The Berenstain Bears *Book Review*

About The Berenstain Bears and the Easter Story:
Brother, Sister and Honey Bear learn that there is more to Easter than chocolate bunnies, marshmallow chicks, and jelly beans when their Sunday School teacher has them sit in on a play entitles The Easter Story.   A great way to teach children that it may be OK to enjoy Easter treats but they must not forget that Salvation is much sweeter then candy.

My Review:
It is so easy for our children to get caught up with candy, bunnies, and eggs because of the worlds view on Easter (the malls, TV commercials, bulletin boards, and well everywhere).  I loved reading this book because I loved reading how the hearts changed in Brother and Sister Bear.  We just celebrated Easter so my daughter kept stopping me in the middle of reading so she could tell me more about Easter.  :) This story is perfect for any child so they can really learn the true meaning of Easter.

About The Berenstain Bears All Things Bright and Beautiful:
Brother and Sister Bear are delighted when their Sunday school teacher takes the class on a special nature walk around Bear Country.  While the cubs are skeptical about what such a hike has to do with church, they quickly learn that God is the creator of all things in the environment.

My Review:
This story reminded me of one of my classes.  I took the kids out and we made nature bracelets and talked about all the things God made.  :) The pictures were very beautiful showcasing God's creation.  I also enjoyed some of the words in the book come from the song "All Things Bright and Beautiful" an older hymn but one I love.  This story is really a perfect book for any Sunday School classroom or Christian School.  I would use it during talks of creation or use it before or after taking your own nature walk.

About the Authors:
Stan and Jan Berenstain introduced the first Berenstain Bear books in 1962.  Mike Berenstain grew up watching his parents work together to write about and draw these lovable bears.  Eventually he started drawing and writing about them too.  Since the late 80's, he has been very much involved as a writer and illustrator with his family's creation, the Berenstain Bears.  He continues to work with his mother, Jan, creating new books, writing and illustrating.  The antics and activities of Mike's three children have provided inspiration for many Berenstain Bears books over the years.  Though Stan died in 2005, Jan and Mike continue to create the delightful Bear adventures from their family  home in Pennsylvania, in an area that looks much like the sunny dirt road deep in Bear Country.

Mia Bella's Gourmet Votive Candles *Giveaway*

Mia Bella's Gourmet Products have an amazing scent and quality that is hard to find elsewhere. You can smell these candles even before you open the box!

The Princess Twins Play in the Garden and The Princess Twins Play in the Garden **Review**

 About The Princess Twins and the Puppy:
Puppy is no where to be found after he is missing during teatime.   The two princesses become worried and start searching everywhere for him.  After hearing Puppy's helpless bark from the dark, scary basement, Abby must confront her fear of the dark by trusting God and asking for courage to rescue her beloved puppy friend.

My Review:
I have a 4 year old aspiring princess so this story was very fun for her.  She is not ready for "reading" yet but she was very cute as she "read" and was point to the words on the page.  The book was very good timing as we will be bringing our new puppy home at the end of May.  I love that the story does bring back to a serious issue for many kids, being scared of the dark.  The other night I was walking up the stairs and the lights were off and my daughter said, "Mom we don't have to be scared because Jesus is with us." My heart melted and I agreed with her!  :)



About The Princess Twins Play in the Garden:
One princess sits out of all the fun activities through the day because she is afraid of getting her dress dirty.  With a little encouragement and a nudge from the other kids, the princess learns to embrace God's little gifts: a lovely day, ladybugs, and even some mud.

My review:
My 4 year old is 100% girly girl, she wears a dress every day!!!  My daughter has never been to cautious of getting dirty though, we do a lot of crafts and play outside and since she is always in a dress she just assumes mom can get it clean later.  I think my daughter was excited to see that the princess finally let go and went and had fun!

 Here is Selah "reading."  

About the Author:

Mona Hodgson is the author of more than twenty-two children's books.  She lives in Cottonwood, Arizona, where she's learning to be a real girl of the Bible. 

About the Illustrator: 

Red Hansen began illustrating books during college when he as working at Waterford Institute, an education company dedicated to helping children learn to read by book and interactive methods  Red has completed a number of books.  He currently lives in Celebration, Florida, with his wife and children.  

About I can Read!:

the first I Can Read! book, Little Bear, writtten by Else Homelund Minarik and illustrated by Maurice Sendake, was published in 1957 and is still cherished by young readers.  Today, I Can Read! is teh number one beginning reader series in the country.  It features more award-winning titles, authors and illustrators than any other beginning reader series.  It features more than 200 titles for readers at five beginning reading levels.  

