Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own.
Now raising their four-year-old daughter, Indiana, alone, after Joey’s passing, Rory Feek digs deeper into the soil of his life and the unusual choices he and his wife, Joey, made together and the ones he’s making now to lead his family into the future.
When Rory Feek and his older daughters moved into a run-down farmhouse almost twenty years ago, he had no idea of the almost fairy-tale love story that was going to unfold on that small piece of Tennessee land . . . and the lessons he and his family would learn along the way. Now two years after Joey’s passing, as Rory takes their four-year-old daughter Indiana’s hand and walks forward into an unknown future, he takes readers on his incredible journey from heartbreak to hope and, ultimately, the kind of healing that comes only through faith. A raw and vulnerable look deeper into Rory’s heart, Once Upon a Farm is filled with powerful stories of love, life, and hope and the insights that one extraordinary, ordinary man in bib overalls has gleamed along the way. As opposed to homesteading, this is instead a book on lifesteading as Rory learns to cultivate faith, love, and fatherhood on a small farm while doing everything, at times, but farming. With frequent stories of his and Joey’s years together, and how those guide his life today, Rory unpacks just what it means to be open to new experiences. “This isn’t a how-to book; it’s more of a how we, or more accurately, how He, God, planted us on a few acres of land and grew something bigger than Joey or I could have ever imagined.”
My family and I have followed Rory (and Joey and Indy) for years now. We watched them celebrate, live, and mourn. We watched Indy struggle, succeed, and learn. We watched this beautiful family's life and celebrated our own. We learn so much from them, including that God has a purpose, even if we cannot see it. Snapper has sat in front of the computer and done sign language with Indy and talked with her (well, from our end). Even she has fallen in love with the family.
We have watched them on youtube, Facebook, and read the blog. The first book, This Life I Live, is on our bookcase. We may have never met them, but feel like we have known them forever. This book had to be in our house.
Reading it and learning about what life has been like since Joey died has been shocking, heartfelt, heartbreaking, and joyous. I have fallen even more in love with this family!
Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own.
Our most-loved Children’s Outreach Bible includes full-color study helps with the trusted New King James translation to make Bible reading fun and accessible for kids!
This affordable Children’s Outreach Bible in the trustworthy New King James Version is a great value for anyone who wants to give children God’s Word. The fun and colorful cover is designed for boys and girls alike, and the interior features the full Old and New Testaments of the New King James Version, the translation loved and trusted by millions! Also featured are 24 pages of kid-friendly full-color study help pages to help young children learn and grow in their faith journey. Pages include: Why Should I Read the Bible? Bible Verses to Know Knowing Jesus Better How Do I Pray? How Can I Let God’s Love Shine Through Me? How Do I Study the Bible? The Names of God and many more! A special presentation page is perfect for personalizing! Whether you’re giving a child his or her first Bible or rewarding a Sunday school class for a job well done, this economy Bible with great features is the perfect way to meet the needs of those around you!
My mom always kept a few extra Bibles on our bookshelf and a few in the car. These were always "gift and award bibles" still in the wrappers. If she heard of someone who didn't have a bible, came across someone in a tough situation, or just felt the need to hand one out, she had them available. Next time she was in town, she'd pick up a replacement. I've tried to keep children's bibles on hand for this reason. I've given several away as gifts and several just to kids who didn't have one. However, the cost of children's bibles can quickly add up, as the different features cost more. This outreach bible is perfect for that.
I love all the different sections that are in this bible, as it is important for kids to have those extra tidbits because they are still learning what their faith means. Having this bible available ensures that I can continue to keep bibles on hand for that next child I come across that needs one.
This isn't a bible I would give to a special child in my life as a gift- I like those to be hard covered with very special features. However, to have them to give out, they are perfect!
Corry introduced me to Color Street Nail Polish Strips. Corry is awesome- I've known her for about 10 or 11 years. I met her because she is a teacher and she and her little boys (well, they were little. The oldest just graduated) would come into the bookstore I managed. Corry and I hit it off immediately, as we just have the same style. I would even call her when we would get bags and jewelry in the store that I thought she would like (part good salesperson, part good friend). I would even text her when we brewed her favorite coffee, Snickerdoodle. Of course, I would brew that a lot because it was my favorite too! When she mentioned that she loved Color Street so much she started selling it, I had to know more.
Now, I'm in love!
The envelope contains everything you need- polish strips, prep pad, and file. The directions are very simple, too. I was absolutely amazed at how easy they were to put on and how great they looked!
