Inspiration for your Bathroom

We recently have made one of those big decisions in life:  We bought a house! 

It has taken us about two years since starting, but here we are.  We could not have been more happier with this new home. 

 We love that it is in the woods and more rural than our other alternatives.  My husband fell in love with the garage, and I fell in love with the kitchen and the rather spacious bedrooms!

 It does not take much for me to get inspired with doing a makeover.  With empty rooms and nothing on the walls--it is a fresh canvas.

  One area that I hope to be able to save up money and recreate is our bathrooms.  They are basic and serve its purpose.  I am thankful we have bathrooms, but with everything it can use a bit of beautifying and upgrades.  We have two of them.  One thing that I am not used to by any means is having two bathrooms.

 I am still wrapping my mind behind the whole idea.  We were in a small apartment with one bedroom and one bathroom.  It is dawning on me how much of a blessing it is to have not one but TWO bathrooms! 

Bathroom

Master Bathroom

For one thing, having a bathroom a few steps away from the master bedroom is simply divine.  Secondly having a second bathroom solely for visitors and my daughter has its benefits.  I am growing quite fond of decorating and updating my bathroom, but as in everything in life we must do it in baby steps.

Updating and decorating a home is a process. Step one in the process of updating and decorating is dreaming and becoming inspired with ideas!

First off is Bathroom Faucets:
I would gladly uproot all of our faucets and replace them with something that is water efficient with a touch of elegance.  Saving water is something that I am all for.  As new homeowners, I can feel the effects of wasted water hit our wallets.  For both our guest and master bathroom I have fallen in love with this bathroom faucet which deems itself in my eyes elegant and modern!  We found this Antioch Faucet on Danze.com.  They have some really beautiful faucets to choose from.  The color Tumbled Bronze is just beautiful and to me, and is full of rustic charm.  Given our bathroom counters are a lighter color we would most likely go with the equally stunning brushed nickel.  If we did ever upgrade to darker countertops or a deep colored vanity--Tumbled Bronze by Danze would be perfect.

Antioch™ 

Two Handle Mini Widespread Lavatory Faucet

Secondly Upgrade our Countertops and Vanity:

In an apartment I shared with three other girls we had two sinks.  It was great.  Simply adding a sink in my dream bathroom makeover could not hurt, could it?  I feel like my husband needs something more neutral and guy friendly, and this would be perfect!  The slate marbling is still chic, and modern.  Having a His and Hers sink with the bathroom faucets we have pictured above would make the bathroom more of "ours" rather than just mine.  I feel like he needs to have his own sink.  The cabinetry holding up the countertop is something I would love to have whenever we get around to updating and remodeling. The drawers here have a nice clean look to them as they are painted a clean crisp white.  The framed mirrors I would replace with maybe one big one.  The look is just inviting and fun to me!  I like how it also caters for more of a neutral look for my husband. 

Traditional Bathroom by Jasper Cabinets & Cabinetry MasterBrand Cabinets, Inc.

Thirdly something organically artful.
What I hope for is something to fill in this extra space spot next to our bath tub on the right.

 I feel like something of earthy organic artful entertaining is to be placed here. A plant that offers a splash of color, and a neat dresser or cupboard that stows extra towels?  It may be a bit contemporary, but I love the vibrant colors.  I may go for other neutral earthy tones, but I love the inspiration that stems from this picture!

Photo Credit Polly Eltes

As we make this house a home, I cannot but be excited at the possibilities of what we can make this become.  I hope that you can be inspired to recreate a lovely bathroom. 

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post.

Three days left and counting {Ultimate Christian Living Bundle Sale}

As a book reader I love deals.  Our local second hand bookstore is one of my favorite places to go.   I find really good deals on books.  But I do have to hunt things down, and sometimes sadly have to walk out of the bookstore with nothing because nothing catches my eye.  There is always sweet gratification at finding books that appeal to me.  

The Ultimate Christian Living bundle is that for me--a set of books that appeal to me at a great price!  The fact that these are books are geared towards different aspects of a Christian Life make this unique! And...available without hauling my kid into the store is just a plus!

This Christian Living bundle has everything from Parenting to Witnessing and Reaching the Loss, from Marriage and Children related books to Devotionals.  Find out more on the bundle here.

  Two books that are catching my eye right now is Extraordinary Grace by Gary Chapman and Chris Fabry and Team Us: Marriage Together by Ashleigh Slater  Here is a little tidbit of what Extraordinary Grace is all about!

Do you feel like a broken branch on God’s famly tree? Do you feel like God chooses the super spiritual and the “perfect” but you’re on the outside looking in? Are you afraid he won’t accept you because you’re not perfect? God is not looking for perfect people. He’s looking for those who need his extraordinary grace. In this encouraging book, Dr. Gary Chapman and Chris Fabry explore the lives of people who abandoned themselves to the love and mercy of God.