About Zonderkidz:

Zonderkidz is a division of Zondervan, inspires young lives through imagination and innovation.  As the leader in Christian childrn's communications, it produces bestselling and award-winning Bibles, books, board books, graphic novels, audo, video, and digital products that awaken the hearts and t

ouch the soals of kids under 16 and the people who love them, from family members to educators.  

Awww, I love you so so much

We were out shopping the other day and we saw these adorable hats with a letter on them.  I did not buy them but I am considering going back to get them.  They are grey and pink so I am thinking my daughter could wear it with most of her outfits!  :)  My daughter was also asking if she could get her ears pierced... I am not really ready for that.  How old did you allow your daughter to get her ears done?  


So sweet daughter of mine!  I love you so so much!  

First Home Improvement Incident

Well we are homeowners and what comes with being a homeowner is... repairs!  


The other night I loaded and started the dishwasher and then headed out to youth group, the kids were with a sitter.  I got a phone call from the sitter and she said she was smelling something burning in the kitchen and opened the dishwasher and found the bottom water sprayer thingy had unattached and had fallen right on the heat source...:(  I was able to later detach the piece and I am sure we can replace just that piece but I have not heard back from the place that I called??  I just needed to know how much the part was and I called on Thursday and never heard back from them??  


I guess all I can do is wait for the hubby to get home and figure it out.   Also, Praise God that it only melted some plastic and no other damage occurred! 

KichenAid Mania *Giveaway*

WELCOME TO THE KITCHEN AID MANIA GIVEAWAY!We are giving away a white KitchenAid KSM150PSWH Artisan Series 5-Quart Mixer to one lucky reader! This is a perfect Mother's Day gift to every one who loves baking or simply just being in the kitchen! This was made possible by Bay Area Mommy, American Family and some of the most awesome bloggers!

KitchenAid KSM150PSWH Artisan Series 5-Quart Mixer
- Retail Value: $349.99
- Color: White
- 325-watt mixer with 10 speeds; 5-quart stainless steel bowl
- Tilt-back head for easy access to mixture
- 1 piece pouring shield with large chute for adding ingredients
- Includes flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip
- Measures 14 by 8-2/3 inches by 14 inches; 1-year warranty

Giveaway will run from April 29 at 12AM EST to May 9 at 11:59PM EST. Open to the US only. Must be at least 18 years old to be eligible.

GOOD LUCK!  So excited for one person to be blessed by this awesome prize!  :)

Little man got a hair cut

Titus had his second hair cut and it was a huge challenge!  He was so squirmy and whiny, but we got through it and it looks so adorable.   I have already heard from 2 people that he looks more like his daddy.   AHHHH!  :)  I really wanted him to get a hair cut since he is getting some pictures taken next Thursday.  :)  


I could tell the lady cutting it was a little stressed out as she kept giving big sighs.  I don't know if she was trying to be rude or if it was just her coping mechanism to get through it.  I had Titus on my lap and had to keep re positioning him.  


Any tips or advice on infant or little kid hair cuts?  

Another Selah Story...

As we were leaving the YMCA this morning my daughter asked me what we were going to do the rest of the day.  I started listing everything off, go home, eat lunch, take a nap, get groceries... but she  stopped me at grocery store and said "why?"  I replied, "we need food so I can make some meals this weekend so we don't go hungry."  

The best part is coming...she is going to melt your heart.  

Then she looks at me in the most serious way and tells me this, 

"Mom, Jesus will give us food just like he gave that boy more food who had 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread.  He just kept making more and more food and handed out food to everyone oh and Jesus ate and ate some too.  So we can just ask Jesus for food."  

I love knowing that she is learning all these wonderful Bible stories and can recall them all on her own and tell the entire story to me!  :)  LOVE LOVE LOVE IT!!  

This mom is PRAISING HIM for such a sweet treat.  I pray that God would continue to guide my husband and I in our parenting skills.  AMEN!!

What have your kids done or said lately that made you proud?  

What's to come and what has been up with Praises of a Wife and Mommy!

Hi everyone!

It sure has been a busy month here with moving!  I promise I will try to get some good pictures very soon!  :)  I have not taken any pictures since I haven't gotten everything they way I want it yet.  I have been on my Pintrest boards wanting to create so many of the items I pinned...it is dangerous!  :)

Beyond just moving and getting settled I have truly just been enjoying the new living space, enjoying the deck and the yard.  :)  

I do have a couple funny stories to share before I forget.  