Seriously, clean your nails, select the write strips for each nail, take the plastic cover off, take the backing off, and put on your nails. Make sure they are pressed on good and use the file to shape the sticker to your nail.
I was actually able to cut mine in half to get double the use out of them. These nail polish strips (which are made with real nail polish) are shaped the same on both ends, so this is possible.
This is all in less time than it takes for a manicure at the salon!
Finished Look
1 Week Later:
I'm actually really rough on my nails, which is why I never paint them unless it is the morning of something that I need to be very presentable for. This is after scrubbing dishes, hand washing clothes, typing, and everything else I do on a daily basis every day for a week. I'm highly impressed. Usually, my paint job lasts for not even a day!
Basically, the top edges are starting to wear. I"m amazed!
I got to try out the Tokyo Lights strips and they are amazing. Most of the time, you see the pink and gold glitter, but there are times when the light hits it just right, you see only gold glitter. It screams my name!
Because I have fallen in love with Color Street, Corry and I are throwing a party. All you have to do is join the group and shop! (Yes, I get to earn some too, but you are going to LOVE this product!)
By now, I'm sure that you know how much I adore Thirty-One Gifts. I love the prints, functionality, and durability of Thirty-One Products. They have some beautiful new prints that you are sure to love!
These prints are bright, bold, and beautiful. Thirty-One has taken inspiration from around the world and made designs that will take your breath away. There is something for everyone!
Even better: there is a solid to go with each print!
Stories are spectacularly successful learning tools. Many studies show that children whose parents tell and/or read stories to them from an early age turn out to be better readers and students later on.
Furthermore, you are twenty times more likely to remember information if you learn it in a story than if you learn it simply as data to memorize. In part, the more stories we encounter, the more effectively our brains learn to work within the structure that most stories follow. We not only absorb the stories’ contents, but at the same time, our brains get used to organizing what we learn into a usable form. We learn how to learn through stories.
Other brain researchers have found that different parts of the brain kick in when we encounter a story that comes with a visual image, such as on a TV or computer screen, versus when we encounter a story for which we fill in the visuals with our imaginations, as when we read alone, are read to, or listen to an audio. These different parts of the brain link with different forms of creativity, visualization and imagination. They even help us build the ability to empathize with other people by “visualizing” ourselves inside characters. We must “exercise” these different parts of the brain in order to acquire these skills, so introduce stories to a child through a mix of technologies.
As a professional author and storyteller, a father, and the husband of an award-winning schoolteacher and counselor, I can attest firsthand that one of the most effective and most engaging ways to teach and to learn is through stories. Here are a few tips I want to share to help you integrate storytelling into your child’s daily routine:
1. Start with picture books when your child is very young. Reading to children not only offers the value of the book’s contents, but also visually demonstrates that you value books, which reinforces your child’s interest in reading. Read aloud to your child, or try telling a story you already know in your own words, as you turn the pages. This allows you to keep eye contact with your child, while offering you the security of having the book to refer to if you feel you’ve lost your way.
2. Introduce stories of historical or fictional people who do what they love. There are endless resources: books and web sites that tell stories of famous artists, composers, engineers, athletes, scientists, etc. You never know which one will resonate with your child and open up a lifetime passion, so offer a variety. I’ve had many people tell me “I’m a scientist/artist/author now because I listened to your recording about scientists, etc.”
3. In addition to telling stories to your child, try to tell with her or him. First, tell an old favorite together. It gives the child a sense of mastery, particularly if every so often you ask, “What did she do then?” Next, try creating a new version by asking, "What if Cinderella hadn't dropped the glass slipper? Can we think of another way she and the prince might have found one another?" If you reach a dead-end, go back to an earlier moment of decision in the story, hae the character make a different choice, and go on from there.
4. Another form of storytelling is family stories. Sharing incidents from your life, or those of your ancestors, gives the message to your child that s/he is important enough to share in this family history, and imbues your child with a sense of her/his own roots and identity.
5. Always consider to whom you are telling the story, and think of yourself as “translating” the intent of the story onto a level this person can understand. You can tell a story differently at different developmental stages. Think about what you most want the child to remember. Start simply with what you know, and tell it in your own words. If you make a mistake say, "I forgot to tell you that…" and go on; kids find that endearing. Another way to handle having left out a part is to say, "Now what Aunt Joan didn't know yet was that Uncle Bill had already bought the tickets." This presents the information you forgot as a dramatic element of the tale. Storytelling reinforces reading, too, and adds a rich oral language element, but it demonstrates something additional.
