Hewitt Homeschooling: Lightning Literature & Composition 7th Grade Review

I personally think literature is a hard subject to teach.  First off it was hard to find a solid curriculum that my children would love.  I did some research - but I wasn't one hundred percent thrilled with what I found.  Either the stories were not interesting or the work was hard or over their grade level.  There was no happy medium.  Then I was picked to review Lightning Literature and Composition: Grade 7 by Hewitt Homeschooling.  This has changed everything!  It is a solid course that is teacher friendly and has great selections for reading.

What I received:

Lightning Literature and Composition: Grade 7 Student's Guide - $20
Lightning Literature and Composition: Grade 7 Student's Workbook - $20
Lightning Literature and Composition: Grade 7 Teacher's Guide  - $20

Lightning Literature and Composition Pack: Grade 7 - $92.63

The books needed to complete this course (which can be purchased separately or in the above complete pack).

• Adventures of Tom Sawyer - Mark Twain
• Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
• Helen Keller:  The Story of My Life -Helen Keller
• All Creatures Great and Small - James Herriot
• Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages - Harold Bloom

This curriculum is recommended for grades 7th or 8th - we used it for our 7th grader. 

How we used this curriculum:

It is summer time here and we are on a short course load.  This basically means that my middle son only had to work on a few math lessons and this course.  I chose to start in Semester 1 which covers 18 weeks of work. We started at the beginning with week 1.  Then continued on that lesson which is chapter 1 in the student's guide. 

The first story came out of Stories and Poems for Extremely Intelligent Children of All Ages.  It was "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi".  I didn't remember that story from when I was little so I decided to read it aloud to my son.  One morning before the brothers woke up he crawled into my bed and I read the short story to him.  Honestly it was a great story - and I'm so glad I took the time to read it to him.

Then over the next few weeks he completed the work book pages according the schedule.  Some of these were a challenge but with a little encouragement and help from Mom, Xan completed the pages.  After that chapter the next chapter (2)  would have been Tom Sawyer.  However, the next few weeks were just scheduled reading and no workbook pages so I talked to my son and asked him if he minded if we saved that chapter for the fall and skipped to the next chapter which would be week 12 in the schedule.  This way I could get a better feel for the course and he would have more work than just reading. 

So we skipped to week 12 which was all about poetry.  Again I chose to read aloud to him.  We had a hoot with the poems.  I really like the choices for this book!  They were fun to read and had great little stories in them.

We added the rhyme scheme to the poem to better grasp the concept.

We were able to cover haiku, couplets, limericks and rhyme scheme.  While he struggled a little it was nice to work with him each step of the way.  The way the workbook schedule is broken down the students have several days to work so it wasn't taxing on either of us.  This poem chapter was a great little course unto itself.  I believe he learned so much in these short weeks.


The work is broken down into these activities:

• Introductions - brief summary of the author
• Vocabulary List - especially helpful with outdated words
• Comprehension Questions - we did these orally
• Literary Lessons - this is where the student learns and masters the concepts
• Mini-Lessons - either a new concept introduced or extra practice
• Writing Exercises - students choose from several suggested writing activities

My Thoughts:

I loved the Teacher's Guide.  It felt like the author Elizabeth Kamath was right in the room with me giving encouraging words when needed.  For example the first lesson included learning about story openers.  My son didn't quite get which ones were better when doing the work independently.  Kamath gave the tip to go back over and talk about openers and have the child see which ones appeal to him.  This was a tremendous help.  I really do like when the teacher's book isn't just answers but offers insights and explanations.  That guidance really helps if you are not as versed in teaching literature - which is exactly what I needed. 

The student's books are broken up into two thinner books - the workbook and the Student's Guide.  I don't mind it being two separate books but I would have preferred a bigger book that was all in one.  I know my son tends to lose books (even in our house!) so in the back of my mind I'm thinking we will have to search one day for one of the books.  I also felt a bit of confusion going back and forth between the two.  Mind you I still think this course was awesome and it was not a deal breaker for me at all.

I feel like overall this was very on point for seventh grade.  There was harder course work  - like writing several haiku but I feel that is exactly the work a 7th grader should be able to do.  We are going to continue this course in September when we start back to school.  I'm excited to see the rest of the reading choices and how much my son enjoys them.   I have a feeling we will continue reading aloud with most of the smaller stories/poems.  For the longer books like Tom Sawyer I think I will read along with him so we can discuss the chapters together. 

Be sure to stop by Hewitt Homeschooling's Facebook page for additional information. 

 

Be sure to click on the banner below to see what other homeschoolers thought of this course.  We all reviewed different levels so if your looking for a different grade this is a great place to start!

July Ipsy!

 July's Ipsy theme was Sensationally Sunkissed.  I think that was not the best theme considering nothing in my bag was 'sunkissed' themed except maybe the hot pink bag.  I was pleased to see 5 products but I think only the Tint was fullsized which was disappointing. 