God is ready to forgive, restore, and give an abundant life. He wants to showcase His mercy and love through you. If you long to connect with God at a heart level, if you’re struggling to understand your brokenness and how past and present mistakes can be forgiven, this book will encourage you. When you hear this good news and truly experience it in the heart, you’ll discover the path to spreading God’s grace to others. Discover the hidden treasure of God’s Extraordinary Grace! Perfect for small group discussion or individual study.

 Here is a little bit of what Team Us: Marriage Together is about:

What are you agreeing to when you say “I do”? When a couple promises “I do,” they agree to more than just a shared last name, a joint bank account, and no more dateless nights. This husband and wife duo forms a new team. “Life together” becomes their mantra. Nothing can come between them. At least, that’s the plan.

But then real life sets in. With it come disappointments and frustrations. If the couple isn’t intentional in their day-to-day interactions, that once enthusiastic “we” can slowly revert to “you” and “me.” Before long, the couple’s left wondering what happened to their team spirit.

Team Us: Marriage Together offers couples practical ways to cultivate and strengthen unity in their marriages. Author Ashleigh Slater shares from her own marriage as she presents couples with realistic ideas on how to foster cooperation, deepen commitment, and exercise grace on a daily basis. 

These are just two books from the Ultimate Christian Living Bundle...Read on to find out more about what is in store for you!

With a total of 75+ ebooks valued at over $1140 and bonus gifts from companies like Dayspring and Tyndale you can get it all at $34.95!

  --------------------------------

 Who among us doesn’t want to lead a life worth emulating?

With great kids, a loving marriage, a successful career or business and a closer, faith-filled walk with the Lord. But for many of us, making that a reality is big challenge!
Balancing life’s priorities can seem a bit overwhelming at times. The pressures of work, the need for finances, the demands of parenting and the resulting strain on marriage can leave us weathered, weary and wondering what really works in life?
That’s where the Ultimate Christian Living Bundle comes in. Ultimate-Bundles.com called in some best selling authors, leading experts and top business professionals to address the most common challenges faced by families and individuals today – all from a solid, Biblical foundation.
For the ridiculously low price of just $34.95 (for the PDF version) or $39.97 (for the eReader version), you can get access to a carefully curated collection of eBooks and eCourses with a total combined value of over $1,140 that addresses these issues with stunning clarity and practical application.

For the family…

The bundle contains 10 wonderful books focused on incredibly inventive ways you can craft the marriage you signed on for. To complement that subject, they added 8 more books focused on parenting and passing on your faith to your kids. That wouldn’t be complete without books just for kids so they also included 8 children’s books that parents can read with their children. To close out the content for family life, the highly praised Singing Bible MP3 version was added (a $25 value all by itself). It actually teaches children the story of the Bible not just random stories.

For your professional life…

You will find John Muratori and Michael Pink’s six -hour Christian Wealth Building course ($77 value) which was complemented with Bob Lotich’s 31-day devotional Managing Money God’s Way. There are a total of 14 business related books and courses including Zig Ziglar’s powerful Born To Win course (that Seth Godin and Dave Ramsey rave about), Dr. James B. Richards, Wired For Success – Programmed For Failure and Untold Secrets for Creating Wealth by Brig Hart and John Beehner. You’ll even find one of the best selling Christian business books of all time, The Bible Incorporated – In Your Life, Job & Business.

To ignite your faith…

Rounding out the package, Bridge Logos and Moody Press made a series of classic Christian literature available from generals of the faith like Charles Spurgeon, D.L. Moody, A.W. Pink, E.M. Bounds, Calvin, Wesley, Edwards and more who wrote about grace, prayer, faith and an overcoming life.
In addition to these wonderful classics, the Ultimate Bundles team snagged 12 heart-stirring devotionals from authors like A.W. Tozer and Nancy Leigh DeMoss that speak to matters of faith that are sure to inspire. Let’s not forget Gary Chapman’s Extraordinary Grace or Ray Comfort’s Way of the Master for sharing your faith with others. Both heartbreaking and inspiring, don’t miss Philip Cameron’s, They Call Me Dad, the story of one man’s fight to save orphans from human trafficking.
So as you can see, the Ultimate Christian Living Bundle is an extraordinary value.

But it still gets better…

The Ultimate Bundles team asked several sponsors to step up to the plate and with no strings attached, provide meaningful BONUS GIFTS. One of the first to step up was Dayspring Greeting Cards who offered a choice of heart-warming gift card packages to choose from. Another, is a downloadable DVD workout series for getting in shape and maintaining health. With a retail value of $62.99 it includes a Biblical study guide for stewarding your health. Bonus gifts alone have a total retail value of over $160

So now you know…

For as little as $34.95 you can receive over $1,140 worth of valuable eBooks and eCourses that address the issues of life most of us face at one time or another, from a profoundly Biblical worldview. The BONUS GIFTS alone are worth more than four times the price of the bundle! So, if you want to ignite your faith, strengthen your family and help your professional life, there’s no better place to start! All the hard work has been done for you…

The Ultimate Christian Living Bundle will only be on sale for 6 days – from 8am (EST) on Wednesday, November 5th until 11:59pm (EST) on Monday, November 10th.
But don’t wait until the last moment – there are only 18,500 bundles available and once they’re gone, they’re gone!

