Author: Sandra Cruz

Blogger, book reviewer, artist, poet, avid reader and nature/animal lover.

New book release: ‘Help, My Baby Won’t Stop Crying !’ by Anne-Marie Springer

‘Help, My Baby Won’t Stop Crying!: A Simple Guide for New Parents’ is the new book by Anne-Marie Springer. Photo: Amazon

Being a new parent is a joyful occasion, but like everything else, it has its ups and downs. One of those times is when your baby just won’t stop crying. There are many reasons why they cry, and the challenging part is figuring why and how to handle the situation. Thankfully, there are books out there that address this particular subject. If you are a new parent, or know someone who is, consider today’s new book release. “Help, My Baby Won’t Stop Crying!: A Simple Guide for New Parents” by Anne-Marie Springer contains sensible, compassionate advice to help you through your baby’s crying episodes. It is available on Amazon.

Anne-Marie Springer has had a passion for nursing and taking care of others for as long as she can remember. Always a caregiver, she loved babysitting, comforting sick family members, patching up friends’ skinned knees and dreamed of following a career in medicine. This inspired her to join the United States Navy for the college fund and to ultimately obtain her Nursing Degree from the University of South Florida. After graduation, she spent the next 10 years working in Mother Baby, Neonatal, Medical Surgical, Emergency Room, and Family Practice units honing her patient care skills until her retirement from the Navy in 2009.

From there she transitioned to a position as a Population Health Nurse in Family Practice providing education and caring for babies, children, and adult patients ensuring they receive the best preventive care possible. Anne-Marie is the mother of three adult children and a favorite aunt of four nieces and two nephews. She and her husband now reside in Illinois with their two goofy and loveable dogs. With her new book “Help, My Baby Won’t Stop Crying!: A Simple Guide for New Parents” she hopes to encourage new parents to search out and take advantage of all available resources to help them raise their babies with the least amount of stress and most amount of fun, loving, and joyful memories. (Anne-Marie Springer, 2023)

“Help, My Baby Won’t Stop Crying!: A Simple Guide for New Parents” – If you have picked up this book, chances are that you have or will soon be having a baby in your home. While having a baby means countless cuddles, giggles, and love, it also means a crying baby and sleepless nights. If you are looking for sensible, compassionate advice to help you through your baby’s crying episodes, this book is your one stop solution. With over 24 years of expertise in Family Practice, Military, and Population Health Nursing, Anne-Marie will advise and guide you through your parenting journey. Anne-Marie has helped countless families as a tireless advocate for parents and children and has a deep commitment to sharing her knowledge and teaching the best practices for child care. So, take a deep breath and enjoy the truly amazing, challenging, and rewarding experience of raising your baby with the help of this book.

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New book release: ‘The In-Between: Life in the Micro’ by Christian Espinosa

‘The In-Between: Life in the Micro’ is the new book by Christian Espinosa. Photo: Christian Espinosa, used with permission.

Regardless of our life experiences, we all have those moments when life starts to make sense. Even then, we should always keep learning and growing as human beings. I like reading biographies and memoirs because the authors share what they have learned in the hopes of inspiring others to improve their lives. In his new memoir, Christian Espinosa shares the journey that transformed him into a compassionate global citizen. In “The In-Between: Life in the Micro,” he explains that some regrets do not hit you all at once. They seep in at the corners of your life, at night or on a long drive, until they become a refrain. Those are the worst regrets of all. Pick up your copy today from Amazon and read all about his fascinating journey. 