One happened this morning.  I sent my daughter to go get dressed and she came out of her room holding a dress she wanted to wear.  I said, "make sure you wear something on your arms and legs it is going to be a cool day."  Somehow she misplaced the dress she was going to wear and was yelling, "dress where are you, dress come out."  I told her to look some more in which her response was priceless, "mom, my dress got up and walked away, it is no where to be found."  I had such a good laugh...laughter truly is the best medicine around!  :) 

The other story just makes me wonder... what are they going to do with that?  This weekend is dump day so everyone is putting unwanted items at their curb and the garbage people will be coming and collecting all the items.  Well, I have seen some very interesting, dirty, gross, items on the curb.  The funny part is there are tons of trucks and vehicles with trailers that keep driving by picking through things.  I will admit I am sure there are a lot of good items being thrown out but some of the items people are picking up are making me wonder in my head why they want it?  I am so curious to know are they going to take that trash and make something really unique?  I know there could be some very fun projects out there for restoring and cleaning things so I wish I could just follow someone around and see why they pick something up and then see what they can do with it.  Have you ever gone dumpster diving or pick up anything from the side of the road? 

Not only has it been a busy month with moving but I have been sent many items to review and several are also giveaways!  I feel extremely blessed every time a company sends me a product to review!  :) YAY!  

I have 2 giveaways currently so make sure you take a minute to enter.  The rafflecopter form is very simple and allows for easy and quick entries.  :) 

Enter to win a Build a Dream Play House

and 

Teething Tots Necklace

Hope you all have an awesome weekend!  I know I will as my sister is coming to visit!  :)  YAY

Teething Tots Review and **Giveaway**

What is Teething Tots:

"Teething Tots is a home-based, ‘mommy' run business. I’m a mom of two wonderful daughters and my interest in providing natural teething alternatives to other parents blossomed from my own experience with a teething infant. My oldest daughter started to show teething symptoms at the age of 3 months. I had been aware of Amber Necklaces prior to having my own child; however, it wasn't until the topic of teething came up at a mommy & me group that I seriously considered the necklaces as an option. In an effort to ease her symptoms without resorting to over the counter pain medication, we tried a Baltic Amber Teething Necklace. Within a day, her excessive drooling had greatly diminished and there were positive changes in her sleeping patterns. I took no chances with my second daughter and put an amber teething necklace on her when she was 3 months of age. She was showing no signs of teething but, I thought I would be preventative rather than reactive this time around. To my surprise her first tooth went almost unnoticed. It wasn’t until I was feeding her breakfast one morning that I noticed a brand new tooth sticking out of her bottom gum. Since then, she has teethed with no overt teething symptoms. I've been overly pleased with the results we've experienced with our Baltic Amber teething necklace. The idea of developing Teething Tots into a home business came from the interest I received from other like-minded individuals looking for a natural pain relief alternative for their children's teething symptoms." 

I was sent one of the infant necklace's to review and also giveaway!  So what is the infant necklace?

"Once an infant starts teething, it can be a painful process for infants and parents alike. Ideal for both boys and girls to wear, Baltic Amber teething necklaces are designed to be worn (not chewed ) to help diminish the pain and discomfort associated with teething. Unlike teething gels, powders or pain relief syrups, these traditional beaded amber necklaces imported from the Baltic region provide a non-invasive and side-effect free remedy for the pain and complications of teething.

Amber is fossilized sap which contains trace amounts of succinic acid, a known anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. The warmth from the skin releases the active ingredient in the amber. The active ingredient is quickly absorbed into the blood stream, when worn against the skin, soothing a baby naturally while he or she struggles with the pain of cutting brand new teeth. By having your baby wear the necklace everyday, it will help to reduce the common symptoms related to teething such as; redness in the cheeks, swollen gums, diaper rashes and fevers."

My Review:

I have used the necklace on my son for 3 days now, but removing it during nap and bed time.  I can't say 100% sure if the necklace is working or not?  I know my son is teething and I know he has been cranky on and off for a few days.  He still seems to be drooling and biting on anything to get more relief.  I do like the easy twist bead to put the necklace on and off.  I also think that each necklace is gender neutral so any boy or girl could wear it.  I will continue to put it on my son and hope to see more relief.  I think it is great to try a more natural approach rather then running to Tylenol or other over the counter medications.  I do know that on the morning we tried the necklace I had a crying and cuddly boy but by afternoon we were outside playing and having a wonderful time.  So was it the necklace?  a good nap?  fresh air?  Hard to really know, but I do know I will continue to use our necklace and report back any other correlations.  :)

We received the Rainbow Bean Necklace shown below:

Praises of a Wife and Mommy was blessed to receive a "Infant Necklace" from  http://teethingtots.com  to conduct a review/giveaway.  All opinions are 100% mine. 