You can buy with confidence because your purchase is covered by the Ultimate Bundles 30-day guarantee: you have a full month to enjoy all the books and courses in the bundle, and if you don’t feel like it’s made a huge difference to your family’s life, you’ll get your money back in full!

Here’s what you need to know about the sale:

When? 8 a.m. (EST) Wednesday, November 5 until 11:59 p.m. (EST) Monday, November 10 (or until 18,500 bundles are sold)

What? 75 eBooks plus eCourses and more, PLUS over $160 worth of bonus products you’ll really use!

Where? Purchase the bundle HERE.

How much? Well now, that’s the best part. The entire package is worth over $1,140, and it’s yours for as little as $34.95. Sweet deal, right?

When you’re ready, you can either buy here directly, or right through the website. It’s fast and easy, and you’ll have your bundle sent to you via email within minutes.

Click here for more info or to buy now.

Remember, this bundle is available for 6 days only, from 8 a.m. (EST) on Wednesday, November 5th to 11:59 p.m. (EST) on Monday, November 10th (or until 18,500 bundles are sold).

Disclosure: I have included affiliate links in this post. Read the fine print about this bundle and read the answers to frequently asked questions about the bundle.

Fall a perfect time for Fall Reading {Ultimate Christian Living Book Bundle Sale}

I have to say that Fall Reading is far from me as a Spa day some weeks!  But I know that as a mom of a very energetic 4 year old, that I do need some time to reboot and glean from the Bible or a good book that just gets me grounded back into Him.  This year as my daughter seemed to only exponentially grow in wit, speech, and boundless energy--I have felt my nerves on more than one occasion hit their breaking point.  And my time for gaining strength from the Bible or a good book is ever more desperate!

I have to admit family are the ones that see every fault and ugliness that the public eye never sees.  Oh I am so thankful that even though I lose my temper and start yelling from the bottom of my lungs, that there is forgiveness for me.  I close my eyes and I feel the shame of having my child's eyes grow big from the bellowing.  I take a sigh and feel like the world is caving in.  How did we get into this rowdy mess?  How did doing an art project or playing with my kid become irritating and frustrating?  What happened to me being fun?  I hate being stressed, yet here I stand in front of my family, stressed.  Stressed over an excessive usage of glue.  

Art Project  that turned out great inspite of WAY too much glue!

But God is good.  Grace and Forgiveness are right there.  After taking pride and selfishness down, I kneel down at eye level and ask forgiveness from my daughter whose eyes are uncertain from the "bellowing" mother I was a few minutes ago.  Children are so quick to forgive and love.  Praise God!  My husband though I know I do push his limits, is so gracious to forgive and always love me even in those dark moments where I feel like I am at my tipping point.  I am so blessed by these two being in my life!

I feel that this year as I examine my own life of marriage and parenthood, I can see a gradual upward trend towards me "losing my cool".  I want to change from that, and I am glad that I am not alone in this!  How do I know this?  Well...not only from my friends who are mothers too, but the fact that there are books written regarding this.  And that is why I am excited about the round of books that are in this Ultimate Christian Living Bundle that has some really great books that appeal to me as a mother and wife. 

Did you see it? Can you pinpoint some the books that have my interest?  

You got it!  Even-Tempered Mother, From Grouchy to Great, and yes a third, the Unwired Mom.  These are just a few books that I have been eye balling on Amazon, yet here they are!

 I feel like this Ultimate Bundle of books has such a great combination of such great titles that will be perfect fall reading books to inspire, encourage, and refuel us as mothers.  There are great gems in this bundle.  I love that it is tailored for Christians as it includes books that concerns Reaching the Lost, Married Life, Devotionals, and much more. . .

 Another favorite of mine in this bundle is the Children's books included in this set.  There are books that can make it easy for a mom to tune into a specific topic for teaching.  I also love the Holiday books for Christmas and Thanksgiving!





This is just the tip of the iceberg.  In calculating certain books that I like in this bundle alone I find myself saving a lot more money than if I were to just buy individually from Amazon.  I hope to pass on the savings onto you. Browse the titles and find what would be your Fall and Winter Reads this year there are so many wonderful authors and books included.

When you are done browsing be sure to take advantage of the sale and don't forget to grab it as it ends November 10th!

Who among us doesn’t want to lead a life worth emulating?

With great kids, a loving marriage, a successful career or business and a closer, faith-filled walk with the Lord. But for many of us, making that a reality is big challenge!
Balancing life’s priorities can seem a bit overwhelming at times. The pressures of work, the need for finances, the demands of parenting and the resulting strain on marriage can leave us weathered, weary and wondering what really works in life?
That’s where the Ultimate Christian Living Bundle comes in. Ultimate-Bundles.com called in some best selling authors, leading experts and top business professionals to address the most common challenges faced by families and individuals today – all from a solid, Biblical foundation.
For the ridiculously low price of just $34.95 (for the PDF version) or $39.97 (for the eReader version), you can get access to a carefully curated collection of eBooks and eCourses with a total combined value of over $1,140 that addresses these issues with stunning clarity and practical application.

