Friday, June 28, 2013

Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter with Review

BAREFOOT SUMMER BY DENISE HUNTER


Madison’s heart has been closed for years. But one summer can change everything.
In the years since her twin brother’s drowning, Madison McKinley has struggled to put it behind her. Despite the support of her close-knit family and her gratifying job as a veterinarian in their riverside town, the loss still haunts her.
To find closure, Madison sets out to fulfill her brother’s dream of winning the town’s annual regatta. But first she has to learn to sail, and fast.
Beckett O’Reilly knows Madison is out of his league, but someone neglected to tell his heart. Now she needs his help—and he’ll give it, because he owes her far more than she’ll ever know.
Madison will do anything—even work with the infamous Beckett O’Reilly—to reach her goal. And as much as she’d like to deny it, the chemistry between them is electrifying. As summer wanes, her feelings for him grow and a fledgling faith takes root in her heart.
But Beckett harbors a secret that will test the limits of their new love. Can their romance survive summer’s challenges? And will achieving her brother’s dream give Madison the peace she desperately seeks?

MY REVIEW-This was an excellent book that was entertaining and yet thought provoking. A clean sweet romance that I would feel comfortable giving to anyone. The christianity is minimal and not preachy. But it is definitely there. The main character is Madison. She is a twin who lost her brother Michael several years before. It is very heartbreaking reading her story. But one thing Michael always wanted to do was sail a boat in the Regatta. And so she plans on winning it. Even if she doesn't know how to swim:) Madison signs up to take lessons from a professional but he needs to leave for different jobs. Turns out the one who ends up teaching her how to sail is Beckett. The bad boy from school who has now turned into a very handsome man. Of course, he also broke her sisters heart so she won't even think about acting on the feelings he invokes. 

The story line is very good and I finished this in one day. Really pulls you into the story to find out what happened that fateful day her brother died, why her sister really left, and what will happen between Madison and Beckett. It is kind of a sweet romance with many little side stories as well. Loved it and can't wait for the next one!


**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Three Reasons to Call an Exterminator


Nothing is quite as intrusive as a home infestation by rodents or insects. You don’t feel comfortable in your own home, and you and your family are being exposed to all kinds of bacteria and infection.

If the problem has gotten to the point where you can no longer control it, it might be time to call a local exterminator in Columbus.

Of all infestations, the following three are the most dangerous to your health and quality of life.

1. Bedbug Infestation

Perhaps the most insidious of all household pets, the bedbug lives in floorboards and small cracks in the walls. This makes them difficult to eradicate.
Bedbugs inhabit mattresses and draw blood while you’re sleeping. They cause disease and are considered a public health problem by both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
If you have bedbugs, it’s best to call an exterminator. They can be difficult to identify and completely eliminate.

2. Cockroaches

Cockroaches don’t feed on blood, but they’re equally dangerous to health. Dirty and often carrying bacterial infections, cockroaches should be eliminated immediately.
Cockroaches can strike at any time of year, but are most likely to invade the home in the winter because they prefer warm environments. Like bedbugs, they live in cavities in the wall and floor. They are particularly likely to live near the kitchen, as even the smallest crumbs of food attract them.
Cockroaches are easy to spot, so as soon as you see one, call an exterminator.

3. Mice and Rats

Of all household pests, people are particularly afraid of mice and rats. As rodents, these pests are more capable of spreading disease and destroying your property.
Mice are more likely to invade your home, living in pantries and garages where they can nibble on cereal and even cardboard boxes. You can spot mouse infestation by feces, urine, and bite marks on soft woods.
Rats, meanwhile, typically live outside. However, by chewing through wires and telephone cables, rats are a possible fire hazard.

Finding an Exterminator


If you’re infested by any of these three household pests, it’s time to find a local exterminator in Columbus. Look up local listings online and cross-reference them with Better Business Bureau ratings to make sure you’re hiring someone trustworthy.

This is a guest post provided for the enjoyment of Giveaway Lady readers. 


**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Three Common Tooth Myths Revealed


It is amazing the things that you can read on the Internet about your oral hygiene. Before you adopt any practice that seems new or odd, you should always discuss the matter with a dentist like the professionals at Dunkel & Kraklow Quality Dentistry. It can save you all kinds of issues with your teeth later on.

You Don’t Have to Brush Baby Teeth


Most people nowadays will agree that baby teeth have to be brushed, but there are still many patients that bring their children to the dentist with unbrushed teeth. While these baby teeth will fall out, brushing teeth early is important for a few reasons. First, it starts kids out with good brushing habits from the beginning. It teaches them to value having a clean mouth, and it will also help establish good technique before their permanent teeth come in.
Second, it protects the permanent teeth. If your child has too much plaque and decay on baby teeth, it can affect the permanent teeth while they are still resting in the gum. Bacteria will usually not penetrate the gum unless the decay travels deep into the existing tooth. That is why a bi-yearly trip to the dentist is important. If decay is present, it can be fixed so that it will not continue to destroy the tooth and possibly affect the new tooth as well.

