to make today plus a new one that I want to make for this blog! So, I haven't been able to update much, but that shall change soon!!! I will be posting more reviews again, don't worry!!

Ohhh, also, how do you like my new signature? Please remind me to remember to put it at the end of all of my new posts! lol! And, you might have noticed I changed my profile pic! lol!

I did just right a new review, which you can find below this post!

Thanks for sticking by!!

Review: I Can't Keep My Own Secrets

2009-08-31T10:07:00.003-05:00

Book: I Can't Keep My Own Secrets
Author: Teen authors of 800 6 word memoirs.
Pages: 182
Rating: 4 out of 5
Cover Rating: 3 out of 5

"Told You I'd Be Published Someday" (Kat A.) is the first 6 worded memoir out of 800 in the book "I Can't Keep My Own Secrets." This book is made up of hundreds of six words that describes the lives of 800 teens across the country. They range from being funny such as: "Never shopping at West Seal again" or sad, "Roots are Shallow, Wings Are Broken," and thoughtful, "I'm still figuring out my story" among others.

I really enjoyed reading this book, it made me realize how much worse thousands of other kids lives are then just a single bad day in my life. The memoirs may have only been 6 words, however, the teens that wrote the 6 words did a wonderful job at describing something that means everything to them. That is talent. This was a quick book to read, but is a keeper!

Win a book!

2009-08-23T21:52:00.001-05:00

Coming 12/22/09 from Bloomsbury...

Nimira is a music-hall girl used to dancing for pennies. So when wealthy sorcerer Hollin Parry hires her to sing accompaniment to a mysterious piano-playing automaton, Nimira believes it will be the start of a better life. In Parry's world, long-buried secrets are about to stir. Unsettling rumors begin to swirl about ghosts, a madwoman roaming the halls, and Parry’s involvement in a group of corrupt sorcerers for whom the rules of the living and dead are meant to be broken for greater power. When Nimira discovers the spirit of a dashing fairy gentleman is trapped within the automaton, she is determined to break the curse. But even as the two fall into a love that seems hopeless, breaking the curse becomes a perilous race against time. Because it's not just the future of these star-crossed lovers that's at stake, but the fate of the entire magical world.

Want to win an ARC with original sketches from the author inside? See http://fabulousfrock.livejournal.com for details!

Win a $40 dress!

2009-08-21T22:31:00.003-05:00

Hi!

I just started up a giveaway (courtesy of the fabulous Shabby Apple) and would love for you to check it out and enter! The dress is adorable and is great quality. I think that you will really like it, and if you don't I'm sure you know someone who would!

This dress is valued at $40!

Check out the giveaway here!

Remodeled - and better than ever!

2009-08-15T16:01:00.004-05:00

Some of you might remember a while back when I posted about me making headers. Well, I have remodeled the blog that I had made for them. Now, I have info on me making you a header, I have free headers that you can use, plus I have examples of custom headers that I have made for others! So stop by and take a look! While your at it, please follow so you can see all of my upcoming creations!

Here is the link!

Thank you very much!

Review: "After" by Amy Efaw

2009-08-12T13:19:00.002-05:00

Book: "After"
Author: Amy Efaw
Pages: 350
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 5 out of 5

"An infant left in the trash to die. A teenage mother who never knew she was pregnant . . .

Before That Morning, these were the words most often used to describe straight-A student and star soccer player Devon Davenport: responsible, hardworking, mature. But all that changes when the police find Devon home sick from school as they investigate the case of an abandoned baby. Soon the connection is made—Devon has just given birth; the baby in the trash is hers. After That Morning, there’s only one way to define Devon: attempted murderer.

And yet gifted author Amy Efaw does the impossible— she turns Devon into an empathetic character, a girl who was in such deep denial that she refused to believe she was pregnant. Through airtight writing and fast-paced, gripping storytelling, Ms. Efaw takes the reader on Devon’s unforgettable journey toward clarity, acceptance, and redemption. "
Amazon Product Description

"After" by Amy Efaw was heartbreaking. As I read Devon's story, after her life as a great soccer player full of dreams and inspiration, I felt so many different emotions. Sadness, grief, happiness that the baby survived and was found, anger, among others. Amy did such a wonderful job creating her characters and by making the story believable. You can tell that Amy Efaw did her reasearch on this subject and figured out what kind of girl would do this. Sometimes Devon was frustrating but yet, even though she did such a horrid, horrid, thing, by reading the story you can see why she did what she did and who she really is, making it almost impossible to like her character. This was a very sad book, however, I think that it is one that every teen girl should read.

Certain Strain Of Peculiar Winner!

2009-08-12T12:21:00.002-05:00

Congrats to SarahChristine, you won a copy of "A Certain Strain of Peculiar!" I will be emailing you shortly!

