A Woman's Walk in Truth

Vonette Bright is known in many circles because she and her husband were co-founders of Campus Crusade for Christ.  Knowing that I agreed to review A Woman's Walk in Truth: Devotions for Living a Confident Faith.
 This is a little book (about 6x4 inches).  The size, along with the padded cover make this seem like a "gift book" though I am sure that many Christian women would enjoy it.

I have not read all of this devotional (nearly 300 pages), but what I have read, I like.  The devotionals are short and thought provoking.  Each day's reading ends with a Bible verse and a "This I Believe" thought.  "This I Believe" thoughts are just a sentence  or two long, but they are nuggets of wisdom for the Christian.  Some are biblical truths while others are more of biblical ideas to combat the world's views

As I stated, the devotionals are short.  They really seem to reinforce God's word.  Many do not want a lengthy devotional if they are going to use it in addition to reading the Bible so this can be beneficial for many.  Please read the next bit knowing that I do not think that I am better than others.  Personally, I thought A Woman's Walk in Truth would be more for a woman who is seeking Jesus or is new to a relationship with Jesus.  Though I really liked what I read, I have decided to pass this book along to someone I know who needs some encouragement right now.

Vonette Bright encourages women to draw closer to God and to choose Him as the foundation for life.  At the end of the this little book the reader finds "Beginning Your Journey of Joy."  In it Vonette Bright describes, in detail, four principals and ideas to help a woman fully understand what it means to trust in Jesus as Savior.  She includes Bible verses and illustrations.

Thank you, Harvest House Publishers for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

5 Conversations You Must Have with Your Son, by Vicki Courtney

It seems that I've been reading a bit on parenting books lately.  I consider this a reflection on what I'm lacking...and seeking.

With this in mind, I can certainly say that some books are more beneficial than others.  5 Conversations You Must Have with Your Son has many chapters, but is divided into five sections, or conversations.  You can see how practical this book is from the conversation titles.

• Don't define manhood by the culture's wimpy standards.  It's OK to be a man!
• What you don't learn to conquer may become your master.
• Not everyone's doing it!  (And other naked truths about sex you won't hear in the locker room.)
• Boyhood is only for a season.  P.S. It's time to grow up!
• Godly men are in short supply.  Dare to become one!

Throughout the chapters, author and speaker Vicki Courtney elaborates upon each conversation, often taking a look at what a conversation might look like at different ages.  

I appreciate that Courtney seems to keep the readers' mind on the big picture.  It's not necessarily about the behavior, but about the heart of the child and their relationship with God.

"Our priority should not be simply to teach our sons self-control but first and foremost reveal to them the grace of God."

"While I hope my sons' primary motivation for saving sex until marriage is rooted in a desire to please God, should they get off track spiritually, I want to make sure I have given them plenty of other reasons to save sex until they are married." 

"A conversation about saving sex for marriage is not nearly as important as a conversation about Christ's saving man from his sins."  

And on the topic of sex, Courtney also addresses the fact that some sons will already be sexually active, and some unrepentant.  She also discusses the fact that Christian boys have the same hormones within them as their non-Christian friends.

When Vicki Courtney addresses men in their twenties (and older) who still live with mom and dad, she calls them Peter Pan...you know, the boy who never grows up.  Though I agree with much of what she writes in these chapters, I still felt that she was, at times, a bit harsh.  The goal is to launch our young men from boyhood to manhood before they leave home.  I do like that she considers ages 2-14 a prelaunch phase, where the boys are guided in learning basic life skills.  The test launch is from ages 14-18.  This is the time for painful and real consequences and more independence and not the time for parents rescuing their child for the poor decisions.  The final launch phase is from 18-22.  It's at this time that the man should become fully independent and responsible as a member of society.  As mothers, it does feel good to be needed, but it is important to remember that we are to guide them into adulthood and equip them with tools and knowledge needed to be a man on their own.

Though the summary on the back of the book indicates "...Courtney helps moms and dads pinpoint and prepare the discussions..." it is only moms that are actually addressed in the book except at the end of each chapter where there is a Dad 2 Dad thought.  I do not think it should be isolated to only one parent though she does explain a bit of her reasoning (with moms without a godly husband also in mind) later in the book.

Overall, I thought 5 Conversations You Must Have with Your Son was a beneficial book to read.  The final chapter was titled Godliness Over Goodness, and I think that idea sums up much of the book's focus.  I appreciated the honesty and grace in which Courtney wrote.  Though she included personal examples, it didn't feel like a memoir, and much does seem applicable to the general parent of sons.

This book was provided for an honest review by PR by the Book.

The Ultimate Life Organizer

It's Giveaway Week at This Simple Home!  Return to This Simple Home daily to see what the new giveaway is!

I am trying to gain more control over my home.  Organizing and cleaning do not come naturally to me.  I really appreciate the internet for help, but I am also a book girl.

