Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Mackinac Island Blog Tour & Giveaway: Day Two


Mackinac Island. It’s a magical place that allows you to step back in time from the moment you first step off the ferry. Join us this week for a tour of the island, now and then, with authors Cara Putman and Melanie Dobson. Comment at each stop for a chance to win a copy of one of their books set on Mackinac Island. You’ll find the list of stops here. Share the tour on twitter, Facebook, pinterest and other places, and you’ll gain extra entries for the grand prize of a copy of each of their books and a 5 slice box of Murdick’s Fudge, straight from Mackinac Island. Just be sure to email Cara at cara@caraputman.com, so she can record your entries.
Today be sure to visit these stops:

Tuesday
Casey
Herringshaw
Colleen
Coble
Susan
Meissner
Tracey
Bateman
Elizabeth
Luwig

Monday, August 20, 2012

Mackinac Island: Now & Then + Giveaway



Mackinac Island. It’s a magical place that allows you to step back in time from the moment you first step off the ferry. Authors Cara Putman and Melanie Dobson have teamed up for a tour of the island, now and then. Comment at each stop for a chance to win a copy of one of their books set on Mackinac Island. You’ll find the list of stops here. Share the tour on twitter, Facebook, pinterest and other places, and you’ll gain extra entries for the grand prize of a copy of each of their books and a 5 slice box of Murdick’s Fudge, straight from Mackinac Island. Just be sure to email Cara at cara@caraputman.com, so she can record your entries.

Live to Give by Austin Gutwein





Mackinac Island Blog Tour & Giveaway: Day 1


Mackinac Island. It’s a magical place that allows you to step back in time from the moment you first step off the ferry. Join us this week for a tour of the island, now and then, with authors Cara Putman and Melanie Dobson. Comment at each stop for a chance to win a copy of one of their books set on Mackinac Island. You’ll find the list of stops here. Share the tour on twitter, Facebook, pinterest and other places, and you’ll gain extra entries for the grand prize of a copy of each of their books and a 5 slice box of Murdick’s Fudge, straight from Mackinac Island. Just be sure to email Cara at cara@caraputman.com, so she can record your entries.
Today be sure to visit these stops:








Friday, August 17, 2012

Fresh Revelation

One thing I love about coming home is the chance to talk long and deep with my folks and siblings. Our lives usually move so fast, that we don't get as many long phone conversations as we should. As a result, I CHERISH those times that I can ask what they're learning, what God is teaching them. I want to ride their coattails and have my own faith expanded and built.

This week, I've had some deep conversations. With my Dad it revolved around water baptism and the role it plays in our faith. This is an area of passion for Dad because of the freedom it brought him. I love how God continues to reveal nuances and shades of meaning to him on a topic he's studied for years.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Confessions of a worn-out Mom


Do you ever have days where if you uttered one word of advice you’d be a fraud?

I've had several of those recently.

We were a week back from Germany, and I was absolutely-completely-stick-a-fork-in-me done. I took the weekend slow, and then jumped back into all of my activities because that’s what I do…I am after all super mom. But these Wonder Woman bracelets are feeling a wee bit tarnished.

So today I just want to admit…publicly…that being me is exhausting. It’s wearing and I don’t do a good job of taking care of me. And that leads by extension to not doing a good job with all the roles I juggle.

Can anyone relate?

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

How Important is Family?

Shucking Corn with Grandma
This week my kids and I made the trek to Nebraska to visit family. Anytime we make the trip it is a drive with a capital D. It takes 14 hours to get from our home in Indiana to North Platte, Nebraska, where my parents, siblings, and their families live.

To my kids, it's a time of COUSINS. Yep, the all caps is quite intentional. Family is important to me. Very important. And to me, my family includes the extended family. I want my kids to grow up as part of a clan. With the idea that they are a part of a bigger picture. That their identity at part comes from having great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins who all love God and chase after Him.

I long for my children to own their faith, but to also see how they fit into a larger picture of faith. That they are part of a legacy. While that won't substitute for personal faith and relationship with Jesus, it gives a context and heritage for that personal faith.
Driving lessons with Great-Grandpa
But there's also something to having people in your life who cheer for you when you tackle something hard. Who push you when you're being lazy. Who provide an escape when you need it. Who love you no matter where you are or what you've done. People who will set aside days in their schedule to just be with you.

