lord of the flies

Not everyone went to Quannah McCall Sixth Grade Center, but if you were lucky, you did. Why were you lucky? Because you got a front row seat to fist fights and bomb threats all while walking in the fresh air outdoor hallways to get to class to read Where the Red Fern Grows and realize one of your friends loves Bon Jovi so much she got her hair cut like his. 

Wherever you went for your first experience outside of the haven of elementary school, you could probably tell a couple of stories. Maybe you realized that your freckles are cute or not cute. Maybe you felt tall until everyone else had a series of growth spirts but you didn't, so you couldn't seem to speak up anymore. Maybe you were the one who got beat up, and maybe, just maybe, you were the one fighting on the island for the all-powerful conch—like me. One thing you never think to consider though is who is deciding who the cool kids are. You just act and get acted upon. You get run over or run others over without knowing, picking on the people who are different all while being extraordinarily different yourself. 

Junior high or middle school, whichever you want to call it, is like a live-action, continuous retelling of Lord of the Flies. Written in 1954, William Golding captures the adolescent psyche with such style and adventure, you don't quite realize what's happening until boys who once were mild mannered choirboys are hunting down other boys and fighting over territorial rights until someone is killed.

Leadership is established. Tribes are organized. Things should be good. Right? Well, not with a Jack on the island.

Ralph, Jack, and Piggy represent the leaders and followers, the protector, hunter, and prey we all have been during our formative years as young people. Because we can't all be choirboys who crash land on a deserted island, nor can we all attend Quannah McCall Sixth Grade Center, reading this book is a must-read for teens and teachers of teens. Vicarious learning in cases such as this are preferable.

Hope Springs

Hope Springs by Sarah M. Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Going off of my experience with the first book, Longing For Home, I anticipated enjoying the sequel—and I did. What I did not anticipate was being so moved by this second book.

Hope Springs picks up almost right where we left all of them in the previous book. That's something that I value because we don't have to fill in any gaps in the story. It's all right there waiting. The struggles with poverty, racism, and grief that are portrayed appeal to the humanity in all of us. Eden writes to that soft spot in our hearts and depicts a world that begs to be overcome.

Katie Macauley faces life changing decisions. The plight of the Irish Road against the Red Road has twists and turns and a surprising, even astonishing, conclusion. Love is beautifully woven into the fabric of this story.

And lastly, the theme "hope springs eternal" from Alexander Pope's "An Essay on Man" adds a layer of depth that speaks to me as a person. Reading about Katie's hopeful attitude in such dire circumstances inspires me. I laughed and cried as I read this book. I hope you will enjoy Hope Springs as much as I did.



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SOLSC 2014: The Avatar Battle

I'm really excited about today's slice of life for a few reasons.

The first reason is because I tried something new: I created a book talk. Some of you might not think this is a very big deal. But let me tell you something, it was nerve-wracking to make the video, and now that it's out there all I can think about is how weird I look and sound.

So anyway. Here is the book talk of all book talks:




The next reason I'm excited is because I was able to read an interesting book. I haven't taken time to read something outside of academic reading for way too long. It was refreshing. There's something wonderful about escaping into a good book.

I'm especially excited to tell you that I have a book giveaway for you as well! So after you take a minute to read the review, make sure to enter to win a copy of The Avatar Battle by Chad Morris.

The Avatar Battle by Chad  Morris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The action begins from the get go in the sequel to The Inventor's Secret. Right when you think the tension couldn't get any higher, it does. But the same comic relief from Carol can be counted on. One of my favorite parts about The Avatar Battle is how Carol plays a larger role and we get to know Derick better as well.

Action and adventure set in a futuristic secondary school for gifted students is a magical combination. Thrills and chills and awkward moments for the young people keep the story fresh and interesting.

I recommend this book to ages 10 and up. Even the avid YA Lit reading adult will find this story worth reading.


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Now go to the top of the blog to enter the giveaway! Good luck!

Christmas Traditions: Stories and Ornaments

Christmas is my favorite holiday for a few reasons. Foremost, I'm Christian and it's the holiday celebrating Christ's birth. Second, my family culture growing up had many special traditions that revolved around Christmas. And last, I have continued many of the Christmas traditions my parents handed down to me because I truly love Christmas time so very much. Two of those traditions are particularly special to me.

