Looking at the fabulous Lavender-Vanilla and the Almond Cream Hand Creams newly added to Good Earth Beauty Exclusives product line - totally new fragrances [Review & Giveaway]

I was already in love (I should really use all caps here because it is a MAJOR "IN LOVE") with the Good Earth Beauty Exclusives Rose Hand Cream. But they have now launched two more that might surely top the list in preferences for me. They are Lavender Vanilla and Almond Cream. Not too heavy on either scent. Just perfect.

My hands are luxuriating in this smooth, moist, silky cream.

Hey! Did I tell you that I LOVE IT!

Good Earth Beauty Exclusives collection of #natural & #vegan hand creams

NOTE: Almond Cream and Lavender Vanilla are totally new in this line up of hand creams

I have used and shared my love of the Good Earth Beauty Exclusives Hand Cream in the scent of Rose with my Chat With Vera readers. But this delightful feeling hand cream (lotion) comes in an assortment of scents. I can't say enough about how much I enjoy using this hand cream and how smooth my hands feel when I use it. It isn't heavy or sticky feeling.

The Lavender Vanilla Hand Cream (great as a hand/body lotion) is simply wonderful. I love its gentle fragrance which will blend so nicely with other fragrances.

The Almond Cream reminds me of an extremely high priced almond lotion I used a few years back. This is not nearly as pricey and it is all natural and vegan as well.

The mini Almond Cream is just
right for trying the product.

And as with any purchase on Good Earth Beauty's web-store, until May 14 you can use the Discount Code of Mom10 for 10% off your purchase. And there is FREE SHIPPING for all USA addressed orders.

So I am highly recommending you acquire a bottle of this Lavender-Vanilla Hand Cream and a Lavender-Mint Candle*. Then take a good relaxing, soaking bath with your candle emitting its fantastically wonderful aromatherapy. After the bath and drying off, slather this fabulous Lavender-Vanilla lotion on your legs and arms.

You should feel so relaxed and your skin will definitely feel like you've been wrapped in silk.

*What about a Soy Candle to refresh the senses?

These soy candles are made with soy wax and cotton wicks and wonderful essential oils. The mint is definitely strong but it is not overpowering. Now what might one experience when you have lite this candle and your room is wafting the fragrance and uplifting your sense of well-being?

For a bit of aromatherapy using this lovely candle you might experience: Lavender is known for its calming and soothing effect. It is said that the scent of lavender can decrease the heart rate and help you relax. Peppermint has the ability to sooth, calm, and aid in the management of mental fatigue. It is also considered effective in the control of nausea from chemo treatments, post surgical, a well as general illness with nausea. (Information from varied internet sources.)

What Vera Recommends..... for Mother's Day... (What are the kiddies giving Mom for Mother's Day?)

I would suggest that you order a full size bottle of one of these fabulous hand creams and a Soy Candle. Mom can take a relaxing aromatherapy bath basking in the lovely fragrance. I recommend the Lavender Mint candle. Then after her bath she can slather the Lavender Vanilla lotion all over her legs, hands, and arms. What joy! Don't forget the Discount Code Mom10 (until May 14) for a 10% discount & shipping is free in USA.

GIVEAWAY

5-Mini Lotions, Varied Scents

Begins April 30

Ends May 30 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary products to use and to facilitate a review. Opinions expressed are my own and product information is taken from the Good Earth Beauty web-store. Opinions and posts are freely given.

A Vegan Challenge complete with cookbook and vegan beauty products: VEGAN CHALLENGE by Lisa Montgomery

Soft Cover - $17.99 US/$22.00 CAN
Buy it on Amazon
ISBN: 9781578267729

Talk to a meat 'n potatoes guy about "vegan" and you'll likely get a revolt! Talk to a dyed-in-the-wool Southern cook and you're likely to get a "Really?" exclamation and that "look" that only Southern gals can give. But "vegan" is real, is widely adhered to, and is a necessary diet choice for many. So let's define "vegan."

• noun: vegan; plural noun: vegans - a person who does not eat or use animal products. "I'm a strict vegan"
• adjective: vegan - using or containing no animal products. "a vegan diet"

But just what does that really mean? It means no meat or animal products in one's food sources. So no cooking with butter. No meat dishes. All vegetable and/or fruit prepared in any way, shape, or form. Raw, cooked, chopped, sliced, diced, stewed, fried. Just NO MEAT.

But it goes way beyond that..... it means you don't rub it on your skin. It means you don't lather up in the bath with soaps made of animal fats. It means you watch your cosmetics. Hmmmmm..... that means you have to be a real watch-guard on the products you use. So, today we're thinking "vegan" here on Chat With Vera......

Vegan Challenge: The 30-Day Program for Eating Healthier and Improving Your Diet with Vegan Foods by Lisa Montgomery

My thoughts:  The book begins with the author's story of how she developed food allergies - gluten, peanuts, dairy. This was 30 years ago. She was faced with continuing ill health or the reality of an option to change her diet and eliminating the foods she was allergic to or she could take a bunch of drugs and keep eating the way she was. She chose to seek a higher ground and change her life - specifically what she ate.