Christian Espinosa is an esteemed thought leader and best known as the bestselling author of “The Smartest Person in the Room,” a book that explores the limitations of seeking validation through achievement and the desire to be the brightest intellect in any room. He is also a successful entrepreneur, white hat hacker, captivating speaker, real estate investor, and heavy metal enthusiast. With a deep desire to inspire others to harness their innate wisdom, overcome perceived barriers, and summon the courage to tread new paths, Christian has written his latest book, “The In-Between: Life in the Micro.” This book chronicles his remarkable transformation from a “me against the world” mindset, cultivated during his tumultuous upbringing, to his evolution as a compassionate global citizen committed to uplifting humanity. (Christian Espinosa, 2023)

“The In-Between: Life in the Micro” – Christian Espinosa was living in a bubble, and it burst on May 9, 2022. It was the middle of the afternoon. As he and his partner Vanessa approached a major intersection, a blue car accelerated, ran the red light, and T-boned a black truck directly in front of them.

The blue car’s hood crumbled like an accordion to absorb the impact. Within seconds, its front end was completely smashed and its windows were broken. Then everything went out of focus, except for what he needed to do—assess the scene for safety, check on the drivers of the blue car and black truck, and call 911. Nothing else mattered—he felt a heightened sense of purpose.

He had always focused on one macro moment after another—the next mountain to climb or business to start. He had not spent any time appreciating the micro-moments—life in between the macros. He had been living in a macro-moment bubble.

The accident awakened in him a desire to paint a complete picture of who he wanted to be and how he wanted to approach his life. This is his story of learning how to value the in-between and prioritize consciously living in the micro.

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New book release: ‘Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)’ by Tal Storm

‘Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)’ is the new fantasy novel by Tal Storm. Photo: Tal Storm, used with permission.

Fantasy novels are so exciting to read because they often transport you to other worlds and realms filled with mythical and magical beings. Magic and a quest for power usually play a big part. If fantasy novels are your go to for escapist reads, consider today’s new book release. “Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” by Tal Storm is a dark fantasy story about a young noble girl named Darah Mata. She gets turned into a vampire by her uncle and is forced to learn the dark art of Necromancy. She is tortured for any of her failings and despite the pain, she still yearns for her freedom. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it? Pick up your copy of “Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” on Amazon and find out what happens to Darah.

Tal Storm is an author, a groundskeeper, and a small engine repairman. When not working on equipment, his mind wanders to another world filled with fun fantasy and sci-fi stories. Now, he wishes to share these tales with everyone who loves to share in the joy of fantasy. (Tal Storm, 2023)

“Death’s Lament (Alleria’s Domain)” – In Alleria, the Tel’eev Ascendency’s war of conquest sent ripples throughout the world. This is true for Darah Mata, who has been turned into a vampire by the machinations of her uncle. Now, she is forced to learn the dreaded magic of necromancy while being tortured for any failings. Will she be able to attain the freedom from this torment that she seeks?

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Necrohamster wearing a dark cloak. Photo: Tal Storm, used with permission.

New book release: ‘The Ed Gein Chronicles’ by Scott Bowser

‘The Ed Gein Chronicles’ is the new book by Scott Bowser. Photo: Scott Bowser, used with permission.

Even though I have read my fair share of true crime books, I admit the topic can be unsettling because the events really happened. These books are about real events and people, some of them dealing with serial killers. One of the best known is Ed Gein, who was a murderer, suspected serial killer, and body snatcher who committed the crimes around his hometown in Plainfield, Wisconsin. (Wikipedia) If you like true crime books and want to know more about Ed Gein, consider today’s new book release “The Ed Gein Chronicles” by Scott E Bower. It is available on Amazon and Goodreads.

Scott E. Bowser is the author of three non-fiction books, “Gein,” “The Travelers Guide to Ed Gein,” and “The Ed Gein Chronicles.” Scott was also on MGM Plus tv show “Psycho: The Lost Tapes of Ed Gein.” Born in 1964 in Kingsford, Michigan, he lived his young years in Neenah, Wisconsin. He always had an interest in true crime whether it be reading about it or watching it on tv. Now living in Wisconsin Rapids, he gives Ed Gein tours in his spare time in Plainfield. He keeps on studying about Ed Gein and serves on the Board of Directors for the Waushara County Historical Society & Museum. He is currently writing a screenplay for his first book “Gein.” (Scott E. Bowser, 2023)

“The Ed Gein Chronicles” – Edward Theodore Gein was one of the most notorious murderers in U.S. history. The particularly bizarre and morbid nature of his crimes shocked the world, even though it may never be known if he committed more than two murders. Besides the death of his brother in 1944 under mysterious circumstances, six people disappeared from Wisconsin towns of La Crosse and Plainfield between 1947 and 1957. Gein was conclusively linked to only two, though it is suspected there were more.