6. One powerfully positive element of storytelling is that it fosters a strong bond between parent and child. Through our stories, and the manner in which we choose to tell them, families and entire societies pass on what matters most to them. Children come to recognize that you are sharing your true self, not through a lecture but through a story. Your child may not retain into adulthood every single detail you taught him/her, but always will remember that, “Mom/Dad loved me enough to share what s/he thought really mattered the most.”
If you are fortunate, there will come a day when you see your own child, now grown up, carry on this story tradition with his/her child. It all starts and ends with love -- and a good story.
Jim Weiss founded Greathall Productions in 1989. To date, Jim is the producer and reader of 58+ Greathall storytelling recordings featuring classical literature and history, as well as masterful and thoughtful, unabridged readings of Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham; Men of Iron by Howard Pyle; and more. He is also the recipient of 100+ national awards from numerous prestigious sources. Jim travels extensively across the United States, Canada and international destinations performing and teaching at community events, theatres, libraries, stores and schools; teacher and parent workshops; and at a wide variety of educational, literary and family conferences. For more information and to view Jim’s entire catalog, please visit, www.welltrainedmind.com.
One of my favorite areas of study has always been child psychiatry. I have always been fascinated by the development of their tiny brains and the progress that is made over the first few years. I remember as my children were in those first few years of development (and even still, Snapper), thinking back to my child psychology classes and being amazed and seeing it in front of my face.
My daughter sees a child psychiatrist on occasion, with her developmental pediatrician. I enjoy being able to ask questions and listening to the theories on her different diagnosis. Snapper doesn't have the typical "handicaps" that most people associate with a psychiatrist, but she still benefits. When they were kids, my brothers saw one for their ADHD. There are many different reasons why a child may benefit from seeing a psychiatrist, even if there are no "problems."
1. Many things can effect a child that do not necessarily have an impact on adults. Bed wetting and other sleep issues can be caused by very simple things that a psychiatrist can figure out.
2. Is your child facing a major life change? Changing schools, parent divorce, moving, etc? A child psychiatrist can help them work through their feelings and adjust properly without as much set back as is normally expected.
3. Has your child lost a loved one and struggling to cope? This may be a good time for a child psychiatrist.
4. Is your child facing a bully, either child or adult? Have you run out of ideas to help? A psychiatrist can help work through their fears and deal with the bully in a productive manner.
5. Is there something going on with your child that you just cannot put your finger on? It may be time to call a psychiatrist.
6. If your child has major or unfounded fears, a psychiatrist can help.
7. Is your child complaining of physical problems, pain, colds, but there is no medical reason, or they are recurring? Sometimes these can result from emotional turmoil, or even depression, and a psychiatrist can help.
8. If your child is struggling in school all of a sudden, a psychiatrist may be what they need to work through problems. Even going away to school could be a reason for a consult with a psychiatrist.
9. Is your child getting in trouble a lot (home, school, with the police) or showing animosity toward authority figures? There may be an underlying issue that a psychiatrist can help with.
10. Nightmares, temper tantrums, depression, self-destructive behaviors, addictions, promiscuity, rage, depression, and change in eating habits are other things that you may want to consider having your child see a psychiatrist for.
As parents, we are usually the first to notice a change in behavior or emotional health, even if they try to hide it. We always want what is best for our children and try to handle these things in the correct way. It is OK to need help with this and it is OK to seek professional advice when our own emotions get in the way. Sometimes kids can benefit from talking with a stranger that "will not judge," even if we don't think we will, sometimes our kids think we will.
My husband and I have been married for 8 years and together for 12 years (well, we had some break ups along the way, but we always came back "home"). We have never spent a night separated (this does not include my taking care of my healing mother or having babies while he took care of our other little and the house). No, we do not have the perfect marriage, we have our fair share of problems. How do we handle them? We always say I love you before bed and we always sleep in the same bed, no matter how made we are at the other. We also believe in when something is broken, you fix it- not throw it away. That means, if it takes counseling to save our marriage and our family, we would do it. There are other benefits of marriage counseling, too!
Here are 5 Benefits of Marriage Counseling you may not be aware of:
1. You should be guarding your marriage meticulously, from the beginning. A marriage counselor can help you with this.
2. Marriage counseling can help couples navigate through the expectations they put on each other and make more realistic expectations, instead of super ones that we tend to place on our other half.
