Monday, May 7, 2012

Free Amazon Ebook Saturday

Don't forget you don't have to have a Kindle to read these books. Don't have a Kindle? Download a free Kindle reader for iphone, ipad, android, windows pc, mac, blackberry, webOS, kindle cloud reader and windows phone.

Homeschooling In Your Garden (Easy Homeschooling) by, Jim Erickson
save $2.99/FREE

Book Description:

Want to know how you can integrate your homeschool studies with gardening? Looking for ways to motivate your kids to get into the garden... and LIKE it? Wondering how to keep gardening positive and fun for your kids? Look no further: Here is a collection of practical, "real life" advice offered to you by over 300 other homeschooling families who have done just that! This treasury of ideas, tips and activities is filled with wonderful, practical, proven ideas for you… Read, glean, and use what works for your family in YOUR garden this year!



Traveling light by, Vickie Johnstone
save $.99/FREE

Book Description:

A handful of poems about people wandering the world with their dreams, searching for something.


The One You Love (suspense mystery) by, Paul Pilkington
save $.99/FREE

Book Description:

Emma Holden's nightmare has just begun. Her fiancé vanishes, leaving the battered and bloodied body of his brother in their London apartment. Someone is stalking her, watching her every move. And her family are hiding a horrifying secret; a secret that threatens all those she loves. In a desperate race against time, Emma must uncover the truth if she ever wants to see her fiancé alive again.

The One You Love is a fast-paced suspense mystery, full of twists and turns, following in the tradition of writers such as Nicci French and Sophie Hannah.

Since July 2011 it has been downloaded over 900,000 times, has spent a full month at number 1 in the UK Kindle free download chart (July-August 2011), and reached the top of the US Kindle free download chart.

This edition (24th December 2011) addresses the editing and proofing issues of the first release.

Paul's latest suspense mystery, Someone to Save You, is also available on Kindle. Praise for Someone to Save You:

Trouble in Mudbug (Ghost-in-Law Mystery/Romance Series)by, Jana DeLeon
save $2.99/FREE

Book Description:

Scientist Maryse Robicheaux thought that a lot of her problems had gone away with her mother-in-law’s death. The woman was rude, pushy, manipulative and used her considerable wealth to run herd over the entire town of Mudbug, Louisiana.

Unfortunately, death doesn’t slow down Helena one bit.

DEA Agent Luc LeJeune is wondering what his undercover assignment investigating the sexy scientist has gotten him into – especially as it seems someone wants her dead. Keeping his secrets while protecting Maryse proves to be easier than fighting his attraction for the brainy beauty.

(Note: This book is part of the author’s backlist, originally released in print in 2009 by Dorchester Publishing)

Visit www.janadeleon.com for more information on the author and her books.

Almost a Bride (Wyoming Wildflowers Book 1) by, Patricia McLinn
save $2.99/FREE

Book Description:

"A don't-miss treat!" -- Rendezvous

Wyoming Wildflowers -- Book 1 -- Indian Paintbrush
Originally published by Silhouette Special Edition

Dave Currick was everything Matty Brennan wanted for as along as she could remember. Right up until he broke her heart six years ago. Now that she’s returned to Wyoming for good, what she wants more than anything is to save her family’s ranch. Even if that means swallowing her pride and asking Dave to marry her.

Matty’s up to something – Dave knows that much. Just as he knows that Matty needs help, so of course he’ll provide it, just as he has all her life. Doing what’s best for Matty is second nature. Even when it comes to marrying her in name only. Although he can’t resist one hot-blooded kiss after the I-dos.

Maybe – just maybe – his Matty will become more to him than Almost a Bride.



Love Me (Contemporary Romance) (Take Me) by, Bella Andre
save $9.99/FREE

Book Description:
If there's one thing that Janica Ellis is absolutely certain of, it's that she and Luke Carson are totally wrong for each other. She's a wild, artistic and outspoken fashion designer. He's a type A, workaholic trauma surgeon (who just happens to be sizzling hot and her brother-in-law!). But Janica is about to be proven wrong when opposites attract...in the sexiest possible way.

After a life-changing night in the ER, Luke is desperate for escape - and relief from his personal demons. For five years he has fought his attraction to his sister-in-law, but when he's pushed too far, he can't fight it another second. He needs her. Desperately. He's spent his whole life doing the right thing. For one night, he's going to follow desire instead. Straight into Janica's arms.

Janica can't believe Luke is finally at her front door...and that he's kissing her like he's been waiting his whole life to touch her. But even as their sensual connection deepens with every touch of skin on skin - and the man she always thought was such a good boy turns out to be sinfully, toe-curlingly bad between the sheets - Janica soon realizes she wants more than Luke's body. She wants his heart too. But what will Luke do when one night of extreme passion turns into an all or nothing proposition? (Steamy scenes, graphic and explicit sex...and lots of emotion.)


Taboo (A Classic Romance) by, Mallory Rush
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Book Description: 

Too close for comfort...

They had been raised as brother and sister since Cammie Walker lost her family in a deadly car crash. Little did she realize that Grant Kennedy had wanted to be anything but a brother since she took up residence in his heart when she moved into his childhood home.

But when fate intervenes and frees him from years of stolen touches, Cammie must decide if she can forfeit the only family she has left in exchange for a lover who is strictly taboo…

OTHER TITLES by Mallory Rush
Date With The Devil (A Classic Romance)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mallory Rush, aka Olivia Rupprecht, has had 17 novels published by Bantam, Doubleday, Harlequin Books, and Dorchester Publishing. Her titles have frequented fiction bestseller lists and are translated into many foreign languages. She is the series developer for True Vows, the first reality-based romance line from HCI Books. Visit the author at www.malloryrush.com.



Call of the Herald (Godsland Series: Book One) by, Brian Rathbone
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Book Description:

Reviews

"...kind of like a cross between The Lord of the Rings
and Harry Potter...I honestly could not stop reading this book. I
completed it in two days, it was that good." Cheryl's Book Nook - March
2009 review of The Dawning of Power trilogy

"...a bit like
Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, Terry Brooks' Shannara series, and
Paolini's Eragon saga rolled into one." Melissa's Bookshelf April, 2009
review of The Dawning of Power trilogy

"I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I would recommend this book for all ages."
Linda Weaver Clarke, author of the new mystery series "The Adventures of John and Julia Evans."

Product Description

Book
One of The Dawning of Power trilogy. Echoes of the ancients' power are
distant memories, tattered and faded by the passage of eons, but that is
about to change. A new dawn has arrived. Latent abilities, harbored in
mankind's deepest fibers, wait to be unleashed. Ancient evils awaken,
and old fears ignite the fires of war.