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New album release: Christmas at the Burchills

Christmas at the Burchills is the new album by Beth // James. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

On their new EP, Christmas at the Burchills, Jordan and Mikaela Burchill invite you into their home for the holidays. While the duo goes by the moniker Beth // James, Beth and James are in fact, their middle names. Both Jordan and Mikaela took an interest in music at a young age. Jordan grew up with a guitar in his hands, raised by musician parents, and Mikaela grew up at the studio, singing on records in Nashville since her elementary school years. The young songwriters met in music school and clicked immediately. They moved to Austin, Texas, after graduation, fell in love, and quickly became a duo. They have since released two EPs, one full-length record, and their song “Lion Eyes” was featured in Spike Lee’s Academy Award-winning film, “BlacKkKlansman.” Dubbed “masters of indie-folk” by Austin’s NPR station, KUTX, the Austin duo has cut their teeth touring all across the US, performing as Kerrville New Folk Finalists, and recently got back from a run in Europe and the UK where they played Germany’s only Americana music festival. (IV-PR, 2023)

With their latest EP, Beth // James balance their signature, indie-Americana sound with a healthy dose of varied holiday cheer. Out now, Christmas at the Burchills flies between classic Christmas sounds, touching down for an Elvis cover and Elvis-influenced original, a Hawaiian-infused shot of Christmas paradise, dusty Americana set in Marfa, Texas, and a candle-lit Yuletide ballad.

EP highlight “Tiki Christmas Land” imagines escaping winter heartbreak for Hawaii, drowning your sorrows in Mai Tais and December sun. It is simultaneously cozy as a sweater, and bursting with catchy tropical cheer. Meanwhile, “Marfa Christmas Lights” trades Hawaiian steel guitar for contemplative country western lap steel, serenading the mystical grandeur of west Texas in December. On piano ballad “The Christmas We Used to Know,” Mikaela explores childhood Christmas nostalgia and the difficulty of growing up. Like the writers of many classic Christmas songs, Mikaela grew up Jewish, explaining “as a kid I would always go to my childhood best friend’s house to spend Christmas with her and her family.”

Fans can stream or purchase Christmas at the Burchills in its entirety today by following this link. On December 15, the duo will celebrate their EP release with Beth // James & Friends Christmas Spectacular at Quack’s Soundspace in Austin. Tickets are available here.

Christmas at the Burchills track list:
Tiki Christmas Land
Marfa Christmas Lights
Santa Won’t You Deliver (My Baby This Winter)
Blue Christmas
The Christmas We Used To Know

Book highlight: ‘To Thrive or To Fall’ by Trinity Johnson

‘To Thrive or To Fall’ is a post apocalyptic novel by Trinity Johnson. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Post apocalyptic novels are usually set in the future after a major event changed the world people inhabited. They often explore possible responses to the destruction of the world or society and how they are trying to survive in their new surroundings. That is what makes them so fascinating and one of my favorite genres of science fiction. Today I would like to highlight one such novel: “To Thrive or To Fall” by Trinity Johnson. If you enjoy reading books set in a post-apocalyptic setting mixed with fantasy, science-fiction, action, and romance, then this is a story that you will surely enjoy. It is available on Barnes & Noble.

