Reminder for Giveaway

All those books you bought to read this winter need nice stickers/labels for them.  OR for anything else you wish.  Just a reminder to leave a comment (please leave your comment on Friday's post) and let me know how you would use the stickers/labels.  UPrinting is giving away this nice prize so enter before February 6!  Whether or not you win the stickers check out UPrinting.

UPrinting {GIVEAWAY}

UPrinting is sponsoring a great giveaway, this time for custom-printed stickers! One lucky winner will receive a set of 250 stickers/labels.
Here are the prize details:
Sizes: 2” x 3.5”, 2” x 4”, or 3” x 3”
Paper: 70 lb Label Matte
Specifications: Full color front, blank back; 4 Business Day printing
Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping in the USA
Here's how to enter: Just leave a comment to let me know how you would use the stickers/labels if you win. Be sure to leave a way for me to contact you.


Thanks, UPrinting!

More details: Open to residents of United States. Offer is not available to residents outside the US and Canada. Must be age 18 or older. Giveaway ends 02/06/10 at noon (Eastern time). Winners will be chosen by the random number generator at Random.org. Each winner will be contacted by email and must claim the prize within 48 hours, or another winner will be chosen. Void where prohibited.

Disclosure: I will receive 250 stickers, at no cost to me, from UPrinting.com.

Quote

I like this quote by Francis Bacon. After you read this quote tell me why you read.

Read not to contradict; nor to believe and take for granted;
not to find talk and discourse; but to weigh and consider.
Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed,
and some few to be chewed and ingested:
that is, some books are to be read only in parts,
others to be read, but not curiously, and some few
to be read wholly, and with diligence and attention.
-Francis Bacon

Reading but not reading

Just the other day I was trying to put a small object together. The instructions read, "Difficulty: EASY" I thought, "Okay. I can do this." I read through the instructions and proceeded to put the object together. When I had finished -- the object still looked like -- an object. I tried again, and again. Finally, frustrated I took a short break. After resting, I decided to take it all apart. Again I followed the instructions word for word. And again it was still a blob not the desired object I wanted. I was about to throw the whole thing, box included, into the trash when I read a small phrase at the bottom of the instructions page. That one phrase, that I somehow kept overlooking, held the key to making the whole "object" come together. I followed the instructions again. This time I inserted the correct "key" and presto! my object looked just like the picture on the box. What a difference it made to read the entire page! Have you ever tried to put something together and kept reading but yet missing the "message?"?

Drive Thru

There's a place I don't care to go with my family and it's known as the "drive thru." You know McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, or Taco Bell. First of all, my husband is usually driving and our son yells from the back seat, "I want nuggets." My husband says, "WHAT?!?" I say, "Just go to the window and I'll give you our order." He cautiously drives to the window. "Yes, order when ready..." The Voice calls to us. "1 kids meal with a root beer," I tell my husband. He repeats, "1 kids meal with a root beer." The voice says "1 kids meal. And what drink would you like?" I say, "root beer." Husband repeats, "Kids meal with root beer." I grimace. The Voice replies, "2 kids meals with root beer." I say "NO." By this time husband is getting frustrated. Child is yelling, "I'm hungry. Are we at grandma's yet?" The Voice replies, "Will that be all?" I say, "No, 1 large sweet tea." My husband tells The Voice, "No." The Voice says, "And will that be all?" By this time husband is truly losing it. I look at him and he looks at me. He then tells The Voice, "Please cancel this order. I'm coming inside to order." So, we drive to the front. I write out our order. Husband comes back with a sack and some drinks. I look at the order and say, "Where are the other fries?" He looks at me and says, "I read exactly what you wrote." We eat what is in the bag and go to grandmas. Would you rather eat in or go through the drive thru?

