You can now find milk on the shelf.

Within the last year or so I remember hearing about shelf safe milk. I remember thinking how can milk be safe left on a shelf and had this conversation with my husband. We went online to see what we could find out about this. One thing we noticed right away was that shelf safe milk has been around since the 1960's but Canada has been a late adopter in UHT milk. Shelf safe is made with Ultra High Temperature. This infograph explains the difference between traditional and shelf safe and check out the video below.

This milk also has all the nutrients of regular milk with 8 grams of protein and 9 essentials nutrients -  calcuim, vitamin A, D,B12, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, riboflavin, niacin and zinc – nearly half of the daily recommended vitamins intake in a 250ml Tetra Pak!

Milk in these Tetra Paks retain their quality for six months on the shelf, just make sure to check the best before date when buying to know how long it will last on your shelf at home. Once open you need to drink/use it up within 7-10 days and it needs to be refrigerated.

One thing I love about the Tetra Pak milk is that you can freeze them the night before and then pop it in a lunch box to keep food cool and it will be ready for the kids to enjoy at lunch. Even if you don't freeze you can have the peice of mind that the milk you pack in the morning will still be good at lunch especially in the spring and summer months. These are great for camp as you know your kids need the milk but their lunches sit around in the heat until they are ready to eat them.

I also love to have one or two on my shelf in case we run out of milk. It doesn't usually happen much but before having the shelf safe milk I have missed out on a morning coffee after the kids hit up the milk first for their breakfast.
The video below explains the process of how milk is made to be safe on the shelf in a super simple way.
You can find shelf safe Tetra Pak milk in Canada, check out the Where to Buy locator to find a store near you.

Follow @MilkUnleashed and join in on the conversation with the hashtag #milkunleashed

Have you tried shelf safe milk? 

~*Disclaimer: This blog post is part of a paid SocialMoms and Milk Unleashed blogging program. The opinions and ideas expressed here are my own.*~

Read More

Traveling to the USA with Roam Mobility

Are you traveling from Canada to the USA? As I geared up for BlogHer '13 I was super paranoid about going with my cell phone and coming home with a HUGE cell bill. I couldn't attend a Social Media conference without a cell phone though but at the same time I didn't know what to do. I know my cell carrier offers plans but I have heard many of horror stories from my fellow Canadian bloggers heading over the border and coming home to a $1000 + cell bill.

I headed over to tweeter to tweet my questions to my cell carrier and received a tweet from @RoamMobility about their USA calling plans. The prepaid plans sounded just like what I needed and would give me the piece of mind that I was looking for while away at BlogHer.

Roam Mobility is a Canada company that is located in Vancouver BC. They offer prepaid cell plans for traveling in the USA. If you are looking for Unlimited Talk & Text to USA & Canada you will be super happy with Roam Mobility. They also have great data plans you can add on also. You can choose data plans from 100MB to 3GB!

The Talk, Text and Data plans start as low as $3.95! This is great if you will be heading into the USA for a day of shopping. I had plenty of data with the 700MB plan (7 day) which costs $27.95. Compared at my carriers plan of $50 where I would get 50 mins of US roaming talk, 50 US roaming MB, 200 US roaming text and unlimited incoming text.

How does Roam Mobility work? You will need your current cell phone unlocked, then purchase a reusable SIM card from Roam Mobility which is $19.95. Go to Roam Mobility website and order the prepaid plan you will need. Don't worry if you run out as you can top up on the go. It is super simple to set up the data on your phone by following the instructions on their website or in the SIM package. You will need to use your SIM card once a year to keep it active but if you travel often this wont be a big deal.

Don't need a data plan? You can also just order a Talk & Text package to use with the SIM card or you can order a Breeze phone for $49.95 that comes with a SIM and can get a plan for $2.95 (1 day).

Just need data - order the Hotspot and add a data plan when you will be traveling.  

The best part of the whole thing? The piece of mind and the low price! I love how quick it is to set up. You can visit your account and schedule your plan to start the day you will be leaving. If you need to make changes it is super simple to adjust. When I crossed the USA border all I did was turn on my phone and I could begin using my plan. It was great to be able to keep my family in the loop to how I was and find out how they were doing while I was away. It was also great to text friends that live in the USA and were at the conference also. I was connected. I can't believe I went last year without a phone and had a super hard time getting connected to the wifi. I felt totally lost for the 3 days I was away. This time around I was super connected and didn't have to feel restricted with talk, text or data. Never had to watch the time or how many texts I sent. I felt horrible watching other Canadian bloggers having big problems with their cell phone carrier plans. Thank you Roam Mobility you made my trip and eased my mind!