One of the traditions that I have carried on is reading Christmas stories to my children. I don't recall my mother reading the stories to us more often than on Christmas Eve, but I have expanded it and read Christmas stories to my children throughout the month of December. When I became a mother, my mom gave me her set of books that celebrate different Christmas traditions around the world, and those books are favorites now because there are photographs and chock full of interesting factoids that my children soak up like sponges.

When I was given the opportunity to review Christmas From Heaven, a zing of excitement went through me. I had been wanting a new Christmas story to add to our collection, and I was thinking this one might be a good choice. Well, after reading it to my children and enjoying the DVD included with it, the votes were in—this is a fabulous Christmas story!

What I like most about Christmas From Heaven is that it tells a story from history about how someone gave true Christian kindness in a time of post-war tragedy. I had heard of the Berlin Candy Bomber before, but I didn't really know the story in any detail. The book has photographs of the people, planes, and thank-you's sent to Lt. Halvorsen aka The Berlin Candy Bomber. An extra treat is having the Christmas DVD to watch with the story read by Tom Brokaw along with music by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. We had just read the book, but my children were just as engrossed in the telling of the story on the DVD because of the added features from the performance.

I highly recommend Christmas From Heaven to anyone who would like an uplifting historical story for Christmas time.  If you don't want to wait to see if you win the book giveaway, I have a direct link for purchasing a copy:  http://deseretbook.com/Christmas-Heaven-Tom-Brokaw/i/5108410

The other tradition I would like to share with you is collecting ornaments for the Christmas tree. My mom had a lovely collection herself, but she started one for me from the first year I was born and continued adding to it until her last Christmas. So, ornaments are a precious part of my Christmas each year. Taking out each ornament and finding a perfect spot on the tree is a wonderful time for me. 

Another exciting thing for me with this review was that, in addition to the book, I was sent a set of Biblical Names of Christ ornaments. These ornaments come in a set of twelve and are simple yet perfect for focusing on the true meaning of Christmas. I'm one for glitter and lots of color, but I really was impressed by the quality of each ornament. Another nice thing about these ornaments is you can tie a ribbon through the top or use ornament hooks. I'm going with a sheer purple ribbon, but that's just me. 

For anyone wanting a quality ornament set that is unique and places emphasis on Christ, this set would be an excellent purchase. To get a set for yourself or as a gift, here is a direct link: http://bit.ly/1h3s7JD

*GIVEAWAY*

Now, for the really fun part. I hope all of you enter to win a copy of the fantastic Christmas story Christmas From Heaven, the true story of the Berlin Candy Bomber. Good luck, and remember to spread the Christmas giveaway cheer by sharing news of the giveaway: tweet on Twitter, post to Facebook, and email the link!

Curse of the Broomstaff: Takes Out the Trash

On the seventh day of the Third Annual Half-Birthday Bash, I give to you a review of Tyler Whitesides' Janitors: Curse of the Broomstaff (book three) and a giveaway for a box set of the Janitors series.


Curse of the Broomstaff by Tyler Whitesides

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The Janitors series is a fun set of youth literature that is still very readable for the seasoned adult audience. High adventure is found lurking within these pages situated within the rugged terrain navigated by students, adults, but the best part is the janitors.

There is something to be said for the unsung heroes who keep our schools clean by battling the daily grunge. The lead characters, Spencer and Daisy, lead the Rebels to meet the Glop with destruction. The cover art is as intriguing as the tale, with each chapter taking you around new corners. This finale to the series is a triumph over trash, making it perfection.

Young people will enjoy diving into this unearthly realm. Trash and all.



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Drawing Out the Dragons: Rejuvenating

For Day Six of the Third Annual Half-Birthday Bash, you will have the pleasure of a review and giveaway for Drawing Out the Dragons, by James A. Owen.


Drawing Out the Dragons by James A Owen

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Most of the books I read lately are either fiction or of the textbook variety, so you can imagine my surprise to come across an opportunity to review something fresh and new.

Drawing Out the Dragons is an intriguing biography of sorts that inspires. It has quotes from many world figures and pieces of the author's journey to become the writer he is today.

I kept putting myself in the author's shoes and thinking how I just need to hang on a bit longer for the right stuff to come along. Owen does not paint a perfect picture, but he does show us the power of perseverance and setting goals you work hard to achieve. I came away from reading his life sketch rejuvenated and motivated to reach my dreams.

I hope you will give Drawing Out the Dragons a read. It will surprise and delight you.