Trinity Johnson is a passionate author who enjoys writing purposeful books of different genres which are meant to teach and entertain. She is creating BagHead Scoop which is an ever-growing company founded with the belief of increasing the level of happiness through books and animation. There is also BookUp+Chill which is a YouTube channel that showcases book trailers to bring the story and characters to life. Between entertainment and teaching lessons, there is something for everyone. In her post apocalyptic novel “To Thrive or To Fall,” the result of radiation from nuclear war and the impact of a meteorite created a new world and has divided humanity into four kingdoms: Acropolis, Bunker 50, Oasis State, and Xanadu City. (Trinity Johnson, 2023)

“To Thrive or To Fall” – More than 100 years ago, World War III broke out amongst all countries. Nuclear war ravaged the planet and once it finally ended, the atmosphere was left with its radiation. To make matters worse, a meteorite struck the Earth and changed the world as our ancestors knew it. This event was called, ‘The Descent.’

However, something miraculous happened. When the radiation from the bio-weapons used in World War III mixed with the impact of the meteorite, a major chemical reaction spread everywhere, evolving humanity into something more. Now people are divided into four kingdoms: Acropolis which resides in the mountains, Bunker 50 which is made up of bunkers, Oasis State that dwells near the lakes, and Xanadu City which is underground.

Easy-going Fleur Solace from Xanadu and stern Atlas Aslan from Acropolis were close friends as children. But after a terrible misunderstanding, they were forced apart by their nations. Ten years later, the two young adults have become the ambassadors of their kingdoms and must work together to unify their people.

However, with tensions from the past, new personalities, potential traitors, and seemingly orchestrated attacks, will they be able to win against each other and the dangerous political arena?

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‘To Thrive or To Fall’ book trailer
Meet the characters of ‘To Thrive or To Fall.’

Celebrate the holidays with foodie gifts and merchandise

Bakery Lorraine’s pecan pie. Photo: Bakery Lorraine, used with permission.

With the Holiday season upon us and people searching for gifts to give and ways to celebrate this year, nationally recognized pastry shop Bakery Lorraine, flavor factory Twang and the iconic Lone Star Beer have some gift ideas. (Bakery Lorraine, Twang, Lone Star Beer, 2023)

Bakery Lorraine offers delectable pastries perfect for any holiday gathering this season, including holiday pies and a traditional Bûche De Noël available for local pick up at all locations. Twang presents a festive stuffed stocking filled with cocktail, beer and seltzer salts and koozies that are available for national shipping while supplies last. Lone Star Beer offers limited time merch in partnership with Morgan Mercantile that’s available for national shipping.

Bakery Lorraine

Bakery Lorraine offers delectable holiday pies and traditional Bûche De Noël for pre-order from Monday, December 11 to Sunday, December 24. Items need to be pre-ordered with 72 hours notice to the desired pickup date through the custom order request page. The traditional Bûche De Noël is made with tart cherries, vanilla mousse, and chocolate sponge cake soaked in a spiced kirsch syrup.

Each of Bakery Lorraine’s nine inch holiday pies serve between 8 – 10 people and can be ordered for pick up at all Bakery Lorraine locations.

Flavors include:

  • Whiskey Pecan – made with Jack Daniels No. 7
  • Dutch Apple – made using five varieties of apples and topped with a cinnamon streusel 
  • Apple Cranberry – made using a variety of apples similar to their Dutch Apple Pie but cranberries are added for a beautiful flavor and extra color and topped with Christmas spice

Price: 

  • Bûche De Noël – $48
  • Whiskey Pecan Pie – $28
  • Dutch Apple – $32
  • Apple Cranberry – $32

Twang

Twang offers their festive Twang Stuffed Stocking this holiday season while supplies last and available for national shipping. Customers can use the code “HOLIDAYCHEER” for 10% off stockings. Twang is a family owned manufacturer of premium flavored salts, seasonings, cocktail mixes and more based in Texas.

