Merry Christmas! . . God began with a breath..

A greeting shared from Tyndale House Publishers. May the Christ of the manger who is Lord of all be with you this Christmas season.

Remembering Christmas past. . .

Things I remember about Christmas past......

• The tinkling of a child's music box as the tiny ballerina twirls in pink splendor.
• The joy of seeing my children in new pajamas I had made for them.
• The thrill on their face as they sing at the top of their voice during the church Christmas program.
• The bedraggled child-shepherd walking down the aisle toward the babe in the manger as only a little one can do when robbed in a too big, plaid bathrobe with a towel wrapped around his head.
• The high school student performing in "Who Stole Baby Jesus" and being so proud.
• The cold of caroling at the grandparents after a three hour drive to get to their house.
• The joy of small children opening mysterious packages wrapped with love and tenderness.
• The weariness of  being a parent and still wrapping, in the middle of the night, those secretive treasures for her beloved children to receive on Christmas morning.
• The twinkle in a grandfather's eyes as he watches his grandchildren unwrap a gift.
• The small gift from a Sunday School teacher.
• Singing in the choir as a high schooler and being so thrilled with the music.
• Opening hymnals to the few pages of Christmas carols each year and singing the beloved favorites.
• Hearing silly songs on the radio.
• Hearing beautiful renditions of beloved, traditional Christmas carols.
• Receiving a bike for Christmas as a child.
• Looking at photographs, black and white of course, of Christmas as a child.
• Stumbling into the train at the base of my parent's Christmas tree when I crept into the living room  under cover of darkness on Christmas Eve to try to peek.
• Maturing and realizing that all the wrapping and all the glitz and all the sparkle is nothing compared to the joy that was brought to the World by the birth of this wee babe in a manage who is Christ the Lord and who came to Save us from our sins.

RESTORING CHRISTMAS By Cynthia Ruchti

About the book: Alexis Blake has one chance to land her own show on the Home Project Network and nothing, not an uncooperative client, a job site without indoor plumbing, or a challenging videographer, is going to stand in her way. Elsie, at seventy-plus, is far from the ideal client, but she knows exactly what she wants her fieldstone house to look like, and no designer can tell her otherwise. Gabe Langley, the man with the camera, is caught in the middle and it is his wisdom and warmth that just may be the bridge that will bring these two women together. Can they restore more than just a house and bring about special, almost lost forever Christmas memories?

My thoughts: This is a lovely story about two young professionals who embark on a life-changing endeavor destined to change each of their professional lives for either good or bad. She so badly wants to become a television celebrity designer and he to become known as a quality professional videographer. Together they  restore and record an old home to previous glory and bedeck it for Christmas.

Along the way they engage with the reluctant owner, Elsie, who agrees to the changes Alexis desires to make and then throws resounding "No's" in the way. And as the story progresses the lively characters find that restoration is not only for old homes and old lives but young lives can all be restored.

This is truly a lovely read and is a short novella just right for the holidays.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Worthy Inspired book review program to facilitate this review of my own opinions which are given without compensation.

Books perfect for gift giving from National Geographic Kids Books [Review & 2-Book Giveaway]

Let's face it, kids reach for and react to the longed for and cherished toy more than they do a book. Well, after all, a book is a flat, inanimate object that doesn't make sounds, move, interact, etc. Well, that is unless..... you do of course, consider the imagination that soars with the turn of a page.

Books truly make the best gifts -- a thoughtfully selected book will hold a child's interest long after the new toys have been tossed aside.   National Geographic Kids Books is featuring several new titles that are perfect for gift giving and I have already reviewed several here on Chat With Vera.  These books have big, bold, and beautiful hardcovers; cater to book enthusiasts and reluctant readers alike; and are fun, inspiring AND educational (but don't tell kids that last part!).

Ultimate Oceanpedia: The Most Complete Ocean Reference Ever (National Geographic Kids) by Christina Wilsdon (ages 7-10, $24.99) 

About the book: Perfect for the ocean-obsessed, this book is the most complete ocean reference ever. Ultimate Oceanpedia is overflowing with amazing facts, photos, art and diagrams that take the reader on a journey through the ocean. Whales, dolphins, porpoises, turtles, sharks, fish, crustaceans, sponges -- from the weird to the wonderful -- they are all featured in breathtaking photographs with easy to read captions. Wild weather, underwater exploration and tips and pointers on how to help keep our oceans thriving round out this thick, keepsake volume.

My thoughts: This book is a fabulous treasure trove of information about the World's oceans and how they interact and influence all life on the planet. Most everyone knows the planet is comprised primarily of water, but until you look at the pictures and further investigate the oceans themselves you have no clue as to the immensity of these wonderous  bodies of water.