Next time you are about to travel to the USA head over to Roam Mobility and get connected. You can follow Roam Mobility on Twitter and Facebook.


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn on behalf of Roam Mobility. I received a cellular plan to review while away at BlogHer '13. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Breaking Josephine by Marie Stewart - Book Review

At 22, Josephine Sinclair thought she’d finally closed the door on her past and was moving on with her life. With a stable job as a waitress, a small apartment in town, and scenic Cannon Beach a two-mile jog to the west, she was getting by. In a mansion on the beach, Dex Hartley felt just the opposite. After years of living the fast life in New York and L.A., he’d come home to bury himself in the ghosts of his past and his grief. When an old obsession comes back to life, Josephine finds herself face-to-face with Dex, turning her ordinary world upside down and igniting a burning desire in them both they can’t deny. As Jo opens herself up to Dex, his passion, and his body, she unearths a lifetime of lies and deception that threaten to destroy the normal life she’s managed to start. As her hard-earned life collapses around her, will the truth break her or set her free?

Purchase: Amazon 

About the Author:

Although a long-time native of Northern California, Marie currently resides in steamy Atlanta, Georgia with her college-sweetheart-turned-husband and their three daughters. A recovering lawyer, Marie recently stepped off the legal train to write fiction full-time. While her clients miss her, she couldn’t be happier. When she’s not writing, she’s spending time with her family and sweating her way through the hot Georgia summer.

Follow: website, Goodreads, Facebook

Excerpt:

I looked up at his face and his rugged beauty set my heart fluttering in my chest like a caged bird. His eyes poured over my face as rivulets of water ran through his hair, over his forehead, and down his cheeks. Part of me wanted to reach up and trace their pattern with my lips, taste the water mixed with his sweat, drink him in with every raindrop. My hands were still on his chest, feeling his hard muscles tense beneath his soaked shirt. He must have been running the forest trail, I thought to myself. I could feel his heart beating, still rapid with recovery from his run, alive and strong under my fingers.

He released my hips and in an instant his hands were on my face and his lips were pressing fiercely to mine, there, in the forest, as if he needed to capture and mark me as his own. I kissed him back, without hesitation, my hands running up his chest to his neck, through his wet hair, pulling him towards me and prolonging the moment. And then he was pushing me away as if I’d burned him with my touch.

“I’m so sorry,” he stammered, running his hand through his soaking hair, his eyes still on icy fire with lust and desire. Then just as suddenly as he’d appeared, he was gone, running back the way he came through the pine trees of the state park. I watched him disappear through the rain, powerless to stop him, powerless to stop a force I felt coming, colliding into us both.

Review: 

Be prepared for a very dark type book but with a great ending. Both the main characters Jo (Josephine) and Dex (Declan) both come with dark pasts and are really have broken spirits. Jo grew up in a orphanage after her mother passed away in a car accident when she was 12. She didn't know of her father or any other family. Dex suffered through the passing of his mother a then his father a couple years later. Jo breaking into houses to feel in control of her life as she didn't have control. Dex took to drinking and sleeping with any women that came around.

In a chance meeting Dex and Jo fall for each other, two broken souls. They both are from totally separate worlds - Jo a waitress trying to make enough money to keep a roof over her head and food in her belly, while Dex comes from a very wealthy family and doesn't worry about anything when it comes to money but both are very down to earth. As the story progresses we learn more about all the characters in the story who have had tragic loses.

The author does a great job in detailing each character that you feel you get to know each one well. I found the characters to be very mature for their ages but after what each has been through it would be understandable as each were forced to grow up faster than they should have. This is a dark story with mature scenes. In the end the author had a smile on my face and I was super happy on how things worked out for Josephine and Dex. 

Read More

Cuspian Book Tour & Giveaway! (US only)

Cuspian

by DC Hall Twins, Kendal and Kennedi Myles are the envy of their peers with: a second string spot on the varsity football team, smartass but loyal teammates, miniature pores, and a killer spray tan. They had big plans for sophomore year, until their mother is slaughtered during a botched robbery. Forced to move with their estranged father, Kendal becomes fixated with finding their mother’s killer, while Kennedi tries to settle into life with their dad. After the discovering a trail of unsettling clues, the pair to believe their mother’s death was part of a conspiracy. As the teens’ investigation digs deeper into their mom’s enigmatic past, a mysterious agency stumbles upon them, and the twosome learns they are Cuspians—individuals gifted with supernatural abilities. Kendal and Kennedi are soon faced with the challenge of staying concealed from the shadowy organization hell-bent on enslaving powerful Cuspians while trying to solve a murder. Family secrets, bloody breadcrumbs, and deadly obsessions guide the twins through tough decisions and awful mistakes. Desperate for their lives to return to normal, the pair found normal is not written in the stars for either one of them.

