*** BOOK REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: The Mars Run *** (CLOSED)

File Size: 415 KB

Print Length: 189 pages

Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1411699734

Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited

Publisher: Lulu (October 21, 2006)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc. 

Language: English 

ASIN: B006YJNBQ6 

Text-to-Speech: Enabled 

X-Ray: Not Enabled

Lending: Enabled

Janet Pilgrim thought she was going to college. That was before Daddy went bankrupt. Now she's going to Mars, not as a tourist, but as a working astronaut, "the lowest form of life in space." Man may travel in space, but it is far from safe. Even training for space can get people killed, as Janet discovers. But as Janet discovers, the most dangerous thing in space is Man.

Warning: sex, violence and adult language.

About the Author:

Chris Gerrib has always wanted to go to Mars. When he was a boy, one of his favorite escapes was devouring all the local library’s books on space in the small Illinois town where he lived. He memorized a Werner Von Braun / Disney collaboration, which was full of cool pictures of cigar-shaped rockets.
He later went to the University of Illinois and ended up graduating with a degree in history. He had landed a scholarship via Navy ROTC and was then shipped off to the USS Jack Williams (FFG-24) in Mayport, Florida, in 1989, the year the Berlin Wall fell.
His service included a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea. Later, he earned an MBA at Southern Illinois University and is now a Senior Vice President of Technology at Republic Bank of Chicago. Chris currently lives in Villa Park, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.

PS: You can visit here and here.

Review:

Astronauts! Who by today’s standards are Heroes! Pioneers of the final frontier. In 'The Mars Run' futuristic storyline, the author mischievously turns them into "the lowest form of life in space". Sadly, Janet Pilgrim, our heroine, finds herself training as an astronaut for a one-year mission to Mars. Her first choice, like others graduating high school, is to go to college. Distraught by the horrible misdeeds and mismanagement of her college fund, she is forced to choose this lowly astronaut opportunity to earn the money to fulfill her dream.
I found the storyline and writing to be clear and cutting, as such it is easy to immerse yourself within the characters lives. Becoming a part of a nice believable story for the science fiction genre. A bit of action is dispersed through the story without being overbearing.
With the applied scientific knowledge shared in this novel, I think the science fiction buff will enjoy this story. I was pleased with intrigue and conflicts of this futuristic story. Kept my interest in a nice steady pace.
In the end the question is what will Janet Pilgrim do? What choice shall she make? Janet's life drastically changes and she will face decisions. Decisions, not only for herself, but also for another. Shall we be treated to a continuation of Janet's story?
In "The Mars Run" by Christopher Gerrib, you can gather the unique fascination he has with Mars. Space is clearly the authors dream and 'The Mars Run' is his means to satisfy that dream.

BUY IT: You can buy the paperback version for $12.94 and the Kindle version for $2.99 on Amazon.

WIN IT: Three (3) winners will receive an e-book copy of "The Mars Run" by Chris Gerrib. (Value: $2.99 USD)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* Review by Debbie.

*** GIVEAWAY: Jadjus Jewelry *** (CLOSED)

About the Company:
I’m a jewelry designer specializing in lampwork jewelry. I use lampwork glass beads some of which are designed by me from reputable, talented SRA artisans. I handmade all my work using sterling silver, 14k gold filled, and swarovski crystals. I also design and make autism jewelry with a percentage of proceeds going to a center for autistic kids.

I'm a member of the International Organization for Self-Representing Artist in Jewelry Designer (SRAJD Member #2959).

BUY IT: Autism lampwork jewelry are between $26 - $33; lampwork clearance sale are between $16 - $18; lampwork boro earrings are between $27 - $52; lampwork bracelets are between $65 - $75; lampwork earrings are between $18 - $82; lampwork necklaces are between $15 - $37; 14k gold filled earrings are between $26 - $41; polymer clay earrings are $17; destash are between $10.99 - $18.

WIN IT: One (1) winner will receive a pair of Aqua Lampwork Flower Earrings. (Value: $18.00 USD)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* I wasn't paid or didn't receive anything in any way. I'm not responsible for the shipping of the prize. I'm not affiliated with this company.

WEIGHT LOSS (and Mangosteen benefits)

Most of you know that I have been trying to lose weight since the end of March. I have lost 8 kg so far. But how did I achieve it? Well, first of all, I care about what I eat. I used to eat in quite large portions as well as some kind of junk food (chocolate, cookies, corn chips, coke, etc.) in the past. And I was really fond of sweet treats. I could not imagine a day without dessert. I was looking for anything sugary for teatime after lunch or dinner. Sometimes I was nearly in crisis :) And as I said, I was eating my meal and other treats in large quantities, not a couple of bites or sips. That was one of my biggest mistakes, because stomach consists of muscles and when we eat more, it grows bigger, so we start to need more food and we go round in circles :(

However, weight loss is not much difficult as you think. It is related to our self control and the correct method that we use. I have tried to lose weight for the last a few years, but only this time I could be successful. Why? Let me tell you.

