I'm not a monagamous knitter and I'm not a monagamous reader either. I have multiple books going at a time. Here is what I was enjoying last week:
Cahokia is my current non-fiction history selection. It's very informative, and has me planning a field trip to Cahokia this spring.
II Peter - This is what our Sunday School class is reading and I finished it last week.
The Choice is Yours - This is my Bible study book. I try to read a few chapters each week.
The World by Laura Ingalls Wilder - This was my impulse pick-up at the library Saturday. I didn't need another book, but this one is very good, mainly a botanical survey of the areas that Laura and her family lived. Although botany isn't really my thing, the historical bits of my favorite stories make it very interesting.
I hope my selections encourage you to pick up a book and that you enjoy it!
***This post contains affiliate links.
Showing posts with label Book Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Book Reviews. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
Friday, January 12, 2018
Harry Potter
What was I doing on June 26, 1997? Hmmmmm......
Oh yeah,
I was 8 months pregnant with our first son and just moved to a new home, my husband had a new job and we were trying to get settled in.
What makes this date significant?
That's the day Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone was released by JK Rowling.
Now, we all know I'm a reader, so how long did it take me to get my hands on a copy? About 20 years.
Yep
I was a new mother as those books started coming out and although I heard ALL about them from everywhere I just wasn't interested. I barely read "young adult" books when I was a young adult, why would I be interested in reading them now??
But I watched the movies, right?
Nope. Sure didn't. That was November 14, 2001.
I had son #2. 9/11/2001 was still very fresh for me and I basically watched news 24/7. When it came out on DVD I remember that my husband rented it, but I still wasn't interested.
Boy, was I late to the game.
My friend had been urging me to give them a try and with my newfound love of audiobooks, I decided that I had nothing to lose.
I fell in love. JK Rowlings is a fantastic author. Really. I zipped through all 7 books (on audio) and was really sad last week when I finished the series. Harry Potter isn't just a kids book, its a saga about growing up, good vs evil and character making the difference in a multitude of situations. So, if you haven't given them a listen, I urge you too.
And if you haven't started listening to audiobooks, why not? I'm telling you, without audiobooks or podcasts I would be lost. I listen while I am cooking, cleaning, driving and knitting. Audiobooks have taken a significant spot in my entertainment time. I'm grateful for the convenience and encourage you to "take back" a little of your time with an auditory experience that you won't regret.
**This post contains affiliate links
Oh yeah,
I was 8 months pregnant with our first son and just moved to a new home, my husband had a new job and we were trying to get settled in.
What makes this date significant?
That's the day Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone was released by JK Rowling.
Now, we all know I'm a reader, so how long did it take me to get my hands on a copy? About 20 years.
Yep
I was a new mother as those books started coming out and although I heard ALL about them from everywhere I just wasn't interested. I barely read "young adult" books when I was a young adult, why would I be interested in reading them now??
But I watched the movies, right?
Nope. Sure didn't. That was November 14, 2001.
I had son #2. 9/11/2001 was still very fresh for me and I basically watched news 24/7. When it came out on DVD I remember that my husband rented it, but I still wasn't interested.
Boy, was I late to the game.
My friend had been urging me to give them a try and with my newfound love of audiobooks, I decided that I had nothing to lose.
I fell in love. JK Rowlings is a fantastic author. Really. I zipped through all 7 books (on audio) and was really sad last week when I finished the series. Harry Potter isn't just a kids book, its a saga about growing up, good vs evil and character making the difference in a multitude of situations. So, if you haven't given them a listen, I urge you too.
And if you haven't started listening to audiobooks, why not? I'm telling you, without audiobooks or podcasts I would be lost. I listen while I am cooking, cleaning, driving and knitting. Audiobooks have taken a significant spot in my entertainment time. I'm grateful for the convenience and encourage you to "take back" a little of your time with an auditory experience that you won't regret.
**This post contains affiliate links
Tuesday, January 02, 2018
Happy New Year 2018
Happy New Year!
One of my 2017 goals was to read/listen to 52 books and I made it (54 actually!)
I thought I would review some of my favorites over the next few weeks.
The first one I wanted to share with you is:
I'm not sure how I came across this book. It just popped up on my radar and I gave it a go.
This book follows the lives of a teenage girl and her parents, moving back and forth from present to past, interweaving their many adventures together nicely. The main story line is her parents search for the real life Dracula in history and how their searching leads to many dramatic events that change their lives, and the life of their daughter, forever. Rich cultural descriptions of places visited make the reader feel like they are actually on the journeys with the characters.
I couldn't put the book down and was so sad to see it end.
If you are looking for a good book to kickstart your 2018 reading list, this would be a great one to try.
**This post contains affiliate links.
One of my 2017 goals was to read/listen to 52 books and I made it (54 actually!)
I thought I would review some of my favorites over the next few weeks.
The first one I wanted to share with you is:
I'm not sure how I came across this book. It just popped up on my radar and I gave it a go.
This book follows the lives of a teenage girl and her parents, moving back and forth from present to past, interweaving their many adventures together nicely. The main story line is her parents search for the real life Dracula in history and how their searching leads to many dramatic events that change their lives, and the life of their daughter, forever. Rich cultural descriptions of places visited make the reader feel like they are actually on the journeys with the characters.
I couldn't put the book down and was so sad to see it end.
If you are looking for a good book to kickstart your 2018 reading list, this would be a great one to try.
**This post contains affiliate links.
Friday, May 23, 2014
REVIEW: A Nation Under Judgement: One Nation Apart from God
***This product was received for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the CWA Review Crew.***
A Nation Under Judgement: One Nation Apart from God by Richard Capriola explores the history of the United States from a Christian perspective, effectively exposing our Christian roots and heritage. Building on that he takes a look at the rise and fall of other countries throughout history. Finally Mr. Capriola explores several aspects of current culture in our country and makes a terrifying case for why God might choose to remove His hand of protection from our country.
