Monday, November 04, 2013

OraMD Mouth Doctor: An Unbelievably Effective 3-In-1 Oral Care Product!!


This product has all the properties I seek in an oral care product. First, it is made of peppermint,  spearmint and almond oil. Read the ingredients for yourself! http://www.trustedhealthproducts.com/oramd/. Secondly, no GMO's!!!! Third, this product truly does serve three purposes: toothpaste, mouthwash and breath freshener.

Be prepared tho cause the very first time I added this liquid to my toothbrush, I experienced a big boost of minty goodness. I got a little on my lip and was surprised how much it tingled. However, I was prepared for this sensation as I read all of the literature and the website before reviewing.

Even tho I gave up the bad-for-you chemically-laced toothpastes long ago (after not using those products for awhile, if you do try them again, the sugar is so evident and the paste actually tastes chalky [yuck]), I was not expecting OraMD to be a much different experience than my usual 100% pure toothpaste.

I have tried other natural liquid tooth cleaners in the past and enjoyed being able  to stow the .5 oz bottle into my jean pocket or purse and conveniently use when I need a breath freshener. You can't squirt toothpaste in your mouth and use as a breath freshener, so I was excited alone by the liquid breath freshener aspect of this product. I assumed it would serve two purposes well (mouthwash, breath freshener on the go).

However, I give this product raves because after using it just once my teeth felt clean all day long even though I only brushed my teeth with it in the morning!!! I can't say that for any other natural toothpaste I have ever used. The tartar always seems to coat my teeth by early afternoon, especially after eating breakfast, drinking coffee, a glass of wine and dinner.

Also, I was so excited to see that OraMD is Made in the USA. I really do support US made products now more than ever. I recommend OraMD also because it will save you money. Right now, I have an expensive organic, 100% pure mouthwash on my bathroom sink. I have a half a dozen all natural (good-for-you) toothpastes. Then, throughout my house and in my purse and in the car, I am always hunting for gum and breath mints.I am always buying products. Leave a bottle of OraMD in your medicine cabinet, in your car, and in your purse. Also, buy your friends three bottles each for their Christmas stocking and for Hanukah, Kwanza, or whatever you celebrate. These days we must be smart consumers. OraMD is one smart product!!!

This product truly provides three purposes and performs all three purposes better than any other tooth product I have used. Since I am a Berean, I recommend you research the clinical study results of OraMD for yourself here

Review Opportunity:
The following offer from the manufacturer of OraMD is for any of you who read this blog: 
The manufacturer is willing to offer my readers one FREE bottle. They said they would love to have my readers try out OraMD and agreed to send one bottle FREE if my readers would pay a minimal shipping and handling charge.  They also agreed to include 2 eye-opening reports called 1) “The 6 Hidden Dangers In Toothpaste” and 2) “Why The FDA Requires A Warning Label On Your Toothpaste.”  That’s a total value of over $40.00.  Click here to get your FREE bottle and FREE reports now.”

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this product free from Trusted Health Products Inc. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Wednesday, October 02, 2013

Why Not Fishtail It??




Ladies, braids are for every age! This braid is as my Premier Jeweler oh so wisely terms it - a No Man Braid (she calls bracelets that stretch No Man bracelets cause you don't need any help putting them on!) Try a new hair style today. Takes just a few minutes! How Fun!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this video free from Glamour as part of their wonderful e-newsblast. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Tuesday, October 01, 2013

Be Exempt From Obamacare!

 Ahhh...deep breath. The government had partially shut down at midnight but the sun still rose this morning. My electricity is on and - - -believe it or not - -- the mailman just plopped mail in my box!

Reason For My Post
My husband and I are exempt from Obamacare. Yes! Exempt. We became officially accepted into the Medi-Share Medical Sharing program today. Our share amount has been cut in half as compared to a Cigna policy we cancelled six months ago (Premium was over $550.00/month and would no doubt go through the roof under Obamacare in short order).