Packed with Twang favorites, the festive stocking includes:

  • 1 Twang Stocking
  • 2 Christmas Koozies
  • 4 Beer Salts (Lime, Lemon Lime, Cucumber Chile Lime & Grapefruit)
  • 1 Twang-A-Rita Rimming Salt (Chile Lime)
  • 1 Mango Chile Twangerz

Price: $20

Lone Star Beer

Lone Star Beer partners with Morgan Mercantile for the perfect Texan gift this holiday season. The national beer of Texas offers limited time merch for guests to order through its online shop beginning Thursday, December 7.

All items are available for national shipping, including:

  • Patch Rope Hat
  • Pennants
  • Diner Mug
  • Pin
  • Beanies
  • Trucker Hat
  • Hoodies
  • Crewnecks

 

 

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Book of the week: ‘The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug’ by Allen Y Kimble, Jr

‘The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug’ makes the perfect holiday for dog lovers. Photo: Allen Y Kimble, Jr, used with permission.

Don’t look now, but there are only 14 days until Christmas and if you still need some gift ideas, may I suggest a book? For the dog lover on your list, especially if he or she likes pugs, consider “The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug” by Allen Y Kimble, Jr. When Vinny’s family had to move from Florida to Arizona after the September 11 attacks, Vinny The Pug had to adjust from living in lush and green surroundings to an arid desert. He adapted, of course, and learned to pose atop boulders. Follow Vinny’s journey in this gorgeous picture book that is perfect for dog lovers everywhere. Aside from pictures, it includes coloring projects and is suitable for all ages. It is available on Amazon. Learn more about the Kickstarter campaign.

Allen Yhorst Kimble, Jr is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana and grew up in the mid-1950s. Upon turning a young man, he entered the United States Air Force and served one year in Vietnam, eight years in Asia, and a total of 11 years total service time. While in South East Asia, he picked up photography as a hobby, which he still enjoy today. In 2001, he acquired a little pug in Orlando, Florida and named him Vinny. As a result of the 9-11 Terrorist Attacks, he took the family out west to Phoenix where Vinny learned to climb and pose atop boulders. His new book “The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug” is a picture story book of his best friend Vinny. (Allen Y Kimble, Jr, 2023)

“The Life And Times of Vinny The Pug” – This is a true-life picture book of the life and times of Vinny the Pug. It began on September 12, 2001 following the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington. Florida’s economy was left in shambles after the attacks. Overnight Orlando’s tourism industry ground to a halt, forcing Vinny’s human to move the family. They went out west to Arizona to find better employment opportunities.

Vinny The Pug atop a boulder. Photo: Allen Y Kimble, Jr., used with permission.

When they arrived, Vinny was still just a puppy, not yet one year old. However, he was mature enough to be surprised by what he saw. Arizona was very different from what he remembered back home in Florida. Orlando was lush with greenery; there were trees, vegetation, and lakes everywhere. All at once it hit the little pug; his new home in Phoenix, Arizona was in the desert. This book of photographs shows how the little pug adapted to the harsh realities of living in Arizona. It shows how Vinny the Pug came to appreciate his new home in the the desert. Before a year had passed, he had even launched a challenge to set a new Guinness World Record.

Vinny the Pug’s picture book is an enjoyable experience that will work well in classrooms. It is suitable for all ages from 5 through adults.

It includes:

  • 50 – Color Pictures
  • 87 – Black & White Graphic Arts
  • 5″ x 11″ pages for best viewing
  • Includes coloring projects

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New book release: ‘The Perfect Fit’ by Gena Palumbo

‘The Perfect Fit’ is the new children’s book by Gena Palumbo. Photo: Amazon

Children’s books are so versatile. They can be entertaining, educational, and perfect for story time to bond at the end of the day. Introducing children to reading at an early age is an excellent way to get them started on a good habit that will last a lifetime. Today’s new book release is a children’s book by Gena Palumbo titled “The Perfect Fit.” It is a beautifully illustrated tale about finding one’s place in the world. With the holiday shopping well under way, why not pick up a copy for the child or children on your shopping list? It is available on Amazon.