I consider myself a learned person and have for years discussed the downfall of the United States with anyone who would listen. Even considering my rather "educated" background, I was horrified as I read through the chapters of this book. Although I had considered many of these aspects of our culture and their implications biblically before, I hadn't ever considered them as a whole. To read of them together and see how our personal and national sins have led us down this path is sickening. Honestly, I'm not sure how God has refrained from wiping us off the face of the earth! He is truly a merciful and patient God.
Mr. Capriola gives opportunities or suggestions for repentance and change throughout the book. I hope that enough people wake up to the truth of their personal sins and begin the guide our country along the path that God set it on.
This book is truly a wake-up call for Christians. If you haven't realized that there is a problem in our country I hope that this books opens your eyes to the truth of God's word and helps you realize that his mercy and patience does have an end. How far are we going to push those limits before he punishes us? (although I believe the punishments have begun)
This book is available from for
A Nation Under Judgement: One Nation Apart from God by Richard Capriola explores the history of the United States from a Christian perspective, effectively exposing our Christian roots and heritage. Building on that he takes a look at the rise and fall of other countries throughout history. Finally Mr. Capriola explores several aspects of current culture in our country and makes a terrifying case for why God might choose to remove His hand of protection from our country.
I consider myself a learned person and have for years discussed the downfall of the United States with anyone who would listen. Even considering my rather "educated" background, I was horrified as I read through the chapters of this book. Although I had considered many of these aspects of our culture and their implications biblically before, I hadn't ever considered them as a whole. To read of them together and see how our personal and national sins have led us down this path is sickening. Honestly, I'm not sure how God has refrained from wiping us off the face of the earth! He is truly a merciful and patient God.
Mr. Capriola gives opportunities or suggestions for repentance and change throughout the book. I hope that enough people wake up to the truth of their personal sins and begin the guide our country along the path that God set it on.
This book is truly a wake-up call for Christians. If you haven't realized that there is a problem in our country I hope that this books opens your eyes to the truth of God's word and helps you realize that his mercy and patience does have an end. How far are we going to push those limits before he punishes us? (although I believe the punishments have begun)
This book is available from for
Monday, December 09, 2013
Review: Tale of Two Kingdoms
Are you looking for an indepth Bible study for yourself or young adult student? I've got it. I do a lot of Bible studies and most of them are great....but they are usually geared toward a theme or certain topic. Tale Two Kindgdoms by Heather Kendall is very in depth. I've been working on it for weeks and still haven't finished it. Using Tale of Two Kingdoms with another of Ms. Kendall's books, God's Unfolding Story gives a very detailed examination of Biblical history while weaving in the coming Saviour all along the study. I would imagine that this study could be used as part of school at least a semester, quite possibly a whole year. I would recommend using them together, making the cost $45....they can also be purchased separately if you would prefer. (The 1st is more of a read-through book, the 2nd is a question/answer bible study).
Would you like to read what others are saying about these books? Check us out at Mosaic Reviews and see what others are saying about this great resource. www.mosaicreviews.com
Would you like to read what others are saying about these books? Check us out at Mosaic Reviews and see what others are saying about this great resource. www.mosaicreviews.com
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
REVIEW: Pieces of Me by Diana Lynn
***I received this book for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the CWA Review Crew.***
"I wrote this book for you." Diana Lynn
By the time you get to those words in this book, you have walked with Diana through some fairly difficult, I would even go as far as to say traumatizing, events in her life. The way Diana writes, you can feel what she felt; the pain, the joy, the hate, the love.
In the end, though, she did write this book to me, the reader. A compilation of written snapshots of her life, Diana walks through her trials again to share hope with her readers.
Diana's life has encompassed the span of deep depressions....a teenage pregnancy, abusive 1st husband, single motherhood, the loss a relationship with her father, death of her mother, an emotional affair, verbal abuse, loss of a friend......but in this book - the important parts of this book - are the lessons learned, the value of love, the hope everlasting and her ongoing journey with her Lord.
I love Diana's writing style. You can easily read, or reread this book in a short sitting or flip right to the section that fits your situation. The lessons that were hard learned by Diana are offered up with the wisdom that only comes from someone who has survived, thrived, through her difficulties.
Although I don't share many of Diana's life experiences, I feel that I do share some of her pain and I see how she was able to reconcile those parts of her life and that gives me hope also.
Towards the end, Diana focuses on goals and dreams and we see her main objective in writing this book. Diana has written so that we can see how she overcame insurmountable odds and thrived. In the last section she encourages her readers to do the same.
This book is available from Amazon for $9.99. You can learn more about Diana's ministry at Recovering Dysfunctionals and at her blog.
***I do not condone the use of psychics. I also believe the Bible's warnings against a homosexual lifestyle. That doesn't mean that we can't minister and love those who have been to psychics or take part in that lifestyle. Guard against sin, show God's love to the sinner :)
"I wrote this book for you." Diana Lynn
By the time you get to those words in this book, you have walked with Diana through some fairly difficult, I would even go as far as to say traumatizing, events in her life. The way Diana writes, you can feel what she felt; the pain, the joy, the hate, the love.
In the end, though, she did write this book to me, the reader. A compilation of written snapshots of her life, Diana walks through her trials again to share hope with her readers.
Diana's life has encompassed the span of deep depressions....a teenage pregnancy, abusive 1st husband, single motherhood, the loss a relationship with her father, death of her mother, an emotional affair, verbal abuse, loss of a friend......but in this book - the important parts of this book - are the lessons learned, the value of love, the hope everlasting and her ongoing journey with her Lord.
I love Diana's writing style. You can easily read, or reread this book in a short sitting or flip right to the section that fits your situation. The lessons that were hard learned by Diana are offered up with the wisdom that only comes from someone who has survived, thrived, through her difficulties.