Learn more below 

Please mention Christina Donato referred you when you contact Dan Runion, the representative, as I do not receive compensation for any of my reviews so having a referral would be such a blessing!!!
 Dear ChristinaWillReviewIt Readers,

There are over 60,000 Christians who share each other's eligible medical bills through Medi-Share and Medi-Share'd love for you to join them!

Reviewing the following information will be helpful to you as you consider Medi-Share for your healthcare:

Please do not hesitate to contact the person who signed us up directly (Dan Runion | Member Development Specialist) if you have any questions about the Medi-Share program or the application process. Mention Christina Donato referred you, please.
If you’d like to apply now, you can email or call Dan and he would be happy to assist you with your application over the phone.

Dan Runion's 411
1-800-772-5623 #2368 or email drunion@tccm.org
P.O. Box 120099, West Melbourne, FL 32912-0099
MyChristianCare.org


Disclosure of Material Connection: I was not required to write a positive review of my experience and program participation with Medi-Share. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

 Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Monday, September 09, 2013

English Breakfast Tea by EnjoyingTea.com


I sampled EnjoyingTea.com's English Breakfast tea. I chose the very convenient tea bag although I could have opted to review the same loose tea use a teaball. No matter, this tea reminded me that breakfast is a very good time to for a tea party!

I did add boiling water to a bodum glass (so I could see the color (how dark or light it steeped just to report my findings in this review). I waited five minutes, then added Agave and some lemon to it. This tea was not as dark in color as I had expected and truly would be perfect with scones of any kind. I enjoyed this tea hot but don't think it would be as good with ice.

One comment I did have was that I noticed this tea bag package did not have a label on it, and upon opening the plastic covering, the teabag label attached with a string to the teabag also did not state what type of tea it was. I mention this because of course every tea-throwing hostess will use a tea box and proudly display her tea collection so that her guests can pick their favorite tea from the teabox. Not having a label stating English Breakfast tea was a bit of a bummer. I could  hand write on the package, but this just seemed like work.

Excuse me for being picayune but such a wonderful online tea store no doubt can handle picayune criticism!

I am excited to continue to witness the success of EnjoyingTea.com. Their selection and variety not to mention price are impressive. Visit their store today. Plenty of time for me to get organized for a Christmas Tea Party this year! I just dusted off my teapot and teacups. I have my favorite teas ready to present.  I perfected a pretty good scone recipe too. Contact me and I'll shoot you my scone recipe. Gotta go write my guest list. Martha Stewart I ain't. But I'll sure have a lot of fun trying....
 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this product free from EnjoyingTea.com for the purpose of review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers

Rarely (if ever) do I get excited to find a Christian fiction book which I can't wait to devour. Redeeming Love was like finding an old friend. I had read this anointed work by Francine Rivers about 15 years ago when I first became a Christian. I was sorry to have lent it out and not gotten it back. So naturally, I jumped at the chance when I saw Multnomah had offered Redeeming Love in their Blogging For Books program. I was pleased to receive a print copy to read and enjoy all over again.

This book was a Twentieth-Anniversary edition complete with a Study Guide, which is why I also recommended this book for a Women's Bible Study as well as a personal growth tool for anyone who "is hurting and hungry." I quoted those words because Ms. Rivers dedicated this book "To those who hurt and hunger."

Scripture and people of note throughout history were mentioned at the beginning of each chapter. The storyline was so intriguing and paralleled the story of Hosea in the Bible. Without spoiling by sharing too many details, I recommend each reader to first read the Book of Hosea in the Bible in order to lay the groundwork for this book. 

Since I have read the entire Lineage of Grace series (historical fiction) by Francine Rivers, I have come to appreciate her ability to stick close to a storyline in which a Christian Bible-reading woman could relate to in the Bible. The fiction aspect of Redeeming Love to me was merely in the names of the main characters as well as the era in which the story took place.

