Half Finished by Lauraine Snelling

To quote her Norwegian grandmother, “Don’t that put the sizzle in the meat!”


Something new and different from Lauraine Snelling! Modern, upbeat, fast moving story. Be prepared to be inspired! There are some sad moments, but the warmth and love between these friends is wonderful. At first there were so many new faces in this small town group, but it didn't really take long to keep everybody straight once I spent some time with them. Really nice people. People you'd like to know personally, and better than anything you see on tv these days.

The people in this story decide to start a group for people who have unfinished projects laying around. They gather together to inspire and help each other to finish them. It's an eye opener if you're like me and keep putting projects off.  The closeness of the core people and the love they have for each other in their lives is inspiring too. You realize your life might be half finished as well. Full of great wisdom. Makes you want to cheer, hug and be part of the group. Christian fiction at it's best.

". . .life is not a contest to see how quickly we learn, which is an incredible gift from our God, who wants to help us grow. He never says, ‘Hurry up.'"

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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Lazy Crafternoon by Stella Fields

Capstone   Crafts & Hobbies, Teens & YA

Get your craft on! Learn some basic craft secrets and be inspired.

Excellent starter book for crafters. Very simple instructions for even the most basic materials and how to use them. Includes projects for sewing, jewelry making, decoupage, home art - even party recipes and decorations.   Among other great project ideas, you'll find accessories, a headband, dressing up a phone case, your headphones, cheap sunglasses and even your shoes! My favorites are the faux stained glass, ribbon wreath and glass charms.

I think the book would benefit by showing step-by-step illustrations for a few of the projects. I'm not sure how long some of the items will last, but if you're using inexpensive items, you won't mind throwing them away after they wear.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Capstone Publishing and Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html.

 

From the publisher:

Spend a lazy crafternoon with your friends. From pretty school supplies to colorful tech accessoriest to perfect party decor, Lazy Crafternoon guides tween crafters through simple stesp to create amazing projects.
For ages 9-13.
*Step-by-step instructions and images of complex steps makes crafting easy *Over 50 fast, fun crafts to create & share 

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Origami Jewelry by Mayumi Jezewski

Dover Publications   Crafts & Hobbies

A really cute craft book. There are great easy to follow instructions for basic jewelry making included that you can apply to many projects. Add the special craft of origami, and you can make some endearing jewelry pieces. There are so many origami papers, in so many colors and styles that you can make several pairs of each. 

It's hard to choose favorites, but I do especially like the iris and butterfly and the little stars are so dear! The finished examples shown make you want to make each and every piece - and extra to share with friends and relatives.

A very economical way to increase your jewelry and match all your outfits. Just don't lose the book, as I can see wanting to make more as time and outfits change. And I'm sure I will be watching the origami papers and find many I can't resist! 

I think these pieces would be attractive to many ages. And I bet you could sell some finished sets on Etsy or Facebook.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the Dover Publications and Netgalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” 

My reviews:

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