Gena Palumbo is a writer from New England and new to motherhood, which inspired her to start writing children’s books. (Gena Palumbo, 2023)

“The Perfect Fit” is a charming children’s book that tells readers that “there is a place out there for everyone.” It is a perfect tool for parents to discuss themes of exploration, belonging, and self-discovery with their children. Reading age: baby to 7 years.

Embark on an enchanting adventure with Roo, a charming and curious character whose quest to find her place in the world is both inspiring and touching. As Roo navigates through vibrant landscapes, she discovers the true essence of belonging and the joy that comes with it. Join Roo on her remarkable journey and discover the perfect fit for yourself.

Rave reviews for “The Perfect Fit:”

**Vivid and Captivating Illustrations** – “Each turn of the page in “The Perfect Fit” reveals stunning, colorful artwork that breathes life into Roo’s world. These illustrations are not just visually appealing, but also effectively convey Roo’s emotions and the story’s deeper messages. It’s engaging use of font delights reader’s attention from the first page!”

**A Tool for Emotional Growth** – “This book is an excellent resource for parents an educators to introduce important themes and helps build emotional intelligence in children, guiding them to understand and appreciate the beauty in self-discovery.”

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New book release: ‘Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective’ by Siddhesh Dongare

‘Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective’ is the new book by Siddhesh Dongare. Photo: Shift Life Perspective.

As distinct individuals, our journeys are unique and can be challenging at times. One way to improve our lives is to dare to change our perspective on what we expect out of life. Today’s new book release is a self help guide for personal and professional development by Siddhesh Dongare titled “Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective.” His goal is to provide a resource that can inspire, motivate, and guide individuals facing various life challenges. Through the written word, he hopes to share the valuable lessons and perspectives that have resonated with those in his immediate circle, extending the positive impact to a wider audience. So if you are looking for expert advice on making your life’s journey a little easier, consider this guide. It is available exclusively on Amazon India.

Siddhesh Dongare is a career coach and mentor who believes in the power of changing your perspective to transform your life. He wants to encourage readers to play an active role in their personal growth journey. As a storyteller and an advocate for this type of mindset, his vision is to empower individuals to embrace change, cultivate empathy, and navigate the complexities of life through the lens of a changing perspective. Students and individuals who perceive him as a mentor have shared how his insights have positively influenced and motivated them. He recognizes that his strength lies in offering a different point of view when confronted with problems or challenges. By documenting his experiences and insights, he hopes to reach a broader audience beyond his current network. In his new book “Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective,” discover the power within you and begin a transformative journey of self-discovery and self-empowerment. (Siddhesh Dongare, 2023)

“Shape Your Life By Changing Perspective”– In a world filled with diverse and unique experiences, it is easy to feel lost, trapped, or overwhelmed by the challenges life throws your way. Life can feel like a puzzle, and changing your viewpoint might be the key to finding the missing piece. Dare to start this empowering exploration now. Do not just let life happen to you—take charge, shape your future, and discover amazing opportunities when you choose to see the world in a new way. The author tells his own story about how having different perspectives can make a big difference.

Have you ever felt stuck, facing tough challenges, and wanting a better, more fulfilling life? If yes, this book is for you. Life can be tricky, with ups and downs that leave us searching for something more. This book is for anyone open to new ideas, ready to  think differently, and wanting practical help for a happier life. Whether you are young or older, going through a tough time, or just wanting positive changes, this book is a guide.

It is rooted in psychology, mindset changes, and tools to make good things happen. It is about seeing the world in a new way to transform your life. The way we perceive things shapes our lives, and in this book, you’ll find suggestions and instructions for shifting your viewpoint. Whether you are dealing with personal or work issues or just wanting a better life, this book will give you valuable insights and practical strategies to help you reshape your life with the power of perspective. Each chapter serves as a step towards a more fulfilling life. Are you ready for a journey of self-discovery and positive change? Let this book be your guide to reshaping your life with a new or fresh perspective.

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