I will always stand in long lines and wait in the rain to receive a book by Francine Rivers. Thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah I didn't have to do either to receive Redeeming Love. I was truly blessed to once again have and then to review such a wonderful book. It will be a part of my personal library now. I recommend this book to women everywhere! Get your copy today.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Multnomah Publishers as part of their Blogging for Books bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Oolong Teabags From Enjoyingtea.com

Enjoyingtea.com once again tickled my taste buds with a tea I have never tried. I read the box first. I decided to try the very clever trick recommended for a great tasty iced tea. I boiled 8 ounces of water and then placed not one - but two teabags in the water. I let the teabags steep just til the water was cool enough to place in the fridge. I came back about an hour later and added ice.

Duh. Why didn't I think of doubling up on tea bags long ago in order to get a full-bodied cold tea? I did not add lemon or honey to the cold tea. I just didn't miss those two elements in this nutty tea. I usually add lemon and honey to hot tea, but wanted to experience this tea with nothing but ice. It was delicious. Refreshing. I will make this tea often. I will make it ahead of time and leave it in the fridge. 

The Chinese credit Oolong tea with having slimming effects. A cup a day may keep the bad cholesterol away... Check it out for yourself! http://cholesterol.about.com/od/cholesterolloweringfoods/a/tea.htm.

Order a box or two or three - today at http://www.enjoyingtea.com/enooteabag.html! For less than $3.00 (and free shipping with min. purchase) you will receive a box of 20 teabags. I highly recommend Enjoyingtea.com Oolong Tea bags. They have instant Oolong tea too. May sample some. The instant tea I reviewed recently was so convenient in a water bottle with cold water while on the run. See Instant Jasmine Tea review. Happy sipping!!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this product free from Enjoyingtea.com.I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Damascus Countdown by Joel C. Rosenberg



I chose to review Damascus Countdown because honestly, I enjoy Joel C. Rosenberg's writing style and his art of telling a fictional story in a Christian family friendly fashion. This 465 page novel was exciting from beginning to end. I rarely am able to head off to bed with a book and stay awake for longer than ten minutes or so. However, with this book I actually had to force myself to shut off my nightlight and go to sleep (at times the action left me wide-eyed!).

Without being a spoiler (and without narrating the story, which you already can read about at Tyndale House), this story was eerily similar to what is happening in Israel today. The story highlighted David's plight to save the day. He was a hero and I felt that I was riding on his shoulder throughout the book. I cheered and sighed and stamped my feet.

I appreciated the one-word demonstration of sound as illustrated on page 87. The author drew me in to the scene with the use of Beep... This one word ushered in a voice mail message sequence. Segues such as this were used throughout. For example, there were changes in scenes which occurred rapidly with the use of a subtitle listing the city and state. I did not feel confused in the least even though the scenes changed rapidly and the pace of the characters had increased exponentially. For these reasons and so many more, I was able to be drawn into the storyline and enjoy myself immensely! This fast-paced writing style was artfully done by the author.

This book could be made into a Hollywood Blockbuster! However, I would rather read the book. I enjoyed many hours of escape from the daily grind while reading Joel C. Rosenberg's book. I highly recommend it for a great summer read! Buy two copies. One for your personal library and one for your best friend. You can share the plot together as it unfolds and exclaim over and over again, "Can you believe......"

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Tyndale Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Tuesday, July 09, 2013

Doctor's Skin Recovery Serum by Dr. Denese New York


 
This product by Dr. Denese is a new must-have in my microdermabrasion skin care arsenal. I apply this serum (liberally btw) on my face and neck after using my Microdermabrasion machine. I leave it on for a full 12 hours - yes I do not rinse until after coffee and croissant! The trick with this recovery serum is that one must leave it on so that it can do its work to restore the damage done to skin cells and to get rid of surface pigmentation inconsistencies.

After a microdermabrasion, toning and recovery serum session, my skin not only glows but looks evened out, the skin a more healthy brown and less discoloration or white marks due to sunblock.