In my contest, everyone had to mention one thing thats peculiar about them. Here is what Sarah said:

"hmm something peculiar...well my feet are different sizes,one is a 8 1/2 and the other is a 7."

Again, congrats!

If Sarah does not respond within 48 hours, I will choose a new winner

Congratulations to.....

2009-08-12T11:56:00.002-05:00

Do you guys remember this giveaway? Well, I have finally chosen the winner!!

The winner of the "Clique Summer Collection" giveaway goes to..........

Dylan from the movie

Caylee!!! Congratulations Caylee! I have emailed you asking for your address so the books can get sent out to you!

Some notes:

-I will be posting the winners of the "20 Boy Summer" contest soon as well
-I am going to post the winner of the "Certain Strain Of Peculiar" contest today!
-I am sooo sorry for not posting the winners sooner!
-Keep watching for the next fabulous giveaway!!

Hey, Friendly Fellas!

2009-08-12T11:13:00.003-05:00

I found this image on photobucket.com the other day and like it so much! So I felt like using it! lol!

So, I just thought that I should make a post with a few updates. I'm so sorry that I haven't been on and updating as much as usual, I've been so busy with my brothers birthday, shooting sports (archery), among other things! And now, not next week but the two after that, I will be working for my Grandma in her daycare and I'm not sure if my laptop will have connection there! So, I will try to schedule some posts, which I have never done before, but we shall see! :)

I have a new review up on my other blog for this adorable dress which I am wearing right now as I type this! You should for sure check it out!

Thank you to my brother for showing me that you can make blue links using blogger!! Yay!! That makes things so much easier!

Also, I will most likely be posting a few GREAT giveaways on the blog mentioned above, so you should for sure follow so you are in the know!

Right now, I am reading "Secret Society" which I am only on page 8 so far! Last night I finished "Love, Lies, And Texas Dips" by Susan McBride, which you can expect a review for soon!

Ohhh, and yesterday I went to Borders and was walking along and glanced two teen books in the sale shelf!!! I quick walked back and it was a "Gossip Girl" book and a "Clique" book! And the best part was that they were only 3.99! So, I bought them of course. However, later that day when I pulled the books out of the bag, guess what I noticed?? A Walmart price tag on both of them! LoL! What is Borders doing selling Walmart books?

Does anyone have any suggestions for what I should read next?

Look forward to a review of "Prada and Prejudice" coming up next!!

Review: Ghost Huntress, The Guidance

2009-08-06T21:38:00.002-05:00

Book: Ghost Huntress: The Guidance
Author: Marley Gibson
Pages: 309
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 4 out of 5
I really loved the first cover in the series

Kendall is back again and things are heating up in her ghost hunting world! Kendall has to juggle ghosthunting, her boyfriend, school, her own friends, and, well, her mom. She has been helping out a bunch of people get rid of their ghosts but it seems like she hasn't been sparing any boyfriend time. Her boyfriend starts getting annoyed with her because it seems like they can never just be a lone without something ghosty happening. Thats not her only problem. Popular enemy, Courtney, is jealous of Kendall because Kendall is gaining popularity. So, Courtney decideds to trump her and pretend that she is physic as well. However, things go terribly wrong and Kendall can only hope that things will go back to normal, will Kendall and Courtney settle on a slight friendship, or will it be to late?

"Ghost Huntress: The Guidance" was so...interesting! This series is so different from any other book that I have read. Sometimes it seemed like Kendall was a bit to whiny and at times it felt like the writing seemed like Marley was trying a tadge bit to hard to suit teen girls tastes, however, in all this book was a fun, but strange at times, book to read. And hey, strange is always good! It gives you a whole new perspective on things!

Review: Me My Elf and I

2009-08-05T21:53:00.002-05:00

Book: Me, My Elf, and I
Author: Heather Swain
Pages: 279
Bought, Received, or Rented: Rented from the library! I was very excited when I saw it there!
Rating: 4 out of 5
Cover Rating: 3.8 out of 5
I don't like that half of the face is on the cover, and then it is finished on the spine and back cover, I wish that just the half of the face was on the cover but something different on the spine and back.

Who knew that elves weren't short, but they are really model tall? Well, in Alverland, the community of elves, they are for sure not what "elders" would expect! Everyone is always happy, perky, and nice to each other. Everyone loves each other and life is less complicated socially than with regular humans. 15 year old Zephyr is happy about who she is, however, she wants to be able to perform and Alverland just doesn't have what she desires. So, Zephyr convinces her parents that she is ready to go to real school when they move to Brooklyn, New York. Zephyr soon finds out how different being an elf is compared to what everyone else is like. And she is so confused! What are all those abbreviations that everyone uses? LoL, JK, etc...., how will she be able to do it? Soon though, Zephyr makes two great friends and is on the fast tracks to popularity, until she makes a mistake that could ruin everything....

