Abigail and the Waterfall Blog Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

What could be a better way to celebrate the cooler weather than a family outing? See how much fun Abigail is having during her family's monthly hiking trip in Abigail and the Waterfall: Loving God's Good Earth, written by scholar and author Sandra L. Richter. Enter to win a copy or a Book Lover's Bundle, including a Starbucks gift card and a book of choice from Amazon!

My Review:

With ecstatic characters and adorable animals jumping off the page, Abigail and the Waterfall advocates environmental protection, wildlife conservation, responsible use of natural resources, and sustainable practices through an informative and delightful faith-based narrative enhanced by beautiful nature-inspired drawings.

The first Saturday of every month is Abigail's favorite because that's when her whole family goes hiking in the woods. On the way to their special place, they hear the sounds of nature, feel the fresh, misty air, and encounter a wide variety of wild plants and creatures. They make sure to keep things intact, leave no trash behind, and observe animals without disturbing them.

With Abigail telling the story from her point of view, readers can clearly feel her love for nature, her excitement about new discoveries, and her dedication to protecting and taking good care of the planet. Following her lead, little ones are encouraged to explore nature through their senses of sight, sound and smell while learning how they can help protect wildlife and their home in the wilderness. Some simple but helpful tips Abigail shares include carrying a reusable water bottle, packing up food wrappers and leftovers after a picnic, and not touching any of the animals.

The book's gorgeous artwork vividly depicts the wonders of nature and introduces young readers to various plants and animals native to the Appalachian mountains on each colorful spread. The author also provides additional information and advice for environmentally conscious families in the back matter.

Engaging and educative, Abigail and the Waterfall is a fantastic book that helps foster a lifelong love for nature as well as a sense of responsibility for enironmental protection. It reminds us to show respect and gratitude for what nature has to offer and encourages us to start a family tradition to enjoy the great outdoors.

About the Book:

Ages: 4-6 | 32 Pages
Publisher: IVP Kids (2025) | ISBN: 978-1514008928

Abigail loves Saturdays—especially when her family goes hiking! Follow Abigail and her family as they hike through the lush landscapes of Appalachia, encounter fascinating animals, and marvel at a big, beautiful waterfall. On their adventure, Abigail learns about caring for creation — about loving and stewarding the world God created.

Written by parent and university professor Sandra Richter and brought to life with enchanting illustrations by Michael Corsini, Abigail and the Waterfall is more than just a storybook—it’s an invitation for families to discuss what the Bible says about caring for the environment, animals, and the beautiful world around us.

Why families will love Abigail and the Waterfall:

• A captivating story about faith, nature, and stewardship 
• Thought-provoking themes to help kids learn to love the environment 
• A special note from the author to encourage meaningful conversations about creation care

Give your young readers a story filled with wonder and discovery. With Abigail and the Waterfall, families can experience the joy of exploring and protecting the world God has entrusted to us. Teach children to love all of God’s good earth and get your copy today!

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org | IVP Kids

Jo's Special Gifts Blog Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Every child is unique in their own way and those on the autism spectrum are no exception. Let's find out what makes a little boy named Jo special in Mariam Shapera's newly released picture book Jo’s Special Gifts. Enter to win a book set autographed by the author, along with a Starbucks gift card!

My Review:

Based on the author's personal experience with parenting an autistic child, Jo’s Special Gifts is an uplifting and illuminating book that promotes neurodiversity, autism acceptance and positive parenting. Jo takes delight in reading about space, playing piano, watching spinning objects in action, and riding his favorite bike. Meanwhile, it takes time for him to adjust to changes or learn something new. He is not inclined to engage in a conversation unless the topic really interests him. He may express fear and anxiety by repeating certain words. But what matters most is that he always feels loved and cared for!

Written in rhymes and with great enthusiasm from the perspective of Jo, the book sheds light on how someone with autism thinks and behaves differently, and the kind of support and accommodations that can be provided to help kids with special gifts thrive and shine. It encourages young readers to pursue their passion and embrace diversity. It helps them understand the differences and challenges that their neurodivergent peers may experience. For parents with autistic children, it inspires them to help their little ones discover and cherish their unique talents, and build their confidence by cheering for their efforts as well as their achievements. Parents need to be patient, supportive, or simply be there when their kids need a shoulder to lean on.

Combining vibrant colors with vivid characters, the illustrations are cheerful and imaginative, reflecting the positive tone of the narrative while enriching the story with interesting details. Students with different ethnic backgrounds and physical conditions are thoughtfully represented in the classroom, where various devices can be found to help accommodate children with special needs. In the back of the book, the author also includes a guide to address common questions parents have about supporting a child on the spectrum.