Ready to win a infant necklace??  Enter the 


Rafflecopter form below.

Wordless Wednesday

BEEP BEEP!!!  

Build a Dream Playhouse Review and **Giveaway**

What is Build a Dream Playhouse:
"Build a Dream Playhouses™ was founded by a Cleveland father dedicated to the futures of the City of Cleveland, the State of Ohio, and the imaginations of children. To achieve that, and reflecting on his city’s hard times, he collaborated with the world famous Nottingham-Spirk Design Associates, a group of 3 to 9 year old children, and the Smurfit Stone Container Corporation, Build a Dream Playhouses™ is now proud to introduce to you what we believe to be the most innovative, fresh, and fun playhouses on the market. We hope you enjoy our products and we look forward to introducing many more in the near future."




The Mission of Build a 


Dream Playhouse:


"At Build a Dream Playhouses™, we strive to deliver safe, affordable, eco-friendly products that stimulate and encourage the endless imagination of ALL children. Our quality products offer the tangible framework for children to place their intangible dreams." 




My Review: 


I am happy to report that I without the help of my husband, set up the "Snack Shack!"  GO ME!   :)  HUGE THUMBS UP!!  I know there are a ton of single mom's out there and ladies you can set this up!  The instructions were pictures guiding with alphabet letters, "a" matches with "a", etc etc.  There was only one little confusing part but within a few minutes I figured it out and completed the playhouse.  


The next stage was painting and making it perfect for my little daughter.  We went to the store and she was allowed to pick out 3 colors to paint which included pink, purple, and yellow.  :)  Here are a couple pictures of her painting.  (She did do a good job but I did later touch up the painting.)


The only concern I have is how to store the "Snack Shack."  It is cardboard but it will take time to disassemble.  I wish there was an easier way for storage but I think we will have to keep it in the play room for summer and then for winter take it apart and hope to put it together again next year.  

 After painting for a little while she decided to paint her hands...silly girl!

After the "Snack Shack" was finished being painted we brainstormed a name for it.  We  titled it "Selah-Made Lemonade."  We also decided to put a Bible verse on the top signs (hubby did them) We used a verse that uses the word taste because well it fit!  :)  

Here Selah is tracing over the Menu, which was lemonade, brownies, and cookies. :) The company does state that the playhouses are meant for indoor use since they are not made to withstand the outside elements, but with parental eyes we used ours outside. 

ARE YOU READY TO ENTER TO WIN YOUR OWN BUILD A PLAYHOUSE ??  Winner will get to chose between the "Cosmic Cruiser" or the "Dream Machine."

13 Month Old "Climber"

 Time continues to be flashing extremely fast but I suppose that is a normal response when talking about babies and growing.  Today marks 13 months for Titus!  Happy 13 months little boy!


Ever since my little guy started walking he also started climbing, climbing on to chairs, tables, stairs, and everything and anything he sees.  I have managed to remain calm but he has a couple bruises to show from a couple little tumbles. 


Many of you can probably relate to a climber, but this is new for me.  My daughter never did much for climbing.  I have just considered this one of the many things that make boys boys?  Anyone agree who have one of each??  


Titus continues to show more of his personality and he is transforming into a little boy and growing out of his baby stage.  I continue to hang on tight to my little baby but I love this fun age of exploring at the same time.  


I do have one prayer request for Titus: Please pray that his Iron levels raise.  They have been low for a few weeks so we need to get them back on track!  Thanks in advance for your prayers!  I will give you a praise report when they are back to normal!  (They said this is normal for babies iron levels to lower especially when weaning.)  


Titus seems to enjoy the new house with his new bedroom.  He still has not slept all through the night but I keep believing that he will, would love that to be in your prayers too!  :) :) :)  The last few weeks we have been weaning him from breast feeding and it is going well.  Sometimes I just need to remember to give him more cuddles as I feel he just needs some mommy cuddle time.  I think in the next couple weeks he will be completely off of mommy milk.  I am ready to have my body back but at the same time it is a little sad...only a little sad.

WE LOVE YOU TITUS!  :)  

Hair fun!

Many of you know I am in a wedding in June so it is time to find a good style for the hair.  This week I had this done...not sure about it yet.  I saw a similar picture on Pintrest but know I kinda want my hair half up, but I am still waiting on the Bride to give more direction on what she wants.  I am willing to bet she is not really thinking much about her bridesmaids which is fine!  LOL, I never cared what my bridesmaids did with their hair.  :)
So anyone have any suggestions?  :) 

Puppy Time! :) Help we need a name!!

