Post contains affiliate links, which make it possible for giveaways like this one. Opinions shared are mine.

When I had the chance to read Sam’s Top Secret Journal: Memorial Day by Dr. Sean Adelman, it was a pleasure.  The books are thoroughly delightful on their own, but knowing that Sam has Down syndrome makes them even more special.  One of my BFFs has a daughter with Down syndrome, and she’s a big ball of wonder.  Her happiness is contagious, with those bright blue eyes and spirited play.  If you saw little M playing with a group of children, you’d quickly realize that she’s not set apart.  Instead, she’s completely one of the gang.  Like M, Sam is high functioning and ready to take on the world.  We all get to join her adventures through her journal!  [Read more…]

Post contains affiliate links; I received this book to review. Opinions shared are mine.

When author Joel Ohman offered to send me a copy of his books Meritropolis and Meritorium for review, I immediately thought, based on the book summary, that these would be perfect for my middle grade students.  As I learned more about the story, it became clear that this series is even more suited to the curriculum content. Deep questions about the impact of chemicals in our environment, or the need to defend those less fortunate, can stir up excellent class discussions. While the futuristic tale appears to be loosely based on ideas similar to that of Hunger Games or Maze Runner, the Meritropolis world is completely new to dystopian fiction.  Meritorium presents the same hero characters from book 1, while in a completely different scenario.  It’s exciting, adventurous, and totally spellbinding!  [Read more…]

FTC Disclaimer: **I was compensated for this post. This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Both of my children have birthdays in April, so holiday-themed candies and supplies are plentiful during that time. Don’t fight the system! Instead of trying to separate the party from the sea of holiday-colored items, make the holiday part of your plans.  If your child has a birthday in February, here are some affordable ideas to build a party around the Valentine’s Day products at DollarTree.

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Disclosure: These books were on my bookshelf to review. Opinions shared are mine.

A busy week makes me want to retreat in the pages of a good book.  Do you feel that way, too?  Here are some books I read recently that had my wheels turning.

The Case for Hope by Lee Strobel has the deceptive look of a gift book.  This padded hardcover almost looks like a Christmas story.  Inside, though, there’s a theological discussion that can be profound if you let it touch your heart.

Strobel’s case for hope aligns with his concept of doubt.  Rather than shushing the Christian who struggles with faith, Strobel allows for questions under an intellectual umbrella.  The first focus in this regard was the argument that Jesus’ resurrection was REAL.  By providing secular accounts as well as biblical evidence, Strobel’s interview was a valid presentation of the Christian belief.   His points are presented in preachable acronyms, which makes it perfect for a pastor’s library.  There were enough personal stories to make the book interesting, yet it wasn’t a memoir.  There were a few times that I wished he told more about the end of each person’s story, but it probably wasn’t relevant to his point. The book is small enough to finish in an hour or two, but the ideas will stay with you for much longer. [Read more…]

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

Imagine Disney Land — or Disney World, if that’s your thing.  Listen to the music, see the parades, and enjoy the rides in your  mind.  Now, turn that entire vision into Monsterland.  That’s right, monsters.  Zombies, vampires, werewolves…..even the token hunchback.  This urban fantasy trespasses into the horror subgenre in a sinister way.  Ready for a shiver?

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Disclosure: Post contains affiliate links. Opinions shared are mine.

Hello, and welcome to Savings in Seconds!   In the #Hello2016 giveaway hop, you’ll have a chance to get to know the linked bloggers a little better.  We’re sharing some fun and wacky facts about ourselves.  Oh…..and there will be some fun prizes offered, too.  Savings in Seconds readers, you’ll get to enter to win a $10 Amazon gift code.   Which brings me to my first fact — I love Amazon.  In fact, I order some pretty wacky stuff on Amazon.  Some of my favorite items I’ve found there — my snowing Christmas tree, and some awesome slap bracelets for my son’s school treat bags.  [Read more…]

You can start the new year with all manner of goals. When you look in the mirror to talk yourself into those resolutions, let a teeth whitening kit help you reflect a beautiful white smile right back!
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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which make self-sponsored giveaways like this possible!

My mom drew daisies when she doodled. I distinctly remember her teaching me how to draw them, too.  From then on, flowers were my doodle of choice.  In college, a friend always doodled ribbons around her notes.  My close-as-a-sister friend Kathy draws caterpillars.  It’s fun to see how doodles are as unique as a fingerprint.  To add a bit of whimsy to your winter days, why not draw some garden-worthy doodles?  The Botanical Hand Lettering Workbook is a great place to get ideas for perking up your scripts and styles.

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Disclosure: I received product samples. Opinions shared are mine.

In our house, grocery money is one of the biggest areas where money is wasted. I know we’re not alone! In 2016, try these 3 ways to stretch food money for your household without using coupons. Plus, enter this giveaway that will make it even easier.

Take your own bags to the store. 

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