Book Review

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Thomas Nelson Publishers gives away free books in exchange for agreeing to write a book review and post it on your blog. My first review follows:

I read the book Through the Storm by Lynne Spears and Lorilee Craker, in one sitting. I expected it to be an easy read and it did not disappoint.

I did not expect Ms. Spears to spill any deep family secrets, and she didn’t. I was struck, however, by how naïve she must be. Her initial expression of discomfort with her daughter’s career was concerning the Rolling Stone magazine cover showing her underage daughter in underclothes. I am stunned that she and her husband would allow the photographer to be alone in the bedroom with their underage daughter in the first place. Have you ever heard the expression that someone “just fell off the turnip truck”?

If I am mistaken and these parents are not that naïve, then I can draw only one other conclusion. The money was good and they were willing to look the other way. After reading Ms. Spears’ version of events, I am more conflicted about the family’s story than ever. Lynne Spears claims to be a woman of faith, and she recounts how her family was deeply involved in the local church and in a Christian school. I hope her faith is what she claims, but I cannot seem to justify that with the path they allowed their daughter to follow. Yes, their daughter is now an adult and has every right to make her own decisions, but the first few years of her career were when she was underage. Where were these parents at that time when they should have been screaming “NO” at the top of their lungs? I don’t say that just in hindsight, knowing now where Britney’s career path would take her. I say that from a perspective of a Christian woman. At each and every step early on, where were these parents???

I draw the conclusion that they sold out for wealth and fame. While Lynne Spears wanted to tell the story from her perspective, I received the story as a whitewash of reality. I do not doubt her sincerity, but I do think they compromised important principles, one step at a time, for the sake of wealth and fame.

Elvis & Me

Everyone needs a break from time to time. I am no exception. My Dad invited me to take a trip with him to visit some relatives in Las Vegas. While I know how busy things are for this business at this time of year, I couldn't resist. Dad & I have become regular traveling companions as Mom's health prevents her from traveling as much as she'd like.

So Dad & I spent last week in Las Vegas, my first trip there. We had a wonderful time. Dad & my aunt made me laugh so much my face hurt for two days!

And another thing...Elvis. No visit would be complete without meeting "the king".

Now that I am back home there are orders to fill & calls to make & miles to go before I sleep. And although it was great fun, I'm so happy to be back in my "real life". Goodbye, Elvis.

Is Creme Brulee fragrance for you?

It is always rewarding to hear feedback from our customers. We gladly welcome both constructive criticism and kudos for a job well done.

A kind customer today raved about the Creme Brulee bundt cake candle she just received in the mail. She said that even the unopened box smelled amazing, the same thing our postmaster said when we shipped the package earlier this week.

We have learned that people have many differing opinions and preferences where scent is concerned, but so far everyone who has smelled the Creme Brulee scent has raved about it. While we can't please all the people all the time, maybe this one comes close.

Mandles

Halloween in Gatlinburg, TN

Ok, I just had to share this adorable photo. This was the cutest trick-or-treater I saw yesterday. Notice the rubber gloves for feet.

Taking time to smell the roses

I really needed a day off. Because I own my own business most people assume I can take a day off whenever I please. Yes, I do have flexibility that many people do not. However, small business owners don't leave work for the day at 4:30 or 5:00. We often are still working at 11:00 p.m. and on weekends as well.

So, I needed a break. I spent yesterday with family in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For me to say I took time to smell the roses is actually not accurate (our air quality is the worst of all the national parks in the US), but I did thoroughly enjoy the day. We went to Clingman's Dome, the 3rd highest point east of MS River. North Carolina has us beaten by 2.

As we entered the park we raved about the gorgeous leaves, but as we climbed we suddenly realized the trees were completely bare. Then we began to see the snow. What a treat in October! Yes, we had to throw a few snowballs.

It had been so long since my last visit to Clingman's Dome that I should be ashamed since we live here in the Smokies. I am making a late-in-the-year resolution to take more time to smell the.... Oh well. You get the idea.

Fall at Long Last!

There is just something about fall that puts me in a better mood. I can't exactly put my finger on it, but it does. Maybe it is due in part to the temperature change. I no longer walk outside & feel like I've stepped into a sauna. Maybe it is due to the changing of the leaves. Here in the Great Smoky Mountains the colors are just barely beginning to turn. I always anticipate those few days in late October (or sometimes the first week in November) when the leaves are at their brightest & best. Is anything more gorgeous?

Maybe it is due in part to the fact that we will soon build a crackling fire in our fireplace, or maybe sit around our outdoor fireplace snuggled under warm blankets & visit with friends while we enjoy hot chocolate or spiced cider.

Maybe it is just the thought of burning my Pumpkin Pie Spice candle, one of my all-time favorites.

Maybe the good mood is in part due to knowing that all-too-soon the holiday craziness begins, but for now I can just enjoy the season with all its amazing sights & smells!

Mmmm!


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