Saturday, November 20, 2010

Udderly Smooth Product Review & Giveaway

I've said this before, but I'll reiterate. I hate dry skin! It's itchy, it's rough and the cold weather always seems to bring it on.  It's already begun so I've been slathering myself religiously with lotion twice a day.  I don't like greasy lotions or harsh scents.  Thankfully, I found Udderly Smooth.  Do you know they developed this moisturizer for use on dairy cows? It was developed in Ohio to use on the cows during harsh conditions.  I'm from Indiana, so I know our winters can be rough. 

I tried a variety of products from Udderly Smooth: Moisturing Lotion, Body Cream, Udder Cream (?), and Shea Butter Foot Cream.  I have to say the foot cream was my favorite just because I asked hubby nicely to use it while massaging my feet.  Bliss!! Plus, I really liked the scent.  My feet are so smooth too.

I'm using the moisturing lotion on my chapped elbows and they seem to be healing nicely.  This lotion is not greasy at all at it has a nice fresh scent that is very appealing.  I find the cow black and white spots - very quirky and it labels the product easily.

Product uses also include:


* Dry and chapped skin


* As a shaving lotion


* Diabetes skin care


* Hand and Foot Syndrome- a side effect of chemotherapy drugs


* Chamois cream for bicyclists


* Needlework and quilting

One of the best aspects of this lotion that I immediately picked up on and just love is that is is MADE IN THE USA!!! That is a big plus in my book.  BIG! Keepin' it real here. 

Thanks to the great folks at Udderly Smooth, one of you is going to win your own assortment prize pack! Woohoo!! You will love this!!

All entries must be in a separate comment.  No bonus entries will count unless mandatory completed.

MANDATORY ENTRY
Go to Udderly Smooth and tell me which product you'd like to try

BONUS ENTRIES
Follow Udderly Smooth on Twitter
Like Udderly Smooth on Facebook
FB or Blog about this - 3 entries (leave link)
Tweet 2x daily - Leave Links
Enter any other current Minding Spot Contest - 1 entry per contest
Like Minding Spot on Twitter, FB, Networked Blogs, GFC, or Email (1 entry each)

USA only
Winner will be announced on December 4th using randomizer.org.  Prize will be shipped directly from sponsor.



I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

Don't Sweat the Small Stuff by Don Bruns

James Lessor and Skip Moore just received their PI licenses from the department of Agriculture (Don't ask, it's Florida).  The problem being, that until their new business gets off of the ground, they got bills to pay and beer that needs bought.  So, James takes a job with a travelling carnival show to get them by, just until their new investigation business picks up.

Now, Skip saw the article where a woman fell to her death from one fo the rides months ago, but just forgot to tell James about it.  So when they realize that there has been quite a few "accident's" at the carnival, and they get hired to investigate, Skip and James figure this is their big break.

You have to realize that James and Skip aren't the brightest crayons in the box, but the repartee' between the two will have you rolling in stitches.  Watching James stake-out a dwarf zoo operator is very entertaining to say the least of their antics in the fun house. Things begin to heat up for Skip and James, not to mention the would-be girlfriends, and even though they bumble along in their own way, they do manage to unveil a few things.  But it wont' do any good if they can't get out with their lives.

The characters of Skip and James are very likable, entertaining, and are smarter than they appear.  The backdrop of the carnival for their investigation is treacherous, yet fun.  Toss in some spy toys from of their friends and you have pure fun reading of what they will do next.  High praise from this reader for Don't Sweat The Small Stuff.  I really look forward to seeing what Skip and James get into next!

Friday, November 19, 2010

The Imperial Cruise by James Bradley Giveaway


On the success of his two bestselling books about World War II, James Bradley began to wonder what the real catalyst was for the Pacific War.  What he discovered shocked him.


In 1905 President Teddy Roosevelt dispatched Secretary of War William Taft, his daughter Alice, and a gaggle of congressmen on a mission to Japan, the Philippines, China, and Korea with the intent of forging an agreement to divide up Asia. This clandestine pact lit the fuse that would-decades later-result in a number of devastating wars: WWII, the Korean War, and the communist revolution in China.

In 2005, James Bradley retraced that epic voyage and discovered the remarkable truth about America's vast imperial past. Full of fascinating characters brought brilliantly to life, The Imperial Cruise will powerfully revise the way we understand U.S. history.