Although I don't share many of Diana's life experiences, I feel that I do share some of her pain and I see how she was able to reconcile those parts of her life and that gives me hope also.
Towards the end, Diana focuses on goals and dreams and we see her main objective in writing this book. Diana has written so that we can see how she overcame insurmountable odds and thrived. In the last section she encourages her readers to do the same.
This book is available from Amazon for $9.99. You can learn more about Diana's ministry at Recovering Dysfunctionals and at her blog.
***I do not condone the use of psychics. I also believe the Bible's warnings against a homosexual lifestyle. That doesn't mean that we can't minister and love those who have been to psychics or take part in that lifestyle. Guard against sin, show God's love to the sinner :)
Monday, October 28, 2013
Come Back to Jesus - And Don't Bring Your Blackberry by Tanya Logan
***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the CWA review crew.***
I got a smartphone last year after YEARS of longing for one. Why did I want one so bad? Well, I think some of it is just greed.....I like the newest things and fancy things....and who doesn't want to be able to call up the latest weather or news story? I think another part of me wanted one because I could feel like I belonged. I don't always do so well in social situations and am frequently uncomfortable. On facebook (from phone or computer) I could feel like I belonged without ever really interacting with REAL people. With a smartphone, that ability is so quick and easy. I had gotten to where I didn't want to miss anything and I would get frustrated if others weren't posting status updates or commenting/liking mine. Pathetic, huh?
A friend has been bemoaning the evils of modern communication technology for years. I don't know how many times I've shaken my head as he rattled on again and again about how we were losing touch with reality and real people, how relationships didn't matter anymore (but they do to God!) and how we were wasting time (I'm visiting with friends, checking on loved ones, how dare he???) on our little electronic devices. Just wait, I'm coming around to his way of thinking.
I've really been convicted lately of how little time I've been spending with God. The littles and I started going to a new church in September with a wonderful Sunday School program and I got an adult lesson book and found daily Bible readings in the back. So I began daily doing those readings, then added in an additional chapter of Scripture (in depth) and if I had time, a Bible study. About an hour, with interruptions, each morning.
Shortly after that, I was given the opportunity to review Come Back to Jesus - And Don't Bring Your Blackberry by Tanya Logan. I was drawn to this choice. I know God was leading me because I needed it badly.
There is a lesson a day for 6 weeks with a leaders guide included in case this is wanted for a small group study. I definitely think that some accountability would be useful, as I am doing this alone, but I've asked God to be my accountability partner this time :) Each lesson is short and to the point. Although I quickly figured out where she was heading with the study, she did it nicely and nonjudgementally.
In the end it comes down to a good-better-best thing. Is what I am doing (social media, reading, hobbies) the BEST use of my time? Let's face it, I'm only getting one today. Once it is gone, it is gone.
I quickly caught myself doing the following:
-open facebook on my phone for "just a minute" and come up for air 45 minutes later
-find myself angry about things that were posted (and that had no bearing on me, my family, or anything really - so why was I mad?)
-found myself checking facebook at the kids sporting events
-found myself checking facebook at the supper table (even though we have a "no phones" rule at the table - my oldest son took it away from me - good for him!)
My facebook problem wasn't the only thing getting in the way of my relationship with God. I read an enormous amount of fiction books. They aren't bad, but I do need to curb my reading time to make time for other more important things. My hobbies, although much lower on my distraction list, also need to be kept in the proper perspective.
How am I working to change my perspective? I've allotted 1 hour a day (30 minutes morning and evening) to facebook checking. I've also allotted 30 minutes a day to blogging (going to be using that save feature) and 30 minutes to email. I've already scheduled time for "me" activities into my day - reading, hobbies, etc so I am going to be trying to make the BEST uses of those times. Good-better-best, remember?
This Bible study has opened my eyes to so many things that had become idols in my life. Do you need to step back and take a look at what is REALLY important in your life? I think it would do many of us a lot of good, I know it did me!
Come Back to Jesus - And Don't Bring Your Blackberry is available for $9.99 on the kindle or $15.99 as a paperback.
I got a smartphone last year after YEARS of longing for one. Why did I want one so bad? Well, I think some of it is just greed.....I like the newest things and fancy things....and who doesn't want to be able to call up the latest weather or news story? I think another part of me wanted one because I could feel like I belonged. I don't always do so well in social situations and am frequently uncomfortable. On facebook (from phone or computer) I could feel like I belonged without ever really interacting with REAL people. With a smartphone, that ability is so quick and easy. I had gotten to where I didn't want to miss anything and I would get frustrated if others weren't posting status updates or commenting/liking mine. Pathetic, huh?
A friend has been bemoaning the evils of modern communication technology for years. I don't know how many times I've shaken my head as he rattled on again and again about how we were losing touch with reality and real people, how relationships didn't matter anymore (but they do to God!) and how we were wasting time (I'm visiting with friends, checking on loved ones, how dare he???) on our little electronic devices. Just wait, I'm coming around to his way of thinking.
I've really been convicted lately of how little time I've been spending with God. The littles and I started going to a new church in September with a wonderful Sunday School program and I got an adult lesson book and found daily Bible readings in the back. So I began daily doing those readings, then added in an additional chapter of Scripture (in depth) and if I had time, a Bible study. About an hour, with interruptions, each morning.
Shortly after that, I was given the opportunity to review Come Back to Jesus - And Don't Bring Your Blackberry by Tanya Logan. I was drawn to this choice. I know God was leading me because I needed it badly.
In the end it comes down to a good-better-best thing. Is what I am doing (social media, reading, hobbies) the BEST use of my time? Let's face it, I'm only getting one today. Once it is gone, it is gone.
I quickly caught myself doing the following:
-open facebook on my phone for "just a minute" and come up for air 45 minutes later
-find myself angry about things that were posted (and that had no bearing on me, my family, or anything really - so why was I mad?)
-found myself checking facebook at the kids sporting events
-found myself checking facebook at the supper table (even though we have a "no phones" rule at the table - my oldest son took it away from me - good for him!)