What was included:

• Hot pink bag
• Whet nailpolish in Facetious ( a deep electric blue)
• Tints & Sass - lip/cheek stain in cherry (smells cherryish too!)
• bareMinerals 5 in 1 BB advanced performance cream shadow in Divine Wine
• Pur~lisse sunscreen
• Big sexy hair - get layered hairspray

Well I'm glad I wrote this review up.  The Pur~lisse looks exactly like the moisturizer they sent a few months back.  However I'm so pleased to see it is actually a sunscreen.  I like the sample size of that for travel.  Nice!

The only thing I'm really disappointed in is the size of the bareMinerals cream shadow.  It is tiny.  Like really tiny! 

Overall I'm happy with the bag.  For $10 it was a nice mix of skin, hair and makeup.  Makeup being my favorite stuff to try.  Are you a Ipsy subscriber? 





Remember Ipsy is a subscription service that gives you a beauty bag once a month.  You don't get to pick your products but they do have you fill out a questionnaire to try to match you with products you will like.  The service is just $10 flat a month (shipping included).  A little tip - you will go on a waiting list if you sign up.  Be sure to share on the social media (facebook share is what I did) and you should get fast tracked to get the next mailing.  They always bill on the 1st of the month and ship around the 15th.

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!

Weekly Recap

It has been a busy week here on the blog and in my life.  We had company come in on Friday so we were preparing all week.  My oldest decided to spruce up our front yard and has done an amazing job digging out the roots in our flower beds.  Lowe's had tons of plants and flowers for 50-75% off so we bought some new bushes and flowers!  It is going to look really nice when he is done.

With my husband back to work we really can't a vacation.  I was a little sad about that but God sure has provided!  First my sibling all coming in to visit over 4th of July and being able to join them down the shore.  Then various parties and fun activities with family, church and friends.  Now this weekend my cousin coming in with her family - feels a lot like vacation!  Perhaps I should call this summer STAY-CATION?


Here is what happened on the blog:

Penny Wise by Neta & Dave Jackson #bookreview 

- Great for summer reading!

Build Your Bundle is LIVE!! Time To Shop for All Those Deals! - Have you seen the deals on this sale?  It ends Monday so don't miss out!

The Flood of Noah : Legends & Lore of Survival #REVIEW -

- This book is awesome!  

HomeschoolPiano Review  - This was a neat product to try and our oldest really enjoyed it! 

Lovely Lashes #REVIEW  - Do you curl your lashes?  

Flourish: Balance for Homeschool Moms - Book Review  - Great read for back to school Homeschooling moms!

M is for Modesty #abcblogging

 

When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren #bookreview

AsTheyGrowUp.com

Fall Fashion with Carter's! #CartersFallStyle #WIN    

- Don't miss out on the chance to see Carter's new fall line and a chance to win $50 gift card to Carter's! 

 

When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren #bookreview

A Rup Life received a promotional copy of this book for review. Post contains affiliate links.

I'm excited to bring a book for review that I thoroughly loved.  When I Fall in Love by Susan May Warren is the third book in the Christiansen Family series.  In this book we learn a lot Grace and a little about her brothers Owen and Casper.  (I have a feeling we will see their stories in the future.)


About the book: 

Hawaii was the last place Grace Christiansen ever imagined she'd vacation, much less fall in love. But when her family surprises her with a cooking retreat in paradise, she is pulled-or maybe yanked-away from her predictable, safe life and thrown headfirst into the adventure of a lifetime.

Max Sharpe may make his living on the ice as a pro hockey player, but he feels most at home in the kitchen. Which is why he lives for the three-week culinary vacation he takes each year in Hawaii. Upon being paired with Grace for a cooking competition, Max finds himself drawn to her passion, confidence, and perseverance. But just when Grace dares to dream of a future beyond her hometown, Max pulls away.

Wrestling with personal demons, Max fights against opening his heart to a love he knows he should never hope for. And as his secrets unfold, Grace is torn between the safe path in front of her and what her heart truly desires. If love means sacrificing her ideal happily ever after, Grace's faith will face its toughest test yet.

About the author: 

Susan May Warren is the bestselling, RITA Award-winning author of more than forty novels whose compelling plots and unforgettable characters have won acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. She served with her husband and four children as a missionary in Russia for eight years before she and her family returned home to the States. She now writes full-time as her husband runs a lodge on Lake Superior in northern Minnesota, where many of her books are set. She and her family enjoy hiking, canoeing, and being involved in their local church. Several of her critically acclaimed novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA's Inspirational Reader's Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. Five of her books have been Christy Award finalists. In addition to her writing, Susan loves to teach and speak at women's events about God's amazing grace in our lives. She also runs a writing community for authors.

Find Susan online: website, My Book Therapy, Twitter, Facebook

My Thoughts:

Oh how I want to be part of the Christiansen Family!  I love this book.  Grace our main character is simple delightful.  She starts out timid and scared and blossoms with faith and courage!  Max is dreamy.  His illness was a bold choice for a romantic novel.  I love that Warren didn't shy away from such a difficult topic.  The story draws you in and you will be cheering for this couple from the start - as well as a few other couples!

