My Very Good, My Very Bad Dog by Chicken Soup for the Soul

Who can resist a good dog story? Dog stories are always sure to put a smile on my face! So, My Very Good, My Very Bad Dog by Chicken Soup for the Soul is a very welcome addition to my book collection. A lovely little volume with plenty of stories of Fido touching hearts, saving his person, teaching valuable lessons and just plain being entertaining.

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Raising Great Kids by Chicken Soup for the Soul

**Disclosure: I did receive a copy of this Chicken Soup for the Soul volume to bring you this review. All opinions are 100% my own. No compensation was received for this post.

For some reason this year, it seems like my daughter is taking longer and longer to leave school. As she gets older, she lingers more and more with friends. So, I end up having a bit of time to relax in the car while waiting for her. I bring along a book so I can sneak some reading in. Often, I grab a volume of Chicken Soup for the Soul. Recently, I have brought along Raising Great Kids.

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Think Possible by Chicken Soup for the Soul

**Disclosure: I did receive a complimentary copy of this volume for the purpose of a review. All opinions are 100% my own.

Positive thought can do wonders. Even if it doesn't lead to a miracle, staying positive and envisioning positive outcomes can bolster your esteem and help you navigate life's rough patches. Life can be tough when we just don't feel like we have what it takes and we feel that all the chips are against us. One of the more recent volumes of Chicken Soup for the Soul, Think Possible, is the perfect book to pick up when things just don't seem to be going your way. The collection of stories illustrate how thinking positive can change the course of your life, help you get through tough times and flourish as a person.

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Dreams and Premonitions: Chicken Soup for the Soul {Book Review}

Winter is the perfect time for catching up on reading. Every year, Chicken Soup for the Soul publishes a new selection of inspiring and motivating stories. My favorite volume each year is the one that focuses on messages from beyond. little whispers that inexplicably guide our actions in ways that change and quite possibly save our lives. So, I was eager to read this year's Dreams and Premonitions. And, yes, it did not disappoint!

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Volunteering & Giving Back by Chicken Soup for the Soul

**Disclosure: I did receive a complimentary book in order to bring this review you to. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

One of the more recent volumes of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Volunteering & Giving Back is equally motivational and inspirational. Additionally, it stands as a testament to the good works being done each and every day that often go unseen. If you are looking for a new passion or a new way to help, this volume is certainly full of plenty of ideas! With the holidays swiftly approaching, many of us began looking for ways to help the world and make life better for others. However, volunteers are needed all year and this volume will show you not only how inspiring volunteering can be but how much it really means those you are helping.

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Chicken Soup for the Soul: Hope and Miracles {Book Review}

**Disclosure: We did receive a complimentary copy of this book in order to make an accurate review. All opinions are 100% my own.

One of the strengths of Chicken Soup for the Soul is its ability to pull together collection after collection of uplifting stories. My favorite volumes in the series are the ones that relate stories of messages from beyond. We all have had that feeling that someone that we lost is trying to speak to us. So, I always marvel when I read another account of someone who has received a message from beyond. Some of the stories are so unexpected but they always seem to charm and provide a feeling of comfort.

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Chicken Soup for the Soul for Moms and Kids

**Disclosure: Complimentary copies were received in order to conduct an accurate review. No compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

I read two recent volumes of Chicken Soup for the Soul and found that the two while unique pair well in a way. They each touch on bonds and inspirations that begin to motivate us in childhood. Thanks to Mom focuses on that special bond that we each have with Mom. Be the Best You Can Be provides inspiration and encouragement through childhood events and the eyes of children. Both really motivate from lessons that we learn in younger years that can still be carried on through our whole lives.

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Reboot Your Life: A Chicken Soup for the Soul for People Navigating a Life Change

**Disclosure: As a Chicken Soup for the Soul blogger, we received a copy of this volume in order to bring you an accurate review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

Sometimes we need that extra little push, a little extra incentive to take that leap to change our lives. Often, we are inspired by circumstances and life hiccups that we could not predict--the birth of a child, the downsizing of a company, the death of a loved one, a chance meeting. Other times, this inspiration comes from a fire within us. Life changes and challenges are things we all share and we each approach them in different ways.

