Yes, I know it's Wednesday. Work with me here. : )
~ Giggles
~ Cool Breezes
~ "B" Movies with Hubby after the kids are in bed
~ Libraries that allow children to make noise and play
~ Late night talks with my Katherine
~ Creating a special memory with friends
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Monday, June 25, 2012
My Stubborn Heart - Book Review
Kate and her grandmother travel back to a small town in Pennsylvania to restore a family home. This three month vacation from her job as a social worker is just what she needed.
Her Grandmother already arranged for a local man to work on the physical repairs the home will need. As one can guess this is a single man, attractive, and Kate is drawn to him. The thing is Matt, the contractor, seems to be very introverted and not at all interested in anything else but his work. Many times Kate tries to talk to him and offer to help on the painting and such and we learn he just wishes she would go away. She can tell there is great pain in his eyes and feels the need to help him.
Most of the book follows her attempts to get him to interact more with others and to try and help him heal what is hurting him. Matt eventually starts to come out of his seclusion, it is around this time that he realizes he can not keep Kate out of his mind. At the same time Kate is starting to feel more for Matt but continues to tell herself they are nothing more than friends, that she will be going back to Dallas in a short time, and also that he couldn't possibly feel anything romantic for her as she does not feel in his league.
Eventually Matt's secrets come out and we learn why he was so withdrawn. They also both admit how they feel about one another but that doesn't mean they live happily ever after. It is clear that Kate has helped him and she believes that God meant for her to come into his life for no other reason than to help him and to bring him back to God.
I have read other reviews on this book and am not sure about how others will find it. It is a Christian Fiction book however, there is a weekly poker game that takes place with the Seniors (the grandmother and her friends), also there is drinking from Matt and another man that showed interest in Kate, Trey I believe. I also read about soft cussing. I didn't see any cussing unless some Christians think "sucks" is a curse word. I do see where a phrase Matt uses about"having balls" could be offensive. It could have easily been changed to "guts" and not interrupted the moment or character. Other than that I did not see anything that problematic that others seem to have thought.
I did quickly tire with the brand dropping the author did. I started to wonder if she was hoping to get free items from the stores she mentioned. It had nothing to do with the story. In fact, why did she need to comment on what Matt was wearing almost every time he walked into a room? I also could have done with less use of 'hottie' and 'hot' to describe Matt. Only one character did I see this being okay and expected from (one of the senior women). Everyone else was just too much. I almost felt like she needed a Thesaurus to help her find another adjective.
Overall I loved the book though. I read it in two days which with two young kids is no small task. It is a fresh take on an old story line of boy meets girl. It also brings up a great point to think about, that maybe we are not brought into a persons life to stay forever. Maybe we are there for a reason and once the "task" is complete we are meant to part ways. I would recommend this book to my friends and plan on sharing the copy I got.
* I received this book to read and review from Bethany House. I am expected to give my honest opinions, good or bad. All the above mentioned opinions are my own. *
Her Grandmother already arranged for a local man to work on the physical repairs the home will need. As one can guess this is a single man, attractive, and Kate is drawn to him. The thing is Matt, the contractor, seems to be very introverted and not at all interested in anything else but his work. Many times Kate tries to talk to him and offer to help on the painting and such and we learn he just wishes she would go away. She can tell there is great pain in his eyes and feels the need to help him.
Most of the book follows her attempts to get him to interact more with others and to try and help him heal what is hurting him. Matt eventually starts to come out of his seclusion, it is around this time that he realizes he can not keep Kate out of his mind. At the same time Kate is starting to feel more for Matt but continues to tell herself they are nothing more than friends, that she will be going back to Dallas in a short time, and also that he couldn't possibly feel anything romantic for her as she does not feel in his league.
Eventually Matt's secrets come out and we learn why he was so withdrawn. They also both admit how they feel about one another but that doesn't mean they live happily ever after. It is clear that Kate has helped him and she believes that God meant for her to come into his life for no other reason than to help him and to bring him back to God.