Read a sweet story of Grace

Tired of reading about all of the world problems, weather disasters and unkind people that seem to dominate our world? Need some good news? Click on the link and read the Sweet Story of Grace.
http://kissesfromkatie.blogspot.com

Children's Books

I love children's books. Maybe it's the pictures, maybe it's the easy reading or maybe it's because children's books seem to have a lesson within a story. My favorite children's book is written by Angela Elwell Hunt and is entitled The True Princess. This book also has great illustrations by Diana Magnuson. The story is actually a parable. The little girl in the story is a princess but through hardships and life lessons she learns the meaning of serving others and becoming a true princess. This isn't just a "girly" book it's a great story for boys too. I know because I've read it to my young son and he enjoys the story and understands the parable. If you get a chance, check it out at the library or order it as a gift from Amazon.
What is a favorite children's book that you still read as an adult?

Bookcases

I've always loved to read so when I got married I was happily surprised that my husband loved to read almost as much as I; however, I like mostly fiction and he prefers mostly nonfiction. What we prefer to read is not the problem where we both put all our books has created an overload in our bookcases. We both started out with a few books but as the years have progressed we found that our bookcases were overflowing. What to do? My husband's solution-buy three more, bigger bookcases. My solution-go through all the books and keep only the ones I really enjoy. As in any marriage we made a comprise. We bought six bookcases (3 for our home and 3 for my husband's office). We had 1 1/2 bookcases each for our books (of course, the bookcases at his office don't count). I went through my books and gave away books I knew I probably wouldn't reread but that others would enjoy. My husband can't bear to part with a book (I did not realize this). So, he kept all his books and just added more to his collection at his office. His office bookcases are now overflowing with books 2 and 3 deep. Ironically he came home the other day and said, "Honey, my office is a mess. Will you help me organize it?"
I said, "Of course, let's get some boxes and go through your books."
He answered, "We won't need boxes. I'm going to buy 2 more bookcases."
How many bookcases do you have?

More Thoughts on "How to Reach Your Full Potential for GOD"

I was impressed with Dr. Charles Stanley's book,  How To Reach Your Full Potential for GOD.  This book has so many good points but I want to share a few points from one chapter, Chapter 4.  This chapter is entitled "A Clean Heart."  Dr. Stanley writes about everyday, practical matters.  In chapter 4 he writes an illustration about how we don't just wash our hands when they're visibly dirty so in the same way we shouldn't think that we can go to church once a week and think that a sermon, a few scriptures will keep your heart clean. "Maintaining a clean heart is a daily exercise."  He continues on in the chapter with setting our heart toward purity, confession & forgiveness for they bring heart health.  
I hope you'll find time in your day to talk with the Lord, read His Word and develop a relationship with Him through the week and not settle for a "quick sprinkle" on Sunday.  
If you can get a copy of How To Reach Your Full Potential for GOD by Dr. Charles Stanley I encourage you to read this inspiring book.  Have you read another book that has inspired your faith?Please leave a comment about a book that inspires you:

How to Reach Your Full Potential for GOD

I wasn't expecting much out of Dr. Stanley's new book, How to Reach Your Full Potential for GOD, but I was pleasantly surprised.  This is a wonderful book.  It's not just another Christian book about how to live for God but Dr. Stanley writes about confessing our sins, living a pure life, and organizing our homes so we can live in God's fullness.  This book has practical applications for our everyday lives.  One of my favorite chapters in the book was chapter four.  Chapter four is about having a pure heart.  This isn't just about living a good, Christian life it's about letting God cleanse us for His purposes.  If you really want God's best in your life and you're struggling with issues of tiredness and inadequacy then you need to read this book.  As Dr. Stanley states on the front of the book "Never Settle for Less than His Best."  Thomas Nelson Publishing sent me this book to review and I give it 5 stars!

Books & Chocolate {Giveaway}

AND THE WINNER IS Westword. Email for address.

What's better than a good book?  A good book and great chocolate!  I have the perfect giveaway for the January blues---a box of the most delicious chocolates.  Leave a comment about why you should have the box of chocolates.  This giveaway ends on Thursday evening so leave a comment today.