One of the many reasons we wanted a house was so we could get a family dog.  :)  We had a dog before when we lived in a house but when we found him a new home before we moved into our old apartment.  I have really missed our little Izzy!  

Well, one of our students from youth group had a dog who had puppies a little before Easter and today we went and looked at all the adorable puppies, which there were 8 of them!!!  It is a blessing for us to find a cute puppy and the family is almost giving us the puppy for free so Praise GOD!  :)  We feel so blessed and we are so excited!  

The dog is a mixture of Boxer, Chow, Spaniel, and Terrier.  I think they were so adorable!  :)   We have a few weeks to get everything we need for the puppy.  We get to go visit her a couple more times and pick her up to bring to her home on May 27th,  which won't be here soon enough according to my daughter.

HELP us PICK A NAME!  

The God Box **Book Review**

**I was sent a copy of The God Box by Mary Lou Quinlan to review, all opinions are 100% mine.**

THE GOD BOX by Mary Lou Quinlan

What is the story about:
"'When Mary Lou Quinlan's beloved mother, Mary Finend, dies, her family is bereft- until Mary Lou searches for her mother's "God Box," her private cache of notes to God on Behalf of family, friends and strangers.  To Mary Lou's amazement, she finds not one but 10 boxes stuffed with hundreds of tiny petitions that span the last twenty years of her mother's life.

Note by note, Mary Lou unearths a treasure of her mother's wishes and worries and insight.  Mary asked god for everything from the right flooring for her daughter's home to a cure for her own blood cancer.  Her requests, penned on scraps of paper, were presented without expectation - the ultimate expression of letting go.

Follow Mary Lou's emotional journey as she uncovers her mother's innermost thoughts-nostalgic, surprising and even shocking.  As she recalls life with the women who was her best friend, Mary Lou discovers her own more empathetic, engaged self-the woman her mother had believed in all along.

Poignantly written and beautifully designed, The God Box is a gift for every mother, every daughter, every person who, regardless of beliefs, trusts in the permanence of love and the power of family."

My thoughts:
I knew I would relate well with the author since I had lost my mom to cancer in 2002.  No matter what your age is or the age of your mother, losing my mom was the hardest thing I have ever endured.  The reason this book grabbed my attention was simply relating to the lost feeling right after Mary Lou's mother passed away.   It is such a fog and you hope to see the one you love walking down the stairs or see them where ever you remember them most.  Mary Lou was in the midst of preparing for the funeral when her brother mentioned the God Box and Mary and the family went searching to find it.  Mary found it but also 9 more!  A total of 10 God Boxes from the last 20 years.  This story is such an encouragement which reminded me to "surrender."  Surrender every worry, illness, question, or what ever it may be give it to God since he knows best.  That is just want Mary Lou's mother did.  If she was out to eat with a friend and they had a pain she would find the receipt write down the need and trust God to handle it.  Once she placed it in the box it was like her faith rose and she was saying "I no longer will carry this burden as I will place my trust in God."  I LOVE THAT!  This story was a very quick read as I read it in one day in two 45 minute sessions.  I appreciate the challenge from the author to do a God Box not sure in which way but I absolutely love the idea.  I think the biggest reason is just leaving something for my kids to go through and see how God worked things out, healed people, and other testimonies!
If you are looking for a great gift for your mom for Mother's Day then I suggest this nice book!
Stay encouraged by joining one or all of the God Boxes social networks:
Website: http://www.thegodboxproject.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/godboxproject
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theGodBoxproject
Pintrest: http://pinterest.com/marylouquinlan/

About the Author: Mary Lou Quinlan:

Mary is the author of three books, an inspirational speaker and an expert on how women think and buy.  She is the founder of Mary Lou Quinlan & Co. and Just Ask a Woman and appears frequently in national media.  Her proudest achievement is her A+ in daughter, and she hopes her mother would be especially pleased with this book.   

Mary Lou and her husband, Joe, live in New York City and Bucks County, Pennsylvania, along with their dog, Rocky.  

  

Growing girl: Birth to 12 years old

Some of you have noticed that every month I post a baby picture with the age of my son.  I truly enjoy looking at all the changes he makes.  He is growing up so quickly!  (A 13 month update is coming on Tuesday!) 

Well, my husband help me find this neat video portraying a girl from baby to 12 years old.  The video is just under 3 minutes and it is really fun to watch her grow up.  We notice a huge difference from 10 to 11 when she started to wear makeup.  :)  I also loved seeing all the hair styles from this little girl.  She must have had some great techy parents creating this fun video for her.  :) 

ENJOY the video

Lotte Time Lapse: Birth to 12 years in 2 min. 45. from Frans Hofmeester on Vimeo.