X-Rays Are Harmful


There are many people that choose to forgo x-rays because they are afraid of the radiation. There is actually not a lot to be afraid of. In fact, the amount of radiation that you could receive from a set of dental x-rays is about the same amount of radiation you would receive sitting out in the sun for a day.
X-rays are the way that a dentist can find any existing decay in the mouth. There is no other substitute for monitoring teeth. If you are nervous about getting x-rays, you can have a special apron placed on top of you during the x-rays that will block any possible radiation. It is the same apron that is used for pregnant women and other people that may be sensitive to x-rays.

Eat What You Want as Long as You Brush


If you think that you can eat whatever you want as long as you brush right after, you are wrong. Sticky and highly-sugared food will break down teeth if not eaten in moderation. Also, the food that you take into your body will affect your teeth as well. If you don’t eat healthy, you are weakening your entire body, including your teeth.

There are many dental myths that can cause you to damage your teeth. The best things that you can do for your teeth are brush, floss, and visit a dentist like the dentists at Dunkel &Kraklow Quality Dentistry. Following those three simple steps will keep your mouth healthy and free of decay.



This is a guest post written for the readers of Giveaway Lady. 


**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

FIRST WildCard Blog Tour for The Art of the Follower


It is time for a FIRST Wild Card Tour book review! If you wish to join the FIRST blog alliance, just click the button. We are a group of reviewers who tour Christian books.  A Wild Card post includes a brief bio of the author and a full chapter from each book toured.  The reason it is called a FIRST Wild Card Tour is that you never know if the book will be fiction, non~fiction, for young, or for old...or for somewhere in between!  Enjoy your free peek into the book!


You never know when I might play a wild card on you!





Today's Wild Card author is:



Dag Heward-Mills



and the book:



The Art of the Follower: Using the Lessons of Jesus to Become the Follower God Wants Us to Be


Carpenters Son Publishing (June 1, 2013)



***Special thanks to Rick Roberson for sending me a review copy.***

MY REVIEW-I have to tell you, I was really hoping this was a book I would like. I enjoy reading some other books than the fiction and it stimulates the brain and thought. But in all honesty, I was very disappointed. I flip the book open after it comes in and the first chapter I come to is one about Esther. Now if there are any younger people reading this, or you are single, I would urge you to stop reading. For a woman, Esther is a chapter you would immediately read, right? So some of it was good. I was really getting into it. Until he hits the part about how Esther had to have been using sex to get to the king. Excuse me? He then goes further about how you have to be an active and gymnastic partner in the bedroom. Umm, ladies, this is not a book about marriage or even a book for ladies only. This is not acceptable in my eyes!! I could not believe some of the things that were in here and I would feel uncomfortable posting most of what it said. And if my younger sister had picked it up and read this? I would be very upset. I had a hard time posting this negative review but I can't give it a positive look, at all.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:



 As the author of more than 75 books distributed worldwide, Pastor and Medical Doctor, Dag Heward-Mills also leads a worldwide ministry and presides as Bishop of Lighthouse Chapel International, with almost 1,300 churches spread across the globe in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Australia, including 63 churches in 24 U.S. states.  Heward-Mills holds highly-successful evangelistic outreaches throughout Africa and other emerging countries and leads a myriad of other endeavors, including a Medical Missions Team, Bible training centers, schools, a hospital, an orphanage, church leader conferences, a host of media outlets including an on-line television site and more.

Visit the author's website.


SHORT BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Some twenty centuries ago, Peter and his brother Andrew were the first to respond when they heard Jesus say, "Come, follow me ..." Since that day, millions have answered that same noble call to follow in his steps.

However, in today's Christian culture of shallow commitments and half-hearted discipleship, where many believers deem it their right to choose when, where and how far they will follow, unconditional obedience is often perceived as a legalistic and lifeless proposition. In his newest book, "The Art of the Follower" (summer 2013), Dag Heward-Mills, world-renowned pastor, author and evangelist, assures readers of the joys of unbridled pursuit of God and encourages them to follow from a sincere heart of gratitude for his great grace and love.




Product Details:
List Price: $14.99
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Carpenters Son Publishing (June 1, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0988396270
ISBN-13: 978-0988396272



AND NOW...THE FIRST CHAPTER:




P ART I

Following is Eternally Significant



FOLLOWING!

At first glance the practice appears innocent and simple enough.