3. You can use marriage counseling as a "check-up" to make sure that your marriage is still in "great shape."
4. Marriage counseling can also help you work through financial obstacles, especially those that are creating havoc in your marriage.
5. Marriage counseling can work as a type of family therapy, helping you to make decisions and solve problems with your family as a whole, discipline, and more issues with children.
Marriage counseling should not be taboo. In a world where divorce, separation, and loveless marriages are on the rise, something has to give. Yes, marriage is not for everyone and not every couple should remain married, but wouldn't a neutral third party helping you decide this be better than just walking away and throwing something you have worked on for years in the trash?
Disclaimer: I received products to review. All opinions are my own.
We had some amazing 18" doll items sent for Snapper and Bailey to play with. I've been wanting to get this review up for a while, but it has been crazy around here. I love watching them play, though. They are such a pair and completely inseparable.
I had my fair share of dolls as a child, but I have never seen anything like this. I was attached to books constantly. When Snapper "reads," it is to Bailey. I cannot say enough good things about this doll and what she has done with my little princess. Bailey has been the best therapy I could have asked for- even got her talking! Sophia's Doll Clothes has added so much to this that it is hard to explain. Snapper is not very good at pretending. She is better at mimicking behavior. Her developmental pediatrician said that with help, we can turn her mimicking into pretending. Sophia's is helping with this and helping Snapper step out of her box and play new things. We just have to mix it in with things that she does.
For instance, she helps me bake. So, with the baking set, she can teach Bailey to bake and they can throw a party together. We are working her way up to pretending things she has had no experience with, like new sports, camping, and more.
This time, we were sent a gorgeous table and chair set, a baking set, and a tea party set. These are all absolutely beautiful and well constructed with quality materials. The table and chairs set is beautiful and easy to assemble. The directions are simple and all you need is a screwdriver! It is the perfect size for Snapper to sit at on her knees while playing with Bailey and her stuffed animals and dolls! They cook, eat, have parties, do homework, and play games. It is like a family's table- memories are made there!
Look at that beautiful cake fit for a true princess! This tea party set & dessert items is something every little girl must have. Whether she has an 18" friend or not, it is a must- the doll is an absolute bonus! This set is colorful and has everything your little girl needs to throw the perfect tea party- even a table runner and napkins! Pair this with other food sets for a complete meal. I love how the teapot even fits in her hand!
The baking accessories set is perfect for little girls who love to be in the kitchen with mom (or dad)! It has everything to bake cookies and cupcakes, even the recipe and ingredients! The sizing of the items is just perfect for little hands helping even smaller (plastic) hands. The mixer even fits her hand! The measuring spoons and mixing spoon are just adorable.
Look, they even baked me a birthday cake!
Sophia's products are very well made. They stand up to both of my kids playing. Tbomb gets in on the fun quite often! The prices are great and have something for every budget! They fit well with the dolls and can even be mixed up. Your child doesn't have to play with one set, he or she can mix it all up or play with items individually. For example, Bailey always takes her tablet along, even if she doesn't take the rest of the travel items! You will be ecstatic with your decision to buy sets and clothing from Sophia's. (Plus, shipping is free with a $60 purchase)
Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own.
Help your kids get excited about learning God’s Word! The NKJV Early Readers Bible offers the respected New King James Version® translation and 192 pages of helpful maps, charts, articles, study tools, and more. It’s the perfect first full-text Bible for children ages 7 to 10, and it comes in a fun, shiny foil cover they will love. The NKJV Early Readers Bible offers tons of extra resources to help your children understand what they are reading, at a very affordable price. Your kids will love the shiny foil cover, and the text is printed in a large-print type, so it’s easier for them to read. This engaging Bible also includes 192 pages of helpful maps, charts, articles, and study tools such as: Book introductions Illustrated word list Reading plans Scripture memorization plans Important prayers from men and women in the Bible Teaching articles Full-color illustrated biblical and secular timeline Informative charts and graphs Maps, concordance, and more Full-color presentation and record pages This Bible is a wonderful first Bible for early readers to help them know God, understand His Word, hide it in their hearts, and build important Christian character traits in their lives.
I've always had many different translations of the Bible, as well as the same translations, but different features. I've been doing this with the kids. I check out different bibles for the kids and see if I think the features and language is right for them. They now each have several different ones. If I look through it and think it would be best for someone else, we pass it on- usually to a cousin. This one is perfect for Snapper. Not only is it sparkly and pink, but there are visual features that are wonderful for her learning style. The large type is also perfect for kids. I personally would use this bible because of the prayers, maps, graphs, and reading plan. I love the word list too! This is perfect for any little girl in your life.
Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own
Every dad needs a little help sometimes! Looking for instruction, reassurance, or encouragement? These topically arranged devotions and scriptures from the NIV Men’s Devotional Bible will inspire and guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re raising toddlers, teens, or children of any other age, God’s Words of Life for Fathers offers practical wisdom for everyday parenting. This handy reference will strengthen you in your challenging and rewarding role as a father.
When we got this book in the mail, Tbomb read the cover wanted to read some of the scriptures inside, so I let him. He wanted to be the one to give it to dad and read him some from it. Dad was in awe of what the book is and listening to his little boy read scripture to him.
I'm honored to have a husband that believes in showing our children how to act, not just telling them. He is a man of God and does not dismiss the opportunity to talk with our kids about God. He has the patience of a saint and is the perfect example of what a man, husband, and father is supposed to be. Even with that, he still struggles to find the answers. I have seen him time and time again pour over scriptures looking for an answer and looking for what God wants him to know.
This book makes all that a little simpler. When he is struggling with something, he can turn to that section and find the scripture he needs. After that, he pulls out his bible and reads the passage. This has been the best book for him.
I am always being asked about the kids' backpacks. While they are homeschooled, keeping their backpacks together and ready to go is one of my biggest aids and something I recommend to other families. If your kids do "go to school," having a separate backpack for car trips or running errands won't hurt and may just save your sanity.
We have tried several different backpacks but always go back to the Lil' Go by Thirty-One gifts. It is a perfect size and has simple features, which is definitely a winner!
When we go anywhere, we take the backpacks. Everything they need is inside. All I have to do is toss in a folder with worksheets for a school day and we are good today. They even have a desk inside!
All Together:
They both have:
Desk
Sunglasses
MP3 player and earbuds
Mini first aid kit
Crackers
Snapper also has her doll carrier and a hair brush.
The Desks:
They both have:
Dry erase notepad (these case as part of a stationery set)
Small alphabet workbook
Spiral Notebook (these came as part of a stationary set, and are a little smaller than most)
Dry erase flash cards
Small coloring book
Pouch with: Stencils, dry erase pencil, pencil, dry erase eraser, multi-color pen, triangle crayons so they do not roll, and a color-wonder marker
A few color-wonder drawing sheets
Everything fits nicely inside the desk and it is easy to put away for them. The desk is actually one of the plastic cases that Crayola sets come in (the blue is from the color wonder kit and the pink is from the glitter kit).
The Outside & How it WORKS
On the outside, they both have a keychain they picked out with an "if lost label" that has my google voice number on it.
There is a small carabiner with a sock mate on it. This may seem strange, but it is perfect for keeping up with a jacket that has been taken off, a stuffed animal, or other soft items that they may carry around. Tbomb has even hung spiderman from it.
On the top of the backpack, attached to the handle is a large carabiner. This is one of the handiest things I have discovered. With this carabiner, I can hang their backpacks anywhere. I first started doing this to hang them on the stroller when Snapper was still using one. Then, I found that I could hang their backpacks on the back of the car seat (on that handle) and they can reach what they want without having their bags in their laps or fighting over extra seat space!
When it is time to go, we grab backpacks, throw in the water bottle, sometimes grab an extra snack or lunch, scoop up Snapper's doll and Tbomb's action figure and we are out the door. They are keeping up with their own stuff and I'm not wondering if I have forgotten something. Everything is there and ready to go.
For a longer day (full of appointments or a long drive) or vacations, it is really simple. We just throw in tablets, possibly a few extra toys, and we are set to go.
Disclaimer: I received products to review. All opinions are my own.
I guess, like most parents, the type of shampoo I bought my son was never a major question. I just used the basic shampoo that was also safe for his eyes and skin so any kids' shampoo would do the trick. I thought it was this way with all kids, but I was sorely mistaken. My daughter is 4 now and I find myself spending entirely too much time looking at shampoos and conditioners for her.
Snapper's hair is very curly, can be very frizzy, but also thin. I want products that will protect it, while also cleaning the play out of it, not drying it out, and not pulling the curls out (yes, some shampoos do this). I was spending more time shopping for her hair cair products than for my own very thick, coarse, frizzy, curly, junk (well before I shaved it). I knew something had to give. My answer came in the form of Fairy Tale Hair Care.