I am one of those people who believe that my daily dose of Vitamin D must come from the sun (it's free - after all!). I take a supplement from Life Extension called FernRoot which is an oral supplement that will undo the sun's damage before my cells are radicalized. I also wear UV/UVB Broad Spectrum lotion but still - having products that can help my surface sun damage is so helpful! Also convenient. And affordable - which I appreciate most.

Be prepared to use this product liberally. If you do not, you will not enjoy its many benefits as quickly! Dr. Denese outdid herself on this serum. Get yours today...

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this product free from Dr. Denese New York for the purpose of review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Unexpected Love: God's Heart Revealed in Jesus's Conversations With Women by Julie Zine Coleman

Unexpected Love was a breath of fresh air! This anointed work by Julie Zine Coleman highlighted nine women of the Bible and their interaction with Jesus in the Bible. The tone in which the author used was conversational but rich in context. I actually felt like I was there in each scene with Jesus and the women, listening in on their conversations!

I learned about water used for purification rites as well as being a part of the first miracle (wedding at Cana). Water has so much more meaning than to satisfy our thirst!

Every word in the Bible is used to demonstrate God's love and plan for each of us. Often, someone will throw out the lie that God disrespects women or seeks to repress women. This lie from the pit of hell is refuted over and over again in each Biblical account in this book. I saw the woman at the well in a new way as well as Martha and Mary. The author dove into a word here or there and expounded on the context and  historical perspective of that word. Her digging and explanations were so rich and she was an excellent teacher for this reason.

There were many great comments such as (page 150), "Being part of a Christian organization doesn't give you a relationship with God any more than touring the White House makes you the president."

I recommend this book to anyone seeking to grow closer to Jesus (which includes a lot of us!). This book would also make for an excellent women's or teen's Bible study book as there are two sections: "For Today's Woman" as well as "Food for Thought" at the end of each chapter. There was also a section titled "Journaling" at the end of each chapter with excellent questions to challenge the reader to journal.

Unexpected Love was all about Jesus being in love with women. This book will bless you and remind you to take time every now and then to spend time at Jesus's feet as He truly longs for us to take a breath and a moment to inhale His sweet aroma. What a blessed God we serve!!! Truly, Unexpected Love.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Friday, June 21, 2013

EnjoyingTea.com Flask & Instant Jasmine Tea: Applause All Around



You got me at carabiner. Yes, this stainless steel 20.3 oz artfully decorated - might I add gold-threaded interior washer arrived waiting to be tested.

And test I did. I added room temp bottled spring water, then added 3-1/8 tsp of Instant Jasmine Tea. I shook, then waited. See, I thought the instant tea had to disintegrate. Boy, was I wrong!

This flask with the instant tea from EnjoyingTea.com is so much better than the add the loose tea variety and strain, or mash a strainer to the bottom of the bottle and then drink. You can drink this tea right away! No doubt, you can add warm water (but don't have to) and then chill in the fridge. I just added room temp water and an ice cube from my water bottle ice cube tray (It freezes in a size suitable for water bottles).

The instant Jasmine tea was earthy, and full of flavor. I did not miss my coffee this morning and even took my Juice Plus supplements and all my other supplements with the tea without even missing my oj. If I had the time, I would chill in the fridge, but I found chilling not even necessary.

I have never found a tea product to be so accommodating and easy for the person on the go. This product would be perfect for car travel. The only product I have ever tried similar to this product was Yerba Mate. But I sincerely liked the flavor of the Instant Jasmine Tea compared to the more earthy, less floral Yerba Mate.