The family dynamics and faith of the Christiansen family is what makes this book special.  As each character finds God's voice in their life things work out.  The siblings love each other and the parents are their for their kids.  This book leaves you questioning your own strength when faced with difficult decisions.  Will you run away or stay?  I honestly can't wait for the next book .  My sweet husband surprised me the other two books ( Take a Chance on Me and It Had to be You) in this collection.

You can purchase your copy of When I Fall in Love at your local book retailers or online at stores like Amazon.  

M is for Modesty #abcblogging

When I signed on to blog through the alphabet with a bible spin the only letter I knew was M.  M for Modesty.  I think somehow in today's modern world modest is a bad word.  The M-word!  It is talked about at church but outside of church it is taboo. What kids wear today is anything but modest anymore - yet I hear parents say they wish kid's clothing was more age appropriate. 

What does the Bible say about this topic:

In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;  But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

~ 1 Timothy 2:9-10 - KJV

So what does that all mean?  I believe first off we should be covering a good bit of our bodies.  I wasn't always that modest (confession for real life people that know me!!)  and I'm not always 100% that modest in my home.  However out and about I try to keep a simple rule.  No cleavage, nothing above the knees and thick shell tanks if sleeveless.   

This is my personal standard.  I know not all feel this way - however I took time with that verse above and prayed about it and I feel like God gave me these personal convictions. I want my life to be pleasing to HIM. 

I don't judge others - you have to have your own set of convictions and standards.  You all need to do them for the right reasons!  Not because I told you too, not because your church says to, but because you took the time to pray about the situation and God has given you the answers.  

This me in my bathing suit.  I know your shocked but it is true.  It is comfy and covered.  The skirt has leggings underneath.  *link at end of post to store* 

My Sweet friend Misty from Everything In It's Time shared a picture of her Modern and Modest Sunday morning outfit. 

I love how she manages a pencil skirt that is both modest and fashionable!

I hope this post has been a blessing to you!  Remember you have to feel comfortable in what you wear - that is a big component in how I choose my clothing. 

  Please stop by BenandMe.com to see what the other #abcblogging posters are saying for the letter M.  (Click on the button below)

* My swim skirt is the freestyle version and sold at DressingforHisGlory.com. 

Flourish: Balance for Homeschool Moms - Book Review

I was recently sent a new book for review.  Flourish: Balance for Homeschool Moms by Mary Jo Tate.  This book is published by Apologia Educational Ministries one of my favorite companies! 





This book is written by a homeschooling, single, work from home Mom (with her own businesses) who shares her tips and experiences on how she Flourishes with balancing it all.

This soft-bound book is 288 pages and retails for $15.00.

There are 16 chapters:

1. An Invitation to Flourish
2. Change Your Mind to Change Your Time
3. The FREEDOM Toolbox
4. Where Did My Time Go?
5. Aim High: Setting Goals
6. What Do I Do Next?:  Seven Essential Planning Tools
7. We Interrupt This Program
8. It's Time for an Attitude Adjustment
9. Oxygen Masks and Monkey Bread Days
10. Training Your Children
11. Making Memories
12. Managing Your Home
13. All of Life Is Learning
14. Solo Act:  Flourishing as a Single Mom
15. Home Business
16. Moving Ahead

It also includes two appendixes with resources and planning tools.

This book is for Moms - mostly homeschooling but I could see other Momma's finding a lot of wisdom from it - especially work from home Moms.  

I read through this book slowly, taking time to digest and reflect on all that Tate had to say.  This book isn't a simple read I would say it is more complex than that.  There is a call to action at the end of each chapter where the author challenges you to make changes and think bigger!  It would make a great group study!

The book opens with a personal story from Ms. Tate introducing herself and her four boys.  From there we branched out.  At the end of the first chapter you take a Pre-Book Evaluation - which is included in the back of the book.  Taking the time to reflect and answer these questions honestly will help as you read this book.

One of the things really I loved about this book were all the little quotes on the sides.  Quotes from people like Eleanor Roosevelt and Sally and Clay Clarkson.  These little gems are a read unto themselves!

Another thing that was special is that Mary Jo makes a point to have family time with each kid.  She sets aside special times for making memories and special moments.  This is my heart's desire so I was pleased that she made it such a big point in the book.  Having special memories for your children to me is one of the most important things.

• I have very little memories - myself- from growing up.  One thing I do remember was how my Mom made my Christmas stocking very special!  There was always a special bigger treat (usually jewelry) for me. I was allowed to open it on Christmas morning before anyone else was awake.

• My best friend always decorated her Christmas tree on Christmas Eve.  It was a big tradition for their house. Something they still do with her parents.

• My husband said when he was growing up on Christmas eve he was allowed to open one gift.  

• For our children we let them pick one ornament each year that reflects their current interests- it is a very big deal to have the 'perfect ornament'.  We also do one family ornament.  It has been fun to see how the ornament has grown with each additional child.

I know I shared Christmas traditions but there could be others.  Maybe on Saturdays you always go yardsaling in the spring (we do!).  Or maybe Sunday mornings are pancake days.  I just like that they kid's will have a special memory.