The Ultimate Life Organizer, by Lisa Montanaro is a book with great ideas AND a workbook to help you implement those great ideas all in one.    Isn't it pretty?  More importantly, the content is helpful for those of us who want to get organized!


With over 150 pages and seven chapters, The Ultimate Life Organizer is a book that you can read straight through, or you can go straight to the chapter that you would like to focus on first such as Chapter 5: Organizing Your Paper, Bills, and Finances--Oh My!

The time management chapter was especially helpful to me.  Here's a snippet.

"Managing time is really about managing yourself and making choices that are in alignment with your goals.  Try to get a glimpse of what it would be like to live your life in a way that is more consistent with your goals, and honors you and the people in your life more fully.  You make powerful choices on a daily basis.  Every choice you make about how to spend your time is a conscious choice not to spend it doing something else."

Personally, I am taking my time working through this book and workbook and really enjoying it.  I have skimmed the chapters that I have not read thoroughly, because I want to really think about my goals and work through each situation.  The covered wire-O binding makes it easy to use as a workbook, too.  I would suggest checking out some of the inside pages here to see if you might benefit from this organizer, too.

I definitely recommend this organizer!  It's the perfect combination of ideas/resources and questions to help someone get organized.  I do not see any ways it can be improved...except maybe to make a Part 2 for people who are ready to take their organizing efforts to the next level.
GIVEAWAY!
I have one copy of The Ultimate Life Organizer to give to one reader of This Simple Home.  To enter, go over to This Simple Home to leave a comment.  Extra entries are available!  Comments here are closed so that you will go to This Simple Home.


Thank you Peter Pauper Press for providing the book for me and for the giveaway!

Fun Favorites

Zany.  Funny.  A little bit naughty.  My kids love it!

Yep, that describes Limelight Larry!  Larry's a peacock...and as peacocks are known to be, he's full of pride!  Larry thinks the book about him will be just amazing, of course, because it is about him.  When his friends step on the pages, Larry is irritated and tries to send them all away.  Eventually he finds himself on a whole page all by himself, but he finds that it's not much fun to show off by himself.  Larry gets over himself and shares the almost-last-page with all of his friends happily.

I have to say that Leigh Hodgkinson's Limelight Larry didn't "wow" me at first, though I certainly liked it.  However, both of my Big Kids LOVE it.  My three year old son will repeatedly request this book throughout the day if he lays eyes upon it.  I have to say, I love the creative fonts throughout the book (in size and style).  Not only that, but the illustrations are a bit different than the typical picture book.  Larry has a permanent place on our shelves!

Don't Worry, Douglas! was a whole family favorite from the first read!  There is so much to love about Douglas and this book.


Douglas is surprised when his father gives him a new woolly hat.  He can't wait to show his friends.  While he is showing off, the unthinkable happens...his new woolly hat has turned into a long string of spaghetti!  His friends try to advise him as to what he should do with his tangled ball of yarn, but no one has a good idea until Rabbit suggests that Douglas just tell his dad what happened.  As it turns out, Dad did know how to help...and gave Douglas his own hat to grow into.  (...Awe...)

So that is the story, but you need to know that David Melling (author/illustrator) made some fantastic pictures in Don't Worry, Douglas!  The animals really seem to have some personality!  As with many Tiger Tales books, this one also has fonts in special styles and sizes to give the book a bit of extra umph.  Instead of lots of "he said/she saids" the animals cried, whooped, gasped, yelped and more.  Just delightful, don't you think?

I definitely think Don't Worry, Douglas! is a book that is worth owning.  It seems special every time we read it...and that says a lot!
I am glad that Tiger Tales added Limelight Larry and Don't Worry, Douglas! to our collection for review purposes!  Thank you!

God's Message for Children

We seem to go through children's Bibles fairly quickly around here.  By reading a story a day (pretty much) we tend to read two or more children's storybook Bibles each year since they typically don't have too many stories in them.  We recently finished Mighty Acts of God: Family Bible Story Book.  (Linked to our review.)  Some families with five year old children are purposeful in reading from an unabridged (as in adult-style) Bible.  I think that will be our next step, but for now we typically read to our 3 and 5 year old kids at the same time, so we we find that storybook-style Bibles are still appropriate for us.


With the new year I'm excited to read God's Message for Children with our Big Kids.  It has a story for every day of the year.  Each day's reading and illustration fits on a page. I like that each day's story is not only dated, but also tells where the the book of the Bible and chapter(s) where the story is found.  (Actually, I think the Bible reference should be standard in story book Bibles, but it is not.)  An actual focus verse is also included and a summary/application at the end.  Then the story is told in language that is easy to understand, but from what I've read, it does not seem overly "dumbed down".

With a whole year (February 29th included) of Bible reading, many of the stories are told in pretty good detail over several days.  I do find that for a Bible I prefer the realistic illustrations in The Classic Bible Storybook, linked to review.  One of the things I like most is that some stories that are often not well-known to children can be read in this Bible, including several entries for Revelation.  Below are a few titles of some of the readings.  (Only the first word is capitalized in the titles.)