Inspiring and informative, Jo's Special Gifts is a pleasure to read for all, as a sweet reminder of how special each and every one of us is.

About the Book:

Ages 4+ | 39 Pages
Publisher: Mariam Shapera | ISBN-13: 979-8-9896337-0-8

Join Jo, an enthusiastic, curious and sensitive boy, as he shares his autistic joys and challenges with you. This is an emotional journey that celebrates neurodiversity and embracing one’s own gifts. This heartwarming rhyming story celebrates the unique gifts that each person can bring to the world. You will love entering this amazing autistic brain as we celebrate Jo’s special gifts.

Purchase links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Bookshop.org

The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine Blog Tour: Book Two Review & Gift Cards Giveaway

Here comes my review of the second book in The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine picture book series. You may read my review of the first book here, if you haven't already. And don't forget to enter the Starbucks gift cards giveaway below!

About Book Two:

Book Title: Rusty Goes to Water World (The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine) by Joe Fisher
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 4-8), 36 pages
Genre: Children's Fiction
Publisher: Angler Publishing
Release date: August 2021
Tour dates: Aug 22 to Sep 9, 2022
Content Rating: G for children.

The townspeople of Someport-by-the-Sea want to honor Rusty for saving them during the “Summer Like No Other” so the Mayor Himself decides a park should be named in Rusty’s honor. But, finding the right place is not as easy as it sounds. Then when students at Sea Stone Elementary take Rusty on their end of year celebration at Water World things don’t go as planned.

Just as Mr. Spritz the Manager of Water World is about to close the park because of an equipment failure, Rusty, with the help of Fireman Jim and Mike the Deputy Fire Chief, once again saves the day and in the process finds a new home in a water park that bears his name.

My Review:

The adventure of Rusty the faded fire engine gets even wilder in the fun-filled Rusty Goes to Water World. Everyone in town wants to do something to show their heartfelt appreciation for good old Rusty, as well as to prevent themselves from forgetting him ever again. They applaud the mayor's idea about naming a park after Rusty but the search for the perfect park yields no result. The school kids suggest visiting Rusty more often, but the right time refuses to present itself.

Luckily, the second graders keep Rusty in mind and get permission to invite him to their annual celebration at Water World on the last day of school. When the pump inside the amusement park breaks down to cut the fun short, Rusty rises to the occasion and makes sure that everyone has the best day ever at Water World, later known as Rusty Always Saves the Day Water Park.

Filled with thrilling rides and slides, Water World is clearly the center of all actions and activities for this book. The illustrations of Water World are spectacular, with plenty of intricate designs and ample room for imagination. Those who are really fascinated about Water World can scan the QR code on the last page to access an illustrated map with more detailed descriptions about different parts and attractions of the park. What a cool bonus feature!

Compared with book one, the sequel sees a more playful and and joyful Rusty who actively interacts with the townspeople. This side of Rusty makes young readers love him even more. Plus, Rusty's rescue mission inspires us to be creative problem solvers and not to give up easily. I'm sure Rusty will continue to surprise us with his hidden capabilities. Look forward to finding out what they are in the next book in the series!

Buy the Book: Joe Fisher Books | Amazon | iBook
Add to Goodreads

The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine Blog Tour: Book One Review & Gift Cards Giveaway

The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine is a picture book series by Joe Fisher, with two books published and a third one one the way. I'd like to  share my reviews of the first two books in order (today and Friday) as well as the chance to win one of two $25 Starbucks gift cards courtesy of the author.

About Book One:

Book Title: Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine (The Adventures of Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine) by Joe Fisher
Category: Children's Fiction (Ages 4-8), 32 pages
Genre: Children's Fiction
Publisher: Angler Publishing
Release date: May 2017
Tour dates: Aug 22 to Sep 9, 2022
Content Rating: G for children.

When the Mayor Himself decides the town of Someport-by-the-Sea needs a new fire engine the Fire Chief picks a shiny, bright red one that has all the latest tools needed to put out fires. The new fire engine becomes the joy of the children in town and the pride of the fireman and townspeople alike.

But after many years the fire engine becomes old and worn until everyone begins to laugh and call it Rusty. Sad and forlorn Rusty is ignored and forgotten. Then during the 4th of July parade in a summer like no other Rusty saves the day in a most surprising and unusual way.

Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine tells the story of a fire engine and the fireman and boy who love him. It is a lighthearted and multi-layered story, richly told, that will appeal to children and adults alike.

Whimsical illustrations create an air of fantasy, drawing children into Rusty’s world while stimulating their imaginations as they follow Rusty’s journey from hero to outcast and back again.

The surprise ending brings the tale to a heart-warming and satisfying conclusion that reveals all things have hidden value that is waiting to be released. Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine is a classic story of love, loss, transformation and redemption.

My Review:

Rusty the Forgotten Fire Engine is a thought-provoking and heartwarming story about the ups and downs of a fire engine. When new and shiny, the vehicle is nicknamed Reddy, who is always ready to fight a fire. He is the center of attention and affection, and leads the 4th of July parade. But as he ages and loses luster, he fades into oblivion. Ridiculed as Rusty the broken down old fire engine, he faces the threat of being replaced for good..until he proves his worth again in a refreshing and unexpected manner.

The story is very enjoyable and engaging. My 6-year-old giggled at the funny sounds made by different parts of the fire engine, shed tears when Rusty's best days become a thing of the past, and cheered wholeheartedly at Rusty's heroic comeback. He loves Rusty so much that he hugs the book tightly each time he finishes reading it.

The colorful and lively illustrations add humor and glamor to the story. While the text focuses more on people's actions and reactions, the pictures show Rusty's feelings through vivid facial expressions and body language. The book includes quite a few scenes involving a large crowd, like town meetings, parades, and field trips. I'm amazed by how well each character and every single detail is depicted in those pictures.

Rusty's story reminds us not to be forgetful about things and people who have once served or helped us. They remain a valuable asset regardless of age, or even because of old age. The book is a worthy read for different generations, and may evoke very different emotions among them.

Buy the Book: Joe Fisher Books | Amazon | iBook
Add to Goodreads

Money is Emotional & $25 Starbucks Gift Card Giveaway

Do you find it way too challenging to stay financially healthy? Are you looking for practical tips that can help achieve your short- and long-term financial goals? Enter to win a copy of Money is Emotional by Christine Luken along with a $25 Starbucks Gift Card!

Sponsored by blogger and author: Christine Luken.

Hosted by: Lil' Blog and More

Co-hosted by Hartwell Real Estate Blog

Financial Lifeguard and author, Christine Luken, is offering a signed copy of her new book, Money is Emotional: Prevent Your Heart from Hijacking Your Wallet and a $25 Starbucks gift card, because what goes better together than books and coffee?

$100 Starbucks Gift Card Giveaway

Starbucks is not only a great place to get gourmet coffee and hearty breakfast items, but it's also one of my favorite stores to grab delicious cold beverages during hot weather. Enter to win a $100 gift card to Starbucks today!

Hosted by Oh My Gosh Beck!

One lucky person will win a $100 Starbucks Gift Card!

$50 Starbucks Gift Card Giveaway (5 Days Only!)

Welcome to the $50 Starbucks Gift Card Giveaway!

Brought to you by a brand new site called Habidy.

Do you consider yourself an opinionated person? Are you looking forward to having a virtual hangout with those who love to express their opinions publicly and freely as much as you do? Would you be interested in joining an online community that sparks meaningful conversations? If any of the above describes you, you should definitely check out Habidy!

Habidy is the next great social community on the Internet. As a member of Habidy, you can add photos, videos, links and any other content - just make it interesting, have a point of view and don’t tell us how much you want pancakes or how much you love your pet gerbil.

Habidy was built with one mission in mind: to create a community where members can truly question their world by asking questions, posting opinions and sharing information.

Habidy does not limit your interaction to friends. It doesn’t have points and games. Nor is it intended to be a showcase of your party pictures or a place to document the fact that you’re in a crabby mood. It’s an exchange of ideas, opinions, interests, articles and news that we hope will lead to more informed, colorful interactions among people on the web.

Ready to join in the fun? To create your Habidy account, simply go to www.habidy.com and type this code into the field that says "Got a Code?" : W35LIL

The Habidy Rules:

Well, there really are no rules. Their goal is to help create a unique online community and to stand for truth, justice and the American way. Habidy is all about opinions, and we all know that everyone has one. However, if you badger, pester or bully, you will be finding another community to join.

One lucky new user of Habidy will win a $50 Starbucks gift card!

Today Only! Free $5 Starbucks Gift Card from Deals in DFW!

Hot freebie from Deals in DFW! "Like" Deals in DFW on Facebook, and get a free $5 Starbuck's gift card! Available for the first 5,000 registrants between 6am and midnight on August 9, 2011 only! I'm sure the offer won't last long, so act fast! Don't forget to fill out the registration form with your mailing information!