I highly recommend any tea lover test drive this instant tea in the flask. I did appreciate the carabiner. I love small touches and then the rest just adds to the specialness of a product. This picture does not do this inexpensive ($8.98) flask justice. Get one today, along with an instant tea of your choice. For you. For a friend. For an enemy. Why not? You might just turn an enemy into a friend!!!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from www.EnjoyingTea.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

EnjoyingTea.com Giveaway



Rules:
  1. Like Us On Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/EnjoyingTeacom/221634471260281
  2. Email Christina your name christina@wordsofgrace.info
  3. Choose the tea you would like to win by visiting www.EnjoyingTea.com. If you do not choose, a tea will be chosen for you (one small canister of tea included)
  4. There will be only one winner. Winner will be notified via email. Winner will be chosen at random. Giveway open only to U.S. residents with valid US postal address.  Deadline for submitting your chance at winning giveway: Midnite, July 26th
  5. Hope you win!!!
THE GIVEAWAY
An excellent tea maker that is practical and simple to use. Made of durable food grade plastic. Stainless steel filter included. Dishwasher Safe. Approx capacity: 470ml (16 fl oz). 3 1/2" Diameter x 5 3/4" Height. Made in Taiwan with BPA-free Tritan plastic.

Basic Instructions
  1. Place tea leaves in the Smart Tea Maker.
  2. Add boiling water.
  3. Steep tea to your taste.
  4. Place the Smart Tea Maker on top of a cup or mug and let the tea drain into the cup.
  5. Remove the Smart Tea Maker to stop the flow. Your tea is ready to serve.  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this Giveaway Opportunity from EnjoyingTea.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Enjoying Tea.com - Chinese Restaurant Chrysanthemum Puerh Tea

 EnjoyingTea.com blessed me with the opportunity to review a tea I have not only never have tasted - but have never known existed!! For those of you who have never drunk a flower tea - Chrysanthemum and Puerh are the go to after dinner drink in Chinese Restaurants to help digestion and lower cholesterol levels. Who knew?

Don't allow the petite-sized tea bag to fool you - even before I added boiling water, honey and lemon (I always add lemon and honey to my tea) I was assaulted in a very good way with an earthy scent. I am not sure if the earthiness is from the flower or the Puerh. If you Google Puerh (actually spelled
Pu-erh correctly in Chinese), you will realize the cholesterol-lowering properties are from the Puerh.

Who doesn't want their HDL levels raised? My husband would benefit from this tea. I plan to brew it early in the am. Most likely in my coffee pot or french press or my EnjoyingTea Flask (soon to be reviewed) I would add a few tea bags and steep. Cool, then blend with a spirulina powder fruit shake for his breakfast on the go. Shhh - he will never know I have added this tea goodness to his morning routine!

Puerh does contain some caffeine, although drinking Chrysanthemum Puerh Tea by www.EnjoyingTea.com would be a much lower caffeine, healthier alternative to my regular cup of Joe. Of course the Berean in me Googled 'Chrysanthemum Tea' for fun. I found a great site for health benefits of drinking this tea http://www.bewellbuzz.com/wellness-buzz/10-health-benefits-chrysanthemum-tea/.

Check out www.EnjoyingTea.com for tea recipes. Check out these recipes.

Please support this amazing company and feel free to encourage viewers to like us on Facebook.  Please see link for our Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/EnjoyingTeacom/221634471260281

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from EnjoyingTea.com. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Friday, May 17, 2013

Breakfast with Bonhoeffer by Jon Walker

I had looked forward to reading this selection as I am attracted by anything Bonhoeffer. Bonhoeffer was quoted throughout the book, but no references annotated to prove I was indeed getting the real Bonhoeffer. Instead of the chosen title, his book should have been titled What Would Bonhoeffer Do?

There were Scripture references sprinkled in as well as challenges posed in parallel fashion to the trial or lessons learned. I appreciated the author's transparent sharing of his trials and struggles but I believe the book would have been better if it was presented in a more objective or general confession format (TMI). Some examples would be: premarital sex and getting pregnant, heeding advice from a pastor who advised getting an abortion, getting a divorce but not disclosing why, online dating, random mentions of pornography which were not in context, no common sense, and confusion (example page 169, last paragraph).