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Please enter the raffle for a chance to win a copy of Drawing Out the Dragons, by James A. Owen

Cragbridge Hall, The Inventor's Secret: Innovative

 

 For Day Two of our Third Annual Half-Birthday Bash, I hope you will enjoy this review and giveaway of Cragbridge Hall, book 1: The Inventor's Secret.

Cragbridge Hall, Book 1: The Inventor's Secret by Chad  Morris

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The first book in a series has the heavy responsibility of introducing an entire world of characters and, sometimes, a literally new world to us. In The Inventor's Secret, Chad Morris is able to hook the reader with the quirkiness of Abby, not so unique genius of her twin brother, Derick, and a secret-laden plot that twists and turns in unexpected directions for these two teenagers.

My favorite aspect of The Inventor's Secret:  The ability to learn from the past by literally going there to seek knowledge and solutions. In today's world we might not be able to literally go between past and present, yet we can make a study of the past in order to solve some of the challenges we face now.

The story draws upon fantasy, historical facts, and futuristic (on the brink of dystopian) reading interests. Because of this fact, I recommend the first Cragbridge Hall book to lovers of all these areas, ages 10 and up.

As an adult reader, I was pulled into the innovative concepts and found it a very entertaining read. The sequels can't come soon enough, for I am curious to see what the author will bring to the table next time.




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Blackmoore: Intriguingly Beautiful

Our first day of the Third Annual Half-Birthday Bash will be celebrated with a review and giveaway of Blackmoore, by Julianne Donaldson. 

Blackmoore: A Proper Romance by Julianne Donaldson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


After reading Edenbrooke, I thought there could never be any other novel as perfectly lovely. But I repent the notion. To limit the artistry and glorious writing talents of Julianne Donaldson was an error.

Blackmoore is completely detached from the storyline of Edenbrooke, yet Donaldson captures that element of magical delight present in her first feat of writerly greatness and places it within the heart of every character, scene, and plot advancement found in her new love, Blackmoore. There is everything a reader could want--adventure, intrigue, and romance which unfolds beautifully sans any hint of explicit sensuality.

One of my many favorite quotes comes from the words of Henry to Kate:
"I wonder what you will do with your wings once you have found them. I wonder how far away they will take you..."

Blackmoore will stand on its own as the best romance novel for 2013. Get to reading it, and spread the word.

Related links:
Edenbrooke Review: Part 1
Edenbrooke Review: Part 2



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I cordially invite you to enter for the chance to win a copy of Blackmoore!

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Longing for Home: Delightful!

 

Longing for Home: A Proper Romance by Sarah M. Eden

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Longing for Home, by Sarah M. Eden, begins out on a trail that takes the Ireland-born Katie Macauley to the small town of Hope Springs, Wyoming to figure out what home really means. I, too, was carried along for the ride in more ways than one.

The concept of what home is has been something I've thought about quite often, and so this beautiful Irish-threaded story struck a harmonious chord for me. The elegant stitching of Irish dialect and 1800s American colloquialisms creates a language delight that transports you into the story's world. Because of her apparent Irish flair, I wanted to get to know Katie better and see where her efforts would take her, and Eden does not disappoint. Excellent character development, intriguing plot twists, and delicious foreshadowing make for a page-turner novel you won't want to put down.

One of my favorite quotes from Longing for Home:

"When a man finds such a treasure, he doesn't part with her for anything."
     -- Tavish O'Connor, talking about his horse.

I know this is jumping the gun a bit since the giveaway on my blog doesn't start until August 6th, but I just couldn't hold in the excitement from reading this refreshingly romantic tale.

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Les Misérables: Movie Review

I do not claim to be a big shot film critic; however, I do take claim to the fact that I have eyes, ears, and a heart.

Going in, I thought I had never been exposed to Les Misérables in any of its forms. I knew for certain that I had never been fortunate enough to have seen it on the stage; therefore, I assumed I didn't know its story. (I bought Victor Hugo's book awhile back, but have not read it yet!) The film's soundtrack music had escaped my notice because I had been too distracted by heavier things to take time to click on even one of the numerous links whirring past me on Facebook and Twitter.  Out of all my several friends and acquaintances, no one could join me, so there was no pre-viewing anticipatory  conversation.

