Friday, May 30, 2014

Weekly Recap






Are you finished your homeschooling year?  We have about two weeks to go which means we are a bit behind and in scramble mode!  I want to finish strong and on a good note but I want to finish.  I don't know why some subjects just seem to drag.  We have company coming in the end of June and we will be DONE by then Lord willing!

Here is what happened in bloggy land:


A First Look at Diggerland USA! Opening June 14, 2014 in Berlin, NJ!! 

 

The Universe: From Comets to Constellations Curriculum #REVIEW

 

Apologia - What on Earth Can I do? Set #REVIEW

 

E is for Ecclesiastes #abcblogging

Moms' Night Out: book, devotional & movie! #REVIEW

 

and at AsTheyGrowUp.com:

Diggerland USA - A Contruction Themed Theme Park 

What Makes A Great Birthday Party? Sahara Sam's Asks!

Join American Bible Society's Bible Study for Signed, Sealed, Delivered!

 

Moms' Night Out: book, devotional & movie! #REVIEW

A Rup Life received product to facilitate this post. This post contains affiliate links. 

If you haven't seen the preview for the new movie Moms' Night Out - you must be living under a rock!! I haven't had the time to go see the movie (it is on my wish list!) yet - you know how it is Mom nights that are kid free are rare!  I did have the opportunity to read the book based on the screenplay and I've been reading the devotional!  I have to tell you chapter one of the book had me cracking up!  It is rare that a book EVER does that!

The whole premise of this book/movie is that one Mommy is having a bit of a tough / crazy time with where she is at in life.  (Anyone with young children will immediately identify with the character Allyson!)  She decides a night out is just what she needs to regroup and invites two other mom's along.  That is when the real crazy comes out!

The novelization by Tricia Goyer was just so funny!  I could relate to the moms love for the kids and how they dealt with the craziness of motherhood.  The story has a great ending and you know that they ladies are genuinely in love with God and their families! I devoured this book because the story was light yet powerful.  I laughed out loud throughout.  Just maybe this book is the sort of thing we should give mommies when their little ones turn 2!!!  It might help some mommies cope a little better!

I've also had the opportunity to review the devotional Moms' Night Out and Other Things I Miss: Devotions To Help You Survive .  This has been a little gem!  Kerri really weaves wonderful stories so beautifully that you don't realize how convicted you will feel until the end.  Each devotional has a short read, questions to ask yourself and a prayer.  I love how easy it is to use this book and how fast it is.  We are all busy but you can fit this one in. 

All in all I loved both books and would highly recommend reading them!



Additional Information:


About the book Moms' Night Out

Moms' Night Out is a novelization of the hilarious family comedy that celebrates real family life---where everything can go wrong and still turn out all right.
All Allyson and her friends want is a peaceful, grown-up evening of dinner and conversation . . . a long-needed moms' night out. But in order to enjoy high heels, adult conversation and food not served in a bag, they need their husbands to watch the kids for a few hours-what could go wrong?
Chronicling one night out gone awry, three harried moms, their husbands, a sister-in-law with a misplaced baby, a tattoo parlor owner, a motorcycle gang, and a bewildered cabbie all learn to embrace the beautiful mess called parenting. This book spotlights the unfulfilled expectations and serial self-doubts many moms feel . . . then reassures us that the key is raising kids in a loving home. Mom's Night Out is an endearing, true-to-life comedy.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/wAT15
 About the author: 

USA Today best-selling author Tricia Goyer is the author of over 35 books, including the three-book Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and Lead Your Family Like Jesus (co-written with Ken Blanchard). She has written over 500 articles for national publications and blogs for high traffic sites like TheBetterMom.com and MomLifeToday.com. She is the host of Living Inspired, a weekly radio show. Tricia and family live in Little Rock, Arkansas. They have six children.

Connect with Tricia: website, Twitter, Facebook

About the book Moms' Night Out and Other Things I Miss: Devotions To Help You Survive :

As a Mom, couldn't you use a good laugh?
Inspired by the endearing, true-to-life movie Moms' Night Out, comedian Kerri Pomarolli has created this light, yet inspiring devotional that will definitely make you laugh, but will also help you discover that indeed you are not alone, and that God's gracious provision of love and faithfulness is at work in your life and of your loved ones.
Whether you're running full-speed-ahead or disappointed that it's Monday (again), you'll find joy in these devotions where Kerri shares hilarious stories and insights on daily life. Messy homes, messy kids, lost pets, never ending casseroles, forgetful husbands, and the desire to just take a long bath . . . This world can be a funny place, and these stories are bound to prove it. Read a devotion to brighten your morning, or catch a few words to make you smile before bed. There's never a bad time for a good laugh, and as a Mom, you need a Moms' Night Out and Other Things I Miss: Devotions To Help You Survive.

Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/wAUa1
 About the author: 

Called Hollywood's "God Girl," Kerri Pomarolli is an accomplished actress, comedian, published author, Christian speaker and veteran of television---with credits that include 29 appearances on The Tonight Show and Comedy Central. 

Connect with Kerri: website, Twitter, Facebook 

About the film: 

The Moms' Night Out film features Sarah Drew (Grey's Anatomy), Sean Astin (THE LORD OF THE RINGS), Patricia Heaton (EVERBODY LOVES RAYMOND, THE MIDDLE), Alex Kendrick (COURAGEOUS), Robert Amaya (COURAGEOUS), Andrea Logan White (REVELATION ROAD), Kevin Downes (COURAGEOUS), and platinum-selling country recording artist Trace Adkins (THE LINCOLN LAWYER).








Thursday, May 29, 2014

E is for Ecclesiastes #abcblogging




I think my favorite book of the Bible has changed several times.  It is currently Ecclesiastes.  I went through a miscarriage in the fall.  It was VERY unexpected. You see I had been praying for another baby.  It is truly my hearts desire to have another.  There is one tiny snag...well two.  About 4 years ago I had a miscarriage and they found a huge tumor on one of my ovaries.  So they removed that one to be safe.  Then when I had my son I had a tubal ligation.  So while I have one ovary I was technically sterilized.  As you can guess I've regretted that decision but at the time I believed it was the best decision.  I have very scary pregnancies and had had 2 miscarriages on top of the 3 dangerous pregnancies.

So fast forward and last September I had a cycle that wouldn't end.  I'm talking 21+ days.  At the three month mark I took a pregnancy test - I honestly don't know why...I just did.  It was a whim and it guess what it came up positive right away.

It was a whirlwind.  ER visit, blood work, ultrasounds... so much happened in a short two weeks.  We also found out that I was about 8 weeks along and the pregnancy was not progressing at all.  I was devastated.  It felt like the pregnancy was a miracle - surely this one would end up with a beautiful miracle baby in my arms after a equally wonderful pregnancy.

Unfortunately that wasn't the case.  So I sat home and prayed and cried.  A lot.  One of my good friends told me to read Ecclesiastes.  She has known great loss in her life and it brings and has brought great comfort to her.

I read and re-read and continue to read this book.  I have fallen in love with it.  Oh the comfort it brings to me.  Especially chapter 3:

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.
He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoice, and to do good in his life.
And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it is the gift of God.
I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him.
That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past.
And moreover I saw under the sun the place of judgment, that wickedness was there; and the place of righteousness, that iniquity was there.
I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work.
I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts.
For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity.
All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again.
Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?
Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?



I'm not sure if we will every have our miracle baby.  I know God has shown me it is possible but most of all I want HIS will for that area of my life.  


This post is part of Blogging through the alphabet with BenandMe.com  Click on the image below to see what others are blogging about for the letter E. 



Ben and Me

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Apologia - What on Earth Can I do? Set #REVIEW

Apologia Review
When we started homeschooling two years ago Apologia Educational Ministries was one of the first companies I fell in love with.  Their science is a staple at our house.  The We Believe Series has been on my wishlist so I was ecstatic to have the opportunity to review book 4 in the series!

What we received:

What on Earth Can I Do? (hardback book) - $39.00
What On Earth Can I Do Notebooking Journal  - $24.00
What on Earth Can I Do? Junior Notebooking Journal  - $24.00
What on Earth Can I Do? Coloring Book - $8.00

The series is recommended for grades 1st-6th.  I however think it could easily be used in any grade.

This book is the fourth  and final book in the We Believe Series.  The focus of this book is Biblical Worldview of Stewardship.  This is a bible curriculum/study.  You can start with any of the books in the series, do them in order or use them independently.

How we used this set:

I planned on mainly using this book with my eleven year old 6th grader.  I soon found out that it was also a great study for my 13 year old 8th grader as well.  We used this two ways.  Sometimes I read the portions out loud and we talked about it and other times I assigned the reading independently.  My 11 year old used the notebooking journal and coloring page. 