First, I started to eat the half of what I used to eat. I am not in a diet. I eat what I want, but in smaller portions. This really relaxed my stomach, because its muscles shrunk. And I do not crave for anything, because I can taste anything I like. Then, I started to drink a lot of water (2 liters in average) everyday. It helps us lose our appetite and also you do not long for dessert much when you drink a lot of water. In addition, it makes your skin beautiful. So, kill two birds with one stone ;) Do not forget; drink a bottle of water before the meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) or when you feel hungry. Your hunger will be satisfied a little, and you will be able to eat less. Next, I try to exercise 3 days a week. I do not like going outside for exercise, so I do aerobics & walk at home with the help of some videos. It strengthened my muscles and my posture. It also boosts the metabolism. But, please do not overdo it, because after 1 hour of exercise, it is useless and you cannot burn your fat in this way. 45-60 minute of exercise in 2-3 days a week is enough for your body unless you are a bodybuilder :) And be careful, if you have herniated disk like me, never do floor exercise! Just walk. Working out the long muscles will help you lose weight more quickly. By the way, you can use some high-quality and safe fat-burning & cellulite gels as a support, but you need to find the right one that really works. And of course, if you look for additional ways to support your weight loss by giving you good health and energy (we need to preserve our health while getting fit), try Mangosteen. Among the Mangosteen benefits, maintenance of good health takes the lead. It supports the immune system, improves your joint function and promotes a healthy respiratory system (all of which we need when dieting and/or exercising).

Finally, believe in yourself. You cannot achieve anything if you do not trust yourself. Be strong-minded, and the barriers ahead of you will disappear. What I lacked in the past was a strong will, but now I have it and I know that I can do it. Never underestimate yourself; you are more than what you think of. Just be consistent and never give up this routine even if you could not perform it for a whole week. This happens to me, too. Do not let your guard down, just start it again, and BELIEVE IN YOURSELF. You are strong…

*This is a sponsored post for Xango, however, all the points and views are my own.

Just What I Want Giveaway Winners

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
The form does not work properly, so the winners are: Julie H., Melody R., Betsy N., Zabrina C., melanie g., Ted K., Katie R., Dwayne B., Steve B., Morgan Lepley E.

http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/just-what-i-want-giveaway.html

HIGH PERFORMANCE: A Sigma Exclusive

The Performance Eyes Kit is essential for creating elaborate makeup looks.

I HAVE A REQUEST :)

I asked for it a few days ago, but I guess it didn't attract your attention, because just a couple of my dear readers supported me. I don't know what kind of music you listen to, but if you love symphonic & gothic metal & rock, could you please support me and my band by liking the page below? Thank youuuuu :)

http://on.fb.me/JWVmZz

Sigma - CONCEAL the deal

The Synthetic Precision Kit was developed to mimic your fingertips for a flawless finish.

MBS Power Wheels Event Giveaway Winner

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner on the Rafflecopter form here: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/mbs-power-wheels-event-giveaway.html

$250 Dulce Mio Gift Card Giveaway Winner

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner on the Rafflecopter form here: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/250-dulce-mio-gift-card-giveaway.html

I Definitely Must Have These Dark Beauties!

You know I'm a huge fan of black color! I feel much more comfortable and self-confident in it. I just love it :) So, I'd like to show you some gorgeous pieces I crave for from goodkoop. And here's my wishlist, enjoy!
PS: You can click on the pictures to check the pieces in detail.

I know this is not black, but I like it anyway :) What do you think?

*** GIVEAWAY: ClothingLoves *** (CLOSED)

About the Company:
Clothingloves.com is a leading supplier of Wedding Dresses, Special Occasion Dresses, Women’s Clothing, Men's Clothing, Intimate Lingerie etc. Customers choose Clothingloves.com because of our fast delivery, professional service and quality products.
In addition to our primary offerings, our inventory also includes Holiday Specials, Bedding and Lounge, Fashion Shoes and Wigs.

BUY IT: Women's fashion start from $1.59; men's fashion start from $3.99; wedding apparel start from $0.46; occasion dresses start from $23.81; and jewelry start from $2.87.

OFFER: Each new client will receive 15% off coupon at once by email after register.

WIN IT: One (1) winner will receive a $40 gift certificate on www.clothingloves.com. You can spend them however you like!