Purchase on Amazon / Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DC Hall is obsessed with argyle socks, the smell of books and believes he is the smartest person in the room. Granted he’s usually alone when he thinks this but it still feels good. When his nose isn’t stuck in a book, DC is usually writing or trying to teach his dog, Brooklyn, how to wash dishes (success remains elusive.) DC is from the south where the teas are sweet, distance is measured in minutes—not miles, and the skies are always Carolina blue.

If you are interested in learning more about DC: Email: dchallauthor@gmail.com Twitter | Blog | Facebook  

Follow the Book Tour Prize - Summer themed with nail polish, zodiac jewelry, and some other favorites of the main character a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Blasting the Heat away with Nerf!

This summer the heat has been HOT! How do you and your children keep cool? We have been swimming and breaking out the Nerf fun! What better way to stay cool then soaking each other with water?

I really wish I was able to get some great action shot but I was in the line of fire each time we brought out these amazing new Nerf soakers.

My son of course loved the feature on the Nerf super soaker switch shot! You have the option of changing up your stream of water to soak your opponent!

The Switch shot blaster holds up to 20 fluid ounces of water in the Banana Clip; you can attach extra Banana Clips (extra clips sold separately) to your pants or belt so you never run out of ammo. Enhance your blasting accuracy with the detachable stock. Choose your attack and launch the extreme soakage with the Switch shot blaster!

Choose from 4 different modes with the SWITCH SHOT blaster! Scattershot, Triple Shot, Atomizer or Jetstream mode. Pump to fire! Holds up to 20 fluid ounces of water. Fires water up to 25 feet.

When the weather wasn't nice enough to play out doors or when the kids were looking for a change we pulled out the dart guns. So much fun is hard with darts. We have a couple rules - No aiming at heads and if someone says time you stop. This new Nerf N-Strike Lite Rough Cut is the best! You have a choice of how many darts to shoot at one time! P got his father a few times with a whole whack of darts when he was least expecting it!

This sleek blaster lets you launch 2 Elite Darts at once at targets up to 75 feet away, and the pump-action design lets you pump repeatedly to unleash a steady double stream of darts! Launch up to 8 Elite Darts without reloading! As with most N-STRIKE blasters, the Tactical Rail lets you add most N-STRIKE Tactical Rail accessories (sold separately) for more battle capability. Power up the multishot madness of the ROUGH CUT 2X4 blaster and get ready to dominate with both barrels!

So have a blast with  Nerf this summer!


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. We received the above products for review purpose. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Defending Wellton by Kelli Kretzschmar ~ Book Review

Synopsis

Wellton, Arizona. Population 2,864… and falling. Something - or someone - is killing the kids in town, and the Wellton Police Department is called in to investigate the untimely deaths.

Officer Trent Buckley has lived in Wellton since the day he was born, and he’s been trying to get out of the small, dead-end town ever since. Just when he has a shot at a transfer to Tucson, a disturbing case lands in his lap, one that has him working with Yuma Sun reporter – and ex-lover – Sarah Goodwin. Trent is forced to push aside his resentment for Wellton and settle his own personal demons to focus on keeping more kids from dying in his town.

Chief John Walker has lived in Wellton for over thirty years. When kids start getting sick and dying, it takes all his courage to face his own past and solve the case. With the help of his best cop, Officer Buckley, Walker is determined to stop the deaths in his town, and keep them both alive in the process.

As the pair discovers what, or who, is behind the mysterious deaths, will two small-town cops be able to stay alive long enough to put a stop to it before any more kids have to die?

About the Author:

Kelli Kretzschmar, author of the mystery novel Defending Wellton, researched the novel by visiting Wellton, Arizona, and interviewing several officers of the Wellton Police Department. Kretzschmar says, “I needed to actually experience the feeling of the small town in order to capture Trent’s frustration in feeling stuck there. And speaking with the Wellton Police Department proved invaluable and has given me a lot of material for a second book in the Wellton series.”