. . safe . . . and usually rewarding. But, beware my friend! Following is actually a very powerful practice . . . frequently risky . . . sometimes life-threatening . . . and always consequential.



In everyday language we often hear and speak about following.  Notice these common expressions:



Follow the leader
You’re following too close Just follow me!
Don’t follow me. I’m lost too! (bumper sticker) Follow your nose
She/he has quite a following Follow the money
Follow directions
I think I’m being followed I was just following orders
Follow-up Follow-through




So, who are you following? I don’t mean breaking news, a favourite performer or sports team. I’m asking about the beliefs you follow -- the ones that shape your personal values and attitudes. What defines the true significance of your life? Who do you look to for guidance? Which teacher has the answers that satisfy your soul? Whether intentionally or unknowingly, everyone is following someone.



If we’re truthful, the first answer is usually “me.”  I follow me! Indeed, every one of us begins in life following ourselves, our own wants, our desires, our personal passions. Eventually, most of us also notice the value in altruistic efforts that bless others. But, truth be told, without the “feel good” rewards of these activities, we eventually struggle to sustain them. For, at our core we are all sons of Adam and products of “the Fall.” Our carnal hearts march to the drumbeat of “self” -- alienated from the Maker who created us to know and enjoy an intimate and personal relationship with Him. It is our untamed “me” -- our selfish rebellion -- that bars us from this righteous pleasure.



Paul declares in Romans 3:10, “There is none righteous, no not one.” The prophet Isaiah penned, “All we like sheep have gone astray, we have turned everyone to his own way” (Isaiah 53:6). Fortunately, he prophetically adds the solution: “but the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.” Jesus said of himself in Matthew 20:28, “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” You may have recited from your childhood the familiar words of John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”



This promise of salvation -- the redemption opportunity each of us needs so badly -- was fulfilled in the life and death of our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. This salvation gift from God himself becomes real for you when you receive it. “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).





Salvation cannot be acquired by working diligently to imitate Christ. Ephesians 2:8-10 instructs us, “For it is by grace [unmerited favor] you have been saved, through faith -- and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God -- not by works so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God pre- pared in advance for us to do.”  When correctly understood, this amazing redemption and new standing with God daily motivates our love and obedience to Jesus Christ.



The true Christian believer “follows” Jesus Christ. And following him is serious business -- a life-long commitment to being his disciple as a mature follower. Some twenty centuries ago, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew were the first to hear and respond when Jesus said, “Come, follow me . . .” (Matthew 4:19).



Since that day, thousands of millions have followed their example -- heeding Christ’s eternity-changing invitation to “Follow Me!” Jesus is the only worthy one to follow because he is the Christ, the only begotten of the Father and the only Saviour of all mankind.



Over the next five chapters, I pray your mind will be illuminated and your heart will thrill to a deeper understanding of the Art of the Follower.





CHAPTER 1



What Is The Art of Following?



Throughout your Christian journey, many leaders will request your allegiance. Always the first question you must ask is, “But, who are you following?” If, upon examination, that leader’s life validates that he or she is truly following Jesus, then you may follow safely. However, one must never lose sight of the truth that only Jesus Christ can forgive your sins and one-day present you faultless before the Father. So, first and always, follow Jesus!



Defining The Art Of Following



• The art of following is the art of copying

• The art of emulating someone

• The art of imitating something

• The art of trying to be like someone

• The art of reproduction

• The art of cloning

• The art of becoming a double

• The art of becoming a twin

• The art of catching up

• The art of surging forward



Success Follows Following



Children naturally and instinctively employ the art of following. By copying, children surge forward with leaps and bounds -- learning to speak complex languages in very short periods of time. Following, copying or emulating accomplishes almost all the learning younger children do.

Following, however, isn’t just a personal practice of individuals. Many nations -- rich for centuries -- became so by following. Europe and America largely used the art of following to become among the oldest and most prosperous nations in the world. Through emulation, each European country became like their neighbours and developed into an almost identical wealthy state. Their roads, buildings, and other infrastructures are similar. Their banking and economic systems are almost identical. Their military capabilities match. The lifestyles of the people and the conditions of living are similar in each of these countries. Indeed, through emulation, the nations caught up with neighbours -- refusing to be left behind in the race for prosperity.



Similarly, nations more recently rich also employed following. Taiwan, China, and Korea are well known for their ability to follow and copy. Indeed, most nations that have become wealthy in the last fifty years are masters at the art of following. These wealthy nations are well known for their ability to copy. Indeed, many of their products are clearly imitations. They produced cars that were virtually exact replicas of well-known European models. The Koreans are not embarrassed by modelling their Daewoo cars after Opel, and the Ssangyong after Mercedes Benz and the Hyundai after Toyota. Through their shameless copying, they quickly caught up and surged forward to become leading carmakers.