This is a fascinating account at history you didn't know about.  The pictures alone tell a thousand words.  Mr. Bradley writes in a seamless fashion keeping the reader enthralled as the pages seem to disappear.  The story is captivating, yet shocking.  Historians will devour this one!


Thanks to Hatchette Books, I have three (3) copies to give away!!


USA and Canada Only.  No PO Boxes.
Comments are appreciated, but will not count for entry.
All entrants must fill out the form.

BONUS ENTRY
Follow Minding Spot on Networked Blogs

Contest will close on November 30, with winners being selected by randomizer.org on December 1st.  Winners will have 48 hours to claim prize and prize will be shipped direct from sponsor.




Solid by Shelley Workinger


Eighteen years ago, a scientist slash doctor played with dna with pregnant women at multiple militiary bases.  After he died, his secret was thought to have died with him.  But now, years later, the military has an open book policy and some of the information have been revealed.  The military wants to make it right, and to see what, if any, abilities these kids may have garnered or if it disabled them in any way.

They have the kids come to a super secure military base, to see what they can do, and so the kids can find out what the results are of their altered genetics.  They are all seventeen, and Clio Kaid makes friends right away. All in all, there is a new found friendship with five of them, and they have different abilities - super human abilities.  Some have amazing athletic ability, some can shine so bright, to blind someone, and some can turn invisible, and much more.

But although the camp seems nice, something isn't sitting right with the kids.  Why would the military do this for them and not want something out of it? They investigate, and the answer is surprising.

This science fiction young adult novel is the first in a new series.  We meet the teens and they act just like your everyday average teenager.  Toss in a hint of romance, a splash of mystery, and the super hero powers that they are just coming into, and you have yourself an entertaining, and page turning read.  No sex and no swearing, so even the younger tweens may enjoy this one.  It may be the first in the series, but Ms. Workinger treats us right with a nice ending -- no irritating cliffhanger here!

Skillet Bacon Jam review


Skillet Bacon Jam - bet your saying wait... what? I did a double take too when I saw the name on this condiment. 

What is Skillet Bacon Jam?
we make this bacon spread condiment called bacon jam..you say what?.. that’s right, we use niman ranch bacon and render it down along with onions, balsamic and other spices . It cooks for several hours until it is a perfect blend of smoky, tangy, savory and slightly sweet….basically spreadable bacony goodness! USDA approved.


When I first received the jar, I quickly opened it expecting the smokey flavor of bacon.  I love bacon, I love the smell of bacon, but this jar wasn't just bacon.  Sure I smelled some bacon, but it mingled (nicely I might add) with the other flavors in the condiment.  Ok, so it smells good, now what to try it on?

I decided to heat up the bacon spread and try it on my baked potato.  Let me tell you that this was pure heaven.  The flavors bursts on my tongue, mingling together into delight.  It's a bit sweet, smoky, and I really enjoyed it.  Now, my kids wouldn't go near it just because it doesn't look right.  It looks like shredded bacon with some stuff in it.  But gosh it's good!  This would be a wonderful addition to your holiday dishes, or anytime really.  Live a little and go out of your comfort zone and try skillet bacon jam!!

More information is available at www.skilletbaconjam.com or contact eat@skilletstreetfood.com



I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Devotional Journal Winner

Thanks to Hatchette Books for sponsoring this giveaway! Winner is selected by randomizer.org and the prize is shipped directly from the sponsor. Winner has 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.

Kara Sce.... CONFIRMED

CONGRATULATIONS!!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Old El Paso Family Taco Night with Giveaway!

Recently, I had the opportunity to review Old El Paso Family Taco Night from MyBlogSpark.  I was thrilled to be included because my family loves tacos!!  We're always trying to be creative with taco night, it seems we always end up with soft shell/hard shell or just toss it all together for a taco salad. 

It's great fun though, the whole family helps prepare when we have tacos, which to be honest, doesn't happen very often in my family.  I love the chat, the humor, and the great food.  We decided to try something a bit different this time, something out of our comfort zone.  We decided to make  chicken ranch tacos. Oh my goodness, they were sooo good!!

Old El Paso offers so much more than taco shells and seasoning in their product line.  They also offer chilies, dinner kits, dips and sides, enchilada sauce, refried beans,  taco sauces and salsas.  We always get medium and no chilies, but some like it hot and will appreciate that!!

Print a coupon for $0.60 off two Old El Paso products.



