Have you heard? Lottie Dolls "Schools Out Limited Offer" of Buy 2 Get 1 Free (International Offer - ENDS July 31)

Lottie Schools Out limited offer; so, this means 3 Lottie Dolls for the price of 2 (cheapest Lottie Doll or accessory free, that’s a total of 33% off the entire purchase!). This is perfect for parents, grandparents, guardians, gift buyers who have Summer birthday parties coming up  or who just want to stock up some Lottie’s in advance of Christmas or Back to School!

Code works across all of the Lottie collection, and is for use on the Arklu/Lottie official Amazon stores only (official links below!)

Here's how it works! 

• Arklu US Store Amazon Link
• Arklu UK & EU Amazon Link
• Use code JULY342D (dolls) or JULY342O (accessories) at Amazon (not Lottie.com) checkout from official Arklu/Lottie stores only.
• Cheapest Lottie Doll or accessory is free item, dolls and accessories cannot be combined for the offer.
• Offer applicable to be used across entire Lottie Doll and accessory collection, every product is included in this short-term exclusive offer.
• Offer ends July 31st 2015 (short promotion window)
• Stargazer Lottie and Fossil Hunter Lottie (Gold Collection) are included, and are at the higher price of €24.99, $24.99 & £19.99

Want to know what Chat With Vera thinks about Lottie Dolls? Click here to read my review!

Questions about this super deal? Contact them @ info@arklu.com

Find Lottie on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lottiedolls

Twitter: www.twitter.com/@lottie_dolls

See Lottie in action: https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialLottieDolls

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/lottiedolls

Instagram: https://instagram.com/lottie_dolls/

DISCLOSURE: This is a courtesy article. No compensation of any type was received to share this information with Chat With Vera readers.

Wrinkle Smoothing Cream by Anaiti ~ A Cosmetic Alternative to Botox [Anti-Aging, Anti-Wrinkle Skin Care Product with Hyaluronic Acid (HA) + Argireline + Matrixyl {Review}

As can be seen in the picture, this is a white, creamy product. As with other facial creams you apply it after cleansing the skin. I found it takes very, very little. Too much and it leaves a white "film" on the skin, though this eventually dries or absorbs. So "a little dab will do you" certainly holds true with this product making it go a long way for you.

Usually hyaluronic acid products come in the form of a liquid dispensed from a bottle with a dropper or pump. However, this product serves as serum and cream. The directions provided by Anaiti say that if your skin is dry, you can also apply another moisturizer after applying the Anaiti Wrinkle Smoothing Cream. Though my skin is not "young" skin, it is not necessarily dry. I did not, however, use another moisturizer on top of the Anaiti. After applying this product, I waited a couple of minutes for it to dry or absorb into the skin and then applied makeup (foundation, etc.). This works very nicely.

Is it a miracle product? Alas, there really are not any true miracles out there in the form of creams, lotions, serums. However, the miracle comes in choosing products that have an impact on the skin and using them to stave off the effects of our environment and of the simple fact that we age as the days and years roll along. The Anaiti Wrinkle Smoothing Cream is a good choice for taking good care of your skin. 

My suggestion: If you're staying home and going "makeup free," why not apply your serums, creams, etc. more than once or twice a day. Freshen your face with additional applications. I find this makes my skin feel good and I believe it helps me take better care of it. I always apply quality skincare products daily. 

Ingredients (information from Anaiti website) - Breakthrough skin care products made with effective, naturally derived ingredients is Anaiti’s specialty. Its Advanced Line and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream for Celebrity Skin is formulated with three of today’s most effective anti-aging, anti-wrinkle components. 

