Friday Finds | 05-09-2025 | Welcome
Happy Friday, friends! 🌵
I am making my way through the Southwest. I planned to go to Colorado first, then swing into New Mexico and Arizona. However, Mother Nature had other ideas. The roads and passes on our route were closed due to snow—lots of snow! Since road trips are all about no set plans, we simply adjusted the route and headed straight to the warmth!
This post is running late. I hoped to catch up at the hotels, but have been too tired to concentrate in the evenings. I'm moving into a house tomorrow, so hopefully I won't be spending as much time packing up and switching hotels. We found a place that's pretty central to the areas we want to visit. I think I will have a bit more time to write in the next few weeks, but no promises. I am having a blast!
Peace & Love,
Gina
Happy Mother's Day to everyone who celebrates!!!
Friday Finds | 05-09-2025 | Wrap-up of Book Reviews, Spotlights, Posts
The Drowners by David A. Anderson is a poignant coming-of-age novel that explores the complexities of adolescence, identity, and self-discovery, focusing on LGBTQI themes.
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Discover the magic of numbers with Mrs. Wiggles and the Numbers: Patterns! This playful and engaging book introduces young readers to the joy of math through colorful characters, rhythmic repetition, and easy-to-follow number patterns.
Enter to win an autographed copy! (Low entries, your chances are good!)
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Love Letters to Me, Myself, and Him by Rayan Khamis is a poetic meditation on love, longing, and spiritual connection. Through intimate reflections, the author explores the beauty of self-discovery and the hope of meeting a destined soulmate.
Enter to win a $10 Amazon/B&N Gift Card.
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In Search of Recognition: The Story of Search and Rescue in British Columbia by Jim McAllister explores the history and evolution of volunteer search and rescue efforts in the province. Drawing on over 45 years of personal experience, McAllister highlights the dedication, challenges, and accomplishments of SAR volunteers.
Enter to win a $10 Amazon/B&N Gift Card.
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Prepare to be swept into a kingdom of secrets, prophecy, and power. The Girl of Many Crowns by D.H. Morris is a gripping fantasy tale where destiny weaves through danger, and a young heroine must rise to claim more than just a throne—she must uncover the truth behind who she truly is.
An author-signed copy of THE GIRL OF MANY CROWNS, plus bag, shirt, and other assorted prizes (one winner) (USA and Canada) (ends Jun 3)
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Strap in for another wild ride through the stars. Syndicate Moon by Scott Killion picks up where Stellar Heir left off, delivering high-stakes space drama, galactic intrigue, and a hero forced to navigate loyalty, legacy, and looming threats.
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Splendificent 1 & 2 by Dacy Alex is a genre-bending urban fantasy packed with outrageous magic, sharp satire, and a cast of wild supernatural women. Perfect for readers who crave humor, heat, and a fresh twist on fantasy tropes.
Enter to win a $25 Amazon or B&N gift card.
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Discover the thought-provoking insights in God and Petroleum by Roberto Aguilera. This bold exploration of faith, fossil fuels, and the future of energy closely examines the intersections of science, religion, and global sustainability.
Enter to win a $10 Amazon/B&N gift card.
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The Guardian Awaits: Fata Morgana by Pamela Ackerson blends historical fiction, suspense, and science fiction elements, offering readers a thrilling journey through time and a gripping narrative of crime and intrigue.
Enter to win a $10 Amazon/B&N gift card.
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Here's a look back at last week's Friday Finds, in case you missed it
Friday Finds | 05-09-2025 | Recipe
Tender and fluffy Navajo fry bread! As far as I know, this is the original recipe for Navajo bread. It tastes great with honey and butter. The Navajo put chiles, cheese, onion, lettuce, and beans on them, and call them Nava tacos. (Click images for recipe)
Friday Finds | 05-09-2025 | Fun Time
Do you have a favorite Southwest food?
Share your answer in the comment section to be included in the next fun-time drawing!
I can't say that I have a favorite yet, but I'm sampling so many new southwestern foods on my trip. I'll have to share more when I get back home.
Friday Finds | 05-09-2025 |Independent Author News
There is nothing new to report, although my internet access has been limited. If I missed something, I'll include it in next week's edition.
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Friday Finds | 05-09-2025 | Fun Creative Finds
DIY 5D Diamond Painting Kits for Adults - Southwestern American Home Decor Canvas 30x40 cm/12x16 inches
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That’s it for this week’s Friday Finds! Whether you're here for the books, the giveaways, or just a little peek into my Southwest adventure, I’m so glad you stopped by. Don’t forget to share your favorite Southwest foods in the comments—I’d love to include your picks in next week’s fun-time feature. Until then, stay curious, stay kind, and I’ll catch you next Friday…hopefully a little more unpacked and a lot more rested.
With gratitude and sunshine,
Gina 🌞
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[…] a look back at last week’s Friday Finds, in case you missed […]
Hope you had a very Happy Mother's Day! I can't say I have a favorite Southwest food because I'm not sure of what all foods are from there.
Same to you. I’m sure your girls made it a special day!
Hi Gina!
Happy Mother's Day! The Navajo bread looks great! Have a wonderful trip and please post some pictures.
I love guacamole! Carnitas tacos, chimichangas, authentic refried beans and basically everything! Happy Mother's day, and have fun on your southwest journey!
Gina ~ hope you're enjoying your trip to the max!
Book looks like great read love title, book cover & excerpt looking forward to reading this book in print format so I can read & review it
Couldn't get into any of the giveaways or links
You should be able to click on any image or highlighted book title to go to that post & the giveaways are toward the bottom of the page. Let me know if that still doesn't work & I’ll see if I can figure out the problem,
Happy Mother’s Day weekend and safe travels!