Fairy Tales Hair Care, a company that started in 1999, sent me some products that I swear were made for my daughter. I received shampoo, conditioner, after sun spray, bug repellant for kids, and some awesome swag.
I have fallen in love with these products for my daughter and cannot wait to try more of their products with Snapper.
1. Bug Bandit: Just say no to pesky bugs! DEET free, non-toxic and pesticide free bug repellent helps to repel mosquitoes, flies, fleas, gnats and other biting insects. Lemon Eucalyptus oil, soybean oil, cedar bark, citronella, peppermint and rosemary blend. Soybean Oil is proven to repel mosquitoes for 3.5 hours. Lemon Eucalyptus Oil is as effective as low levels of DEET – without the harmful chemicals. Proven effective in children over the age of 3. Gluten, dairy, and nut free. Contains Soy.
2. Lifeguard Clarifying Shampoo: Remove sea salt, chlorine green, and daily build-up with gentle fruit extracts. Vitamins and minerals restore softness, boost shine and protect hair. Deep clean sun damaged hair with natural extracts! Remove chlorine “green” sea salts and minerals with gentle yet effective extracts for clean, soft and shiny hair. Orange flower extract, grapefruit, and lemon gently cleanse damaged hair. Restore softness with vitamins and minerals to detangle all hair types. Perfect for avid swimmers. A family favorite. Color Safe for Moms!
3. Lemon-Aid Conditioner: Remove sea salt, chlorine green, and daily build-up with gentle fruit extracts. Vitamins and minerals restore softness, boost shine and protect hair. Deep cleansing treatment heals sun damaged hair with natural extracts and moisturizing ingredients! Loaded with natural extracts and rich, creamy moisturizers to deep clean and condition even the most sun damaged hair. Grapefruit extract, lemon peel, and orange flower extract remove sea salts, minerals, hard water deposits, and chlorine. Aloe, jojoba, vitamins E and B restore moisturize and shine for tangle free hair. Perfect for the entire family.
4. CoCo Cabana Spray: Remove sea salt, chlorine green, and daily build-up with gentle fruit extracts. Vitamins and minerals restore softness, boost shine and protect hair. Banana leaf extract and coconut oil protect and defend against sun & surf! A fragrant blend of natural ingredient condition brittle, dry hair. Rich conditioners moisturize all day long. Revives sun-worshipped hair
A beach bag must have!
These products could not be more perfect for my little blonde curly-headed girl who is part mermaid! She loves being in the water, even if it is just the little kid one we have put up for them to swim in the evenings in. During the summer, they are both outside almost all day and I always worry about the damage the sun could do to her hair because it is so thin and curly. I never worried about mine because it is dark and thick. Now, I just make sure I keep the CoCo Cabana spray handy and she is good to go. The Lifeguard shampoo and conditioner are perfect to wash the summer heat and damage off. I've even started using them on my son, just in case. His hair doesn't seem to be near as dry this year, and his is more like mine.
The Bug Bandit spray has become a staple for us. The kids have bug repellant bracelets, but they are not always the best option. We prefer spray when we are out in the backyard near the woods because there are all kinds of biting insects and this way, we are covering all of our bases. The spray even seems to be effective against chiggers- we've had no issues this year.
The website has a ton of useful information about Lice and the prevention of it, where to buy their products, and so much more. I also think its really cool that they share the back label of their products online. They are located with the photos of the product.
Fairy Tales Hair Care also has a line of natural lice treatment, natural lice repellant shampoo, conditioner, and styling products, and a line of shampoo, conditioner, and detangler especially formulated for curly hair.
I was asked recently why I haven't shared recipes for the dishes and appetizers that I take to family dinners here on my blog. Well, honestly, I haven't thought about it. These are the same things I have made for the past 10 to 15 years. I just know what I make and take them along, there isn't much thought put into it anymore. So, I'll start sharing.
One of the family favorites has always been my Spinach Dip. I never thought that there was anything special about it, but even my brothers and cousins that are not fans of vegetables (Oh, and my dad) love this dip, so I'll share it today. It is yummy and super easy.
What you need:
Block of cream cheese
Small package of sour cream
Hidden Valley Ranch Mix
2 packages of frozen/ chopped spinach
Shredded carrots (optional)
First, you are going to want to defrost the spinach. Make sure you defrost it in a colander, so you do not have excess liquid.
Then, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch mix. You may want to use a mixer.
Finally, stir in the spinach and optional carrots.
See, that is simple!