We love Family Taco Night, it is so versatile and gets the whole family involved. Messy is good ! At least in this instance.  The clean up was minimum though, not alot of pots and pans to wash, which I love!! 
Want to have your own fun Family Taco Night with Old El Paso?

One Lucky Minding Spot Reader will win this wonderful prize pack!! This prize includes a packet of Old El Paso Taco Seasoning, a Cactus Chip & Dip Serving dish, a set of 3 Fiesta Chili Pepper serving dishes and a $10 gift card to purchase your taco fixings.





All entries must be in a separate comment.  Please leave your email so I can contact you if you win. Bonus entries will not count until Mandatory entry is complete.

MANDATORY ENTRY
What are your favorite Taco Fixings?

BONUS ENTRIES
Follow Minding Spot on GFC
Like Minding Spot on Facebook
Subscribe to Minding Spot via Email
Enter any other current Minding Spot contest - One entry per contest.
Tweet this contest 2x Daily - leave link
Blog or Facebook about this contest for 2 extra entries - Leave link

 

USA only

Contest will close December 2, with winner selected by randomizer.org.  Prize will be shipped direct from the sponsor.

  All opinions and thoughts are expressly my own. The coupon, information, and prize package for giveaway were all provided by Old El Paso through MyBlogSpark.




Book Bloggers Holiday Bash 2010 Still Looking for More Participants!!

All participants need to apply by November 30. Contest will run from December 5th-15th, with winners being picked/announced by the 16th and prizes being shipped out, hopefully in time for Christmas.

MAKE SURE YOU SIGN UP ON THE LINKY AND THE FORM ON THE HOST BLOG SITE.

Please add your blog information to the Linky tool below being sure to add US or International next to your blog name, as well as what genre your blog serves, for example: Soap Box in My Mind (US/eclectic)(HOST). When using Twitter, please use the hashtag #holidaybash so we can all see what everyone is doing. Please contact me with your email address and twitter ID via the form below for me to send out announcements and the code for the hop list as soon as everyone is signed up. FORM IS HERE


Ruth's Brownie Kitchen Black Friday Sale!!!

Ruth's Brownie Kitchen Black Friday Sale starts today!!

     25% Off on ALL purchases (no minimum) + Free Shipping (on all purchases of $50 or more)
through the end of the year!!  

These are yummy for yourself or excellent for gift giving!!

Don't forget to enter my contest for a $25 Gift Certificate to Ruth's Brownies!
Enter HERE.  Ends 11/22



Myachi Winner

Thanks to Myachi for sponsoring this giveaway! Winner has 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.

The Carrolls - CONFIRMED

Congratulations!!

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

How Music Works Winners

Thanks to Hatchette Book Group for sponsoring this contest! Winners have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.

mrsshukra  del ..  @ ya..CONFIRMED
Tina   mel ... @ gm .. CONFIRMED
Cheryl F  blo .. @ th... CONFIRMED

Congratulations!!

Gratitude Giveaways Hop!


Gratitude Giveaways - Blog Follower Appreciation Hop - A way to say thank you for being a blog follower!

Since this giveaway is being held around Thanksgiving, which is a busy time for many, we want to give you plenty of time to enter all the giveaways.

This Hop runs WEDNESDAY, November 17th to SUNDAY, November 28th. 

Each of the 180+ blogs listed below is hosting their own giveaway. Hopefully you can find time during the 12 days this hop runs to visit each blog and enter each giveaway.

Minding Spot has two contests!!! Please make sure you fill out the correct/or both forms!!

CONTEST 1
INTERNATIONAL


I'm offering one winner their choice of a paperback book cover from HideaBook on etsy, up to $12.  Her site says she ships anywhere, so it's open international!!

Fill out the form to enter!
+1 GFC Follower
+ 1 Email Subscriber

CONTEST 2
USA ONLY






2 ARCS to one winner!
Fill out the form to enter
+1 GFC Follower
+1 Email Subscriber


Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Waiting on Wednesday


Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.  It is where we share what un-released books we are eagerly anticipating.