Heather Swain really put together a story that gives a whole new idea on who elves are. Its true, we always expect elves to be short and wear little pointy caps that have jingles on the tops, but why? Why are they short? What do they do when its not Christmas time? Heather switched up the classic views of elf's and made them very original in her story! "Me My Elf and I" was really cute and had some good lessons in it. I do wish that a few of the characters were a bit more developed though. Overall, "Me, My Elf, and I" was a cute, light read! Enjoy!

Review: Prophecy of the Sisters

2009-08-02T18:21:00.002-05:00

Book: Prophecy of the Sisters
Author: Michelle Zink
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 5 out of 5
The cover is so different from most YA books! Its unique and I love it!

Twin sisters, Alice and Lia, are cursed by an ancient prophecy that has been past down from generation to generation. However, they are divided, one is good, the other is evil, they both want something different and throughout the story struggle to get what they want. The two sisters that were together forever, even in their own mothers womb, will be split into two separate ways and only one of the sisters will accomplish what they are planning, the question is, will it be for the good or the evil?

Michelle Zink put together a fabulous debut novel. The story is so captivating and keeps your reading. It is full of mystery, sadness, hurt, and love. I'm not sure how to explain how great this book is, it just is truly fabulous! At times it was creepy, but that just added to the story! If you haven't already read it, I encourage you to buy it from Amazon A.S.A.P!

Prophecy of the sisters release date was yesterday, August 1st! Make sure to congratulate Michelle!

Updates!!

2009-07-27T21:28:00.003-05:00

Hello strangers!

So, you may have noticed that I haven't been around this week! I have been at the county fair all week that is why! I showed my horse, Bailee, and therefore my Mom and I slept at the fair. I am so proud of my horse, she did so good! I will have to share some pictures a little later!

So, we just got home last night and I am still tired! The days were full of nonstop showing, and I didn't get to bed until around 10:30-11:00 every night and got up at like 6:00! It was tiring, but fun!!!!

So, I will be posting lots of reviews this week for you! Also, please be sure to check out my new blog: http://teenfashiondesign.blogspot.com/ which I just designed a new header for today! I think that a lot of you will really enjoy reading it.

So, I have a question for you!! Which books would you like me to review first? Please comment and I will ge to it!

-Sea Change by Aimee Friedman
-The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong
-Touch by Francine Prose
-Nothing But Ghosts by Beth Kephart
-Let It Snow by Various awesome authors!
-Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

New blog!!!

2009-07-22T13:00:00.001-05:00

Hello!!

I just wanted to make a post saying that I have started up a new blog that is aimed at tween and teen girls! I will be posting lots of reviews on products that are an interest to tween/teen girls. Please stop by for a visit, and follow! Thanks :)

http://teenfashiondesign.blogspot.com/

Also, I will be gone between Wednesday-Sunday because I will be sleeping at the county fair! We have to stay there because I'm bringing my horse, hopefully we will do good in some of the classes!

Thanks!

Please??

2009-07-15T13:03:00.003-05:00

Hello!

I decided to enter this contest....and would really really really appreciate it if you could vote for my picture!! Thanks so much :) If I happen to win....I will throw a big contest!!

You can vote using this:

My Favorite Photo (I've Ever Taken)
Brickfish

Or you can go here!
http://www.brickfish.com/Pages/PhotosAlbums/PhotoView.aspx?picid=952782_86653942&=PPIMEMAIL&isep=1&pbapi=2665229&pbvi=95633404

Thanks again!

"Lipstick Apology" book Trailer

2009-07-11T19:12:00.002-05:00

I'm really excited to read this one, it looks neat! What do you think?

I think the covers cute as well!

Don't forget to enter this contest!!
http://booksforteensreviews.blogspot.com/2009/07/win-copy-of-certain-strain-of-peculiar.html

Win a copy of "A Certain Strain of Peculiar!"

2009-07-07T16:24:00.004-05:00

Win A Copy of "A Certain Strain of Peculiar" by Gigi Amateau!

Description from Amazon

"This is the last time Mary Harold will have a panic attack at school when kids call her "the grossest girl." If Mom won’t move back to Alabama, her thirteen-year-old daughter will just have to drive herself 691 miles to Grandma Ayma’s farmhouse — and a whole new life. With Ayma’s loving support, Mary Harold is soon strong enough to help Bud, the Cherokee farm manager, wrangle the cows, and confident enough to stand up for his daughter, Dixie, a girl with a strain of peculiar that makes her whinny and stamp like a horse to keep the world at bay. Mary Harold still misses her mom, but has started to have dreams of the Black Warrior Forest that are offering clues. As she listens to their message, and to her own heart, she discovers how powerful and surprising the bonds of family can be. "

Visit Gigi at: http://www.gigiamateau.com/

How to enter:

Mandatory: What is peculiar in your life?

Please include a way for me to contact you!!