As I look through this beautifully done book and read her intro-story, I thought how glad I am that she found relief and direction through a means different from the medical system. But I also thought, upon looking at some of the recipes, that newbies to the Vegan scene might need to tweak the recipes since some of the products would seem foreign to them and might even be difficult to find in one's average grocery store.

That being said, there is a tremendous amount of information and beautiful recipes pictured and described to try to dip one's feet (or perhaps, fork) into the Vegan pool.

I have a daughter and granddaughter who must follow gluten free diets and they watch everything. They are in consultation with a specialist in that field of allergies and their changes have borne positive fruit. Perhaps taking the 30-Day Vegan Challenge you can "Discover a Happier, Healthier You!"

About the book:  Take the 30-Day Vegan Challenge and Discover a Happier, Healthier You! The secret to building successful healthy habits is commitment and consistency. That’s what makes Vegan Challenge a fun and easy way to adopt a healthy vegan lifestyle—all in just 30 days!

About the author: Lisa Montgomery is not only an author but a holistic health care practitioner, assoc. raw chef, gardener, as well as, a motivational and inspirational speaker.

Lisa's first degree is in business. She got certified as an assoc. raw chef instructor at the Living Light Culinary Institute of Raw Foods in Ft. Bragg, Calif and got certified as a Holistic Health Care Practitioner in New York, NY.

Lisa became passionate about health and wellness after facing health challenges 16 years ago caused by food allergies and candida. The changes she made led her to transform her life...it started with changing the diet but the growth emotionally and spiritually have been phenomenal. She knows how much changing her lifestyle has benefited her life positively and prays the same for you.

Lisa's first book "Raw Inspiration, Living Dynamically With Raw Foods" was released in 2009 by Martin Pearl Publishing. "Raw Garden", "Liquid Raw" and "Raw Potluck" are released in 2011 by Hatherleigh, Division of Random House. Be sure to go to Lisa's website www.livingdynamically.com and/or face book page to keep current 

More to the Challenge

COSMETICS - BATH - CANDLES: You can count on Good Earth Beauty lip balms, soaps, perfumes, and many of their other products to be Vegan and natural.

Natural, vegan soaps 

On the Good Earth Beauty web-store there are a variety of vendors of vegan and natural body washing products. Today we're looking at the Good Earth  Beauty Exclusives line and I have the Argan Soap. I have also used the Pumpkin Spice and Lavender soaps and they are just absolutely fabulous. It is all natural and Vegan!

Did you know they also have a fabulous Vegan soap "Caffeine With Peppermint & Spearmint Oils." This is an all natural moisturizing caffeine soap with peppermint and spearmint oils 4.5 oz bar & Made by Good Earth Beauty Exclusives, Check out the ingredients.... Ingredients: saponified organic oils of olive, coconut, palm and shea butter, coffee, peppermint and spearmint essential oil, coffee grinds. Click Here for GEB Soaps

Lavender Mint Soy Candle 

This lovely, fragrant candle is made with soy wax and cotton wicks and wonderful essential oils. The mint is definitely strong but when lit it is definitely not overpowering. Now what might one experience when you have lit this candle and your room is wafting the fragrance and uplifting sense of well-being?

For a bit of aromatherapy using this lovely candle you might experience..... Lavender is known for its calming and soothing effect. It is said that the scent of lavender can decrease the heart rate and help you relax. Peppermint has the ability to sooth, calm, and aid in the management of mental fatigue. It is also considered effective in the control of nausea from chemo treatments, post surgical, as well as general illness with nausea. (Information from varied internet sources.)

So I am highly recommending you acquire one of the Lavender-Mint Candles. Then take a good relaxing, soaking bath with your candle emitting its fantastically wonderful aromatherapy and lather up with a wonderful Good Earth Beauty Exclusives natural and vegan soap.

About the candles: Our all natural, soy based, slow burning candle will help you relax and enjoy the moment.  Soy based with natural fragrance and essential oils. Choose from a variety of scents.  Glass jar - 4 Ounces. Free of:  parabens, pesticides, petroleum, propylene glycol, phthalates, sulfates, artificial colors. Made in small batches in the USA by Good Earth Beauty CLICK HERE for GEB Candles

The Prize
(Fragrance of candle & soap choice of GEB)

GIVEAWAY ~ $37 Value

Book: "Vegan Challenge"

GOOD EARTH BEAUTY Soy Candle & Bar Soap

Begins April 26

Ends May 25 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA

No P.O. Boxes & Phone Number required for winner.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of the book and of the products to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own, alone, and are freely given. Winner's prize will be provided and shipped directly to the winner by publicist and/or author and Good Earth Beauty.