For starters, I was awed by two pictures of the oceans. One showed the hot spots of the oceans and the article explained how the warmth of the hot spots influenced northern areas as well. The degree of heat indicated in the image was intriguing. The other picture showed the plates and how they extended beyond the land masses and how they once were all connected. Amazing!

 As with other National Geographic publications, the pictures are awe inspiring and cover such a variety of life in and on the oceans. It seems as though the author has thought of so much to help the young reader - A table of contests grouped into interesting categories such as Oceans, Ocean Life, Ocean in Motion, Wild Weathr, Underwater Exploration. And then she has included a superb Glossary and Index.

The "Bet You Didn't Know" sidebars are fun and interesting. Just another gem.

I recommend this book for every school library, public library, and home school library. Not only is it a fun and interesting book to read or peruse, it is a tremendous reference source.

Famous Fails!: Mighty Mistakes, Mega Mishaps, & How a Mess Can Lead to Success by Crispin Boyer (ages 8-12, $12.99) 

About the book: This fun book of quirky failures and famous flops will keep kids laughing while they learn the importance of messing up in order to get it right.  Science, architecture, technology, entertainment -- there are epic fails and hilarious goof-ups from every important field. Silly side features help to analyze the failures: "Lesson Learned," "It Could be Worse!," "Losing Combinations," and a "Fail Scale" help readers navigate the different kinds and scopes of the mistakes made. Read to learn what went wrong, what went right, and what kids can learn from each failed attempt.

My thoughts: This little soft cover book is fun. It chronicles failures - some not so well know and some epic. It also shows how failure can lead to success. The Table of Contents doesn't give a clue about the individuals (famous) one might wish to seek out, but you can find them in the Index in the back. Example: Thomas Edison and Einstein.

I love this quote: "Only the one who does not question is safe from making a mistake." Albert Einstein

A fun book to tuck away some interesting facts into your head and to while away a few hours.

GIVEAWAY ~~~~ FLASH 

1 Winner will receive 1 copy of each book in this review.

Begins December 7

ENDS December 15 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book to facilitate a review of my own opinions which are given without compensation. Giveaway copies are provide by the publicist or publisher directly to the winner.

The Snow Queen: A Tale in Seven Stories by Hans Christian Andersen, Illustrated by Sanna Annukka

ISBN:9780399578502
Hardcover $16.00 

My thoughts:  I was excited at the prospect of this new edition of Hans Christian Andersen's story, The Snow Queen. It has been years since I've read fairy tales and I had not ever read The Snow Queen. The  unusual illustrations lend a modern look to the old story. And the cloth bound, hard cover book is reminiscent of books from the past.

Though the story is short and should have been a quick read, I found I simply could not get that interested in it. It begins with a sinister mirror that is like a devil. It shatters and the slivers fall to the Earth impaling people with the evil of the mirror causing them to be like it.

This should not have surprised me because fairy tales of long ago have usually had a grimness to them and a bountiful amount of evil. Usually, evil is overcome by the good others do. So one probably should expect a dark side to exist in fairy tales.

The illustrations are Scandinavian and modern with a weirdness that is indicative of the story itself - as well it should be. Would the story be better illustrated with more realistic "people" roaming the cold countryside? That would be interesting to see but Sanna Annukka chose this style and it does suit. The cover is beautiful in the deep aqua-blue with silver accents.


About the book: Gorgeously packaged with intricate illustrations from Finnish illustrator, Sanna Annukka, this new edition of Hans Christian Andersen's well-loved fairy tale, The Snow Queen, is the perfect holiday gift for adults and children alike.

Hans Christian Andersen's magical tale of friendship and adventure is retold through the beautiful and intricate illustrations of Finnish illustrator Sanna Annukka. Cloth-bound in deep blue, with silver foil embellishments, The Snow Queen is elevated from a children's book to a unique work of art. It is an ideal gift for people of all ages.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the Blogging for Books reviewer's program to facilitate a review of my honest opinions which are freely given.

A Clhristmas greeting - "Let There Be Light"

Vera's Reviews & Gift Suggestions

Click image to find my review of item:

   

Christmas gifts from Sugar and Spice Gifts and Treats Spa provide comfort and sparkle [Review & Giveaway]

Christmas is just an eye-blink away. A short month filled with activities, color, sounds, joy, anxiety, busyness, cold, music, laughter, good food, sweets, and family. It is a time of gifting and a time of looking at the bank balance to see if there is enough for all those gifts you wish to give to those you care about.

Sugar  and Spice Gifts and Treats has beautifully appointed bath items and here at Christmas time they have pulled out all the stops and created baubles to sparkle and glisten your gifting.

Decide how many and "who" you want to give some little treats to and place an order
for a grand assortment of spa treats for the little ladies and the moms and grandmas on
your list. Then find some cute gift bags, ribbons, and bows and spread the joy!