I have read other reviews on this book and am not sure about how others will find it. It is a Christian Fiction book however, there is a weekly poker game that takes place with the Seniors (the grandmother and her friends), also there is drinking from Matt and another man that showed interest in Kate, Trey I believe. I also read about soft cussing. I didn't see any cussing unless some Christians think "sucks" is a curse word. I do see where a phrase Matt uses about"having balls" could be offensive. It could have easily been changed to "guts" and not interrupted the moment or character. Other than that I did not see anything that problematic that others seem to have thought.
I did quickly tire with the brand dropping the author did. I started to wonder if she was hoping to get free items from the stores she mentioned. It had nothing to do with the story. In fact, why did she need to comment on what Matt was wearing almost every time he walked into a room? I also could have done with less use of 'hottie' and 'hot' to describe Matt. Only one character did I see this being okay and expected from (one of the senior women). Everyone else was just too much. I almost felt like she needed a Thesaurus to help her find another adjective.
Overall I loved the book though. I read it in two days which with two young kids is no small task. It is a fresh take on an old story line of boy meets girl. It also brings up a great point to think about, that maybe we are not brought into a persons life to stay forever. Maybe we are there for a reason and once the "task" is complete we are meant to part ways. I would recommend this book to my friends and plan on sharing the copy I got.
* I received this book to read and review from Bethany House. I am expected to give my honest opinions, good or bad. All the above mentioned opinions are my own. *
Friday, June 15, 2012
Old Bedford Village
My husband and I are not much on amusement parks so we took our daughters to Old Bedford Village last week. It was their first week of summer vacation and we are hoping to be able to do something special or fun every week. I love early American history and Old Bedford Village isn't too far from our home so it was perfect. I even went online to see if the girls were interested. Katherine (6) said no, she wanted to go to the beach. That wasn't going to happen since it was overcast and about 65 here and where we go is at least 10 degrees cooler. Ava (4) was all for it though. So with Katherine grumbling and DSs being played we were on our way.
I have always loved going and actually had last been there when I was 21. : ) Katherine still wasn't sold on it until we really started our tour, self guided of course. Once we found the woodworker and she had fun with the wood toys he had made, she loved it. Then there is the General Store where they got some cheap candy. Oh and the bakery that makes huge cookies. Unfortunately the ice cream parlor was closed but Katherine sees that as another reason to go back soon.
Ava had a great time from the start. In fact, we often had to tell her to slow down and wait for us. I'm glad she was so excited to go and see how things were made and done. She is my curious one - always asking how things were made. Our first stop on the tour was a house of a woman making yarn. Ava was fascinated as she took wool from her basket and spun it.
After we had seen everything there and stopped at the gift shop we decided to go to dinner at Hoss's. Another place the girls ended up loving. They both ordered hot dogs and got their names carved in them. Justin and I decided there must have been a rock, paper, scissors showdown in the back to see who had to fit Katherine on a hot dog. : ) Best part is after they ate those, there is a desert bar. Both girls decided on chocolate ice cream. Katherine topped hers with M&Ms, sprinkles, and Oreos. Ava topped hers with Sprinkles, M&M's, chocolate chips, and chocolate syrup.
I think it is safe to say they will both be thrilled the next time we suggest going there.
I have always loved going and actually had last been there when I was 21. : ) Katherine still wasn't sold on it until we really started our tour, self guided of course. Once we found the woodworker and she had fun with the wood toys he had made, she loved it. Then there is the General Store where they got some cheap candy. Oh and the bakery that makes huge cookies. Unfortunately the ice cream parlor was closed but Katherine sees that as another reason to go back soon.
Ava had a great time from the start. In fact, we often had to tell her to slow down and wait for us. I'm glad she was so excited to go and see how things were made and done. She is my curious one - always asking how things were made. Our first stop on the tour was a house of a woman making yarn. Ava was fascinated as she took wool from her basket and spun it.