Apologia Review
The textbook is hardback book has full color and is very sturdy.  It is broken up into the following lessons:

  • Lesson 1:  Your Story or God's Story?
  • Lesson 2:  Who Put You In Charge?
  • Lesson 3:  Will You Be Found Faithful?
  • Lesson 4:  Where Is Your Treasure?
  • Lesson 5:  Where Does Your Time Go?
  • Lesson 6:  Whose Life Is It Anyway?
  • Lesson 7:  Why Isn't It Easy Being Green?
  • Lesson 8:  What Will Happen When The Master Returns?


Each lesson is broken up in to key components:

  • The Big Idea - an introduction to the main topic of the lesson.
  • What You Will Do - goes over learning objectives for lesson.
  • Short Story- A short story featuring kids that shows a worldview in action.
  • Think About It- thought provoking questions.
  • Words You Need to Know - vocabulary from the lesson.
  • Hide It in Your Heart - Bible memory verses.
  • Integrated Learning -  articles to help further ideas.
  • What Should I Do? -  kids are given godly character traits to apply to their own lives based off the lesson.
  • Prayer - a sample pray to go along with the lesson.
  • Parables of Jesus - a parable adapted from the Bible.
  • Going Deeper - discussion questions.
  • House of Truth - four of the lessons end with this activity (and it builds on from other books.)

There is a sample lesson plan in the front of the book and in the front of the notebooking journal.  The suggested plan is 3 weeks per lesson done twice a week.  You can adapt this very easily though to fit your own schedule. 

Apologia Review
There are two versions of the notebooking journal.  We used the older kids version which is simply called Notebooking Journal.  For younger students you would want to use the Junior Notebooking Journal as it is adapted for them.

Apologia Review
The Notebooking journal is spiral bound.  In the front is a lesson plan schedule.  I love this!  I think it is so easy to just have your student cross off the boxes as they complete the tasks. This book is filled with color pages and is very visually appealing.  At the end of the book is a collection of mini-book activities which help cement what your child is learning.

Apologia Review
The coloring book is simply coloring pages to go along with the lessons.  I think these would especially be wonderful for younger students.




My Thoughts:

This book is packed with information.  I stated earlier that I thought it would be better for older students and by that I also mean maybe starting it at 4th or higher.  Especially if you have a sensitive child like mine.  When we read about King's Cross Station I personally teared up and so did my 6th grader.  At 11 I felt that it was age appropriate but I wouldn't feel as comfortable with a 6 year old and the subject material.  It was a great opportunity to talk about how the world was back then but I could see some kid's having trouble with processing the information.  I also think that it could easily be used for 7th-12th grade as a independent Bible Worldview course.  The stories included are so engaging that I think it would still hold an older child's interest and the worldview topic is still challenging for that age as well. 

I'm going to give you some pros and cons for this book set:

Pros:
  • Engaging stories
  • notebooking journal makes it easy to use as a complete course
  • thought provoking

Cons:
  • I wish it had the King James Version of the Bible (I know not everyone wants that but that is my peeve with many curriculum)
  • Readings can be long and have to be broken up
  • I had trouble figuring out when to use what coloring page - a schedule would have helped

Overall I really am enjoying this book.  I have found that some parts are really designed well for reading aloud.  Other stories are a bit longer and work better for independent reading.  That worked out fine once I got into the groove picking which parts to do what with.  I really like the combination of the journal and the book.  Having the activities readily available makes it a easy curriculum to incorporate into our schedule.  One particular thing that made me excited was when our Pastor preached the other day from a parable portion of scripture and my oldest came home and remarked about how that was similar to what he read in What on Earth.  He was able to expand on both the preaching and what he read.  This shows me things are sinking in!  Success!! I joke but honestly that is what all this teaching is really all about.  Will they learn enough that it sinks in and they can relate it to their world around them. 



Click to read Crew Reviews


Crew Disclaimer

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

The Universe: From Comets to Constellations Curriculum #REVIEW

May's Masterbook Mom's review is all about the sky!  We received The Universe: From Comets to Constellations which is part of the Investigate the Possibilities series.

About:

A positive experience of astronomy and the Creator that is hands-on!
Through simple experiments and fact-finding problems, the new Investigate the Possibilities astronomy curriculum brings to light God's design of this massive and intricate universe. Students will:
  • Read about the historical discoveries of great scientists of the past like Kepler, Galileo, and Newton, and how their words impact us today
  • Explore astronomy from the first observations of space, the creation of the telescope, the history of flight, and more
  • Be encouraged in their faith, reading Scriptures that highlight God's magnificent hand in creation.
The Universe: From Comets to Constellations helps students become engaged in the scientific process through their own natural curiosity. Using everyday household items, the inexpensive experiments help bring science to life.