Winner Announced!

Congratulations!

Encouragement from the bible about being intentional with how we live. Seize every opportunity for the Kingdom of Christ.

Colossians 4:5-6 NIV 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Worship Wednesday: You Are Good

Genesis 22:5

New International Version He said to his servants, "Stay here with the donkey while I 
and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we 
will come back to you.


The first time the word worship is used in the scriptures in Genesis 22:5.  (The word "worship" we know Cain and Able made sacrifices, and Adam spent time with God in the Garden.)  The neat thing about the word "worship" being used for the first time here is God was asking Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac!  Is it not strange that the first time the word worship was used was when God wanted us to get us out of our comfort zone.  Abraham waited a very long time for a son and now God wanted him to sacrifice him.  Isaac was so dear to his heart he had prayed and cried and pleaded for decades for a son an then he had a son and now God wanted him to do what!?!  


The attitude of Abraham that we read in Genesis 22:5  is one of "worship."  The neat thing I thought of was, worship can happen during scary times.  WE can still worship and we should!  I think during those times of panic or nervousness that worship is the perfect time to hear God's voice and get direction and guidance.  


Thankfully we know the rest of the story when an Angel appeared to Abraham and he did not have to sacrifice Isaac.  

I guess for me the one thing I was really gaining from this story and scripture is getting out of my comfort zone during worship time.  Giving it all to God!  What will that look like for me to get out of my comfort zone?  Not sure but I am sure I will here a still small voice tug on my heart soon.  Some of you it might be raising your hand during worship, getting on your knees, waving a banner, dancing, praying out load... the list is endless.  I encourage you to seek God and ignore the butterflies and lies and surrender it all and not hold back.  Worship with everything you have!  


GO GOD GO!  :)  Looking forward to being stretched and out of my comfort zone.  :) 

New Deck and New Chairs for Deck

My kids got a little Easter money from grandma, thanks Nana!  :) The chairs were the top pick from the kiddos.  :)  

A few weeks ago while walking through Wal-Mart my daughter spotted these chairs but since we were moving I told her we needed to wait until we were in our new house.  

Well, yesterday we had to make a Wal-Mart run to buy a baby gate and a few other items and again my daughter spotted the chairs.  My daughter was so happy to bring it home and sit in it.  At the store she wanted to buy herself a pink chair and a purple chair for her brother but I convinced her to get green for her brother.  ;)  

I am positive the chairs will get a lot of great use this summer, as well as our deck will see us a lot!  Loving and feeling blessed to have a big beautiful deck to enjoy the nice weather on.  :) 

Spring Gift Card Giveaway Round 2: $75.00 American Express GC

Mama to 4 Blessings, Chubby Cheeks Thinks and Rats and More along with several other wonderful bloggers are teaming up to bring you The Spring Gift Card Event (round 2/April)! For the Spring season we will be offering a new gift certificate giveaway each month of Spring! For April we are offering a $75.00 American Express Gift Card!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Welcome to the Neighborhood

WELCOME to the Neighborhood!  

What a blessing it was for one of our new neighbors to stop by with a little welcome basket.  I have moved a few times now and it seems the "friendly neighbor welcome" is something from the past or only seen in movies.  It was a much needed break to talk for a few minutes and eat some cake (not shown in picture)  they also brought.

Have you ever gotten a welcome from a new neighbor when you move?  

Have you ever given a gift to a new neighbor?  

I personally cant recall a time that I have gone to a new neighbor to introduce myself but I do remember inviting over a new neighbor for dinner and to this day we are great friends!  I really want to work on making sure to take a few minutes to be kind, introduce myself and my family, and bless them with a meal or plant or anything really.  

  We actually had just met them a few weeks ago as they had just started coming to our church and then what do you know we move very close to them.  HOW COOL!  :)  Always nice to know a new neighbor. 

I am very excited to meet more of my new neighbors.  :)  I have seen several people walking by with their dogs, so many dogs in this neighborhood.  It will be an exciting day when we get to add a dog into the mix.  :) :) 

Another neat thing to note about our neighborhood is they have block meetings at the local school every month.  There was a flyer at our door inviting us to the next meeting on Monday.  The flyer mentioned they have the following people give reports:  Principle, Police Officer, President of the block group, and a random neighbor.  It said they will discuss yard clean up, new protocols, safety, and a few other things.  I have never seen a group like this in the past so I am very curious to see how it is run and what exactly is discussed.  