Kretzschmar resides in Rancho Santa Margarita, California with her husband and three children. Although this is her first published novel, she says there will be more to come. “Writing is an exciting hobby,” says Kretzschmar. “I have lots of characters in my mind that are ready to come to life on paper. Currently, I’m working on three more novels and expect my next to be released this winter.” When asked to describe what she enjoys most about writing, Kretzschmar states, “There's a point I get to in the process of writing when the characters just start acting things out on their own, and I'm just there to record it all on paper.”

A full-time Marketing Manager for a high-technology company, Kretzschmar finds time to write between an active schedule of work, family life, and practicing her most recent passion, Krav Maga. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Cal State Long Beach.

Review:

Defending Wellton is a superbly written mystery.  Kretzschmar is a wonderfully descriptive author and her writing style is a great match for this genre.  The plot twists and turns and takes you in places that you never expected.  The climax of the book had me sitting on the edge of my seat nervously flipping pages in my e-reader to find out what happened.  The love story, while secondary to the main plot of the book, was interwoven beautifully and was very well done. Defending Wellton is a great book for any mystery fan to read and although the subject matter (the death of innocent children) is not pleasant, the author doesn't dwell on the deaths but uses them to further the plot. I read the book in 2 sittings, though the prologue and first chapter didn't hook me at first, I'm glad that I kept going because the action picked up in chapter 3 and kept me reading long after I should have been asleep!  Once you start Defending Wellton, you will find yourself invested in the characters and the town and will be as worried as if this mystery were happening in your backyard.  Overall, Defending Wellton is a great choice and I look forward to more mysteries with Trent and Sarah in the future.

~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Jenn.. A copy of the book was received in exchange for an honest review.*~

Read More

Climb That Fence & Take That Leap Book Review & $25 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

 

Climb That Fence & Take That Leap

by Philip Johnsey

Ever wonder if there is more to your pet's behavior than meets the eye? Can we learn something about ourselves by watching them? Climb that Fence take that Leap is a compilation of personal, inspirational animal stories and the life lessons we can glean from them. After enjoying these stories, you'll spend a little extra time with your friend and know what it takes to Climb that Fence and Take that Leap!



Buy: Amazon | B&N | Paperback

 

Author bio:

Raised on a farm and having been a volunteer at different animal rescues, it’s no surprise that his first two published articles were about animals. So it’s only fitting that Phil’s first book is about animals and the connections we share. From Phil’s first high school job to present, he’s spent his career working with clients, explaining complex ideas in an easy to understand manner. Phil enjoys using his talents to make a positive difference and all the things he learns along the way. In addition Phil enjoys exploring the world and sharing those adventures via writing, photography, and videography. We are all connected and sharing our stories just brings people closer. Phil’s credits include, multiple I.T. certifications, account management, Reiki master, photographer, author of two blogs, writes a travel column for work, co-hosts a local television show, and whatever else he can get into.

My thoughts: This was a really quick read that really made me think along the way of my own behaviours and those around me. It really made me realize that yes we can look at animal behaviour and see that humans do respond similarly to animals. We should look at animals and realize we for the most part make a lot of the stress and bad situations worse with how we respond to the situation. Do we need to lash back when someone is poking to get us to respond? or how about no giving that quick lash back and walk away until we can talk. I know some people like to "push" responders and that only makes the responder super stressed over the situations. Just like with the cats in this book. Instead take a deep breathe and respond calming and walk away. This was a great book to really make you think more concisely about our own behaviours and reactions. I give this a 4 out of 5.

Follow the Book Tour
 
Enter to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Daughter of Jerusalem by Joan Wolf - Book Review

Book Summary: 

In Daughter of Jerusalem, readers will quickly identify with Mary Magdalene, a woman of deep faith who used her wealth and influence to serve Jesus. This fictionalized story of Mary Magdalene is, in the truest sense of the word, an inspirational novel for modern people who are looking to renew in themselves the message of Christ. It's the greatest story ever lived, told by one of the most famous women who ever lived, and it's a page-turner. Joan Wolf's years of success as a novelist enable her to combine storytelling and a faith plot in this beautifully written biblical fiction

  
To find a retailer to pick up a copy of Daughter of Jerusalem head over to Worthy Publishing.  Don't forget to add it to your Goodreads shelf.

About the Author: 

Joan Wolf has lived most of her adult life with her husband in Milford, Connecticut, where she raised two children and an assortment of horses, dogs, and cats. Along the way she also managed to write forty-six published novels, the writing of which profoundly enriched her life.

My thoughts: 

When I was approached about reviewing Daughter of Jerusalem I was intrigued with learning more about Mary Magdalene. Usually I am not a historical type person and usually don't find history books that interesting.