Another struggle I had was with the writing style. Sometimes a paragraph would be in present tense (reminded me of the beginning of a joke - a la "A guy walks in a bar and...) and then the very next chapter I would not understand the timing. I often wondered if I was thrown into a flashback or current situation with information missing. Because of this disjointed, fragmented style, I would not understand and be able to commiserate with the situation the author was facing.

I concluded the author did not have male accountability (p.131-132) but then cheered when Mark appeared for a sentence (p.141). I had a problem with the author's decision on page 195, "Naively I said, I want to pray for the money I need, and then walk to the mailbox the next day and find a check for exactly the amount I need." I realize the author admitted this was not wise (after the fact), but I witnessed so many of these types of decisions being made throughout the book. Yes, we must trust but God also tells us if we do not work we will not eat. Having been a pastor, the author should have known better 2 Thess 3.

There were beams of brilliance scattered throughout which I appreciated. The author had a way of sharing his thoughts in breakthrough moments of descriptions of emotional pain, watching nature and casual humor. I appreciated his health issues and struggle to live a healthy life emotionally as well as physically. He was a victim throughout and I am still wondering why his wife divorced him and would not disclose where she and the boys lived.

My favorite part of the book was knowing the author splurged on a new toaster. After all, nobody likes burnt toast.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Leafwood Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Thursday, May 16, 2013

God's Wild Herbs By Dennis Ellingson

A companion volume to God's Healing Herbs, this book enticed the reader to get out into the wild in search of herbs which God provided for our enjoyment and nourishment. While I already consider dandelion greens (I buy them every Saturday morning at our Boca Downtown Greenmarket) a safe to eat,  delicious special herb, there were other herbs I was introduced to that I still may not feel comfortable picking and eating on a hike in another town. For example, another weed named Purslane interested me. Perhaps Dennis Ellingson would like to accompany me on a nature hike through a heavily weeded area so we could pick our salad greens safely? For I would so love to become a forager and live to tell and teach about it!!!

Precious and really appreciated were the recipes threaded throughout this very special book. Sarah Campbell shared her Chickweed Pesto recipe on page 39. Complete with kelp, walnuts, garlic, evoo, salt, parmesan cheese, black pepper (and chickweed of course!), I found this recipe clever. I do not believe my Italian husband would miss the basil for even a minute! Now, where do I find chickweed? Oh that's right - the author told me. It grows in my front yard in early spring. I quote, "Another name for the plant is winterweed" because it really begins its largest growth spurt during the fall, through winter and then, bang, come spring and the stuff is all over the place." As if we needed another good reason to discontinue our lawn pesticide service forever!

The photos were very helpful. Kit Ellingson took the photos for which we applaud her courage as she climbed through all things green and buggy to get the perfect shots. I enjoyed the beauty on each and every page.

Author Dennis Ellingson can be found on Facebook as The Herb Guy. He is also a Pastor and family man. I appreciated God's Wild Herbs and hope to bravely search for and successfully find some of the wild herbs presented. I know I would be in good company with other foragers four legged and other. God is so good to give us His creation. We just need to go out and enjoy it! Thank you Dennis Ellingson for an inspirational guide book to wild herbs!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Cladach Publishing as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

God's Healing Herbs by Dennis Ellingson

Complete with recipes, pencil sketch drawing of herbs with full context of their history back in the Bible days and so much more! I love this book as it served as a book I would keep in my kitchen bookshelf and refer to often.
 
My hope is that I will become a wealth of knowledge in regard to everyday herbs I use to make my family's meals. I consider knowing these facts about herbs a bridge to connect with those who may not normally be open to Bible facts who visit me for a meal or just to hang out in my kitchen. In this manner, I consider this special book a witnessing tool.
 
I appreciated the three separate sections titled: Twelve Essential Herbs for Women, Men and Children. I had not considered herbs as plant life that would heal me or lead to better health. I did not think of herbs as anything else but flavoring for an entrée or dessert. I considered herbs to be a garnish. Not so, as you will learn in God's Healing Herbs. In the Table of Medicinal Herbs: External and Internal, I was surprised to learn I could use herbs such as cinnamon and ginger on my hair! I found the internal chart to be not only exciting but inspiring. God intended for us to eat off the land. How far we have come from this basic approach. All the answers are in this book for the reader to not only live a healthy life by eating herbs but to overcome existing disease by eating herbs!
 