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The Power of Forgiveness {Chicken Soup for the Soul}

**Disclosure: We received a copy of this book in order to bring you this review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% our own.

Recently, I read Chicken Soup for the Soul's The Power of Forgiveness. We all have times when we have to let go of something holding us back whether it is something we have done, something someone else has done or we have had some type of loss. Anecdotes about overcoming these types of setbacks can often be among the most inspiring stories read.

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Touched by an Angel by Chicken Soup for the Soul {Review}

**Disclosure: We received a complimentary copy of Touched by an Angel in order to conduct an accurate review. No compensation was received and all opinions are 100% my own.

Don't you love stories that send a little shiver up your spine--but in a good way? You know, those little moments in life that can't be explained except through an act from the world beyond. Chicken Soup for the Soul's recent Touched by an Angel edition is a volume full of these stories. Each anecdote provides an uplifting message that will leave you comforted with a smile on your face.

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The Dog Did What? A Chicken Soup for the Soul Dedicated to our Furry Friends

**Disclosure: We received a complimentary copy of The Dog Did What? as an ambassador for Chicken Soup for the Soul. No compensation was received. All opinions are 100% our own.

I must admit--I have quite a fondness for all things dog. Those who know me well, know that my dogs are people and their stories can often be larger than life. I mean, what better way to break up the day or cheer someone up than by relating a tale of canine high jinx. So, of course, I could not wait to read Chicken Soup for the Soul's The Dog Did What?

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Now Matter How Far You Travel, You Are Not Far From Home: Home Sweet Home by Chicken Soup for the Soul

**Disclosure: We did receive a complimentary copy of Home Sweet Home for the purpose of conducting a review. No compensation was received. All opinions are 100% our own.

I am always amazed by how many volumes of Chicken Soup for the Soul there are. Then, I read one and realize there are always stories--our stories. We all have so much to share and with that sharing comes the understanding that yes, I have been there. We share comfort in knowing others have thought what we thought or experienced what we have experienced.

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Moms, Can You Survive Multitasking? Chicken Soup for the Soul has the Guide for You!

**Disclosure: We received a copy of this book for the purpose of conducting an accurate review. No compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

I am always amazed by the shear number of selections that Chicken Soup for the Soul has. Just when I think they quite possibly have a volume for every situation, they come up with a topic I didn't think about. Plus, all of the anecdotes included within really fosters a sense of camaraderie between all of us. One of the latest volumes of Chicken Soup for the Soul, The Multitasking Mom's Survival Guide, certainly does not disappoint and packs in enough humor to have you openly chuckling while reading the stories of mothers that have been there.

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Think Positive For Kids {An Uplifting Edition of Chicken Soup for the Soul for Kids}

Recently, I read had the opportunity to read Think Positive for Kids, part of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. I was particularly interested by this volume because it is directed towards children rather than adults as is customary with this series. When you think about it, a volume for children is a great fit for Chicken Soup for the Soul. The series is known for short, snappy stories that teach us something about life and ourselves. These stories each encompass a short pep talk for kids {and adults} of any age!

My daughter is growing by leaps and bounds, both physically and mentally. So, I know that there will be a lot of questions about life, fitting in and becoming part of the world to help my daughter answer in the near future. While reading Think Positive for Kids, I was transported back to a time when I was sorting out many of these things myself. I guess, in a way, I am still sorting some of these things out and always will be! This volume contains a

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Miraculous Messages From Heaven by Chicken Soup for the Soul

Throughout life, we all experience moments when things seem to fall into place in such a way to leave you thinking that possibly, just possibly, someone is helping you from beyond. There are other times when we are stuck in a low place in our lives and all we need is some sign to help us go on. Then, a message seemingly from someone we lost shows up to give us the inspiration and strength that we need. Chicken Soup for the Soul has collected a moving round of stories about these blessings from those in the world beyond. I recently read Miraculous Messages from Heaven and found myself quite touched by the anecdotes including in this latest volume.

