Blog Tour: Licensed for Trouble Book Review

PJ Sugar receives shocking news that she's inherited the Kellogg family mansion. Though she has no idea why, the timing is perfect-PJ has clearly worn out her welcome at her sister's house. Unfortunately, the mansion is in shambles, and PJ is short on cash. Rescue comes in the form of Max Smith, a mysterious handyman willing to trade his services for PJ's investigative skills. But PJ already has a full docket with cramming for her PI license and nurturing a growing romance with her boss, Jeremy Kane. Can she take on Max's case without dropping the ball?

The author, Susan May Warren, is the RITA award-winning author of twenty-four novels with Tyndale, Barbour and Steeple Hill. A four-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Book of the Year.

Susan's larger than life characters and layered plots have won her acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. A seasoned women’s events and retreats speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!. She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.

Susan makes her home in northern Minnesota, where she is busy cheering on her two sons in football, and her daughter in local theater productions (and desperately missing her college-age son!) A full listing of her titles, reviews and awards can be found at: http://www.susanmaywarren.com/.

My Opinion

I did not have the pleasure of reading the other books in this series before I read Licensed for Trouble, but it did not make me like this book any less! I am going to be sure and go get them now though!

I absolutely love this book. My poor son had to sit in bed after his nap a little longer because I could not put the book down once I started!! :o) I love that it had a Christian setting but had an air of mystery and romance!

I love the storyline, the characters, but I especially love the main character PJ. I could really see myself in her character - the trouble she gets into and how she can't seem to get past her past.

But best of all, I loved the setting! Minnesota and the Twin Cities is where I grew up so I knew all the places she talked about in the book and it really helped me relate! This is the first book I have ever read that was based in the Twin Cities! I loved that!

I recommend Licensed for Trouble for all you romance, adventure, and sleuth lovers out there! This book will appeal to so many different people!

Buy It: You can purchase Licensed for Trouble for $11.99 on Christianbook.com

Enter PJ Sugar's "Sweet" Giveaway

Licensed for Trouble, Susan's brand new PJ Sugar novel, is in stores now! To celebrate the release, we’re giving away a Kindle!! You can enter using Twitter, Facebook, or e-mail using the icons below.
One Grand Prize winner will receive a A SWEET Kindle prize package that includes:

• A brand new Kindle (Free 3G, 6”, Latest Generation)
• The entire PJ Sugar series by Susan May Warren

To enter, simply click on the icons below to fill out the entry form. Then tell your friends about the contest.
Oh, and enter soon! We’ll announce our super sleuth winner on September 2nd.

Also, Click here to see the other blogs on the Licensed for Trouble blog tour.

* Thank you to Litfuse for this book for review! Disclosure - This book was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Giveaway Winners of The Week!

Congratulations Winners! Look for an email from me and respond within 48 hours to claim your prize!!!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

SpicyLegs Giveaway Winners # 51 Courtney

and...

#100 - Pamela S.

Monkey Toe Giveaway Winner # 113 - Libby

ComfyRumps Winner #371 - Mariah

So Easy Baby Food Kit Winner #24 - Sticemichelle

DryBees All In One Hybrids Cloth Diaper Review

Check out this new diaper from DryBees that I just discovered recently! I love the DryBees All In One Hybrid Diaper and I can't wait to share it with you!

So what is a "hybrid?"

DryBees All In One Hybrid Diapers are made from the same pattern as the traditional DryBees pocket style diapers, but these have their own three layer microfiber insert enclosed within the body of the diaper and leg casings for a sure fit.

Microfiber is the perfect choice for All In One diapers since it takes a short amount of time in the dryer or on the line for your diaper to be dry, fluffy and ready to use.

Since the soaker is sewn within the diaper these diapers truly are as easy as disposables. Here is the hybrid part - for those babies that need a little extra there is a pocket for an additional insert. DryBees AIO Hybrid's are the perfect solution for the heavier wetter, day trips or night time use.

My Opinion

There are so many great features about the DryBees All In One - I don't even know where to start!!

First off, I love that the soaker is sown in - it creates a no hassle diaper - No Stuffing, No Folding, No Removing, No Lost Inserts, No Unhappy MOMMA!!! :o) I love it! It is so simple to use - even my husband can do it!

