Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Adopting an Adult Dog - Part 2


Happy Wordless Wednesday, everyone! I know that this is supposed to be my weekly Picture Perfect Party Linky post, but we haven't had internet in our area the entire day and we were told that it might only be working by tomorrow. For that reason, I didn't plan to have a post ready for today and decided to leave my linky party for next week Tuesday. It's already nighttime here, so I want to keep this post short and sweet.

As many of you already know, we have a new member in our family! His name is Koda, and he comes from the animal shelter in Gordon's Bay, Cape Town. Samantha and Amanda chose the name from the Disney movie, Brother Bear.

We got him on Friday and surprised our oldest child, Jeremiah, who came home from university on Saturday morning. (The school year in South Africa starts in the middle of January and finishes at the beginning of December, so all our kids are now on midterm break.) 

It's nice having everyone home and we are all enjoying Koda, except for the cats. We still haven't managed to calm him down enough to meet the cats properly. We keep him on a leash when he's inside the house, so that our two cats aren't totally freaked out.

If you missed Part 1 and all the photos, you can check it out here. I'll be sharing more photos on Friday's post. Take care!

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Friday, June 24, 2016

Adopting an Adult Dog - Part 1

Welcome to my weekend blog hop -
Make My Saturday Sweet #179!


I've been looking to adopt the right dog for several weeks and we finally found a dog that we hope will bond with us and will add extra protection to our home. He's a dog that was found on the street and never claimed. The people at the shelter suspect that he was a security dog that was let go. They have another one similar to him that was found around the same time. We've named our dog Koda and he walks well on a leash. The photos I'm sharing were taken the day we met Koda for the first time. I'll share more about the adoption on Tuesday's post.

This blog is best viewed in Google Chrome.
Click on the photos to see them at their best!

Meeting Koda
(for the first time)

Benny and Koda meet

Samantha taking Koda for a walk

At the Cattery
(We enjoyed the kitties, but
we already have two.)

Amanda meets the kitties waiting for adoption






*********************

My Latest Book Blasts
with $25 Giveaways!


Emoji Adventures Volume 1




*********************


Make My Saturday Sweet is a weekend blog hop for all family friendly blogs. You are welcome to link your favorite post from the past week(s) and to visit the last link before yours and leave a sweet comment. It's a really easy and fun way to make new friends and to catch up on old acquaintances.

Now on to my blog hop...

Amanda’s Books and More

It's time for another Make My Saturday Sweet blog hop!

Join me (your host) for this fun and easy hop.
All family friendly blogs are welcome!

If you host your own blog hop(s), then feel free to
link them on my Blog Hops page!

I would love for you to follow me on

Here are the easy rules:
  • Follow Tina (your host) on one or more links listed above.
  • Link up a post from your family friendly blog.
  • Please try to add my hop button on your post or side-bar.
  • Share about this hop on Twitter, Google+ or Facebook.
  • Visit the last link before yours and leave a sweet comment.
Blog Button Code:

Amanda’s Books and More

Weekend Linky

This is a blog hop!



Visit my Blog Hops page to see
what link-ups I take part in.

Read More

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Emoji Adventures Volume 1: The Horse Party

Emoji Adventures
Volume 1: The Horse Party
Book Blast with $25 Giveaway!


About the Book

Title: Emoji Adventures Volume 1: The Horse Party | Author: P.T. Evans | Genre: Children's Adventure | Number of Pages: 108 | Publisher: Montage Publishing | Publication Date: February 21, 2016

Book Description: OBSESSED WITH EMOJIS?
LOL with your favorite emojis as they come to life in this fun, new series. Follow Annie with the constant smile; Kevin, her devilish brother; Billy, poop head and BFF; and Dot, the love-struck jock as they make their way through Emoji Elementary.

Purchase on Amazon:
amazon2 


What others have to say about the book...

"I LOVE this book! The dialogue is witty (and LOL funny); the characters are endearing; and the theme is universally sweet. The author has created a unique experience, blending modern inventions of emojis with classic lessons for kids (and, truly, all of us). It would make a fun read-aloud as well! Definitely a winner." - Robin (Amazon)

"This book is darling! My girls fell in love with Annie and her emoji buddies! We can't wait for the next installment so we can laugh and keep on reading!!!" - Amazon Reviewer

"The Emoji Adventures combines things that a lot of kids love- silly characters, fun storylines and emojis!" - Amazon Reviewer


Montage Publishing Summer Reading Program


"We at Montage Publishing are committed to creating quality books for children; as parents and educators, we’re also aware of the academic backslide that can happen during summer. We’ve created some worksheets, a reading log, and a certificate of achievement to be used alongside our EMOJI ADVENTURES series. Feel free to use them as they are or adapt them to your specific needs.