Deals in DFW is a new daily deal site brought to you by the Dallas Morning News. They offer exclusive deals for the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex for 50 - 80% off!

Fine Print:
Limit one per person, not valid for previous registrants of DealsinDFW.com. You must "Like" Deals in DFW on Facebook before Midnight on August 9, 2011 to be eligible for this offer. Starbucks Gift Cards will be mailed out to all eligible registrants during the week of August 22-26, 2011 and will arrive via USPS within 7-10 business days.

Happy Valentine's Day 24 Hour Giveaway (3 Winners)!

~~The giveaway is now CLOSED. Congrats to Letessha, Cori & Kelly!~~

Happy Valentine's Day! Hope you've got something exciting planned for tonight. Love the Pocoyo Valentine's Day card you just saw? You may download it FREE in Google Docs, choose File, and then select Print PDF. Pato Valentine’s Day Card, Elly Valentine’s Day Card, and Loula Valentine’s Day Card are also available for free download.

If you are thinking about a movie night, don't forget to use code BEMINE to receive a FREE rental at Redbox. How do you like the Grammy's Award last night? Did your favorite artist win? Wanna play some romantic music tonight? You may receive 5 FREE songs if you are an American Express cardholder. Find out how to take advantage of this offer here. If you're a member of Victoria's Secret Pink Nation, you may want to check your mailbox for a coupon good for a free panty. If you missed the FREE Ocean Spray sample offer today, keep checking their Facebook page for the rest of the week, as there will be more given away.

 Besides all the freebies out there, you could win a few prizes from me! As promised, I'm giving away the $10 Starbucks Gift Card I received from the Parents Insight Network referral contest. Plus, I want to give away a $50 Gift Certificate to FashionPlaytes and a coupon good for $18.95 worth of Monkey Brains products (shipping charge excluded). So there will be a total of 3 winners! As I know you love quickie giveaways, I will close entries tomorrow night.

Giveaway Rules

Required Entry: Follow my blog through one of the following ways: Google Friends Connect, email updates, Facebook, or blog roll (link or button). Leave a comment telling me a way to verify how you follow. Please also tell me if you are NOT interested in a particular prize . That'll help me match prizes with interests. (Please leave a valid email address in your comment or make sure one is visible in your blogger profile).

Extra Entries (optional): please make sure you do the required entry first! Please leave a separate comment for each extra entry, i.e. 1 comment=1 entry.

• Follow Me on Twitter AND tweet the following message (1 extra entry per day) Yes! You may tweet once daily to increase your chances:

RT @luckytoddler #VDay 24-hour #giveaway! #Win $80 in prizes, @Starbucks GC & more! 3 Winners! http://bit.ly/vdaygy #contest #sweepstakes
Please leave the link to your tweet in your comment.

• Tweet this message by 2/15 at 8pm and leave the link to your tweet (1 extra entry):

@MGCheerios @luckytoddler invited me to check out the MultiGrain Cheerios Twitter Party during @BiggestLoserNBC #MGCheerios #BL11

• Join itsThoughtful via this link and leave your user name (5 extra entries) New signups on 2/14 only. You must confirm your membership for your entry to count. 
• Join QuestionMoms.com and leave your user name (5 extra entries) New signups 2/14-2/15 only.
• Write "I nominate icefairy's Treasure Chest for an AVONdreamers Ambassadorship." on AVONdreamers FB page Please tag my blog FB page if you know how to do it. Thank you! (2 extra entries)
• Join Nanoosa and leave the email you use (3 extra entries) New signups 2/14-2/15 only.
• Join Contest Idooble and leave your FB name (2 extra entries)  New signups 2/14-2/15 only. You could win a share of $25,000 in prizes! You must be my FB friend for your entry to count.
• Join Eversave and leave the email you use (2 extra entries)  New signups 2/14-2/15 only.
• Join Magic Mall and leave your user name (2 extra entries) New signups 2/14-2/15 only.
• Join Gaggle of Chicks and leave the email you use (2 extra entries) New signups 2/14-2/15 only. 
• Apply to join Social Spark and leave your user name (5 extra entries) New signups 2/14-2/15 only. Both bloggers and business owners are welcome to join!

Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm Pacific Time on 2/15/11
Open to ALL

Winners will be chosen using random.org and will have 72 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Thanks for entering and good luck!

Disclosure: All the prizes are provided by myself and will be delivered electronically.