Giveaway! (Updated at bottom)

Hi, y'all! Can you believe how much this blog has grown?! I remember when I had 3 followers. THREE! And now I have over 50! So excited!

As a big THANK YOU for being here and sharing my journey, I'm giving away $25 to Target. Yes, Target.

What would you do with $25 at Target? Buy baby things {lots of new bloggy moms-to-be lately!}? A little something for yourself? Books? Starbucks?  Up to you!

Here's how you enter:

Mandatory: Follow this blog via GFC and leave a comment telling me what you'd buy with a $25 Target gift card {one entry}.

Additional: Follow me on Twitter or Pinterest. Tweet, blog, or Facebook post about this giveaway {one comment per entry, please}! Feel free to use this: What would YOU do with $25 to Target from @advntrsnflpflps? Click here to enter: http://iwilltouchthesky.blogspot.com/2012/01/giveaway.html

That's potentially 6 entries!

The giveaway will end on Sunday 1/29/2012 at midnight. The winner will be announced {and e-mailed} on Monday. Good luck to all of you!

UPDATES:

1. Word verification was turned on. Sorry about that, but it's fixed and commenting should be much easier now.

2. There are links to both Pinterest and Twitter on the sidebar!

Link Love and a Winner!

Happy Friday everyone! Did everyone have a good week? I sure did! I submitted my thesis to the university for official review. That means, unless they decide that I have some serious formatting issues, I will have a Master degree in December! Whoop!

 Also, I think I have a winner to announce! The winner of the Made By Jewls Giveaway is:

 

Congrats, Zoe! Check your e-mail!

I'm off to the woods for the weekend {so excited}, but before I go, I thought I'd share a little bit of link love to feature some on-going giveaways. Didn't win this one? Here are some more:

Andrea at Knitty Bitties is sponsoring a giveaway from both her shop and Zinnia Designs.

Gussy is has a killer giveaway on her blog as part of her monthly group sponsor giveaway.

One of my new favorite bloggers/writers, Kayt Sukel, is giving away one advance copy of her book, Dirty Minds on the book's Facebook page.

And, The Shine Project is hosting an AWESOME fundraiser/raffle to support sending low-income youth to college! Very worthy cause!

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend! I have several book reviews coming in {I can't read books fast enough, it seems}, and some more recipes {including one I found on Pinterest for the Gussy's Inspiration Workshop}.

Stay tuned, and if you live in my neck of the woods, enjoy the beautiful weather!

Made by Jewls: Product Review + Giveaway!

Can I confess something? I have wanted some covered button earrings for years. Years, I tell you! But, something always seemed to get in the way; money, didn't find any I liked, too big {I'll explain}. So, when Julianne from Made by Jewls put out a call looking for product testers/reviewers on Twitter, I jumped on it.

Before I go any further, I'm going to let Julianne introduce herself:

"Hi I'm Julianne, the girl behind Made by Jewls. I live in Utah with my husband and two cats. I live and breathe creativity, my husband often says that I can make anything - which totally isn't true but it's nice for him to think that :) . I love making anything from fabric covered button and flower earrings (that I sell in my shop) to crocheted mustaches on a stick. I absolutely love having my own shop on Etsy, it has been one of the best things I've ever done. I'm also a pinterest-a-holic (who isn't?!). You can also find me on twitter, facebook or on my blog. Thank you, Lauren, for hosting a review and giveaway for me and thank you to all her readers for checking out my shop!"

Boy, am I glad I contacted her! Julianne let me pick any two pairs of earrings that I liked, and then she sent them to me. She packaged them extremely well, and look how cute her boxes are!

I chose the You Melt My Heart and Yellow Rose earrings. And, can I say, they. are. so. cute. I just can't stop myself from wearing them and planning what I'm going to wear around them!

They're extremely well made, well-priced, and small. And, I mean that last one in a good way. I have itsy bitsy ears, and larger earrings always look like they're eating my earlobes. These? They give the perfect little accent.

I love them. And I will be ordering more!  And guess what?! One of YOU gets to order some too, because Julianne has graciously agreed to give one lucky reader $20 to her shop! That is just in time for some of her adorable Halloween earrings!

You can enter in the following ways:

Mandatory Entry:
Visit Julianne's Shop and tell me what your favorite pair of earrings are!

Extra Entries:
Follow both mine and Julianne's blog! {one entry}
Follow her on Twitter, Pinterest, or Facebook {one entry}
Blog, tweet, or Facebook about this giveaway! Feel free to use this: I just entered to win $20 to @madebyjewls shop on @advntrsnflpflps's blog! {one entry}

Please leave a comment for each thing you do {possible total is 4}; the winner will be announced next week! Good luck everyone!

**Blogging with integrity: I was compensated for this review with two pairs of earrings. However, all opinions are my own and I plan to spend some of my own money on more earrings soon!