To further encourage summer reading, we’re having a drawing for two sets of EMOJI ADVENTURES books – one for the winning student; one for his/her library."

To print worksheets and enter the drawing visit montagepublishing.com.

About the Author:
P.T. Evans

P.T. Evans has been writing books for children under various names for two decades. With seventeen novels, numerous author visits, and state reading awards, Evans' books have been translated into two dozen languages.



Book Blast with
$25 Giveaway

Prize: One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card or $25 PayPal cash prize, winner's choiceGiveaway ends: July 4, 11:59 pm, 2016 Open to: Internationally How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below. Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, P.T. Evans and is hosted and managed by Stacie from BeachBoundBooks. If you have any additional questions feel free to send an email to stacie@BeachBoundBooks.com.






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Sunday, June 19, 2016

Happy Father's Day and a #LinkyParty

Welcome to my Picture Perfect
Party Linky #197!


Happy Father's Day!
Today I'm featuring my husband with three of our four kids and the family dog. I'm also posting my linky party early. Enjoy the photos!

This blog is best viewed in Google Chrome.
Click on the photos to see them at their best!

Robbie and Jeremiah last year at Brenton-on-Sea

Robbie, Amanda and Benny this past week
at Gordon's Bay

Robbie and Samantha at Gordon's Bay

Robbie, Samantha, Amanda, and Benny,
Gordon's Bay

Robbie - last night having an early Father's Day
Braai (a South African barbecue)
with lamb and mutton chops

*********************

Here's a peek at
my latest post
on 1camera1mom:

Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa





*********************

My Latest Book Review:
Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors


*********************

Now on to my blog hop...

Amanda’s Books and More

Come link up your Wordless Wednesday
(with or without words) or any picture post
at this Picture Perfect Party Linky.
Join me on this fun and easy blog hop!


If you host your own blog hop(s), then feel free
to link them on my Blog Hops page!


I would love for you to follow me on
and
Follow on Bloglovin



Here are the easy rules:
  • Follow me on one or more links above or via email.
  • Link-up your post with a picture and follow as many new blogs as you like.
  • If possible, copy the button code below and add it on your linked post or blog's side-bar.
  • Tell others about this hop on Twitter, Google+ or Facebook.

The Button Code:

Amanda’s Books and More

This is a Wordless Wednesday blog hop.



Visit my Blog Hops page to see the hops that I often link up to.
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Saturday, June 18, 2016

Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors

Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors
by H.L. Burke


About the Book:
Title: Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors | Author: H.L. Burke | Pages: 158 | Recommended Age: Young Adult | Genre: Steampunk, Science-Fiction, Horror, Romance


Summary:
Nyssa Glass is a reformed cat burglar turned electrician's apprentice, settled into a life repairing videophones and radio-sets. However, when her past comes calling, she finds herself framed for murder and forced into one last job. No one has entered Professor Dalhart's secluded mansion in almost a decade, at least not that returned to tell the tale. If Nyssa wants to ensure her freedom, she'll brave the booby-trapped halls and mechanized maids. Nyssa has skills, but this house has more than its share of secrets. As she steps into the cobwebbed halls lined with dusty mirrors, she has to wonder. Is the House of Mirrors really abandoned?


Purchase on Amazon:


My Review:

When I heard that one of my favorite Indie authors was out with a new book, I purchased it on pre-order for Kindle. I thought that I knew H.L. Burke as an author pretty well, since I have read and reviewed most of her books. By the cover, it was obvious that it was steampunk-fiction, but I didn't know what else I was in for. However, with Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors, I discovered a new genre of hers, namely suspense/horror. I don't read horror or watch it, but this story was not all dark and sinister; it had an uplifting side too. There are lighter moments and there's a bit of romance as well, which is true of most of Burke's books.

You might also like to know that Burke is a faith-based author. Her books are relatively clean with a good message inside an exciting fantasy story. In Nyssa Glass and the House of Mirrors, there are some references to God and Scripture that fit in naturally with the plot.

This book is well suited for young adults who like a thriller.


*********************

Nyssa Glass and the Juliet Dilemma
Just released on Kindle today, June 18!