Last night I played board games with my kids, nieces and nephews (that were old enough). They'd tell you I was being silly, but that was intentional. I want them to know they are important to me. And that's often accomplished best by time.

What about you? What's your family like? Is it as crazy and extended as mine? Or is it more intimate?

Thursday, August 09, 2012

Over the Edge Review

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Over The Edge
Bethany House (August 1, 2012)
by
Mary Connealy


Mary is a master of writing historical comedic romance. Over the Edge had me laughing throughout the pages...often catching me unaware by a blast of sarcasm or twist of a word and phrase. I wasn't sure how she could make Seth an appealing hero -- since he's been kind of hapless in prior books -- but I loved him! And Callie, the heroine, is so likeable I rooted for her from her first chapter. This is the third book in a series that tells the story of brothers in Colorado in 1866 -- about the time I wondered how Mary could keep it interesting and fresh, yet she threw in twists that kept the pages absolutely turning. This book has a forgotten wife, an unknown son, an out-of-the-blue brother, and a hint of suspense. Those who have read the first two books will love seeing everything wrap up...but I have to admit, I'd love just a few more pages with these characters. They feel like family!

Wednesday, August 08, 2012

Tidewater Inn: Review


My daughter received an ARC of Tidewater Inn and refused to let me touch it until she'd finished it. Now Colleen is one of her favorite authors -- as she's long been one of my favorites. Tidewater Inn is Colleen's first book set on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The setting plays a strong role in this book -- I can't imagine the story taking place anywhere else. 
Libby inherits a hotel from a father she thought died years earlier. The problem is her friend has disappeared and now the cops are looking at her. A Coast Guard lieutenant tries to find her friend, but isn't sure what to think about Libby. The plot twists and turns through a hurricane and the race to fine her missing friend. Through in love, sibling rivalry and the decision whether she can keep the inn keep the plot moving. This is a cast and locale that I loved and can't wait to return in another book. Please?!? 
With over thirty-five 5 Star reviews, Tidewater Inn is sure to be a favorite. 
Karen White, New York Times bestselling author had this to say about Colleen's new release, "Tidewater Inn is a story as hot and sultry as its Outer Banks setting. Old architecture, a missing woman, a sudden inheritance, and a great mystery with unexpected twists make this a hard-to-put-down book. The characters' faith and their relationships aren't eclipsed by the riveting plot, but instead complement each other to make this a fun and compelling read."

Monday, August 06, 2012

For the Romantic Suspense Lovers Among Us


As y'all know I've been a reading fiend since I got home. The ability to read books without relying on digital is WONDERFUL. For those of you who like suspense and romantic suspense, here are three books you should consider adding to your reading list.



Irene Hannon is an author that when her books arrive at my house, I don't do anything else until I've started (and usually finished) the book. Her books have character I love in jobs I found fascinating. Lethal Legacy is no exception.

 In Lethal Legacy, Kelly Warren is determined that her father did not commit suicide. By a twist of bad timing Cole Taylor is the detective who meets with her when she finds new evidence. The more they talk he wonders if she's on to something. Then she has an accident due to a food allergy. From there the action picks up to full speed. This story not only lets us into the hero and heroine's heads. We also get glimpses into a couple of the bad guys.

This is a book that will keep you up as you try to read just one more page in the race to find the truth, catch the bad guy, and just maybe fall in love along the way.

Friday, August 03, 2012

Top 5 Back-to-School Deals for This Weekend (August 3-5, 2012)

If you're like me, back-to-school shopping can get pricey -- and I homeschool! Here are some tips for this weekend only from Crystal Paine, The Money Saving Mom.



Kid's Jeans for $9 Shipped From Old Navy: Old Navy has all their Kid's Famous Jeans on sale for $10through August 15, 2012. This sale is both in-store and online. 

If you are planning on purchasing multiple pairs, you can sign up for Old Navy emails to get a $10 off $50 coupon. Plus, shipping is free on orders over $50. So you could potentially get five pairs of jeans for just $9 shipped each. 

Kid's Jeans for as Low as $8 Shipped from The Children's Place: The Children's Place is offering free shipping on all denim orders, no minimum. Plus, you can use coupon code E6H76QDP82 to get an additional 20% off your order. They have jeans priced at $10, making them just $8 per pair shipped after this coupon code. 