Book Review: Mistress of the Revolution + Giveaway!

So, I'm trying something new here {hooray!}. I have tons of books. Tons. I've gotten to the point where I just don't have room to keep them all, because my books take up five bookshelves. Five. In a one bedroom, that's a whole lotta bookshelves. And, normally, I send it through Paperback Swap, but I have so many credits on that site, and well, I think it will be MUCH more fun to give it away. What's the fun of reading great books if you don't share? Right?

So, this is a book review, but at the end, I'm going to give the book away! Check out the end of this post for details!

{Source: Barnes and Noble}

Onto the review:

Mistress of the Revolution details the life of a poor noblewoman, Gabrielle de Montserrat during the time of the French Revolution. Told in a memoir style, this story leads us from her childhood spent at a teaching convent, through several marriages and lovers, and to her exile from France in England.

The story begins with Gabrielle recounting her transition from childhood into womanhood. She is removed from the teaching convent and is brought to live with her brother, mother, and sister. After a love affair in which she commits to marry a country doctor with whom she has fallen madly in love, she is forced to marry a local nobleman who is twice her senior and extremely abusive. After his untimely death, Gabrielle moves to Paris, and we follow not only her story, but part of the story of the French Revolution.

I don't want to tell you anymore of the plot, so as not to give away the ending, but I will say that there a bunch of ups and downs in this story. Gabrielle is arrested several times for the crime of being "nobility," knowing someone who did something to offend the revolutionists, etc. The author, Catherine Delors, does an excellent job of conveying the uncertainty of that era. She also does an excellent job of showing how people change, re-think what they believe about morality, and generally change based on their own experience.

That being said, I wish that there were not so many historical details in the novel. At times the novel moved a bit slowly and that was due to the plethora of historical factoids inserted into the text. While history and details are entirely important in historical fiction, there is generally a way to put those in without being so bland about it.

Despite that, this is a wonderful first novel, and the slow parts weren't enough to make me put the book down for long. A little patience in the first few chapters is rewarded with a tale of love, tension, uncertainty, and courage. If you are a fan of historical fiction, this is a wonderful novel for you to read. Be warned: although there are many facts in this novel, we do only get Gabrielle's perspective of the revolution. But her perspective makes for a great story.

So, how can you win this lovely novel?

Mandatory Entry:
Leave a comment below telling something good you've read recently.


Extra Entries {leave a comment for each, below}:
Follow me via Google Friend Connect
Follow me via Twitter: @AdvntrsNFlpFlps
Tweet/blog/post on Facebook about this giveaway. Feel free to use this: I just entered to win Mistress of the Revolution by Catherine Delors on AdvntrsNFlpFlps' blog!

Good luck!

Also, did you know that Gussy is giving away FOUR of her headbands? Are you serious?!

And the winner is....

First, I want to give a BIG thank you to everyone who donated, or thought about donating. Even if you didn't enter to win, thank you for coming and viewing this page and the awareness page. If you ever feel like you're in a position to help these, and any other survivors of disasters, please use these resources. They're a good place to start.

Second, THANK YOU to everyone who donated something for this giveaway. Between comments, and matching donations, we're giving over $100 to the relief efforts. We couldn't have done it without you! To show your love, please visit Gussy, Diana, and Liz. I could not have done this without them.

And, without further ado, our winner is:

And that is:

Congratulations, Sarah! You have 48 hours to e-mail me at lreichstein {at} gmail {dot} com so I can hook you up with all of our sponsors!

Regular posting will resume tomorrow morning. Are you READY?!

Texas Wildfire Giveaway Fundraiser! (Giveaway closed)

Hello friends! Saturday, I told you about what is going on in my neck of the woods, and how much we need your help! Today is the day that you can help!

I have a fabulous giveaway lined up for you!

First up is Gussy, who responded right away to my e-mail for help!

She writes:

Hi there -- my name is Maggie Whitley and I'm the owner & designer of Gussy Sews. I spend a lot of time working on my blog and my shop, both are my dream jobs! On my blog you'll find updates on my handmade shop, tips on how I left my day job about 15 months ago to focus on Gussy Sews, plus different prompts/projects that help build a handmade community of inspiration & adventuring. Interested in what fills the "shelves" of my shop? All sorts of sassy, girly, colorful accessories: *new* camera strap slipcovers, tote bags (3 different sizes), zipped pouches, eReader cases, headbands -- all sporting my signature ruffle. 

{Nook/Kindle case}

{Market Tote}

{Camera Strap Cover}

 How adorable are all of these? I personally own a market tote {and I am in L-O-V-E!} which I get compliments on all.the.time. You will not regret making a donation to win some of her high-quality, handmade products! I have a Gussy wish-list that is pretty long.