Right from the beginning we get to know Mary from a very young age and follow her during her first love Daniel to an arranged married to Aaron bar David. This marriage is an empty marriage all the while Mary still loves Daniel. Mary meets a Roman women who is single after her husbands death. This is really uncommon for a women to live alone and Julia has a lot of money and entertains a lot. Mary is then introduced to a Roman man Marcus Novius Claudius. Aaron tells Mary to have an intimate relationship with Marcus as Aaron really wants a boy to be his heir.

The story is strong and builds very quickly going from a young age into adulthood. It is page turning and had me wanting to read more. I didn't want to put it down when I needed to sleep. Mary had sinned, stopped praying and going to the Synagogue. She became very social with Romans and spent a lot of time with her friend Julia. Later a bad thing happened in her life that she decided to head back closer to her childhood town where she met Jesus of Nazareth who claimed he was the Messiah and the Son of God. He could cure people and also rise people from the dead. Mary was one of Jesus' faithful followers right until the end.

This was a great book to learn more of the history of Jesus of Nazareth and Mary Magdalene. I learned a lot about the Jewish and Roman laws/religion in that time and I was really surprised with some of it. I work in a Jewish group home and know about the holidays and some of the religion but this was a great way to learn more about the days past. I give this book a 4 1/2 stars out of 5. I really enjoyed the storyline and writing from Joan Wolf. I look forward to checking out some of Wolf's other work.


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn on behalf of Worthy Publishing. I received a copy of the above book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Animal Hats by Vanessa Mooncie ~ Knitting Book Review

Book Description: Gather knitting know-how for making animal hats of all shapes and sizes. The book features detailed knitting patterns, schematics, and basic animal hat-making techniques--plus how-to instruction for adding a fleecy hat-lining for extra coziness. There are patterns for every animal-lover. Animals included are cat, dog, chicken, rabbit, pig, frog, penguin, cow, elephant, fox, koala, monkey, panda, lion, and mouse. Patterns offer both child and adult sizes, so family members can each have their own hat

About the Author: Vanessa Mooncie spent many happy hours as a child sitting with her mother and maternal grandmother learning how to knit and crochet. She went on to study fashion and textile design and became a self-employed children’s wear designer, illustrator and commercial interior designer. She now specializes in silkscreen work and designing crochet jewellery, which she sells through her company Kissy Suzuki. She lives with her family in a rural village in the south of England. Vanessa is also working on Crocheted Accessories for GMC Publications and is a regular contributor to other craft books and magazines.

Purchase a copy from Thomas Allen & Sons Ltd. for $18.95

My Initial Review:

Today I am just reviewing the book, how the instructions are laid out and ideas. I will be working on knitting a couple hats in September when it isn't plus 40C out. I will later review the patterns and how the hat(s) turned out.

This is a great knitting book for anyone looking to make animal hats for children and adults. With 15 patterns to choose from there is sure to be one each family member will love. When the book first arrived the kids picked up which hat they would like me to make. This is the first knitting book I have and will be the first time knitting intarsia.

With a simple quick 1 page introduction we jump right into the projects. Each project (hat) has a single page for materials needed, size and gauge needed to obtain right hat size. There are tons of photos of the finished hat from different angles and the next page is broken down into a small overview and each section as they need to be knitted.

If you are a newer knitter you can easily flip to the back of the book to find knitting abbreviations along with basic knitting techniques. You will also find 2 options for linings that can be used for any of the patterns in the book, fleece & knitted.

I do have a few things I didn't like about this book, this could be because I am a new knitter but I didn't like that each pattern calls for a brand name yarn. It does say or equivalent but for myself I had to look up each wool/yarn to see what could work instead of the brand in the book. Some of the wool isn't available in my local knitting store and can be costly if it is. Also for kids wool isn't always the best for easy washing care as it has to be hand washed gently as to not felt it and I don't have a lot of time to hand wash things. I did noticed when I was online looking for a yarn that at least one yarn that was mentioned in the book was discontinued.

My kids have picked out the Fox and Cat hat for me to make them this fall. 

If you were to pick a hat to make or have one made, which would you choose? I would love to hear your thoughts in a comment below! 


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn on behalf of Thomas Allen & Sons ltd. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Precious Embrace Book Review & Giveaway

Book Summary:

A second divorce and a new baby wasn’t the vision Alison Hayes had for her future. Now a single mother with two young boys, she wants to focus on her kids and what’s left of her stagnant career.