The movie theater was packed like a can of sardines, but since I had made the fortunate mistake of choosing the handicapped seating, I had two seats to myself. I spread my short legs across the other seat, laid out my long, puffy jacket like a comforter snuggling up with my caffeine-free diet cherry Coke and my purple monkey that pretty much begged to go to the movies for a photo-op. (Yes, I did feel awkward having a stuffed monkey with me and no children, but I will endure just about anything in order to indulge in purplicious shenanigans.)

Then, the movie started.

My senses told me that I knew this story. I had felt the anguish and hope of Jean Valjean; I had seen the mercilessness of Javert; I had stepped into the shoes of Fantine, but when? My mind kept flashing back to a different movie--a non-musical version--when I was with my parents. Once the music burst from Jean Valjean's lips, I was flooded with emotion. Seeing a CD case with the iconic Les Misérables cover art on my mother's book case by the large window in her kitchen. And the performances of the many actors and actresses transformed the flashes of past memory into a wild and joyous experience in the present.

The connection of past to present made the movie all that much more wonderful to me, yet it stands alone in its merit. There are those who criticize some of the actors for not singing up to snuff with performances they've seen in London or Los Angeles or New York. As I said before, I have not seen any stage production of Les Misérables, but I do not need to in order to say that these actors and actresses were amazing. No, Russell Crowe should not go into professional stage singing. His performance was stellar nonetheless. And as for the criticisms of Amanda Seyfried--a load of hogwash. I find her singing voice to be like a songbird that I never could be but always longed for. I feel sorry for the catty and backbiting sorts of critiques that have peppered the internet. These people who performed for the world are PEOPLE. With FEELINGS. Don't be so rude about your dislikes of this or any other performance. There are ways to communicate dislikes without putting artists and actors on the rack for public torture.

Another, more priceless, aspect of this story is the allegory of Christ's redemption which is threaded throughout the lives of each character. The example that stands out most poignantly for me is how Fantine makes mistakes, even commits dreaded sin, yet she is Jean Valjean's angel leading him back to God. I was able to see, within a secular movie, my faith strengthened and renewed. I was reminded that liberty and love are in my grasp, that God does not forsake even the lowliest of his children. I was brought to realize how blessed I am to not be as lowly and impoverished as those portrayed in the film, as those somewhere in the world are right now. My humanity was touched to the core.

I encourage anyone who is thinking about going to see this film to go.

Rating:
Five out of five stars

Polka Dot Purple goes to the movies.

Shoelaces for Christmas

Shoelaces for Christmas by Craig S. Buehner

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


While this is a shorter length book, Shoelaces for Christmas by Craig S. Buehner packs a whole lot of story into its few pages. The story starts out at a gripping pace and never lets off the gas.

This is a story of how life's challenges and the suffering of others changes a young man's perspective on what Christmas and even what life means to him. I was compelled to read and read until I had it finished. There is never a slow moment--only layers of meaningful expressions teaching about life and love and the gift of Christmas. 

My heart was truly touched as I was moved to tears by this beautiful story, and I encourage everyone to give it a read. You'll be glad you did.



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Disclaimer:
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for this honest review, as well as a copy to give away to one of you lucky readers. Merry Christmas!

Thirty Days of Gratitude: Traditions

Whether it's for a holiday or just a family thing, I am grateful for traditions. Life is more interesting when peppered with them.

One of my favorite traditions of all time is going Christmas caroling. My mother took me when I was growing up, and I keep the tradition going with my children. The music of Christmas, both spiritual and festive, enchants my heart.

I recently read a book The 13th Day of Christmas, by Jason F. Wright (New York Times best-selling author of Christmas Jars), that takes a creative spin on one of my most beloved Christmas songs ever, The Twelve Days of Christmas. I love Jason Wright's book for many more reasons though. I was touched deeply by its message. It addresses real issues such as social status change, cancer, old age, and others, all while drawing the audience in as if we were all around the hearth drinking hot chocolate together and reading this lovely book.

To add to this coziness, I would like to present to you an All Things Purple exclusive author video from Mr. Wright to all of us:



In closing, the story truly warmed my heart and caused me to think more mindfully about the people around me and the traditions I keep. I hope you might give it a read. To learn more about the book's message go to: www.the13thdayofchristmas.com

And for Reader Appreciation, please note the giveaway happening NOW for a copy of Jason Wright's The 13th Day of Christmas.

Disclosure: I was given one copy for myself and one copy to giveaway in exchange for this review.