+3: Begin to follow me!
+4: For everyone that already follows!
+2: Post a link in your sidebar
+3: Make a post on your blog about this contest
+1: Tweet @PoloPony95 about this contest

Keep watching for more ways to enter!!

This contest is only open to residents of the U.S.!

Contest will run until July 31st!

Goodluck!!

Review: "Love Aubrey"

2009-07-06T13:46:00.002-05:00

Book: "Love, Aubrey"
Author Suzanne LaFleur
Pages: 262
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 5 out of 5

11 year old Aubrey is living home a lone and has been for the past week. Ever since the morning when her mother just up and left, without even as much as a goodbye. Her Mother may have been heartbroken over the tragic loss that they had just gone through, but so is Aubrey. Aubrey is managing well and is actually, at first anyways, having fun watching TV all day and going to bed when she wants. However, soon her grandmother comes and finds that she's been living by herself and takes her back to her house. Aubrey has to learn how to cope with the loss that would tear anyone's hearts apart, young or old, and along the way she has to make and keep friends, regain a relationship with her mother if she can, and do good in school. Will Aubrey be able to do it? Or will she just give up?

"Love Aubrey" by Suzanne LaFleur is a truly delightful book. All of the characters are very well developed and it is easy to get attached to Aubrey. "Love Aubrey" is a middle grade book, however, it can be enjoyed by any and all ages. Suzanne LaFleur has mastered writing in the middle grade voice and her writing is so realistic! I look forward to reading more of Suzanne's upcoming books and suggest you to read "Love, Aubrey" right away!

Review: Eyes Like Stars

2009-07-05T12:13:00.002-05:00

Book: Eyes Like Stars
Author: Lisa Mantchev
Pages: 356
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 5 out of 5
To Be Released: July 7th

Bertie isn't a fairy, but she lives in a world full of them. Bertie isn't an actor, but she lives in a theater. Bertie is different than everyone else, but yet she has lived contentedly for years in the theater (if not always causing some sort of trouble...), that is, until now. Her whole world is about to come apart because of a single book that is holding the whole theater together, however, the book becomes unbound because of one boy, Ariel, who longs to be free of the theater and feels that the other faeries should as well. Now, it is Bertie's mission to bring the theater back together and save the faerie community that she has grown to love. The question is, will she be able to do it in time?

Lisa Mantchev has truly put together a magnificent debut novel. It is beautifully written and the characters are so delightful to read about! The faeries are portrayed as quirky, naughty, fun, but yet intelligent. Plus, they looooooove sweets! The plot line and characters are very well developed and it is just a very interesting and unique story! I for sure suggest you to go out and buy a copy of this book! Congrat's Lisa on an amazing debut novel!

Review: "Flirting With Boys" by Hailey Abbott

2009-07-05T10:48:00.002-05:00

Book: "Flirting With Boys"
Author: Hailey Abbott
Pages: 240
Rating: 4 out of 5
Cover Rating: 4 out of 5

Celeste is not looking forward to her summer vacation. She has to spend it working at her families resort and just wishing that her boyfriend Travis was there with her. However, her summer starts looking up when Travis and a few of his other buddies pull a stunt that gets them into trouble. As punishment for what Travis did, he has to work the summer away - which means saying goodbye to surfing in the ocean and hello to long days. However, Celeste comes up with the perfect plan and convinces her Dad to hire Travis so Celeste and him can be together for the whole summer! Now thats the kind of summer that Celeste can get excited about! However, why does Travis seem as if he dosen't want to spend the summer with her? And why does he keep messing the job up? And what about Celeste's growing feelings for one of the resorts clients? One things for sure - this is going to be a summer to remember!

"Flirting With Boys" was a really enjoyable book! It was a fun beachy read. However, I did at times get a little annoyed with how Celeste wouldn't realize how much better she can do than Travis. He was so stuck on himself at times! Overall, this was a fun book to read and perfect for a warm summer day. I looke forward to reading more of Hailey Abbots books!

The Everything Jane Austen Challenge!

2009-06-30T21:50:00.002-05:00

I have decided to join in on the fun and participate in the Jane Austen challenge! For this challenge, all you need to do is choose six things that relate to Jane Austen and complete them!

Here is my list:

1. Read "Pride and Prejudice"
2. Watch "Pride and Prejudice"
3. Read "Emma"
4. Watch "Emma"
5. Watch "Lost In Austen"
6. Watch "Sense and Sensibility"

If you would like to join in, you can find the info here!
http://thewrittenword.wordpress.com/2009/06/22/introducing-the-everything-austen-challenge-with-prizes/

20 Things In 20 Days: Bonus Clue #19

2009-06-29T12:01:00.002-05:00

To celebrate the launch of Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler, I'm blogging a bonus clue for the 20 Things in 20 Days Scavenger Hunt. Answer clues and challenges to earn points toward the 20 Things grand prize, including 6 signed books from 2009 debut authors! Get a clue... June 11th-30th at http://sarahockler.com/2009/06/10/20-things-in-20-days-scavenger-hunt

Today's Bonus Clue:

Sarah Ockler loves to eat outside in the summer, but as a vegetarian who hates watermelon, she doesn't have much luck at summer picnics and barbecues! For a 20 Things bonus clue, post your favorite veg-friendly, non-melon summer recipe in the comments. 3 points. 2 extra points if Sarah tries and likes your recipe!