About the Book:
Title: Nyssa Glass and the Juliet Dilemma | Author: H.L. Burke | Pages: 134 | Recommended Age: Young Adult | Genre: Steampunk, Science-Fiction, Romance


Summary:
Being framed for murder and forced to flee the country sort of takes the fun out of vacations. Reformed cat burglar, Nyssa Glass, wants to lead an honest life as an electrician's apprentice. Instead, she's on the run with her new friend, Ellis, implicated in a crime she didn't commit. The pair ends up stowing away on a zeppelin and meeting Renard and Amara, two teens running away to be married. But the mysterious couple is hiding something—and it might get Nyssa and Ellis killed.

Purchase on Amazon:


*********************

Want More from H.L. Burke?
Check Out My Other Reviews!

recommended for ages 9 - 12






A Tale in Two Parts -
with Author Interview

Dragon's Curse - Book 1

Dragon's Debt - Book 2

Steampunk Fiction

Apocalyptic Fiction


*********************

About the Author:
H.L. Burke


Born in a small town in north central Oregon, H. L. Burke spent most of her childhood around trees and farm animals and always accompanied by a book. Growing up with epic heroes from Middle Earth and Narnia keeping her company, she also became an incurable romantic.

An addictive personality, she jumped from one fandom to another, being at times completely obsessed with various books, movies, or television series (Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and Star Trek all took their turns), but she has grown to be what she considers a well-rounded connoisseur of geek culture.

Married to her high school crush who is now a US Marine, she has moved multiple times in her adult life but believes home is wherever her husband, two daughters, and pets are.

For information about H. L. Burke's latest novels, author news and events, or to contact the writer, go to the H.L. Burke author website.

You can read my interesting interview of Heidi here.


Disclosure: I purchased the Kindle version of this book and have not been compensated in any way. This review is my own.


Read More

Friday, June 17, 2016

My Friend's Fundraiser with #LinkyParty

Welcome to my weekend blog hop -
Make My Saturday Sweet #178!


This blog is best viewed in Google Chrome.
Click on the photos to see them at their best!

Today I want to introduce you to a friend of ours whom we met at Youth With A Mission (YWAM), South Africa, a few years ago. She's now living in Portland, Oregon, as a full-time missionary and we still keep in touch. Her name is Portia and she's got a fundraiser on the go. She explains it best, so keep on reading!

From Portia
I am passionate about seeing positive change come to the lives of the most vulnerable in society. Since joining the team at Loom International, where we work with a wide range of different community development projects aimed at vulnerable women and children, I have become aware that my earlier training is not enough. Granted, I have had the privilege of using my accounting knowledge here and on the field (I studied accounting before I became a missionary), I find that by and large I am handling issues that I am ill-equipped for.

That is why I am now pursuing an MA in Global Development and Justice. This MA is perfectly suited to what I am doing and what I hope to pursue in the future. Please sponsor me as I seek to raise $10,000 towards my tuition fees. I am slowly building stamina for my sponsored 10k run (July 23rd - Sunset on the Springwater). I will still work full-time and study part-time. Finally, it may interest you to know that I have the full support of Loom International.

What is Loom International?
Loom International brings people, resources, training and information together for the benefit of women and children at risk. We are committed to bring change by working with others in hope and interdependence.



Click Here to Sponsor Me!


Do Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly
with Your God - Micah 6:8


*********************


Make My Saturday Sweet is a weekend blog hop for all family friendly blogs. You are welcome to link your favorite post from the past week(s) and to visit the last link before yours and leave a sweet comment. It's a really easy and fun way to make new friends and to catch up on old acquaintances.

Now on to my blog hop...

Amanda’s Books and More

It's time for another Make My Saturday Sweet blog hop!

Join me (your host) for this fun and easy hop.
All family friendly blogs are welcome!

If you host your own blog hop(s), then feel free to
link them on my Blog Hops page!

I would love for you to follow me on

Here are the easy rules:
  • Follow Tina (your host) on one or more links listed above.
  • Link up a post from your family friendly blog.
  • Please try to add my hop button on your post or side-bar.
  • Share about this hop on Twitter, Google+ or Facebook.
  • Visit the last link before yours and leave a sweet comment.
Blog Button Code:

Amanda’s Books and More

Weekend Linky

This is a blog hop!



Visit my Blog Hops page to see
what link-ups I take part in.

Read More

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

My Etsy Shop and More with #Linky

Welcome to my Picture Perfect
Party Linky #196!