Recommended for grades 3-8

My Thoughts:

For this review we received the student book, the student journal and the teacher's guide.  While you can just use the  student book I think the curriculum comes to life when adding all three and the set is just under $20!  Can't beat that for a hands on curriculum! 

What I loved about this book is that almost every activity uses items you would actually have around the house.  You won't have to go searching for complicated items to complete the activities.  The student journal is a great way to get your child use to using a science journal in their upper school years.  
 
My middle son loves science (and math) and especially loves experiments.   He is the type of kid that will pull a book like this off the shelf on a Saturday and work through several experiments.  

I'm pretty sure we have all of the previous books in this series:  Matter, The Earth, Forces & Motion, Energy and Water & Weather.  I would say this one feels just a tad bit older so it is great if you've done the other books or have a older elementary. 

My favorite part is the teacher's guide.  It is super easy to use.  Included are notes and tips as well as answers for the other books.  Have to love a TG that helps me teach easily!

 You can purchase your copy or find out additional information by visiting nlpg.com!
 
Join us tonight for the Facebook Release Party!  As always we will have some fun answering questions and there will be PRIZES!!  


Monday, May 26, 2014

A First Look at Diggerland USA! Opening June 14, 2014 in Berlin, NJ!!

What a fun life I have as a blogger we are really blessed to experience so many great adventures and products.  Last week on Thursday, May 22, 2014 my family was invited to the media day for a new construction themed adventure park called Diggerland! Located in Berlin, NJ it is the first of it's kind in the USA!



 This event started out with a fabulous spread of food and music for the guests.  Then the owners and media relations gave a few speeches to talk about this unique project.  Next we were free to walk around and see the park up close.  A few of the attractions were open and we had the chance to ride.  Unfortunately the weather gave us a bit of a hiccup but it didn't really take away from the excitement of the day!


The park officially opens June 14, 2014 - so it wasn't quite finished when we were there. (Just the small details like park benches, decorations and the gift shop are still being worked on.)   That said they have some AMAZING attractions!  I brought my three sons with me (13, 11, 3) and all can't wait to go back when it is opened. 

From what I saw there will be attractions suited for all ages.  My three year old was able to go on the Dig-A-Round and sit in his own seat.  He absolutely loved it.  From the looks of it he will be able to do a few others with parental help (love that Mom & Dad are included in the fun!).  They also have a great playground if your child just likes that sort of thing.


I think the most intriguing part is that most of the rides/attractions use real equipment!  JCB modified their equipment so that it is specifically designed for this theme park.  They also have an awesome arcade and a rock wall.  They offer birthday party packages too.  I think there is plenty to amuse all ages!  I can see this park being the highlight of many little boy's and girl's summers!   


Additional information: Diggerland USA is a construction themed adventure park where children and their families drive, ride, and operate heavy machinery in a safe family-friendly environment. Diggerland has 4 locations in the UK with a North American park opening publically in the summer of 2014. Diggerland is the most unique amusement experience in the world. Its US location is based in West Berlin, NJ. More information is available online by visiting www.DiggerlandUSA.com.  Be sure to visit them on Facebook for additional information! 

 
Thank you to Diggerland USA for inviting A Rup Life to this event.

Saturday, May 24, 2014

Saturday Recap ~ All The Happings In Our Life and Around Our Home!




Let's see this was another busy week.  I went to Enoch's homeschool conference and it was great! It was a great time to spend with two of my close friends (each went a different day with me) fellowshipping too!   Sunday was back to normal life with church.  Then Monday back to homeschooling.  We've gotten a little behind with that and I had to extend our school year by 2 weeks.  Our finish date is looking like the middle of June.

Onto blogging:

A couple of fun DVDS: 

Sophia Grace & Rosie's Royal Adventure Available May 20th

and

Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: Field of Screams Now on DVD!

 

 

Micro Business for Teens Course Review

- this is a course my teen is taking and has really soared with!

 

He is my Defence #abcblogging - I share my letter 'D' post for #abcblogging

May Ipsy #REVIEW Fresh Picks - see what items I received this month!

Homeschool Conference - My Thoughts On This Year's and Why You Need To Go Too! 

AsTheyGrowUp.com:

Toy Story OF TERROR Coming to DVD August 19th! 

 

Juice Beauty Exfoliating Cleanser #REVIEW

 

Chengdu Could Not, Would Not Fall Asleep #bookreview

 

Radiator Springs 500 1/2 Premieres on Disney Movies Anywhere! 