Things I took away from this book:

• Get rid of clutter - which we always struggle with but I've really made progress this summer!
• Delegate - kids are great at helping with chores.  Many hands make short work.  (You can hire if you need to but that is not in our budget.)
• Make the most of your time - I struggle with this- by getting up early or going to sleep late
• Be realistic and only accept responsibilities you can undertake with your full attention - something as a blogger I need to be mindful of.

A lot of this book focuses on how Mary Jo Tate managed her home business, homeschooling and her household.  While I don't have an actual home business I was able to apply a lot of her principles to blogging.  I know I need to be more purposeful with the time I spend online.  I plan on really trying to be stricter about what I can do in the fall with accomplishing homeschooling all three children.

The homeschooling chapter included important basics like homeschooling styles as well as sample assignment sheets.  She filled that chapter with tips and ideas that really would help a beginner homeschooling Momma or a seasoned homeschooling Mom. 

Overall I enjoyed the book and will most likely re-read before we start school in the fall.  I am a rather laid back person and I enjoy that about myself however I can see how having a bit more structure would benefit all of us.   Everything she writes about doesn't always apply to my life but there was a lot of it I could modify to work with my individual situation.

Lovely Lashes #REVIEW

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

I recently had the opportunity to try out Lovely Lashes by Izy Trend.  This is a metal eyelash curler.  The product comes with a extra replacement pad.  This curler was easy to use.  It has a nice rounded top that fit nice on my small eyelashes and allowed me to create a nice curl.  I really liked the results I was able to achieve.  Did you know the key to keeping your lashes curled is applying mascara directly after curling.  With that two step plan my lashes looked lovely! 

About:

Lovely Lashes Benefits and Features
✓ All Purpose Curling -
Curls Short Lashes, Medium Lashes and Long Lashes. No matter the type or length of your lashes; the shape or size of your eyes, Lovely Lashes takes care of you.
✓ Creates Great Curls That Lasts All Day Long -The special design of this curler makes it possible to activate high quality wavy curls that spruce up ordinary lashes
✓ No Pinch, No Tugs, Just Perfect Lashes -One drawback for eyelash curlers is the tugging and pinching. Lovely Lashes is designed to ensure the curler does not clip and pull your lashes
✓ Gentle and Soft Pad Design With Rubber Grip Handle -This handle ensures ease of use. Your hand is now free to concentrate on getting your lashes curled
Get FULL, BEAUTIFUL eyelashes today... grab your Lovely Lashes Eye Lash Curler 100% Risk-Free!
✓ 100% Lifetime Guarantee! -We are so confident of our curlers that we guarantee they'll never give you trouble. If for any reason, they do, you are backed by our 100% no questions asked guarantee.

You can purchase your Lovely Lashes Eyelash Curler at Amazon.   

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

HomeschoolPiano Review

Music is a very important part of our homeschool.  When I met my husband I expressed the interest in having a piano in our home and learning to play.  About seven years into our marriage my sweet husband surprised me with a full sized keyboard for Christmas.  I started formal lessons after that and about five months later we purchased a beautiful new upright piano.


For this review I received a lifetime subscription for up to 5 students to HomeSchoolPiano - Complete Set of Books.


What is HomeSchoolPiano:

HomeschoolPiano is taught entirely online.  The instructor Willie M walks you through each lesson.  There are four levels:

• CorePiano - where to begin - 33 lessons
• Book 1 - 42 lessons
• Book 2 - 42 lessons
• Book 3 - 42 lessons

Each unit in Book 1-3 is broken up into 7 categories:

• Technique
• Rhythm
• Ear Training
• Reading Music
• Song
• Improvisation
• Bonus

There are printable books to go along with the lessons.

Each lesson looks like the above picture.  You see the instructor in the bottom left.  In the middle is the keyboard he is working on and you can see his hands as he plays.  On the top is a reference keyboard with lighted keys.

I really like how this visual is.  Not only do you hear your instructor speaking you also see all that he is doing.

HomeschoolPiano has two pricing options:

The Success Package is $299 and includes life-time access to the HomeSchoolPiano with all bonuses (downloads, jam tracks and sheet music.)  Good for up to 5 students.  

The second option is a Payment Plan where you pay $99.97 per month for 3 months.  Everything in the Success Package is included in this package the only difference is the option to make payments. 


 This program is designed for all ages (child to adult.)

You will need a few things to successfully implement this course.  A full sized keyboard  with at least 41 keys or a piano.  You will also need a computer or tablet that can play the videos.  A printer to print the books will be helpful as well.


How we used this program:

Both of my bigger boys (13, 12) have taken formal lessons for a few years.  I too have taken lessons but that was many years ago. All of us play at advanced beginner-Intermediate level.

 The best way for us to do the lessons was for the big boys to sit down together to watch the videos.  This way I didn't have kids taking up the computer all day to get in their lessons.  When it came to a quiz we just let whoever was logged on take the quiz then they logged out and the other kid took theirs.  We watched at our stationary PC and then moved to the piano for practice.  I think in the future we will set my son's tablet up at the computer and see how that works.  With both kids watching I thought that would be a problem for them to each sit at the piano bench (fighting or fidgeting on the bench)  so they just pulled chairs up to my computer.