Inherited Danger (Godsland Series: Book Two) by, Brian Rothbone
save $.99/FREE

Book Description:

Reviews

"Another great fantasy!"
- Lynda Williams, author of the Okal Rel saga

"...I was completely drawn into Brian's story. The characters were real people with honest feelings..."
- Arlene Radasky, author of The Fox


Product Description


Inherited Danger is Book Two of The Dawning of Power trilogy. Leaving her homeland behind, Catrin Volker goes in search of knowledge and peace, unaware that she will face the greatest evil her world has ever known.



Chosen (Guardians of the Word) by, Jolea M Harrison
save $11.66/FREE

Book Description:

Chosen is a fantasy adventure - location; Hell, Purgatory, the Demon’s Lair, and Hell is everything it’s cracked up to be.

Sixteen-year-old Dynan Telaerin finds himself on a corpse-strewn hillside, uncertain if he's dead or alive, charged with saving the soul of his ancestor, the most powerful telepath to ever exist. Dynan has telepathic powers of his own, only he doesn’t know how to use them. With monsters and minions trying to eat his soul, the demon’s lair isn’t the place to learn anything - except how to run and how to hide. Will courage alone be enough to face the greatest evil to exist? Will he lose his soul to save everyone else?

The running starts, and doesn't stop to the end of this action packed adventure of a young man coming to terms with his life while he's barely a spirit, through horrors he thought existed only in dreams.

Chosen is the first book of the series, The Guardians of the Word.

Be sure to look for Myth, the second book of the Guardians of the Word series, and Telepath, the third book, released Feb. 5, 2012. Legend will be released in May, 2012.



Demonsouled by, Jonathan Moeller
save $2.99/FREE

Book Description:

For fans of Robert E. Howard, David Gemmell, and Raymond E. Feist, here is a new story of sword and sorcery.

Banished for fifteen years, the wandering knight Mazael Cravenlock returns home at last to the Grim Marches, only to find war and chaos. His brother plans a foolish and doomed rebellion. His sister hopes to wed a brutal and cruel knight. The whispers speak of living corpses that stalk the night, of demons that lurk in darkness, and a sinister snake-cult that waits in the shadows.

Yet Mazael's darkest enemy waits elsewhere.

Within his own tainted soul...

First published in 2005 from Gale/Five Star, now updated and revised in a new electronic edition.

PRAISE FOR DEMONSOULED:

“…action-packed, fast-moving tale…a solid debut novel…”
-Fantasy Book Spot

“a gripping account of one man’s battle against both inner and external demons, and I would recommend it to anyone who desires an action-packed story riddled with twists . . . ”
-Sffworld.com

“Jonathan Moeller has written an epic fantasy in its classic form that all lovers of fantasy will embrace.”
-Love Romances

“Jonathan Moeller will definitely capture the attention of many with DEMONSOULED, a suspenseful fantasy novel that is not to be missed.”
-Romance Reviews Today

“Here’s a fantasy adventure with plenty of thrills and chills. After a gap of many years, a hardy warrior and his companions return to their homeland. One of them discovers that his sister has been kidnapped and that his brother is plotting an ill advised rebellion against a less than sterling local ruler. Throw in some malevolent magic including a small army of reanimated corpses, a secretive plot, lots of derring do, a sinister mystery, and a magical assault that threatens to turn our hero into an instrument of evil. Exciting, occasionally surprising, with readable prose and a diverse set of characters. What more could you ask?”
-Don D’ammassa

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Standing over six feet tall, Jonathan Moeller has the piercing blue eyes of a Conan of Cimmeria, the bronze-colored hair a Visigothic warrior-king, and the stern visage of a captain of men, none of which are useful in his career as a computer repairman, alas.

He has written the "Demonsouled" trilogy of sword-and-sorcery novels, and continues to write the "Ghosts" sequence about assassin and spy Caina Amalas, the "$0.99 Beginner's Guide" series of computer books, and numerous other works.

Visit his website at:

http://www.jonathanmoeller.com

Visit his technology blog at:

http://www.jonathanmoeller.com/screed



Child of the Ghosts by, Jonathan Moeller
save $2.99/FREE

Book Description:

For fans of Marion Zimmer Bradley's "Sword & Sorceress", Tamora Pierce, Robin McKinley, and Jennifer Roberson, here is a new story of a woman's fight against an ancient evil.

When her life is torn apart by sorcery and murder, young Caina Amalas joins the mysterious Ghosts, the legendary spies and assassins of the Emperor of Nighmar. She learns the secrets of disguise and stealth, of assassination and infiltration.

But even that might not be enough to save her.

For the evil that destroyed her family seeks to devour the entire world...

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Standing over six feet tall, Jonathan Moeller has the piercing blue eyes of a Conan of Cimmeria, the bronze-colored hair a Visigothic warrior-king, and the stern visage of a captain of men, none of which are useful in his career as a computer repairman, alas.

He has written the "Demonsouled" trilogy of sword-and-sorcery novels, and continues to write the "Ghosts" sequence about assassin and spy Caina Amalas, the "$0.99 Beginner's Guide" series of computer books, and numerous other works.

Visit his website at:

http://www.jonathanmoeller.com

Visit his technology blog at:

http://www.jonathanmoeller.com/screed



Shadowbloom (Rhyme of the Willow) by, The Sullivan Brothers
save $8.99/FREE

Book Description:

SHADOWBLOOM
Rhyme of the Willow
(Book One)

When Axton and Aniva Rhyme were three years old, their parents disappeared. There were no letters, no bodies, no explanations of any kind – they had just vanished. All that remained was their car: a vehicle crashed against a willow tree.

Now, thirteen years have passed, and with the appearance of a woman with lime-green eyes and emerald vines for hair, Axton and Aniva are drawn back to that same willow. A place awaits them through a veil of foliage, full of plant wonders unlike anything they have ever imagined. The twins will find a Garden full of thought-carrying Linkroots, bone-crushing Tanglervines, spore-filled Pumpershrooms, and berries from crimson Bloodvines . . .

Berries that will change a human into a fearsome Wild with just a single drop of juice.

Look for DARKROOT, Book Two, coming soon!
For more information, please visit our website:
www.rhymeofthewillow.com



The Emperor's Edge by, Lindsay Buroker
save $11.99/FREE

Book Description

Imperial law enforcer Amaranthe Lokdon is good at her job: she can deter thieves and pacify thugs, if not with a blade, then by toppling an eight-foot pile of coffee canisters onto their heads. But when ravaged bodies show up on the waterfront, an arson covers up human sacrifices, and a powerful business coalition plots to kill the emperor, she feels a tad overwhelmed.

