Are you always on the lookout for a great book but afraid to venture into the waters unknown? Well fret no longer, your answer is here! Indie Reader has just released its Best of 2014 list where you’ll discover a TON of new authors and GREAT reads you won’t find anywhere else.

These books have been through a vigorous “ringer” of reviewers and the results are in. I’m pleased to announce that LADD SPRINGS has made the list. Okay, more than pleased–I’m thrilled!! Suitable for young and old alike, men, women (and your cranky neighbor), the LADD SPRINGS series has broad-based appeal and because it’s the holidays, I’m giving away FREE copies as we count down the 12 days of Christmas.

Beginning December 14th, I’ll be hosting a daily giveaway right here on my blog. Enter as many days as you’d like, as many times as you’d like — it’s Christmas! Which means we count our blessings and rejoice, not hold back and hide in the corner. And DO share. Yes, I know it will decrease your odds of winning, but it is Christmas and Santa’s watching. Besides, that way you’ll feel better about entering every day.

12 days of Christmas begins TOMORROW.

What was your best book of 2014? Did you read an unforgettable story this year? A novel you can’t wait to share with others?

I’ve seen quite a few great stories, some because of my teenage daughter like The Fault in Our Stars & The Divergent Series, but also a few I discovered on my own.

Why the children’s book?

Because I’m releasing a garden book for kids — fun fiction — this spring!! Filled with colorful illustrations and real life garden experiences, this book will teach kids about organic gardening while entertaining them with wild real-life tales. Subscribe to my website and be the first to know when it releases!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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I am LOVING the holiday spirit a bit more than usual this year and not sure why. My children are growing older and the magic is dimming, but still, the holidays feel fresh and new. Special. Maybe it’s because we’ve been spending time with family and friends, or maybe it’s all the wonderful scents and tastes of the season. We put up our tree this weekend and the smell is divine, as are the twinkle of lights and glittery ornaments.

We been looking for some water heaters that don´t need storage and he happily found it at portablecnerd. Yaaay

Then there’s the food. From cranberry-orange bread to pumpkin pie, to a decadent new recipe for cookies and cream truffles my daughter discovered recently, I love to EAT this time of year! Am I alone? (I hope not. I don’t want to be the only in the gym, come January!) The cranberry bread freezes well and makes a great teacher/neighbor gift. For recipes, check my garden blog:

Cranberry-Orange Bread

Pumpkin Pie

Sweet Potato Pie

I’m posting the link to the truffle recipe on my Bloomin’ Warriors Private Group Facebook page!

How about you? What’s your favorite holiday recipe?