Gussy has generously donated a $50 shop credit to the lucky winner!

Next we have miss Liz from the Blue Eyed Owl.

She writes:

Hi, I’m Liz. I am the author of The Blue Eyed Owl, a blog about all things vintage, handmade and my life as mom, wife and indie business owner. I run an online vintage and handmade boutique on Etsy with retail space at The Main Street Antique Mall near my home in Mesa, AZ.

My heart goes out to everyone who has been affected by the wildfires in Texas. My family in Austin has been sending pictures and updating us on the damage, it is just devastating. Living in Arizona, I am no
stranger to wildfires. Our family cabin has been threatened several times and I have see the destruction first had. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you Texas!

Isn't she the sweetest? And her shop is pretty sweet too! I, for one, would love to own this vintage milk bowl:

Or perhaps these hand-made pinwheel bobbies? Yes please!

Annnnd, she's donating a $25 shop credit to the winner! Lucky ducks!

The next shop owner is actually the author of a blog that I sponsor. Diana has been great throughout this whole thing, blasting social media, sending out e-mails, writing on her blog. She rocks! Her shop rocks too. I mean, how cute/warm does this hand-knit cowl look? 

About herself she writes:

hey everybody! my name is dianapantz and i blog over here! i write about being vegan in the midwest, riding my bike and turning my hobby into a career. come over and hang out! i share fun projects, pictures of the everyday and other goodies.

i also run this shop where i sell winter wear [think headbands, hats, scarves and cowls], kids accessories [bow ties and babypantz!], and farmers market totes.

Diana is offering a $10 shop credit AND she's going to match a chunk of the donations we receive here!

And lastly, even though I do not own a shop, I wanted to contribute, so I am donating a $25 Starbucks gift card to the lucky winner, and I am matching the first $50 in donations.

So, are you ready to help?!

Here's how you win:

Mandatory entry: 

Donate $5 to a cause assisting in the Texas Wildfire relief effort and leave a comment. My post, and this post have some great ways you can help! If your entry is chosen, you will have to send proof{e-mail, picture of receipt of donated in-kind goods, etc.} of donation to get your loot!

Additional Entries:

Tweet, post on Facebook, or blog about this giveaway {up to two entries}. Feel free to use this {or to re-tweet!}: GIVEAWAY+ FUNDRAISER @AdvntrsNFlpFlps' blog featuring @GussySews, @blueeyedowl & @dianapantzmpls + $25 Starbucks gc! http://iwilltouchthesky.blogspot.com/2011/09/texas-wildfire-giveaway-fundraiser.html

Donate more! You may make up to 4 additional comments posted in $5 increments {if you win, you'll have to show that you really did donate this amount}.

That's 7 possible entries!

This giveaway is open until Friday, 9/16/2011 at midnight, CST, and is open to U.S. ONLY. The winner will be chosen via random.org, will be announced on Saturday, September 16, and will have 48 hours to contact me. If the winner fails to do so in the alotted time, then I will be forced to choose another winner.

Good luck to everyone, and THANK YOU for your help! We all greatly appreciate it!

Texas Wildfire Relief Post

Howdy, friends. Some of you know that I am from Texas. I don't know how much it shows, but I love my state. Southern hospitality, Blue Bell Ice Cream, football, two-steppin' and Tex Mex. But, what I love the most is how when bad things happen to us, we dig in our heals and help each other rebuild.

After Hurricane Ike, neighbors rebuilt together, people shared their generators, their food, their grills. We rolled up our sleeves and made sure that we all got into the business of getting back to normal. We're putting that to the test at the moment because Texas is currently fighting and recovering from the busiest fire season in our history.

The worst you have probably heard about: a fire that started on September 4th near Lost Pines and Bastrop burned over 34000 acres of land with 2 lives and 1386 homes lost. It is still only 30% contained. Folks are without food, water, their most prized possessions. Some are still in shelters after evacuating with a few minutes notice and they have no idea if their pets, their homes, their lives are OK.

View from Highway 21 in Texas 5 days ago. Source: Texasfire.com

And that isn't only the one big fire; countless smaller ones have wrought their destruction on communities, one about 45 minutes from where I currently live. We were never in danger but our community has felt the shock, and the uncertainty especially considering that we're still fighting it. According to the Texas Forest Service we've lost about 21,000 acres from that fire and it is also only 30% contained {down from 85%}. Its close to the Texas Renaissance Festival which has not been affected but is serving as a base for firefighters and emergency personnel.

House destroyed in Magnolia fire. Source: Star-Telegram

Speaking of firefighter and emergency personnel, we have seen first-hand the commitment that our firefighters have to the people of Texas, and the generosity coming from all areas of the country. They have been there from the beginning, fighting to save people's homes, and mourning with them when they couldn't. We owe them a lot for what they do.