1. Powerful humectant Hyaluronic Acid is one of the best moisturizers on the market, working on all skin types to create smooth, supple and hydrated skin. 
2. Complementing Hyaluronic Acid is Argireline, the clinically proven peptide that reduces wrinkles by 30 percent. Argireline, or acetyl hexapeptide-3, inhibits facial muscle neurotransmitters, relaxing the face, smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles and creating a safe, compelling alternative to Botox. 
3. The final powerhouse ingredient, Matrixyl, nearly doubles the skin’s production of collagen, improving elasticity, firmness and plumpness. Often lauded as one of the best day creams available, Advanced Line and Wrinkle Smoothing Cream is cruelty-free, made only at certified facilities in Canada and contains absolutely no paraben.
4. WHAT RESULTS WILL YOU SEE? - Increased skin hydration/elasticity - Less pigmentation/skin redness/visible wrinkles - Smaller pores 

Made in certified facilities in Canada. Cruelty-free, non-toxic and paraben-free, using naturally-derived ingredients.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary product to facilitate this review at no cost to me. I was not compensated for this review. Opinions are my own, alone.

The Wood's Edge by Lori Benton

About the book: The 1757 New York frontier is home to the Oneida tribe and to British colonists, yet their feet rarely walk the same paths.

On the day Fort William Henry falls, Major Reginald Aubrey is beside himself with grief. His son, born that day, has died in the arms of his sleeping wife. When Reginald comes across an Oneida mother with newborn twins, one white, one brown, he makes a choice that will haunt the lives of all involved. He steals the white baby and leaves his own child behind. Reginald’s wife and foundling daughter, Anna, never suspect the truth about the boy they call William, but Reginald is wracked by regret that only intensifies with time, as his secret spreads its devastating ripples.

When the long buried truth comes to light, can an unlikely friendship forged at the wood’s edge provide a way forward? For a father tormented by fear of judgment, another by lust for vengeance. For a mother still grieving her lost child. For a brother who feels his twin’s absence, another unaware of his twin’s existence. And for Anna, who loves them both—Two Hawks, the mysterious Oneida boy she meets in secret, and William, her brother. As paths long divided collide, how will God direct the feet of those who follow Him?

My thoughts: Lori Benton's books are always good reads that are packed with interest because she does quality research for the setting of her stories. Since I love history and reading about historical events, times, places, and people, The Wood's Edge was right at the top of the list for tweaking my interest. The interaction between Native Americans, Indians, and the settlers has always intrigued me.

In The Wood's Edge Benton captures the reality of captured whites (settlers) being immersed in the world of the Indians (Native Americans). When a set of twins is born during the midst of an attack by the French on a British fort to a white woman who seemingly is Indian, the story begins. One child seems white and the other Indian.

As the story evolves, we move into the conflict between the settlers (Colonists) and the British Crown. We see various interactions between settlers and Indians. But mostly we see how moving toward war and moving into emotional conflict as white world meets Indian world with the tumultuous and emotionally charged family dynamics factored into the mix. This is a heart-wrenching story of a time and people that shaped America.

A don't miss this one read!

 Click here to download chapter one of The Wood's Edge.

Meet the author: Lori Benton was raised east of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by early American history going back three hundred years. Her novels transport readers to the eighteenth century, where she brings to life the Colonial and early Federal periods of American history. When she isn’t writing, reading, or researching, Lori enjoys exploring the Oregon wilderness with her husband. She is the author of Burning Sky, recipient of three Christy Awards, and The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review by Blogging for Books book review program on behalf of WaterBrook Press and the author. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

"Out and About: A First Book of Poems" by Shirley Hughes [Review & Giveaway]

About the book: In this joyous collection of poems, Katie and her little brother, Olly, are ready for whatever each day offers—sunshine, wind, rain, mist, or snow. From the happy sights and sounds of the beach to the quiet beauty of leaves in a rain puddle, this exuberant volume captures to perfection the everyday wonder of being out and about.

My thoughts: From time to time, I come across books written and illustrated in such a way that my heart is warmed and blessed. They might not necessarily be religious in content or from a Christian publisher. Yet, they are a blessing to look at and to absorb the words. Such is the case in my experience with Out and About: A First Book of Poems by Shirley Hughes.