My facebook problem wasn't the only thing getting in the way of my relationship with God. I read an enormous amount of fiction books. They aren't bad, but I do need to curb my reading time to make time for other more important things. My hobbies, although much lower on my distraction list, also need to be kept in the proper perspective.
How am I working to change my perspective? I've allotted 1 hour a day (30 minutes morning and evening) to facebook checking. I've also allotted 30 minutes a day to blogging (going to be using that save feature) and 30 minutes to email. I've already scheduled time for "me" activities into my day - reading, hobbies, etc so I am going to be trying to make the BEST uses of those times. Good-better-best, remember?
This Bible study has opened my eyes to so many things that had become idols in my life. Do you need to step back and take a look at what is REALLY important in your life? I think it would do many of us a lot of good, I know it did me!
Come Back to Jesus - And Don't Bring Your Blackberry is available for $9.99 on the kindle or $15.99 as a paperback.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Review: A Light for my Path
***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Mosaic Reviews Team***
I received the most delightful children's book to review a few weeks ago. A Light for My Path: An ABC Book Based on Psalm 119 is written by Davis Carman, illustrated by Alice Ratterree and published by Apologia (not just science anymore, remember?).
This book is adorable. The pencil drawings are a joy to look at.
The above page for the letter T says: God's Word, Law, Statutes, Decrees, Commands, and Precepts are True.
After you finish the alphabet, the text of Psalm 119 is included.
This would be appropriate as a picture book for younger children or a memory aid for older ones.
A Light for my Path is available from Apologia for $14.
I received the most delightful children's book to review a few weeks ago. A Light for My Path: An ABC Book Based on Psalm 119 is written by Davis Carman, illustrated by Alice Ratterree and published by Apologia (not just science anymore, remember?).
This book is adorable. The pencil drawings are a joy to look at.
The above page for the letter T says: God's Word, Law, Statutes, Decrees, Commands, and Precepts are True.
After you finish the alphabet, the text of Psalm 119 is included.
This would be appropriate as a picture book for younger children or a memory aid for older ones.
A Light for my Path is available from Apologia for $14.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Faith: Joseph's Story A Novel and Christian Bible Study by Sandra Lea Hardage
***I received this book for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the CWA Review Crew***
I think that God's been trying to talk to me.
I received Faith: Joseph's Story by Sandra Lea Hardage a few weeks ago. The first part of the book is a novel of Joseph's life. The author takes some liberties in minor details and weaves a very interesting story about the life of Joseph, before his journey to Egypt and after. It is thoroughly enjoyable! The book doesn't stop there.
The 2nd half of the book is a Bible study on faith. Using the lives of those in Joseph's family (starting with Abraham) and then Joseph's life this is a very in-depth study of faith. I am amazed that I am learning so many things from such a small (often read!) section of scripture. The 3rd part of the book is the leader's notes making this a wonderful study for small groups.....I will admit that I have had to really examine my life with this study (especially today's readings on jealousy and bitterness...ouch).
Since beginning this book and study, I have encountered the topic of faith in my regular private readings, Sunday school lessons and Sunday sermons. I guess God knew I needed to focus on this!
If you want to start digging into Faith: Joseph's Story, you can do so for $14.99 (softcover) or $3.99 (ebook). If you get the ebook, print that baby out. Trust me, you are going to be writing and highlighting and circling.....I am anyway. Good, good stuff!
I think that God's been trying to talk to me.
I received Faith: Joseph's Story by Sandra Lea Hardage a few weeks ago. The first part of the book is a novel of Joseph's life. The author takes some liberties in minor details and weaves a very interesting story about the life of Joseph, before his journey to Egypt and after. It is thoroughly enjoyable! The book doesn't stop there.
The 2nd half of the book is a Bible study on faith. Using the lives of those in Joseph's family (starting with Abraham) and then Joseph's life this is a very in-depth study of faith. I am amazed that I am learning so many things from such a small (often read!) section of scripture. The 3rd part of the book is the leader's notes making this a wonderful study for small groups.....I will admit that I have had to really examine my life with this study (especially today's readings on jealousy and bitterness...ouch).
Since beginning this book and study, I have encountered the topic of faith in my regular private readings, Sunday school lessons and Sunday sermons. I guess God knew I needed to focus on this!
If you want to start digging into Faith: Joseph's Story, you can do so for $14.99 (softcover) or $3.99 (ebook). If you get the ebook, print that baby out. Trust me, you are going to be writing and highlighting and circling.....I am anyway. Good, good stuff!
Monday, June 24, 2013
The Brinkman Adventures - REVIEW
***I received these products for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.***
I LOVE audio products. It started with Jonathan Park and then Odyssey....books on tape.....I am thrilled to be able to use otherwise "wasted" drive time to educate and encourage my family.
I jumped at the chance to review the Brinkman Adventures and boy was I not disappointed. These stories are RIVETING! You just almost can't stop listening - like sit in the driveway for several minutes waiting for an episode to end....yep, that's us! All of my children, myself and my husband too love to listen to these stories that combine a fun-loving family and true missionary stories. We learn about family dynamics, character training and Biblical truths while going from point A to point B. GREAT stuff!
These are high quality recordings :) I know that shouldn't matter if the story is good, but it really does.
Would you like to listen yourself? You can do that here. They operate on a donation basis so you can download the episodes on the site or order physical CD's. If you can't afford but want to listen, you just need to ask. How cool is that???? Very cool!
YOU can win a set of the first 6 CDs July 1-6 from Lorrie Flem at Eternal Encouragement. Don't forget to enter and maybe your family can enjoy these stories as much as mine is!
I LOVE audio products. It started with Jonathan Park and then Odyssey....books on tape.....I am thrilled to be able to use otherwise "wasted" drive time to educate and encourage my family.