Publishing a book

Our son loves to write stories.  When he was in Kindergarten he began writing a story about a space hero named Spider Rocket.  We worked on this story for about three years.  Adding to it, deleting and finally making into a small book.  Last year I found a site that allows children and adults to publish their stories for a small fee.  We worked on typing, editing and illustrations for about 8 days.  Finally, we had a book from his story.  In fact, if you look closely at the picture at the top of this page you will see that he is reading the very book we published.  He was excited and felt important because he had accomplished something from reading.  We bought copies for his cousins and gave them as Valentines last year.  They were impressed and gave much affirmation to our son for his writing.  If children love reading and then want to write stories or articles themselves, encourage them.  Don't worry about spelling every word correctly or that their usage is correct.  Have them Write, Write and Write.  Then sit down with them, have the child read the story out loud as you type (using spell check), when something doesn't sound right explain the correct usage.   When the story is finished head over to bookemon.com and publish a book.  The affirmation your child will receive is worth every penny!  

Read, read, read

I once had a professor who told us that there are three essentials to reading:  


READ, READ, READ


Take some time today to read, read, read.  It will rest you and refresh you.


What favorite book are you reading today?

A Tribute

Yesterday was my mom's birthday.  So, today I dedicate this to her because she's the one who made reading fun for me.  I remember as a child that she read to me, my brother and sister before bedtime.  When we were quite small I remember her reading "The Little Red Hen."  I do believe that from that story I learned that if one doesn't work-one doesn't eat, hence my work ethic today.  As we grew older she didn't read to us as much because we were reading by now.  However, we lived way out in the country and a Bookmobile would come once a week to the upper road.  My mom would take us to the upper road to trade in our books.  How I loved the Bookmobile with all the adventures hidden in the cover of those books.  To this day I still love going to the library.  Last year my son was old enough for his first library card so off we went to the library.  He was so excited!  I hope I can instill a love of reading in my son the same way my mom instilled a love of reading in me.  So this weekend turn off the TV and enjoy some book time with your child(ren).  What is a favorite book you read to your child?

Relaxing with a book

I did I something yesterday that I don't usually do.  I sat down with a book in the middle of the afternoon and read.  I usually wait to read until  bedtime and read before going to sleep but yesterday I took a couple of hours to finish a book.  It relaxed me and I was ready to finish my work.  If you're feeling the January blues take a few moments or a couple of hours to read something that will encourage you.  How do you combat the January blues?  

Reading is Learning!

Reading is learning!  And I am learning which makes me feel more than entertained.  I feel enabled and smart. I've started reading Charles Stanley's newest book "How To Reach Your Full Potential for God" and am pleasantly surprised by the way it reads.  Of course, it's taking me a little longer to read because I want to absorb truths but it is a faster read than expected.  I think I'm going to enjoy reading more nonfiction this year.  So, what are you reading?  Have a good nonfiction book you've read recently?  Tell us about it in the comments and I'll publish your thoughts with the book title.

New Book!

I'll be reading Charles Stanley's new book "How to Reach Your Full Potential for God" and then reviewing it for Thomas Nelson Publishing.  I hope you'll join me.  This book will take me about two weeks to read.  So grab a glass of tea and a comfortable chair and come read with me.

Did you read "Sisterchicks do the Hula?"  If so leave a comment about the book.

Fun Reading

Reading is fun!  Here are a some of my favorite links:

Cute tops for sandwich baggies

Christmas Bible (totally free) great gift for next year!


FREE Cute Valentine's Day Card downloads

WOW {Warm Oven Wednesday} Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Coffee Cak

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter

8 oz cream cheese

1 1/4 cups sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

2 cups flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup milk

6 oz chocolate chips

Optional topping:

1/4 cup sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

Cream together sugar, butter, cream cheese, and eggs. Add vanilla, salt, and baking powder, while mixing. Add flour in bit by bit, mixing as you go, keeping the mixture smooth. Add milk (may not require full amount of milk...you want a creamy dough, not a drippy dough). Then fold in the chocolate chips. Pour into greased and floured baking pans (1/2 full). Bake at 350 for 50-55 minutes (or 30-35 minutes for mini loaves). Loaves are done when the top is golden brown and/or a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Yields 2 loaves (or 3-4 mini loaves).