For the family…

The bundle contains 10 wonderful books focused on incredibly inventive ways you can craft the marriage you signed on for. To complement that subject, they added 8 more books focused on parenting and passing on your faith to your kids. That wouldn’t be complete without books just for kids so they also included 8 children’s books that parents can read with their children. To close out the content for family life, the highly praised Singing Bible MP3 version was added (a $25 value all by itself). It actually teaches children the story of the Bible not just random stories.

For your professional life…

You will find John Muratori and Michael Pink’s six -hour Christian Wealth Building course ($77 value) which was complemented with Bob Lotich’s 31-day devotional Managing Money God’s Way. There are a total of 14 business related books and courses including Zig Ziglar’s powerful Born To Win course (that Seth Godin and Dave Ramsey rave about), Dr. James B. Richards, Wired For Success – Programmed For Failure and Untold Secrets for Creating Wealth by Brig Hart and John Beehner. You’ll even find one of the best selling Christian business books of all time, The Bible Incorporated – In Your Life, Job & Business.

To ignite your faith…

Rounding out the package, Bridge Logos and Moody Press made a series of classic Christian literature available from generals of the faith like Charles Spurgeon, D.L. Moody, A.W. Pink, E.M. Bounds, Calvin, Wesley, Edwards and more who wrote about grace, prayer, faith and an overcoming life.
In addition to these wonderful classics, the Ultimate Bundles team snagged 12 heart-stirring devotionals from authors like A.W. Tozer and Nancy Leigh DeMoss that speak to matters of faith that are sure to inspire. Let’s not forget Gary Chapman’s Extraordinary Grace or Ray Comfort’s Way of the Master for sharing your faith with others. Both heartbreaking and inspiring, don’t miss Philip Cameron’s, They Call Me Dad, the story of one man’s fight to save orphans from human trafficking.
So as you can see, the Ultimate Christian Living Bundle is an extraordinary value.

But it still gets better…

The Ultimate Bundles team asked several sponsors to step up to the plate and with no strings attached, provide meaningful BONUS GIFTS. One of the first to step up was Dayspring Greeting Cards who offered a choice of heart-warming gift card packages to choose from. Another, is a downloadable DVD workout series for getting in shape and maintaining health. With a retail value of $62.99 it includes a Biblical study guide for stewarding your health. Bonus gifts alone have a total retail value of over $160

So now you know…

For as little as $34.95 you can receive over $1,140 worth of valuable eBooks and eCourses that address the issues of life most of us face at one time or another, from a profoundly Biblical worldview. The BONUS GIFTS alone are worth more than four times the price of the bundle! So, if you want to ignite your faith, strengthen your family and help your professional life, there’s no better place to start! All the hard work has been done for you…
The Ultimate Christian Living Bundle will only be on sale for 6 days – from 8am (EST) on Wednesday, November 5th until 11:59pm (EST) on Monday, November 10th.
But don’t wait until the last moment – there are only 18,500 bundles available and once they’re gone, they’re gone!
You can buy with confidence because your purchase is covered by the Ultimate Bundles 30-day guarantee: you have a full month to enjoy all the books and courses in the bundle, and if you don’t feel like it’s made a huge difference to your family’s life, you’ll get your money back in full!

Here’s what you need to know about the sale:

• When? 8 a.m. (EST) Wednesday, November 5th until 11:59 p.m. (EST) Monday, November 10th (or until 18,500 bundles are sold).

• What? 75 eBooks plus eCourses and more, PLUS over $160 worth of bonus products you’ll really use!

• Where? Purchase the bundle HERE.

• How much? Well now, that’s the best part. The entire package is worth over $1,140, and it’s yours for as little as $34.95. Sweet deal, right?

When you’re ready, you can either buy here directly, or right through the website. It’s fast and easy, and you’ll have your bundle sent to you via email within minutes.

Click here for more info or to buy now.

Remember, this bundle is available for 6 days only, from 8 a.m. (EST) on Wednesday, November 5th to 11:59 p.m. (EST) on Monday, November 10th (or until 18,500 bundles are sold).

Want to know exactly what’s included in the bundle?
Take a look through the categories, as well as the full list of included resources.

 

Business & Personal Finance

• Bible Incorporated by Michael @ MichaelPink.com ($10.00)
• Born to Win by Zig and Tom Ziglar ($9.99)
• Christian Business Legends by Rick Williams and Jared Crooks ($10.00)
• Christian Wealth Building by John Muratori and Michael Pink @ MichaelPink.com ($77.00)
• Discover Your Purpose by Jory @ JoryFisher.com ($19.97)
• Managing Money God’s Way by Bob Lotich @ ChristianPF ($5.99)
• My Father’s Business by Peter Tsukahira ($13.99)
• Rainforest Strategy by Michael @ MichaelPink.com ($25.00)
• Selling Among Wolves by Michael @ MichaelPink.com ($15.00)
• Taking Back the Gates of Commerce by Michael @ MichaelPink.com ($77.00)
• The Art of Storytelling by John Walsh ($10.49)
• The Road to Purpose by Carlos L. Malone, Sr. ($12.81)
• The Untold Secret that Creates True Wealth by Brig Hart & John Beehner at Ask Wise Counsel ($13.84)
• Wired for Success Programmed for Failure by Dr. James B. Richards ($13.49)

