I Love My Freedom to Read!

Every week Crazy-for-Books hosts the Book Blogger Hop. Participants answer a question and then visit other blogs of fellow participants. This week's question is:

“In honor of Banned Books Week, what is your favorite banned or frequently challenged book?”

My answer: We've been having a lot of discussion lately about Banned Books Week in my classes at USF.  Without question, my favorite "challenged" book is To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I'm not sure if it was actually banned or not. Read more about Banned Books Week here.  

What about you?

My Friday Fun!

The beauty of couponing is that I'm spending less money on groceries, but my pantry is stocked better than ever before.  The last few weeks at Publix have been great for me.  I got everything pictured below at Publix for $16.53 with the exception of the Milk. That came from CVS and I paid $.79 for it.

Here are some of my great buys:

• Hamburger Helper: $.55 each. My husband and I go through so many of these that it is a great deal for us!
• Normal Price: $1.59
• Discounts:
• BOGO sale.
• $.75/3 Manufacturer coupons.
• Snackwell 100 Calorie Packs (5 ct.): $.60 per box!
• Normal Price: $3.19
• Discounts:
• BOGO sale.
• $1/1 Manufacturer coupons.
• Fiber One Cereal (14.25 oz. box): $.16
• Normal Price: $4.09
• Discounts: 
• $2.50 Sale price.
• $1/3 Manufacturer coupon.
• $2/1 Store coupons
• Milk (from CVS): $.79! 
• Discounts:
• $3.79 Sale Price
• $1/1 Manufacturer coupon
• $2 ECBs from today's "Pledge to not throw away your ECBs" promotion.
• In addition to only paying $.79, I also received $1 ECB to use on my next purchase.

Total before special price savings and coupons: $97.57

Total Spent: $17.32 - 83% Savings Rate!

Thanks for taking the time to check out my deals. Don't forget to stop by my Dr. Scholl's Coupon Giveaway!

Deeply Devoted by Maggie Brendan

Peter Andersen is a simple farmer who longs for a bride of his own. Overlooking the local girls, Peter corresponds with a mail-order bride from Holland. Each letter he receives convinces him more that Catharine Olsen is the right woman for him. When she arrives, he is pleased with her beauty and sweetness. However, she failed to mention that she would be bringing her two younger sisters to live with them. Frustrated and unsure about this turn of events, Peter takes a leap of faith and marries Catharine the day after she arrives in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Settling into life as a married man and older brother-figure is undeniably difficult, but quite satisfying. However, when Peter's mother, Clara, conducts a private investigation, Catharine's secrets are exposed. Will their new relationship survive? Can Peter and Catharine learn to trust God and each other?

Deeply Devoted is the start of Maggie Brendan's Blue Willow Brides series. Filled with a tender romance between Peter and Catharine that many readers will enjoy, Deeply Devoted also addresses deeper issues of Catharine's previous failed marriage. This drama adds tension to the plot and keeps the plot from stagnating. Personally, I thought the story moved a little too slow, but other readers may feel differently. The characters of Deeply Devoted were well-developed and Clara's internal conflict was especially intriguing.

Click here to read an excerpt from Deeply Devoted by Maggie Brendan.

Available September 2011 at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Revell Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Life, In Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson

Kristen Jane Anderson's teen years were filled with one painful experience after another. Seeing no hope, she laid down on a set of railroad tracks and waited for the train to kill her. Unbelievably, after thirty-three freight cars ran over her, she was still alive – but missing her legs. Thus began a completely new part of her life. It was hailed as a miracle that she survived and Kristen's recovery was slow and painful. Only after her suicide attempt did Kristen come to know Jesus on a personal level. In Him, she found a reason to hope, to live, and to walk.

Life, In Spite of Me by Kristen Jane Anderson with Tricia Goyer is not a book I would want to read every year, but it is well worth reading at least once every few years. Despite the heavy topics it deals with, the book was a quick read. Kristen's experiences are related gently and authentically to the reader. However, I think the book and its readers could have benefited from having more information about Kristen's healing from the sexual assualt in addition to the details she gives of her physical healing and struggles with depression. I felt like most of her issues prior to the suicide attempt were consolidated under the blanket of depression and only mentioned occasionnally after the suicide attempt.

I found this book to be very encouraging as I personnally struggle with depression. I appreciated that the author boldly, but kindly declares the need to know Jesus as a personal Savior. Truly, her relationship with Jesus not only saved her soul and brought healing, but also enabled her to reach out to others struggling with the same issues. I think this book could help anyone who is dealing with depression or who knows someone dealing with depression. The encouragement notes directly from Kristen were especially kind. I recommend this to anyone who is looking for an inspirational read.