I also love that it does have an extra pocket for any additional inserts I may want to use. Therefore, it can also be an option for a nighttime diaper for my heavy wetter!!! Normally, I just use AIO's during the day and pocket diapers at night but now this hybrid diaper can be used for both!

The third thing I love is that it dried really fast compared to my other AIO's! It was done drying in half the time! It was also super easy to clean, wash and dry!

The only thing I wish for this diaper is that it had some overlapping closures. My son has such a skinny waist that it would be nice to be able to overlap the velcro straps.

I recommend DryBees All In One Hybrids for every cloth diaperer...whether you like pocket diapers or AIO's this diaper can be for you! It works great for nighttime and daytime, heavy wetter or not!

Buy It: DryBees do not sell their diapers to the public but must be purchased through authorized retailers.

* Thank you to DryBees for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Weight Loss Event: Stretchaflex Review and Giveaway

As an athletic trainer, I know how important stretching is to keeping yourself healthy, injury free, and flexible! It is so important to keep stretching even during a weight loss program!

One of my favorite stretching tools is the Stretchaflex! I used this wonderful stretching tool with all my athletes when I was working and now I can use it in the comfort of my home!

Stretch A Flex is an ingenious flexibility enhancer, specially designed to provide the optimal leverage necessary for super stretches and the fastest way to maximum flexibility.

Stretchaflex is like having your own stretching partner but better, as unlike stretching with the aid of a partner, Stretchaflex allows you to monitor your own stretch comfort zone so you are able to gain the optimal intensity for maximal flexibility while avoiding over stretching and injury. You don't need a stretching machine - you become your own stretching machine with the Stretchaflex!

Constructed from super strong webbing with Velcro style hook, a loop running along it’s length and a stainless steel adjuster loop; this flexiblity enhancer is made to last for many years of constant use.

Stretch A Flex gives you complete control over the amount of stretch you receive. This is not an elastic stretching band; you stretch, not the band. The majority of stretches are controlled by the feet, working one leg against the other to control tension, thus avoiding fatigue in the arms, and facilitating an enjoyable relaxed stretching session. The incredible effectiveness of Stretch A Flex lies in the fact that it provides leverage over a range of positions and lengths.

Easily adjusted, Stretch A Flex allows for incredible diversity, enabling you to change from one stretch to the next with minimal effort. By utilizing recognized scientific stretching principles, Stretch A Flex allows you to “listen to your own body” and achieve super stretches leading to ultimate flexibility. Stretch A Flex represents the ultimate in portability. It is ‘your Anywhere-Anytime stretching partner’ that can accompany you to any workout.

To learn why it is so important to stretch and all the benefits stretching brings, click here.

My Opinion

The Stretchaflex is such a great tool. It is perfect for someone who works out alone and doesn't have a partner! It is your very own stretching partner!

I use this after all my workouts now to get a great stretch and increase my flexibility! I love the great carrying pouch so I can take it wherever I am working out or even on vacation! It also came with a great DVD and booklet that explains all the different ways to use the Stretchaflex and makes a really great easy reference!

It is so easy to use and I definitely recommend the Stretchaflex to all exercise enthusiasts, beginners, and everyone on their weight loss journey!

Buy It: You can purchase a Stretchaflex for $59.95 on the Stretchaflex website.

Win It: Stretchaflex is generously offering (1) Stretchaflex, DVD and booklet to a lucky winner!

Enter here for a chance to win:

(1)Stretchaflex, DVD and booklet from Stretchaflex
(Value of $59.95!)

Ok, here are the rules:

1) This giveaway will end September 2, 2010 at 12:00 P.M. (noon) central time.

2) Must include email address in comment/entry to qualify to win (so I can let you know you won)

How to Enter:
***Mandatory Entry***

(must do this one before all others to qualify to win)

- Be a follower of The Review Stew on Google Friend Connect (publicly) and tell me you are currently one or became one in a comment below

Extra Entries (Make a Separate Comment For Each!!):

1) Subscribe to my feed by clicking on the book or subscribe by email (must confirm address) on left hand side of blog - let me know you did in a comment

2) Tell me how you found my blog!

3) Become a fan of Stretchaflex on Facebook - tell me in a comment and tell them The Review Stew sent you!