 

Christian Classics Series

• Absolute Surrender by Andrew Murray ($13.99)
• All of Grace by Charles H. Spurgeon ($13.99)
• Answers to Prayer by George Mueller ($14.99)
• Fellowship of the Burning Heart by A.W. Tozer ($13.99)
• God the Creator by John Clavin ($15.99)
• Names of God by Nathan Stone ($5.24)
• Power, Passion & Prayer by Charles G. Finney ($14.99)
• Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God by Jonathan Edwards ($15.99)
• The Classic Collection on Prayer by E.M. Bounds ($18.99)
• The Holy Spirit & Power by John Wesley ($14.99)
• The Incomparable Christ by J. Oswald Sanders ($6.74)
• The Overcoming Life by D.L. Moody ($16.99)
• The Pilgrim’s Progress in Modern English by John Bunyan ($17.99)
• The Sovereignty of God by A.W. Pink ($15.99)

 

Christian Living

• Equipped for Effectiveness in Spiritual Warfare by Al Pittman ($11.99)
• Extraordinary Grace by Gary Chapman & Chris Fabry ($17.99)
• How Big is Your Umbrella? by Sheila @ ToLoveHonorandVacuum.com ($2.99)
• It Happens After Prayer by H.B. Charles, Jr. ($9.74)
• One Kingdom Under God by Dr. Tony Evans ($6.74)
• One Minute After Your Die by Erwin W. Lutzer ($5.24)
• Relationships for Life by Richard Marks, PhD ($9.99)
• Watching God Work by Carolyn Koontz Dearteaga ($13.99)
• Who Are You and Why Are You Here? by Dan Miller @ 48 Days ($35)

 

Devotional Life

• #Disciple by Scott @ Simple Life, Abundant Life ($4.99)
• 30 Days to a Life Made Full by Shanti @ Life Made Full ($14.99)
• 30 Daily Appointments with Heaven by Dr. Reggie Anderson ($2.99)
• A Thousand Years by Stanton Lanier ($8.99)
• Good News of the Day by Yo Snyder ($16.99)
• Guilt-Free Quiet Times by Emily @ Glo-Girl ($9.99)
• Mornings with Tozer by A.W. Tozer ($13.49)
• Pause by Chris Maxwell ($9.99)
• Prayers & Meditations by Christin @ ChristinDitchfield.com ($10.00)
• Prayers That Change Things by Lloyd B. Hildebrand ($9.99)
• The Quiet Place by Nancy Leigh DeMoss ($14.99)
• This God We Serve by Rev. William J. Morford ($12.97)

 

For Children

• A Perfect Pet for Peyton by Gary Chapman & Rick Osborne ($3.99)
• Because I Said So Combo Pack by Kim @ Not Consumed ($8.49)
• Christ in the Commandments by Luke & Trisha @ Intoxicated on Life ($8.99)
• Christmas Celebrations by Kerry @ How to Homeschool My Child ($14.95)
• Katie and Addie (with J.D.) Love Washington, D.C. by Michele Wetteland & John Rose ($8.99)
• Learning to Speak Life: Fruit of the Spirit by Michael & Carlie @ Managing Our Blessings ($4.99)
• Saying Yes to God As a Family by Kristen @ We Are THAT Family ($1.99)
• Thanksgiving Heart by Stacie @ Motherhood on a Dime ($3.99)
• The Singing Bible by Rick Osborne ($24.95)

 

Inspirational Novels

• Junia: Woman Apostle, Only a Girl by Wanda Vassallo ($14.26)
• Pearl in the Sand by Tessa Afshar ($9.99)
• The Prodigy Project by Doug @ All Truth is God’s Truth ($9.99)
• The Turning by Davis Bunn ($9.99)

 

Married Life

• 25 Ways to Communicate Respect to Your Husband by Jennifer @ Loving Life at Home
• 100 Ways to Love Your Husband by Lisa @ Club 31 Women ($9.99)
• 100 Ways to Love Your Wife by Matthew @ MatthewLJacobson.com ($9.99)
• 365+ Ways to Love Your Wife When Your Kids Are Young by Leah @ LeahHeffner.com ($4.99)
• Intentional Marriage by Crystal @ Serving Joyfully ($4.99)
• No Longer Two by Jennifer Miller ($8.99)
• Pulling Back the Shades by Dannah Gr1esh & Dr. Juli Slattery ($8.99)
• Team Us: Marriage Together by Ashleigh Slater ($10.49)
• Worth the Fight by Kayse @ KaysePratt.com ($3.99)
• Your Supernatural Marriage by Bob & Audrey Meisner ($12.61)

 

