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Sanity Savers – Virtual Book Tour

17 Apr

I don’t plan on reading it all right away. This is a book in line with Christian devotionals – sort of a reading a day, little snippets. No, it is not religious – so don’t let that stop you from buying this book. And if you ARE religious, don’t let that stop you either! This is a great little manual to help you get through the various things in like that can provide stress. From a pet’s failing health, to kids going off to college, to scary doctor’s visits. Not solutions to the problems themselves mind you, but ways for you to be able to cope through the insanity of it all.

Here’s what Dr. Atkins has to say about the book:

With so many demands on women I wanted to offer an accessible guide for the many situations we face on a daily basis. Hopefully, women will see themselves in these pages, not feel alone, and get a sense that there are healthy ways to get through the challenges they face.

The scenarios are drawn from real life; mine and the lives of women I have met all over the country. They’ve shared their frustrations and their joys as they come to terms with situations ranging from finding love, dealing with an aging parent, negotiating friendships, questioning faith, or just finding time to read a novel without guilt.

We are all juggling balls. There are lots of them and they sometimes change, and they sometimes need to be put down for a while. When they are put down, it is imperative that we don’t feel as if we have failed because they are now on the ground instead of in the air. We need to ascertain which ones need to be in the air while keeping check on taking care of ourselves.

I believe that women can be the most amazing source of support for one another, by focusing on cooperation, keeping an open heart and a sense of humor, and providing a safe place, without judgment or criticism, where it’s ok to be human (not perfect). That is what Sanity Savers is trying to accomplish.

I have to recommend this book. It’s substantial in content, but formatted in bite size chunks. It deals with something that everyone is going to have to deal with at some point, and gives you tips on getting through it. Let me know what you think!

Overall Review: Positive

Mixtionary

18 Jan

I was sent a book by John Nee, the author, and asked to review it here… Mixtionary by Mia Christou, Scott Lobdell, and John Nee with illustrations by Shawn McManus.

Basically it’s a little coffee table cartoon book of words that should be in today’s lexicon… Their summary:

Never be at a lexical loss again! The English language, updated – newfangled words for the newfangled world. Mixtionary has it covered: fashion, internet, dating, relationships, men, women, kids, mysticism, sex, personality traits, work, commerce, politics, travel… and Mixtionary tells it like it is!

Critics agree: Mixtionary is a destined to be a stumple of modern day life! It’s feeordained! Perfect for your benefriends and menemies alike!

A hilarious new survival guide for the hip and tongue-tied.

As for my reactions to the book… It’s cute. It’s also pretty true. I’m also pretty sure I will not be using some of the terms – a little out there, for humor’s sake. But it’s staying here with me at work, and sitting on my little table with my pictures and stuff – and it’s a conversation starter. It does remind you of the ridiculous in this high tech & sometimes odd world we live in.

Would I buy it for myself? No. Would I buy it as a little gift for someone? Sure! It’s a cute funny little thing.

Overall review: Positive

Gods in Alabama

14 Aug

Eliza recommended this author in one of her posts. After reading Joshilyn Jackson’s blog – the author – for a little while, I thought oh what the heck and bought the book. This was a step for me. I rarely try new authors, but I’m so glad I did.

This book is basically about a woman coming to terms with her past, her family, her boyfriend, and other secrets along the way. It’s a great read. It wasn’t formulaic at all – and caught me by surprise. In fact I stayed up until almost 2am last night – when I had to work today. I hardly ever do that, I need my rest too much for getting through work and the kids. I couldn’t put it down.

I’m looking forward to reading her second novel.

Overall Review: Positive