• Korah's rebellion against Moses (Numbers 16)
• An ax floats on the water (2 Kings 2 & 6)
• We shouldn't be afraid of the devil (Matthew 8)
• Judas dies (Matthew 27)
• Jesus sends us a special Helper (John 16)
• Everyone before God (Revelation 20)

Overall, we like God's Message for Children as a Bible for our family.  I think it will introduce new parts of the Bible for our children to learn about and discuss.  It does cost a bit more than the average children's storybook Bible, but it will be used for a full year.  The illustrations are cute, cartoon style.  You can read some selections at Amazon to get a good feel for this Bible to see if it is a good fit for your family.

Thank you, Kregel Publishers for providing this Bible for review purposes.

Reading in 2012

So if you spend much time at this blog, you know I really enjoy reading.  In 2011 much of my reading was the Bible, and from the birth of my baby on my Bible reading was done during nighttime feedings.  When choosing books for review (provided by a publisher at no cost to me) I chose books I thought I would really enjoy, and for the most part I did.  This year I will likely review for publishers even less as my time is more limited these days with three children.  (But don't hold your breath...)  At the same time I have bunches of books on my shelves (or in a stack) that I would like to read.

Throughout the year, I will be participating in the Reading to Know Book Club.   You can read about the book I picked for November here.  I have already begun the January selection...it's good, but not a quick read!

Also in January, I will participate in the Lucy Maud Montgomery reading challenge also hosted by Reading to Know.  I will share this picture book with my daughter.  I was delighted to find it used!  We also recorded a black and white version of Anne that I intend to watch along with the Megan Follows version that I now own on dvd.

In February I will participate in the Laura Ingalls Wilder reading challenge hosted by Stray Thoughts.  I will read a children's picture-book-style biography with my daughter.  We listened to all of the Little House books, several more than once and my five year old loves them.

It's possible that in July I will read for the Narnia reading challenge, but July tends to be rather intense for me. We'll see.

In October I will thoroughly enjoy the Maud Hart Lovelace reading challenge hosted by A Library is a Hospital for the Mind.  I got the Betsy-Tacy Treasury for Christmas, you know!  (Below I'm showing it to my daughter.)  I'd like to read more of her non-Betsy-Tacy works, too.

You can laugh at the pajamas...but respect the book!

Does anyone know of a Louisa May Alcott reading challenge?  I got her biography for Christmas and want to read more of her works, too.
I will be taking my Bible reading slowly this year and look to learn and grow (unlike last year when I read the whole Bible).  I can't wait to read Unbroken.  It seems to be everyone's favorite book of the year for those who read it last year.  Based on Carrie's review, I also want to read Lit! A Christian Guide to Reading Books  Another popular book, it seems, was Entwined.  So those books and some from my shelves and just a handful of well-selected reviews.

Great Books Read in 2011

Last year I began Net's Book Nook just as a place for me to document the books that I read and listen to throughout the year.  You can go there for a more complete book list.  I read over 30 books, including the ENTIRE BIBLE.

Many of the books I read were very good, but here are the great books that I highly recommend.  Each link is to my thoughts on the book.

Words: A Novel by Ginny Yttrup

Words was an incredible read.  A ten year old girl no longer speaks because of horrific abuse, but she collects words.  A woman meets the girl and both are changed...

Emily of Deep Valley by Maud Hart Lovelace

Emily of Deep Valley is definitely one of my all-time favorite books.  Just go read it.  It's so good.

Pearl in the Sand by Tessa Afshar

Pearl in the Sand was incredible.  It is a fictionalized story of Rahab.  I thought Tessa Afshar's writing was seasoned, though it was her first book.  I really loved it, and it made me think a bit more about biblical fiction-something that can be done well (like this) or not so well...

God's Priorities for Today's Woman by Lisa Hughes

God's Priorities for Today's Woman is a must-read for Christian women, but be prepared to be convicted!

Betsy's Wedding by Maud Hart Lovelace

Well, I am a Maud Hart Lovelace fan, right?  Betsy's Wedding was the perfect ending to the Betsy-Tacy series.

Don't Make Me Count to Three by Ginger Plowman

Don't Make Me Count to Three gave me great ideas in this crazy thing called parenting to help focus on heart attitude/behavior.  I will be re-reading this one!

Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland by Roseanna White

Colonial Maryland.  A book I couldn't put down.  A well-written, not-your-standard-romance!

The Bible (NIV, 1984)

That's right.  I read the whole Bible (with a few days to spare) in 2011!  You can read about my experience here.

I listened to some INCREDIBLE audio books this year, too.  Some were so good that I feel compelled to read them for myself though I already know the story!  (Click the link to see the titles.  If you haven't read them yet...go find them!)


Knowing my favorites (including audio favorites), do you have any reading suggestions for this coming year?? Please share!