Parenting

• Even-Tempered Mother by Tabitha @ Meet Penny ($4.99)
• Financial Parenting by Larry Burkett & Rick Osborne ($7.95)
• From Grouchy to Great by Ruth @ The Better Mom ($4.99)
• The Spaghetti Shots by Courtney @ CourtneyWestlake.com ($4.99)
• Teaching Your Child How to Pray by Rick Osborne ($10.49)
• The Unwired Mom by Sarah Mae @ SarahMae.com ($4.99)
• Three Decades of Fertility by Natalie @ Visionary Womanhood ($5.99)
• When Motherhood Feels Too Hard by Kelly @ Generation Cedar ($4.97)

 

Reaching the Lost

• How to Know God Exists by Ray Comfort ($7.50)
• Reach: How to Use Your Social Media Influence for the Glory of God by Laura @ LauraKrokos.com ($4.99)
• The Way of the Master by Ray Comfort ($7.69)
• They Call Me Dad by Philip @ Stella’s Voice ($12.95)

Click here for more info or to buy now.

Remember, this bundle is available for 6 days only, from 8 a.m. (EST) on Wednesday, November 5th to 11:59 p.m. (EST) on Monday, November 10th (or until 18,500 bundles are sold).

Disclosure: I have included affiliate links in this post. Read the fine print about this bundle and read the answers to frequently asked questions about the bundle.

Every Bitter Thing is Sweet by Sara Hagerty {Book Review}

http://everybitterthingissweet.com

Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book.  My opinions are my own.  I was free to give my honest review whether positive or negative.  This post contains affiliate links.

Simply, wow.  In this book one will find a balm for troubles, hardships, and pain.  And hope.  Hope in a God that loves us and desires for us to live life in its fullness of joy!  With each hardship and seemingly bitter frustration, Sara learns that all the unraveling of herself gives way to the birth if new life.  A newness of life and living that she has yearned for in the inner most parts of her being.  She writes with such vulnerability that I find her book really transparent and fresh water reading to me.  I love that I am enjoying this book!  I find it encouraging as Sara shows us how she came to discover God more deeply and intimately.    Each chapter opens up little by little unfolding the messes and hardships Sara faces in her life.  Her unraveling becomes a place that my heart stirs within me, for I can relate to unravellings in my life.  Her honesty with her faith and how she lived life before coming to an end of herself are encouraging as I feel that most avoid bearing weaknesses.  She writes with a freshness and ease that makes this book one of the "stay up and read all night" kind of books for me.  I would definitely pass to on to friends and family.  

Interested in reading this book, you can find this book on Amazon:
 Every Bitter Thing Is Sweet: Tasting the Goodness of God in All Things

Nature's Sleep 50% off sale and code

Nature's Sleep is offering 50% off our entire site with the coupon code: BEARS50. As always, this deal includes free shipping. Valid in continental US only

This post contains affiliate links.

The Holiday season is wonderful, but it can be exhausting as well. You are kept busy with work and the kids' end-of-the-year school activities. Your days feel longer, and your nights seem shorter. Nature's Sleep can help you make the most out of those nights! Try one of our memory foam mattresses to get the rest you deserve. Our mattresses' ergonomic design can help prevent tossing and turning. Treat yourself to a new memory foam mattress! Until December 16 you can get 50% off Nature's Sleep entire website! To make the deal even sweeter, you get free shipping too! Use coupon code BEARS50. Valid in the continental US only.

All of our mattresses are on the cutting edge of the newest technology in mattresses. They naturally conform to your body weight and temperature and evenly distributes weight to relieve pressure points and reduce pain for a better night’s sleep. This makes Nature's Sleep mattresses ideal for those that suffer from illnesses that cause sleeplessness. Nature's Sleep mattresses are top-of-the-line, made with care and quality. Nature's Sleep is an eco-friendly company and the memory foam is not made with any harmful chemicals.
So what are you waiting for? Shop now, and start getting the best night's sleep of your life!

Mary Lambert-Heart on My Sleeve {Album Review}

Order her latest album
* iTunes:    http://bit.ly/MaryHeart
* Amazon:  http://bit.ly/MaryLHeart

Mary Lambert was an artist I have never heard of until recently.  Her songs are really raw and truly emotional.  Lambert's style is one that seems to be a mix of Adele and a bit of Missy Higgins without the rock.  I would easily play this in my car for long drives and as I read books.  I can easily imagine a song such as "Wounded Animal" and "So Far Away" with its mellow tone and catchy words playing in a coffee shop.  Heart on My Sleeve is easy listening for the most part.  There are songs that have some words that are inappropriate for my four year old's ears, but apart from that, I think it's enjoyable. It reminded me of Missy Higgins' voice and style as I listened to Lambert's song "Monochromatic".  I really love her soulfulness and transparency in her music.  It is evident she has gone through a lot of trials and  hardships and she does indeed bare her Heart on her sleeves.

It is really awesome listening to an artist who comes from Seattle, near where I live! 

My favorite from her new music album is Monochromatic and Wounded Animal.   

* Official Mary Lambert Website – www.marylambertsings.com
* Twitter – @marylambertsing
* YouTube –  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqqqV50zaAc
* Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/marylambertsings   

Disclosure statement:  I participated in the Mary Lambert Heart On My Sleeve album review program as a member of One2One Network. I was provided a free album to review but all opinions are my own.   

