Natural Zensations Bar Soaps [Review & Giveaway - USA]

The "new kid on the block" is a brand new online webstore for natural soaps whose Grand Opening was October 10 - Natural Zensations. Their inventory of natural soaps are environmentally positive in that the ingredients are safe, natural, contain no artificial substances, and actually good for your skin. And... Made in the USA. Also, and this is quite important, NO PLASTICS are used for packaging. Their mission.....

“We have embarked on a personal mission to make a positive impact on our earth for future generations. Every step, however small, is significant. By creating an environmentally friendly soap, we believe that together we can be part of the solution instead of the pollution.“ (be sure you read the "Our Story" page - https://www.naturalzensations.com/our-story)

Their first soap was the Zage On Me. 

BODY BAR SOAP – ZAGE ON ME

Sparked by open and freshness, this body bar blend includes sage, lemongrass, and spearmint essential oils. This body bar soap is design for superior lather and skin feel. This soap is popular with both men and women.

Ingredients: saponified oils of sunflower*, coconut*, palm*, and safflower* (with retained glycerin); water; essential oils of sage, lavandin, lemongrass, and spearmint; calendula petals; rosemary extract. * ingredients marked with an asterisk are certified organic, $12.00

 

Last evening I used the "Lavender" bar soap for my bath. It lathers beautifully and is such a good feeling soap on my skin. After bathing, my skin did not feel taunt or dried out. Very positive experience.

BODY BAR SOAP – LAVENDER

Ingredients: saponified oils of sunflower* and coconut*; water; vegetable glycerin*; essential oils of orange, lavandin, and tangerine; rosemary extract. * ingredients marked with an asterisk are certified organic $12.00 each

BODY BAR SOAP – PEPPERMINT

This fragrant minty soap is going to one of my daughters who is currently having a love affair with minty bath products. What joy this will bring to her!

Ingredients: saponified oils of sunflower*, coconut*, palm*, and safflower* (with retained glycerin); water; essential oil of peppermint; wheat grass*, barley grass*, peppermint leaf*; menthol; rosemary extract. * ingredients marked with an asterisk are certified organic, $12.00 each

Here is an opportunity to take a little off the cost. They are currently on sale for $10.00 and here is a code for a bit more off!

Use Discount Code: NATZEN10OFF for 10% off your purchase at https://www.naturalzensations.com NOTE: Purchase is NOT required to enter #giveaway.

GIVEAWAY

Two Soaps: Bold Attraction and Zage on Me

Begins October 23

Ends November 16 at 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received products to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Prize is provided and mailed directly to the winner by Natural Zensations. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Point of Danger (Triple Threat #1) by Irene Hannon

My thoughts:  The author, Irene Hannon, never seems to fail to capture the reader's interest at the onset of a book and keep it right to the end.

In Point of Danger the reader is left wondering who the culprit is throughout the book. The danger grows day-by-day in unexpected ways and shows the intent and threat that whoever is behind them poses to Eve Reilly.

Eve Reilly is an intelligent professional woman who hosts a talk show that discusses controversial political, behavioral, and perhaps even environmental subjects. The individuals who listen are for her and many are verbally opposed to her rhetoric. But the question is, are they so opposed to her dialogue that they are willing to delivery a bomb?

The detective assigned to her case is handsome, intelligent, dependable, and seemingly unavailable emotionally. But he is good at his job.

I totally enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next installment in the "Triple Threat" series.

About the book: Radio talk show host Eve Reilly is used to backlash from her pot-stirring on-air commentary and interviews, but now it seems a disgruntled listener is resorting to more than angry words to express their displeasure. When a suspicious package arrives on her doorstep, Eve turns to law enforcement for help.

Police detective Brent Lange can't find any evidence to link the string of unsettling incidents that follows, but he's convinced they're connected. As the harassment grows more menacing, it becomes clear someone wants Eve's voice silenced--permanently.

But unless he can track down her foe, fast, the gutsy woman who is willing to take risks for what she believes--and who is swiftly winning his heart--may not survive.

Bestselling author and three-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon is back with a heart-stopping new series that will have you turning pages well into the night. 

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Revell Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah by Erica S. Perl & illustrated by Shahar Kober [Review & Giveaway]

We are again looking at a children's book featuring the Jewish Hanukkah celebration. 

My thoughts:  This is a sweet little story of a Jewish family who has just moved into a new apartment. The boxes with all their things are still to be emptied.

But Hanukkah is about to begin and they need their menorah and the candles that go into it. But they can't find it. So they begin to improvise.

Each night a candle is lit and there is a special activity or food for that night. There is symbolism in each night's candle lighting and the activity or food commemorating the Hanukkah celebration.