Keep Dry This Holiday Weekend with Dry Idea! #REVIEW 

Shore Thing ~ London Soho New York Hanging Organizer #REVIEW 

Kids Sunscreen from Aubrey! #REVIEW

Hullabaloo's latest CD : Shy Kid Blues #WIN

 

As you can see I was busy this week!! Hope you are having a wonderful holiday weekend!  I'm looking forward to a few BBQs and some time with my hubby who has a day off from work!! 

 

 

 

Friday, May 23, 2014

Homeschool Conference - My Thoughts On This Year's and Why You Need To Go Too!

This past weekend I attended Enoch's homeschool conference.  This is the second year of attending that particular one.  I love the size.  It isn't the biggest for sure.  There were plenty of vendors and great speakers! 


So let's start with what I didn't like.  Some of the vendors didn't know their product (a big math company in particular) - it was kind of shocking to see that cluelessness.  A few vendors really need more staff on Saturday because the attendance was so much bigger.  I did like the display size and seeing everything on hand.  It made a huge difference in some curriculum decisions I was making!

My favorite vendors this year:

Schoolhouse Publishing - The women running this company is phenomenal!  I know she would say she isn't an expert but she is!! She has used just about everything with her children.  Her staff (which I suspect is relatives) are all so pleasant! I honestly look forward to that vendor every year!  I wasn't going to buy much this year but I still left with a bag of books from them! 

Masterbooks - Well I am a Masterbook Mom!  I had so many of their titles but still managed to find something new I had to have!  (You'll be seeing that product soon - it has to do with Greek!) I had been drooling over their catalog for a few weeks now and I really liked seeing everything in person.  I think their new curriculum packages for the upper grades are so beautiful.  I especially love the details on crediting!  We will be adding some things to my oldest son's schedule next year.  Oh and by the way my order is already here!  Not even a week later!! Super fast shipping!!

I also enjoyed Alpha Omega Publishing, The Rainforest Cafe and Virginia Soap & Scents!

I attended several sessions.   Diane Kummer left me feeling like I can do high school!  I was actually excited after hearing her speak!  Sandy Schroll's talk on purpose for our kid's was awesome.  I attended two of Andrew Pudewa's sessions.  I love him I really do!  We've done IEW at home with the kids and I am a big fan.  My only disappointment was that I had already heard his first talk at another speaking even the year before.  Still it was a nice refresher and my friend hadn't heard it yet.

So all in all it was a hit!!!

  • Now onto why do I think you should go to a homeschool convention?
  • You get to see curriculum first hand.  Holding it and seeing if you like the product is so important.  There is only so far a online sample can take you.  Not only that but the vendors can help you with specifics.  I changed my mind about several things after just touching them this year!

  • Used book sales!!  You can save big money!! I bought a art curriculum for $10 that retails for $49.95!! I was super thrilled!!

  • Fellowshipping with other homeschoolers.  It is a great time to meet new people.  I met two ladies while shopping (you know who you are!!)  for science curriculum.  We had a fabulous talk!

  • Renewed spirit and purpose for homeschooling.  As summer comes around we are rushing to finish our course work and it is easy to become stressed.  Sometimes seeds of doubt spring up about our calling.  The sessions really bring you back to the love and reasons why you are homeschooling!


Are you attending a homeschool conference this year?  Leave me a comment telling me why you think it is important. 




Thursday, May 22, 2014

May Ipsy #REVIEW Fresh Picks

This post contains affiliate links
It is time to share another month of Ipsy.  I have to say that out of all the bags I received this is by far the worst.  Too many skin care and the one make up items wasn't that great either.  I didn't hate it but I didn't love it like last months.

The theme was FRESH PICK - I don't see anything in the bag that goes along with that except the bag.  I think the bag itself was beautiful.  It is a natural soft canvas with green leaves all over it.

The products:


  • pur-lisse pur-moist moisturizer - .5oz

  • Sans Tan mineral sunscreen - .5oz

  • Hey Honey exfoliating honey peel off mask - 10 ml

  • Eau Thermale Avene - Thermal spring water spray - 1.76 oz

  • Pacifica eye shadow duo  - in duo 1 - .07 oz


As you can see by the amounts they are all very small products.  I am excited about the thermal water.  I almost bought a Evian water spray but now there is no need to do that.  I may pass the eyeshadow along to a friend's daughter because the colors barely show up.  Not much pigmentation there.

So yeah this was basically a miss.  I'll try the little samples of skin care but overall  there really wasn't much substance to this bag.  I bet this appealed more to a natural beauty kinda girl though so I can see the reasoning behind it. 

Ipsy is a subscription service.  The bill on the 1st of every month and ship around the 15th.  You can join here.  