Worse, Sicarius, the empire's most notorious assassin, is in town. He's tied in with the chaos somehow, but Amaranthe would be a fool to cross his path. Unfortunately, her superiors order her to hunt him down. Either they have an unprecedented belief in her skills... or someone wants her dead.

The Emperor's Edge is approximately 105,000 words.


Gifted Apprentice by, Nicholas A Rose
save $.99/FREE

Book Description

Ordinary boy, extraordinary destiny.
*
Sallis ti Ath lies seriously ill and only a touch-healer, usually the preserve of the wealthy, can save his life. But when Elvallon heals the sick boy, he reveals that Sallis is Gifted, one of the few born to touch the power that allows the universe to exist.

But the boy's skills turn out very differently from anything Elvallon expected.
*
Novella of 24 thousand words. Sequel: "Gifted Hunter"


Winter's Bite by, Annie Bellet
save $1.49/FREE

Book Description:

Many years ago, Ysabon made her living by the sword as a skilled mercenary. Now she lives in Westedge with her brother's children, tending to the animals and afraid of dying old and useless. When a horrible winter storm drives monsters down from the mountains, Ysabon can save her family and her village if only she can find the strength and take up the sword for a final battle.

Winter's Bite is a fantasy short story.

*Bonus Material*
Read the first five chapters of A Heart in Sun & Shadow, a fantasy novel set in an ancient Wales that never was.



Crimzon & Clover by, M.R. Mathias
save $1.00/FREE

Book Description:

It isn't wise to mess with a girl and her dragon, at least not these two.

A young dragon, named Crimzariathon, loses his mother to lair raiders and is left to fend for himself. A lucky girl, aptly named Clover, happens upon him and together they form a lasting bond. When more men come to raid the lair the two are forced to defend themselves, and each other, in a wicked battle. Magic, swordplay, and dragon riding glory await in this satisfying 25 page short story.

Snippet:
The cool night air rushed over them as they circled slowly upward on Crimzon's strong, steady thrusts. In the dragon's head his mother's soft voice whispered both instruction and encouragement, and the feeling of Clover on his back gave him the confidence and reassurance he needed to avoid falter.

They climbed so high into the sky that Clover thought she just might be able to touch the stars twinkling above them. Her blood was electric with sensation. Her skin was chilled by the rushing air and her stomach was tingling as if full of wiggling snakes. She drew in a deep breath trying to calm herself but it was no use. Just as soon as she exhaled Crimzon rolled to the right and then dove sharply, leaving the wiggling snakes from Clover's belly lumped in the back of her throat. Her mind was spinning like a whirlpool.

Far below, the majesty of the moonlit valleys and the hue of colors reflecting from the rocky snow-capped ridges unfolded before them. Clover marveled at the dozens of rivers and streams that glittered like strands and pools of molten gold. The force of the air pressed hard against her as Crimzon dove. She began to feel dizzy and distant, but before she slipped into unconsciousness, the dragon leveled out and sped them across the treetops at such speed that all Clover could see below was a shadowy blur. Soon their momentum died away and Crimzon began to circle and rise again, but now at a more relaxed pace. Clover was glad. She felt rubbery and nauseated. Sick or not she had to admit that it was the most exhilarating experience she had ever had.

A flash fiction short story called 'The Blood of Coldfrost' and a short preview of 'The Royal Dragoneers' novel are included in this download as well.

Also by M.R. Mathias
Short Stories:
Crimzon & Clover I - Orphaned Dragon, Lucky Girl
Crimzon & Clover II - The Tricky Wizard
Crimzon & Clover III - The Grog
Crimzon & Clover IV - The Wrath of Crimzon

Oathbreaker - A Faery Tale Short
King of Fools
Novels:
The Saga of the Dragoneers:
The First Dragoneer - Free
The Royal Dragoneers - Now Available
Cold Hearted Son of a Witch - Now Available
The Confliction - Now Available

The Adventurion
And don't miss the huge International Bestselling epic:
The Wardstone Trilogy
Book One - The Sword and the Dragon
Book Two - Kings, Queens, Heroes, & Fools
Book Three - The Wizard & the Warlord



Light Of Eidon (Legends of the Guardian-King) by Karen Hancock
save $6.99/FREE

Book Description:

Book 1 of Legends of the Guardian King which follows the life of Abramm Kalladorne in his turbulent search for truth and self--a search that will transform him from a sickly, head-in-the-clouds youth to a legendary hero of strength and courage. Set in a world of swords and cloaks, of glittering palaces and mystical temples, of galley ships and ancient, mist-bound cities, his journey illustrates how God pursues and how He uses suffering to mold His children into something greater than was ever thought possible. Written by Karen Hancock, the acclaimed author of Arena.



Priced to Move (Shop-Til-U-Drop, Book 1) by, Ginny Aiken
save $6.99/FREE

Book Description:

Gemologist Andrea Adams is suffering a bad case of burnout at her plum job in the New York Diamond District. So she swaps the Big Apple for Louisville, Kentucky, and joins the S.T.U.D. television shopping network as its newest host. When she's paired up with a hunky but clueless Ken doll of a cohost, Andrea wonders if she made the right move. Top it all off with foul play, a trip to Myanmar, and lots and lots of rubies, and you've got a story any woman would like to read. This exciting and fast-paced novel kicks off Ginny Aiken's Shop-Til-U-Drop Collection.



To Love Anew (Sydney Cove Series #1) by, Bonnie Leon
save $6.99/FREE

Book Description:

Hannah Talbot has no one. Forced to leave the only home she's ever known, she works for a cruel employer who brutally takes the one thing she has left--her dignity. When she is banished from London, she is certain God has turned his back on her.

John Bradshaw was a successful businessman whose untamed spirit sometimes wanted more. When he is betrayed by those closest to him, he loses everything--his wife, his business, even his freedom. John's and Hannah's paths are about to cross. Aboard a ghastly, nineteenth-century prison ship from London to Australia, John and Hannah must keep hope alive and trust God's unconditional love.



Homespun Bride by, Jillian Hart
save $4.95/FREE

Book Description:

Montana Territory in 1883 was a dangerous place--especially for a blind woman struggling to make her way through an early winter snowstorm. Undaunted, Noelle Kramer fought to remain independent. But then a runaway horse nearly plunged her into a rushing, ice-choked river, before a stranger's strong, sure hand saved her from certain death.