Wild Bios: William Sheepspeare board book biography from Silver Dolphin Books [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

ISBN: 978-1684126194
Ages 0-2; Board Book $7.99

My thoughts:  This is my 2nd review of a "Wild Bios" kids board books. This one is sort of a "spoof" about William Shakespeare and it is riddled with pun after pun for a hilarious read. Granted, the little kiddies won't grasp the puns, but Mom and Dad will and that makes for an enjoyable story time for the little ones. After all, when everyone is having fun it is a grand time altogether.

As the title indicates "Sheepspeare (i.e. Shakespeare) is a woolly sheep or actually a ram. And he is one of Lord Chamberlamb's (i.e. Lord Chamberland's) Men who act and build the theater. The rams play the part of the ewes (i.e. men play the roles of the women) in the plays. And so the puns go on and on and on throughout the book.

The illustrations are lots of fun with  details and colors that grab one's attention adding to the fun story. But don't forget, this is about a real person and especially that it is about a really famous person - William Shakespeare. While young children rarely comprehend the history of historical entities and the role they play in shaping our world, it is always good to lay the ground work or plant seeds of information that sprout into fruition and further knowledge and study later in their developing years. Perhaps families can put on their own versions of the Real Shakespeare's works and tweak them a bit as has been done in "Wild Bios: William Sheepspeare."

About the book: As the latest title in a new series of biographies featuring well-known historical figures with a surprising twist that makes them accessible and engaging for even the youngest readers. Plus, funny puns throughout make them fun for parents to read aloud!

William Sheepspeare’s plays were shear genius! Meet one of history’s greatest figures in this adorable board book with an animal twist! Dive into the life of the eloquent Baa-rd of Avon and the plays that shaped our language today. William Sheepspeare’s human themes have resonated with every generation. With hilarious puns and colorful illustrations, this book brings his legacy to life for babies and parents alike!

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 25

Ends May 23 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Beloved author Margaret Wise Brown titles released in a new classics line by Silver dolphin Books [Review & Giveaway]

The 109th anniversary of Brown’s birthday is on May 23, 2019 and to celebrate we're reviewing three new Margaret Wise Brown titles from Silver Dolphin Books, the first in a new line of MWB books: The Diggers, Sleep Tight Sleepy Bears, and Count to 10 with a Mouse.

Story about "found" books: In 1990, author Amy Gary discovered a trunk of unpublished manuscripts and songs in the attic of Margaret Wise Brown’s sister’s barn. These manuscripts provided the source material for many of the titles in a new line of classics by the beloved author. Silver Dolphin Books—publisher of high-quality, activity-based books for children ages 2 to 12— will launch fifteen new Margaret Wise Brown titles in Spring and Summer 2019, with two more publishing in the fall.

Count to 10 With a Mouse

ISBN: 9781684127412
Hardcover $12.99
Ages 3-5; 32 pages

My thoughts: This is a sweet counting picture book and a bit different from regular run-of-the-mill presentations. There is plenty of repetition and yet new ideas and imagery are involved in the telling of Mouse counting to 10. The illustrations are particularly charming and sweet in soft shades of various colors.

Essentially, mouse sees (or has eaten) a hole in a book and he ventures through the hole and thus the pages as he counts. This goes on until he is at the end and then..... well what do you think? He turns around runs back again. I just love this charming book.

About the book: Illustrated by Kirsten Richards, this little mouse story is a beautiful children's picture book with gentle illustrations, and a perfect way to get your children reading (and counting) with a lovable, engaging storyline. Ideal for beginning readers, this book is sure to become a family treasure.

Baby Caleb can't read!
Baby Caleb can't count!
Baby Caleb likes his books!!!

The Diggers 

ISBN: 9781684127429
Hardcover $12.99
Ages 3-5; 32 pages

My thoughts: Having raised five children of my own, two of which were boys that loved to dig, I can thoroughly appreciate this diverse book about all sorts of diggers. Wee little creatures and mid-size critters dig, boys and men that dig, shovels and machines that are used for digging.  Lots of diggers. It is an opportunity for the child to learn how extensive digging really is in our world.

The illustrations are excellent and sure to garner lots of interest and present "talking points" for the parent of the inquisitive child. Love this book!

About the book: Dig, dig, dig! Join the animals and machines as they dig an incredible journey of discovery underground in an imaginative story and amazing adventure brought to life by French illustrator Antoine Corbineau, using a patchwork of texture and color in his vibrant illustrations to depict the fun and energetic world of the diggers.

Sleep Tight, Sleepy Bears 

ISBN: 9781684127603
Hardcover $12.99
Ages 3-5; 32 pages

My thoughts:  Who doesn't love a sweet picture book about bears - any size, any action, any color? This simple story is papa bear and baby bear both are sleepy and are going through their nightly routine of bedtime.  Papa bear slows the day and action down with soothing words and actions.

A sweet story and a very good bedtime, go to sleep story.

About the book: Follow the story of the sleepy bears in  in this magical tale beautifully illustrated by Julie Clay. It's a perfect bedtime story for your little one, and will enchant children and parents alike.