Looking a little closer, I see a little rubber duckie perched atop a cake of soap and isn't that a sweet little squirrel encased in glycerin gel soap? Bath salts, bath bombs, scrubs....
such fun and pleasantness.

I spy three tree ornament balls with ribbons attached to place on the tree.
Who will find one on the tree, hidden in the boughs, and run to the bath
for a wonderful spa treat?

We "think" and desire chocolate and minty sweets during the holiday season, but we NEED the relaxation of lavendar. Sugar and Spice can meet both of these needs and desires. Get the idea? Also, think of these items as small gifts for co-workers, friends one might wish to give a small treat, etc. There is even a set of shaving items for the man you want to give a gift. And not to forget the kiddies - something cute.

At Sugar and Spice Gifts and Treats, products are handmade, natural and chemical free, come in a wide variety of colours & scents, and custom orders are encouraged!  Find some lovely items by clicking here

The owner of Sugar and spice Gifts and Treats is Canada based and has developed a line of lovely bath products and even a few other items such as laundry needs. She also packages her items beautifully. Bath salts, bath fizzies, and such are in canning jars such as you would put your prize home made jams and jellies. The she decorates these with lovely "jewels" and fabric cutouts on the lids. The effect is charming. Bath Bombs are thoroughly wrapped in a plastic container and then placed in a frou-frou bag with netting and tied with a pretty ribbon. Soaps are wrapped and placed in a lovely bag and have added bling or glitz.

Find & Shop @ Sugar & Spice Gifts & Treats

GIVEAWAY

Prize will be an "owner selected"
assortment of seasonal items to delight
the senses and are lovely to look upon.

Begins November 22

Ends December 11 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA & CANADA only. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Etsy stores or shops online are primarily owned by people who had small home businesses and who made crafty items to sell. I have been quite impressed by the talents that are fueling this cottage industry. I love the entrepreneurial spirit of these Etsy businesses - many of them the dreams of moms, sisters, aunts, friends. We should support their efforts - especially when they merit it by producing something as lovely as these products.

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary products from Sugar & Spice Gifts & Treats to facilitate this review. I was not compensated and opinions are my very own.

The Nutcracker illustrated by Niroot Puttapipat Novelty/Gift Edition from Candlewick Press [Review & Giveaway - US/CANADA]

ISBN13: 9780763681258

My thoughts: Loved by generations of theater goers and dancers alike, The Nutcracker is a beautiful and endearing story of enhantment and holiday excitement. The music of Tchaikovsky takes one on mind blowing journeys into fantasy land.

This edition of The Nutcracker is a stunning black silloutte version told in a few pages. The finale is a beautifully intricate scene that you will look at in awe over the intricies displayed in the lavish scene.

A superb picture book to charm that lover of ballet and of The Nutcracker.

I recommend it for homes and lovers of "The Nutcracker."

About the book: An exquisite gift edition of The Nutcracker captures the spirit of the Christmas ballet in elegant illustrations—and delivers a glorious pop-up finale.

The Nutcracker is one of the world’s most popular ballets, telling the captivating story of Clara and the Nutcracker prince as they journey into a land of fantasy. Inspired by Marius Petipa’s sets for the original production of the ballet, Niroot Puttapipat’s delicate silhouette illustrations dance across pale, watercolor-washed backgrounds in a unique interpretation. Starkly beautiful, this keepsake edition evokes all the magic and anticipation of Christmas Eve as Clara and the prince waltz between worlds—and culminates in a 3-D spread bringing the dreamlike Land of Sweets to life.

GIVEAWAY

Begins November 21

ENDS December 7 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA & CANADA addresses. NO P.O.BOXES

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick Press to facilitate a review. I was not compensated. Giveaway prize is provided by and shipped by Candlewick directly to the winner.

The Christmas Story by Robert Sabuda [Review & Giveaway USA/CANADA]

ISBN-13: 978-1406369557

My thoughts: Exquisite! Stunning! Beautiful! This is a treasure book that makes a memorable gift to a child that caring parents, aunts, and uncles will choose. Parents will love it as will the children. Care will be taken to preserve it for future generations to handle and love with awe.

I highly recommend my readers to gift a copy to some child and family during this holiday season.

Check out the beautiful video below and be sure you have the sound turned on!

Then check out the giveaway which Candlewick Press has so graciously provided so that one of Chat With Vera's readers can also enjoy!





About the book: The Nativity is brought to life by master pop-up artist Robert Sabuda in six gorgeously imagined 3-D scenes, making this a Christmas gift book to treasure. Long ago, in a stable in Bethlehem, a baby was born on a bright and starry night. This child was the Son of God and he would be the saviour of all mankind. The wondrous story of the birth of Jesus - born in a stable, laid in a manger, visited by shepherds and the three wise men - is exquisitely imagined by pop-up artist Robert Sabuda in six scenes. Glinting with touches of gold and pearlescent foil, The Christmas Story is a visual delight and a book for whole family to treasure at Christmas.