And yet this was no stranger. Though she could not know it, her rescuer was rancher Thad McKaslin, the man who had once loved her more than life itself. Losing her had shaken all his most deeply held beliefs. Now he wondered if the return of this strong woman



A Very Special Delivery by, Linda Goodnight
save $4.99/FREE

Book Description:

It was the surprise of a lifetime for recluse Molly McCreight when single dad Ethan Hunter entrusted her with his infant daughter while he delivered medicine to an elderly man during an ice storm. Past experience had taught Molly how fragile life could be, but she was touched by this stranger's faith in her abilities. Once the storm had passed, though, and her guests returned home, normalcy eluded Molly. The Hunters' presence had brought much-needed joy to her quiet world, but their absence threatened to crush her forever. Still, was she ready to admit that this tiny family held the key to the future she'd craved.

I've been looking for Mother's Day crafting ideas and handprint crafts was high on my list. I made a sweatshirt for my grandma once that had all of her great grand-kids handprints on it...I had more running around time involved in making it than in actually making it. Even so, I'm not an expert when it comes to working with plaster paris so I found the next best thing.  I'm going to pick up my grandson tomorrow and we're going to try these out while he still has his tiny 3-year-old hands! I hope lots of mama's get some handprints for Mothers Day.

handprint crafts

Crafting - Easy Baby Handprint Crafts

Handprints of your baby make treasured gifts that last a lifetime. Handprint crafts are inexpensive and easy to create with the right instructions and you can choose painted handprints, plaster of paris handprints and more. Enjoy making an adorable piece of art that will always be cherished by parents, grandparents and of course the children.

Below you will find projects for baby handprints complete with instructions and tips. These crafts are easy and enjoyable to do and the cost is small for such a large return.

Painted Hands Craft:

Start by painting baby's hand generously with ceramic paint in the color of your choice. Once painted, press baby's hands down onto an unglazed plate. After you have achieved the desired handprint, wash baby's hands thoroughly.

Now take a pencil and draw a design around the border of the plate adding baby's birth date if desired. Use a fine paint brush and paint over the design you have drawn using ceramic paint. Write baby's name in the center of the plate with the pencil next to the handprint. Now the plate will need to be glazed and fired to finish it. Using a hot glue gun, glue a ribbon to the back of the plate to use for hanging the plate on a wall or you can display it using a plate stand.

Tip: If needed, use a local pottery shop to have your plate fired.

painting kids hand

Clay Impressions:

To get started, you will need some craft clay (the type that will harden after being worked with). Take the clay and shape it into a shape you desire the baby's handprints to placed on and be sure it is large enough to accommodate baby's hands. Make two holes at the top for putting wire or ribbon through for hanging. You may want to write out baby's name and birth date if desired near the top.

Now you are ready to take the baby's hands and press them firmly into the clay. If desired you can paint your clay creation or just leave it as is. Once dried you can place the ribbon or wire through the holes and hang your creation on the wall. You have easily made a beautiful and sentimental art piece for the entire family to enjoy.

Baby Box:

You will need a small box that is already stained. Mix together black and white child-safe paints to make the color gray. Place baby's palms into the gray paint and tenderly press them down on a piece of paper. Once the handprints have dried you will need to cut the prints out with a pair of scissors. Apply a thin coat of mod-podge to the back of the cut out prints and adhere them to the lid of the box. After the mod-podge has completely dried put another thin coat of mod-podge over the entire box.

Tip: With the use of colored paint and a thin paint brush you can add baby's name and date of birth before you mod-podge the entire box.

Plaster of Paris:

The items you will need for this craft are as follows: plaster of paris, 1 and 1/4 cup of water, small container for mixing, mixing spoon and a paper plate. In your small container place 2 cups of plaster of paris and slowly pour 1/4 cup of water at a time onto the plaster of paris while stirring; this will keep mixture smooth and without lumps. This mixing process should take no longer that 1 minute.

Once you have finished mixing you have 20 minutes to form your cast on the paper plate before it hardens. After washing and drying baby's hands, press baby's palms down firmly in to the formed plaster of paris for 3 minutes. Be sure to wash baby's hands promptly after you remove them from the mixture. Let the plaster sit for 12 to 24 hours in order to dry completely. With the use of a plate easel, baby's handprints can be easily displayed for all to see.

Tip:

  • Have enough plaster of paris on hand in case the first handprints don't come out very good so you can try again.

Find more free patterns for baby handprint crafts and baby footprint crafts along with many more craft ideas.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5174395

photos by: wildolive, Claudia_GM and margaretglin
This is the second article in the DIY Soap Making Series.
DIY Make Your Own Bar Soap, Part 1

Customizing Your Homemade Soap

Oils/Fats

There are lots of different ways you can customize your soap. To make the best soap for your skin type, you may want to try different oils. Everyone has a certain type of soap they like.  That's a good place to start-check out the ingredients in your favorite soap. There's really no way around trial and error when it comes to any part of soap making.

Some commonly used oils include: olive oil, coconut oil, cocoa butter, jojoba butter, and Shea butter and even plain lard, yup Crisco.

The correct amount varies depending on which oil you use. The process of soap making revolves around the types and amounts of fat you use. Every fat and every type (solid,liquid) of fat is taken into consideration. In part one I stressed the importance of using the lye calculator to get your recipe. Enter the types and amounts of fats you want to find the amount of lye to use. For your fragrance customization you will want to use the fragrance calculator.


Fragrance

You may want to personalize your soap with wonderful scents.  I love scented soap, and scented everything for that matter. Essential oils have therapeutic properties and add fragrance. Using a dab of essential oils in your soap is a great way to make it your own.  You can choose citrus scents to awake and energize or lavender or camomile to relax.

A little fragrance goes a long way. The amount you use will depend on how much soap you're making. Use this fragrance calculator to find the amount to use in comparison to your soap batch size. You may be amazed to find that you will be using the size of a pea in the batch size I made.  Adding more than needed will affect the soap making process.


Exfoliates

Oatmeal, cornmeal, crushed vanilla beans and other grains can be added as exfoliates. And skin-safe colorants may be used to produce a desired color.

There are a hundreds of websites offering the items you might want to use.  For me, I found everything for customization at home. My main reason for making my own soap is to save money. Maybe next time I will bring my mom and daughter in on it with me so we can share the cost of some goodies.

Surprisingly, for the size of the recipe we made, you will only need a teaspoon or 2 of crushed up oats as an exfoliate.

Instructions

Collect your ingredients, mix together and add to a cup of the soap mixture after trace, then stir back into the rest of the soap mixture (mixing well) immediately before pouring into the mold.