After we had seen everything there and stopped at the gift shop we decided to go to dinner at Hoss's. Another place the girls ended up loving. They both ordered hot dogs and got their names carved in them. Justin and I decided there must have been a rock, paper, scissors showdown in the back to see who had to fit Katherine on a hot dog. : ) Best part is after they ate those, there is a desert bar. Both girls decided on chocolate ice cream. Katherine topped hers with M&Ms, sprinkles, and Oreos. Ava topped hers with Sprinkles, M&M's, chocolate chips, and chocolate syrup.
I think it is safe to say they will both be thrilled the next time we suggest going there.
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| The Spinning Wheels used to show us how to make yarn |
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| Cute displays at the General Store |
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| Learning to wash your clothes. As in Modern Times Mommy was the one that did it. |
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| Who knew wooden toys would make her so happy |
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| Huge cookies from the Bakery |
Confronting Jezebel ---- Book Review
I believe this is the 2nd or 3rd printing of this book. It has been reprinted to include more content. At the end of each chapter is some questions and a small prayer.
This book is about confronting the Jezebels in your life. The manipulators and controllers that come into our lives. It shows through example stories that have actually happened but not too many real Biblical references. In fact, within the second chapter the author basically says all Liberals are an example of Jezebels. That's where he lost my respect.
It's good however to help show how you have been a Jezebel yourself . Recognizing a trait in yourself is the first step in self improvement. However, I found this more a standard self help book than teaching principles of the Bible. Maybe it is from using so many real life stories and not those of the Bible.
I was given this book by Chosen to review. If I had not I may have picked it up but would not have finished it. Besides just the offensiveness it felt too text book. I enjoy Christian help books the way Joyce Meyer writes them. So sorry Mr. Sampson, I will not be reading any other of your works.
This book is about confronting the Jezebels in your life. The manipulators and controllers that come into our lives. It shows through example stories that have actually happened but not too many real Biblical references. In fact, within the second chapter the author basically says all Liberals are an example of Jezebels. That's where he lost my respect.
It's good however to help show how you have been a Jezebel yourself . Recognizing a trait in yourself is the first step in self improvement. However, I found this more a standard self help book than teaching principles of the Bible. Maybe it is from using so many real life stories and not those of the Bible.
I was given this book by Chosen to review. If I had not I may have picked it up but would not have finished it. Besides just the offensiveness it felt too text book. I enjoy Christian help books the way Joyce Meyer writes them. So sorry Mr. Sampson, I will not be reading any other of your works.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Book Review ---- The Fiddler by Beverly Lewis
I have to admit I have never read a Beverly Lewis book before. She writes Christian romantic fiction surrounding Amish characters. Growing up in Lancaster she has a great, true perspective of how the Amish culture works. I received this book to review from her publisher Bethany House.
This story focuses on a woman, Amelia (Amy), and an Amishman, Michael. Amelia is an accomplished violinist thanks to the prompting of her father. However, we find she is performing as Amy for Tim McGraw as the fiddler and fears her father finding out. On the way home from a performance she gets lost in a rainstorm. What's worse is she had left her cell phone at home hoping to get some peace after the end of a long relationship. Without any other option she sets out to find help. She comes upon a cabin and decides to stop there. Michael is of course the man there. He invites her in and after talking come to realize they enjoy each other. He invites her to his Amish community the next day. There she agrees to stay for the weekend.
As Amelia has a father pushing her towards being a "violinist" where she is happy to be a "fiddler", Michael has his own father issue. At 25 he is still not baptized and his dad wants him to join the faith or leave. He, like Amelia, is being pressured by the father while being happier with something else. He is in college and likes making blue prints and wants to pursue that life but the love of his family keeps him from being able to leave.