To find the main clue for today, visit Jess at Book Reviews By Jess! http://bookreviewsbyjess.blogspot.com/2009/06/20-things-in-20-days-clue-19.html

Goodluck!

Review: The Clique Summer Collection - Massie

2009-06-28T17:06:00.002-05:00

Book: Massie
Series: The Clique Summer Collection
Book Number: 1
Page Number: 123
Author: Lisi Harrison
Rating: 3 out of 5
Cover Rating: 3.5 out of 5

The "Clique" girls are back in the Summer "Clique" series! Each book features a different girl and in this one it features Massie. After Massie gets kicked out of the prestige riding stable after a stunt she played to get one of the girls to stay in their saddles, she is back to her parents house for the summer. *sigh*, and her besties aren't there with her! And yikes!! Her closet at home is so outdated! Massie goes to use her credit card to purchase some new outfits and what do you know, the card is cancelled! Massie's parents decide as punishment to the stunt she played that got ther kicked out of the school, she has to get a job and pay them back for the fee's of the school. Massie' summer dreams all fade away as she starts her search for the perfect summer job that would be more like a jobby (job+hobby). She's having no such luck....until she see's a certain add in a Vogue magazine which is to sell makeup products to people. Massie starts her job and is loving it, however, she goes a little overboard with the ways she convinces people. Will Massie Summer turn out to be ok after all? Or will it all come tumbling down even more?

I was pretty disappointed with this book actually. Massie was so spoiled and didn't care about anyones feelings except her own, so selfish! Another thing that bugged me was the horseback riding parts. It was so unrealistic! Overall, I did not espcially like this book, however, if you would like to try it, it would make a light easy beach read!

New Bookmarks! Yay!

2009-06-25T20:31:00.005-05:00

New Bookmarks

So sorry this one is the wrong direction, for some reason Blogger switched it!

This one actually comes in a set, however I didn't take pictures of the whole set. Email me if you would like to see them!

Front...

And Back....

Today I spent quite a bit of time crafting a few more bookmarks and I think they turned out pretty nice!! Let me know what you think!

If you would like to purchase any or all of them, please email me!!! They are reasonably priced!

Thanks for looking!

Review: Paradise Lost

2009-06-22T12:25:00.004-05:00

Book: Paradise Lost
Author: Kate Brian
Series number: 9
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 4.5 out of 5
This is one of my favorite covers in this series! I love the dresses and the background. However, the girl in the green looks so terribly snotty, doesn't she?

Reed now knows who the culprit of Cheyenne's murder was and Noelle has befriended her again. Now, she is off to a carefree vacation with Noelle and a few other Billing's girls to the Caribbean - or...maybe not so carefree. Trouble always seems to find Reed and someone seems to be stalking her again, unless the handlebars on the just checked over jet ski locking up was a coincidence, I think not! Will Reed's stalker accomplish her mission? Or will Reed end up safe like usual?

"Paradise Lost" was terrific! I loved reading this book! Just when you think that Reeds life is looking up, something new happens to change that all around. This book is very entertaining, and even has a bit of romance in it as Reed starts falling for Uptom and he seems to be falling for her. The end of "Paradise Lost" left me really really really wanting to read the next book in the series, and to bad that one dosen't come out for another few months! Very disapointing! Kate Brian's "Private" series are so exciting and this one was no exception!

Review: "Flirting With Boys"

2009-06-22T09:47:00.003-05:00

Books: Flirting With Boys
Author: Hailey Abbot
Pages: 240
Rating: 4 out of 5
Cover Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Celeste Tippan is bummed that her boyfriend Travis isn't going to be around while she's stuck working at her family owned resort. Soon that changes though after Travis and his friends get into trouble and he is stuck with a job at the resort with her! Yay for Celeste! However, Celeste starts to wonder why Travis isn't so excited. Does he not want to spend time with her? Throughout "Flirting With Boys" Celeste starts seeing the not so good side of Travis and starts to see the good in Nick, one of the resorts clients. Will Celeste be able to decide who she should be with?

"Flirting With Boys" is a cute, light, and summery read which would be perfect beach read! I really enjoyed this book. However, at times it felt that Celeste should really start seeing who Travs is and that she could do so much better, so that got a little annoying at times! Overall, "Flirting with Boys" is a nice read for the hot months of Summer!