Tips

  • Be sure and add the ingredients right before you pour into the molds to insure that they spread out evenly throughout the soap and won't fall to the bottom.
  • Use this fragrance calculator to get your fragrance amount.  Adding too much can mess up the soap making process and affect the outcome.
  • Try using home items and getting together with family and friends to really expand your customization options.
Photo Credits

Frontier Freedom

homemadelaundrysoap

This is the first article in the DIY Soap Making Series
DIY Making Your Own Bar Soap, Part 2 Customization

Making Homemade Bar Soap, PART 1 Mixing


A few months ago I started making my own laundry detergent after almost fainting over the prices in the stores (even after coupons!). I've been so happy with the outcome and I haven't had to make anymore yet. So, I decided to push my luck and give bar soap making a go. My soap is still curing but it looks hopeful so there will be an update later! Maybe some of these tips can help you decide if you want to try making your own bar soap at home.

Making your own soap has some definite advantages. We can make our own soap cheaper than we can buy it. Making it ourselves also gives us complete control over the ingredients, so we can create a soap that's perfect for our skin type in scents that we love.

After your first batch you can increase your amounts to do large batches and squeeze out even more savings. I don't recommend doing this with your first batch for two reasons:

1) What if you're not real happy with the ingredients that you choose? Maybe you want to try vanilla beans instead of oatmeal or jojoba oils instead of lard. You won't have tons of soap that you don't care for to use up. Think of this as your trial and error batch!

2) It's already going to take the longest time with your first batch-it will get easier and easier every time you make it.  It's easier to control a smaller batch. You can start on your second batch whenever you want because the soaps have to cure. Get the basics down first!

Safety First!!


Safety can't be expressed enough when it comes to making soap because you will be working with lye.  This isn't something you should involve your children in. Actually you may want to do this while you're the only one home to avoid any accidents or disruptions. The soap will need your attention for up to 3 hours on your first DIY batch.

  • WEAR GOGGLE!! You will be working with Lye, your eyes could get splashed.
  • WEAR GLOVES, same reason as above.
  • Wear old clothes.

If there are two things I would like you to remember from this articles it's to please wear safety goggles and when mixing the lye and water, add the lye to the water.  According to Majestic Mountain, (great website for extra information on soap making) It's important to add the lye to the water and not the water to the lye.  It could cause a volcano type reaction. So please add the lye to the water. You will be fine if you remember these two things.

Making soap is much easier than you might think. I don't want you to think this is a tedious task because it's not, it's fun and easy.  Safety first always!



Here's the supplies you will need:



  • molds that you will pour the soap into to let it set, you can use a cardboard box lined with plastic wrap, a drawer organizer, or even a drawer. Depending on how much you are making you can use the cookie tray that comes in the boxes of cookies we love to eat. Line all with plastic wrap
  • plastic wrap
  • extra towels for insulating the molds
  • soap spoon or a spoon...no wooden spoons
  • scale (even if you have to borrow the neighbors, please weigh the ingredients, it will make a huge impact on the soaps outcome)
  • large pot, don't use aluminum
  • goggles
  • gloves
  • medium to large glass bowl, you will be able to choose which bowl to use by the end of this article.


Optional supplies:



  • thermometer, stainless steel
  • microwavable plastic pot
  • immersion blender (ONLY, no other types of blenders should be used due to the air they will pull in)


Ingredients


This is where the fun starts.

  • lye (about 2.2 - 2.7 oz)
  • water (6 fluid oz per lb of fat, or about 30% of the total recipe)
  • oils, fats (about 16 oz.)(can be mixed up with different kinds. ie. 5 oz jojoba oil, 5 oz shea butter, 6 oz Crisco)

This lye calculator is a must for making your homemade soap. Enter into it what you want in your recipe and you will get a printout telling you how much of water and lye you will need.

You will be doing yourself a favor to read the "How to Enter Your Own Recipe" first.

Optional Ingredients:



  • fragrances
  • oats, ground beans...ie..vanilla, flax
  • milk, in place of water


Instructions


Once you have your safety goggles and gloves on, step outside with the water, lye, spoon and glass bowl.  Stand downwind. Put the water in the bowl and slowly add the lye to the water (only slow enough that it doesn't splash back on you). Stir the water and lye together until the lye dissolves in the water.  The lye will cause a heat reaction so you will want to set it aside to cool.  Allow it to cool to 100-125 degrees.

Whether you are using one, two or three oils, mix them together and warm them slowly on the stove. You can also put them all in a plastic microwavable bowl and melt them that way.  When the ingredients are mixed well and melted allow to cool to 100-125 degrees.

Combine the two mixtures in a large pot on the stove. Start stirring. Stir until trace. Trace is when the mixture no longer separates into water on the bottom and oil on the top. There is a slight thickening, slight color change and the mixture appears smooth in consistency.  This can take from 5 minutes to an hour or more.  This is where an immersion blender will come in handy.  It will accelerate trace in the mixture. You can stir for 5, leave for 15, stir for 5 etc.  It depends on how things are coming along for you.

It's time to customize your soap!

Making_Soap_pouring

Once tracing occurs and you have your soap customized pour it into your plastic wrap lined molds. Without getting the soap on the towels, cover the molds with the towels and pack the towels around your molds to insulate them.  Leave the soap to sit for 18-24 hours. Then remove the soap from the molds and cut into bars.

After you have cut the soap it will have to cure. Curing is basically waiting for the water to leave the soap.  It's called saponification. If you don't cure the soap long enough it will be too soft and it won't last very long. Depending on how your soap mixture turns out you will cure the soap from 3-6 weeks.

homemade-soap drying

Making your own homemade bar soap is easy once you have the hang of it.  Don't let your first time deter you from giving it another go. Practice makes perfect!  Before you know it your friends and family will be asking for you to make them specialized soaps.  Coming up with the perfect concoction for your skin is rewarding, and sweetly scented homemade soaps make wonderful gifts for any occasion. You can also recap your initial expenses by selling your homemade soap or whipping up a few gift baskets and selling them.

Tips



  • Cut your soap into blocks as soon as you can. The longer you wait, the harder the soap gets making it almost impossible to cut,
  • Look in your phone book under chemicals lye.  Ask for lye which may be better known as sodium hydroxide, or caustic soda.
  • Ask for technical grade not lab grade. Lab grade is often 3 to 10 times the price.
  • Weigh everything 2 or 3 times. Getting the weight right has a huge impact on the soaps outcome.
  • Play around with different scents and exfoliates. Keep good notes.
  • Use the lye calculator when putting your recipe together.  There's lots involved in getting the correct amounts of products together.  Each fat affects your recipe differently. The amounts I have listed above are from the recipe I entered into the lye calculator.
  • Consider getting a group of family and friends together and sharing in the cost. You will be able to try different recipes without spending any extra money.

Photo Credit

New Life On A Homestead

terrycorum

codashaven

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Free Amazon Ebook Roundup

What do I love more than a good read? A good FREE read! That's why I love reading and following blogs.