This book gives me hope that a Christian who has given up control of their health to the western attitude of "just pop a pill" will have their eyes opened to the exciting world of healing herbs which God intended for our use. This book has become a part of my personal library and though I will share the title with others, I will not allow my copy of God's Healing Herbs to leave my house.
 
Lastly, I smiled as I noticed the dedication on the front inside cover. It read, "Dedicated to the Lord God, who was "walking in the garden in the cool of the day" (Gen 3:8)."
 
Thank you God for the garden, for the thorns and thistles and so much more. Thank you Dennis Ellingson, for leading us to the back to the ground for a taste of all that was and still is good in the garden.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Cladach Publishing as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.
 
 

 

Monday, April 29, 2013

A Heart Like His by Beth Moore

Another anointed work by Beth Moore. David is clearly the star in this book. In true Beth Moore style, we are taken a journey of forgiveness which begins with the life of David but ends with personal introspection aimed at leading the reader closer to Jesus.
 
Often, it felt as if Beth Moore was sitting beside me in each chapter. I could almost hear her voice as she shouted truth across each and every page. 
 
I would recommend reader reading 1 Samuel before beginning this book. Because Scripture was interlaced, I found it helpful to read all of 1 Samuel so that when she mentioned detailed situations, I did not have to put the book down and go read my Bible, thus interupting the flow of my time with God reading this book.
 
I did not get the impression that this book was intended for group Bible study, but there were review questions at the end of the book that I found intriguing.
 
At times I felt the chapters to be meaty and I had to stop reading because there was so much to take in, but this type of writing style I so very much appreciate because Beth Moore's teaching style sticks with me. I really appreciate her heart for God. She truly does have A Heart Like His just as David did!  

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Shelton Interactive as part of BH Publishing Group book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Sunday, April 28, 2013

Walking In Trust: Lessons Learned with my Blind Dog by Gayle M. Irwin


I confess, I procrastinated posting this review long after reading this book because I did not want to say goodbye to the author and her special blind dog Sage!! Walking In Trust was all about the journey of accepting and overcoming not just a dog's physical limitations, but for those who struggle physically, emotionally, or spiritually (that'd be me + you =everyone!!).
                                                                                  
Ms. Irwin had a way of telling a tale and then wove Scripture in a lessons learned type formula. Each chapter included annointed conversation which stimulated each of my senses. I heard the leaves crunch under Sage's feet as her nose sniffed the damp earth in search of a squirrel. I heard the birds chirp outside the window just as Sage did. I smiled knowing Sage enjoyed many years in the warmth of her owner's snuggly buggly sweater. She may not have been able to see - but she knew she was loved. Only an animal lover would understand the special bond that developed between Sage and the author. Therefore, I do recommend this book to any animal lover whether in search of Scripture or not - this book blessed me and reminded me not to complain about the little things in life that often seem to be so big at the time.

Sage was an overcomer! She was an inspiration and so filled with life. I loved hearing her adventures and how she taught others about learning to overcome challenges. The author's style was warming and personal. The setting was enjoyable as it was clear the author loved not only animals, but her husband and the great outdoors.

Possible spoiler alert: I cried with Ms. Irwin as she said goodbye to her best forever friend and I teared up long after reading the last chapter. I thought of my own dear 19 year, 7 months young dog Karamel, whose heart fought to beat on Valentine's Day five years ago xoxo. 