*Ipsy did not send me this subscription.  I pay for it monthly and share with you the products.  By signing up under my links you do earn me points which I can use for a upgraded product.  Thanks!

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

He is my Defence #abcblogging

I struggled this week trying to figure out exactly what I would share for the letter D.  My thoughts were on dressing... but I don't feel that is where God is leading me.  Instead in bible reading I stumbled upon defence.

I looked up the word and this was what I found:

Defence: resistance against danger, attack, or harm; protection 

How often do we really let God be out defence?  

In Psalms 62* - God repeats the word twice!

Here it is:

verses 1-2

Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation.
He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.


verses 5-6

My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.
He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.


What I take away from those verses is God is going to cement us sturdy as long as we rely on him!  He is to be our strength our defenses are through him.

Why is this so important?  Well the world is changing slowly.  It used to be that everyone was a professed Christian or at least held the same values here in America.  That is not the world we live in today though.  Today a few bad public 'so-called' Christians have given the rest of us a bad name.  We are supposed to be Christ-like which means ultimately we should be loving to all. (The bible is clear on the life we are supposed to be living!)  I feel the tides are shifting and persecution on the horizon.  I think our children will have to know better than us who they believe in and what they stand for.  Thankfully God is their defence!  He is their rock!  He is their salvation!  



This post is part of the #abcblogging series at benandme.com - click on the picture below to see what others are saying about the letter D!

Ben and Me

*All Scripture is taken from the King James Bible.  In the KJV the word defense is spelled defence. 

Monday, May 19, 2014

Micro Business for Teens Course Review

Micro Business for Teens Review
I am seriously excited to be bringing Micro Business for Teens for review to all of you!  This is a book course perfect for homeschoolers or any teen in general who is interested in starting a  small (or micro) business.

We received the following in E-book format:

Starting a Micro Business - $9.95 book and $4.95 e-book
Running a Micro Business - $9.95 book and $4.95 e-book
Micro Business for Teens Workbook- $14.95 book and $9.95 e-book




Age Range:
It is suggested for ages 10-18.  I think this is a very good guideline.  I would add to it that your 10 year old might want to revisit the course again either for reference or just reinforcement unless they are very business-minded.  I would also like to add that I think this set would be great for college aged kids and would even extend that recommendation to age 21! 

About:

Carol Topp authored this set of books to help kids learn the ins and outs of running their own business.  They will cover topics like: picking a business, financing a business and legal issues. 

There are 4 books in the series (the three I received are listed above) and the forth is Money and Taxes in a Micro Business.  You can choose from ebook or regular soft bound books.


How we used this book:

We received the ebook so I printed out all three books.  Then I used a big binder and just put binder separators in between the individual text so we could flip though easily.  Since the course is in the binder it was very durable.

Next I started by reading the beginning of Starting a Micro Business.  I wanted to read along with my son so I would know exactly what he was learning.  Once I read chapter one (took me very little time).  I planned out a schedule for him.

It looked like this:

Week 1-
Day 1 (Tuesday):  Read pages 7-12
Day 2:  Workbook pages: 7-12
Day 3: add additional thoughts to workbook page 12


Then I handed over the binder to my 13 year old.  This is where things took off.  I honestly didn't have to make another schedule after week 2!  He flew through the material, devouring it.  He has always been business minded and I knew this would be a hit with him.  This course came at a perfect time for him.  At 13 he has been searching for ways he could earn extra money.  He found several ideas in the book.

So for this review we were not required to start a micro business.  However, he has! I think this course was just the jump start he needed.  I'm guessing that it all just clicked in his brain once given some straight information.  He is funding his business entirely with his own money (because he learned in this course not to go into debt.)  He will handle all the customer relations as well.  I believe he will grow tremendous knowledge during this time by having his first business - which is exactly what we read in Starting a Micro Business - that he would learn as he was growing his business!



One of the things that he was supposed to do with the course was to give a little pitch about his business and see what people's reactions/advice would be.  Now my 13 year old is not super comfortable with doing this kind of thing but he BLOSSOMED!!  He first called his grandmother who owns her own small business.  She gave him so tips that included making sure there was a market for the service.  Next he went to church and told several members about his idea.  It was very well received with some of the men saying they would buy the product!  What was really special was later when the adults told me how impressed they were with how he pitched his idea and presented himself.

So what is his little business?  It is marshmallow shooter!  It is a fun little gun that he can make almost entirely alone and sell  at craft shows.  He has his first table planned for the end of May!