Has anyone ever been to a community/block group like the one mentioned above?  

We are also so thankful for our wonderful friends who blessed us this weekend.  We had 5 friends help us load/unload the Uhaul, 2 friends help us scrub the apartment clean (it looked brand new), and 4 friends babysit the kids for us.   I must fill out some thank you cards and get some chocolate or something.  :) 

Well, that is all for now, we still have a lot more unpacking to do.  :)  

Hope your weekend was wonderful!   

Magic Plant Crystal Water Beads GIVEAWAY

Magic Plant Crystal Water Beads:

Water beads are a revolutionary new and unique water conserving product for plants and cut flowers. The beads are being used in beautiful style by homeowners, interior designers and large companies alike.  Water beads change water into colorful shining beads, that resemble crystal balls in a clear glass container.







Simply put the small packet of beads into water. The water beads will expand, and you pour off the excess water.  Put the remaining beads into a clear glass or plastic vase or bowl and insert your plant, fresh flowers or artificial flowers.  For added beauty many people add a submersible light to really make the beads sparkle. This amazing new product combines environmental protection and beauty.



This Giveaway is sponsored by KJRamon Crafts, Freebies, & Giveaways

Moving in... *Update*

This mom is tired and exhausted and about to have a hot shower in our new house!  :)  YAY!

Moving is hard work but is worth it!  

I am so blessed and thankful for all the help we have received during the move.  We had people help load and unload the moving truck, people help clean our old apartment, and babysitters!  :)

God is so good to us!  :)  

GOOD NIGHT! 

Devo Time=WHEN?

“No bible, no breakfast. No bible, no bed.”

How do you ensure you make time for God each day? 

Leaping into action!

A 7th grader lept from his seat to steer the bus after his bus driver suffers from a heart attack while another boy comes to help by giving CPR.  

Good job boys! 

That is why it is so important for us as parents to discuss emergency procedures with our children!

Real Childhood Imaginations-AWESOME

I saw this video on facebook and I immediately thought, "wow, this kid is going to do something amazing when he gets older if he already made this amazing arcade out of cardboard.  He uses his imagination rather the playing video games all day."  

I just love love love the creative juices and the way this see's something and then makes it himself out of cardboard.  

Then when he got his first customer I was excited for him, but then the customer created such an amazing flash mob for him!  LOVED IT!  

I love hearing stories like this rather then what the actual news is reporting!  :)

So what are you doing to help your kids think outside the box and to be creative in their play?  :)

Under the Baobab Tree *Review*

"Under the Baobab Tree" is written by Julie Stiegemeyer and illustrated by  E.B Lewis 
 I recieved a copy of this book from Zondervan Christian publishing company to do my review.   I was not paid and all opinions are 100% mine. 


ABOUT THE STORY:
This inspiring story is about 2 siblings who go out to gather under the baobab tree in the hot and dry African savanna with other townsfolk.  The author get us more and more excited as we turn each page with anticipation of them arriving and wondering why they are going to the tree.  Once the arrive we learn that they all met at the baobab tree  to have a community worship service.  :) 


MY REVIEW:
Before the story starts they have a informational page on the history of the Baobab tree and I liked starting with a history lesson before jumping into the story.  I think the author grabbed our attention by keeping us in suspense wondering what they were going to do or who they were going to meet once they arrived at the Baobab tree.  The art work was wonderful that created a peace as you read it.  I loved the ending as we saw the entire community gathering for a church service.  It lead me and my daughter into a discussion about different ways of worship and then comparing how they worshiped with how we worship.  :)  Another great story for any mom or children's church collection.  


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Julie Stiegemeyer has authored more than twenty books for children.  She has also written for magazines like Nick Jr., newspapers, and devotional books.  Julie lives with  her husband and son in Elmhurst, Illinois.  


ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR: 
E.B. Lewis has illustrated more than fifty books for children.  Lewis studied graphic design and illustration at Temple University Tyler School of Art, where he discovered his medium of preference was watercolor.  His work is owned by numerous private collectors and sold by art galleries throughout the United states.  Presently, Lewis teaches at the University of Arts in Philadelphia, continues to paint and illustrate and is a member of The Society of Illustrators in New York City.  www.eblewis.com

Going to Heaven... But Wait There's More!

Devotion. Recieving Christ as Lord and Savior isn't all there is in the Christian life. Christ didn't just die to purchase us for heaven, but to give us a promise as well... His Holy Spirit.
Acts 1:1-5 (NIV 1984)
1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."