Books I Wish I Read in 2011

In addition to the books I read, I listen to a lot of books on CD.  It makes the time in the kitchen washing dishes and preparing meals so much more pleasant!  I have tried to keep track of the books I listen to, but haven't done a very good job.  I created Net's Book Nook for the purpose of documenting the books I read and listen to, but I often forget!

I highly recommend each of these books!  I listened to each of them this year and wish I had taken the time to read them instead.  (I listened to them on CD instead.  I hope to read them one day for myself though.)

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, by Mary Ann Shaffer


The Help, by Kathryn Stockett

The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, by Jamie Ford 

Sarah's Key, by Tatiana De Rosnay

Two of these books have been made into movies, but I haven't seen them yet.  All but The Help are set (at least partially) around World War II.  The Help takes place in Alabama in the 1960's.  Can you tell I love learning about history through fiction?

Honorable Mentions go to Anne of Green Gables and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, two books I own and love.  Savvy by Ingrid Law and Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt.  Both were great!  All four of these are considered books for young readers...yet another theme of my reading.

My apologies for not including descriptions.  Links are to Amazon for you to read more there since I never actually reviewed them.  Please forgive me, but time is limited, but I really wanted to share!  If you want to see the reviews for my top favorite books read (not audio) go here.

What books are your favorites?  I'd love to hear and add to my must read list!  Please leave a comment (and link to a blog post if appropriate) and share!

Colonial Maryland...

Historical fiction has been bringing the past to life for me.  I have been learning so much and loving it!  Well-written historical fiction share incredible insight into the language, dress, culture, and specifics about the setting.

Before author Roseanna White's second book was even published, I wanted to read it.  By reading her blog, I had a taste of her writing, research, and most of all, her passion.  In fact, I chose that (her second) book, Jewel of Persia for the on-line book club next year!

I happened to have won a copy of Roseanna's latest book from Colonial Quills upon its release date earlier this month.  I was thrilled to finally read one of her published books.

The funny thing is that it is a romance.

Typically, I don't mind romantic elements within a book, but tend to avoid romance novels.  Something that I noticed for myself is that sometimes I take away unrealistic expectations from some romance novels (and this includes Christian historical romance), so I tend to shy away from them.  Based on knowing Roseanna from her blog (and just recently from Facebook, too) I knew that Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland would be a solid work of art...a book full of historical facts hidden within...a highly developed, well-written book.

I was not disappointed!  I absolutely loved Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland.

Lark finds her betrothal, Emerson, of two years (shocking for the day) in a compromising situation.  Needing to get away, she flees to Annapolis, Maryland to stay with the family of her brother's friend-complete strangers-with intentions for staying for months.  Lark quickly becomes best of friends with the family, especially their daughter Sena.  Sena's circle of friends open Lark's eyes to all that she has taken for granted and been sheltered from in the past.  She begins to look deeper within to examine herself.

"Never in her life had Lark felt so utterly selfish.   She didn't even know with whom her father dealt in business, much less whether all his  transactions were fair.  She only had an academic knowledge of the less fortunate in Williamsburg, recognized only the poor who sold her goods.

Now everywhere she turned, she was faced with realities she had either ignored or been unaware of.  Slave auctions and outcasts, ostracized Tories and social rebels.

And where did she fit in all this?  Where did her problems with Emerson rank on this scale of desperation?" 

Emerson learns of Lark's location and goes to her and remains in Annapolis since she will not return to Williamsburg.  He attempts to win her heart by remaining in Annapolis and spending time with her...finally getting to know Lark.

Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland  is a great book.  It offers insight into colonial life in Annapolis when it was our country's capitol and how snow nearly destroyed our independence as a country.  (Read Roseanna's thoughts here.)  The reader meets some of our founding fathers, though they are not main characters and Tories, too.  All of this fabulous history is interwoven through a not-your-standard-romance. I definitely recommend it!

Roseanna is offering the Great Annapolis Giveaway with all sorts of colonial goodies.  Round one ends today.  There will be another chance to win in February, so be sure to check it out!  While you are there be sure to get a taste of colonial times and Roseanna's writing by exploring a bit!

Sparkly Fun

A snowy setting, cute mice, and sparkles make these new Christmas titles just plain sweet!

Jingle Bells and Deck the Halls are large, padded board books that bring the familiar lyrics to life.    Illustrated by Veronica Vasylenko, the mice in the books tell the story of the songs.  The mouse family decorates their home in preparation for Christmas and enjoy a fun, though crowded sleigh ride.  Each book has added sparkles to the illustration which is a bonus for the reader...and little fingers who love to touch shiny things.

Both of these books have been enjoyed in our home as part of our reading at least one Christmas book a day this month.  If you want to teach a young child either song, this may be the way to do it!

I'd love to see more Christmas hymns and songs in books!  We have The Little Drummer Boy board book and love it.  Homeschooling Just Next Door shared about some other Christmas carols found in books that might interest you!

Thank you, Tiger Tales, for sending us review copies!

Raising Real Men

I hope he always loves and adores his sister...and one day will be her protector!