Crayola Crayons for $0.25 at Toys "R" Us: Through Saturday (August 5, 2012), Toys "R" Us has Crayola Crayons on sale 4 for $1. You must purchase in quantities of 4 to get this price. You can price-match at Walmart, if that's more convenient for you. These make a fantastic addition to Operation Christmas Child boxes. 

Backpacks for $0.01 After MaxPerks Rewards at Office Max: Use your MaxPerks card to purchase a backpack or messenger bag from OfficMax and you'll get 100% back in MaxPerks Rewards minus $0.01. For example, if you purchase a backpack for $39.99 out of pocket, you'll $39.98 back in MaxPerks Bonus Rewards via an email coupon within 90 days. You can use this email coupon like a gift card to purchase anything at Office Max. This offer is good through Saturday, August 4, 2012. 

Get In Free Weekend at Sam's Club: Non-members can stop by Sam's Club this weekend (August 3-5, 2012) for their Get In Free Weekend. Non-members are able to enjoy the same prices as members during this special weekend, no coupon is required. Sam's Club often has great deals on bulk office and school supplies, as well as bargains on electronics. 

Crystal Paine is a wife, mom of three, author of The Money Saving Mom®'s Budget. Visit her blog, MoneySavingMom.com, for the best back-to-school deals and for practical ideas and inspiration to get your li

What Makes a Job Great

Watching the Olympics got me thinking about my favorite job in college. Back during the 1992 Olympics I worked for the smallest NBC affiliate. It was a great job for someone who loved journalism and thought that was where her future lay (there's a reason my first contemporary  heroine was a tv reporter). That was an amazing time to work at a tv station...especially for an Olympics junkie. The sports director would ask me for the updates on what wads happening, who was competing, how it ll fit together. Perfect for me! I wish I could do that every Olympics!

That got me thinking about work. Our lives are filled with work. That is a good thing. But what makes a job wonderful? Something you can't wait to do?

Wednesday, August 01, 2012

Me? A Swagger Wagon Mama?

I honestly never thought this day would come. I put it off until my oldest got too tall to climb into the backseat of our Chrysler Pacifica. I LOVED that vehicle. I put off this day until I got tired of not being able to take other kids with us to events. Until I got tired of paying for rental minivans so we could fit all of us and luggage in the vehicle to drive somewhere. So in honor of all moms who drive "swagger wagons", here's the Toyota video. I guess I'm one now, too.


Monday, July 30, 2012

Where's Cara? Mackinac Island


 This weekend my family made the drive to Mackinac Island. We made the trip so that I could sign A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island at the Island Bookstore.

The last time we visited the island, it was so I could do some research for A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island. That time, while my family visited the Fort, I spent time with the police chief. My kids were just grateful he didn't throw me in jail for asking the questions I did!
I absolutely love the island. It is a place that the moment we step on the ferry to transport us across the lake, I begin to relax. And then we arrive! It's truly like stepping back in time. Quaint. Slow-paced. Relaxing. Love it!

Can you name the long building?
After returning, it's easy to remember the charm of Mackinac Island and why I set a book there. Look for more photos later this week. But until then, where do you like to get away? Is there a place that is a peaceful escape?


My oldest posed this photo :-)



Friday, July 27, 2012

Return to Mackinac Island with Love Finds You on Mackinac Island


Today I'm headed to Mackinac Island for a booksigning Saturday. This week, in anticipation of returning to the island, I read Melanie Dobson's historical Love Finds You on Mackinac Island. I loved stepping onto the island as it existed in 1894, a nice dovetail to my contemporary A Wedding Transpires on Mackinac Island.
Elena Bissette is playing on the stage of the Gilded Age. She knows she has to marry someone wealthy enough to save her family from a destitute future. But all she longs for is to marry someone who will love her for who she really is, not who society demands she pretend to be. On the island she has a sanctuary that is invaded by a man who seems to love everything she does. The question is can he love her and if he does can she marry him at her family's jeopardy? Chester Darrington is the most sought after bachelor on the island, but he has no interest in another society girl. All he cares about are the inventions he might be able to sell to the masses. When they collide can they dig past the misunderstandings and find love? 
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of being true to ourselves while balancing that with playing the roles expected of us. Melanie describes the Island in beautiful detail, transporting the reader to its peaceful borders.  The characters left me longing for just a few more pages with them. It was a beautiful story that will join my keeper collection of books. 