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 23

Ends May 20 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses only.

(Canadian addresses: No P.O. Boxes & will need phone number of winner.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway
More about the Author: Margaret Wise Brown wrote hundreds of books and stories during her life, but she is best known for Goodnight Moon and Runaway Bunny. Even though she died 45 years ago, her books still sell very well. Margaret loved animals. Most of her books have animals as characters in the story. She tried to write the way children wanted to hear a story, which often isn't the same way an adult would tell a story. She also taught illustrators to draw the way saw things. Margaret died after surgery for a appendix while in France. She had many friends who still miss her. They say she was a creative genius who made a room come to life with her excitement. Margaret saw herself as something else: a writer of songs and nonsense.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own, alone, and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publicist or publisher.

The Golden Bride (Daughters of the Mayflower #8) by Kimberley Woodhouse [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN13: 9781683228912

My thoughts:  The author takes readers into the lives of characters from the mid-1800s and on the western frontier of America during the Gold Rush that exploded in San Francisco and environs creating a ripe environment for meanness, crime, immorality to run rampart.

The history of San Francisco is well developed in this novel although the author takes license to mold it a bit herself. The fires. The crime. The immorality. The stench.

And yet all is not lost as people of good conscience do succeed in overcoming obstacles and difficulties. As the book begins, Olivia is on the westward trail with her husband of mere weeks headed toward his dream of mining for gold. He dies in a gunshot accident leaving an ill-prepared Olivia to continue her journey to San Francisco in search of her older brother, Daniel.

She arrives and discovers that it is not a place for a lady to be on her own and is much relieved to find her brother. From this point on, the story progresses with twists and turns that delve into the covert operations of the criminal element to control the growth and activities of the city.

Much lawlessness exists and there is no law enforcement as there is no statehood, no governor, no police, no fire department.

As the story unfolds Olivia, her brother Daniel, and his best friend Joseph are involved in dangers and yet their faith keeps them strong.

A highly recommended story.

About the Book: Can Olivia survive the crime and Gold Rush fever of 1849...and the countless marriage proposals?

The Daughters of the Mayflower series continues when Olivia Brighton finds herself widowed and working her brother’s restaurant in San Francisco during the height of the rush for gold. Even though she receives at least twenty marriage proposals a day, she will never marry a gold miner. Her brother’s friend Joseph Sawyer has gotten caught up in local politics and the plight of Chinese in forced labor. The more Joseph gets pulled into investigating crime in the city, the less Olivia sees of the compassionate man. And just when she thinks she could love again, a fire threatens to steal all hope.

Daughters of the Mayflower series:

• The Mayflower Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1620 Atlantic Ocean (February 2018)
• The Pirate Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1725 New Orleans (April 2018)
• The Captured Bride by Michelle Griep – set 1760 during the French and Indian War (June 2018)
• The Patriot Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse – set 1774 Philadelphia (August 2018)?
• The Cumberland Bride by Shannon McNear – set 1794 on the Wilderness Road (October 2018)
• The Liberty Bride by MaryLu Tyndall – set 1814 Baltimore (December 2018)
• The Alamo Bride by Kathleen Y’Barbo – set 1836 Texas (February 2019)
• The Golden Bride by Kimberley Woodhouse - set in 1849 California (April 2019)

GIVEAWAY

3 Winners Receive A Copy

Begins April 10

Ends May 2 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing to facilitate a review. Giveaway winners' copies will be provided and shipped directly to the winners by the publisher.

Classical Blue & White Chinese Restaurant Tea Set from Enjoying Tea Company brings authenticity to tea time [Review & Giveaway]

The Enjoying Tea Company is a uniquely wonderful company that carries a line of fabulous quality teas from across the globe. They also have tea accouterments, including a fine assortment of tea sets and implements that reflect on cultures and serving tea worldwide.

We've previously looked at English Tea Sets, Japanese Geisha Tea Set, modern glass tea sets and a variety of tea cups. Today we'll looking at a Classical Blue & White Chinese Restaurant Tea Set.

The cups in this set are delicately decorated with intricate designs reflective of Chinese art. The interior of the small tea cups is fully decorated which makes the pleasure of sipping one's tea even more enjoyable as the last bit is consumed leaving the joy of calming blue on white imagery.

My son and his family traveled to China a year ago and thoughtfully brought me a bag of lovely  Lychee that they obtained in a traditional Chinese tea house and which I have enjoyed thoroughly. But one doesn't have to travel extensively to enjoy a world of wonderful teas. Enjoyingtea.com has a fine assortment.

For example, the  Dragon Well Green Tea, (Lung Ching) is a beautiful green tea carried by Enjoying Tea. I enjoyed this green tea and found it light and aromatic. "This extraordinary green tea comes from the city of Hangzhou in Zhejiang province [China]. The flat leaves are harvested in early spring when the leaves are full of aroma."