4) Vote for my blog on Top Mommy Blogs, Top Baby Blogs, or We're On the Fence - make a separate comment for each

5) Enter any of my other giveaways - see the list on right hand side of blog. Let me know each giveaway entered in a comment (up to 5 entries only for giveaways entered)

6) Grab my Weight Loss Event button or my blog button and post it on your blog - let me know you did and the link to your blog in a comment. (If you grab both, that is two separate entries!!!)

Winners will be chosen randomly by Random.org, contacted by email and Stretchaflex will send your prize by mail.

* Thank you to Stretchaflex for their generous samples for review!

Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Verterra Dinnerware Review

In our house we love disposable dinnerware. It just saves on time and dishwashing for us at a time where it is hard to find extra time. However, I feel guilty a lot using regular disposable dinnerware...that is until I was introduced to VerTerra: Dinnerware From Fallen Leaves™ !

While they can't promise that your meal will be guilt-free, they can promise that your dinnerware will be.

Verterra's products include environmentally-friendly plates, bowls and serving dishes that are made only from two products: fallen leaves and water. They're non-toxic, biodegradable, compostable, durable, lightweight, convenient and downright stylish.
 
Their production process is simple and transparent: After collecting fallen leaves that would normally be burned, they apply steam, heat and pressure to transform the leaves into durable products that will naturally compost in 2 months.

VerTerra products are made in India, where their employees receive fair wages in safe working conditions and are provided access to health care.

My Opinion

These plates were so cool! I loved that I didn't have to feel guilty using them and they were so convenient and easy to use at the same time!

They were so sturdy and held up so well against all types of food! They could even be microwaved or put in the oven! How great is that???!!!

I recommend Verterra dinnerware for all people who would like a safe, eco friendly disposable dinnerware. It is perfect for every occasion and holds up against all types of food and occasions!

Buy It: You can purchase VerTerra nationwide at most Whole Foods Markets for $3.99 - $6.49 for a package of 8 plates. You can also purchase them at other major stores including:

•Earth Fare
•Fairway Market
•Mollie Stones
•Mother's Market
•New Seasons Market
•Feel Rite Fresh Market
•New Leaf Community Markets
•Nugget Market

VerTerra can also be found in many local natural food stores and co-ops.

* Thank you to Verterra for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.

Saba Botanical Lustrous Henna Hair Color Review

I have wanted to dye my hair forever!!! However, I was pregnant and then breastfeeding and I just couldn't find a safe alternative to the harmful, toxic hair dyes that are out on the market. Until now....I am so excited to introduce everyone to Saba Botanical! They have a great natural Henna hair dye that is safe for everyone to use!

Lustrous Henna hair color is an all natural/herbal hair dye or as some call it a vegetable dye for men and women. It is a true all natural formulation that can even cover gray. Lustrous Henna can be used for hair coloring as well as for hair highlights. Lustrous Henna is non toxic, hypoallergenic, does not contain Ammonia, Peroxide, PPD (paraphenlene-diamine), or synthetic dyes. Herbal Henna/mehndi is mixed with other herbs to achieve different hair color shades, such as red, mahogany, brown, dark brown black and more. Beside Lustrous Henna Hair dye, they offer other natural hair care products such as shampoos and conditioners containing natural extracts as soapnut(reetha fruit), Amla, Shikakai and other valuable herbs.

My Opinion

I was so excited to try out this henna dye! But so nervous at the same time! I have never dyed my hair before and I decided to go with the Lustrous Henna Mahogany to give my hair a little red touch!

Thanks to my husband's help, it was really easy to do and took about a couple hours to complete the whole process. I loved that I could do it in the comfort and privacy of my own home and watch TV at the same time! It made the time go by really fast!

It was also great to know I got a beautiful color but without all the harmful ingredients! The color came out pretty red at first but it eventually blended in and looked gorgeous! I love my new hair color and I can't wait to buy a different color next time!

I recommend Saba Botanical Lustrous Henna Hair Color for all men and women who either want to cover grays or just want a new hair color/change like me! The colors are gorgeous, don't dry your hair out, and are safe for everyone to use!

Buy It: You can purchase the Lustrous Henna Hair Dye for $6.99 for 100 grams on the Saba Botanical website.