The Merchant and the Thief Book Review

The Merchant and the Thief: A Folktake from India is written by Ravi Zacharias and Illustrated by Laure Fournier.  I recieved a copy of this book from Zondervan Christian publishing company to do my review.  I was not paid and all opinions are 100% mine.


ABOUT THE STORY:
Author Ravi Zacharias tells the story of two Indian men, one in poverty and the other rich.  When the poor man becomes envious of the rich man he schemes to plan a way to steal but the rich man is aware of the man's intention and is able help the poor man find a different kind of treasure:  God's Love.


My Review: 
As I opened the packaging the color of the book grabbed my attention immediately.  The deep red and the illustration of the two men were wonderful.  In fact all the pictures were beautiful in deep colors.  I sat down to read the book to my 4 year old and I was excited to pull out moral of the story.  My daughter caught on and realized the bad choices that the one man made and how his heart was selfish without Christ.  We discussed how it would have been really easy for the rich man to become angry when he found out the poor man was trying to steal from him but he did not.  The man realized how much more important it was too share the love of Christ.  What a great story to remind and teach us that we should be sharing God's love and forgiveness to everyone!  I love finding awesome stories that help encourage my children to share their faith.  This is a must have for any mom or children's ministry at a church.


About the Author:
Ravi Zacharias is the author of more than twenty books, including the Godl Medallion Book Award winner "Can Man Live with out God?"  Dr. Zacharias is also the founder of Rave Zacharias International Ministries- a global team of evangelist traveling speakers with offices throughout the world.  Born in India, for the past 36 years, Dr. Zacharias has spoken all over the world and at numerous universities, including Harvard, Oxford and Princeton.  He is listed as a distinguished lecturer with Stanly Foundation and has appeared on CNN, Fox, and other international broadcasts.  As the 2008 Honorary Chairman of the National Day of Prayer, Dr. Zacharias spoke at the WHite House and Pentagon.  Dr. Zacharias resides with his wife in Atlanta.  They have three grown children.  www.rzim.org


About the Illustrator: ion at Swindon college in England.  
Laure Fournier was born in Antibes, France.  She studied at the Emile Cohl School of Art in Lyon (France) before continuing her education at Swindon college in England.  Since graduating, she has been working as a children's book illustrator.

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HE is RISEN!

Praying you remember and reflect on Christ and his sacrifice for us.

So thankful he is ALIVE!  :)  

Sensory, Easter Bath

What little girl or boy would not enjoy this sensory experience in the bath tub?  :) 


Put your Easter eggs in along with the fake grass and have some fun!  You can do an egg search and cover with the grass too! 


I think this is a new tradition in our house!  

Petite Box: a mom and baby subscription *Review*

What type of sippy cup should my baby use?  Wipes?  Baby Food? Bath Supplies?  Diapers? Medicine? Toys? So many choices so many brands! As a mother I know how hard it is to make decision after decision and pray and hope you make the best choice for baby and for yourself.  


Petite Box is a new high-end mom and baby subscription service that is just launching in the US.  Many of the products will be "new to the market" and available to subscribers before they are accessible to the general consumer.  Each month subscribers will receive an elegant package with an assortment of premier products that have been lovingly curated by the Petite Box team of experts from beauty to bath products for mom to the newest innovations for baby. 


Petite Boxes are available for mom's 17 weeks pregnant until baby is 12 months old.  You can start your prescription at any time and cancel at any time.  You can pay per month at $25, do a 3 month 
subscription for $70 and save $5, or do a 6 month subscription for $130 and save $20.  

My Review:

This was not a paid post and honest opinions 

were used. The opinions are solely my own may  

and may vary from others. Thank you to Petite 

Box for the opportunity to review your 

product and service.

The box arrived in the mail and I was surprised at how nice the box was and neatly it was packed.  I like the box as it can be re-purposed for so many different things.  

The items I recieved in my box include:

-Momma Spill Proof Cup with Dual Handles

-Angel Dear Blankie

-Haba Kringlering Teething toy

- Dr. Hauschka Lavender Bath Oil

-Happy Family-Happy Squeeze

-Happy Family-Baby Pouches

My son loved his new sippy cup and his new teething ring.  The sippy cup is very neat as it is spill proof but also has not valve so cleaning is very simple.  

The other items in the box were nice to try.  I loved the Happy Baby food.  I never had tried the baby food in pouches before and I loved how easy it was to feed without using a spoon!  :)  The Happy Baby Food is one that would be perfect for any mom on the go.  :) 

The lavender bath relaxed me while I was bathing both my kids.   :)  What a great product to use right before bed.  :) 

Are you expecting or know someone who is?  Then start your subscription to Petite Box Today:

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