Archives for July 2015

My other locker is a TARDIS — starting middle school as a Whovian * Dr. Who Fan

Disclosure: This post is brought to you by Giving Assistant. Post contains affiliate links; if you make a purchase, I may earn commission. Opinions shared are mine.

While half of my family went on a daddy/daughter trip recently, I took advantage of the quiet time and did some back to school shopping. My daughter is starting middle school this year, and I know she’s a little bit nervous about it — even if she won’t admit it! I’ve been a middle school teacher for 18 years, but this is my first experience as a mom.  To ease her anxiety, I wanted her to have some fun pieces to personalize her first locker. Having a locker is a rite of passage for 6th graders, and getting fun locker decor is a great way to mark that space. I’m an old pro at using cashback sites on my online purchases. Giving Assistant takes it up a notch, though, by giving back a portion of my cashback. Joining is free (and so easy) – it took less than 10 seconds to get started.

Giving Assistant [Read more…]

When the Crows Fly Low by V. J. Patterson book tour #giveaway

Disclosure: I received this book to review. Opinions shared are mine; post contains affiliate links.

#WhenTheCrowsFlyLow blog tour - savingsinseconds.com
When I finished the book When the Crows Fly Low, a moment of silence was in order. This stunning book still flows through my veins! If Nicholas Sparks had written Legends of the Fall, When the Crows Fly Low would have been the result.  V. J. Patterson’s book commanded my attention until the very last page.  At first, I was frustrated, thinking that I already knew what would happen.  Patterson was probably laughing inwardly, though, because what I thought would happen was the very last thing that occurred!  [Read more…]

101 Things Every Girl Should Know book review + Believe Kids Edition and Jesus Calling for Little Ones

Disclosure: I received these books to review. Post contains affiliate links; opinions shared are mine.

Have your kids stopped reaching for books on the shelf because there isn’t anything new there? Here are some fresh titles to read with your kids this weekend!

My daughter is headed into 6th grade this fall, and her tweenness might just be the end of me. I’ve taught 6th grade for 18 years, and I can safely say that the grass is NOT greener on the parental side.  The book 101 Things Every Girl Should Know might just save me from this angst. Each chapter is *just* long enough to keep a tween’s attention without being preachy, but also gives the perfect dose of essential information.  I love that the topics are perfectly balanced for a girl’s lifestyle. From dealing with Aunt Flo to baking a chicken (no kidding), girls are going to appreciate this resource. Each full-color page is visually stimulating, too.

101 Things Every Girl Should Know - awesome resource for tweens! [Read more…]

What would you buy with a $25 Amazon gift card?

The days of the long, scrolled out wishlists are over.  Having a catalog earmarked, with product descriptions circled? A thing of the past. These days, people love to keep digital wishlists.  Whether yours is on Pinterest, or you keep your coveted links on an online cart, this is for you.  I like to bookmark school supplies, new shoes, and some new craft materials.  This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.  I use that compensation to pay for self-sponsored giveaways like this one! 

Enter to win a $25 Amazon gift card - savingsinseconds.com

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Natural ways to keep pests away


Disclosure: I received product samples for review. Opinions shared are mine.
Normally, furry creatures make me smile. I like seeing rabbits, deer, and other “pests” around our yard. Until they cause a problem, that is!
Natural ways to keep pests out of your yard

In this photo, you can see where a cute little chipmunk made his home under our retaining wall. This little guy has been living off my garden, and it’s time to stop. I don’t begrudge cute creatures from nibbling on lettuce, but for me it’s a sanitary issue. So it was time to take steps keep pests away from my yard – naturally!
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Aaaannnddd…. ACTION! Suspense for the teens – family movie night #PiratesCode

Disclosure: I received this movie to review. Opinions shared are mine.

Pirate's Code

Having a family movie night might be rather difficult if you’re searching for clean, wholesome films that will keep the interest of your younger teens.  Pirate’s Code is a good compromise.  Filled with action, suspense, and the smallest bit of romantic tension, this movie is likely to become a favorite for the whole family!  [Read more…]

What to read this weekend – Two Roads Home, One Last Thing, Hearts Made Whole

Disclosure: I received these books to review. The post contains affiliate links; opinions shared are that of my guest reviewer.

My sister had some extra time to read this summer, so she carried home a parcel of books to enjoy! Here are her thoughts on these three dramatic novels. Thanks for your review, Allison! 

Each of these books led the reader on a journey closer to God and reminded us about the importance of relying on Him in the midst of difficulties. Each book was inspirational, interesting, and relaxing.

Two Roads Home

 

Two Roads Home by Deborah Ramsey

In Two Roads Home, Corrine and Jesse had come to that place in marriage where a couple still loves each other, but are stuck in a pattern of complacency and restlessness in their relationship. The years of creating and enjoying their abundant upper-middle class lifestyle are gone and they have come to a place where more of their lives are lived out of habit rather than appreciation. [Read more…]

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