Let’s just say I am charmed. I am delighted. The sheer sweetness of the pictures and sweet poetic thoughts draws and captures my attention and will that of the child as well. The watercolor and pen illustrations are detailed with facial expressions and scenes of the most pleasant of atmospheres. The colors soft yet vibrant. There is a wealth of experiences on the pages inhabited by these visual delights.

The poems are short, expressive and capture each of the seasons and experiences as the child is “Out and About” the neighborhood or down at the seaside. It has been said by Philip Pullman, “Shirley Hughes is a national treasure.” How true. Families will treasure this delightful book and probably pass it along to future generations.

“Waves pouring in

To a sand-castle moat.

Mend the defenses!

Now we’re afloat!

Water’s for splashing,

Sand is for play.

A day by the sea

Is the best kind of day.”

Wet

Dark clouds,

Rain again,

Rivers on the

Misted pane.

Wet umbrellas

In the street.

Running noises,

Damp feet.

GIVEAWAY 

1 Copy of "Out and About: A First Book of Poems"
Begins July 5 & ENDS July 23 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 
Open to USA & Canada addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
About the author: Shirley Hughes has illustrated more than two hundred children’s books and is one of the world’s best-loved writers for children. She has won the Kate Greenaway Medal twice and has been awarded an OBE for her distinguished service to children’s literature. In 2007, her book Dogger was voted the U.K.’s favorite Kate Greenaway Medal–winning book of all time. Shirley Hughes lives in London.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy  by Candlewick Press to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I received no compensation for this review.

Bedtime Devotions with Jesus My Daily Devotional for Kids By Johnny Hunt Published by Thomas Nelson

About the book: Bedtime Devotions with Jesus is a collection of prayers and devotions written by pastors, pastor's wives, children's ministers, and other church leaders. In this book are valuable lessons on such topics as thankfulness, obedience, trusting God, being kind, loving others, and many more. God's Word comes alive using simple language, and the devotions are featured with delightful illustrations of teddy bears. This book will teach children ages 4-8 the value and joy of spending time with God every day.

Each devotional includes a scripture, a brief devotional reading, a prayer, and a meaningful takeaway that helps children build a strong foundation of faith. This is the first children's book in the hugely popular MyDaily™ Devotional line. Devotionals for adults in the MyDaily series have sold more than 173,000 copies.

My thoughts:  As our children were growing up, we tried to instill in them a love of God's Word, Jesus, and God. We used Bible story books, the Bible, songs, and prayers to do this. At that point in time, there was not the rich variety available to parents there is today. So today's parents have a grand opportunity to instill reverence for God and Jesus and a love for His Word using many tools.

After reading through the content of Bedtime Devotions with Jesus My Daily Devotional for Kids, I am grateful that publishers and authors are rallying to provide material that can be used with the very young child. Though this book is designed for the age 4-8 child, I really think it best for the age 2-5 child. Especially if the family is active in church.

The Bible quotations are from the International Children's Bible. Frankly, I prefer the good and reliable King James Version. Children can learn verses straight from the King James Version at an early age. However, I think key to this particular devotional book for young children is to instill reverence for God, establish a pattern of nightly devotionals, and learn lessons on obedience, God's love, trust, forgiveness, etc. Using this book can fulfill this purpose.

I think the goal is worthy and the purpose achieved in publishing this book. I believe that parents should consider if they want to use it with the International Children's Bible as the source for quotes.