Purchase Walking in Trust today www.cladach.com! After laughing, crying, smiling and then some more tears - -  pass this gift to someone you love. I was blessed and continue to be blessed by Sage's journey. I pray we all come to love and be loved by a "Sage" - at least once in a lifetime. That is my prayer.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Cladach Publishing as part of their  book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Working Women of the Bible by Susan DiMickele



 This Bible Study/devo style book was anointed! First of all, the intro explained that this was not going to be one of those trendy "feel good" Bible study books. The author explained that she was not claiming to be a theologian or "expert" or "God help" guru (my words) but would come alongside the working woman and encourage her to look to the women of the Bible for inspiration.

Author Susan DiMickele shared that yes, women are called to follow Jesus, but she also threw out a quite relatable question on page 13, "Could somebody just please show me how it's supposed to be done?" I related to her question. So often as Christians, we just point out something for someone to do. Our words are many and it would be so easy to just show someone the way! Lead by example. I appreciated her candid struggle with not being shown how to do something new. Her question inspired me to do more than just talking about how to do something.

Thus the central theme of the entire book. She pointed working women to the working women of the Bible as our mentors. Interesting to me was the explanation of the two types of prostitution back in the days of Rahab. Who knew one type was accepted more so (ritual) vs. commercial, which was not as preferable of a way to "make a living" as a ritual prostitute was back then.

There were so many interesting facts I learned from reading Working Women of the Bible. One of them was found on page 123 in which the author stated, "Esther is like a glow stick - you can't turn her off." I appreciate this visual and how Esther also seemed to me to be a bit of an Energizer Bunny with regard to the King. It was the way in which the author explained in context the life of each woman mentioned and the challenge which led to the underpinnings (faith and mission combined) of each working woman which allowed each story to stick in my brain cells. I have never looked at any of these women in the way in which the author shared  with such attention on history and context. For these reasons I announced at the beginning of this review that this book truly was anointed. It truly was life changing for me.

The author stepped aside and was the vessel not the star in each chapter. The working woman in each chapter (as well as Jesus in the last chapter!) was the star. Lastly, I appreciated on page 160 learning the difference between worry and ponder. Also, "We have much to gain from Lydia's style. Many of us expect Christian women to be culturally insulated- even dull and boring. We've bought into a lie that we lack spiritual depth if we like to shop or wear leopard-skin pants or paint our toenails bright red. Even worse, some career women think they have to give up their style first in order to follow Christ. I once heard a pastor refer to this myth as the "second conversion." Once new Christians come to faith, they think they have to conform to a set of "Christian" cultural norms. They have to dress a certain way, attend certain church functions, and abstain from certain activities. It's all rather exhausting. I'm not buying it. And neither is Lydia...." (page 191).

Applause!

My only one eensy beensy criticism is that I did come across several editing oversights throughout the book. I would not have mentioned this in my review but the last typo on page 191 could not be overlooked. The author mentioned a "shrinking violent." I bring this fact up because here in South Florida where there is a large Spanish speaking population in our Bible studies, this comment no doubt would have been confusing as the term "shrinking violet" (with the language barrier as slang statements often have to be explained) may have been questioned, but to not have the correct term to begin with, the entire point may be lost on the reader.

Every church serious about mentoring women according to the Bible's standards should buy this book for their Bible study. Women need women and this Bible study would be excellent in a group study situation as the author is so relatable to the working Christian woman. We all need Titus women in our lives and this book contains many!

Purchase: http://www.bible.acu.edu/leafwood/pg.asp?ID=196  and to learn more about the author please visit her blog http://www.susandimickele.com/

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Leafwood Publishers as part of their  book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

Are you a manufacturer of a product or currently market a service? Christina will review it! Email christina@wordsofgrace.info with product name, description and manufacturer's suggested retail price along with any other information relative to said product. You will receive a response via email within two weeks if product will be reviewed. Please note not all products will be considered reviewable. Please do not send products without prior consent. Note: Products sent for review will not be returned. Product submission authorizes consent for said product to remain in sole possession of recipient. No monies shall be exchanged for product submission nor permission granted for reviews prior to submission. Reviews shall remain effective and in full force at sole discretion of blog administrator and/or authors related to http://www.christinawillreviewit.blogspot.com.