I brewed Enjoying Tea's Zhjiang Silver Needle White Tea.
Lovely enjoyed in this authentic China tea cup.

They also carry Zhejiang Silver Needle  "white tea with a white downy appearance comes from the province of Zhejiang [China]. The Silver Needle, highest quality white tea, is picked during the spring before the buds open to preserve its tenderness. Exquisite and delicate, Silver Needle has a fresh, sweet fragrance and produces a pale yellow brew."

So whether you wish to just simply serve your favorite tea in these lovely Classical Blue and White Chinese tea cups or you want to go really authentic and brew a tea from one of the Chinese provinces, the tea pot and cups are lovely and great conversation pieces.

About the Tea Set (product information from EnjoyingTea.com)

This ceramic Chinese restaurant tea set with a classical blue and white design is the perfect companion for enjoying tea. The tea set includes the following:

• 1 teapot (approximate capacity: 1400ml or 47.6 fl oz; 6 1/2" h x 5" w x 6 3/4" l)
• 4 teacups (approximate dimension: 2" ht, 2 3/4" dia)
• Internal filter at the base of the spout

Currently on Sale at EnjoyingTea.com (originally $55 now $24.98) click here

Whether you enjoy your tea in a lovely garden with beautiful flowers
on in the comfort of your home..... a lovely tea set is a must!

GIVEAWAY

Classical Blue & White Chinese Restaurant Tea Set

Begins April 20

Ends May 19 at 12:01 EST

Open to USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary tea set to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by Enjoytea.com. 

Pantone Color of the Year 2019 is Living Coral and nothing brightens the day more - Priti NYC Nail Polish for beautiful hands [Review & Giveaway]

Nothing makes a lady feel more comfortable than having lovely hands. Of course, our hands look and feel different at the various stages of our lives. The 70 year old lady doesn't have the smooth, unblemished hands of a teen or 20-something. But they can still be lovely hands.

A bit of quality hand cream throughout the days and years goes a long way to ensure that your hands are comfortable and also that they are lovely.

A bit of polish adds just that - POLISH - to your look. And when you have added the bits and pieces of a polished look you walk a bit taller, stand a bit straighter, smile a bit more. So let's get that polish.....

Pantone Color of the Year 2019 - Living Coral

Living Coral for ladies in 2019 helps us face the year looking bright and beautiful, especially because "Pantone just announced the color of the year: Living Coral." Presented as an “animating and life-affirming shade of orange with a golden undertone.”

Nothing says 2019 quite like Pantone's Color of the Year: Living Coral. The bright orange with a golden tint screams springtime, plus it's flattering for every skin tone.

I was already a big fan of corals for summer fashion and for that splash of color on my hands. So when I learned that the Pantone color selection for this year was Living Coral, I was delighted.

PRITI NYC NATURAL NAIL POLISH #435 A TIME'S ROSE CORAL PANTONE (Coral Orange)

My thoughts:  This color is beautiful. I'm not the best at applying my own color polish, but this works better than most for me. I can hardly wait to take it to a salon and have them apply it for me professionally.

This lovely "A Time's Rose" by Priti NYC is Pantone 2019 inspired and will be lovely with my summer corals. I just love wearing corals with whites during the summer. So bright and fresh. This polish will add that finishing touch.

They have so many lovely shades in the Priti NYC line on the Good Earth Beauty web-store. Be sure to check them out. They are $13.00 a bottle.

Through May 14 you can use the DISCOUNT CODE Mom10 for a 10% discount. Also, you get FREE SHIPPING for all USA orders.

About the product: A natural nail polish! Priti Polishes are safe and completely Non-Toxic, and do not contain toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP’s. Each is housed in a 12.6 ml. bottle that is completely recyclable.

They are fast drying, chip resistant, non-yellowing, contain a UV inhibitor, and are super durable and glossy. All Priti Polishes are named after similar colored plants and flowers.

And while we're talking about this fabulous Living Coral let's talk other "coral" colored products on Good Earth Beauty....

Just look at this fabulous Beauty Box. It is a total beauty package featuring products in corals that are absolutely stunning. 

Box Includes - 

• Perufme Mai tai tiki , 
• Colorganics lipstick "Ginger", 
• Honeybee Gardens blush "euphoria", 
• Priti NYC nail polish rose #435 (YES, the same we've been talking about!). 

Total value $69.85 and it is sold exclusively on Good Earth Beauty for $49. 

I am just "itching" to try this Honeybee Gardens blush "euphoria." I love a faint blush of peach or coral in the summer. 

Find this lovely "coral" beauty box at https://www.goodearthbeauty.com/beauty-box-pantone-coral - If you don't want to go for the whole beauty box, pick out a couple or so items and go ahead and order them. You can simply search for the items separately (using the "search box") and then select the ones you want to buy. Don't forget your 10% discount code.