* Thank you to Saba Botanical for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Three Happy Trees Wool Diaper Cover Review

I love to support and spread the word about fellow SAHM like me! :o) Today I have a great Etsy Shop for you all to check out. Mandi from Three Happy Trees is great to work with and has some great products!

Mandi from Three Happy Trees is a SAHM of one little 3 1/2 year old girl and were also blessed a little boy in December! She loves to repurpose materials - pants, shirts, sweaters, etc. She likes to find new life for them rather than get rid of them. She discovered wool diaper covers while CDing her daughter. She loved that it was a natural, breathable fiber. What she loved more was repurposing gently used wool sweaters and making them into affordable covers/shorties/longies for other mama's and their babes.

I received the extra-fine merino wool soaker from Three Happy Trees. These cozy shorties are made from 100% extra-fine merino wool, are black in color and have a lambswool doubler sewn into the inside for added protection and absorbency. Great for both nighttime and daytime!

My Opinion

I received the extra-fine merino wool cover from Three Happy Trees...and I LOVE IT!!!! It fits my son perfectly and is not super bulky but still does the job perfectly. There has been no leaks while using this cover and he wears it all night!

My favorite feature is the extra soaker sown in. That is something none of my other wool covers or soakers have and it just helps me be that more confident that this soaker is heavy duty and will hold up against my heavy wetting son!

I recommend Three Happy Trees if you are looking for a great wool cover for heavy wetters or for overnight!

Buy It: You can purchase the Extra-fine merino wool cloth diaper cover for $13.00 from the Three Happy Trees Etsy Shop.

* Thank you to Three Happy Trees for their product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Ella's Kitchen New Flavors Giveaway

I absolutely love Ella's Kitchen baby food. It is easy to use, easy to travel with, and easy to store and best of all 100% organic! I have done a full review of Ella's Kitchen baby food in the past. Click here to see it.

I am so excited to tell all of you about the new flavors that Ella's Kitchen just announced! I tried them out...well my son tried them all...and of course, he LOVED them!

Read on to learn all of their exciting news and how to enter to win your own 4-pack of new flavors!!!

Recently, Ella's Kitchen launched 4 new flavors (two Stage 1 and two Smoothie fruits), expanded their reach in Target stores to over 500 stores nationwide, and added a new handy dandy zip code locator tool to make it easy for Moms and Dads to find them!

Check out the new flavors:

Stage 1
Butternut squash, carrots, apples, prunes

Spinach, apple, rutabaga


Smoothie fruits
The Green One - Apples, pears, banana, kiwi fruit

The Purple One - bananas, apples, blackcurrants, blueberries

Buy It: The new flavors are exclusive with Babies R US, Toys R US, and online at babiesrus.com for the next few months!

Win It: Ella's Kitchen is generously offering (1) sample pack of the 4 new yummy 100% organic flavors to a lucky winner!

Enter here for a chance to win:

(1) sample pack of the 4 new yummy 100% organic flavors from Ella's Kitchen

Ok, here are the rules:

1) This giveaway will end August 31, 2010 at 12:00 P.M. (noon) central time.

2) Must include email address in comment/entry to qualify to win (so I can let you know you won)

How to Enter:
***Mandatory Entry***

(must do this one before all others to qualify to win)

- Be a follower of The Review Stew on Google Friend Connect (publicly) and tell me you are currently one or became one in a comment below

Extra Entries (Make a Separate Comment For Each!!):

1) Subscribe to my feed by clicking on the book or subscribe by email (must confirm address) on left hand side of blog - let me know you did in a comment

2) Tell me how you found my blog!

3) Become a fan of Ella's Kitchen on Facebook - tell me in a comment and tell them The Review Stew sent you!

4) Vote for my blog on Top Mommy Blogs, Top Baby Blogs, or We're On the Fence - make a separate comment for each

5) Enter any of my other giveaways - see the list on right hand side of blog. Let me know each giveaway entered in a comment (up to 5 entries only for giveaways entered)

6) Grab my Weight Loss Event button or my blog button and post it on your blog - let me know you did and the link to your blog in a comment. (If you grab both, that is two separate entries!!!)

Winners will be chosen randomly by Random.org, contacted by email and Ella's Kitchen will send your prize by mail.

* Thank you to Ella's Kitchen for their generous samples for review!

Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*