My choice this week is:  The Piper's Son by Melina Marchetta
Release Date: March 8, 2011
From Amazon: award-winning author Melina Marchetta reopens the story of the group of friends from her acclaimed novel Saving Francesca - but five years have passed, and now it’s Thomas Mackee who needs saving. After his favorite uncle was blown to bits on his way to work in a foreign city, Tom watched his family implode. He quit school and turned his back on his music and everyone that mattered, including the girl he can’t forget. Shooting for oblivion, he’s hit rock bottom, forced to live with his single, pregnant aunt, work at the Union pub with his former friends, and reckon with his grieving, alcoholic father. Tom’s in no shape to mend what’s broken. But what if no one else is either? An unflinching look at family, forgiveness, and the fierce inner workings of love and friendship, The Piper’s Son redefines what it means to go home again.
What are YOU waiting for?

Monday, November 15, 2010

Interview with Author David Burton and a Giveaway

I recently had the opportunity to interview David Burton, author of Blood Justice that I reviewed the other day.  Thanks David for taking time out to visit us today!!

Me: Where did you get the idea of mixing a revenge/thriller book with paranormal elements?

David: The idea of someone dying for the first time came unbidden out of the ether. As a writer you immediately assume that if there is a first time dying, then there has to be at least a second time dying. Then you start asking, Why? and What if? If the first death is metaphorical, then what caused it? The idea of violent death or murder came quickly, leading right to Revenge. The idea of dying a second time and waking up a vampire wasn’t far behind. Then comes the fun part, when fireworks shoot out of your eyes and smoke spouts from your ears and you walk around with a huge grin and saying, “Yes. Yes.” and “That’d be so cool!” figuring out the how, when, and by who (or is it whom?)



Me:  Justine is a very strong character. Did you base her character from anyone in particular?
 
David: The short answer is no. Most of the women in my life have been strong women, but Justine isn't based on any one. When I wrote my second novel (Fear Killer, now only available as an e-book at Smashwords.com) I was tired of it always being women who were slaughtered by male serial killers, (it’s a wonder there are any pretty young women left!) so I though it was time for equal opportunity in the serial killer business. That idea has carried through into other stories. Ladies, you don’t have to go as far as Emily in Fear Killer, but these days you don’t have to take any crap from men, so don’t.



Me: I love the characters of Teresa and Harry. If you could put them in a movie, what celebrity would star as them?
 
David: This is a tough one. For Teresa the only actress I can think of off hand is Lauren Velez who plays Lt. LaGuerta on Dexter. Though I’d take a call from J.Lo, any day.
 
For Harry, how about a serious and disheveled Matthew Broderick? Or Misha Collins, Castiel from Supernatural? Only taller. Of course, if Brad Pitt or Johnny Depp or Tom Cruise are interested, the film rights are available. Call me.


Me: The vampires in this story are very  scary, yet Simone seems to have some human traits. What persuaded you to give that to her and not the others?
 
David:  Simone isn't as nasty as other vampires because she's an accidental vampire. She woke up in 1650 a vampire with no clue what to do. She had no one to indoctrinate or corrupt her. She had to learn on her own, and being basically a good person before she died, she quickly learned that if she helped others, mortal or otherwise, they would help her.
 
At some point I'd like to write her biography. You can read an expanded story of her first weeks, An Accidental Vampire, at my occasional blog, http://davidburtonwriting.wordpress.com/.
Of course that’s not to say she won’t do what has to be done to protect herself, her friends and her Young Bloods, of which Justine is one of few.

Me: Are you working on another novel? If so, can you tell us a bit about it?
 
David: I’m working on the sequel to Blood Justice, tentatively titled Blood on the Water. It continues the story a few days after Blood Justice ends, as Justine, Simone and Teresa go in search of Antonia.


I also have the beginning of another slightly supernatural novel, Ancient Mariners, which is the novelization of an as yet unsold screenplay of the same name. It’s a coming of age story of another strong woman, in this case 15-18 years old, in which Death in the form of an Albatross plays a part.

It was a toss up which one to write, but I’m a believer in working on one project at a time. Although, if anybody out there is legitimately interested in the script, I could be persuaded to switch.


If any of you live  around San Diego - Encinitas, CA David will be at the Encinitas Fall Street Fair on Nov 21. The Read Local San Diego booth, 9-11:30 am

 
http://bylightunseenmedia.com/bj.htm -- is my page on the By Light Unseen Media's website. It has links to all the places Blood Justice is available.


http://davidburtonwriting.wordpress.com -- Is my occasional What If? blog with a few story ideas for writers.


www.smashwords.com/profile/view/davidburton -- Several novels available only as e-books.