Several of the authors relate stories of signs left by loved ones in unexpected places---strawberry plants that seem to just appear, an iris that blooms out of season, the appearance of golden ladybugs--signs that loved ones are saying "hi!" Then, there are eerie stories like waking up in the middle of the night at the exact time of a dear one's death or an odd set of circumstances leading people to the site of an accident just in time to help or a phone message from a father recently lost. These connections are wonderfully written, but be sure to keep a tissue in hand while reading!

Miraculous Messages is an uplifting read for all of us and those that are working through a recent loss or have had similar experiences will feel an instant connection to the authors. Since Chicken Soup for the Soul books include a collection of small stories, you can easily read the book for small respites throughout the day. However, I did find myself pretty engaged and invested in reading the next story. So, you may not want to put it down! This addition to the Chicken Soup for the Soul collection is truly a lovely volume!

**Disclosure: We received a complimentary copy of Miraculous Messages from Heaven for the purpose of an accurate review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

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Chicken Soup for the Soul Soup Prize Pack Winner!!!!

Congratulations to Inda! Inda has won our giveaway for a pack of 4 Chicken Soup for the Soul soups! I have emailed Inda and she has 48 hours to respond our the prize will be forfeited. Thank you to everyone that has entered this giveaway!

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Chicken Soup for the Soul Soup Prize Pack Giveaway!!! {Ends 12/1/13}

**Disclosure: As part of the Chicken Soup for the Soul Blogger Network, we received a sample of Chicken Noodle Soup to try. No compensation was received. All opinions are 100% our own.

We have had the opportunity to read several of this year's new additions to the Chicken Soup for the Soul Collection. Each volume is overflowing with poignant, sentimental and at times quite funny stories. Since the stories are short, they provide the perfect little asides during the day. Some of you may not know that Chicken Soup for the Soul also has a line of food featuring very comforting soups. The food line is a new way that Chicken Soup for the Soul is spreading comfort to families. So, while you are reading your Chicken Soup for the Soul books, you can also sit down to a warm cup of soup!

Chicken Soup for the Soul soups come in easy to use tetra packs. The line includes hearty minestrone, chicken tortilla, lentil & beef, Southwestern-style black bean, tomato basil, beef barley, spicy thai-style chicken noodle and---of course--chicken noodle! The line goes beyond offering soup and also includes broth, meal starters, pasta sauce and soup toppers.

We did have the opportunity to try the chicken noodle soup. The broth was pretty thick and seemed nice for a cold day or when you are feeling a bit under the weather. The soup was so easy to make and would be a good starter for other recipes. The Chicken Soup for the Soul website even has a section for recipes featuring their soups. I am famous for sneaking in extra veggies, so this soup is an easy one that you can add to.

To hear about the development of the new line, you can watch the short video below featuring Ann Newmark the publisher and co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul as well as Chef John Doherty.




One purpose of this new food line is to help speed up the food prep process. The products help that rushed mom or dad to put a meal together quickly or that person feeling under the weather to make something nourishing without much fuss.

Interested in trying some of the new soups? Well, Chicken Soup for the Soul has so graciously offered one four pack of assorted soups for us to giveaway! The giveaway will end December 1, 2013 and  is open to U.S. residents 18-years-old and older. Chicken Soup for the Soul is responsible for sending the pack to the winner. The prize is a random assortment of four soups. You may enter below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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It's Christmas! {with a little Chicken Soup for the Soul}

 

Reading a book by the beautifully lit Christmas tree always gives me a warm and fuzzy feeling. There is just something so comforting about curling up by the tree with a book and a cup of hot chocolate in hand. Chicken Soup for the Soul books are delightful reads full of inspirational, whimsical and even funny stories. With such a huge selection of books, any Chicken Soup for the Soul book would be a great choice for reading by the light of a festive tree.