Thirty Days of Gratitude: Books

For more information on how to participate in Thirty Days of Gratitude, click here.

If you couldn't tell, I love books. I love reading them; I want to create them; I enjoy reviewing them; and I've found that I thoroughly enjoy giving them away to you lovely people. Books have always played a big part in my life for which I am grateful.

So, in honor of Reader Appreciation Month (no, it's not a national holiday--I just decided it was so because I am so grateful for all of you), I offer you a review of Pingo and the Playground Bully, a children's picture book, and a giveaway of this fabulous book which ends on the eve of November 14th.

Pingo and the Playground Bully by Brandon Mull

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


In a world where bullying never seems to end, books like Pingo and the Playground Bully can make a difference. The simple message it suggests shows all who read it a solution to the ever-present not-so-imaginary monster lurking in the shadows of our society.

The art, done by Brandon Dorman, is colorful, imaginative, and enticing. The coupling of the great message with uniquely expressive artwork makes for a delightful masterpiece of a children's book.

Pingo and the Playground Bully is a picture book, and, yes, it is directed at primary school-aged children, but I suggest it would make a difference at any age in any educational environment.

I recommend it to readers of all ages.


Disclosure: I was given one copy in exchange for this review, as well as one copy to give away to you!



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The Candy Shop War 2: Devoured!

The Arcade Catastrophe by Brandon Mull

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


First off, we all know how much I am in love with purple, so the cover itself was intriguing. The artwork is quality and fun, and the purple clinches it for me. And no, I'm not kidding. We really shouldn't judge books by their covers, but we all do it. And this quick judgment was spot on.

If you liked The Candy Shop War by Brandon Mull, you will enjoy its sequel Arcade Catastrophe even more. The level of intrigue and creativity is pushed farther taking the story in surprising directions.

According to my 13-year old, "The characters have better powers than in the first one." Who needs more motivation to get reading than that, right? Just so you know, he devoured the book in three school days.

In honor of Halloween and Book Appreciation next week, I have a giveaway running on my blog for one copy of The Candy Shop War: Arcade Catastrophe beginning 10/31/2012 and ending 11/7/2012.

Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I received one ARC of The Candy Shop War: Arcade Catastrophe by Brandon Mull in exchange for this review.



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Half-Birthday Bash: Take Two - Day 5

To wrap up the week of gifts and fun, I wanted to try something a tad different (I know, I know. I'm way different already, but still.), so I held a taste-testing party. The people at Indulgent Foods aka the makers of Stephen's Hot Cocoa and Stephen's Gourmet Fry Sauce liked the idea and sponsored the event in trade for an honest review, taste-testing by several people, and a twitter party (hashtag is #friesclub in case you want to check out that bit of shenanigans and join the party) all surrounding the fry sauce they offer.

The #FriesClub IRL Party

the homemade fries got devoured

It was a blast! Everybody, except for one person, very much enjoyed Stephen's Gourmet Fry Sauce, and most everyone said they would definitely be buying some. The opportunity to share a product in a casual party atmosphere was a new thing for me and everyone who attended. It made it easy to conversate about likes and dislikes with no pressure to purchase in the moment. One person said it was too ketchup-y. Another said it had amazing flavor but they wished it was thicker. Pretty much every other taste-tester couldn't get enough of the stuff. The fry sauce was a hit.

My opinion of the fry sauce:

I am not big on dipping stuff in anything except for ranch, but I wanted to give this particular brand a try since I enjoy their hot cocoa so much. So anyways, I found myself not being able to get enough of the sauce just like everyone else. It was tasty. The flavor has just enough savor to add to what you're eating without completely covering it up. Also, the consistency is perfect for getting a nice layer on your fry or hot wing without any sloppy globs. In other words--Stephen's Gourmet Fry Sauce is mouth-watering deliciousness and I definitely recommend it.

To top it all off, we had a raffle for two bottles of the stuff. Congratulations to the winners, Sarah S. and Elise B.! 


Since it was impossible for all of this lovely purple community to come taste test the fry sauce in person, today's gift will be a giveaway for a bottle of the fry sauce.

Many thanks to Indulgent Foods for making the #FriesClub IRL Party possible. 

In addition to the lovely fry sauce giveaway, I have a treat in store for you--literally. Shannon, writer of the fresh, new blog The Luckiest has decided to get on the purple half-birthday bash bandwagon and give all y'all a chance to win some of her delectable homemade chocolate chip cookies.  If you live in the Las Vegas metropolitan area, this giveaway is for you!