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Rare Earth Review




This week, the
 
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
 
is introducing
 
Rare Earth
 
Bethany House Publishers (July 1, 2012)
 
by
 
Davis Bunn


As I showed y'all last week, this was one of the books waiting for me when we returned from Germany. It also quickly climbed to the top of the stack because I'd read the first book, Lion of Babylon, and remembered it being a book I couldn't put down. This one quickly followed with pacing that slowly built to a pace that I literally couldn't put down. Mark Royce is back as the reluctant hero who wants to improve the world. He has the skills to go into situations no one else would want. And he is a hero that reminds me of David in the Bible: a heart for God, few assets, and a scraggly group.  Can they do what it takes? There is also the hint of a romantic thread, too. This book is great for those who love an international thriller...and it will give you a heart for the African people as you read. I loved it and can't wait for the next installment!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:


Born and raised in North Carolina, Davis left for Europe at age twenty. There he first completed graduate studies in economics and finance, then began a business career that took him to over forty countries in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia.


Davis came to faith at age 28, while living in Germany and running an international business advisory group. He started writing two weeks later. Since that moment, writing has remained both a passion and a calling.

Davis wrote for nine years and completed seven books before his first was accepted for publication. During that time, he continued to work full-time in his business career, travelling to two and sometimes three countries every week. His first published book, The Presence, was released in 1990 and became a national bestseller.

Honored with three Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, his bestsellers include The Great Divide, Winner Take All, The Meeting Place, The Warning, The Book of Hours, and The Quilt.

A sought-after speaker in the art of writing, Davis serves as Writer In Residence at Regent’s Park College, Oxford University.  

ABOUT THE BOOK


Marc Royce stares out of the helicopter, a sense of foreboding rising with the volcanic cloud. Below, the Rift Valley slashes across Africa like a scar. Decades of conflicts, droughts, and natural disasters have left their mark.


Dispatched to audit a relief organization, Royce is thrust into the squalor and chaos of Kenyan refugee camps. But his true mission focuses on the area's reserves of once-obscure minerals now indispensable to high-tech industries. These strategic elements--called rare earth--have inflamed tensions on the world's stage and stoked tribal rivalries. As Royce prepares to report back to Washington, he seizes on a bold and risky venture for restoring justice to this troubled land.

But this time, Royce may have gone too far.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Rare Earth, go HERE.

Monday, July 23, 2012

A Glimpse into Where I Create

Here's a glance into the area where I work when I'm writing -- and not hanging out at Panera. Believe it or not, for someone who craves clean, organized space, this is about as good as it gets for my desk. Between ACFW, writing, homeschool co-op and teaching, I have a lot of projects to juggle in a small space. Last week I collected a large diaper box of books to take to our church library. I should have taken before photos to show what a difference that made. Ah well!

Friday, July 20, 2012

Book Explosion at the Putmans & Giveaway


It's the end of the week and I'm still coming off jet lag so I thought it was time for one more fun post.
Here are the first three books I read.

When we got back from Germany, here is one category of things that waited for me. I was like a kid at Christmas! (And you cannot imagine how many books I said no to!) Needless to say, I've been reading like crazy since I got home. It feels soooo good to read a real, physical, pages-in-my-hand book rather than on my iPad.
Now I'm reading Rare Earth and the Mackinac Island book is next.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Pleased to Present the Carol Award Finalists for Christian fiction


So excited to bring you this list of Carol Award finalists. I won a long time ago in short historical... and it is always fun to see who makes the list each year. If you're looking for a summer reading list, here you go. The ones I've read (about half) are fantastic!
ACFW Carol Awards
Winners will be announced during ACFW’s annual conference gala in September in Dallas.
Debut Novel:
Fairer Than Morning  by Rosslyn Elliott (Thomas Nelson – Ami McConnell, Editor)
The Loom by Shella Gillus (Guideposts – Beth Adams, Editor)
Give the Lady a Ride by Linda W. Yezak (Sky Sail [Port Yonder Press] – Chila Woychik, Editor)

Monday, July 16, 2012

Few more photos...Humor me?

As I write this, I have photos on the brain. Since our trip to Germany was a once in a lifetime, I got a new camera. As a result, I have 1800 photos I'm sorting, tagging, and getting ready to do something with. That doesn't count the ones my husband and kids took. So here are a few. While we're at it, anyone have tips on sorting photos? 

Boom! Bang! Firepower!
My kiddos

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