I jumped at the chance to review the Brinkman Adventures and boy was I not disappointed. These stories are RIVETING! You just almost can't stop listening - like sit in the driveway for several minutes waiting for an episode to end....yep, that's us! All of my children, myself and my husband too love to listen to these stories that combine a fun-loving family and true missionary stories. We learn about family dynamics, character training and Biblical truths while going from point A to point B. GREAT stuff!
These are high quality recordings :) I know that shouldn't matter if the story is good, but it really does.
Would you like to listen yourself? You can do that here. They operate on a donation basis so you can download the episodes on the site or order physical CD's. If you can't afford but want to listen, you just need to ask. How cool is that???? Very cool!
YOU can win a set of the first 6 CDs July 1-6 from Lorrie Flem at Eternal Encouragement. Don't forget to enter and maybe your family can enjoy these stories as much as mine is!
Reading Kingdom - REVIEW
***I received this program for free in exchange for an fair review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.***
Today's review item is Reading Kingdom. I've discussed before my dislike for web-based reading programs so I won't go into that again. With that said, they must be very special to get this mommy's approval.
Designed for children ages 4-10, this program claims that it will help your children read at a 3rd grade level.
We didn't use it that long. lol
I will say that at this short season of my life (moving), this was a blessed product to review. Bear could work on reading and I could feel that I was helping to contribute to his education while I packed.
To begin, the student takes a series of assessment tests. The program is very easy to use. You can choose a "virtual" keyboard from the screen or use the keyboard on your computer. Bear had no problem using it (Bear is 5.5). After the assessment, the program determines at what sequence to start the student.
While colorful, the graphics aren't perfect. The voice kinda got on my nerves after a while, but Bear didn't seem to mind it, and I could be hyper-sensitive (since I'm on a tight rope anyway). Progress reports are sent to my email so I can see how he is doing (I loved this part since I don't sit with him while he plays) and I can always access the program if I feel I need to.....I didn't.
Bear asks to play the game so that is a big plus. I would encourage you to go to www.readingkingdom.com and enroll for a free 30 day trial because I am unusually hard on games like this.
Also, from June 24-28 you can go to Lorrie Flem's blog - Randy's Rib to register to win a free 6-month subscription. That would give YOU lots of time to try it out.
Today's review item is Reading Kingdom. I've discussed before my dislike for web-based reading programs so I won't go into that again. With that said, they must be very special to get this mommy's approval.
Designed for children ages 4-10, this program claims that it will help your children read at a 3rd grade level.
We didn't use it that long. lol
I will say that at this short season of my life (moving), this was a blessed product to review. Bear could work on reading and I could feel that I was helping to contribute to his education while I packed.
To begin, the student takes a series of assessment tests. The program is very easy to use. You can choose a "virtual" keyboard from the screen or use the keyboard on your computer. Bear had no problem using it (Bear is 5.5). After the assessment, the program determines at what sequence to start the student.
While colorful, the graphics aren't perfect. The voice kinda got on my nerves after a while, but Bear didn't seem to mind it, and I could be hyper-sensitive (since I'm on a tight rope anyway). Progress reports are sent to my email so I can see how he is doing (I loved this part since I don't sit with him while he plays) and I can always access the program if I feel I need to.....I didn't.
Bear asks to play the game so that is a big plus. I would encourage you to go to www.readingkingdom.com and enroll for a free 30 day trial because I am unusually hard on games like this.
Also, from June 24-28 you can go to Lorrie Flem's blog - Randy's Rib to register to win a free 6-month subscription. That would give YOU lots of time to try it out.
Friday, June 21, 2013
Medieval History Memory Game - REVIEW
***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Mosaic Review program.***
I love history! Unfortunately, for the most part, my children do not. That's a bummer. Traditionally, history has been learned in one of 2 ways....1. boring facts memorized and then forgotten 2.reading about the events and characters in living books (my fav!)
Recently there has been an influx in another way to learn about history.....GAMES! Why not?
The Classical Historian has created and published history curriculum and games for grades prek-12.
We were blessed to receive the Medieval History Memory Game. I have to admit that as much as I love history, I'm not very good at anything earlier than 1700 or so. The cards are very high quality and just the right size for little hands. You can play the game as a traditional memory game or as a category matching game. So the game grows with you children! The illustrations are top notch and a pleasure to look at.
Bear, Abby and I have played several times and I am surprised at the things that we have all learned and the discussions that have been sparked because of our "play". Neat stuff!
You can get this from The Classical Historian for $14.95. While you are there, not forget to check out their other great looking resources. I doubt that you will be disappointed :)
I love history! Unfortunately, for the most part, my children do not. That's a bummer. Traditionally, history has been learned in one of 2 ways....1. boring facts memorized and then forgotten 2.reading about the events and characters in living books (my fav!)
Recently there has been an influx in another way to learn about history.....GAMES! Why not?
We were blessed to receive the Medieval History Memory Game. I have to admit that as much as I love history, I'm not very good at anything earlier than 1700 or so. The cards are very high quality and just the right size for little hands. You can play the game as a traditional memory game or as a category matching game. So the game grows with you children! The illustrations are top notch and a pleasure to look at.
Bear, Abby and I have played several times and I am surprised at the things that we have all learned and the discussions that have been sparked because of our "play". Neat stuff!
You can get this from The Classical Historian for $14.95. While you are there, not forget to check out their other great looking resources. I doubt that you will be disappointed :)
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
For Women Only - For Men Only Review and GIVEAWAY
***I received these products for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.***
For Women Only: What You Need to Know About the Inner Lives of Men by Shaunti Feldhan is a comprehensive book about MEN. Not how to be a better wife, persay, but how men work and what you can do with that information to benefit your marriage. Shaunti surveyed THOUSANDS of men (Christian, non-Christian, married, unmarried) and then compiled statistical data about how they feel about many situations. Not just how they feel, but how they react and WHY. I WISH I had this little gem 17 years ago.