In almost every field of technology and endeavour, they have caught up and surged forward, creating wealth that others could only dream of. Those who were ashamed to copy could only stand by as the masters of copying surged ahead to become millionaires and billionaires.



Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Used the Art of Following



Jesus, too, used the art of following to transform illiterate fishermen into leaders and managers of a worldwide movement. If the Son of God would use the art of following as His method of training, it must be the highest and most superior method of learning, training and teaching.



The art of following is the art of imitating and copying someone. The art of following is the art of becoming like the person you admire. The art of following is the art of becoming a replica of a person that is ahead of you. Through the careful and thoughtful use of the art of following, you will be able to catch up and surge forward in your life and your ministry. Even more importantly, you will become a wiser, more mature, more passion- ate, and more effective disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ.





**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Thursday, June 27, 2013

A Vet Should Treat Your Pet with Care and Concern


Your pet is an important member of your family. Because of this, you want to make sure that your animals are always sufficiently taken care of. You give them food, shelter, and love. However, just like you have to schedule regular doctor appointments to prevent and fix illnesses, your pet also needs a doctor to ensure he stays healthy. A veterinarian is a doctor for your pet. A Columbus vet can help take care of all your small animal’s needs. Before you visit the vet learn some important items you should look for and questions you should ask before you visit the vet.



  1. First, ask what type of animals the vet specializes in. Some vets treat cats, dogs, and other small animals. Other vets treat larger farm animals like horses. Even small animals like rabbits or ferrets have special needs. Make sure your vet treats your specific breed before scheduling an appointment.

  1. Get a feel for your veterinarians and their staff. You want to make sure your vet truly loves animals and puts their needs first over cashing a paycheck. Some veterinarians can charge a large amount of money for basic services, making it difficult to pay for complex procedures. If a veterinarian truly loves what he is doing, he understands that keeping prices reasonable makes it possible for pet owners to afford all the recommended care for your animal.

  1. Make sure that the clinic is clean and welcoming. If the office is clean and well taken care of, then the veterinarian and his or her staff probably are clean and sanitary when touching your animal and sanitizing equipment. Exams should be comfortable and roomy enough to make you and your pet feel comfortable.

  1. Medicine, equipment, and procedures are constantly changing and improving. You want to make sure your vet stays current with new information and equipment.

  1. Many vets understand that you are busy and your time is limited. Offices can be open on Saturday, and you can also drop your pet off after work, and board her at the clinic overnight so the vet can examine her the next day.

A Columbus vet offers a great combination of gentle and concerned care, coupled with up-to date technology, procedures, and medicine. The office and exams rooms are always clean and comfortable and it won’t break your bank to properly take care your pet’s health. 

This is a guest post written for the readers of Giveaway Lady. 


**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Breaking Down Bankruptcy Stereotypes

It is easy to feel helpless when confronting serious financial problems in your life. The nature of banking and credit is that lenders benefit most when borrowers become less able to repay their debts—if everyone paid all their bills on time and in full, lenders would earn very little in interest. As a result, many types of credit—especially the types available to people with lower credit scores—are set up to charge such high interest rates and fees that small debts can very quickly escalate into overwhelming financial black holes. It might be tempting to shrink away from dealing with the situation, but the longer you delay, the worse it can become. If are worried you might be in over your head, consider seeking the advice of a St. Louis bankruptcy lawyer.

Bankruptcy for Beginners


Bankruptcy is a scary thought for many people. But despite the stereotypes you hear, most people know very little about how bankruptcy really works. Bankruptcy is not an opportunity for you to give your creditors the bird and walk away from your “mess.” But bankruptcy is also not move that will force you to give up everything you own and leave you with ruinous credit. The reality is somewhere in the middle of these extremes. Declaring bankruptcy can eliminate not all types of debt. In fact, in certain bankruptcy cases, the individual ends up paying most or all of what they owe (in a restructured, manageable payment plan). Most of the time, individuals that file for bankruptcy are able to keep all of their property. And while your credit score will certainly take a hit, most people are eligible for many types of loans within 2-3 years of filing.

Types of Bankruptcy


Bankruptcy law is actually a fairly complex legal practice. There are multiple types of bankruptcy filings, and each are subject to different eligibility requirements. It is crucial to understand which type of bankruptcy you would be eligible for—and what the implications of this filing mean for you—before you make the decision. For some people, alternatives to bankruptcy would make more sense in alleviating their financial stresses. An experienced St. Louis bankruptcy lawyer will be able to explain the different options to you. Being able to hand over some portion of this burden to a professional can give you the peace of mind you need to confront your situation.

This is a guest post written for the readers of Giveaway Lady. 