Though I only have two daughters and only one son, I want to be purposeful in understanding the way his mind works and the differences between boys and girls.  I was never a boy, so I need help with this-obviously!  Of course, my husband can help, but I recently read the book Raising Real Men to help a bit, too.

Authors Hal and Melanie Young are the parents to six boys and two girls, so they do know a bit about raising boys.  Raising Real Men: Surviving, Teaching and Appreciating Boys focuses on bringing up sons to be godly men despite the culture around us and even some of our own limitations and expectations.  The Youngs do not focus on just one age; instead they talk about boys as toddlers to young men.  Raising Real Men is an easy to read book, and the Youngs write in a comfortable style.  

The book discusses what God's word says about many things that we, as parents, really do have questions about.  It helps prepare us for what is to come-for those of us who still have young boys-and still gives us plenty to think about in the present, as well.

Some topics discussed are responsibility, leadership, competition, money, manners, chores, sexual temptation, and college.  I liked the variety in topics and thought the Youngs found ways to share from their personal experience and the Bible in a personal way.  I found that MUCH of what they were saying would benefit our sons would absolutely benefit our daughters, too, to be a child, teen, or adult who intentionally serves and honors God.

Early in the book, manly virtues are discussed.  I was told before I married my husband that some of his characteristics that I respect and admire the most would likely be the ones to drive me crazy one day.  (Umm...yes, that is often true.)  In the same way, some of the characteristics in boys that might drive us crazy like competitiveness, aggression, and a need for adventure grow into admirable virtues in men of persistence and courage.  The pursuit of adventure is not to be risky or foolish though.  Like any one of us, we can use our lives (and skills) in vain, or we can use our lives to further God's good and make Him known.  

Like with any parenting book, the reader isn't likely to agree with all that is written.  I understand and know that children, and especially boys are often hyperactive.  (In my experience my oldest daughter has always been a thrill-seeker and has the need to get outside to get her energy out.  But that is beside the point.)  As a former elementary school teacher, I understand that our typical school system is not ideal for most boys.  However, I was rather appalled at a statement within the chapter "Your Own School for Boys."  

"We're convinced if our sons were in school [not homeschooled],they'd be on so many pills they'd rattle when they walked."  

Yes, ADHD may be over-diagnosed and over-medicated (verses trying environmental helps first), but that does not mean it does not exist.  The statement above seems to blame schools and teachers for the children's diagnoses.  From my own experience it is parents who seek treatment, though at times at the suggestion of a teacher.  It is up to the parent to find a treatment plan with which they are comfortable.  If a parent doesn't want an official diagnosis or any treatment it is up to them!  However, a teacher has the responsibility (in the interest of the student) to point out a child's outward behavior that may (or may not) be related to near-sightedness.   It's still up to the parent to seek out medical advice either way!

I really appreciated the chapter about children "bearing arms."  You know...playing with guns.   (It made me think of Dobson's book Bringing Up Girls that made me begin telling my daughter she is beautiful, while focusing on the heart.  Linked to my review.)   At Halloween this year we never even asked our son who just turned 3 what he wanted his costume to be.  We figured we would use our available props/costumes to be a firefighter, football player, or baseball player.  It never dawned on us he would have an opinion, but he really wanted to be a knight.  As it turns out, he will get the Armor of God costume for Christmas, so next year he can be a knight.  I'm not sure he was thinking of protecting his family, but maybe!  This year he was content to be a baseball player.  Phew.  If our son desires to be in a profession where he needs to carry a gun, I don't want him to feel like he would be dishonoring his parents because we said all guns are bad.  (I also want to mention that they did note that not all Christian denominations agree with bearing arms.)

Hal and Melanie Young homeschool their children.  I am pretty sure that at least a quarter or a third of the book is related to homeschooling in one way or another.  By drawing on others' experience (since it is not in their own) could really make this book friendlier to a broader audience. 


Overall, I enjoyed this book.  I have Bringing Up Boys.  I suspect it is a research and life based book without the homeschool slant.  However, I think Raising Real Men was still beneficial read.  If you are a homeschool family with a son, I would definitely recommend it.

As a member of Timberdoodle's Blogger Review Team I received a free copy of Raising Real Men in exchange for a frank and unbiased review.  You might be interested in their parenting helps or their free homeschool catalog that is for anyone!

Am I Forgiving?

Sometimes a simple children's book has a message that is so clear that the reader can't help but to understand the message.   Less often, in my case, I am willing to listen to the message as an adult.  All too often we expect the many moral messages in children's literature to only apply to children.

When I saw the title of Am I Forgiving? I was excited for our family to check it out.  A gift to us a few years ago was the title Am I Praying? also by Jeannie St. John Taylor which we like.

Erik's friends treats him poorly...but through it all he checks his emotions and thinks through his disappointment and loneliness.  I love how he works through each difficult situation and continues to forgive.

I say, "That's okay, guys, I'm not mad."   And I'm really not.  That proves I already forgave them, doesn't it?  It's not hard to forgive them, because they weren't mean on purpose."