Now, I know a lot of you are saying "why should I change?". Let me clue you into something....you can only change you. You can't change anyone else. This book gets results if you implement Shaunti's suggestions, even with no changes from your boyfriend/husband at all.
HOWEVER, Shaunti and her husband Jeff Feldhahn went a step further and wrote For Men Only: A Straighforward Guide to the Inner Lives of Women. Using the same procedures for the this book; talking to married women, un-married women, Christian and non-Christian women the Feldhahn's have discovered why women tick the way we do and what men can do about it.
All these years my husband has tried to convince me that I was "different" and what I felt was wrong or abnormal......however, I fell right into the common group of women! Ha! I knew I couldn't be so different. Jeff makes women completely understandable! See we aren't so difficult :)
You can get the kindle versions of these books for $9.99 on Amazon right now.
Wanna watch a video of Shaunti? Here ya go!
Lorrie Flem is giving away a copy of the DVD set of the For Only series....check out her blog at Randy's Rib to enter from June 17-21st.
Need more encouragement? Sign up for Lorrie's free newsletter HERE.
NOW: I have a set of these books to giveaway. I don't have any idea what to do with Rafflecopter or any of those things so please comment to my blog if you want to enter and I will randomly choose a winner at 5 p.m. Sunday June 23. Easy??? LOL
Friday, June 14, 2013
How Do We Know God is Really There? REVIEW
***I received this book for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Mosaics Homeschool Review team.***
We are in the midst of a move. We are remodeling our new house before we move. We are certifiably crazy. CRAZY crazy. That's us.
Anyway, I'm spending 90% of my time either at the "new" farmhouse cleaning/painting or at the "old" townhouse packing. The other 10% of my time I'm squeezing in home management duties (laundry and groceries anyone?), blogging and AVON work. I am crazy. Or will be by the time this is over.
Finding time to spend with the littles is hard but I'm trying to make sure they know that I'm still here, although a little less sane, so I try to take a book to the farmhouse when we go and after our picnic lunch on the porch I read a bit. When I received How Do We Know God is Really There? I threw it into the bag.
This is a very cute, illustrated children's book. It weaves common "kid" questions with well-thought-out answers, a little bit of science and a lot of love. We LOVE it. I couldn't have possibly explain how the universe began in any better way.
I am encouraged at the end by Psalm 19:1 (The heavens declare the glory of God and the skies proclaim the work of His hands.) and how the author encourages us to learn more about the universe so that we can have more reasons to believe in our wonderful Creator. How cool is that????
Written by Melissa Cain Travis, illustrated by Christopher Voss and published by Apologia (the science people), this book is available from Apologia for $16....a great educational value for such a nice hardbound book. You won't regret it :)
We are in the midst of a move. We are remodeling our new house before we move. We are certifiably crazy. CRAZY crazy. That's us.
Anyway, I'm spending 90% of my time either at the "new" farmhouse cleaning/painting or at the "old" townhouse packing. The other 10% of my time I'm squeezing in home management duties (laundry and groceries anyone?), blogging and AVON work. I am crazy. Or will be by the time this is over.
Finding time to spend with the littles is hard but I'm trying to make sure they know that I'm still here, although a little less sane, so I try to take a book to the farmhouse when we go and after our picnic lunch on the porch I read a bit. When I received How Do We Know God is Really There? I threw it into the bag.
This is a very cute, illustrated children's book. It weaves common "kid" questions with well-thought-out answers, a little bit of science and a lot of love. We LOVE it. I couldn't have possibly explain how the universe began in any better way.
I am encouraged at the end by Psalm 19:1 (The heavens declare the glory of God and the skies proclaim the work of His hands.) and how the author encourages us to learn more about the universe so that we can have more reasons to believe in our wonderful Creator. How cool is that????
Written by Melissa Cain Travis, illustrated by Christopher Voss and published by Apologia (the science people), this book is available from Apologia for $16....a great educational value for such a nice hardbound book. You won't regret it :)
Friday, May 10, 2013
Waterproof Bible
***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Mosaics Review team.
After Bike Camp last fall Greg brought home an interesting Bible, a Waterproof Bible (his was NIV and camo) so I was a little familiar with this product. When told I would be reviewing it, I was figuring I would get camo, but look! I got pink :) They have tons of other styles/versions/colors available (including a full Bible). This one is priced at $24.95.
So, what's so cool about this Bible you ask? Well, aside from being waterproof, it is practically indestructible. The littles have wallowed it all around church and after the 1st couple of times of reminding them that is was a Bible so be careful, I let them go (for review purposes only lol) and they haven't managed to put so much as a dent in it.
I dumped tea on it with absolutely no ill effects. It got lipstick on it (I keep it in my purse - did I mention it is purse sized???) and it wiped right off. No page curling, no staining. No problemo.
Did I mention it is the perfect size to fit into your purse or backpack? Its a little heavier then a pocket Bible but the pages are made out of some kind of plastic stuff so you can expect that. It is much lighter than my full sized Bible.
Greg's camo version lived in the van for a few weeks and still looks like the day he brought it home (nothing comes out of that van after an extended period of time without some damage - except this Bible).
I cannot say enough good things about this product. I am considering getting these for Bear and Abby's first Bibles because they are so indestructible (I'm not giving mine up btw).
Made by Bardin and Marsee Publishing, these things are made to be used by anyone that wants to take the word on the go, wherever they go.
Monday, May 06, 2013
Ooka Island - Review and Discount Code
***I've received the following product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Mosaics Review program***
I've taught a couple of children how to read :) I have a method, a very practical, no fuss approach and it works well. Bear is at that age, so here we go again!
I was intrigued when I received Ooka Island to review. Ooka Island is a learn-to-read game for ages 3-7.
Honestly, I'm not the biggest fan of educational games. I find that they are primarily games with a little tiny bit of educational thrown in for good measure. That's fine, as long as you go into the program knowing that. Rarely I will encounter a game that is educational and am always very pleased when I do.