GIVEAWAY

A bottle of Priti NYC Nail Polish As Shown

Begins April 17

Ends May 16 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses only.
(No P.O. Boxes & Canada winner must provide phone number)

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Priti Natural Nail Care - Ingredients: Butyl Acetate (an organic compound common used as a solvent. Colorless, soluble found in many types of fruit), Ethyl Acetate (an organic compound with a pungent smell like pear drops), Nitrocellulose (a long lasting film forming agent derived from cellulose),  Acetyl Tributyl Citrate (colorless non-toxic liquid used as a food adaditive), Phthalic Anhydride/Trimellitic Anhydride/Glycols Copolymer (intermediate for the synthesis of surface coating in dyes and adhesives), Isopropyl Alcohol (non-toxic alternative to formaldehyde, Stearalkonium Hectorite (a thickening agent to make sure all the glitter doesn't sink to the bottom), Adipic Acid/Fumaric Acid/Phthalic Acid/Tricyclodecane Dimethanol Copolymer (an organic compound used as a food flavoring ingredient found in mushrooms, and lichen), Citric Acid – obtained from citrus fruits.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary bottle of the nail polish to use and to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone, and are freely given.

Mother's Day is coming! Grab a Good Earth Beauty gift box for Mother's Day & use Discount Code

Consider your mother - who she is - what she is - what she gave up for you - what she will always be to you.....

Once you've thought a bit about that lady who is your mother, stop and think a bit also about who you are to her - what you can do for her - what you will always mean to her.....

Now think a bit about bringing a bit of comfort and beauty into her life. Your smile. Your presence. Your gift of time. And while these are of paramount importance, you can also touch her  being with some comfort and beauty to ease her days.

Find It - Click Here - Buy It

Perhaps a special body scrub or body wash with the delightful scent of almond and honey to treat her to a luxurious shower or bath. And then perhaps a nice toner and serum to help her care for the skin on her sweet face.

Doesn't Mom deserve a bit of lovely pampering? 

Mother's loving and capable hands that once held you have grown older, work-worn, weathered, wrinkled. Now she holds you with her heart.

The Good Earth Beauty Exclusives line of all natural products and the other all natural brands carried on the Good Earth Beauty web-store bring their customers a lovely box uniquely prepared each year for Mother's Day. There are full size products in the box as well as mini-sized products. 

The 2019 Mother's Day Beauty Box includes the following items:

• Full sized Lipstick by Hemp organics, and samples/minis of :

  

  Full sized Lipstick by Hemp Organics
  Find it on GoodEarthBeauty
  Regular price $20.85

• Pacha body scrub (I absolutely love this body scrub and so do my daughters!)
• Pure Anada mini mascara 
• Good Earth Beauty Almond perfume
• Good Earth Beauty Aloe toner (I have a bottle of this and it is so pleasant to use on my face.)
• Good Earth Beauty facial serum
• Good Earth Beauty honey almond body wash 
• Good Earth Beauty shower whip almond cream

I heartily recommend the Good Earth Beauty Exclusives brand products (I use their shampoo and conditioner regularly.) I have used and reviewed other Pure Anada products and love them, too. Good Earth Beauty is so good to work with and their products are #natural and many are vegan.

Help the kids gift Mom a special gift..... 

Now Dad, you need to think about helping those children find a worthy gift for Mom. You can help them order this gift box and take 10% off the price by using the discount code of Mom10 10% off all purchases thru May 14th. And as always on Good Earth Beauty your order SHIPS FREE in the USA

You can pull this one off for just $29.00 and that includes FREE SHIPPING. Well, don't forget you can use the discount code and get 10% off the $29. So you've whittled it down to just over $26.

The Almond sample/mini perfume is such fun to use!
It is unusual and so pleasant!

Of course, if you'd rather get individual items from anywhere on on the Good Earth Beauty web-store, you can still get FREE SHIPPING and use the Mom10 for 10% discount.

NOTE: Good Earth Beauty products are made in the USA in small batches. Shower whip and Pacha Scrub flavors are while supplies last and could be substituted. Also, this is a bargain! The sample sizes are usually priced around $4 each and the lipstick is $20.85.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary Mother's Day Beauty Box to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Where The Angels Lived: One Family’s Story of Exile, Loss, and Return by Margaret McMullan [Non-fiction Giveaway]

 “The destruction of the Jews in the country districts of Hungary was a simple business. The Germans made good use of their experience gained annihilating between three to four million Polish, German and Austrian Jews.”

I was given the opportunity to share information about Where the Angels Lived: One Family's Story of Exile, Los, and Return. Not having the personal time currently to read and absorb this memoir or journey of discovery of this family's history, I have chosen to go ahead and share some tidbits of information about the book and to host a giveaway. Needless to say, this is one that will inhabit my "to be read" shelf until I find the opportunity to delve into it.

The author discovered that her family has been comprised of distinguished and influential individuals in the days prior to the Holocaust. It seems that her family lived in Hungary. Also, they were affected by the Hungarian Holocaust.