Since they can't find the items of food or other materials to observe each night's celebration, the children run up and down the stairs to the various apartments, meeting their neighbors who in turn provide a variety of items so the family can have a Hanukkah Celebration. Not quite authentic but definitely memorable.

A nice story about a Jewish holiday and its significance to the family. A nice story of new neighbors being kind and helpful. A nice story of children content to make-do and not to whine.

A good read to learn a bit about a Jewish holiday even if you're not Jewish.

About the book: It shows children and reminds parents that, like the shamash, individual people have the power to spark change and brighten the lives of those around them. Its celebration of unsung helpers is particularly timely, as we honor the healthcare and other essential workers who are risking their lives during this unprecedented time.

It’s Hanukkah, and Max and Rachel are excited to light the menorah in their family’s new apartment. But, unfortunately, their Hanukkah box is missing. So now they have no menorah, candles, dreidels, or, well, anything! Luckily, their neighbors are happy to help, offering thoughtful and often humorous stand-in items each night. And then, just as Hanukkah is about to end, Max and Rachel, inspired by the shamash (“helper”) candle, have a brilliant idea: they’re going to celebrate the Ninth Night of Hanukkah as a way to say thanks to everyone who’s helped them!

This is not only a heartwarming and fun story, it’s also an invitation to join in a beautiful new Hanukkah tradition: celebrating a ninth night with new neighbors and friends! The book includes a guide to celebrate your own “Shamash night” – even if you’re not Jewish.

Perl was inspired to write The Ninth Night of Hanukkah (Sterling Children's Books; 9/15/20; ISBN: 978-1454940883; Hardcover $16.95; Ages 3+; 40 pages) by a conversation with her daughters in which they questioned why the shamash wasn't given its own (ninth) night of honor after spending eight nights helping the other candles. Hanukkah is the perfect time to show appreciation for those who help others and the world at large, and if it means keeping the menorah and the latke pan out for one more night to do so -- well, who can argue with that?

About the creators: Erica S. Perl is the author of many books for children, including All Three Stooges (the 2018 National Jewish Book Award winner, and a Sydney Taylor Honor), When Life Gives You OJ (Sydney Taylor Notable), and Goatilocks and the Three Bears. She lives in Washington, DC, with her family. Learn more about her on Twitter @ericaperl or at www.ericaperl.com. Shahar Kober is a freelance illustrator and art director who lives in Israel. He graduated from Shenkar College of Design in 2005. He illustrates children's books, and contributes illustrations to newspapers, magazines, websites, and animation projects. You can find him at www.skober.com.

🕎 GIVEAWAY 🕎

Begins October 15

Ends November 3 at 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA & CANADA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided and shipped directly to the winner by publisher or publicist.

Children's picture books about Jewish holidays, Purim and Hanukkah [Review & Giveaway - USA

We're looking at a couple of books from Wisdom Tales publishing company that are distinctively Jewish. These are children's books about the celebration of Jewish holidays. I believe that our Christian heritage is rooted in Jesus, but also in those who went before and are brought alive to us in the Old Testament which is also a history of the Jewish peoples. 

Children need to know that others sometimes believe differently and have different holidays. Children won't be confused if taught correctly but will grow to understand and appreciate these differences.

The Dreidel That Wouldn't Spin: A Toyshop Tale of Hanukkah by Martha Seif Simpson, illustrated by Durga Yael Bernhard

  

My thoughts: In The Dreidel That Wouldn't Spin: A Toyshop Tale of Hanukkah the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah approaches and the toyshop owner (in the "old country") has sold all his dreidels.  A dreidel is a spinning toy similar to a "top" and was a beloved toy of Jewish children. While the story teaches virtually nothing about the holiday itself, it does teach how miracles cannot be bought.

The book's back pages include information regarding the decorations which are letters or symbols that are part of the dreidel game and are part of how you play the dreidel game. 

The story itself is of how the dreidel is sold to selfish, demanding individuals and when they couldn't get it to spin, they returned it to the toyshop for a refund of what they paid. Finally, the toyshop owner gives it to a kind, sweet boy for whom the dreidel spins beautifully.

A lovely story.

About the book: This dreidel doesn't work! the father had cried. What do you mean? How can a dreidel not work? the shopkeeper asked. It was certainly the most beautiful spinning top the shopkeeper had ever seen, with magical golden letters on its sides. But it just would not spin for two spoiled children who insisted on owning it! Later, the shopkeeper decides to try it one last time: would it spin for another child, one who carried the true spirit of Hanukkah in his heart? In this beautiful holiday story by award-winning author Martha Simpson, and brought to life by the imaginative illustrations of award-winning illustrator D. Yael Bernhard, the happiness and joy of the Hanukkah miracle will warm the heart of young and old alike with its simple message: wonders still occur for those who are ready for them. Included is a useful appendix that explains Hanukkah, and an explanation on how to play the dreidel game."