**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

How to Hire Pest Control Experts


Households that are experiencing pest control issues sometimes feel at the mercy of mice, roaches, ants, and other pesky creatures that invade the home. Sometimes no matter what measures you take to protect your home from an unwanted invasion, you still end up with a problem. For residents of big cities like Milwaukee, pest control companies can help you manage this problem. When you open up your phone book or hop online to find one of these companies, here are a few things to consider.

Professional Memberships
Pest control companies belong to national organizations and associations just like other professionals. Belonging to federal, state, or local associations, the company is held to certain standards. These standards not only protect you and your home, but also protect the safety of the pest control professional. Look for companies that are members of the National Pest Management Association.
Licensed and Insured
It is equally as important that the pest professional you work with be licensed and insured. Licensed professionals receive continuing education training to keep their licenses current. This means that they are up-to-date on the latest technology and safety procedures to keep you and your family safe. An insured professional is important, too. Although it may not seem like much can go wrong when setting a mouse trap or fumigating a house, the truth is that accidents happen. If the pest professional you have hired lacks insurance coverage you may be left paying for the damages to your home and taking care of the medical bills for the professional.
Recognize Differences
Not all companies charge the same rate for their service. Make sure you get multiple bids, especially if the price seems too high. Also, keep in mind that companies do not always take care of the same type of pests. For instance, if you believe you have a terminate infestation make sure you only work with a company that has extensive knowledge and expertise in this area of bug control. Pests, like termites, can create an unbelievable amount of damage and it takes certain techniques to rid a home of termites. Hiring a company that does not know how to properly eradicate these pests will only exacerbate your problems and cost you a lot of money. In Milwaukee, pest control companies should be hired that are equipped to handle you specific bug problem, not create new problems.

Enjoy this guest post provided for the readers of Giveaway Lady!


**DISCLOSURE: Enjoy this guest post provided for the readers of Giveaway Lady! Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Kids Dentistry—Helpful Tips for Kids


If your child is terrified of going to his or her first dental appointment, then don’t worry. Although it might seem as if your child is never going to step foot inside of his or her dental office, there are several easy ways that you can help your child make his or her first dental appointment go smoothly. From introducing teeth brushing from an early age to role-playing dental appointments, here are some of the best tips to prepare your little ones for their first dental appointment. So whether it’s children’s dentistry in Simi Valley or in San Diego, here’s what you need to know about your child’s oral health and how you can make going to the dentist a fun and exciting experience—for everybody.



Introduce Brushing from an Early Age


The more accustomed your child is to brushing his or her teeth, the less likely he or she will be to throw a tantrum when the first dental appointment comes around. If your child is used to the process of brushing and flossing, then they’re going to be more comfortable going to the dentist. Simply explain to your child exactly why they’re going to the dentist and exactly what is going to happen; chances are, if they’ve been exposed to brushing and flossing, they’re going to have very few fears if any at all. Additionally, stress the importance of good oral hygiene to your children. If your child is old enough, you can explain to them why it’s so important to brush and floss teeth. If your child is still young, you can try using a chart that rewards good brushing behaviors. Whichever you choose, just make sure that you expose your child to good dental habits from early on.

Role-Play Your Child’s First Appointment


If your child is scared witless of going to the dentist, you can easily help them overcome this fear by role-playing their first dental appointment. Go through the different steps of checking for cavities, cleaning, and flossing. If your child knows what to expect from his or her first dental appointment, then he or she will be much less likely to be frightened. From children’s dentistry in Simi Valley to children’s dentistry in San Diego, these are some of the best ways to help your child become used to the idea of going to the dentist on a regular basis.

This is a guest post provided for the readers of Giveaway Lady. 


**DISCLOSURE: This is a guest post provided for the readers of Giveaway Lady.  Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Four Tips for Building a Good Relationship with Your Plumber


Unless you happen to be married to one, most people would like to minimize the amount of time they spend with a plumber. However, even if your ideal relationship with your plumber in Fort Worth is no relationship at all, chances are that you will need their help at some point. When water starts spewing, you will be glad you put in the effort to build a relationship of mutual trust and respect with an experienced plumber. Here are four tips to help prevent plumbing crises and keep those that do occur as painless as possible.

      1.  Mind Your Drains: One of the most common plumbing problems is also the simplest to avoid—clogged drains and backed-up pipes. In the kitchen, avoid letting large chunks of food—particularly anything very fibrous or greasy—go down the drain (exercising caution is wise, even if you have a garbage disposal). In the bathroom, use a drain strainer or hair snare to trap hairs. Better yet, take a moment to clear hair and soap with a paper towel.

      2. Know How to Shut Off Your Water: It is always good to have an emergency action plan, and your plumbing is no exception to this rule. You should know where your water main is located and how to shut it off. If serious flooding is occurring, you cannot wait until an emergency plumber arrives without experiencing significant water damage.