“Sitting there in the pew carved of Moravian oak, I start to shake. I curse every last Hungarian who deported or murdered my family. See? Look at me. My mother got out and she had me and I had a son. You didn’t end us.”

The author journeyed to Israel and discovered the existence of Richard Engel de Janosi  a long-lost relative, at Israel's Holocaust Museum. So began an unexpected journey of revelation and connectivity as she tirelessly researches the history of her ancestors, the Engel de Janois.

While teaching as a Fullbright at a Hungarian University, she traveled to Pecs, the land of her mother's Jewish lineage. While in Pecs, a small Hungarian town that is primarily Christian, she realized how difficult her mission was to be. Thus began her determined and relentless documentation of a woman picking up the pieces of her family's fragmented history throughout the Hungarian Holocaust.

Historical, authentic, and family-oriented, Where the Angels Lived tells the tale of a somewhat parallel universe that exists even in the 21st century - dealings with Soviet-style bureaucracy, skepticism, anti-Semitism, and ironically the same sort of isolation and rejection Margaret's Jewish Hungarian family experienced in 1944 before they were forced into concentration camps.

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 15
Ends May 7 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this posting. Information is gleaned from materials already available. Winner's book is provided and shipped by publicist or author directly to the winner.

Easter is Coming by Tama Fortner & illustrated by Wazza Pink

My thoughts:  Little ones get so caught up in the worldly frills of "Easter" with the beauty of Spring blooming all around them, new outfits, Easter baskets, egg hunts that they actually know little, if anything, about the reason there is an Easter (or rather, Resurrection Sunday).

So we try to tell them the beautiful yet horrific story of the betrayal, crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and Saviour. But it is a story that is hard for young minds to comprehend. So it is normally presented in a sweet, very short version that ends with the joy of the Resurrected Christ and an empty tomb. All well and good, yet somehow still missing the point in its brevity.

The author of Easter is Coming does a fabulous joy of taking young listeners from original sin to the Resurrected Christ at the empty tomb. The story of Easter in anticipation.

Throughout the book a bit of a Bible story or event is told and it ends with "Those people didn't know, but we know... Easter is Coming!" Joyful! Anticipation! Even at the Last Supper, when Judas left the room.... "Judas didn't know, but we know.... Easter is Coming!"

I highly recommend this lovely book and its lovely treatment of the joyful anticipation and fulfillment of the Resurrection of our Lord - Easter is Coming.....

About the book: Mommy and her little ones are settling in for story time, and this time it’s the biblical story of Easter that she’s telling. As the youngsters hear God’s tale unfold with its sometimes somber notes about sin and death, they are softly and continually reminded, “But Easter is coming!” By the end of the book, the anticipation has built and the children can celebrate the ending and the glory of Easter Sunday.

In a time when children’s Easter excitement often focuses on only egg hunts and candy, this book offers a different—and true—reason for joy and expectancy. It's designed to be read and reread on the days leading up to Easter, telling the greatest story and building a sense of anticipation and celebration in little hearts.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from B & H Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Inside Outside by Anne-Margot Ramstein and Matthias Arégui {Review & 2-Book Giveaway 2-Winners USA/CANADA}

Books without words can seem to be worthless because the whole issue of literacy is the ability to read and write WORDS. Since early man, the desire and skill to communicate has been expressed. First of all the spoken word was the means of communication and then forms of drawings to represent their lives. So the transition to the means to write and read words is an achievement of mankind that should be guarded and appreciated.

So why the "wordless books" or books without words in today's world?

The simple reason is that the author/artist is encouraging the young reader to approach these works as adventures in discovery by the attention to minute detail.  Now let's look at two books whose approach is the concept of wordless "reading."

Inside Outside by Anne-Margot Ramstein and Matthias Arégui

ISBN: 9781536205978
Hardcover $18.99
Preschool-Grade 3
Buy on Amazon

My thoughts:  I like the concept of having children take the time to peruse the entire image and find details. I also like the concept of this book that causes the child to explore relationships between the outside and the inside. Snowing or storming outside;  safe and dry inside. Unhatched duckling inside; mama duck with babies outside. Diggers above ground or outside; a man inside a crystal cave exploring.

The illustrations are bold with limited detail but enough to enable the child to observe and understand the difference between the inside on one page and the outside on the next.

I can see this book being used in a variety of ways. Young children will delight in finding the details and learning the concept of what happens inside and what happens outside. I can also see this being used to some degree in a Special Education class to help these older students with limited understanding grasp concepts that border on being abstract.

About the book: From the creators of Before After comes another striking book of opposites, this time exploring the concepts of within and without with bright, bold graphics.

Safe inside its shell, a baby bird prepares to brave the world. A spelunker descends into a wide and glittering cavern while fellow explorers cluster around a crack in the earth. Fire-red ants march busily around their anthill, oblivious of a hungry anteater waiting above. Smart and stylish, this oversize art book takes a unique approach to the concept of inside and outside, offering clever and unexpected examples that will delight readers and spark conversations about context and perspective. Inside Outside is sure to find a place in collections, on coffee tables, in classrooms, and anywhere curious minds can be found.