  

Esther's Gragger: A Toyshop Tale of Purim by Martha Seif Simpson, Durga Yael Bernhard (Contributor)

 

My thoughts:  The noise of the graggers being played with by shoppers and children is really bothering the toyshop owner. Yet he still purchases additional graggers from the peddler.

After receiving the newer graggers from the peddler, a young boy hurryingly enters the toyshop and selects a gragger beautifully painted that has Queen Esther's name on it to give his sister who is also named Esther. With some reluctance the shopkeeper agrees not to sell it a few hours so the boy can return with adequate funds to purchase it.

Soon a very large boy arrives and rudely demands he be sold the Queen Esther gragger. When told he can not have that one, he bellows loudly and slams his hand on the counter demanding that specific gragger for himself. The shopkeeper is adamant to not sell it to this rude customer telling him that he is not welcome in the toyshop.

The young boy returns and buys the gragger after which the bully confronts him and tried to get the toy from the sister who by now is holding the gragger.

The story ends well with shouting and the noise of the graggers driving the bully away. A well written story about the celebration of Purim which is the celebration of Queen Esther's defiance of Hamman in Jewish history when Hamman sought to rid the kingdom of Jews. Hamman was defeated.

The story of Esther is important in the Biblical context for Christians as well as it is rooted in Jewish history. Purim is a Jewish holiday commemorating Esther. The back pages of this children's book provide non-fiction information about Purim and graggers. 

About the book: Young Esther is given a special gragger (a noisemaker) to celebrate the fun, and sometimes raucous, Jewish festival of Purim. An older boy bullies her to get it for himself, but Esther reacts with great courage and intelligence, her actions reflecting the biblical story on which Purim is based. The lively cast of characters quibble and carouse in a bygone world of warmth, surprise, and generosity. There is even a parade for children only. The appendix helps readers understand the history of Purim, how it is celebrated today, what a "gragger" is, and how to make a simple noisemaker. Following the award-winning The Dreidel That Wouldn't Spin, author Martha Seif Simpson and illustrator D. Yael Bernhard have again created a new toyshop tale of playful language and images that hint at ancient roots and hidden meanings, which are just waiting for young readers to find. This is a tale ideal for reading aloud for fun, but also for learning.

GIVEAWAY

Begins October 12

Ends November 6 @ 12:01 a.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received copies to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and sent directly to winner by publisher, publicist, or author/s.

Give a blessing to someone with the Butterfly Box [Review & Giveaway]

Just what is a "Butterfly Box"? Well, it is a delightful, inspiring, encouraging, fun-to-receive gift to someone you care about or to yourself. Read on.....

Life is busy, and it can be hard to find the time each day to connect with Christ. Butterfly Box is here to help! We thoughtfully curate a themed box each month to help reclaim those quiet moments with God, build your intimacy with Christ, and live out your faith in the world around you! 

Each month's box is designed to illustrate a biblical theme and encourage spiritual growth.

• 5 to 6 items such as jewelry, artwork, books, décor, personal pampering items, faith sharing cards and other specialty items
• All items are carefully chosen and undergo a rigorous selection process
• Products are faith-based or support small Christian businesses.

My thoughts: I received one of these lovely boxes and it is jam-packed with goodies. A sweet little bracelet. A journal. A devotional book on prayer by Stormie Omartian. A couple of treats. This is all packed neatly and beautifully in a box and shipped. 

I plan to gift mine to someone I love. What about you? What about sending a token of love and encouragement. You can opt for a one-month gift or subscriptions of more months. You set the amount and they don't renew beyond that. Really safe subscription plan and just a joyful way to bring some blessings into someone's day-to-day life.

This 6-month giveaway has a value of nearly $200.00 and you don't want to miss out. 

CLICK HERE FOR GIVEAWAY 
Ends Oct. 30, 2020

Transform. Renew. Pursue.

​The Subscription Box That Encourages Women In Their Faith.

Every month, a different themed box full of 4-6 hand selected top quality items is curated. 

🦋Inspiring Books, Devotionals or Journals

🦋Christian Jewelry

🦋Scripture Decor

🦋Theme Related Gifts

🦋Self-Care Items (Soaps, Lotion, Candles) 

Each month's box is designed to illustrate a biblical theme and encourage spiritual growth containing 5 to 6 items such as jewelry, artwork, books, décor, personal pampering items, faith sharing cards, and other specialty items. All items are carefully chosen and undergo a rigorous selection process. Products are faith-based or support small Christian businesses.