We often did more than one video because a lot of this was review for us.  The kids were happy to sit for about 30 minutes so it was a few lessons each time.  I have a feeling as we progress one lesson will be all they will handle when it comes to having to practice more.

I mentioned before that we've taken formal lessons in the past.  We have been on a break this summer and will most likely resume in the fall again.  (Our piano teacher is like family and we miss her!)  The main reason we wanted to be part of this review because HomeSchoolPiano has a heavy emphasis on learning improvisation.  Both my kids have what I call a natural ear and like to make up songs at the piano.  They try to figure out songs they have heard as well.  I knew this would be a fun course for them and it was.

As for practice.  My kids always practice any where from 10-20 minutes a day so that stayed the same.  After a lesson they would practice from the printables - taking turns - sometimes with all of us working together cheering each other on!  That part really wasn't a big deal - in fact - it is hard for me to get them to NOT play!  They would play all day and night if I let them!  I can only listen to the theme song to Star Wars so many times a day before I reach my limit though!

My Closing Thoughts:

I liked this program.  I found Willie to be informative and encouraging.  I like the format and how you could see everything on screen.  I think it is a great substitution for lessons with a music teacher.  You won't get the feed back you would with a person to person teacher but Willie gives so many encouraging words that I still feel like he manages to make it feel personal.  

I think something I could have done differently was have a set lesson time and set practice time.  It is summer and we are more laid back with school since I consider all we do right now enrichment and not full-on school time. 

We took our lessons slow and are in Book 1 still.  I wanted to start at the beginning to see how Willie taught.  I think this worked well because we only skipped a bit in CorePiano.  The kids had a lot of refreshers which was perfect because we had some time off from when we last took lessons.  They both enjoyed their lessons and will continue to move forward this summer. 

The Flood of Noah : Legends & Lore of Survival #REVIEW

Thank you to Masterbooks/New Leaf Publishing Group for providing a copy for review.  This post may contain affiliate links. 

I was so excited when I received The Flood of Noah :  Legends & Lore of Survival - edited & compiled by Bodie Hodge & Laura Welch (illustrations by Bill Looney).  This is a very unique book.  There is so much interaction which just makes it fun!  There are mini-books, pull outs, flaps - along with beautiful illustrations.  It really is a feast for the eyes!

The book is all about Noah's Ark.  As a Christian you might think you know all there is to know but I challenge you to read this book to see if that is true!  Did you know there are over 200 flood legends from cultures all around the world?  This book explores many of them and gives you the big picture of how there is so much evidence of the flood just based on all mankind's passing along of legends.  Pretty amazing, right?

About:

The Biblical catastrophic judgment on mankind echoed in the flood legends that survive to this day!
Cultural accounts of a wicked world, destroyed by a global flood, have been relegated to myth — even the history of Noah's ark revealed in the Bible. Yet, in every corner of the world, you find these legends of a vastly destructive, worldwide flood event. Similarities include: mankind is almost wiped out, some animals are chose for survival, a craft or other escape mechanism is provided for survival, and water covers everything.

• What are these legends, and what intriguing clues do they contain?
• What do they reveal about their possible common origin?
• Exciting details presented with an interactive experience of flaps, mini-books, foldouts, and more!

For over a hundred years, scientists have been dismissing the Bible as a reliable source of information — despite the civilizations discovered and history revealed that support the history God's Word contains.

You can join the Masterbooks Mom Team on July 22 at 7pm (est) for our Facebook party!  There will be tons of information on the book and giveaways!  It is always a fun time! 

Be sure to visit NLPG.com for additional book information and to purchase your copy!

Penny Wise by Neta & Dave Jackson #bookreview

A Rup Life received a copy of this book for review purposes.  All opinions are my own.  This post contains affiliate links. 

Penny Wise is the latest book in the Windy City Neighbors series by Neta & Dave Jackson.  I was privileged to be part of the blog tour / review team for this book.

Book Teaser:

Penny Wise introduces us to yet another family in "the neighborhood"---the Jaspers, busy with demanding jobs, busy with church, busy volunteering, parents of three active teenagers, juggling sometimes crazy schedules. All good things. Until all those "good things" feed into a series of crises that affects the whole family. Something's gotta change!

The third in the Windy City Neighbors series, Penny Wise is a contemporary peek at an urban family wrestling with the spiritual and practical challenges of real life. The series employs the innovating storytelling technique of "parallel novels," each with its own drama and story arc, but whose characters' lives become intertwined with their neighbors and affect one another. Welcome to Beecham Street---a typical, isolated American neighborhood that is beginning to come out of its shell . . . for better or worse.


About the authors: Dave and Neta Jackson are award-winning authors living in the Chicago area where their parallel novels from the Yada Yada House of Hope and Harry Bentley series are set. As a husband/wife writing team, Dave and Neta Jackson are enthusiastic about books, kids, walking with God, gospel music, and each other! Together they are the authors or coauthors of over 100 books.