Erik is even able to forgive his best friend who purposely treated him meanly on purpose.  AND it seems natural in the book...not forced at all...because Erik shares his thoughts and feelings with the reader.


What a great book to help each of us, young and old, to check our own behaviors and attitude and to forgive!  It's so easy to be bitter and hold a grudge!


Thank you, Kregel Publishers, for sending me this copy for review purposes.  

ABC's and 123's

Tiger Tales recently sent me a box of books.  Immediately, I saw two books that I knew BOTH of my children AND I would love.  I was right!

A Is for Apple and 123 Count with Me are fabulous!  Both sturdy board books are interactive with "tracks" to trace the letters and numbers and flaps to lift.  (Arrows help to know the direction to go and the numbers help the child to know which order to go.)  Both books are geared for ages 2-5, and I think that is a great age for these books.

 In A is for Apple, each capital and lower case letter is shown, and the capital letter has a low-lying, different colored "track."  Each letter features a simple sentence, complete with illustrations such as, "Gg is for goat and gate."  Under the flap, is the second illustration and the end of the sentence.  My son (age 3) likes to trace the letters and say "Up, down, up, down."  Sometimes he says the letter, and sometimes he doesn't.  But he always names the pictures.  My daughter (age 5) traces the letters and reads the book aloud.  The other morning she saw A is for Apple and exclaimed, "That's my favorite!"  This is definitely a book I would consider giving as a gift and is a family favorite.

123 Count with Me uses the same techniques as A Is for Apple for the tracing of the letters with tracks and arrows.  Each page features a number, 1-20.  For the number eight, there are 7 trains showing and another hiding  under the flap.  Also visible on the page, it says "8 eight trains."  Under the flap, it says "Number eight is late."  I like the variety of objects featured in this book (socks, ducks, crayons, strawberries), but do wish that each page's illustrations were a bit more varied.  (For example, all 12 socks are purple and green striped.)  This is still a great tool for children to use to enjoy forming the numbers though!

Tiger Tales is known for their quality books, and these did not disappoint.  I love that they are alphabet and number books that are still engaging for for the young (age 2) and old (age 5).  Often similar books don't engage an older child that recognizes letters and numbers well.

Thank you, Tiger Tales, for providing us with these books for review purposes.

Get Wisdom!

Get Wisdom!: 23 Lessons for Children about Living for Jesus is written by Ruth Younts for children from kindergarten to fourth grade.  It is a really good resource for children and their parents (or teachers in a Christian school) to teach basic principles of biblical wisdom and godly character.  

Each lesson is just two pages long for children and focuses on a different bit of wisdom that we would want our children to do.  It begins with listening and obeying, but includes character traits like humility and courage, as well.  A simple (but meaningful) definition is given along with a Bible verse and colored illustration on one page.  The other page gives a couple examples of the character trait and leaves plenty of space for the child to write additional examples, workbook-style.  It ends with a prayer and a personal application.  BUT that's not all!  In the back of the book, there are parent/teacher pages!  Each lesson has an opening activity, discussion suggestions, and role play game suggestions.  In addition to the Bible verse included in the child's pages, another verse (not just reference) is included, too.  Sounds easy, huh?  

Now, I have to admit that I only completed the first lesson with my daughter (nearly five).  I quickly decided that I wanted to hold off another year before using this book with her to reap the full benefits of Get Wisdom.  (Keep in mind though she is nearly five, she is still in preschool.)  However, I think it is a very good resource for parents.  Want to see more?  You can see the introduction and two complete lessons here.  Go! Look for yourself!  Then buy it!

I really appreciate Shepherd Press sending me a copy of Get Wisdom!  I'm not the only one who likes this book...at Bible study last week a woman gave a copy to a mom who greatly appreciated it.  (And just an FYI, Shepherd Press are publishers of great books like Shepherding a Child's Heart and "Don't Make Me Count to Three!"-linked to my review- are parenting books filled with great wisdom.) 

"Don't Make Me Count to Three!" Giveaway

If you have been in Christian parenting circles, you have probably heard about Tedd Tripp's books Shepherding a Child's Heart  and Instructing a Child's Heart.  I highly recommend both books (and reviewed IaCH here.) because they really help a parent to understand the need for biblical discipline to be focused on the heart NOT the outward behavior.

Tedd Tripp's books were really good...they definitely made me think.  BUT for this momma, neither book really gave me the examples I needed to really be able to implement heart-oriented discipline for my young children.   In their defense, that was not the purpose of either book.  Ginger Plowman answered that concern in "Don't Make Me Count to Three!": A Mom's Look at Heart-Oriented Discipline.

If you find that you count misbehavior and are put off by the title of this book, "Don't Make Me Count to Three!", let me encourage you to still read it.  The idea is that the statement "Don't make me count to three!" and many other similar statements have the parent avoiding discipline, she doesn't say that that counting behavior is wrong.  But threats...not effective. 