Serve with chips, crackers, toast, and even fresh vegetables. For added flair, serve in a small crock or a bread bowl!
My Tbomb is a science nerd, for lack of a better word. He is obsessed with all things science. We even have to pray for the people in Hawaii every night because when he heard about the eruptions, he started studying about volcanoes! He is a big reader- physical books and on his Kindle (kids edition) and the books he chooses are always science.
Because of this, we've been doing a lot more impromptu experiments and I've been really trying to drill the scientific method into him. I use these sheets with experiments and also in a sheet protector for problem solving.
I've created it in both whole page size and half-page size.
Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own.
40 Slimy, Squishy, Super-Cool Experiments
Capture Big Discoveries In a Jar, from the Magic of Chemistry and Physics to the Amazing Worlds of Earth Science and Biology.
Overflowing with 40 dynamic, slimy, and super-cool experiments, this fun guide encourages budding Einsteins ages 8-12 to use a mason jar to explore the wonders of chemistry, botany, biology, physics, and earth science. Mason jars are the perfect containers for all kinds of experiments, and unlike expensive and fragile beakers and cylinders, they are affordable and durable. With a jar as a little lab, readers will learn how to create miniature clouds, tiny tornados, lava lamps, squishy, colorful slime, and much more! From the kitchen counter to the classroom or science fair, Mason Jar Science will pique a child’s love for scientific exploration and uncovering the mysteries of the world — no lab coat required!
I absolutely love this book and it has become a staple in my school planning bag. I love finding an exciting experiment that doesn't require a lot of tools we do not have to go along with lessons. We have tons of mason jars, so that is never a problem. Plus, the experiments are projects that really excite kids and get them excited about science.
In addition to the experiments and projects, there are other lessons. These include the scientific method, intros to biology, chemistry, physics, botany, and earth science. A few of the experiments are Lava Lamp 2.0, Making 3 different types of slime, String of Stalactites, Cornstarch Quicksand, Homemade Compass, Kitchen Jar-den, Make a Bug Vacuum, and even a tower of liquids. The book also includes a glossary, metric conversion chart, barometric pressure chart, and an index.
There are "side projects" all throughout the book, like making a bubble wand, speak like scientist excerpts, and more. I really like the way the book is worded. It is worded to inspire fun, not like a textbook. The book really makes science fun. As a homeschool mom, that is what I look for!
Yogini’s the zen of slow cooking spice blends makes slow cooking both easy, meditative…and delicious!
Lake Forest, IL (June 9, 2018) —Research shows that
meditation may improve anxiety and depression and may also decrease stress.[1] What
does this have to do with slow cooking?“ Taking 20 minutes a day to disconnect
from work, your phone, and the chaos of the day to retreat to the kitchen to
prepare a delicious meal, can be an incredibly meditative process”, shares Meg
Barnhart Founder/Co-Creator of Yogini’s the
zen of slow cooking spice blends. With the rise of slow cookers,
multi-cookers, and pressure cookers (according to recent research presented by
the Wall Street Journal, the Instant Pot’s popularity has led to a rush on
multi-cookers, a category that grew 68% in the past year)[2], there is growing demand for
resources to make home cooking easy. the zen of slow cooking does just that and much more.
Yogini LLC was
founded by Meg Barnhart, a mom of three who was committed to creating delicious
meals for her own family while also short on time. But more than just feeding
her family nutritious meals, Meg knew innately that a home needs a spiritual
foundation that cultivates a sense of comfort, trust, and strength so often
created through sharing meals. Rooted in this commitment to making the comfort
of home-cooked meals more convenient in increasingly busy lives, Meg, with her
business partner, Jane McKay, developed the
zen of slow cooking spice blends. These spice blends were designed to make
it easy to use slow cookers to create delicious meals conveniently.
“The home cook
truly brings the life force into the home,” Meg Barnhart, Co-founder says.
“Bringing together our families through home-cooked meals provides time to
connect and truly savor our meals. We created the zen of slow cooking spice blends to make it easier for busy
families to make delicious meals using the tools of slow cookers and pressure
cookers.”
Many people think
that they just don’t have time to gather in the kitchen and cook a delicious
meal, but it’s actually fairly simple. In just 20 minutes of prep time, one can
infuse their home with calm, joy, and delicious food. Additionally, there are
proven benefits to gathering one’s family to eat a delicious home cooked meal.