      3.  Respect Your Plumber’s Professionalism: If your house is flooding, washing machine is broken, or you are experiencing any other kind of plumbing nightmare, you are likely to be a bit stressed and frazzled. However, this is not an excuse to ask the plumber to keep an eye on a child, move something heavy, or any other non-plumbing-related tasks.

      4.  Ask Questions: Your plumber will typically be happy to answer questions or perform other simple (plumbing-related) tasks after he or she has finished the project you paid for. A running dialogue will signal that you take your home’s plumbing maintenance more seriously, and you will benefit from the extra attention.

With any luck, these tips will help make your next experience with a plumber in Fort Worth a bit more pleasant for everyone involved.

This is a guest post provided for readers of Giveaway Lady.


**DISCLOSURE: This is a guest post provided for readers of Giveaway Lady. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Those Overgrown Branches Could Use a Tree Service

When you moved into your current home, the trees in your front yard seemed to perfectly compliment the home. Fast forward 10 years and those trees have become wild giants. These large trees are particularly dangerous because they’re so close to your home; the branches crash into the upstairs windows whenever there is a small gust of wind. But if there is any kind of extreme weather, those trees could take out your house! Rather than wait for the trees to grow even taller, you’re better off calling a tree service in Crofton to facilitate a solution that lets you keep the trees but reduce the dangers they now pose.

Weather Woes

Extreme weather is a pretty common occurrence. Every winter there is the threat of a Nor’easter blowing through. When you have large, overgrown trees too close to your home, that storm front poses a whole new danger. Heavy snows and ice storms when combined with wind can spell disaster for you. Any branches that hang over your home can come crashing through your roof, causing injuries to your loved ones. If you’re lucky enough to have no one injured, you would still have some hefty repair bills to face. Just imagine the amount of damage that would be done to your home; you would have a lot of damage to your roof, which means that all that lovely snow and ice would come crashing into your home along with the tree. That means water damage can be added to the structural damages. See how it adds up?

No DIY This Time

Now that you’re convinced to get rid of those trees, you’re probably trying to figure out how to do it as cheaply as possible. When you have trees as large and imposing as yours, you need to err on the side of caution and hire a professional to do any trimming or removal. It’s a complicated process to remove heavy branches when they hang over a structure, one that’s better left to someone who knows what they’re doing and has the equipment to remove them safely. Even if you have equipment you could use to cut the tree, you still can’t access the branches safely by yourself. Consult with a tree service in Crofton and they will come out and give you a free estimate. They will be able to determine which branches need to come down or if the tree itself needs to be moved. By consulting a professional, you can rest easy knowing you’re avoiding disaster and protecting your family; all at the same time.

This is a guest post provided for the enjoyment of Giveaway Lady readers. 


**DISCLOSURE:This is a guest post provided for the enjoyment of Giveaway Lady readers. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

How to Have a Smooth Divorce


Most divorces have a reputation of being a messy and complicated process. This is because the people involved are often angry and have many things they need to give up that they are not willing to part with. If you want to have a smooth divorce, there are some things you and your soon-to-be ex need to work out. Call your Miami divorce attorney and get started on some simple proceedings.

What to Do Before Calling the Attorney


Before you get started on anything, you will need to let go of any anger or resentment you may have toward the other person. This may be difficult if you do not agree with what is happening or if they have done something to hurt you, but just let go enough that you can go through the proceedings with a clear head. Always remember that if you make it easier for them, it will make it easier on yourself as well. The two of you will have to decide together that you want things to go as smoothly as possible. Agree to call attorneys of your own so that the proceedings will go by simply, but not to get as much away from each other as possible.

What to Do After Calling the Attorney


After calling an attorney, you should each make a list of the things you want. Try to choose the items that are the most important to you. This way, you can each get what matters the most, and then proceed in splitting the things that do not matter as much. You will need to be fair in larger matters, such as the ownership of a house or the custody of children. Because every situation is different, you will need to consider what your options are for these more difficult decisions. Talk through the options and try to find the one that works the best. If one or both of you starts getting overly upset, walk away for the day and come back to it later. Listen to the advice of your Miami divorce attorney through the process; they know what works best.


This is a guest post provided for the enjoyment of the readers of Giveaway Lady.


**DISCLOSURE: This is a guest post provided for the enjoyment of the readers of Giveaway Lady. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Great Clothing Pieces to Have This Summer


When it comes to summer, you want to look your best. All winter, you are able to get by wearing comfortable sweaters and sweatshirts. In the summer, it is all about the style and the fashion. If you want to look great this summer without having to break the bank, you should consider getting a few of these summer staples. Go online and buy here now.