When Detective Johnny Rhay Bennett breezes into her life with his country-boy accent, she wants to run. She doesn’t need another man in her life, or another reason to make people talk. But when her worst nightmare becomes a reality, Johnny is the only person who can pull Ali out of her despair, forcing her to stay strong and not give up hope of finding her missing child.

***

Who falls in love after a one-night stand? Johnny Rhay doesn’t believe it’s possible until it happens to him. With Nashville in his rear-view mirror, he’s determined to convince Alison she loves him too, even if it means moving to the West Coast.

Ali’s not easy, and she’s living on just this side of bitter after her divorce, but Johnny doesn’t care. He’s up for the challenge. At least, he believes he’s up for it until baby Micah is stolen right out from under his nose. Now Johnny has to keep it together and get that sweet little boy home safe before his dreams of having a family vanish too.

Purchase Kindle

About the Author:

Dana Mason started writing to prove to her computer geek husband and her math & science geek kids that she actually has a brain; it’s just a right functioning brain instead of a left. She’s lived all over the country and uses that experience in her writing and character studies. Her debut novel, Dangerous Embrace, is the first in a contemporary romance series about a group of friends from Northern California who learn just how short life can be when you don’t hold on to what’s important. Second chances don’t come easy…but sometimes love is worth the risk. 

When not writing, Dana specializes in professional development and training. She’s also a board member on the local Art's Council and does what she can to support the art community.  As an avid reader and movie watcher, she always requires a happily ever after ending.

Website

 Publisher Author Page Twitter - @danamason06 Facebook

My Review

Precious Embrace was a second novel written by Mason, it’s not a follow up to the previous novel Dangerous Embrace so you are able to read it without starting there, although I did enjoy a brief update on the characters from DE.

Precious Embrace was a great read, filled with suspense and romance. It begins with Ali’s reflection on a one night stand she had with detective Johnny Rae while attending her first ex-husbands marriage. Johnny Rae being a childhood friend of her ex-husbands new wife, and her having a close relationship with her ex, they were both in attendance to the Maui wedding. They met briefly at the end of Dangerous Embrace and it was obvious they were going to have a connection. The only problem was Johnny lived 3000 miles away.  

So while being together at the wedding they took advantage of the time together in a romantic city, but Ali now going through her second divorce in 2 years was only willing to spend just that one night with Johnny as she has a young infant son from her recent marriage, and 8 year old from her first marriage. She wants her children to be her focus; a new relationship was not in the cards.

To her surprise Johnny decided he couldn’t be without her and packed up his old life in Nashville and moved to sunny California. Ali didn’t know what his plan was and although she tried to fight her true feelings of how she felt, she eventually gives into this immediate connection, and love quickly makes them irresistible to one another.

Sadly though the dramatic kidnapping of her young 4 month old son soon happens, and although Johnny attempted a very heroic rescue, and he almost lost his life trying, the kidnappers still got away. Now he must help Ali through the days of not knowing where, by who, or why her son Micah has been taken.

Dana writes a terrific read and I really enjoyed it! Even with a two year old and two month old, I used every available ‘me moment’ to read and find out what was going to happen next. She did a terrific job with the characters and story line.  Johnny was every woman’s dream in the sense he loved her for her, and he opened his arms to love her young boys as if they were his own. Of course the accent made him irresistible to me, for some reason a southern drawl is hard to resist, and I caught myself many times reading him with his accent. I would give this book a 4!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Posted by Cheryl
 
~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Cheryl for Genuine Jenn. A copy of this book was received in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Within The Realm Book Blast & Giveaway!

The Gifted walk among us. They are unseen, but in plain sight. The Earth’s energies are as visible to them as the tangible world is to us and they can harness and bend these forces to their will. Atop the Pentagon resides the government of the Gifted Realm. Rainer Lawson is set to join the ranks of Elite Officers in the Gifted Police force. With his fellow officers, they will work together, using their abilities, to try and end the most sinister criminal organization in existence. His parents fought and died to re-establish the Realm, and he won’t allow them to have sacrificed in vain. The will to protect those he loves has always driven Rainer, but his desperation to protect Emily, the love of his life, consumes him. While passions ignite and vengeance is sought, Rainer may discover that all of his money, fame, and power, could cost him the only thing that has ever truly mattered. -

See more at: jillianneal.com

Buy: Hardback | Paperback | Kindle | B&N

Author Bio

Jillian Neal is the author of “The Gifted Realm” series of novels. She has a passion for telling strong, character driven stories that stretch the imagination. Her debut novel “Within the Realm” was released in 2013, with the next installments of the series soon to follow. She lives near Atlanta with her husband and children.