GIVEAWAY

Begins November 20

ENDS December 6 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA/CANADA addresses - NO P.O. BOXES

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Candlewick Press to facilitate this review of my honest opinions which are freely given. The winner's giveaway copy is provided by and shipped by Candlewick Press directly to the winner.

A Royal Christmas Wedding by Rachel Hauck

My thoughts: This is a delightfully light, joyous read that brings all the frills and happiness of a Christmas wedding to the plot and in addition it packs it all into a modern day fairy tale.

Another in Rachel Hauck's Royal Wedding series where ordinary American girls meet and marry into the royal line of the Brighton Kingdom, it proves to be enchanting and sugary sweet.

Well, there are moments of bitter sweet threaded through the sugar, but often that makes for a better piece of candy as well as a better story plot.

A bit preposterous in places, but being a modern fairy tale, that is o.k. This is a fun read and I totally enjoyed the lightness it brought into my reading time.

About the book: Avery Truitt aches for true love—the kind she once shared with Prince Colin. Can she dare to hope for happily ever after, or is a fairy-tale ending beyond reach?

College volleyball star Avery Truitt has not seen her former flame, Prince Colin of Brighton Kingdom, since he suddenly pushed her away five years ago. But now, the sadness of losing her father and the joy of her sister Susanna’s pregnancy have brought Avery back to Brighton just in time for Cathedral City’s enchanting Christmas season.

Avery knows she can’t avoid seeing Colin—now the Kingdom’s most eligible bachelor—whether or not her heart is ready to relive the pain. But seeing him again might bring her the closure she needs after all this time.

When Colin finds himself at the center of a centuries-old Brighton tradition, he must decide whether to follow the path laid out before him or follow his heart to the only woman for whom he would ring the Pembroke Chapel Bell.

Can Colin convince Avery to meet him at the chapel on Christmas morning—as tradition dictates—or will Avery run back to her St. Simons home and pursue a coaching career as planned?

In the fourth installment of the Royal Wedding Series, New York Times bestselling novelist, Rachel Hauck, weaves a charming story of holiday romance as two broken hearts seek the love they once knew.

I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review of my own opinions without compensation.

All Natural m.o.d.Perfume at Good Earth Beauty [Review & Giveaway]

$35.00 USA
Good Earth Beauty

Perfume is such a treat in which to indulge. It makes one feel pretty. It makes one feel luxurious. It completes the toilette.

Perfumes have long been used as refreshing splashes, dabs, and sprays to enhance one's personal allure. A simple definition of perfume is " Perfumes are mixtures of essential oils or organic scent compounds and solvents."

Good Earth Beauty has their own line of perfumes created by Mod Perfumery for the folks at Good Earth Beauty and comprised of natural ingredients such as Organic Olive Squalane, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Grapeseed Oil, Natural Orchid Extract, Pure Essential Oils and/or Natural Fragrance Oils.

I tried the Ginger white Tea which has a delightful warm and comforting smell. With top notes of Bergamot, Lemon Peels and Green Daylilies, this fragrance is brought back to its roots with a base of Ginger, Nutmeg and Warm Musk. White floral notes, such as Hyacinth, Freesia and Peony complete the mix. This fragrance is wonderfully unique and gleefully soothes the senses. Mod perfumes are highly concentrated (they contain no diluting agents like alcohol or water)  You only need to use a small amount - it should last throughout the day.  A bottle will most likely last 4- 6 months!

There are a lot of fragrance choices in this line of perfumes at Good Earth Beauty. Gifting perfume at the holiday season has long been a top choice of gift items and usually denotes a high degree of intimacy with the recipient. Perhaps a natural ingredient perfume would be something you would like to gift to someone special in your life or perhaps gift it to yourself because you, alone, know your most desired preferences.

My experience with this product: I am pretty selective in fragrances that I use prefering fragrances such as Trésor from department stores. I found, however, the m.o.d. Perfume White Ginger Tea has a very nice scent that is a gentle presence. I applied one spray to my inner wrist and then rubbed wrists together. And several hours after applying it, I find there is still a hint of fragrance. Nice.

Good Earth Beauty ships free - any amount - to USA addresses. A great option! The Good Earth Beauty is their exclusive line, yet their website has a plethora of products and brands from which you can choose. What a great source for holiday gifting. Check them out - click here.

This is not just "girly" stuff. They have a whole range of products in their gift shop, men's shop, and kid's shop. They also ship internationally! What a great opportunity to help you with your holiday shopping!

GIVEAWAY

Prize: 1 bottle of m.o.d. Perfume of choice

Begins November 13

ENDS December 5 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary product to facilitate my use and review of my opinions. I was not compensated for this review. Giveaway prize is provided and shipped to winner by Good Earth Beauty Exclusives.