About the Author: Dr. Johnny Hunt is the senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Woodstock, Georgia. He is a sought after speaker who holds conferences each year for men, senior adults, and youth. He is the president of Timothy Barnabas Ministry designed to encourage pastors and their wives. Devotionals by Johnny Hunt include The One Year Devotional Prayer Book, The One Year Devotional Prayer Book Vol. 2, Pathway to Discipleship, and Walk Through the Word.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the BookLook Blog Review program on behalf of Thomas Nelson Publishers. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

Murder Freshly Baked (Book 3 in An Amish Village Mystery Series) by Vannetta Chapman [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9780310322177  

About the book: When delicious baked goods become lethal, it's time to find a killer. Kindness is a virtue Meanness is a sin Better watch your bakery pies For poison I've slipped in

The Amish Artisan Village in Middlebury, Indiana, has been decorated with every color of balloon and flower for the Race for a Cure. As manager of the Village, Amber Bowman is thrilled to see the turnout--and relieved to have something to distract her from the "Poison Poet"--an individual who has been sending notes containing bad poetry to warn of poisoned baked goods.

Then Ryan Duvall crosses the finish line of the race--and falls down dead, murdered in broad daylight. But who did it? And why? The police suspect Preston Johnston, but Amber refuses to believe her employee could do such a thing.

Amber once again looks to her young Amish friend Hannah Troyer to help her find the killer--and to determine if it's the same person leaving the cryptic poems and pies. Can they help the police before the Poison Poet strikes again? Both Amber and Hannah will need to draw on their faith as they fight to preserve the peaceful community they've built at the Amish Artisan Village.

My thoughts: In this third book in the Amish Artisan Village series, Vannetta Chapman brings us back into the presence of the employees of the Village and their interactions as another unthinkable event occurs in this peaceful setting - murder.

The Amish are a peace loving and peaceful group who set themselves apart from the modern world by shunning many modern conveniences. They live by a strict code based on Biblical principles. In the Village, there is close mingling of regular folks and Amish as they work, visit, and shop the various stores and restaurants in the Village.

Two Amish couples are looking forward to their soon to occur wedding. A returned veteran struggles with PTSD. The Village manager becomes embroiled in threats seemingly directed at her. A complicated mixture of situations that need resolution.

To me the highlight of this book is how Preston, the veteran, deals with his traumatic experiences of flashbacks that are violent. The entrance of Mocha, a service dog that is provided to Preston is interesting and lovable.

This is a stand alone story, but it would be more interesting for the reader to have previously read books one and two since references to those stories occur. I always enjoy a Vannetta Chapman book and can heartily recommend it.

GIVEAWAY 

1 Copy of Murder Freshly Baked
Begins July 2 & ENDS July 22 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 
Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by the author to facilitate this review. Opinions are just mine. I was not compensated for this review.

The Day Is Waiting By Don Freeman Bestselling illustrator and creator of Corduroy. Words by Linda Zuckerman

About the book: Don Freeman, the creator of Corduroy, was one of the most beloved and popular author/illustrators of picture books for children. After Freeman’s death in 1978, colleagues and his wife decided to use his never before published artwork and make a commemorative book using his wonderful illustrations. Paired with Linda Zuckerman's thoughtful rhyming text, The Day Is Waiting takes readers on a tour of our big, wide world and reminds us that no matter how far we roam, we always have home to come back to.

This classic tale is imbued with Freeman’s gentle humor, spontaneity, and his appreciation of the variety and complexity of human experiences, creating a book that children will enjoy reading again and again.

My thoughts: Charming! Sweet! Invoking thoughtful consideration on the part of the child and guidance by the parent as they consider these few lines of rhyming text. The illustrations are from a collection of Don Freeman's never before published art that was selected by his wife for The Day Is Waiting and Linda Zuckerman has given life to these illustrations with a few choice words.

The child's thoughtful consideration and imagination is the goal of the book. Take care that the scant text doesn't throw you off whereby you miss the golden opportunity for a child to think, to consider, to discover. It is there to be sought and found.

Published by ZonderKidz which is a Christian publishing company, there is really no "Christian" teaching in the book with the exception of a verse of Scripture from the Old Testament on the publisher's information page at the end of the book. The book is gently sweet and suitable for any reader audience.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review through the BookLook Blogger Review Program on behalf of ZonderKidz.