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14% Cash Back on Participating Halloween Retailers

 

Talk about scary good deals! With only a few weeks until Halloween, we're always looking for ways to save more money while still enjoying all the festivities. Whether it's looking for a fun costume, picking up some spooky decorations or getting ready to bob for apples, Swagbucks is here to make your Halloween prep full of hair-raising savings & value! 

Starting Oct 6th - Oct 26th, you get up to 14% cash back on participating Halloween retailers -- that's up to 14 SB per dollar spent! But that's not all: get an additional $5 Paypal gift card when you spend $75 or more (members will receive gift card by Dec 1st, limit one card per member). How many ways can you think of where Halloween shopping helps you save money towards your holiday shopping?? 

You can find all the participating stores plus coupons here on Swagbucks. From Target to Costumes4Less and Wholesale Party Supplies, you can find everything you need for Halloween PLUS get a ton of Swag Bucks. And you know what Swag Bucks are good for? There are more than hundreds of gift cards to redeem your SB for in the Rewards Store -- those gift cards are how I've paid for Christmas! Sign up here and take advantage of the deals & savings today!

*This Post may contain affiliate links to help keep this blog running.

Rival Hearts by Randel

I was pulled into this book. Author Randel writes in a manner that makes it easy for a reader to be "in" the book. Her work in Rival Hearts is one that I admire because of its fluidity and cohesiveness as we are pulled along for a ride in the lives of the character. The book has a great pace and I did not feel like it was rushed or dragged too long. I have read several books in the Quilts of Love Series and there are a few I just want to read over again because it is that good! Rival Hearts is one of them.

Rival Hearts took me by surprise as we are wrapped up in a contest between Molly, a skilled quilter, and the charmer,Ben Weaver, a sportive, all about outdoors man. Their boss Masterson turns their world upside down as he sets his two best magazine editors against each other for a promotion as editor in chief. As Molly and Ben find themselves out of their comfort zone, they find out what they truly desire is more than just a promotion. The plot though a bit obvious was not boring by any means. Author Randel kept things interesting as each character developed and grew.

 I found myself intrigued and reading till I found out who wins the promotion. and was pleasantly surprised how Randel stitched everything together. I also appreciated how the ending was satisfying without any loose ends. I would without a doubt recommend this book to a friend.

Disclosure: I was given a reviewer's copy of the book.  I have given my honest review and was not obligated to write a positive review.

Excellent Resource and Reference Book for C.S. Lewis Books

When I was in my early teens, I loved reading C.S. Lewis, but often I got lost in the midst of all the characters and the lands and quite frankly got myself lost into his books in a bad way. This book would have helped kept things straight for me, and aided me in understanding his books better. I find that this book is an excellent addition in my library for my kids and I will find this a go to book when we ever need a quick refresh on who a character is or help remembering anything! I can see this book a perfect aide in book reports too.

I find that the book is easy to navigate due to the alphabetical order of places, things, names, etc.  I would highly recommend this book for those who may want a quick easy guide, refresh, informational book for Lewis's books.

I did receive a free complimentary copy of this book. this however has not influenced me to write a positive or negative opinion.My opinions are my own.

Read more reviews on this book: http://litfusegroup.com/books/the-a-z-of-c-s-lewis
Click here to learn more about the book and purchase here.

Balanced by Tricia Goyer

Disclosure: I received a complimentary free copy of the book for the purpose of writing a review. I was not entitled to give a positive response, but my own thoughts and opinion of the book.

My Review of Balanced:

Tricia Goyer’s new book, Balanced, is a useful book in terms of having someone who faced her share of struggles in the matters of balancing out time.  Her writing reminds me of that a conversation from one woman to another.  She is down to earth and approachable two things that make her book smooth easy reading.

One of my favorite gleanings from her book:

“Balance is not possible—at least not in the form of a perfect schedule or a perfect routine.  Even if we find balance one day, it most likely will slip between our fingers the next.”

This impacted me for too often I feel the need to reach a perfect schedule where things fall in step to the beat of the clock.  Too often I feel the frustration and stress of keeping that "balance" that is not even possible as Goyer stated.  And is it not so true that many times we hold ourselves to a state of perfection that cannot be attained?  

These are one of the many tips that I have gleaned from this book.  I tell you that I found Balanced an encouraging read.  

Ruthless: Knowing the God Who Fights For You by Bo Stern

Disclosure: I did receive a free copy of the book for the purpose of writing a review.  This did not affect my review.  I was not paid to write this review.   

I would have never described God as One who is Ruthless. Yet through the perspective of Author Bo Stern, I can understand how this word does indeed rightfully describe our God—and I am glad He is Ruthless.  In the midst of the storms and struggles she peers into the character of God, and finds Him to be “standing strong and relentless against the enemies you face.” He is not the enemy throwing and hurling “rocks” at us.  Instead He is the one fighting for us, ruthlessly.  As I examine myself and my own thoughts about God, I realize I do doubt the goodness of God.  But why?  I am called to question why I think God these thoughts about Him.  So I bring to the table all my accusations that I hold inside, and one by one as I read through the chapters I realize how my thoughts have gone incredibly awry.  Why have I resented God for the hardships in my life?  Why did I doubt His goodness?  His love?  There is no cause for it.  Bo Stern calls us to discover our God.