For more information, visit her website at http://www.jillianneal.com

Follow: http://facebook.com/jilliannealauthor
Twitter -@jilliannealauth
Website - http://jillianneal.com

Prize: Gift Cards to Emily's Favorite Stores

$25 Anthropologie Gift Card
$10 Victoria Secret Gift Card
$10 Bath and Body Works Gift Card plus.......
Within the Realm Fan Pack - Virginia Beach Travel Mug - Cinnamon Discs (Emily's favorite) -
A box of Emily's favorite Tea - Dr Pepper Lip Smackers
Enter to Win, fill out the form below
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

First Rescue Dog For the Kids

As you can likely tell in our house we love 4 legged furbabies. Last week was a busy week with P in a sports camp. As we were coming home from picking up P from camp we stopped at one of the busiest intersections in our town. When we were waiting for the light to turn green I noticed this little dog jumping up and down on the side walk near one of the vehicles in front of us. I looked around and didn't see a owner anywhere behind us and wondered who's little dog this is. I also wondered if the people in the car where going to get the dog or just drive off. After waiting a minute or two I decided I needed to pick up the dog myself before it ran out into the busy street. I put on my four way flashers and jumped out of our van to get this little dog.

This little dog was super friendly and warmed up to the kids within seconds. We toured the neighborhood asking if anyone knew the dog but nobody did. We then went home to see if anyone reported a lost dog to our local shelter or animal control. No luck but we gave all the information to the animal control people and then we wait.

Molly and the "Little One" (as we named it) got along great and went for a couple walks together and spent time bonding. I kept reminding the kids that we are only having the Little One until we find its owner and that we are not to think it will be our dog. They did really well with this.

The next morning I received a call from Animal Control but after talking to the lady she said never of the calls she got that morning were for the dog I was describing. So we wait some more. I sent off pictures to the animal control to have for when she would get a call.

Friday afternoon arrived and Animal control came by to scan the dog and came up with no chip but he said he would go back into the area we found the dog and see if he could find the house. A couple hours later we got a call telling us that the owner has been found and would be coming for her dog.

It was a tearful goodbye from A but P did really well keeping it together and telling his sister that we should be happy that the dog has its owner again.

I am super proud of the kids for helping me look after this little dog that lost its way. I am really considering being a foster for a rescue shelter in the future. We first need a bigger place with more area for dogs to run.

Have you ever found a lost animal? Where you able to find its owner(s)?


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

What Can You Do with Unwanted CD's, DVD's & Video Games?

Most of us find ourselves with extra "stuff" laying around the house or maybe you are like myself and box and bag everything and stack it in the basement or in a closet or corner of a room. What to do with all this unwanted "stuff"? Donate, throw out or how about make some quick cash? I see tons of people turning to the internet to get rid of their old items and make some extra cash, and why not? You likely spent tons of money on obtaining all these great items.

musicMagpie is a great to sell my stuff online and makes selling unwanted CD's, DVD's and video games super simple. I know you likely have tons of items that you can easily part with and make extra cash for vacations, presents, that new computer or phone. We have a couple funds we have been saving for, my newest fund is for a MacBook Air.

Head over to their website and you can get started right away. It is free to sell your stuff on musicMagpie and super easy. If you are a resident of the US here is how you can get started. Enter the bar codes either manually or by using your web camera. When the bar codes are enter you will see an estimate of how much you could get for each item (CD's, DVD's and video games). Shipping is also free! Can't get better than that. You can send in a maximum of 200 in one box. Attach the shipping label that you will receive by email and drop your box off in the mail box or office depending on size.

When your items arrive at the office they will go through a Quality Assessment and then you can expect a check in the mail shortly.

Do you have an iPhone or Android? There is a quicker way to scan each item with their App! It is free to download and use and you can get started right away. Sort, scan, print, mail and earn cash!

Start making money with your unwanted things today.      


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Do You Love to Read & Write?

If so, I am looking for you! I am looking to bring on some new faces to Genuine Jenn. I am looking for two-four people to help contribute to Genuine Jenn.

If you are a lover of books there is room for you.

Do you like to travel and want to share your experiences?

Do you craft and want to showcase your work and/or write tutorials of DIY projects?

Are you a foodie who wants to share yummy recipes?

This is for serious people only. If you are interested please fill in the form below and I will be choosing a few people soon.