Before After by Matthias Arégui & illustrated by Anne-Margot Ramstein 

ISBN: 9780763676216
Preschool-Grade 3
Hardcover $19.99
Buy on Amazon

My thoughts: The author and illustrator have created a  fascinating piece that will definitely open wide the doors of contemplation and discussion as to what is first and what comes after. Or rather which comes first and which comes later. But then.... we begin and end with day or is it night we begin and end with....

The two-page spreads show simple before and after such as acorn and mighty oak, caterpillar and butterfly. The illustrations are both bold and subdued. The color pallet distinguished by distinctly bold colors as well as some soft pastels. The drawings which are digitally generated are clean, clear, and simplistic.

This is definitely a book that school classrooms and libraries of every ilk need to procure. There is so much to be contemplated and there are concepts to be discussed and explored. A definite winner.

About the book: Everyone knows that a tiny acorn into a mighty oak grows, and a caterpillar emerges into a butterfly. But in this book, it's also true that a cow can result in both a bottle of milk and a painting of a cow, and an ape in a jungle may become an urban King Kong. Just as day turns into night and back again, a many-tiered cake is both created and eaten down to a single piece. Each spread or sequence of spreads explores a before and after.

 ~+~ GIVEAWAY ~+~

2 Winners Each Receive Both Books

Begins April 14

Ends May 12 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA/CANADA

NO P.O. BOXES, Please

(Canadian winners: phone number is required)

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a copy of both books from Candlewick Press to facilitate my review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winners' copies are provided and shipped directly to the winner by Candlewick Press.

Baby Caleb loves his fabulous Cuclie Baby Peruvian Pima Cotton outfits (Plus A Giveaway of beautiful Baby Cuclie Blanket)

The Cuclie Baby line of classic clothes and blankets are a beautiful and elegant gift for any expectant parent. Clothes are available in soft colors and blanket is white edged in pink, blue, or grey. You can shop with confidence for Cuclie baby items.

I received these lovely pieces to facilitate a review and then gifted them to a young mother in our family for Baby Caleb. Below are pictures this lovely young lady took of her precious Caleb dressed in these fabulous pieces. I've included her brief comments.....

"It was so much fun to dress him in such fine clothes! Thank you for sharing with us!"

This lovely piece is the palest of pale blue with delicate embroidery across the chest area. The sleeves and legs are short for those warmer days. The collar and binding on sleeves and legs is white. Such a lovely, soft piece of beautiful clothing for a beautiful baby boy.

"We really love the buttery-soft cotton used in these beautiful Cuclie baby clothes! "

Baby Caleb loves the soft warmth of this precious sweater. Knit of breathable Pima Cotton, side buttons, delicate edging, and sweet embroidery. A unique piece that is a sure winner!

"He looks ready for any event, and couldn't be more comfortable."

This beautiful outfit features long sleeves and footed legs that are perfect for when it is a bit cooler. The outfit is pure white with pale blue collar. The embroidery across the chest features a small boy and his boats. Absolutely "top drawer" in quality and perfection.

"The attention to detail is astonishing. From the delicate embroidery to the scalloped edges, it is clear each piece is thoughtfully and lovingly put together."

Cuclie Baby is a baby clothing brand dedicated to preserving traditional aesthetic using the world's finest natural fibers.

Pima cotton baby clothing, blankets & accessories. Newborn-24 months. Made in Peru with love... 💜💙 

💙You can find similar pieces at the Etsy Cuclie Baby shop (click here).

💙Their online website (click here) will not be "shoppable" for about another month.

💙Do check out stores that carry the Cuclie brand - Click Here.

In addition to the wonderful clothes, the Cuclie blanket is simply beautiful. The woven in design is simple with understated charm. The delicate edging in blue, pink, or grey is sweet. It is soft beyond description. And one of Chat With Vera's readers has the opportunity to receive one for their own little one or to gift to new mother. Winner may choose from either pink or blue edged blanket. Use the Rafflecopter entry form below.

Blanket information: Dimensions - 38" x 29" - Composition - 70% Pima Cotton, 30% Modal made from Bamboo, Price ~$48.00.

"We will certainly cherish these long after he's outgrown them!"

~|~|~ GIVEAWAY ~|~|~

1 Baby Blanket - Either Pink or Blue Edging
Winner's Choice
Begins April 7

Ends May 6 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Special thanks to Baby Caleb's mother, R.Roddenberry-Smith for the great pictures. R.R-S is  a professional photographer and artist whose work you can check out - click here. (Photographs may not be used without author's permission.)

DISCLOSURE: I received these lovely products to facilitate a review. Any opinions given are my own alone and are freely given. I was not required to render positive thoughts on the products. I only recommend those products which I or a member of my family or close friends and and will use. The winner's prize will be provided and shipped directly to the winner either by the publicist or representative of Cuclie Baby. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or damaged products.