* THE FIRST THREE ENTRIES ARE MANDATORY! AFTER YOU COMPLETE THEM, YOU CAN UNLOCK THE OPTIONAL ENTRIES!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* I wasn't paid or didn't receive anything in any way. I'm not responsible for the shipping of the prize. I'm not affiliated with this company.

BayAreaMommy's 1st Blog Anniversary Giveaway Winners

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner on the Rafflecopter form here: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/bayareamommys-1st-blog-anniversary.html

Sizzling Summer Giveaway Winner

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner here: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/sizzling-summer-giveaway.html

Amazon Blast Giveaway Winner

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner on the Rafflecopter form here: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/amazon-blast-giveaway.html

What I Wore

Yesterday, my boyfriend and I decided to go outside for lunch and then ice-cream as a prize to ourselves :) The weather was very nice and we wanted to get advantage of it. Before enjoying the ice-cream, I asked my boyfriend to take my pictures showing my outfit. I guess this is the first time I do such a thing (except product reviews). Actually I wanted to try modeling, because I've just become an Oasap fashion blogger! I placed my free order and I will write about it soon when I receive it. So, here are the pictures :)

*** GIVEAWAY: eFoxCity *** (CLOSED)

About the Company:

eFoxcity.com is an online fashion clothing wholesaler. We are suppliers of many wholesalers and boutiques worldwide.
We are legally registered as a private company in SHANGHAI, CHINA, and have received business license from CHINA government. Purchase at eFoxcity.com indicates safe and well-managed trade.
We supply most wedding apparel, fashionable clothing & Korean style ladies’ apparel internationally. We understand that fashion market wants unique and special ladies clothes, so we are always adding beautiful new styles to our collection. Please come and visit our site regularly to see what we have updated. We pride on offering exceptional low wholesale price but good quality at the same time. We provide fantastic service and still work hard to improve.
We offer large variety of clothing styles including: wedding & event dresses, winter jackets and coats for women, party dresses, cute T-shirts, Hot ladies tank tops, Sexy Halter Tops, stylish outer wears, charming under covers, sporty sets, romantic Love Pearls and accessories, elegant evening gowns, fine quality tailor made wedding gowns. We bring you an amazing assortment of products in many brands and styles, and 90% similarity with clothing on famous fashion magazines.

BUY IT: You can find great pieces for men and women, and there are also wedding dresses for your most important day! Prices start from $4.99.

OFFER: Each new client will receive 10% off coupon at once by email after register.

WIN IT: One (1) winner will receive a $50 gift certificate on www.efoxcity.com. You can spend them however you like!

* THE FIRST THREE ENTRIES ARE MANDATORY! AFTER YOU COMPLETE THEM, YOU CAN UNLOCK THE OPTIONAL ENTRIES!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* I wasn't paid or didn't receive anything in any way. I'm not responsible for the shipping of the prize. I'm not affiliated with this company.

$100 Paypal Cash Giveaway Winner

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner on the Rafflecopter form here: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/100-paypal-cash-giveaway.html

What is Your Musical Taste?

I'd like to ask for a favor from you. If you are a fan of symphonic, progressive and/or gothic rock & metal, could you please support the page below by liking it? This is my band's page and we will have very nice surprises in the following months. Thank you!

http://on.fb.me/JWVmZz

Mid Summer Fashion Giveaway Winner

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner on the Rafflecopter form here: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/mid-summer-fashion-giveaway-open.html

Whispering Hills & Dark Seeker - WINNERS

Whispering Hills: Surso Sousa

Dark Seeker: Karina Vavere

Congratulations! I will be e-mailing you shortly!
Giveaway Link: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/book-review-giveaway-whispering-hills.html

* If you don't receive my e-mail, please comment here or send me an e-mail:
annabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com
And don't forget to check your spam box!

Dog Trots Globe - To Paris & Provence Book Giveaway Winner

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner on the Rafflecopter form here: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/dog-trots-globe-to-paris-provence-book.html

*** REVIEW: BackJoy ***

I have suffered from back pain for years. When I was a child, I could not do a somersault or such, because when I did, my back would start giving me a horrible pain for days. Actually I was born with scoliosis and its level increased as I grew older. When I gained weight, the pain intensified; if I walk for a few hours especially with a pack or heavy bag, etc., the lower back of my left shoulder starts aching like a fire's burning in hell! Now that I lost a few pounds, I'm a little more comfortable, but not enough, because the posture is also very important. I'm a freelance translator and my job is done with the computer for hours, so think about my torture :(

I was sent BackJoy® Posture + ($39.99 USD) to try and review, and when I started using it, what I felt was that it immediately straightened my sitting posture as if a magic wand automatically changed me. I normally stoop when I working, and indeed, I sensed that I had to sit correctly, because even if I tried to release myself, I couldn't do it :) The product helps you sit up straight, so by giving you a relief, it eliminates or at least decreases the pain caused by the posture faults. But you need to sit on the product correctly to get the best results. However, one thing is that you may not use this product for very long hours. For a long-term use, you need to consider another product of the same company for a more comfortable sitting. They have great products for every need. If you have problems with your spine like me, I recommend you to buy BackJoy products for your good health.
PS: It has very nice color options like black, fuschia, orange, red, sea blue and yellow.