When I purchased my Android phone a few months back I noticed that I have an application on it called Amazon Kindle reader...wow, you don't even have to buy a Kindle anymore. I also have the Android tablet and have the Kindle reader on that as well. I know what you're thinking but...well, I'm a writer so I need these things.

Amazon also has a free Kindle cloud reader. It's all right there and easy to set up so that you can use the one click button to have these books sent straight to your reader.

It took me a few months to stumble across the free eBooks that Amazon.com has to offer. I'm always looking for a good deal and this one is "the real" good deal. So I thought I would share some of my recent eBook findings.

Some of these books are of no interest to me but may be of interest to someone else so I will list a few here that I've found today.

This post will age like all the others so keep in mind that if you find this post 2 months from now the eBooks may not be free any longer.

Live Organic (52 Brilliant ideas), by Lynn Huggins-Cooper
save $7.95/FREE

Book Description: a picture of the book Live Organic
Going organic is the latest trend when it comes to food, and plenty of us have jumped at the chance to have more healthy eating options. Clothing has jumped on the organic bandwagon in recent months too, but aside from these two areas it's hard to see where else you can go from chemical to natural without having to spend hours researching organic products and then a fortune buying them. But it is possible to make your whole life organic without breaking the bank or giving up the little luxuries you love, and with the help of Live organic it's easier then ever to go natural. From organic cleaning solutions to chemical-free clothing, and from natural foods to fantastic organic flowers, Live organic has every aspect of organic living covered. Whether you're searching for the perfect organic food supplier, or looking to swap your chemical-packed cleanser with something all-natural, expert author Lynn Huggins Cooper can help you turn your lifestyle from chemical nightmare to organic dream. Simply brilliant.



The Everything Grow Your Own Vegetables Book: Your Complete Guide to planting, tending, and harvesting vegetables, by Catherine Abbott
save $15.95/FREE

Book Description: a picture of the book The Everything Grow Your Own Vegetables Book
Vine-ripened tomatoes. Succulent squash. Plump cucumbers.

Growing vegetables is a rewarding—and cost-effective—way to eat better for less. Yet many don’t know where to start.

Author and farmer Catherine Abbott answers questions like:
  • What is the best way to maximize my garden space?
  • How do I get started growing food to sustain my family?
  • Can I grow vegetables inside my house?
  • How can I tell if my vegetables are primed for eating?
  • Will I really save money by growing my own?
You will find affordable tips on how to plant and harvest more than thirty common vegetables, from spinach and eggplant to corn and beans. Abbott’s expertise shines on planting, fertilizing, watering, weeding, and troubleshooting. This book has everything you need to grow fresh, delicious veggies in any climate, any time of year!



Practically Green: Your Guide to Ecofriendly Decision-Making, by Micaela Preston
save $18.99/FREE

Book Description:
Simple steps for sustainable living
Creating a green and healthy home might seem like an overwhelming task at times. Practically Green takes the practical approach to mindful living: Start small and go from there. Author Micaela Preston takes the guesswork out of green living by helping you make smart, healthy choices for your family without spending tedious hours researching the pros and cons of all the products available on the market today.

In Practically Green you'll find:
  • Simple copy-and-clip guides that make it easy to buy smart
  • At-a-glance charts and lists that break down complicated information in an easy-to-understand manner
  • 30+ DIY projects and ideas for making-it-green yourself, including instructions for making all-natural body care products, simple sewing projects and much more
  • Healthy, tasty recipes to please kids and adults alike, ideas for packing greener lunches plus tips and tricks for replacing packaged convenience snacks with home-made versions
Let Practically Green guide you to a greener life!



The Fitting Room: Putting on the Character of Christ, by Kelly MinterThe Price went back up to $14.99

Book Description:
Kelly Minter explores what it means—in real life—to “clothe” ourselves (Col. 3:12) in Christian virtues like forgiveness, joy, patience, compassion, and more.
Colossians 3:12 tells us to “clothe” ourselves in Christian virtues like forgiveness, joy, patience, compassion. But how does that work in real life? Can we really “dress up” in the character of Christ? Kelly Minter says the answer is yes—if we let the Master Designer do the fitting. This relatable book offers insightful Scripture study with real-life stories and simple, down-to-earth explanations of tricky concepts as justification and sanctification—stitching it all together with dry humor and down-to-earth honesty. There are no gimmicks, no guilt trips, just an irresistible invitation for women to enjoy a spiritual makeover—to put on a life that’s personally tailored by the One who knows and loves them best.



The Ugly Duckling (Illustrated), by Hans Christian Anderson
save $16.99/FREE

Book Description: picture of the book The Ugly Duckling
A classic story by Hans Christian Andersen presented with modern illustrations. The story of how a little bird endures the abuses and miseries as he was growing up not realizing he would mature into a beautiful swan. It’s a great tale about personal transformation for the better.

"It is only with the heart that one can see clearly, for the most essential things are invisible to the eye."
– Antonie De Sainte Exupery



Main Attraction (Perfectly Wicked, Book One), by Anna J. EvansThe price went back up to $1.49

Book Description:
Book One in the Perfectly Wicked series.Edna Emily Argent Rella runs the Wicked Stepmother and her Stepsisters S&M parlor in Kingdom City, but she has a secret… She's not so terribly wicked. A dominatrix by necessity, rather than calling, she does her best to capitalize on her naughty reputation. After the smear campaign waged by her stepdaughter Cynthia, there aren't many other employment options.Frank, the Captain of the Queen's Guard, has been sent to protect Edna from the stalker threatening her life. Posing as a client, this dominant male soon realizes he's in for more trouble than he bargained for.Because Edna is a born submissive. And Frank can't resist the urge to show her what she's been missing while on the Mistress side of the fence.



Intentions of the Earl (Scandalous Sisters, Book 1), by Rose Gordon
save $3.99/FREE

Book Description:
Will he secure his future by ruining hers, or will she ruin his plans by securing him? A new twist on the old fortune hunter plot puts an impoverished earl in a position to gain his fortune only by ruining an innocent's reputation without offering marriage. The innocent he's selected, however, has no plans to settle for anything less than marriage and will go to almost any length to secure him.

With no other means for an income, the impoverished Andrew Black, Earl of Townson, makes an agreement that will put a definite end to his eight year poverty streak. But, in order to gain his fortune he must do only one simple thing: ruin an innocent young lady’s reputation enough to make her flee to America.

Brooke Banks isn’t interested in marriage, or so she thinks. She came to London to have a good time, and that’s exactly what she’s doing. Widely known for her tendency to flout the rules, she suspects nothing when a handsome stranger appears on her doorstep.

Thirteen days, a handful of kisses and one scandalous situation later, Andrew and Brooke will have to choose to stick to their original plans, or decide if a life together is worth the risk.