Review: Its not you, Its Me

2009-06-10T21:16:00.004-05:00

Book: "Its Not You, It's Me"
Author: Kerry Cohen Hoffmann
Pages: 176
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Zoe has had her dream boyfriend for six months now. Six whole months! She is in love. So what if she she stopped helping with the big school artistic newsletter that she had started. So what if she stopped spending as much time doing the things that she used to love. He's worth it - isn't he? Zoe is devastated. Her 6 month long term relationship boyfriend has broken up with her. Why? It must have been a mistake! Zoe is determined to get him back, no matter what it takes. Gushy poems snuck into his locker, dressing up, or even kissing another boy, just to make him realize that him breaking up with Zoe was a mistake. However, will it work?

This was for sure not the greatest book that I have read. I felt that the characters were not developed as well as they should have been. Zoe wasn't really written in a way that I could feel for her. Overall, I didn't especially enjoy this book, however you might love it! I just like it when you are able to relate and bond with the characters so that if something disappointing happens in the characters lives you can really feel for them! However, "Its Not You, It's Me," could make a nice book for someone who has just broken up with her boyfriend.

Waiting on Wednesday: All Unquiet Things

2009-06-10T10:07:00.000-05:00

Book: "All Unquiet Things"
Author: Anna Jarzab
Release Date: January 10, 2010

"All Unquiet Things centers around the murder of teen heiress Carly Ribelli, who was found shot to death a mile from her house in a wealthy Northern California suburb. Carly’s uncle, a dissolute alcoholic, was convicted of the crime, but a year later his daughter still doesn’t believe her father is guilty. Determined to prove his innocence, Audrey Ribelli contacts Carly’s ex-boyfriend, Neily Monroe, the boy who found Carly’s body. She is convinced that he knows more than he thinks about the events that led up to Carly’s death. Despite Neily’s initial reluctance, he and Audrey begin their investigation at the posh private school they attend, identifying prime suspects from among their spoiled classmates and digging up secrets about Carly’s past to get to the truth behind her murder."

Thoughts: Oh my!! This looks fabulous!!! I am so excited to read this one! Doesn't it just look awesome? I am really looking forward to it!

Visit Anna here: www.annajarzab.com

30 Days To Finding and Keeping Sassy Sidekicks and BFF's

2009-06-09T10:52:00.002-05:00

Book: "30 Days to Finding and Keeping Sassy Sidekicks and BFF's"
Author: Clea Hantman
Also author of: "30 Days to getting over the Dork you used to call your Boyfriend"
Rating: 4 out of 5
Cover Rating: 4.5 out of 5

"Friendships are like bras,
Providing support and strength,
Uplifting the girls"
Pg. 28

Looking for friends and don't know where to start? Feeling like you want to make your already started friendship even better? Or maybe your just trying to figure out ways to develop your already good friendship into something that will last a lifetime! If so, "30 Days to Finding and Keeping Sassy Sidekicks and BFF's" by Clea Hantman is the book for you! Clea Hantman put together a great collection of advice, tips and activities to help you have great friendships!

I really liked this book! Clea Hantman is a terrific young adult writer. One of my favorite aspects of the book was her writing style. Her style wasn't cheesy or like she was trying to hard to sound cool to a teen, her writing style was just natural, fun and relatable! She also offered some great advice! I am a teen and I liked a lot of the activities such as activity 15 were you took something that you normally do and spice it up, however, I did think that a few of the activities were maybe closer to tween than teen. Overall, Clea put together a great friendship book that I hope gets a lot of readers!

Finished the 48 Hour Reading Challenge!

2009-06-07T22:46:00.002-05:00

Wooohoo! I just finished the 48 hour reading challenge!

It worked out perfectly because yesterday and today were such rainy/gloomy days - perfect for cuddling up with a good book!!

I started the challenge on Friday night at 10:45 P.M.

I finished 3 books and read but did not finish in others.

Books I finished:
-Prophecy of the Sisters
-20 Boy Summer
-30 Days to Keeping and Finding Sassy Sidekicks and BFF'S

I also read a bunch in "Private: Revelation" and a few pages in "It's Not Me, Its You!"

So, overall, I read about 13 hours and 30 minutes! I might mention that I went to the Sarah Quigley book signing event which also took away quite a bit of the reading time, but it was muchos fun, so I don't mind!

My goal for next year is to read for 20 hours!

IMM Post: Vlog

2009-06-06T21:32:00.002-05:00

I decided to actually follow through and post my vlog this week! Let me know if you would like me to keep doing them!!

Update in Status On 48 Hour Challenge

2009-06-06T10:24:00.002-05:00

Last night I started the challenge at: 10:45 P.M
I finished reading for the night at: 1:30 A.M.