Here's what's needed now: Money, water, clothes, food, gatorade, everything.

And here's how you can help.

Monday I will be hosting a benefit giveaway featuring Gussy Sews, Dianapantz, the Blue Eyed Owl, and myself {value = $100!}. In order to enter you will have to a) donate money to a cause benefiting the wildfire relief effort and b) spread the word.  The more money you donate, the more of a chance you have of winning {and if your entry is chosen, you will have to PROVE your donation}, AND the more money that will be helping! Both myself and Diana will be matching the donations pledged in the giveaway.

And so, I am calling on you to help me spread the word! Twitter {use #TxBlogFireRelief hashtag}, Facebook, blogging, anything!

Organizations that are helping:
The American Red Cross {specify Texas Wildfires in your donation}, especially the Red Cross of Central Texas and the Greater Houston Area Red Cross.
Texas Wildfire Relief
United Way of Montgomery County
Bloggers Without Borders

If you live in Texas you can also take donations to any 4-H office or coordinate with your local fire-station. Many local chambers of commerce, YMCAs, banks, and grocery stores are joining the effort.

And of course, if you would like to contribute to the giveaway or match donations, there is always room! Please contact me at lreichstein {at} gmail {dot} com.

I'll see you Monday! Spread the word {note: I am @AdvntrsNFlpFlps}.

You Tube Tuesday: TCU coach avoiding the Gatoraid

Well, here we are, back on schedule.  As I mentioned a few posts ago, I'm not one for New Year's resolutions. That being said, my life tends to have many "new starts," like semester beginnings, camp, etc.  And, luckily for me, this semester starts at the beginning of the year (profound, I know).  One thing I'm working on this semester is to really follow through on things and stay on top of the details.  So, that means keeping on top of my features. Without further ado, I give you:

TCU coach trying to avoid his "surprise" Gatoraid bath.  I have to say, I love that TCU won. I despise the BCS bowl system (::waits for debate in 3...2...1...::) that disadvantages some really good teams from small schools. Boise State. TCU. So, I liked this win, and this coach's reaction just made me smile. You'll note, at the end, that he does get his bath.  Awesome.



By the way, Kim, over at Yellowsongbird is having another one of her awesome giveaways!  You should go see the cute stuff she's giving away, featuring one of her sponsors, The Pleated Polka Dot!  Enjoy!

New Feature! Money-Saving Monday

Welcome to 2011 everyone!  I'm not a big fan of New Year's resolutions. For one thing, it just means that the gym is more crowded until about March, and in general people tend to be unrealistic about what they can accomplish given the time, money, and lifestyle they have. I know, I know, people can do whatever they set their minds to. From observation, though, I find that most people don't want to set their minds to their resolutions, and thus, they don't achieve their goals.  That being said, I'm giving in to the hype, and setting one public resolution.

I'll be graduating in August, and have some things I want to save for. So, my goal is to spend less, save more, and not lose any quality of life. That means more bargain shopping, more coupons, more used stuff, and more use of websites like MyPoints, Groupon, Ebates, and Swagbucks. I'm also going to start a challenge called $100 holiday. It works by using deals, coupons, and earned giftcards (not giftcards given to you) and by buying used gifts and making some yourself that you will spend less than $100 out- of-pocket for all of Christmas gifts.  There is no sacrifice in quality, and no giving weird, cheap presents from the dollar store (although, sometimes the dollar store has some good stuff). The key to doing this is to start accumulating early, and by planning WAY ahead.

To keep myself accountable, I'll be blogging every Monday about how I've managed to save money, and how close I am to my goal. That part will be in percentages as I publicly blog, but you'll get to see my progress and hopefully use some of these deals and ideas yourself.  This is in response to The Saved Quarter challenge over on Penny Saver's blog. I've mentioned her before, but she is a mom with a husband and two kids who lives off of $24,000 in Silicon Valley and saved 1/4 of her income last year. Pretty awesome. So, look forward to that happening tomorrow!

As part of saving you money, she's having a Blogiversary giveaway with tons of gift cards worth over $300!  You should definitely check it out! Even if you don't win, I highly recommend subscribing because she seems to know all about some great deals, money making opportunities, and also does a fantastic scratch vs. store-bought series that I am in love with. What are you waiting for?!

Um, yes I'll take free groceries!

Well, I'm lame. I haven't been keeping up with the whole "good things" blog post challenge. Thesis/school have kept me a bit busy.

However, I promise some updates on my culinary adventures soon (though, not of ALL of them, but you'll get many of them).

And, as part of criteria for a give away I'm entering, I'm telling you to go here and enter to win $25 to Kroger. Don't tell me you can't use that (OK, you can tell me that if you don't live near a Kroger). You should do it!

I do promise to update about good things this week. At least once.