***This is a full-length novel, approx. 100,000 words.



Bloody Little Secrets (a YA vampire novel), by Karly Kirkpatrick
save $11.00/FREE

Book Description:
Fans of Twilight, The Vampire Diaries, and Buffy, The Vampire Slayer will appreciate this fresh and funny take on YA vampire fiction.

Some secrets don't stay buried. Neither did Vicky.

17-year-old Vicky Hernandez has a big problem. She's dead. Or not quite. After discovering she's been turned into a vampire, she tries to settle into a quiet suburb of Chicago and return to a normal life. If only she could stop wanting to bite her boyfriend. Not to mention she is dying to find out who turned her, and why. She doesn't have to wait long before they come to her.

Bloody Little Secrets is a full novel at 55,000 words.

Author Info:
Karly Kirkpatrick loves to read and write YA. She published her first YA novel, Into the Shadows in 2010 and lives in Elgin, Illinois. For more information about Karly, visit www.karlykirkpatrick.com.



Branded (Fall of Angels), by Keary Taylor
save $13.99/FREE

Book Description:

Jessica’s had the nightmares for as long as she can remember. Nightmares of being judged for people who have died, of being branded by the angels. Her friends and family think she’s a crazy because of it all. Yet she carries the mark of the condemned, seared into the back of her neck, and hides it and herself away from the world.

But when two men she can’t ignore enter her life everything changes, including the nightmares. The two of them couldn’t be more different. She will do anything to be with one of them. Even tell him the truth about angels, why she never sleeps, and the scar on the back of her neck. But one of the two has set events into motion what will pull her toward her own judgment and turn her into the object of her greatest fear.

Featured in THE WALL STREET JOURNAL as a "Self-Published Big Seller."



Beautiful Demons (Peachville High Demons #1), Sarra Cannon
save $.99/FREE

Book Description:
Harper Madison isn't like other girls. She has extraordinary powers, but her inability to control them has gotten her kicked from so many foster homes she's lost count. Shadowford Home for Girls is her last chance, and she hopes Peachville High will be the fresh start she needs.

But when evidence ties her to the gruesome murder of a Demons cheerleader, Harper discovers this small town has a big secret.

Beautiful Demons is a fast-paced YA novel with magic, mystery, and a touch of romance. This series will appeal to fans of Pretty Little Liars, Hex Hall, and The Vampire Diaries.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Sarra Cannon grew up in a small town in Georgia where she learned that being popular always comes at a price. Now, she lives in North Carolina with her amazing husband and her teeny tiny Pomeranian, Snickerdoodle. Books and music are her greatest passions. She has never been a cheerleader, but it's possible she knows a few things about casting spells.



Indie Chicks: 25 Women 25 Personal Stories, by Lizzy Ford, Donna Fasano, Mel Comley, Suzanne Tyrpak, Linda Welch, Sarah Woodbury, Melissa Foster, Sibel Hodge, Carol Davis Luce, Cheryl, Shireman
save $5.22/FREE

Book Description: Cover of the Indie Chicks 25 women 25 personal stories book

This exciting anthology contains stories from twenty-five women from different parts of the world. Their ages differ, as do their backgrounds and locations, but one thing they all have in common is a spirit of independence and a determination to not only succeed, but prevail. Whether their struggles are to maintain balance between motherhood and career, escape from an abusive relationship, or to step out in faith and pursue a dream, all of these women have forged their own path.

As women, one of our most powerful "gifts" is the ability to encourage one another. This book is an effort to encourage women across the world. These twenty-five women share stories that will make you laugh, inspire you, and maybe even make you cry. Their hope is that these stories will inspire YOUR independent spirit and allow you to live the life you were meant to live.

In addition, each woman has included a “sneak peek” into one of her own novels.

All proceeds from this book will go a charitable organization that fights breast cancer - a disease all too close to home for many of us. Our prayers and best wishes are with those who are struggling with this terrible and devastating disease. Buy a book for yourself and “gift” one to the important women in your life. Together, we can make a difference. Thank you for your support.

All book cover pictures and descriptions courtesy of Amazon.com
Expenses
Expenses (Photo credit: Phillie Casablanca)
I can guarantee you that you will find at least a few of these techniques useful in your life to save some of that precious money you work so hard for. I suggest you choose a few of them that seem most do-able for you and put them into action for at least 2 months.

You should notice some pretty significant change, then come back and try a few more. Or...jump right in and try 'em all.

Ready?

If you're serious about saving money you have to become organized...organized...organized. I've had problems most of my life trying to get my money right. I always failed miserably in the end. Sometimes I ended up worse than before I started. I have issues keeping things organized but once I realized that organization was my anchor I learned what I needed to do to cut that anchors' rope and accomplish my goal at hand.

Some of you are already there but some of you suffer from organization disorder, I made that up. It's true enough though. I freeze up when things are unorganized and I don't do anything. That doesn't get me anywhere.

Organization, It's much easier than you think. Just do small amounts at a time. There are places all over the Internet that you can get tips and help for free. I've been a FlyBaby for years and jumped on and off the bandwagon but I'm back on again and I can tell you that The FlyLady has changed my life. I couldn't get anything accomplished because my mind was too scattered because my stuff was too scattered. If you're interested, stop by and read the getting started page. Here is the link. By the way, none of the links on this site are affiliate, they are all offered out of genuine help.

The wonderful thing is you don't necessarily have to be organized in every area of your life to get your Attitude Money. Just start with getting your finances in order. The basics are all that are needed at this point. Write down every single expense that you pay monthly, quarterly, semi-annually and annually then write down your monthly income. Most of us will see the same thing...a surplus but "for the life of us we don't know where this surplus is?" This is where we're ultimately going to find your Attitude Money. If you don't have a surplus there are ideas near the bottom of this article that may help you change that.

Be diligent-you only have to do this once then tweak accordingly. Create accounts for each expense and each income. Give yourself a wiggle account. Every household needs some wiggle room. You never know when that electric bill is going to shoot up ten bucks or baby needs some new shoes. Over estimate your expenses or at least round them up and under-estimate your income if it's not the same every week. Its real important to make your budget work for you or despite your best efforts you won't be able to stick with it. Consider allowances for each member of the family.