Today's jewelry photos with the human model were taken by my 8 year-old, Amanda. I was the model. She was took some of these photos the day before we were burgled. At the time, I was hoping to get my handmade jewelry off the ground by trying a new strategy. I was looking into Instagram as a possible way to promote Alli Flair, because my shop on Etsy was pretty silent. But then we were burgled, and I took an emotional knock.

As many of you know, we were burgled a couple of days before the Easter Weekend while we slept. Since then I've been wondering how to protect our home and my family better. Our rescue dog, Benny, is a gentle soul and 12 years old. He was outside where the burglars came onto our property and he never alerted us. Thankfully, none of us were harmed, not even our pets. I wonder if our dog would have barked if he had been inside. He's not much of a barker. He communicates a lot with his eyes. We've been bringing him in much more now and enjoy having him around the house. He also goes for walks twice a day, something that we've been doing for years.

I would like to add a new dog to the family, one that will sleep inside, that will have the instinct to bark and will be a friend for all of us, including Benny. Both dogs would have the same privileges. We wouldn't have favorites.

I think burglars would not have taken the risk if they had heard a dog inside the house barking. I'm especially keen on getting a German Shepherd. If you saw my weekend post, you'll remember the Meme that I shared. If you missed it, you can check it out at Dogs Make Our World a Better Place.

Any sales that I make on my jewelry I would like to use toward purchasing a dog. Little Amanda will also receive a small compensation for her role in taking the photos of me modeling my Alli Flair necklaces. I hope you will see something that you like for yourself or as a gift for someone else. All the necklaces come in sets, either with a bracelet or with a bracelet and earrings. You are also welcome to visit my Etsy shop and make a purchase there.

If you want a set below that is not on Etsy, then send me an email at <morleychristina (at) gmail (dot) com>. Each set is unique and there are no repeats. I can also make a custom set for $35.

Every original mixed-matched jewelry set by Alli Flair is designed to add "A Touch of Flair" to your outfit and brighten your day.

All Alli Flair jewelry sets include free shipping worldwide with tracking number.



This blog is best viewed in Google Chrome.
Click on my photos to see them at their best!

My Jewelry Sets that are not on Etsy

Necklace and Bracelet Sets:

Silver butterfly necklace set,
includes a matching bracelet,
for only $23

Playful purple and white necklace set,
includes a matching bracelet,
for only $23

Playful purple and green necklace set,
includes a matching bracelet,
for only $23

Playful black and purple ladybugs
necklace set, includes a bracelet,
for only $23

Royal green and gold necklace set,
includes a matching bracelet,
for only $23

Playful green and aqua necklace set,
includes a matching bracelet,
for only $21

Playful green and white necklace set,
includes a matching bracelet,
for only $19


Necklace and Bracelet with Earrings Sets:

Green and gold necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $27

Chunky green and white necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $27

Elegant green and white necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $27

Vibrant green and purple necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $27

Casual green and white necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $25

Subtle purple and white necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $27

Elegant purple and white necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $25

Playful purple and white necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $25

Vibrant pink and turquoise necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $27

Casual electric blue necklace set with
bracelet and earrings for $25

Custom necklace sets to order for only $35
(The custom set in the photo has been sold.)

My Shop on Etsy



*********************

Here's a peek at
my latest post
on 1camera1mom:

La Petite Dauphine

Guest Farm


Amanda

Our family from left to right:
Jeremiah, Jessica, Tina (me),
Amanda, Samantha, and
hubby Robbie


*********************

My Latest Book Blast:
Marty and the Christmas Eve Surprise
with a $25 Giveaway!

MartyChristmas


*********************

Now on to my blog hop...

Amanda’s Books and More

Come link up your Wordless Wednesday
(with or without words) or any picture post
at this Picture Perfect Party Linky.
Join me on this fun and easy blog hop!


If you host your own blog hop(s), then feel free
to link them on my Blog Hops page!


I would love for you to follow me on
and
Follow on Bloglovin



Here are the easy rules:
  • Follow me on one or more links above or via email.
  • Link-up your post with a picture and follow as many new blogs as you like.
  • If possible, copy the button code below and add it on your linked post or blog's side-bar.
  • Tell others about this hop on Twitter, Google+ or Facebook.

The Button Code:

Amanda’s Books and More

This is a Wordless Wednesday blog hop.



Visit my Blog Hops page to see the hops that I often link up to.


Read More

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