Thanks , Alisha for such a great recipe!

Reading Is Everywhere

Did you realize that you read almost every minute of the day?  Right now you're reading this post, next you might read a recipe to make for supper.  When you run errands you'll be reading those crazy store ads.  Our world is filled with reading.  So I'm sure you get my point that reading is important.  We all like different styles of writing and enjoy reading different genres.  However, we all have one thing in common--we read!  On Wednesday I'll be announcing the next book I'm reading.  It's a great book (so I've heard) but this time I'll reading a nonfiction book.  Come to the Parlor, sit, relax and enjoy a great read!


Here's something good to read.  On my side bar is a button to Free Sample Freak site.  Click on the button and check out some wonderful freebies.  By the way I don't get paid for mentioning sites.  To me blogging is all about sharing.  So when I find something good I'll share it with you.   

Today!

Today is one of my favorite days of the week.  Today is the day we "get" to attend church.  The day we celebrate the life He has given us.  The day I seek Him through prayer and His Word.  Read His Word today and receive the blessing He has provided for you.

Weekend Reading

Today is Saturday. Yea!  In between the laundry and the cooking and the cleaning -the list goes on and on (sigh) take time to read at least two chapters of a good book.  Hope you're enjoying Sisterchicks!  

Quote

I've been thinking about a quote I've heard quite often, "Readers Make Leaders."  I've thought about this quote and it was always just that- a quote.  But the other day I had one of those "light bulb moments" and realized that readers do make leaders.  Why?  When one reads your imagination expands, you dream, you take in all the sights, smells and wonder of the words you're reading.  Ever watch TV and wonder what you just watched?  I can't remember TV shows from my childhood but I do remember books.  One of my favorite books that I received from my Aunt Nancy when I was about nine years old was 'Mr. Tweety'.  This book has a plain brown cover and doesn't look exciting just by looking at the cover.  However, when I opened the book and began reading I was lost in the adventure of a bird and a lady.  This story remained with me all these years and when my son was about seven I ordered the book from Amazon.  I want him to have good memories of great books that go with him through adulthood.  Yes, movies are fun and exciting!  But when was the last time you read a book that took you beyond your white picket fences?  And made you think?  Remember a book from your childhood?  Share your adventure with us.

Reading

As a teacher I know reading is important but it didn't hit me until a couple of weeks ago how important reading really is.  My 9 year old son doesn't enjoy reading, much to my dismay, and I've been worried that he's missing out on something important in life.  I love to read but honestly reading directions and nonfiction is a chore for me.  This is where as a parent I learned a lesson.  My son received a new monopoly game and his dad told him about a rule in the game.  However, our son said that his cousin didn't play it that way SO our son got out the instructions and for the game and for one hour (yes, one hour!) he sat on the couch and tediously read EVERY instruction on how to correctly play Monopoly.  When his dad came home from work he excitedly told him that we were all playing Monopoly wrong.  Needless to say we sat down and played a few hours of Monopoly by the rules.  You know it went better and was actually more fun.  I realized that there are different types of reader enjoyment.  Mine is reading fiction, my son likes to read instructions to know how things work and my husband enjoys reading Biblical nonfiction.  So tell me what type of reader are you?