Comfortable Skirts


The first thing you should get is a skirt. Actually, you should get a few of them. The best way to look your best and beat the summer heat is by wearing a great skirt. You can wear a long maxi skirt or a short, flirty skirt. Either way, you will look cute and feel cool all summer long. Right now there are great prints and patterns to help break up the boring monotony of plain-colored skirts. And best of all, you can match a comfortable t-shirt with just about any skirt to make it cool and casual.

Great Swimsuits

Hopefully you will be spending a lot of time at the beach and pool this summer. Because of this, you will want to get a few great swimsuits. Not all swimsuits are created equal either. Some suits may look great on the rack but don’t go so great with your body type. Try a few different styles to see which looks best with your particular body. You also want to be sure you are comfortable in it. If you aren’t comfortable in your swimsuit, how fun is it going to be wearing it all day at the beach? Find something cute and comfortable to ensure a great time at the beach.

Accessories

Lastly, you want to get a few great accessories. Using accessories is an easy way to amp up an outfit without having to spend too much. You can get a cute pair of sunglasses, a beach bag, a great hat, or anything else that will go with your outfits. Accessories are a must-have in your summer wardrobe. If you aren’t sure where to shop for all of these great things at a decent price, you can go online and buy here

This is a guest post for the readers of Giveaway Lady. 


**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Got Rough Skin? Try Zim's Crack Creme!

This is a post sponsored by Zim's Products. 

Hi friends! Today I have a product that I am pretty excited about. This isn't something like a new product or tech gadget, but it is a really nice beauty item. Zim's is a company that sells naturally-based products. If you browse their website you will notice something called, Zim's Crack Creme. And this is the product I was sent to review. I was also sent the Max-Freeze but haven't quite had a reason to use it. Hopefully that will come up soon.

For the Crack Creme, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I use a lot of different lotions and have found one that I enjoy and it seems to work for me. So I was kind of iffy on using this one and if it would work well. I like something that is rich but not too greasy. It just makes me feel nasty if my hands feel like they have a grease on them for 20 minutes after I have put it on. So, my expectations were high and I was not disappointed. This is a very rich lotion that is mainly to be used for really cracked and rough skin. It was originally made for cement workers and those people who have work hardened hands. You know the people I am talking about.

On my hands it lasted longer than I thought it would. I like to work outside and I also play volleyball and racquetball which can be hard on the hands. I applied the creme and my first thought was that I liked the scent. It is very subtle and not overpowering. Any guy could use this without a problem and the ladies might like that it is a light scent. The other thing I really liked was how well it worked. I used this once a day for about a week or so and by the end of that time, I had no rough spots and no callouses at all. It is rich but light.

So overall I was impressed with this product. Zim's seems to sell quality natural based items that would fit in any cabinet. Check them out for your skin needs.



**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Skip the Line Paris Facebook Contest and 2 Voucher Giveaway!!

Hi readers! I have a quick contest to tell you about and then a giveaway of my own that you will want to hear about:) Easy Pass Tours has a contest on Facebook called Skip the Line Paris. The concept of this tour program is being able to skip through the lines because of the passes you have. You know how it is with any tourist attraction. The lines can take longer than the trip there and you stand around waiting for an hour or two before you can even get to see the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre tour. Needless to say, that is where Easy Pass Tours comes in. Save your time and skip the line is their motto!

The contest they have on FB is for two people to win a trip to Paris. We are talking voucher for airfare, a hotel room for 5 nights and seven different tours! This is a very sweet contest and I am hoping all of you go sign up for it. I would so love to take a trip like this. It would also make a nice gift.


Now for my giveaway, Easy Pass Tours has offered the Skip The Line-Eiffel Tower Tour voucher for two. This means if you are taking a trip to Paris anytime in the next year, you know someone who is planning a trip, or anything where you will be in Paris, please enter. The voucher does not expire until June 30th of 2014. This will be one person receiving two tickets. So please make sure you read the rules listed.

I am not responsible for this giveaway. This is all through Easy Pass Tours and will be fulfilled through them. The giveaway will end 7/8 and winner will be chosen through Random.org. They will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.


a Rafflecopter giveaway




**DISCLOSURE: This giveaway is being hosted by Easy Pass Tours and will be fulfilled by them. No compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Friday, June 21, 2013

Michael Angelo's Review and 2 Winner Giveaway!!

Hey everyone! I apologize about the delay with getting this posted. It just seems like the week has flown by and things have been hectic. But I promised to get up my Michael Angelo's review/giveaway this week so here it is. I also haven't had time to make everything so there will be another post next week with one last review. So today I have one review and the giveaway where two winners will receive two free coupons. Check it out below!!