Click here to read an excerpt from Life, In Spite of Me: Extraordinary Hope After a Fatal Choice.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Blogging for Books as part of their blogger review program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Elusive 80% Savings Rate!

I did it yesterday.  I reached the elusive 80% savings rate.  Normally I save 60%-70% on my Publix shopping.

Here are some of my great buys:

• Whiskas Cat Food, 3lb. bag: Free!
• Normal Price: $4.49 
• Discounts:
• BOGO sale.
• $2/1 Manufacturer coupons.
• $1/1 Store coupon.
• Arm & Hammer Toothpaste, 6 oz. tube: $.50/Tube.
• Normal Price: $2.99
• Discounts:
• BOGO sale.
• $1/1 Manufacturer coupons.
• Motts for Tots Apple Juice, 64 oz. jar: Free!
• Normal Price: $2.75
• Discounts: 
• $2.00 Sale price.
• $1/1 Manufacturer coupon.
• $1/1 Store coupons.

Total before special prices savings and coupons: $52.41

Total Spent: $10.36!

Dr. Scholl's Coupon Giveaway #2

It's time for a coupon giveaway!

• What you get: Four coupons worth $4.00 each ($16 total) for Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles. Coupon expires December 31, 2011.

• How to enter: Leave a comment below with your email address. For an extra entry, become a follower of my blog and leave a second comment saying that you follow my blog.

The information I received states that the Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles retail for $12.99, but I saw them for $8.69 at my local Publix and they didn't appear to be on any special sale. I've never seen these on a BOGO sale, but if Publix ever did a BOGO on these, the coupons would score you an awesome deal!  Amazon also has these for $7.89.

Read my review of Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles here.

Giveaway ends Friday, October 7, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. Two winners will be chosen randomly on Saturday, October 8, 2011. If you win, I will email you to get your mailing address. Winners must respond to my email within 5 days. Giveaway is open only to those with U.S. mailing addresses.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a product sample, coupon, collateral or other special premium from BzzAgent. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Short & Sweet

Every week Crazy-for-Books hosts the Book Blogger Hop. Participants answer a question and then visit other blogs of fellow participants. This week's question is:

“As a book blogger, how do you introduce yourself in your profile?”

My answer: I keep it short and sweet.  I give my name, where I'm from, and a little pertinent information relating my love of reading to my blog.

What about you?

I'd Never Give Up Reading...

Every week Crazy-for-Books hosts the Book Blogger Hop. Participants answer a question and then visit other blogs of fellow participants. This week's question is:

“Many of us primarily read one genre of books, with others sprinkled in. if authors stopped writing that genre, what genre would you start reading? Or would you give up reading completely if you couldn't read that genre anymore?”

My answer: I could never, never give up reading.  My main genre is historical romances.  I would probably switch to contemporary romances or young adult fiction.  If fiction was completely gone, then I guess I would go for autobiographies.  I usually find them interesting.

What about you?

A Woman's Walk in Truth by Vonette Bright

It's hard to have confidence in someone that you don't know. That's why women who desire to live a confident, Christian life must draw near to the God they believe in. In A Woman's Walk in Truth: Devotions for Living a Confident Faith, Vonette Bright offers short, uplifting devotional readings for any woman who desires to grow in her faith. Stories, Scriptures, and commentaries provide insights for experiencing God's truths and a deeper relationship with Him.

I think A Woman's Walk in Truth: Devotions for Living a Confident Faith by Vonette Bright is the perfect little gift book for sisters, mothers, friends, etc. The front cover is attractive and the book addresses such a wide range of topics that anyone can benefit from using it. Personally, I prefer to read longer devotions each day, but these short ones are certainly handy on extra busy days. Each devotional reading is Biblically-based and supplemented by Scripture verses and “This I Believe” affirmative statements.

Click here to read an excerpt from A Woman's Walk in Truth: Devotions for Living a Confident Faith by Vonette Bright.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Dr. Scholl's Coupon Giveaway!

It's time for a coupon giveaway!

• What you get: Four coupons worth $4.00 each ($16 total) for Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles. Coupon expires December 31, 2011.

• How to enter: Leave a comment below with your email address. For an extra entry, become a follower of my blog and leave a second comment saying that you follow my blog.

The information I received states that the Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles retail for $12.99, but I saw them for $8.69 at my local Publix and they didn't appear to be on any special sale. I've never seen these on a BOGO sale, but if Publix ever did a BOGO on these, the coupons would score you an awesome deal!  Amazon also has these for $7.89.

Read my review of Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles here.