Honestly, I thought this book was exactly what I needed!  Ginger Plowman's book reads very quickly, yet filled with what I needed to read to better understand disciplining in better way that would honor God.

" It is my calling, my priority, my struggle, and my goal.  

I will rise to the occasion and accept the task at hand.

  I will love, nurture, and train my children the way that 

God has called me to do." ~ page 21

Plowman really helped me, through examples and discussion, to better understand (oh, not perfectly!) how to get to the cause of the behavior.  You know, the heart of the matter.

One thing that I have been able to somewhat easily implement (though, oh, I need some more work in this) is to have my children (especially my daughter who is nearly 5, though a bit harder with nearly 3 son) go back and do the correct thing...you know, show love, obey, use a different tone...I help them with the words if they don't know it.  Then they do it.  You know...like role play or practice so that the next time they might make a better choice.

Throughout the book examples of dialogue...and even mistakes parents can make...are shared in a way that parents can utilize.  

Despite the controversy of spanking, I appreciated Plowman's distinction between childish behavior and foolish behavior.  She explains that childish behavior becomes foolishness when a child understands the clear instructions that have been given, and yet still chooses to disobey.  In her opinion, and I personally agree, direct disobedience and defiant attitudes need to be disciplined.  And she would say that the "rod" (spanking) is the means of this discipline.  She then gives many thought-out guidelines for biblical chastisement.  Oh, this is hard!    I've heard some of them before, but seeing them all together was very good for me.   

My overall thoughts on "Don't Make Me Count to Three!" are very positive.  I highly recommend it, and quite honestly, I think it is a book I need to revisit at least once a year for the next many years.  Ginger Plowman suggests that we are not to control our children's behavior, but to understand their hearts.  As we discipline them, their hearts can change...and eventually there will be outward changes in their behavior, too.

Tough stuff, huh?  Well, parenting is not for wimps.  (And I mean all of it, not just discipline...it truly is tough stuff...I began saying that after our first life-threatening situation with our children.)

GIVEAWAY (Be sure to check out all of our giveaways this week!!  There are more!)

Shepherd Press provided "Don't Make Me Count to Three!" AND they want to provide one Live, Learn, Love reader (who resides in the US) with a copy, too!  

• To enter, just leave a comment below!  Be sure that I have a way to contact you through email.
• Giveaway will run through Tuesday, October 11th.

Extra Entries~ Leave a separate comment for each!

• Follow LLL through Facebook or Google Friends Connect.
• Share about this (or any of this week's) giveaways through Facebook, Twitter...
• Visit Shepherd Press and tell me another book you'd love to have for yourself.

Winner is #12, Mozi Esme!  Congratulations!

Children's Books about Heaven

My nearly five year old is curious-and cautious- about heaven.  Though I think she likes the idea of heaven, she fears leaving what she knows.  That is perfectly reasonable.  Adults are often apprehensive of leaving this earth, even when they are certain of their home in heaven.

We have a couple of books that I like to share with my daughter to help her understanding of heaven.  Of course, the Bible is the authority on this, but I do like using books as a tool to help me explain heaven.

God Gave Us Heaven is excellent at clearing up some misconceptions about heaven in a very child-friendly way.  The reality is that we are not all old when we go and we won't be angels!  Papa bear also explains to Little Cub how to get to heaven.  This is an excellent book.  (We have it as part of a three-book treasury God Gave Us So Much, linked to review...Awesome book.)  This collection is written by Lisa Tawn Bergren.

Heaven Is a Wonderful Place written by Joanne Marxhausen is a colorful book with bold, crisp illustrations.  (When I saw this and another book, called 3 in 1 about God in three persons, at our family camp's gift shop, I was thrilled to purchase them since I had not seen them at other bookstores, though I had heard of them.)  God's love, heaven, hell, and how Jesus gives the gift of eternal life are all discussed.  Great book (and I highly recommend 3 in 1, too).  It is very appropriate for a family looking to discuss heaven in a biblical manner.

What about Heaven? is a book of questions a child might ask.  It's cute, and has rhyming text.  The main text does not help a child understand better about heaven-because it is a bunch of questions that a child might ask about heaven.  However, the back of the book is full of answers and Bible references that clarify some of those questions.


On a personal note, I thought I would share what prompted my writing this post.  I'm rather aware of the fact that we have friends and family that may or may not be in heaven one day.  I don't assure M that every person who dies will be in heaven to greet us.  I remember clearly when she asked me about one of my family members who passed away when I was young.  She asked if he was in heaven.  It was tough, but I had to be honest.  I also let her know that we can't be sure of someone else's life, but we can know for ourselves.  (I hope that makes sense.  M hasn't accepted Jesus as her Savior, but we still have these discussions.)  The Bible is the authority on this, and it makes it clear that "believing in God" isn't enough.  (See James 2:19.)  There is more to faith than acknowledging His existence. We need to trust in God and accept his gift of Jesus' sacrifice for us.  It's only through Jesus' blood that we can be accepted by God because we are each sinners.