Ooka Island surprised me. I think that maybe I didn't want to like it. I doubted the ability of a game to teach my children to read - believe me, I had to gain grey hair in order for that to happen. HOWEVER, Ooka Island is different.
#1 Bear (age 5.5) LOVES it. Begs to play it. Forever. I had to turn it off.
#2 The activities are repeated without being annoying. Repetition with reading is a good thing.
#3 The games are "self-learning". I don't have to help at all. Every once in a while I do a walk-through but otherwise he is on his own. THAT is a wonderful thing.
#4 He has gained much in the way of phonetic sounds just over the last few weeks. I haven't really been working on phonics otherwise but he is learning so it has to be the game.
On the Ooka Island website there are activity pages that can be used with the program. We haven't used them yet, but I think that they will be a good supplement.
If your child needs some phonics supplement, or you are looking for an educational "game" I strongly recommend that you give Ooka Island a try. To sweeten the deal, they are offering my readers a 30% off discount good until June 1, 2013.
I've taught a couple of children how to read :) I have a method, a very practical, no fuss approach and it works well. Bear is at that age, so here we go again!
I was intrigued when I received Ooka Island to review. Ooka Island is a learn-to-read game for ages 3-7.
Honestly, I'm not the biggest fan of educational games. I find that they are primarily games with a little tiny bit of educational thrown in for good measure. That's fine, as long as you go into the program knowing that. Rarely I will encounter a game that is educational and am always very pleased when I do.
Ooka Island surprised me. I think that maybe I didn't want to like it. I doubted the ability of a game to teach my children to read - believe me, I had to gain grey hair in order for that to happen. HOWEVER, Ooka Island is different.
#1 Bear (age 5.5) LOVES it. Begs to play it. Forever. I had to turn it off.
#2 The activities are repeated without being annoying. Repetition with reading is a good thing.
#3 The games are "self-learning". I don't have to help at all. Every once in a while I do a walk-through but otherwise he is on his own. THAT is a wonderful thing.
#4 He has gained much in the way of phonetic sounds just over the last few weeks. I haven't really been working on phonics otherwise but he is learning so it has to be the game.
On the Ooka Island website there are activity pages that can be used with the program. We haven't used them yet, but I think that they will be a good supplement.
If your child needs some phonics supplement, or you are looking for an educational "game" I strongly recommend that you give Ooka Island a try. To sweeten the deal, they are offering my readers a 30% off discount good until June 1, 2013.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Healing Hearts with Helping Hands
Sometimes I just don't know what to do or say. I'm socially awkward. Especially around death or around people that are grieving. It is something that I'm working on, as I want to be a blessing to those around me.
As usual, Lorrie Flem, helps me out.
As usual, Lorrie doesn't just give us vague notions of how to be a blessing. This book is FULL of ideas to help us help others during their time of deepest need. She gives us the words to write, the words to say, the actions to take.
Since food can be such a blessing at this time, some of Lorrie's focus (but not ALL) is on how to take food, what food to take, AND she includes recipes for several easy to serve items that should be universal hits.
The ideas in this book are very useful in a variety of other situations as well; new baby, sick family member, etc. I loved the ideas for care packages that can be made for friends that are going to the hospital to help family members or for treatments themselves.
Lorrie ends this book with scripture to reinforce our desires to bless others. I just can't say enough good things about this resource. I feel more confident in my ability to help others now :)
This book is available now at Eternal Encouragement for $3.50, or as a Kindle download from Amazon for $3.99. However, May 1-3 it will be available from Amazon for $0.99! So be patient and get it then :) And don't forget that you don't have to actually have a kindle to read kindle books (I have a kindle yet still read mostly from my Droid phone). If you need more information about that, you can read HERE.
Need more encouragement or know someone else who does? You can get Lorrie's Eternal Encouragement magazine for free!!!!!
***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.***
As usual, Lorrie Flem, helps me out.
As usual, Lorrie doesn't just give us vague notions of how to be a blessing. This book is FULL of ideas to help us help others during their time of deepest need. She gives us the words to write, the words to say, the actions to take.
Since food can be such a blessing at this time, some of Lorrie's focus (but not ALL) is on how to take food, what food to take, AND she includes recipes for several easy to serve items that should be universal hits.
The ideas in this book are very useful in a variety of other situations as well; new baby, sick family member, etc. I loved the ideas for care packages that can be made for friends that are going to the hospital to help family members or for treatments themselves.
Lorrie ends this book with scripture to reinforce our desires to bless others. I just can't say enough good things about this resource. I feel more confident in my ability to help others now :)
This book is available now at Eternal Encouragement for $3.50, or as a Kindle download from Amazon for $3.99. However, May 1-3 it will be available from Amazon for $0.99! So be patient and get it then :) And don't forget that you don't have to actually have a kindle to read kindle books (I have a kindle yet still read mostly from my Droid phone). If you need more information about that, you can read HERE.
Need more encouragement or know someone else who does? You can get Lorrie's Eternal Encouragement magazine for free!!!!!
***I received this product for free in exchange for a fair review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.***
Tuesday, April 09, 2013
Ultimate Planners
What do you think about when you hear Apologia?
Science, right?
Well, not so much anymore. Apologia, as a company, has started branching out into other areas. There's a lot of good stuff over there if you haven't checked them out lately!
Anyway, as part of the Mosaic's Review Team I received some planners, The Ultimate Planners, from Apologia to review.
Created by Debra Bell, author of The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling, these planners are designed with maximum flexibility and usability for families of all sizes and homeschooling styles.
This planner is designed to be used at the very beginning of your planning for the homeschool year. Not only that, but it gives instructions on how to plan your homeschool year. Not rigid instructions, but goal setting guidance and various "how to use" instructions. In all my years of planning homeschool, I've never been instructed on how to do it, and let me tell you, the advice is wonderful - even for a seasoned homeschooler like myself. I felt like we were covering definate goals and then breaking them down into manageable pieces.