Giveaway ends Friday, September 9, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. Two winners will be chosen randomly on Saturday, September 10, 2011. If you win, I will email you to get your mailing address. Winners must respond to my email within 5 days. Giveaway is open only to those with U.S. mailing addresses.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a product sample, coupon, collateral or other special premium from BzzAgent. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Product Review: Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles

I love wearing high heels... and not just because I'm 5'0”. But even the nicest high heels can sometimes cause foot pain. Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles are doing their part to ensure that women can wear glamorous heels as long desired and feel good too. These particular insoles are designed to alleviate high heel discomfort by adding padding and arch support without appearing unattractive.

I've never used any sort of shoe insoles prior to trying out Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles, but the insoles do make wearing my high heels more comfortable. Because of my lack of experience, it took me at least thirty minutes to get used to having them in my shoes, but now I can slip on that pair of shoes and it feels perfectly normal to have them in it.

The clear gel insoles stick to the shoe and are small enough that they stay right under each foot. These photos show me wearing the shoes with and without the insoles. The insoles are removable so they can be used in more than one pair of shoes, but I don't recommend doing that too often. They lose some stickiness after being pulled off and reapplied so many times. Also, before you put in the insole, make sure the shoe is completely free of dust or dirt that will affect the ability of the insole to adhere properly.

Without insoles.

With Insoles

Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Insoles fit sizes 6 to 10 and are available in the foot care aisle of most drugstores, mass retailers and grocery stores. If you're interested in purchasing a pair these insoles, keep in mind that they have a money-back guarantee and make sure you enter my coupon giveaway. Four high-value ($4.00) coupons could be yours!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this pair of Dr. Scholl's For Her High Heel Inserts free from the BzzAgent. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Vision of Lucy by Margaret Brownley

Lucy Fairbanks' passion for photography gets her into unusual situations. She's not afraid to take a risk if the reward earns her the title of artist or photographer. After ending up as a witness/almost-victim in a stage coach robbery, Lucy is saved by the mysterious David Wolf who is believed to be a wild man by the locals of Rocky Creek. Motivated by both gratitude and selfishness, Lucy attempts to vindicate David by photographing him for the local newspaper. Unfortunately, her plan backfires and places David's life in danger. But this isn't the first time that the town's inhabitants have tried to kill David. As a half-white, half-Indian child, he was ostracized and endangered. Twenty years later, he's back with a vendetta. As Lucy and David grow closer to each other, the mystery of David's past becomes an insurrmountable hurdle. Will their young love survive? Or will prejudices of the past keep them apart forever? 

A Vision of Lucy by Margaret Brownley is the third book in the Rocky Creek Romance series, but it is fine to read as a stand-alone novel. This book combined two of my favorite pastimes (reading and photography), but I wish it had been more engaging. Some books will draw me back to them whenever I have a free moment. Unfortunately, this one didn't. However, I did enjoy the photography quotes and learned some information about very old photography practices. I thought the characters of Lucy and Caleb were well-written and I honestly couldn't guess who the “fourth boy” was until he was revealed.

A Vision of Lucy will probably be loved by some people and disdained as forgettable by others, a judgment depending solely upon personal taste. I recommend renting it from the library before buying.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this e-book free from Thomas Nelson via NetGallery. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Love My Publix Shopping!

The truth about Publix is:  By shopping the sales, you can get better prices on products than you can get at Wal-Mart. And you don't have to be a crazy couponer (no offense,  I just like to think of myself as a sensible couponer) to do it.

Last week I got Hamburger Helper from Winn-Dixie and this week I got four more boxes from Publix. It was on sale for $1 each and I used a $.80/4 coupon.  That brought my price down to $.80/item.

Knorr Side Dishes were also on sale for $1 each. By using a $1/2 coupon, I was able to get them for $.50 each. I love these because they are quick and easy to make and will not expire for a long time to come.

My last deal of the day was Bird's Eye Steamfresh Frozen Vegetables. I am all about quick and convenient. All I have to do with these is pop them in the microwave for about six minutes and I have perfectly steamed veggies.  These were on sale for 50% off and I used $.35/1 coupons to bring my price down to $.65 per bag.

Expectations, hmm?

Every week Crazy-for-Books hosts the Book Blogger Hop. Participants answer a question and then visit other blogs of fellow participants. This week's question is:

“What are you most looking forward to this fall/autumn season - A particular book release? Halloween? The leaves changing color? Cooler temperatures? A vacation?  (If your next season is other than fall/autumn, tell us about it and what you are most looking forward to in your part of the world!)”

My answer: Well, I live in Florida, so there really isn't cooler temperatures or changing of the leaves.  I think I am most looking forward to my anniversary in October. It's number eight for me and my hubby. We aren't going on vacation, but we will be visiting The Melting Pot - an classy, local fondue restaurant. Yum!

What about you?