Of course the book will explore these feelings and ultimately come to a conclusion of their decisions. It also shows a blooming love between them. I really enjoy how the romance is written. It starts building on a connection they have that has nothing to do with sex or physicality. In doing so you can truly root for them and these pure feelings. The Christian part comes into play because Michael isn't so sure about becoming Amish but that doesn't mean he wants a life without God in it. Amelia wants to have a relationship with God.
The Fiddler was a great book and after reading it I will be checking out others. Luckily my mother and several friends are big fans of Ms. Lewis'. The Fiddler is the first book in The Hickory Hollow series. Book two, The Bridesmaid, will be released in September of this year. Before you decide you know how this story ends, this book is about another (secondary) character of this book. : ) So if you are tired of standard romance of today definitely check this book out.
*Again, I was given a copy of this book to review from Bethany House. They ask for honest opinions so everything I have written is how I feel and view this book. *
This story focuses on a woman, Amelia (Amy), and an Amishman, Michael. Amelia is an accomplished violinist thanks to the prompting of her father. However, we find she is performing as Amy for Tim McGraw as the fiddler and fears her father finding out. On the way home from a performance she gets lost in a rainstorm. What's worse is she had left her cell phone at home hoping to get some peace after the end of a long relationship. Without any other option she sets out to find help. She comes upon a cabin and decides to stop there. Michael is of course the man there. He invites her in and after talking come to realize they enjoy each other. He invites her to his Amish community the next day. There she agrees to stay for the weekend.
As Amelia has a father pushing her towards being a "violinist" where she is happy to be a "fiddler", Michael has his own father issue. At 25 he is still not baptized and his dad wants him to join the faith or leave. He, like Amelia, is being pressured by the father while being happier with something else. He is in college and likes making blue prints and wants to pursue that life but the love of his family keeps him from being able to leave.
Of course the book will explore these feelings and ultimately come to a conclusion of their decisions. It also shows a blooming love between them. I really enjoy how the romance is written. It starts building on a connection they have that has nothing to do with sex or physicality. In doing so you can truly root for them and these pure feelings. The Christian part comes into play because Michael isn't so sure about becoming Amish but that doesn't mean he wants a life without God in it. Amelia wants to have a relationship with God.
The Fiddler was a great book and after reading it I will be checking out others. Luckily my mother and several friends are big fans of Ms. Lewis'. The Fiddler is the first book in The Hickory Hollow series. Book two, The Bridesmaid, will be released in September of this year. Before you decide you know how this story ends, this book is about another (secondary) character of this book. : ) So if you are tired of standard romance of today definitely check this book out.
*Again, I was given a copy of this book to review from Bethany House. They ask for honest opinions so everything I have written is how I feel and view this book. *
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Katherine's first filling
My poor little girl had her first filling the other week. I say first filling but truly hope she never needs another. I unfortunately have been plagued with cavity prone teeth. The dentist said they don't know why it just seems some people have them. May neither of my daughters have that issue.
To get Katherine ready I tried to read Just going to the Dentist. I wouldn't recommend that. It actually makes the situation scarier. So we just tried to down play it. (Note: I had to hide my fear of the dentist from her).
She did great. They have a new dentist at the office and she was amazing. Joking and putting Katherine at total ease. At the end Katherine even got a certificate of Bravery that comes with a coupon for a free kids meal at Chick Fil A. I asked why I never got one and then had to realize that the key word was Bravery. Opps. Looks like I will be paying full price.
To get Katherine ready I tried to read Just going to the Dentist. I wouldn't recommend that. It actually makes the situation scarier. So we just tried to down play it. (Note: I had to hide my fear of the dentist from her).
She did great. They have a new dentist at the office and she was amazing. Joking and putting Katherine at total ease. At the end Katherine even got a certificate of Bravery that comes with a coupon for a free kids meal at Chick Fil A. I asked why I never got one and then had to realize that the key word was Bravery. Opps. Looks like I will be paying full price.