This morning I started reading at: 9:46
I stopped reading and took a break at: 10:08 A.M

So far I have finished reading:
-"Twenty Boy Summer"

I plan on finishing today:
-"Prophecy of the Sisters"
-"30 Days of Keeping and Finding Sassy Sidekicks and BFF's"

So, wish me the best of luck ♥ ☺

48 Hour Reading Challenge!

2009-06-05T22:34:00.000-05:00

MotherReader: The Fourth Annual 48 Hour Book Challenge: Rules

I have decided to participate in the annual 48 Hour Reading Challenge this year!

I will begin the challenge at: 10:40 P.M. Central time on Friday Night.

Here is a list of some of the books that I am planning on finishing:
-"20 Boy Summer" (scroll down the blog for the contest!!)
-"Prophecy of the Sisters"
-"Revelation" by Kate Brian
-"Paradise Lost" by Kate Brian
-"The Miracle Girls"

So, we will see how far I get! I will be posting updates as I go, so stay tuned!

If you would like to participate, you can find out more information here:
http://www.motherreader.com/2009/06/fourth-annual-48-hour-book-challenge_04.html

Win 20 Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler!!

2009-06-05T22:02:00.002-05:00

Win 1 of 5 copies of "20 Boy Summer!" By Sarah Ockler

www.lb-teens.com

""Don't worry, Anna. I'll tell her, okay? Just let me think about the best way to do it."
"Okay."
"Promise me? Promise you won't say anything?"
"Don't worry." I laughed. "It's our secret, right?"

According to her best friend Frankie, twenty days in Zanzibar Bay is the perfect opportunity to have a summer fling, and if they meet one boy ever day, there's a pretty good chance Anna will find her first summer romance. Anna lightheartedly agrees to the game, but there's something she hasn't told Frankie---she's already had that kind of romance, and it was with Frankie's older brother, Matt, just before his tragic death one year ago.

Beautifully written and emotionally honest, this is a debut novel that explores what it truly means to love someone and what it means to grieve, and ultimately, how to make the most of every single moment this world has to offer."

Contest Details:

You have probably seen a lot of contests around the blogsophere right now to win copies of "20 Boy Summer!" I am going to add to the list! The more contests for it, the more chances to win, right?!?

To enter:
Post a comment telling me what you make if you had some sea-glass. The most creative entry will win a copy of the book! The rest will be randomly chosen.

+3: Follow this blog!
+3: Post about this contest on your blog
+1: Add my blog to your blogroll
+2: Tweet about this contest and include me at: PoloPony95
+5: Purchase something from my A-store and tell me what you bought!

Thanks for entering and goodluck!

This contest is only open to residents of the U.S. and will end on June 30th!

My Wishlist

2009-06-05T15:29:00.002-05:00

Alyssa from The Shady Glade blog, http://theshadyglade.blogspot.com/ , posted a list of all of her books that she is wishing for, new, or older! So, I decided to post one of my own!

These are all books that I would love to have, and would be willing to trade for! I have some pretty good books to trade for them if you are willing, including "The Awakening" by Kelley Armstrong (as well as others)! So, feel free to email me if you have any of these that you would want to trade for!

-Gemma Doyle Trilogy books
-Before I die
-Coffeehouse Angel
-Dream Girl
-North of Beautiful
-Something Maybe
-Living Dead Girl
-Bloom
-Princess of the Midnight Ball
-Amaranth Enchantment
-Saving Juliet
-Plague
-Breathing
-If I Stay
-The summer I turned pretty
-Last Winter (Kate Brian)
-Sleepaway Girls
-Unraveling
-Thirteen Reasons Why
-Because I am Furniture
-The Black Sheep
-Sarah Dessen Books
-When It Happens
-Waves
-On Pointe
-Braless in Wonderland
-The Juliet Club
-Nailed
-Lipstick Apology
-Girl At Sea
-Suite Scarlett
-If I have a wicked stepmother, wheres my prince?
-Sloppy Firsts
-Frogs and French Kisses
-Hush: An Irish Princesses Tail
-I was a teenage Popsicle
-My Fair Godmother
-I Heart You, You Haunt Me
-A Certain Slant of Light
-How I found the Perfect Dress
-Sweethearts
-A Kiss in Time
-Sovay
-A Sweet Disorder
-The Kings Rose

Winner of "The Real Real!!!"

2009-06-02T16:28:00.004-05:00

The Winner of the ARC of "The Real Real" is......................

.........Megan!!! Congratulations Megan! I will email you A.S.A.P!!

In her post, Megan chose that if any book got turned into a television series, she would want to have a role in the "Private" series by Kate Brian! Just a heads up Megan, the books ARE going to be turned into a television (or web, not sure) series and they are looking for someone to play the role of Kiran, so if you go to the "Private" web page, you can find the information! Goodluck! It would be awesome to see you in them!

Megan has 3 days to reply back to me and if I don't receive a reply I will choose a new winner

Win the WHOLE "Clique: Summer Collection!!!!!"

2009-06-01T09:30:00.009-05:00

The Pretty Committee is spending the summer apart, but they’re never far from drama... Five girls. Five stories. One ah-mazing summer.