Some accounts to remember are:
  • Attitude Money account
  • short-term savings,
  • Christmas/Holiday/Birthday account
  • taxes
  • house/rent
  • utilities
  • food
  • school/educational expenses
  • childcare
  • allowances
  • clothing
  • donations/tithe
  • household (cleaning supplies, plant food, mops and brooms...)
  • transportation (gas, bus, taxi...)
  • recreation
  • toiletries (shampoo, make-up, tooth paste)
  • insurance
  • auto expenses (oil changes, tires, batteries...)
  • car payments
  • health/medicines
  • wiggle room account
  • credit card payments
  • and don't forget the pets
Keep in mind that the idea is for these accounts to build up month after month so that you have the money to pull from the correct account when you need to get Tigers claws trimmed or that birthday present for your friend that you forgot about. If you have an expense come up suddenly and don't have all the money in that particular account for it, take it from the wiggle account. That's what this account is for.

Use your gross pay and show anything that is automatically deducted from your check like insurance, child care, union does, taxes, 401k's, childcare/flexible spending accounts etc. on your budget.

Figure what you're paying for everything annually. You're going to have some extreme estimating to do but it will work out. Finally divide each expense by 12 and this is what you want to set aside for each account each month. Remember to round-up on your expenses and don't forget that wiggle account, it's very important especially in the beginning.

Anything that's left over is for your Attitude Money account.

You can find many free budget sheets to download from the Internet. Find one that works for you. Print it out and take a copy of it. Use pencil to fill it in with all the information you've gathered and you're off.

Set?

Once you're organized give yourself a reason. People need a reason to do things. You have to make sense of why you want to save, what you want to save for...or who you want to save for. Start simple especially if you're going to do a 2 month trial or something short-term. You want to see results as fast as possible because this is Attitude money we're talking about and we all need a little attitude, right?

Make a plan. Draft it out and bring the entire household in on it. Make it fun and challenging, we don't do boring and tedious here. If the kids know that the family is on a mission to save a few bucks and they know why, they will be some of your greatest supporters and you will have an understandable reason to give them for not buying that toy they were asking for at the store. Kids take things literally so be prepared to do some explaining if you want to wander from the budget.

If you were to ask me what short-term goal to start with, I would say to save enough to pay your entire monthly expenses. Have this money sitting in your account at the beginning of the month. This way you will have this amount in the bank and can pay all of your bills at the beginning of the month or as they come in without living paycheck to paycheck. Just keep putting your paycheck in the bank every payday and you will be ready to go next month too. This is freeing in itself but this is still not your Attitude Money, so onward we go.

Attitude Money

Start a new account at a different institution and have money automatically transferred to it. Don't get a debit card or a checkbook with it. You want to make it a drag and a very conscious decision to remove money from this account. So, also don't hook it up to PayPal or sign up for online access. Use good old paper statements and watch your money grow every month.

Remember this new account is your attitude account where you will be keeping your Attitude Money. This account will take a weight off your shoulders, help to keep your relationships in peak condition and provide comfort and security for you and your family. Does that sound too extreme? Give it a try for a few months and see for yourself, I think you will be very happy with the outcome. This is why I call it Attitude Money and not long-term savings. Go ahead and say the two. I like the sound and the feeling that comes with saying Attitude Money.

This is money that you're not gonna touch unless you're getting ready to sleep in a cardboard box in your alley. Keep your short-term savings that you've set up goals for in your regular bank.

Are you in the negative before you even began you budget? Try a few of these out.

Plan your meals out for the week. You don't have to be an extreme couponer but if you're not using them you are literally throwing money away. Get the flyers of your local stores delivered to your email or go to their websites. Make your menu according to what's on sale that week if possible and match up coupons to use with those sale items. You may have heard of her, but Couponmom is an awesome tool if you're thinking about using coupons. She should definitely be your first stop. She has videos showing you step by step what to do, an e-book (she has one for free and sells one now too. I read the free one and that was really helpful). She also keeps an up to date database of coupons per store, states and date. She includes drugstores where every week you can get free stuff by matching up coupons with sale items. I do this even if I don't want or need something and donate it to charity. It's fun too! If you have kids they will love being a part of this.

OK, I'm not gonna tell you to carpool because I think it's a drag having to rely on other people for some of the most important trips you make. But do try to designate certain days to get things done in one or two trips per week. The only way you can accomplish this is by following the first advice...getting organized.

Drink milk, water and coffee or tea if you're a coffee or tea person. Skip pops and juices. They're unnecessary and expensive plus you inevitably run out and have to run to the store to get more. If you or your kids just can't do that pick up some lemonade or cool-aid and make your own drinks and popsicle's.

If you're a smoker invest in a cigarette machine roller and save tons of money by buying tubes and tobacco and roll your own or try an electronic cigarette.

Invest in a Wii or some other type of gaming unit that you can watch Netflix on and subscribe to Netflix for that first month free then see how much you're watching cable or satellite and get rid of that dreadful never-ending bill. With the switch over to digital TV you get lots of extra channels in HD and never-ending cartoons on Netflix plus movies and TV shows that are updated regularly. If you just can't separate yourself from that DVR, and I can feel that, buy one and use it all you want but I think you will find that between Netflix, Hulu and the local TV stations' websites that you already have built-in DVR's.

Try and hold off on that DVR purchase, or make it one of your savings goals and decide when you have the money saved up if you still really want it. Another reason I suggested the Wii is for family entertainment. I got my Wii on eBay because I try not to pay in full for anything...really. I didn't know a whole lot about them. I knew I wanted to watch Netflix through it but was thrilled when I got it that there are seemingly endless games and applications that are both entertaining and physically interactive that can be added through the years.

There are so many other ways to save an extra dime and with the Internet a simple search will lead you in the right direction. You can always check back here where I will be "SharingItForward" with many helpful tips.

I'm not a "trained" financial expert and that means take this article for what it's worth. Some experts may disagree with some of my ideas and they may even be right. But this works for me and I own my own house and cars and have no credit card debt and love my Attitude money and the freedom from money woes. I'm not bragging...just saying-sometimes those of us that have been there have better do-able advice than the experts (That goes for everything), and I have been there....several times.

Please post you're accomplishments and share any tips you have.

Here is a basic budget worksheet that you can fill out online for free and tweak to meet your needs.

Cheryl Rogers

Monday, April 16, 2012

What's up with WordPress?

After 2 days of working on a very information rich blog and including several links to outside free sources, not affiliate links mind you, (I specifically said that these weren't affiliate links for the readers) they closed down my blog. Now in it's place is an ugly form page saying that this blog has been removed for violating TOS for affiliate links!  I had just finished my last edit because I found some typos.
Not that I have many followers yet but...how embarrassing is that?
Has this happened to anyone else? Maybe I shouldn't have made that last edit?
I immediately filed out the complaint form offered and have yet to hear back from anyone.I would like to have my blogs back. This is the last post I will post without making a back up. It's worse having many personal entries with pictures that I have no access to now.
I hope that someone can help me out with this. Is this normal? Will I ever have access to my posts again?