David has graciously offered one of you an autographed copy of his book, Blood Justice! I'm telling you, you are in for a real treat!!

USA and Canada Only.

Leave a comment with your email to enter. 
Leave another comment for David for an extra entry.
Blog, FB or Tweet about this for one more entry (leave link)
3 Entries Maximum

Winner will be selected by random.org on November 29th.


Instant Holiday Glam! Bright Red Flower Fashion Ring

I recently had the opportunity to review a product from FantasyJewelryBox.com, and I have to say I am very impressed.  I received the Maisey's Chunky Red Crystal Flower Fashion Ring.


When I saw this ring, I just had to have it! Isn't it just gorgeous?  I received it very quickly and I immediately put in on.  The band is gold links and is adjustable, so it fits any finger.  The cut and workmanship is astonishing, and if you didn't know any better, you would swear they were real gems!! Faceted settings, a gold finish, inlaid setting, and the stones are high, quality crystal.  It was a bit heavy for my hand when I first put it on, but that is because I'm not used to wearing anything but my wedding rings.  Believe me, I got used to it quickly; I wasn't taking it off!

It's flirty, it's fun and its flashy! I'm going to wear it to all my holiday parties!!!

FantasyJewelryBox carries more than just fun jewelry, they also carry sterling silver necklaces, or cheap wedding rings, (Not everyone can afford a 2carat diamond) but you can look like you can!! 

They offer free earrings with every order over $50 and free shipping on any order over $75.  They are very reasonably priced - you'll be surprised at their prices and the quality of their jewelry!!

You can also check FantasyJewelryBox out on Facebook!!

This is the perfect time of year to get yourself something special, or do some holiday shopping!!



[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."]

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Late Entry - Fall Gratitude Follower Hop Information

Gratitude Giveaways - Blog Follower Appreciation Hop - A way to say thank you for being a blog follower!





Wanted to give you a heads up about this fabulous hop!! I'm a late entry, but Minding Spot will be participating and I have a few nice book geared prizes:)

There are over 175 Blogs Participating, so you'll want to make sure to set some time aside and check out alot of blogs and enter for some really cool books and whatnot. 

Gratitude Giveaways will begin on Wednesday, November 17th and end on Sunday, November 28th.



I'll have my contest ready to go live right at Midnight on the 16th!! Let's have some fun this week :)
 

Confessions of a Trauma Junkie Winner

Winner has 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.  The randomized winner of Confessions of a Trauma Junkie is

Linda K - CONFIRMED

Congratulations!!

Blood Justice by David Burton


Justine Kroft dies the night her daughter is brutally kidnapped, raped and murdered.  At least on the inside.  Nothing else matters but seeking justice on the men who performed this unspeakable act against her beautiful daughter Brittany.

She begins to investigate herself since it seems the police aren't doing a thorough job of it and encounters one of the men.  But Justine soon realizes that she isn't strong enough to kill him and is about to meet her maker, when a 350 year old vampire, Simone Gireaux, saves her life.

Justine has nothing to live for.  Sure, she is attracted to Detective Harry Frazer and she only has one friend, Teresa Diaz, but she cannot go on with her life until Brit's murder is avenged.  She asks Simone to change her into a vampire, so that she can have the strength and the speed to kill the men who seem to be superhuman.

Teresa's daughter vanished a few months ago, and the story out is that many young girls have disappeared over the past few years.  Coincidence? Justine may have a new hunger in her immortal life and not just seeking justice, but will it be enough? The men who were involved with Brit's death are just the icing on the cake, the real killer is Stephan Sinakov, a Master Vampire of the Sinakov Family and he is very powerful. He will do what it takes to remove Justine from thwarting his plans, even if it means the lives of Teresa and Harry. 

Blood Justice is not your average vampire novel, but so much more.  Vampires, not your cutesy and romance kind either, but dark, evil, bloodthirsty monsters, that have no conscience or compassion for humans.  Justine is a very strong character and you feel for her loss and rejoice for her as she finds her way in her new world.  Teresa is a perfect bff, compassionate and supporting, and then there is Harry, who has been in love with Justine for years, who wants to run her in to the authorities on one hand, but on the other, wants her to seek peace and love.  Thoroughly entertaining, page-turning, top-notch character development, and scary as hell.  I would love to see a sequel with these characters as Justine goes after her mother's murderer! David Burton is a terrific writer - well recommended reading!