Tammy's Book Parlor: My Favorite Series

Tammy's Book Parlor: My Favorite Series

My Favorite Series

 Maybe, because, it's SO cold this winter my mind is on warmer weather so my review today takes me to one of my favorite books "Sisterchicks do the Hula" by Robin Jones Gunn.  Yes, you guessed correctly!  We are going to Hawaii.  I've never been to this state but when reading this book I know It's a place I'd love to visit.  But the story isn't just about Hawaii it's about two friends and how God, as only He can, surprises us.  This is  a wonderful story with "nuggets" thrown in every few pages.  This story is light, fun reading.  Many a character  has 'died' due to author over information but when this story is finished you feel that you've been on the trip and I hope, as my heart felt, you'll be thankful for that sisterchick God has placed in your life.  The definition of a sisterchick is a friend who shares the deepest wonders of your heart, loves you like a sister, and provides a reality check when you're being a brat.  I don't want to over tell this book and REALLY want you to read it for yourself and make a comment about it next week on this blog.  If you don't have the book: check it out from the library, buy it from Amazon (if you do buy from Amazon please use the sidebar on my blog as I will get points for my blog :), borrow from a friend but by all means read this book!  Tell me what you think about the book; however, remember we aren't dissecting the author or using mean language. :)  Thanks for dropping by.  See you in the comments!

Wednesday's In the Parlor

Readers~
Be sure to check  in each Wednesday for a book to read or  for a review of a book.  I will be announcing the book I'm reading on Wednesdays and if you have the book join me.  If you don't have the book wait for the review and sometimes I will be giving the book away and you may want to read it.  I love to read Christian fiction but I have to admit that I am a choosy reader.  However, this year I plan to read more nonfiction. :)  A friend pointed out to me one day that reading nonfiction increases your learning.  But I thought, "That's why I read --to relax not learn." :)   I do enjoy a good cozy mystery but this year I plan to read a few nonfiction books and increase my knowledge and hope you too will join me. We can "grow smart" together.  Sorry but I don't go for gore, horror or sickly romance. I want my reading to glorify the Lord.  Enough said. :)  Come by tomorrow with a cup of tea or coffee ready to read!

New Name

After trying to google my own blog I soon realized that half of America decided that they were "Living the Dream" needless to say I need/want to be different than most of America so my blog name has changed to Tammy's Book Parlor and I will be blogging mostly about books so the new name is a better "fit."  I hope you'll check in quite often to see what new reads are out and about.

dreamin'

About three months ago my husband, my son and I were strolling around Southlake, Texas.  There is a wonderful shopping area that is like walking in a park instead of a shopping zone.  As we were strolling, window shopping and basically just having a wonderful afternoon in the fall sun our 9 year old son excitedly exclaimed to my husband, "Dad!  Do you see that lamborghini over there?  Now that's a sweet ride!"  As many of you know cars and boys go together like peanut butter and jelly on white.  Being more interested in the Brighton store I saw across the street I wasn't paying all that much attention to my boys.  Excitedly my husband called to me, "We're going to the end of the walk."  I shook my head in agreement and turned toward my favorite store.  After browsing through Brighton I headed across the street and down the walk.  I could see my husband carefully taking pictures and my son posing like a model for GQ.  My son saw me and ran with a big smile on his face to where I was standing.  "Mom, come here.  You've got to see this car!"  Still thinking about the neat flower jewelry I saw in the store I followed my son to the lamborghini.  My husband looked like someone had handed him the prize of the day.  "You won't believe this!" he exclaimed.  "We saw the man drive up in this lamborghini and get out.  Then I went into the cafe where he was eating and politely asked him if I could take a picture of my son by is lamborghini.  The man smiled and threw me the keys to his car and told me to  open it up and to let my son sit in the seats and 'drive' the car."  The man probably knew that my husband and son would be more gentle with his car than a mom with a newborn.  My husband took a few more pictures and as we were leaving I turned for one last look at a car that made my son's day.  It was then that I realized we were Living the Dream.  No we don't own a lamborghini but a kind stranger shared a rare car with a 9 year old boy who will one day share his dream with another.  That's what Living the Dream is about caring and sharing.

Blogging

Recently my mom said, "Why don't you blog? It's fun and one can express one's thoughts." I said, "Wellllll...." ( I always hesitate to put my writing on the line. :) After much thought I decided to join the bloggers of America. I feel that I'm living the dream because I am a follower of Christ and have been truly blessed. The road is not always easy but as my husband and I follow the road to eternity we have learned that all people need a Savior and one day we will be 'Living the Dream' when we see Him. So, if you too are Living the Dream, come follow me and together we'll share the laughter and triumphs of life.