It’s crunch time, people.  We’re facing the last week before Christmas. Is your list completely checked off?  Never fear – DaySpring has you covered.  These days, it’s the ideal resource for thoughtful, meaningful gifts as well as beautiful cards.  I’m a DaySpring affiliate (so the links in this post are my affiliate links), and they sent me a package of beautiful home decor items to share with you.

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Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres.  When I received this copy of Pursuing Gold from Litfuse, though, I wasn’t sure if it was a biography or a novel.

That black and white photo threw me off!   [Read more…]

Disclosure: The North Pole sent this book to us. Post contains affiliate links; opinions shared are mine.

Looking for something to do beyond Elf on the Shelf?  Our little guy got to play with the fun book we received called North Pole Ninjas.  The box includes a serene sensei, mission cards, and a hardcover book.  Our son woke up to find his elf sitting with the sensei.  Next to the elf, a mission card was propped up.  Would he accept the challenge? [Read more…]

Disclosure:  The Kinsa ear thermometer was sent to us for the Holiday Gift Guide.  Opinions shared are mine.

When my babies were little, taking their temperatures was such a tough task!  Trying to get a thermometer under their tiny arms, hold in their ear, or even sweep across the forehead seemed to always stir the child’s light fever-induced slumber.   I wish we had owned a Kinsa Smart Ear Thermometer back then.  Taking a temp in one — read that again….ONE!– second would have been a dream!  Well, it’s your turn to sleep like a baby.  Take a peek into this treasure of technology!  [Read more…]

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Opinions shared are mine.

Whether you’re a resolution-type person or not, you’re sure to enter the new year with anticipation and hope.  Even if last year was wonderful, it’s natural to want better in the months to come.  What if the past contained the good times, though?

Living a new life in 2017 can be simple.  By changing even one small habit, we can loosen the bonds of pain and regret.  Spreading our wings makes us stronger!

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Disclosure: I received this book from Blogging for Books; post contains affiliate links. Opinions shared are mine.

It’s that wonderful time of the year.  Sparkling lights, festive garlands, and gorgeous gift wrap.  Has it overwhelmed you yet?  When I’m getting bogged down with all the holiday strife, here are some ways that I revive the spark of cheer!

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Disclosure: This is a Fashionista Event and a promotional item was provided to me. Opinions shared are mine. 

It’s hard to believe that this is my 20th year of teaching!  Out of those two decades, 19 years have been spent in a 6th grade classroom.  It’s been so long since the days of having a rainbow-colored wrist from my overhead projector markers.  Technology has changed so much during my teaching career.  Through it all, Microsoft Store products helped me maintain a rigorous level of learning in my classroom, no matter what subject or content.   [Read more…]

isclosure: I received a starter set; opinions shared are mine.

You probably heard about the big wildfires that have been raging through East Tennessee. This week, we had the relief of some wonderfully rainy days to quench our dry earth.  During those storms, the wind blew down a few trees and scattered pine cones everywhere.  Before long, winter will be here and the birds will be needing some easy-to-find nourishment.  It’s hard to believe that it’s been almost a year since I posted about homemade suet cakes. It’s a delightful way to bring feathered friends to your backyard.  Think about the people on your Christmas list.  Is there an outdoorsman?  An elderly shut-in? A mother with small children who would enjoy having an easy activity to do with the kids?  You Do It Suet makes a wonderful gift!  The starter kit sets you up with a silicone mold and simple recipe selection.  [Read more…]

I worked with Whiffer Sniffer to bring you this post and giveaway.  Opinions shared are mine.

I’ll be dating myself with this question, but remember scratch and sniff stickers?  My friends and I would meet up on the school bus and trade our favorites.  Whiffer Sniffers are for the new generation!  This adorable collector’s item combines stuffed toys with favorite scents. [Read more…]

Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

One of my favorite things to look for at summer yard sales is vintage books.  My kids have been introduced to some of my childhood favorites, including Frog & Toad, Little Bear, and Where the Wild Things Are.  Charlie the Tramp was new to me this year, but it really reminds me of those wonderful old books I loved as a child. [Read more…]