For my review I received some coupons to get free Michael Angelo's frozen meals. For my review today I have the new Pepperoni and Salami Flatbread. Now these flatbreads are brand new, at least around here. I didn't even realize they were out! But I will definitely be purchasing these in the future!! With a couple different varieties out, it would make a great snack or meal. They are supposed to make a meal for two but when I made mine up I used it as an afternoon snack for several people. If you were doing it as a meal I would pair it with a garden or italian salad and maybe some garlic breadsticks, or even a cheesy bread.

I heated the oven and put these in for a quick snack one afternoon while some of the family was doing games. It heated evenly and I was pretty happy with how it looked. I love a good flatbread but there has to be enough toppings on it and this had a good amount of cheese and meat. The only thing I wish is that there was a little more sauce. But that is nothing major because it still tasted delicious. When it was done I cut it into slices so everyone could have some. The responses were varied but everyone agreed that it tasted good and they would love to try the other flavors! I was impressed!

Now the flavor was delicious and my biggest joy with Michael Angelo's frozen meals is that they are fast and taste homemade. I can throw it in if I don't have time to prepare a meal or I can use it as a snack like I did with the flatbread. But they always taste great and I know that the family will like them. My next post will have the Chicken Piccata in it:) I can't wait to taste this one! Also remember to check out my Dreaming of Italy Contest post that you won't want to miss!!

Readers, two of you will win two free coupons for Michael Angelo's frozen food. This giveaway will end 7/6 and winners will be chosen through Random.org. They will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen. US ONLY!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway





**DISCLOSURE: I was given a free product in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given, and all thoughts are 100% mine. Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

How to Choose the Perfect Vehicle for You


Buying a new (or previously-owned) vehicle should be a fun and exciting experience, not something that turns into a drag. However, many people find that their once hopeful anticipation of buying a new car quickly becomes a stressful situation that they’d soon like to forget. How does this happen? More importantly, how can you avoid letting this happen to you? There are a few things you can do that will help your car-shopping experience go easily and smoothly. So whether you decide to purchase from a Hendrick Buick GMC Cadillac dealership or your local car dealership, here are a few tips to help you stay sane throughout the process.

Set a Budget before You Go


It might be a pain to sit down and really go through your finances, but doing so will save you stress later on down the line when you have trouble making your car payment. In addition, having a pre-set budget before you go to the car dealership will also make it much easier to choose a vehicle best suited for you. Although you might be thinking that you’re doing well in the finances department and you don’t need to set a budget (whether it’s a high budget or a low one), it’s critical that you do so. Having a pre-ordained budget will save you time and energy once you get to the car dealership.

Make a List of Top Priorities


Again, this may not be something that you want to do, but it will make your vehicle search much easier if you do. You’d be surprised by the amount of variety in vehicles that dealerships have. If you don’t have a list of priorities that you’re looking for in a vehicle, you’ll quickly be overwhelmed. Take just a few minutes to jot down the things you absolutely must have; this can include extra trunk space, a backseat, four-wheel drive, and so on. Then, when you get to the dealership, you can let the dealer know exactly what it is that you’re looking for. Whether you buy from a Hendrick Buick GMC Cadillac dealership or your local dealership, this is one step that will make the process go smoothly. 


This is a guest post provided for the enjoyment of Giveaway Lady readers. 


**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**

Information a Buyer Should Know before a Short Sale


A short sale is a method of selling homes that has recently become popular. This method of selling a home occurs when the amount of money owed on the home in question is less than it is worth. Because of the rise of this method for selling homes, many people are now purchasing homes through this method rather than more traditional means. However, there are certain things that a purchaser should be aware of before they choose to make an offer on any house available through this new method. Two of the things that any potential purchaser should know are a real estate agent who has worked with the selling entity before, and how much the homeowner owes on the property itself.


Knowledgable Estate Agent

It is important to have a real estate agent who has dealt with the seller's intermediary before. The seller may have employed a real estate agent of their own, or they may choose to let their lender conduct the process for them. It is important that your own real estate agent have conducted business with the seller's intermediary because that will enable your real estate agent to collect as much information as possible before the transaction. This information is necessary because it will smooth the process of the transaction and provide you with any warnings about problems that may appear along the way.

Amount Owed

One of the pieces of information that a connected real estate agent should be able to uncover is how much the homeowner still owes on their property. A short sale only occurs when the homeowner owes more on the property than the property is worth. The transaction of the house is occurring so that the lender can recoup as much of the home's value as possible in order to pay off the debt. Knowing how much the homeowner owes on the house is crucial to the house’s transaction because that will tell you how much the lender prefers to make back. Because the lender is looking to recover on their own losses, it is likely that they will only accept a certain fraction of the amount they need.


This is a guest post provided for the readers of Giveaway Lady.


**DISCLOSURE: Please read my full disclosure policy HERE.**
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