So do you have other books you reall

Instructing a Child's Heart, by Tedd Tripp (Giveaway)

In my Friday morning Bible study this year, we read Instructing a Child's Heart.  (A few years ago we read and studied Shepherding a Child's Heart...it was also excellent.)

Both books are amazing, and the focus is on teaching our children truth, not just controlling and limiting unwanted behavior.  We are to direct them and teach them (and their hearts) God's ways.  It is solid, biblical teaching.

These paragraphs from chapter 13 Instructing a Child's Heart are convicting for this mom, but it's important that I do not let conviction and guilt stop me from doing all I can do to be a godly mom.  I can still strive toward the goal of teaching my children God's ways so that they can make the choice to follow Him.  I feel that it is a terrific summary of the entire book.

"We don't shepherd our children to assure that our children will 'turn out right.'  We shepherd our children to be faithful to the work God has given us.  Consequences do not serve as power plays to prove our role or power or strength or to put the kids in their place for our convenience.  They are designed by God to display the reality of God's ultimate rule in affairs of men and to extend mercy while there is time to repent and trust in God.
"Discipline is not an opportunity for us to show our children who is boss or hand out punishments that will change their behavior.  Even when our consequences are appropriate and underscore God's truth and our standards, discipline is primarily an opportunity to remind our children of their need to repent and believe in Christ, and forgiveness and provision available from God through Christ.  We are really declaring God's sovereignty and involvement with all he has created, offering relationship with God through Christ.  Show them the beauty and goodness of confession to God and others, and warn them of the coming judgment for unbelief." ~Chapter 13, IaCH


If that speaks to your heart, and you desire to be a godly parent, consider either of these books (or the DVD seminar series...great for a group study) by Tedd Tripp.  (In my opinion, IaCH has more application, but you may want to begin with SaCH.  I'm glad I did.  Both are invaluable resources for this mom.  I seriously need to read SaCH again now that my daughter is not a toddler.)  These books are invaluable resources, and I highly recommend them.  For those of you who like audio books, like me, they are available in audio, too!  Great for listening to as a couple!


Though both of these books were my own copies, but I am excited to tell you that Shepherding Press is offering a copy of either Shepherding a Child's Heart OR Instructing a Child's Heart for one Live, Learn, Love reader.  If you are not a parent, but know a mom or dad that desires to bring their child up in a godly way, do enter anyway and share this great resource!  


Giveaway
To Enter: Check out both Instructing a Child's Heart and Shepherding a Child's Heart and tell me which book you would prefer if you win.  Be sure that I have a way to contact you through your Blogger profile, or just leave an email address in your comment!  Giveaway is open for US residents.


Extra Entries:
~ Follow Live, Learn, Love (through email or GFC).
~ Like Live, Learn, Love on facebook.


Giveaway goes through June 20th.  Winner will be emailed and announced in this blog post.  
Winner of the book of her choice is comment #2, Michelle!  Congratulations!

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon, by Grace Lin

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
brings Asian storytelling to life.  Minli is a girl who lives with her poor parents in the Village of the Fruitless Mountain.  Her parents both work hard, and Minli works beside them in the fields.  Her father, Ba, tells timeless stories.  Maybe some are true; maybe they are just works of fiction.  Her mother, Ma, is discontented with life and is rather miserable.  Minli learns from a talking goldfish how to find the Old Man of the Moon, the one who has all the answers in her father's stories.

Along the way, Minli befriends many, especially a dragon who cannot fly.  He helps her find her way to the Old Man of the Moon.  In the end, she has a very difficult decision to make when she has to choose between a friend and herself.

What I liked:
This is a delightfully told book.  Grace Lin weaves the story of Minli together beautifully to remind all of us that contentment never comes in the form of money or possessions, but in thankfulness.  I really enjoyed the Asian setting, and especially the stories that Ba, and others, tell throughout the main story.  It is a well-written book with depth and meaning.  There are also occasional illustrations that add to the story itself.
What I didn't like:
Well, being that the setting is in Asia, it should be no surprise that a feeling of gods (and a goddess) permeate the book.  Initially it was rather subtle, but as the reader gets to know the Old Man of the Moon, and all that Minli must do to ask him a question, it becomes more obvious.  It is a fabulous reminder that my God is always present, always listening, and always reachable, unlike the Old Man of the Moon.

Overall, the story of Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is well-written, and really, a great story.  That is why it won a Newberry Honor.  Grace Lin explains in "Behind the Story" that some of the characters are based on myths, including the Old Man of the Moon is based on Yue-lao, the Chinese God of Marriage.  With that said, it does seem to be written as a fantasy...you know, talking creatures, dragons, and magical things happening.  As a Christian, I wouldn't be opposed to my children (many years from now) reading book geared for ages 9-12, because it is a good story and certainly would be a great springboard for discussions of many sorts, including comparing gods to God.

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Thank you, Little, Brown, for providing this book for review purposes.