~*Disclaimer: This post was written by Genuine Jenn. All opinions are honest and my own.*~

Read More

Thirty-Two Going On Spinster Book Tour & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway!

Thirty- Two Going On Spinster

by Becky Monson "According to Webster’s dictionary, A spinster is: 1: an unmarried woman of gentle family 2: an unmarried woman and especially one past the common age for marrying 3: a woman who seems unlikely to marry 4: me Julia Dorning is a spinster, or at least on the road to becoming one. She has no social life, hates her job, and lives in her parent’s basement with her cat, Charlie.With the arrival of Jared Moody, the new hire at work, Julia’s mundane life is suddenly turned upside down. Her instant (and totally ridiculous) crush on the new guy causes Julia to finally make some long-overdue changes, in hopes to find a life that includes more than baking and hanging out with Charlie. But when the biggest and most unexpected change comes, will the new and improved Julia be able to overcome it? Or will she go back to her spinster ways?"

Buy on Amazon

About the Author:
By day, Becky Monson is a mother to three young children, and a wife. By night, she escapes with reading books and writing. In her debut novel, Becky uses humor and true-life experiences to bring her characters to life. She loves all things chick-lit (movies, books, etc.), and wishes she had a British accent. She has recently given up Diet Coke for the fiftieth time and is hopeful this time will last... but it probably won't. Becky runs a large on-line book club called "This Chick Reads". Check it out on Facebook!

Follow Becky: FaceBook | Goodreads | Blog | Facebook - This Chick Reads

Follow the Book Tour!

The author is offering a $50 Amazon Gift card as a tour prize. Fill out the form below to enter and be sure to pick up her book! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Excerpt from Crushing by Elena Dillon

Crushing

As a pampered and adored daughter of a wealthy Southern family Rory’s life was seemingly perfect until her troubled childhood crush moves back in across the street forcing her to choose between him and the life that has been chosen for her.

As if that isn’t enough, her quiet island town has turned dangerous. A good friend has gone missing, lending truth to the rumors of a serial kidnapper. In her quest to help she becomes a target and will have to make choices about love, friendship and the inevitable sacrifice that they both require.
Elena Dillon’s blog /Twitter /Facebook /Google+ /Goodreads /

 Purchase on Amazon

Elena lives and writes in a suburb North of Los Angeles.  She has never lived anywhere besides California which is probably a good thing since she hates being cold and is terrified to drive in the snow. She loves being a wife and a mother to her two kids and three dogs, although really the bulldog is the fourth child who has never matured beyond the toddler stage.

A self proclaimed nerd, she has been writing since she was a child. She has only recently, however, come out of the closet about this to her family and friends.  They now understand better, but not completely, why she talks about characters in stories as if they are real people.


Excerpt from Crushing: 

“Aurora,” Gage called out.

I froze. Did he not remember that I hated when people used my full name? I looked back and he was
strolling over to me, completely ignoring Dominic, whose whole body stiffened up. I widened my eyes at Gage as he made his way over, but he didn’t even check his stride. He grinned at me. I knew that look.

He remembered all right.

“Gage,” I said through my teeth. I had reached the end of my tolerance of overbearing males.

“Are you trying out for the golf team today after school?”

Him? On the golf team? This could be an issue. Holden, Dom, and I played on the team every year. Not good. “I was planning on it.” “We both are. Why do you care?” Dom had stepped up to stand next to me, his tone belligerent.

Gage did not even look at him.

“I spoke to the coach Friday and signed up, so I guess I’ll see you over there.”

Dom huffed.

Gage took a step toward Dom. “Problem?”

“With you. Yeah. Stay away from her. She’s not even supposed to talk to you. So find some other girl to bother,” he said through gritted teeth.

“Dom!” I gasped.

Gage shifted his gaze to me. “Really?” He turned back and took another step toward Dom. “I think Rory can decide for herself. I’m pretty sure she doesn’t need a babysitter either—especially not some
meathead jacked up on steroids.”

“Right, because hanging out with a screwup like you is better, and man, I don’t need steroids to finish
what we started the other night.” Dom moved forward, and they were chest to chest having a stare
down. People were starting to gather. It didn’t take long when boys got a whiff of a fight. I stepped forward ready to wiggle into the middle of them, when the bell rang. The realization of where and when they were must have broken the spell. They stared at each other for another beat, then they
both stepped back. I took a breath. That was close.

Gage turned to me. “See you later.” He winked and walked away.

Why was nothing ever simple?

Read More