THE CLIQUE

SUMMER COLLECTION

Find more information visit here: http://www.pickapoppy.com

Sound interesting?? If so, be sure to enter this fab-U-Lous contest to win the WHOLE "Clique Summer Collection!!!" Pretty cool, I'd say!!

Are you in?

If so, read below to find out how to get your entries in!

+2: Begin to follow my blog

+3: If you already follow my blog

+3: If you make a post on your blog about this contest

+1: Add this contest to your sidebar

+5: If you buy something from my A-store (link on sidebar)

Please be sure to leave your email addy with your comment!

Sorry, but this contest is only open to the U.S.

Goodluck!!

Bookmarks!

2009-05-31T15:01:00.004-05:00

Hello!!

Recently Amber from Must and Lust for books: http://mustandlustforbooks.blogspot.com/ wanted to find some bookmarks to buy for a reasonable price. So, I offered to make her some! I'm very happy that she mentioned them on her vlog post here: http://mustandlustforbooks.blogspot.com/2009/05/in-my-mailbox-7.html saying how gorgeous they are and how pleased she is with them!

If you are looking for cute bookmarks to purchase, please email me at: countrystars95@yahoo.com and I would be happy to make you some!

Waiting on Wednesday: All Unquiet Things

2009-05-30T22:52:00.006-05:00

Book: "All Unquiet Things" Author: Anna Jarzab Release Date: January 10, 2010 "All Unquiet Things centers around the murder of teen heiress Carly Ribelli, who was found shot to death a mile from her house in a wealthy Northern California suburb. Carly’s uncle, a dissolute alcoholic, was convicted of the crime, but a year later his daughter still doesn’t believe her father is guilty. Determined to prove his innocence, Audrey Ribelli contacts Carly’s ex-boyfriend, Neily Monroe, the boy who found Carly’s body. She is convinced that he knows more than he thinks about the events that led up to Carly’s death. Despite Neily’s initial reluctance, he and Audrey begin their investigation at the posh private school they attend, identifying prime suspects from among their spoiled classmates and digging up secrets about Carly’s past to get to the truth behind her murder." Thoughts: Oh my!! This looks fabulous!!! I am so excited to read this one! Dosen't it just look awesome? I am really looking forward to it!

Visit Anna here: www.annajarzab.com

Garden of Books Forum

2009-05-29T11:55:00.002-05:00

Hello!

I just started up a forum to go along with this blog and was wondering if anyone would be interested in joining? If so, that would be wonderful!

Here is a link:
http://polopony.proboards.com/index.cgi

Thanks!

Also, I just want to say that I am not trying to beat out Chelsea for YA book forum! I am a member of her forum and am enjoying it and will continue to do so! So please take a peak at hers as well!
http://yabookclub.50.forumer.com/index.php

Review: The Summoning

2009-05-28T09:24:00.005-05:00

Book: "The Summoning"
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Pages: 390
Rating: 5 out of 5
Cover Rating: 4 out of 5

Since the day in school when Chloe saw a ghost and freaked out, she has continued to see them, and is now in a group home, Lyle house. However, it seems that she is not the only one with powers. She soon finds out that the others living at Lyle house also have dark powers. Is it just a coincidence? Or are these teens being tricked into believing they are someone whom they are not?

"The Summoning" was an amazing book! Kelley Armstrong is a very good writer, she is very descriptive which contributes to the already great story line. "The Summoning" is very intriguing and definitely kept me interested and reading. There were a lot twists that made it exciting as well!

I for sure suggest this to anyone who wants a great read. This probably would not make the best beach read as it is darker and more involved. Overall, this is a terrific book!

Oh, and did you notice my slight break of posting a review for one of the "Private" books? Hahaha! I do have three more "Private" reviews to come though! I'm not done yet!

Only 2 Days Left to Enter!!

2009-05-27T09:47:00.003-05:00

There has only been 17 entries in my contest to win an ARC of "The Real Real!" And remember, if 50 people enter, I'm going to add another book to the prize. However, we only have 2 more days left before the contest ends so enter now and spread the word!!

http://booksforteensreviews.blogspot.com/2009/05/win-real-real-by-emma-mclaughline-and.html

Waiting on Wednesday!!

2009-05-26T17:31:00.006-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday: "Suspicion" by Kate Brian

You guys may have noticed all of my reviews on the "Private" series books lately, I admit, I'm addicted! In fact, I finished two of the books in one day! They are all beautifully written and have so many unexpected twists! They are amazingly good! So, you can imagine that naturally I am excited for "Suspicion!!!"

"Suspicion" is book #10 in the "Private" series!
Release Date: September 8th
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Amazon Product Description:
"In the newest Private book from Kate Brian, Suspicion sets up a mystery that even Reed has never faced."

Not to much information on it yet, but its bound to be good!!

Preorder here!