My closing thoughts:

I personally loved this course.  To see my kid grow and be working on a project to achieve his personal goals was pretty awesome.  The books were written at a easy level that kids can relate to and learn from.  This is not a super tough hard core business course but your child will walk away with the skills necessary to start their own business.  I really liked that it was clear on how to fund the business, what kind of businesses were practical for teens and how to price product accordingly.

We are in the testing stage of my 13 year old's business.  This means we are making prototypes and next weekend we will make the full assembly for the craft show.  I'm excited to see how this micro business takes off.  I'm thrilled that friends have helped him along the way with constructive criticism,  supplies and encouragement!  This course might have been short but it left a big impact on my teen.  I have a strong feeling we will be in business mode for years to come just from this one course!


 
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Crew Disclaimer

Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: Field of Screams Now on DVD!

A Rup Life received a sample for review.  This post contains affiliate links.

As my bigger kids become older they want a little more 'thrill' to their movie watching.  Scooby-Doo is just enough scare for their ages!  The newest DVD: Scooby-Doo!  13 Spooky Tales:  Field of Screams  features over 4 hours of fun!


About:


 
Scooby-Doo and the gang are together again in this high-scoring collection that’s comprised of fan-favorite sports-themed episodes which are offered together for the first time in one set.  The Mystery Inc. gang may be champions when it comes to solving mysteries, but how do they fare when playing sports? Competition is ghoulish and their opponents are monsters…literally! But that won’t deter our favorite animated crime-fighters from giving it all they’ve got on Scooby-Doo! 13 Spooky Tales: Field of Screams.

Featured in this release is an all-new, 22-minute cartoon titled “Scooby-Doo! Ghastly Goals!” Get set for hijinks and excitement in this captivating adventure that features Scooby, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne and Velma as they go on vacation and plan to take in a game of soccer. At the event however, everyone panics when a mythical beast appears and threatens to end the game! Scooby’s goal is to canine-kick his way to victory, but is he up to the challenge?

Scooby fans will suit up for an additional 12 entertaining mysteries featuring the beloved Great Dane and his tried-and-true teammates. Whether it’s baseball, football or tennis, spectators will watch the gang tackle demons, ghouls, monsters and more! It’s a winning collection that’s perfect for the whole family!

Featured Episodes:

  1. “Scooby-Doo! Ghastly Goals!”An all-new 22-minute cartoon
  2. “Night on Haunted Mountain”
  3. “The Demon of the Dugout”
  4. “The Ghost That Sacked the Quarterback”
  5. “The Warlock of Wimbledon”
  6. “The Beast is Awake in  Bottomless Lake”
  7. “Rocky Mountain Yiiiii!”
  8. “Maltese Mackerel/Yabba's Rustle Hustle/Basketball Bumblers”
  9. “Muscle Trouble/Alien Schmalien/Picnic Poopers”
  10. “The Creepy Case of Old Iron Face”
  11. “Scooby and the Minotaur/Scooby Pinch Hits”
  12. “The Fast and the Wormious”
  13. “Gentleman, Start Your Monsters”


You can purchase your copy of Scooby-Doo!  13 Spooky Tales:  Field of Screams at your local retailer or online at stores like Amazon

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Sophia Grace & Rosie's Royal Adventure Available May 20th

A Rup Life received a sample for this review.  Affiliate links are used in this post.

Have you heard of Sophia Grace & Rosie?  I must admit I hadn't until I received this DVD.  They are adorable British cousins that found their fame on YouTube and The Ellen Degeneres Show.  Well they are now starring in their first movie!!  Sophia Grace & Rosie's Royal Adventure will be available on May 20th!

About:

Sophia Grace and Rosie are sent to Switzelvania by The Ellen DeGeneres Show as special correspondents tasked with covering the coronation of a new queen.  Once their they encounter three very different princesses competing for the throne.  Together the girls hatch a plan to help the best candidate win!



You can purchase your copy at your local retailer or online at stores like amazon!

Saturday, May 17, 2014

Weekly Recap!



This was a crazy week!!  Crazy but awesome!!  On Monday my kids joined with a few fellow homeschoolers and went to a retirement home where we all served the Lord by doing crafts, talking and singing with the ladies there.  Tender Hearts Ministry was launched and we will be going back next month.  I can't wait.  I was especially touched when my 13 year old asked when we would be going back and commented that we should go more often. 

On Friday and Saturday (today)  I will be at Enoch's Homeschooling Conference!  I'm so excited to hear the speakers and get refreshed.  I'm sure a little shopping will be therapeutic as well as getting to spend a day with two of my best friends! 