* Fry Sauce Giveaway is open to U.S. Residents ONLY *

*(1) dozen Offthehook Chocolate Chip cookies Giveaway is open to Las Vegas residents ONLY*

Half-Birthday Bash: Take Two - Day 4

It's hard to believe the party is nearly over. I have had a great time thus far with making some new connections, reading your comments, and realizing how loved I am by the people who have contributed their products or services to help celebrate my purpleness. Sometimes this purple stuff is so out there that I have to smile at my audacious approach to blogging. It can be cookie cutter some days, and, well, other days it so way is not.  

Ok now, onto the gift! A couple of weeks ago, I said I'd give you a giveaway for doTERRA essential oils, and I'm here to make good on that promise today. Many thanks goes to Jimmy and Angela Atkin of doTERRA Essential Oils for making this fabulous gift possible.

Please take a minute to read my review Fabulous: Essential Oils and then take a crack at winning a Trio-pack containing one of each lavender, lemon, and peppermint oils.

* The doTERRA giveaway is open to anywhere in the world it's legal to participate *

Go enter the other party giveaways:

DAY ONE: free professional photography session

DAY TWO: tag templates

DAY THREE: book and/or gourmet cupcakes

Half-Birthday Bash: Take Two - Day 3

Today marks Hump Day which means we must have something different, so we shall have a book review and give away a couple of books AND for those of you who need a little something for when you read, there are a dozen gourmet cupcakes on today's menu. 

First Things First: The Review

Running Into the Wind: Bronco Mendenhall - 5 Strategies for Building a Successful Team by Paul Gustavson and Alyson Von Feldt

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


A uniquely informative and surprisingly applicable book. Bronco Mendenhall has a story worth telling and reading. The strategies outlined within these pages are not just for football or business, but for anyone wanting to reach out to others and be successful. It has an over-arching theme of positivity.



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Last But NOT Least: The Gourmet Cupcakes

Last year, I had four giveaways. This year, I have six, and half of them are from The Firsties. The celebration just feels more complete now with the announcement that Darcy of My Artistic Ventures is bringing her fabulicious creativity to the party for Wednesday. When I got her message that she was in, I knew the week's festivities were now complete. I'm truly grateful for her generosity.

And just so you know--I have this thing for tradition and as long as this ray of creative sunshine wants to participate in these half-birthday shenanigans, she will always have a spot on Wednesdays. It's only right.

* The book giveaway is only open to residents of the U.S. *

There are TWO hardbound copies to give away!

* The cupcake giveaway is only open to residents of the Salt Lake or Utah Counties *

It's not too late to join in the previous giveaways!
Enter here:

DAY ONE: free photography session 

DAY TWO: Tag Templates (crafty downloads) 

Fabulous: Essential Oils

I did an experiment this summer. A friend gave me a starter-pack of doTERRA essential oils. I promised an honest review. Since I am a lover of tried and true medications and a skeptic of natural stuff (don't ask me why), she really took a leap of faith asking for this review. I do admit that I was intrigued by the experiment, and so I was more than happy for the opportunity.

I used lavender, lemon, and peppermint and here are the results:

Lavender: I used this one the very most (Need you ask why?). I applied it to the bottoms of my children's feet at bedtime and across the back of my neck when feeling stressed. The children usually have a long wind down period, but after some time of using lavender essential oil consistently, they seemed to be able to get to sleep better. They got to liking it so much that they would ask me for it.

I have stress issues. All you have to do is read every other post on here and you'll figure that one out, which means I used the lavender on the back of my neck pretty much daily if not more often. I don't care for the pungent aroma of lavender oil, but it made a difference for me. Who knows if it was just because I knew I was doing something about my stress even when there seemed to be nothing to be done, but it did help calm my nerves. That's all that matters in my book.

Lemon: A few drops of digestible grade doTERRA lemon oil in a glass of water, drinking several glasses a day, takes away swelling. I didn't read this in a book-- a sister-in-law told me and I tried it and it worked.