COUPON CODE:  10% off!  WELCOME10 - Click Here to purchase

DISCLOSURE: I received the pictured Butterfly Box to facilitate a giveaway. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaway is hosted by Butterfly Box and publicist who are solely responsible for winner selection and prize distribution.

Do your "Happy Dance" in some BonAngel Women's Novelty-Funny Socks [Review & Giveaway - USA]

We recently featured the Bonangel men's dress socks and the men's fun, novelty socks. Now it's time for the ladies to have a bit of fun, too. It's time to take the chill off the toesies and have some happy feet sprinting about our day. 

 

The BonAngel sock company (Amazon online store) has graciously offered  an opportunity for Chat With Vera readers to win a set of women's novelty, fun socks. Also, any of their women's novelty/fun socks can be purchased with a 30% discount code and special link - available only HERE.

Ladies, these fun socks have just enough "cling" for comfortable wear and "stay-put" quality. They will bring out your inner funny side and they are especially cheerful on "down" days. They will bring a bit of fun and joy to days that can be dismal or boring. 

They will be conversation starters. 

The socks are 80% cotton, 15% nylon, and 5% spandex. Just right for comfort, washability, and wearability. 

Not too thick. Not too thin.

Designs are fun and varied. Colors are vibrant. 

It's time to break out of the mold and have a bit of fun. 

This one's for you, the ladies. Here is the opportunity to win a set for yourself. Don't forget, ladies, that they'll feel great on your feet and put a bit of spring in your step, too!

30% Discount code is discoverable only in the Rafflecopter Giveaway Entry below.

Find BonAngel Socks Shop on Amazon - CLICK HERE

GIVEAWAY

2 Winners Each Win

1 Pack Women's Novelty/Funny Crew Socks

Also: Discover 30% Discount Code

Begins October 6

Ends October 28 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a pack of socks for review purposes. Opinions are mine, alone. Winner's socks are provided by BonAngel Socks on Amazon and shipped directly to the winner. I received a small compensation for original posting and images.

BONANGEL CHRISTMAS NOVELTY/FUN SOCKS.....

http://amzla.com/skmrd0hg8oki 

The Plans We Made by Kathryn Cushman & Lauren Beccue [Review & Giveaway]

My thoughts:  What a delightful book! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. 

The authors were skilled in the development of characters with believable personalities, some flaws, some wonderful traits. The conversations were genuine seeming and not contrived. 

The story line was complex but woven so beautifully that this reader could believe it was taking place in my own neighborhood. I loved the contrast of living in Southern California to the Rhode Island area. I loved the decisions characters had to make that were life changing.

I loved the "boys" and their banter. I loved the families. I loved the sweet romance that slowly developed. I grieved over the tragedy of a dreaded cancer diagnosis for a teenager and the way the family supported each other.

Simply stated..... I totally enjoyed this contemporary story.

About the book: When past secrets hold the only key to hope for the future…

Caroline Chapman is reeling from a broken engagement. Determined to start again, she moves cross-country for her dream job of planning events in the historical mansions of Newport, Rhode Island. Just as her life is getting back on track, she gets an email that shakes her very foundations.

Linda Riley’s life looks picture perfect - a wonderful husband, two great kids, involved in church and the community. Then comes the diagnosis that shatters the facade. In order to save her son’s life, she must reveal secrets that can rip everything apart.

Connected by more than painful circumstances, these two women discover a sacred bond. In this beautiful story of love, loss, and the fight for life, Caroline and Linda experience the reality that life doesn’t always go according to The Plans We Made.

About the authors:

Kathryn Cushman graduated with a degree in pharmacy from Samford University. After hanging up her lab coat, she shifted her focus toward writing. Her previous works have received multiple nominations for both the Carol Award and the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award. The Plans We Made is her tenth published novel.

Lauren Beccue graduated from Holy Cross with a BA in English and now lives with her family in Santa Barbara. She writes about faith and family, with an emphasis on agricultural passages of the Bible. This is her first novel.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Also..... Authors' Gift With Purchase....

MAKE YOUR PLANS IN PENCIL! 

Now, go buy your copy of The Plans We Made online or at a local bookstore, then be sure to head to Lauren’s website to claim your bonus freebie!

Make Your Plans in Pencil - The Plans We Made - Proverbs 19:21

Just contact Lauren with your name, address, and where you purchased the book, and she’ll send you a set. That's it! (US only and get 'em while they last.)

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Giveaways hosted by publicist and/or authors who are responsible for distribution of prizes.