We are busy cramming in these last few weeks of homeschooling.  Apologia's General Science is proving to take longer than the recommended weeks.  I'll blog more about that next month when I do a recap of the school year - hits and misses!

As for blogging - I had gotten a bit behind so this week I've been working my fingers to the bone trying to get everything up!  I'm so excited to share with you so many great products we were blessed to use.  Also there are a few great giveaways - I'd love to see you enter!!

A Rup Life:

C is for Church #abcblogging - Why church attendance is so important!

Blogger Opp! Join the Build Your Bundle Homeschool Edition Affiliate Program! - if you haven't joined this blogger opportunity, you might want to hurry.  These book bundles are a great hit!

Interactive Allergen Menu from Red Robin - YUM! #WIN - find out more about their allergen menu & enter to win a $25 gift card to red robin!


As They Grow Up:

Reviva Labs: Firming Eye Serum with Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin C Ester & DMAE #REVIEW- my new favorite eye serum!

 Adventure Time: The Suitor Volume 6

 

Reviva Labs Giveaway!! Enter to win three great products!! - a great giveaway!

CLEAN COMEDY CLEANS UP AT THE BOX OFFICE - Mom's Night Out is a big HIT!

Wordologies Handcrafted Mugs #Review

 

A BEE NAMED BEA And Other Poems #REVIEW


Thursday, May 15, 2014

Looney Tunes Spotlight 8 Collection Available on DVD!

A Rup Life received a sample for this post.  This post contains affiliate links.

My kids sure do enjoy looney tunes.  Daffy has to be their favorite character.  I'm a Bugs fan myself.  They were super excited to receive this new collection that has over 3 hours of fun!!

About:

The first disc in Looney Tunes Spotlight Collection Volume 8 is entirely devoted to everyone’s favorite carrot-crunching, wise-cracking “wabbit,” Bugs Bunny. Fifteen, hilarious theatrical cartoons are featured, including Bugs Bunny Rides Again, in which Yosemite Sam and Bugs Bunny meet in the Old West and challenge each other in horse racing, card games, gun drawing and much more.  Bugs Bunny enters the world of professional wresting in Bunny Hugged and becomes the adopted child of a gorilla mother in Gorilla My Dreams.  In Tortoise Beats Hare, Bugs Bunny challenges Cecil Turtle to a race and becomes the target of very hungry wolf in Little Red Riding Rabbit. These and several other rip-roaring shorts are featured on this disc.

In disc two, viewers will find an all-star cartoon party featuring favorite characters such as Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Sylvester, Tweety, Speedy Gonzales, Wile E. Coyote, Road Runner and many others.  Featured shorts include The Wise Quacking Duck, in which Daffy Duck goes head to head with a meek man who is ordered by his wife to hunt Daffy. In Pied Piper of Guadalupe, Sylvester imitates the Pied Piper of Hamelin to lure a group of mice. In Claws for Alarm, Porky Pig and Sylvester spend the night in an old hotel. In Whoa, Be-Gone!, Wile E. Coyote’s creative schemes to catch the Road Runner include the use of a giant elastic spring, a gun and trampoline, TNT sticks and much more.  These and several other rollicking shorts are featured on this disc.

“Our Spotlight Collections are comprised of Looney Tunes cartoons we know will appeal strongly to both kids and adults. We try to select the best variety of shorts, mixing popular favorites with some rarer gems, a combination which will appeal to a broad audience,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, Vice President Family & Animation Marketing and Partner Brands. She added, “The Spotlight Collection is an excellent way to introduce younger viewers to a great American classic, that’s been loved and revered by generations.”

Featured Shorts:
DISC 1
DISC 2
The Big Snooze
The Wise Quacking Duck
Bugs Bunny Rides Again
Claws for Alarm
Bunny Hugged
Whoa, Be-Gone!
French Rarebit
Cheese Chasers
Gorilla my Dreams
The Dover Boys
The Hare-Brained Hypnotist
A Bear for Punishment
Hare Conditioned
The Pied Piper of Guadalupe
The Heckling Hare
The Last Hungry Cat
Little Red Riding Rabbit
The Honey-Mousers
Tortoise Beats Hare
An Egg Scramble
Rabbit Transit
Cat-Tails for Two
Slick Hare
Bye, Bye Bluebeard
Homeless Hare
Booby Hatched
Hyde and Hare
Now that Summer is Gone
The Windblown Hare
Pigs in a Polka
These shorts were previously released on Looney Tunes Golden Collections Volumes 2 to Volume 5


 
You can purchase your copy of Looney Tunes Spotlight 8 Collection at your local retailer or online at stores like Amazon!