Since I'm working with 2 younger children (Bear is technically K4 and Abby is PreK2) I listed the various "working areas" at the top (numbers, letters, Bible, character, phonics, hands-on) and then their names on the side (they each got 2 boxes) and then there is a box that I have labeled Together for the activities that we do together.
There are a myriad of ways you can use this planner - subjects at the top, subjects at the side, etc. All the options are laid out at the beginning of the planner.
After the grid page each week there is a 2-page spread that allows you to write in prayer requests, weekly goals, hospitality goals and a space to record those special little things you want to remember (or notes, I'm using it for lots of notes).
The main goal of this planner is that Mom will have the guidelines in her planner and the weekly work will be transfered to the student planner.
My littles don't read so we aren't using it, but it is a very standard planner with lots of space to write daily work, chores, etc.
There is also a teen planner if your children are that age and I gather that it works well if your children are in public school also (our school supplies planners).
The MOM planner is $28, the STUDENT planner is $19 and the TEEN planner is $19. These are nice, spiral bound planners. My planner has a pocket in the front and has already been very abused - still going strong!
There will be a facebook party if you are looking for more information on Friday April 12th.
***As always, this product was given to me for free in exchange for an honest review as part of the Mosaics Review team.*** You can read other reviews of this product HERE
Science, right?
Well, not so much anymore. Apologia, as a company, has started branching out into other areas. There's a lot of good stuff over there if you haven't checked them out lately!
Anyway, as part of the Mosaic's Review Team I received some planners, The Ultimate Planners, from Apologia to review.
Created by Debra Bell, author of The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling, these planners are designed with maximum flexibility and usability for families of all sizes and homeschooling styles.
Since I'm working with 2 younger children (Bear is technically K4 and Abby is PreK2) I listed the various "working areas" at the top (numbers, letters, Bible, character, phonics, hands-on) and then their names on the side (they each got 2 boxes) and then there is a box that I have labeled Together for the activities that we do together.
There are a myriad of ways you can use this planner - subjects at the top, subjects at the side, etc. All the options are laid out at the beginning of the planner.
After the grid page each week there is a 2-page spread that allows you to write in prayer requests, weekly goals, hospitality goals and a space to record those special little things you want to remember (or notes, I'm using it for lots of notes).
There is also a teen planner if your children are that age and I gather that it works well if your children are in public school also (our school supplies planners).
The MOM planner is $28, the STUDENT planner is $19 and the TEEN planner is $19. These are nice, spiral bound planners. My planner has a pocket in the front and has already been very abused - still going strong!
There will be a facebook party if you are looking for more information on Friday April 12th.
***As always, this product was given to me for free in exchange for an honest review as part of the Mosaics Review team.*** You can read other reviews of this product HERE
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Creating Contentment Seminar
So I was very delighted to find out that Lorrie Flem was going to be hosting some seminars online. The topic for February was Creating Contentment. Unfortunately, I wasn't available for the actual seminar BUT with an online seminar, you don't actually have to be available. If you buy a ticket for the seminar (for $3 at www.eternalencouragement.com) then you can access the seminar at any time. All the slides, the PDFs and the recordings! This is completely set up to be convenient for ME (and YOU).
I struggle with contentment. This seminar really blessed me and encourages me to rethink my attitude and be grateful for the things that God has blessed me with.
Beginning March 15th, you can also purchase the next seminar, True Womanhood is Not for Wimpy Women. More encouragement!!!! I absolutely can't wait to dig into this information. And I didn't have to drive, book a hotel, find a sitter, buy a meal. No stress, no frustration, very budget friendly!
For this and other wonderful resources for Godly Womanhood be sure to check out Eternal Encouragement. Lorrie's mission is to mentor other women to be more like Jesus every day :)
***I received this product for free in exchange for an honest review as part of the Gabby Moms review program.***
Monday, February 11, 2013
Getting Out of Bed in the Morning
When I was asked if I wanted to do this review it was just weeks after the death of my dear friend Erin; I was still in the cloud of grief and was eager for anything to help me dig my way out. By the time I actually received this book life was a little different. My burden didn't seem quite as heavy and I wondered if I was the right person to be reviewing this.....however, this isn't just a book about grieving a lost loved one. This is a book about grieving a loss. It could be a relationship loss, job loss, financial loss, health-related loss or the loss of a loved one. Since I seem to qualify in almost all those categories, I decided to give it a go.
I sat down and read it straight through. IT IS NOT DESIGNED TO BE READ THAT WAY. I wanted to make sure that I got all the way through so that my review would be complete.
This book is meant to be a devotional. The chapters are short, can easily be read in less than 10 minutes every morning. 40 chapters, one for each day, lead the reader through the valley of grief. This book doesn't just speak to your emotions, it speaks to your spiritual life and physical life as well. Each chapter has the devotional, reflections to ponder, prayer and a when you walk section. The author, Alice J. Wisler, encourages her readers to get out and walk. Meet the world head on, take care of your physical self and enjoy the wonders of God's beauty.
Beginning tomorrow, I am starting this book the way it was intended to be read. Don't get me wrong, I gleaned much from it in one setting. I can't imagine how God will work through this book when I have time to reflect, ponder and soak up the truth of His word.
Alice also has Writing the Heartache workshops that are geared to help others discover the benefits of writing from losses. Alice lost her 4 year old son, Daniel, to cancer after 8 months of treatments, so she speaks from experience and wants to help you get through your loss and back on the path to living your life to the fullest.
Getting Out of Bed in the Morning is available for $11.05 on Amazon.
For more encouragement you can visit Alice's blogs: Broken Psalms and Alice J. Wisler's Patchwork Quilt Blog.
***As always I received this book for free in exchange for a fair review :)
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