Research has shown that eating together as a family can elicit benefits that
range from neurological to nutritional to behavioral.[3]
What started as a
food blog celebrating the Slow Cooker and later its millennial cousin, the
Instant Pot, has now turned into an award-winning spice blend business that
makes good slow cooking easy. the
zen of slowcooking offers 9spice blends to excite any palette: Coq Au Vin,
Indian Dal, Mediterranean, Moroccan Tagine, Mulling Spices (seasonal blend),
Provençale, Sichuan Spice, Southwest Fiesta andSmoky
BBQ. A wealth of recipes that will take just 20 minutes or less to prepfor each blend can be found at thezenofslowcooking.com. New blends are developed by Meg’s
business partner Jane McKay, also a mom with her degree in Agricultural Economics & Food Marketing and a passion for food provenance and
global flavors that she weaves into her recipe development.
Each packet is
made with premium non-irradiated spices designed to be used in combination with
whole fresh foods. All of the spice blends are gluten-free, and most are salt
free. (There is a small amount of salt in the Smoky BBQ blend and Indian Dal)
and are designed to create a meal for 4-6 people).
Yogini’s the zen of slow cooking spice blends
are also socially conscious, a certified B Corp, giving job opportunities with
Planet Access Company to people with developmental disabilities through
Yogini’s transformative employment opportunities and impact initiatives. In
2017 thezen of slow cooking Sichuan Spice Blend won an internationally
recognized Sofi Award and in 2018, Ms. Barnhart received the Specialty Food
Association’s Leadership Award.
Enjoy these two
recipe selections with Pressure Cooker and Multi Cooker such as “Instant Pot” from
the zen of slow cooking website:
About Yogini and the zen of slow cooking spice blends
Yogini, LLC was created by Meg Barnhart,
to create a new business model that incorporated branches of product
development together with media, not-for-profit, meal guidance, and future kitchen-ware,
all infused with mindfulness, comfort and care. In 2012 Ms. Barnhart and her
business partner, recipe developer, Jane McKay, launched their food blog that
celebrated the pleasures of slow cooking. Seeing the need to provide convenient
solutions for nourishing meals, they developed and launched the zen of slow cooking spice blends that
offer 9 spice blends: Coq Au Vin, Indian Dal, Mediterranean, Moroccan Tagine,
Mulling Spices (seasonal blend), Provençale, Southwest Fiesta, Smoky BBQ and award-winning
Sichuan Spice.
the
zen of slow cooking spice blends are
available for purchase at thezenofslowcooking.com , Amazon, Whole Foods throughout the
Chicago area and in select natural foods stores.
A wealth of recipes that will take just
20 minutes or less to prep for each blend can be found at thezenofslowcooking.com.
For more information about Yogini, LLC, and
the zen of slow cooking spice blends,
please visit www.thezenofslowcooking.com. For media inquiries, requests for
product samples, high res images, or to set up an interview with the zen of slow cooking founders Meg
Barnhart and Jane McKay, please contact Margaret Marchuk at mmarchuk@christieand.co
or at 805-969-3744.
Join the
zen of slow cooking community on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@zencooks)
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[1]Goyal, M. (2014, March 01). Meditation for Psychological Stress and
Well-being. Retrieved from
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/1809754
[2] Schrodt, P. (2018, April 11). Does the
Instant Pot Actually Live Up to the Hype? Retrieved April 18, 2018, from
https://www.wsj.com/articles/does-the-instant-pot-actually-live-up-to-the-hype-1523462580
[3]Fishel, A. (2015, January 12). The most
important thing you can do with your kids? Eat dinner with them. Retrieved from
https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2015/01/12/the-most-important-thing-you-can-do-with-your-kids-eat-dinner-with-them/?utm_term=.062a68b2c38d
Disclaimer: I received a book to review. All opinions are my own.
I always have, and I always will, pray for you.
Before you were my little one, I prayed for you. As you grow, there will never be a time that I won’t cover you in prayer, because I love you so.
This cherished story, which has sold more than 165,000 copies, creates the perfect moment to wrap your little one securely in the love of a parent and of God.
This is by far my favorite book to read to my children. I love that we all get a blessing each time we read the story. It shows our little ones how much we love and care for them, that all during the day we think of them and that we ask God to guide us and to guide them. We pray for their present and for their future.
My children loved hearing that we prayed for them before they were born. This is such a wonderful story and makes a perfect gift.
Now raising their four-year-old daughter, Indiana, alone, after Joey’s passing, Rory Feek digs deeper into the soil of his life and the unusual choices he and his wife, Joey, made together and the ones he’s making now to lead his family into the future.