I had been driving in a car for way too long, staying up way too late, and getting way too little sleep and so my legs and feet suffered with discomfort due to swelling and tension. In my divalicious way, I complained to my sister-in-law. And in her patient-licious way, she reminded me about the lemon essential oil I was supposed to be to trying out and told me about the anti-swelling properties of it. I tried it for a couple of days, reaped the rewards noticeably, then proceeded to forget to continue. At the end of that day, I complained again; she reminded me again; I repented and dutifully used lemon essential oil in my drinking water the rest of the time. It really worked!

Peppermint: I've been told that peppermint essential oil helps to enliven you when sleepy and aids in concentration when studying and such. I tried it and I cannot say for certain if using it directly affected my success, but I know it didn't hurt. The tingling sensation is stimulating, and the scent itself is invigorating.

My peppermint doTERRA essential oil success story comes from when another friend of mine and I were feeling sleepy-ish at church. She had shared peppermint essential oil droplet capsules with me in the past, but this time was different. She told me to put one drop on the back of my hand and lick it with the back end of my tongue, then breathe in deeply. Wow! Talk about cleared sinuses and an awake and alert mind! My nose had been stuffy for quite some time since I have allergies, but not in that moment nor for about 24 more hours afterward. I was astonished by its immediate effectiveness--way better than popping a Sudafed pill that takes twenty minutes to work and causes me to crash and burn after the hype it causes wears off.

Because my experiment had such positive results, I am even more interested in the other benefits of using essential oils and I recommend giving doTERRA essential oils a try.

You can learn more on Facebook here: doTERRA and the direct website here: www.mydoterra.com/oil

To sweeten the end of my experiment, doTERRA essential oils will be part of

The Second Annual All Things Purple Half-Birthday Bash with a giveaway! 

So be sure to come back the week of September 17-21 to join in the celebration.

Disclosure: 

I was given one (1) three-oil trio pack in exchange for this review.

Book Love

The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A fresh and exciting Can't Put It Down Until It's Done book. Go read it. Now. Hurry.



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Eventide: A Whimsical Book of Tales

Goodreads

I've been doing a bit of reading again and found a fun book you might enjoy. It's called Tales of the Dragon's Bard, Book 1: Eventide, even though we shall most certainly be referring to it as Eventide from this point on, okay?  This book is co-authored by a husband and wife Tracy and Laura Hickman. This factoid alone had my interest peaked. How much fun would it be to write a book with someone you love? It's definitely going on my Things to Do With a Real Husband list. So anyways, onto this book review business...

Things I Liked Most

I thoroughly enjoyed the tales within the tale style. You get these micro-bursts of characterization and next thing you know you're back in the regular story and vice versa. It was refreshing and surprising. The many sidenotes between and about Caprice and Jarod play out their struggle in a smart and jagged sort of way which I believe reflects real life; therefore, it was captivating and romantic. 

The character names were simply lovely: Ariela, Caprice, Jarod, Deniva, Beulandreus, and many more. Some of them don't roll off the tongue so well, but neither do the characters. They aren't meant to. Names are the first important part of characterization and these authors figured that out quite well.

Things I Didn't Like So Much

The side tracks, which I very much enjoyed, detracted from the flow of the story until I was able to catch the author's vision of the tales within a tale. After reading for awhile and getting frustrated a bit, it dawned on me and then it worked better. So I just want to give you a heads up in case you have a hard time following the overarching tale at first too.

And the Bard bugged me at times, although I have this funny feeling he is merely fulfilling the measure of his creation. 

Favorite Short Quote

You do know that there is a difference between notoriety and being notorious, don't you? 
-- Farmer Bennis

 Favorite Not So Short Quote

The best quests are those here, close to your heart. The quests in all those distant lands of story seem more important somehow because they are far away--but the quests that make a difference are the smaller ones in the places of power, glory, wealth, and magic that lie just around the corner from your own home. 

-- Farmer Bennis

It appears that I adore Farmer Bennis and his wit and wisdom, but I must tell you there are some other quotes by Jarod that take your breath away. I do not feel comfortable sharing them here because I wouldn't want to spoil anything for you. And yes, I'm quite nice that way--sometimes.

Eventide is a light-hearted, whimsical read chock full of hilarity and adventure. I hope you enjoy it.

a few links to help you get your hands on a copy:

Deseret Book: Audio Book Download

Shadow Mountain

Amazon

p.s.
 
I have a giveaway going (just under the site banner) as we speak that you might want to take a peek at.

Disclaimer

I was given one ARC of Eventide for myself in exchange for this reveiw and one hardbound copy to give away to one very lucky reader.