Recently, we received a copy of one of Chicken Soup for the Souls new titles, It's Christmas! This year, I am totally into the Christmas spirit. In fact, you may soon find me dowsed with tinsel! Reading this newest addition has been putting a smile on my face all week. The stories are funny, thought provoking and touching. I especially enjoyed the section on pets and the holidays. While reading, I spent some time reminiscing about my own furbies and their hijinx during the holiday season. I am especially looking forward to this Christmas because it will be the second for our Australian Shepherd rescue. Now that she is totally integrated, I can't wait to see how much fun she has!

From Christmas medical miracles to those secret elves surprising families down on their luck to family holiday pranks {how long can you pass around stinky cheese for?} to Christmas through children's eyes, there is a little sparkle of the holiday spirit for everyone. Even the cover of the book is adorable. The volume is quite a cute holiday gift for someone special! On the back, there is a picture of hot cocoa. So, pair it with a package of holiday cocoa and your gift is ready to go!

**Disclosure: We received a complimentary copy of It's Christmas! for the purpose of an accurate review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

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From Lemons to Lemonade with Chicken Soup for the Soul

Disclosure: We did receive a complimentary copy of this book to facilitate a review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

During any busy day, we all need a quick aside. A little time to escape, learn something new about yourself or a way of thinking is uplifting and refreshing. The Chicken Soup for the Soul books are perfect for squeezing in a little "me" time here and there.

Each book is full of short real life stories that can help you gain a little perspective in the midst of a crazy day. With this type of a format, you can leave a book on your coffee table or throw one in your bag and read whenever and wherever.

Recently, I read Chicken Soup for the Soul's From Lemons to Lemonade. This new addition to the series contains a collection of accounts about rising above hardship and turning negative situations into positive ones. While reading, I followed the authors through their struggles with horrible spouses, health issues, job losses, family tragedies and more. Some how, each was able to turn their situation around and demonstrate strength through life. Since each account is only a few pages long at most, one can easily pick up this book and read a story here and there for a little uplifting.

Some of these accounts will really tug at your heart. One that particularly stands out is told by a single mother that eked out a living from a part time job to keep her family afloat. She did her best to afford what she could for her children but the family really had to stretch their dollars. One day, money began to appear in the mother's purse. At first she was puzzled. However, she soon discovered that her four young children worked odd jobs and then deposited the money into her purse. The story is very touching. What wonderful children!

Along with each story, there is a quote. Just like each story, each quote is meaningful. From Lemons to Lemonade is a nice addition to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. The book makes for a good a gift as well as a volume to have on hand for a little encouragement.

Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things. ~Robert Brault

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Chicken Soup for the Soul - Parenthood

It’s always an uplifting experience to read a title from the Chicken Soup for the Soul anthologies.  I just finished “Parenthood – 101 Heartwarming and Humorous Stories about the Joys of Raising   (disclosure: we received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review).
Children of All Ages,” by authors Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and Amy Newmark.

The book follows the Chicken Soup formula: presenting short inspiring tales from different contributors; here, they relate the joys and tribulations of childrearing.  The book is equal parts heartstring-tugging and funny.  Tales range, for instance, from a newborn who needs emergency surgery, to a tired mom thwarted in her efforts to go to bed early, to a dad’s musings on his daughter growing up, to a mom’s effort to communicate to her son with autism.

While some might view these types of stories as schmaltzy, for me, they are a reminder that every family has its own particular situations to deal with.  People have problems, make mistakes and don’t have all the answers.  But somehow, the joys of having a child come through and (hopefully) outweigh the negatives.

There were a few stories that resonated with me.  “Priorities” details a father’s feeling bogged down by the minutiae of life (bills, household tasks, etc.) until he receives a wake-up call in the form of his toddler’s scream.  “Suddenly, nothing in the world was imperative except making sure that my girl was okay.”   Thankfully, she was and he was left with a readjusted view of life.

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