Find Neta and Dave online: website

My Thoughts:

I was committed to read  this book for the blog tour.  About twenty pages in I wasn't so sure I was a fan.  It was moving slow for me because the Jackson's give a lot of detail.  They really put a lot of work into building a solid story.  If I'm being honest I haven't read many books like that in a long time and I had become a lazy reader!  I wanted the plot just thrown at me!  Not the case with this book and I'm so happy I stuck past the beginning!

The story is told from the mother Michelle Jasper's point of view.  She is a busy working mom of three kids, who is active in her church and additional volunteer work.  She is passionate and realizes that she is just too busy to have much quality in any area of her life.  Her husband - Jared- is equally busy with his full-time job that has crazy hours and ministry work.  Most of the plot resolves around them trying to work out a better schedule.  It was something every parent can relate too.  

Through out the story Michelle is looking to God for answers in what to change in her life to give it quality.  Through some extreme events (which brought me to tears!) Michelle and her husband come to realize what they truly want in life and what they have to give up.  She asks God for a small miracle - a penny- and He uses that to really change her whole life around!

This story is very relevant to today's times.  We are all struggling with our daily commitments.  I know myself I want to be more active serving in our local church but I have to keep the balance between blogging/homeschooling (my work), keeping the home (my struggle) and quality time with my family (my heart).  It gave a nice reminder on what we need to focus on all while being a great story!  I'm so happy I stuck it out because by the tenth chapter I wanted to know how the book would end. 

You can purchase your copy of Penny Wise at your local book retailer and online book retailers like Amazon. 

Be sure to visit Penny Wise's landing page  to see additional reviews and information about this book. 

Weekly Recap

Slow down summer!!  Boy is it flying by!  We have family coming to visit again next weekend and I couldn't be more excited.  Looking forward to see all my family and just relaxing a bit.  I've been up and down with blogging - slow and steady - maybe that is the right way to describe it.  I have loads to do but taking my time getting to it! Well  it is SUMMER!!

Here is what I blogged about here this week:

Living Like Him #abcblogging 

- This week's letter was 'L' - I can't believe how far we are already.  

Don't Miss The Build Your Bundle Homeschool Edition Giveaway!! 

- This sale is coming fast so don't miss the awesome giveaway!

Whiplash Eyelash Curler by Crave Naturals #REVIEW

- do you need a new eyelash curler?  Check out my review of Whiplash!

 

AsTheyGrowUp.com

I was excited to be part of a webinar from Carters learning about their fall fashions.  I have a post coming up featuring several things from their new line.  Can you tell I was excited?

Dino Dan: Tyrannosaurus Trek ~ All New on DVD! #WIN

 

Pre-order Pee-wee’s Playhouse: The Complete Series Blu-ray™ 

 

 

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Whiplash Eyelash Curler by Crave Naturals #REVIEW

ARupLife.com received product to facilitate this review. Post may contain affiliate links. 

I've mentioned to you all before that I wear a full face of make-up just about every day.  It is rare to see me with minimal or no make-up.  Even when I wear minimal I still curl my lashes!

My lashes are medium to long in length and stick straight out.  If I don't curl them then even with mascara you don't see them.  So I use a curler and then apply two good coats of mascara.  This makes beautiful long lashes for me.

I received Whiplash Eyelash Curler by Crave Naturals for review.

This eyelash curler is unique because it has a little hook on the bottom to keep it closed when not in use.  I like that feature - it is pretty handy!  It also has a hot pink eye pad and handle.  I love hot pink!

I really like the size of the part that actually curls your lashes.  Often times I can't get the curler close enough to my eyelid to do what it is supposed to do.  This one fit my eye size (perhaps smallish?) very well. 

Overall it worked well and was a nice addition to my make-up routine.  I also want to give a shout out to the adorable packaging.  Love that comic book theme!

You can purchase your Whiplash Eyelash Curler either directly from them or online at Amazon. 

Living Like Him #abcblogging

"Image courtesy of Apolonia / FreeDigitalPhotos.net"

We are called to live Christ-like.  There are many ways we can do that but I want to talk today about one way that speaks to my Italian heart!  FOOD!  Recently I had a conversation with a good friend about making meals for another church member who just had back surgery.  She said over the years she had some serious surgeries herself and never had a meal made for her. 

This really struck me as sad.  Through the years I've had babies, miscarriages and surgeries.  Every time someone from church made us meals.  Sometimes we received two weeks worth!  When I was on bedrest with my second son we received meals through out the 3 months.  I can't even begin to tell you what a huge blessing that was!  Knowing that my family was going to eat and eat well while I couldn't make them food was such a relief.

Maybe the food thing just is my thing.  There are plenty of ways to help when someone has a medical issue.  You can offer rides to the children, clean their house or even some money.  Food just seems like a natural thing.

I think it might be because Jesus had a heart to feed people.  When they would come to hear him they were fed.  He knew that a full belly and a full spirit were essential.