We get to know Him more as Stern takes us through examples in the Bible.  I love that the Bible is  frequently quotes and used in this book. The chapters are short and easy reading.  I find that I can hold onto a nugget from every chapter.  At the end of each chapter are “Worth Pondering” questions that are meant to stretch me, challenge me, and help me discover the thoughts of my heart.

Bo Stern’s heart in this book makes reading so easy, as if we are  arm in arm  taking a stroll and talking.  In life I find myself doubting the goodness of God now and again, and with every chapter I find those doubts in my head take flight.

I do recommend this book for those in search or in need of knowing God.  For those who have doubts about God or even his goodness, I recommend this book to you.  Those who feel shallow in their faith or far from God--I highly recommend this book.  Curious about God and who He is?  This book will allow you to peer into the very character of God.  This is a book I recommend all around, Stern is a very readable author, and has gone through some very tough battles--and her faith and love towards God has grown.  Ruthless is such an encouraging book for those facing really big battles in their lives.

Vegan Plant Based Protein: VEGANSMART Nutritional Shake Review

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post by Naturade through 4sponsor.com with my unbiased thoughts.
Naturade has given me every product for free and Naturade has not paid me for this review.

Vanilla, Chocolate, Chai

My Review

Having a Vegan Smart Nutritional Shake in place of a snack or lunch was a change for me.  Swapping a Protein Shake during my day energized me and fortified me.  I did feel awesome by doing good by my body.  I also felt full and often did not reach for my snacks.  Drinking Vegan Smart Nutritional Shake gave me that edge I needed to get me through the day.

With each serving packed with Vitamins, Minerals, Probiotics, Omega 3, Non-GMO protein, and more--Vegan Smart's All in One Nutritional shake puts my multivitamin to shame.  Personally this will help me get back on the path to a  healthy lifestyle every morning!  Can I say that I love drinking healthily?
For more information on their nutritional facts be sure to check out more about their products on their website.

Using the Product:
All of the products after shaking and blending in a blender had a smooth consistent texture.  Vanilla was the first flavor I tried.  My mistake was forgetting to use Ice Water.  With room temperature water I could really taste the protein flavor!  Ice cold water is a must!  I quickly blended my mistake with some ice and fruit.  It easily came out just right.  It was far better tasting after blending it up.

On the second attempt with the Vanilla, I simply used ice cold water.  The taste of the protein was there still, but it was not bad at all.  I would not mind having a packet with just ice water on a daily basis.  Vanilla is such a versatile flavor that I find that I can use it with ice cold water and be happy---or supplement my fruit smoothies providing that perfect blend of vanilla taste and fruit.  Directions also say that I can mix-in Vegan Smart with juice, non-dairy beverage, and even as a nutritious supplement in my favorite smoothie recipes!

The Chai was not a strong chai, but I did enjoy it nonetheless.  My only wish is that perhaps maybe in the future there would be a Chai version that was a lot stronger.  On their website, they have one amazing recipe that you might want to try out--Oatmeal Chai Breakfast Smoothie!

Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie
My favorite of the three flavors I tried was the Chocolate.  I made a Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie.  After creating this very nutritious smoothie, I rather thought I was having a Protein Milkshake!  I rather enjoyed the chocolate, and can perceive this a product for myself.

Recipe for Chocolate Strawberry Banana Smoothie:

• Two Frozen Bananas
• Handful of Frozen Strawberries
• 1 Cup of Coconut milk
• 1 Packet of Vegan Smart Nutritional Shake "Chocolate"
• 2 tsp of Ground Flaxseed (optional)
• 1/4 cup of water

Directions:

In blender place Vegan Smart Nutritional Shake Mix first, then Coconut Milk, Bananas, and lastly the Strawberries.  As I start to blend I added about a 1/4 cup of water to make it a nice fluid consistency.  You can add as much or less water to make it thick or loosen it up.  

Final Thoughts:

 I found that this product did still have that protein smell and taste after shaking it up or blending it into a smoothie.  Apart from still tasting a bit of the protein, I did find that the flavors were still tasty and delicious.  

My husband and I have been looking for a Soy and Dairy free protein supplement, and I think Naturade has provided something that fits well into our family.  My husband is lactose intolerant and has a milk allergy--this product has a strong appeal to families like ours.  Another way it is perfect is because my sister is Vegan, and I found something we could enjoy together! 

Don't forget to connect with Naturade!

• Twitter: +Naturade 
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Naturade/80018411867
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• Website: www.vegansmartshake.com

Warning: Before taking a dietary supplement, consult a doctor or other health care provider especially if you have a disease or medical condition, take any medications are pregnant, or nursing or planning to have an operation.  Keep out of reach of children.