About the Product:
Most people will eventually experience back pain due to the huge amount of time they spend sitting slouched working away. BackJoy Posture+ is a seat enhancement that mechanically signals the body to sit more comfortably and correctly, avoiding life-limiting back problems and driving increased health and vitality.

BackJoy is leading a revolution: change your posture, change your life.

With this mission in mind, BackJoy has developed a line of back pain aids, including the break through new BackJoy Posture+, an amazing product that can get you through your work day as painlessly as possible. It’s easy to use and truly makes a difference for people who sit for long stretches at a time.

PS: You can like them on Facebook, or follow on Twitter.

BUY IT: Sit products are $39.99 and $59.99; stand products are $19.99; sleep products are $89.99; accessories are $19.99 and $100.00.

* I received the abovementioned free item for an honest review.

*** BOOK REVIEW: The Dark Side of the Glass ***

Paperback: 82 pages

Publisher: Double Dragon Publishing; Large type edition edition (May 8, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1554049555

ISBN-13: 978-1554049554

Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.8 x 0.3 inches

Shipping Weight: 5.6 ounces

This is a story about Mary, number one fan of the hottest cult vampire detective TV show, City By Night... until it becomes all too real.
An accident with the Craft Services truck sends her hurtling into the world of the show, and Mary is thrilled - who wouldn't want to live alongside their favorite TV characters? Unfortunately, living in TV-land isn't all that Mary thought it would be. The charm fades when Mary realizes that the extras still don't speak, the matte paintings don't become real, and all the infuriating flaws in the writing are just amplified when you have to try to interact with the shallow characters. And then, of course, the lead character Leondre DuNoir falls for her!
Sure, fine, he's hot... but he's also a bit, well, poorly written. And his admiration comes with its own set of problems: Antonio, Leondre's psychotic stalker, has a habit of killing off the girls-of-the-week. Not only is Mary disillusioned with what she thought was a lush world until she had to try to maneuver in it, now she's about to be murdered by one of the stupidest clichés in the history of television in a world that, pardon the pun, totally sucks.
A loving satire of the Toronto film industry, vampire-cop television, and what it really means to be a "fan" from award-winning science fiction author J.M. Frey.

My Review:

“The Dark Side of the Glass” by J.M. Frey is a fun and light reading where the protagonist finds herself in her favorite TV show one day. You think it would be a very fantastic and extraordinary thing to find yourself in the middle of a “dream” reality, but the things don’t go on as it is hoped. The things and people that once looked like real now are not beyond the unreality. This book makes a great reference to especially today’s temporary but very popular vampire trend in its satiric language. The current TV world that offers just bubbles (of course I cannot deny high-quality productions) is highly criticized in this book. I think you would start questioning yourself if you are just a watcher, a fan, or a fanatic when reading this book, of course with an ironic smile.

* I received the abovementioned free item for an honest review.

#57 MAIL ALERT :)

I won these beauties from Ella Goodwin's giveaway. The shipping was so fast! It arrived from UK to Turkey in just 5 days. She is so kind that she also sent not one, but three pieces of jewelry! And the illustration cards are so sweet. I recommend you to check her Etsy shop for very unique pieces.
* Yes, it's a zombie cat :)
ARV: $25

What to Expect When You're Expecting Giveaway Winners

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
You can check the winner on the Rafflecopter form here:  http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/what-to-expect-when-youre-expecting.html

Welcome Home - WINNER

Congratulations! I will be e-mailing you shortly! Please reply me within 48 hours.
Giveaway Link: http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/07/book-review-giveaway-welcome-home.html

* If you don't receive my e-mail, please comment here or send me an e-mail:
annabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com
And don't forget to check your spam box!

CollageIt Software Giveaway Winners

I didn't host this giveaway, I was just a participator, but I want to share the winner with you.
The Rafflecopter form does not work properly, so the winners are: Kelly Brown, Rhonda Martin.

http://sweepstakelover.blogspot.com/2012/06/collageit-software-giveaway.html

My Recent Shopping :)

I ordered all of these beauties from EdenFantasys by using my gift cards. I really love such clothings and they are my stage costumes, yes! I'll wear them on the stage in my concerts with my band :) Maybe I can do a post showing all of my stage costumes and accessories soon...

TOTAL: $229.18 USD including shipping.