In John 21: 15-16 the Bible says:

So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.


See not only did they dine but Jesus also tells Peter to feed his sheep.  I know he was talking about spiritually but I think  you could take that literally too.  I mean that helping out with a meal helps with the spiritual part.  It shows Christ's love, it shows compassion and caring from church members.

So when should you make a meal?  Here are a few suggestions:

• Surgeries
• Bed Rest
• Births
• Deaths
• Financial hard times
• Just because

I can tell you this - I've qualified for all of the above!  I'm so thankful to the generosity of family, friends and church members that brought us food during those trying times.  I have even had a friend that has brought meals just because over the years!  What a sweet friend she is!  

You might be saying to yourself the following things:

• 
  
• I don't know what I would make
• I don't have a best dish
• I don't have extra money to make a meal

To these statements I say this- If you have a best dish...the one people ask you to make. Make that one!  If not you can make some thing easy.  It is really the thought.  I've made spaghetti and meatballs,  meatloaf, baked chicken.  Nothing fancy for sure.  I've also brought a rotisserie chicken and a pizza.  

As for the money aspect- it really don't cost that much to add a few extra servings.  Most people throw away the remainders of their meals anyways.  You can make one of your stretcher meals with rice or fresh bread.  A little really does go along way.  If it really is a financial hardship for you consider praying about the opportunity.  If you have a desire to do something sweet for some one God often will provide the means.


This post is part of blogging through the alphabet with Benandme.com.  Click on the picture below to see what others are saying for the letter L.

Weekly Recap (2 weeks!)

I was away with my family last weekend and just didn't get the weekly recap up in time.  I'm giving myself a break with it and just combining the last two weeks!  For those of you wondering - I had a fabulous time with my family in Wildwood, NJ.  If you've never been - it is a great vacation shore town.  The boardwalks have rides, games and wonderful food.  Beaches are nice too.

Onto blogging!

Have you seen the build your bundle sale floating around the blogs and facebook?  This sale will be so unique because you can really customize for your own needs.  They will have products broken up in age ranges, homeschooling styles and just for moms.  There is a big giveaway going on for the pre-sale promotion and one lucky person will win $100 towards their bundle!  Click on the graphic below to enter:

Now onto the recap:

J is for JESUS! #abcblogging

June Ipsy

Kicking Out Negativity! #abcblogging

This is America, Charlie Brown on DVD!  

 Family, Community, and a Free Episode of Adventures in Odyssey

Build Your Bundle Homeschool Edition!! July 21-28, 2014!!

Astheygrowup.com:

 

SlipX Solutions Bathtub Mats #REVIEW

 

Octonauts: Calling All Sharks! 

Dancing Diggers at Diggerland this weekend! Plus code for $10 off!!

Introducing HALO™ Bassinest™ Swivel Sleeper! #WIN

 

 

 

 

 

Family, Community, and a Free Episode of Adventures in Odyssey

Have you had a chance to check out the Adventures in Odyssey Club?  If not now is the time!!

 

 For a limited time, you can listen to a new episode of Adventures in Odyssey for FREE! Album 58, The Ties that Bind, will be available this fall for digital download and CD purchase, but if you join the Odyssey Adventures Club, you can listen to the full album now! Guess what? The $5 special held last month was extended through the end of July, too, so you can join in the fun for only $5! Here's what part one is about (which you can listen to for free HERE):

It’s a time of surprises as Wooton becomes the celebrity guest at Comic-Connellsville and Whit finds himself in conflict over the upcoming “Let’s Get Together Festival” in Odyssey. Plus, hear an interview with writer-director Paul McCusker about the entire 14-part series.

Album 58 was inspired by Focus on the Family’s The Family Project, a 12-session small group experience that explores the theological, philosophical, and cultural underpinnings of the traditional family, and combines that information with inspiring stories and practical tools to help 21st-century families thrive. One way families can carry out God's design for families is by serving their community—right where God has planted them, being His hands and feet together. Want to serve your community with your family, maybe make a day of out it? Here are some fantastic ideas from some Adventures in Odyssey bloggers and club members:

• Make scarves through the year and deliver them to your local homeless shelter at the start of winter, or regularly donate food to your local food bank. —Shirley 
• Our family likes to help with Meals on Wheels. We also do reenactments of the Civil War and WWII to help educate people on history. I like to show my kids that we should be servers and givers by taking meals to people who need them (i.e. baby just born, someone died, someone had surgery, etc.). —Erin 
• We have been visiting a nursing home with friends once a month. The kids just sing and then we fellowship, but the ladies love it! —Lisa 
• We make lap blankets for nursing home residents and take the time to visit with them. We also collect food for the local food pantry. —Donna 
• We make blessing bags to give to the homeless when we encounter them. We also donate clothes and food to a local shelter. —Amy 
• Our MOPs (Mothers of Prechoolers) group supports our local Pregnancy Support Services with donations, gifts, and notes. We also supports the Durham Rescue Mission, which helps people break free from addictions and restore families. —Melissa 
• We live in a very rural area. Our church serves two of the poorest zip codes in the state, and about a decade ago, they started operating a food pantry out of a closet. It has expanded since then, so we now use the closet for storage, but the pantry is basically a classroom. The kids and I serve over there a lot. My 17-year-old and I go to Care & Share (50 miles away) to get food to bring back to the pantry. All of us help unload and stock shelves. On pantry days, everyone can get involved with helping people go through the line, playing with the kids, carrying boxes out to cars, etc. There are so many hungry folks, especially in the summer when school breakfasts and lunches aren't available, and helping a bit to put food on some tables is such a blessing for us all. —Debra 
• We pack food bags each month for the homeless and needy through a thrift store that offers an outreach to the community. We also help clean our church and our Sunday school. —Michele 
• We work through our AHG troop to do several service activities a year. My girls just recently made bracelets they are selling, which 100% of the profits goes to Hope House in Africa to help young girls. —Sarah 
• Our church works with a homeless shelter in downtown Atlanta. We cook food ahead of time, and when our schedules allow we ride down with the group to serve the food. My son always reminds me when we haven't been for awhile, so it's something he looks forward to. —Maria 
• We do lots of random acts of kindnesses within our community: pay for others' meals, leave change at a vending machine, hand out Gatorade/granola bars to people on the side of the road asking for food. We also love to support Mobile Loaves and Fishes. —Kathryn

Did that provide some ideas to give your family service activity the kick-start it needs? What other ideas do you have for serving your community? Share in the comments!


 

This is America, Charlie Brown on DVD!

A Rup Life received a copy of this dvd for review. All opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links.

Who doesn't love Charlie Brown?  With Fourth of July just past -  This is America, Charlie Brown on DVD - is a perfect treat to continue the celebration of our country!  This DVD is the perfect balance of fact and fun. 

About:
  
Snoopy and the Peanuts gang inspire viewers to celebrate the upcoming Independence Day holiday with the release of This is America, Charlie Brown, available June 17, 2014 from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE). This entertaining collection is comprised of eight delightful animated Peanuts television specials that have been re-mastered for superior picture and sound quality. Each of the animated specials centers on various important events in the course of American history, as seen through the eyes of the Peanuts gang.  This is America, Charlie Brown will retail for $26.99 SRP.

From the voyage of the Mayflower to the bold exploration of outer space, join the Peanuts gang as they take viewers on a journey through American history! Groove along with Charlie Brown and Snoopy as they discover the beginnings of jazz and ragtime music, cleverly accompanied by Lucy’s speech about American heroes. Soar with the Wright brothers, blast into orbit on the NASA space station, and create some of the world’s most influential inventions alongside such greats as Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford! So all aboard the transcontinental railroad with Peanuts because This is America, Charlie Brown!

Featured Specials:

* The Mayflower Voyagers – The Peanuts become pilgrims sailing to the New World aboard the Mayflower and endure the first hard winter on Plymouth Plantation.

* The Birth of the Constitution – Snoopy, Charlie Brown and the rest of the gang is present when the country’s founding fathers discuss putting together the constitution.

* The Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk – Linus and Charlie Brown witness the Wright brothers’ first flight.

* The NASA Space Station – Linus dreams that he and the rest of the Peanuts gang travel into space.

* The Building of the Transcontinental Railroad – Charlie Brown discusses how the Union Pacific and Central Pacific railroads link to create the transcontinental railroad.

* The Great Inventors – Each member of the Peanuts gang reports on various American inventions. Linus discusses Alexander Graham Bell while Peppermint Patty and Marcie talk about Thomas Edison, and Charlie Brown writes a report on the invention of the automobile.

* The Smithsonian and the Presidency – Viewers experience meeting U.S. presidents as seen through the eyes of the Peanuts gang. Charlie Brown visits with Abraham Lincoln. The gang also meets Theodore Roosevelt and Franklin D. Roosevelt.

* The Music and Heroes of America – Snoopy wants to participate in Schroeder’s report on music in America. Everyone in the gang plays a different musical instrument while we hear such classics as “Alexander’s Ragtime Band” and “Yankee Doodle.” This special plays homage to such celebrated composers as John Phillip Sousa, Irving Berlin, George Cohan, Scott Joplin and others. Also featured is Lucy’s  report on the heroes of America, which include Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, Helen Keller, Martin Luther King Jr. Jonas Salk and others.

This is America, Charlie Brown originally aired as an eight-part mini-series on CBS in 1988.

“This is America, Charlie Brown is both fun and informative. Charles Schulz’ lovable characters experience key moments that took place in our nation’s history. It offers a delightful combination of entertainment mixed with history,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, Vice President Family & Animation Marketing. She added, “With the Fourth of July holiday soon approaching, this DVD collection serves as a wonderful source of inspiration and knowledge for both kids and adults. This newly re-mastered edition is a definite must-own title for all Peanuts fans.”

Enjoy these coloring pages!  

(The best way to print them is to right click, then click on view image - print from there)

You can purchase your copy This is America, Charlie Brown  of at your local retailer or online at stores like Amazon!