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| I brought her blankie to comfort her. She also was trying to get my Zune to work but the ear buds kept popping out. |
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| Not happy I was taking her picture because she had a bib on |
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| Getting ready |
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| Kids wear sunglasses because of the light |
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| 15 minutes later done. She didn't even need numbed |
Summer Vacation
Last week was the end of the school year here. That means we were super busy getting things ready for when the kids would be home (AKA getting rid of old clothes and toys of theirs so they didn't notice). We also were busy with Katherine's Kindergarten Picnic. She was so happy that Daddy was able to come. Usually he has to work on the events the school plans but due to working on Memorial Day he had Wednesday as a day off.
Ava got to come too since Pre K started later for her. Though she didn't join in much with the games. At every station they would tell Ava she could play and were met with her "No thank you." The one station she couldn't resist was........sidewalk chalk? We have sidewalk chalk at home. Wouldn't it be more exciting to do the things we don't get to at home? Whatever makes her happy I suppose.
Ava got to come too since Pre K started later for her. Though she didn't join in much with the games. At every station they would tell Ava she could play and were met with her "No thank you." The one station she couldn't resist was........sidewalk chalk? We have sidewalk chalk at home. Wouldn't it be more exciting to do the things we don't get to at home? Whatever makes her happy I suppose.
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| The Classic Sack Race |
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| Fun with the Parachute |
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| Ava likes to draw |
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| Having a special moment playing with Daddy |
Friday, June 1, 2012
June is busting out all over
If you know and like musicals I bet you have that song in your head now. : ) I have been missing, I know. So much has been going on and I just seem to want the quiet time at night and not have to "work" at writing. Sorry.
I am back now though. So let the rejoicing begin. We will start with the monthly trait to work on with FlyLady. June is all about drinking your water.
Since the weather has been getting hotter it should be easier to remember to drink your water. FlyLady even has a water bottle for sale in her FlyShop. I personally like the plastic cups that look like they are disposable. They are about $5.00 at Walmart. They have some with gel walls but my mother said they will "sweat". Mine is just the basic double wall and I can have ice water without all the water marks on my table.
Now we all know that our bodies are made up of mostly water but what does that mean? Turns out it should be a sign that we NEED WATER!!!! Many of our health issues could be fixed by upping our water intake. Tiredness, constant headaches, dizziness.... all signs of dehydration. Plus ice water burns more calories and will make your stomach feel fuller so you can lose weight that way.
Thinking of how bland and boring water will be if you have to constantly be drinking it to get the 8 glasses a day? You're in luck. Online (I used Pinterest) there were dozens of water flavors to make naturally. So if you go out to get lemons or strawberries and blueberries for your kids snack, pop some in a container of water.
Get your kids into drinking to by setting up a taste testing of flavors. Let them make their own flavors up by combining fruits and herbs together.
What I am trying to say is have fun with it!
I am back now though. So let the rejoicing begin. We will start with the monthly trait to work on with FlyLady. June is all about drinking your water.
Since the weather has been getting hotter it should be easier to remember to drink your water. FlyLady even has a water bottle for sale in her FlyShop. I personally like the plastic cups that look like they are disposable. They are about $5.00 at Walmart. They have some with gel walls but my mother said they will "sweat". Mine is just the basic double wall and I can have ice water without all the water marks on my table.
Now we all know that our bodies are made up of mostly water but what does that mean? Turns out it should be a sign that we NEED WATER!!!! Many of our health issues could be fixed by upping our water intake. Tiredness, constant headaches, dizziness.... all signs of dehydration. Plus ice water burns more calories and will make your stomach feel fuller so you can lose weight that way.
Thinking of how bland and boring water will be if you have to constantly be drinking it to get the 8 glasses a day? You're in luck. Online (I used Pinterest) there were dozens of water flavors to make naturally. So if you go out to get lemons or strawberries and blueberries for your kids snack, pop some in a container of water.
Get your kids into drinking to by setting up a taste testing of flavors. Let them make their own flavors up by combining fruits and herbs together.
What I am trying to say is have fun with it!
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