Book Review: Have A Happy Family By Friday

About

You really can have a happier home in just 5 days!
Every member of a family plays a vital role in the health and happiness of the household. Everyone is important, deserves to be treated with love and respect, and needs to know that when they make mistakes they will still be loved unconditionally. And when every member of the family is pulling for each other and on the same team, everybody wins.

Is this kind of family life even possible?

Parenting expert and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Kevin Leman says it is, and he's ready to show you exactly how you can make it happen in your family--in just five days. He shows families how to

· communicate honestly and kindly
· prioritize the right things
· maintain great attitudes and behaviors
· determine the role each person plays in the family structure
· make family time count

As always, Dr. Leman's outstanding advice is laced with humor, great stories, and the wisdom that comes from a lifetime of experience.

If you've had it up to here with bickering, hurt feelings, and emotional exhaustion, Have a Happy Family by Friday is just what the doctor ordered.

Does any of this sound familiar?
· You're sick of the word whatever.
· You'd have a coronary if you ever walked into one of your kids' rooms and it was picked up.
· You remember way back when you and your spouse paid attention to each other.
· A good day is when you only send your kids to their room once.
· An exciting evening with your spouse is no yelling and no trips to the ER.
· You'd like to ground your kids for life . . . somewhere else.
· Everybody wants a piece of you, and there's nothing left to give.
· The only family member who listens to you is the dog.
· You spend a lot of your time wishing things were different in your family.

Well, wishes can come true. You can be on your way today to a happy family by Friday. Is it really possible? Yes! Embrace the truths and suggestions in this book, practice them, and watch them last a lifetime.

I guarantee it.

My Reflections: 

Who wouldn't want a happy family by Friday? For that very reason I chose to review this particular book, that and the fact that I love Kevin Leman's style of writing, and no nonsense philosophy. When we marry and have a houseful of children we tend to think "what could go wrong, we are family?" But add in different personalities, hormones, misunderstandings, and opinions and you now have the recipe for potential relational melt downs.

In this comprehensive book you will explore five days worth of food for thought and nuggets of encouragement.
The chapter headings for your daily readings are as follows:

Monday: Choose Your Words, Change Your Family. This chapter really hit home with me. I thoroughly enjoyed the reminder of how I set the tone of the family by the way I respond to situations.

Tuesday: The big time, priorities, Activities, Work, and Finances. Another great chapter, to the point and direct loved the tips on what to do and not to do in these areas. We are extremely busy with homeschooling activities so keeping the balance of extracurricular activities is a must! I loved the family first mantra in this chapter.

Wednesday: Navigating the Perfect Storm: Um... Yes please, can we say 12, 14 and 6. Perfect storm, enough said!

Thursday: Why Dad Can't be Mom and Mom Can't be Dad. Great, simply great! I was raised in a single parent home so often times I parent from a completely different angle, not to mention trying to navigate what being a good wife is all about and how to please my dear sweet husband. This chapter was wonderful because it really lays out his and hers. I especially enjoyed reading over the Q and A section. makes you realize others deal with the same kinds of issues.

Friday: Family Connections. Time together is a must in a deep and meaningful relationship, and often times our busy schedules prevent us from really connecting in an meaningful way.

At the end there is also a section titled "Ask Dr. Leman, brilliant!

Over all I would certainly recommend this book to families in all ages and stages. well written, it may take a little longer than Friday to change your attitude, (and possibly your families) but with a little determination and prayer, I know you can do it!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

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About The Author

1. 

   Dr. Kevin Leman

   Dr. Kevin Leman is an internationally known psychologist, radio and television personality, and speaker who has taught and entertained audiences worldwide with his wit and commonsense psychology. He has made house calls for hundreds of radio and television...
   

   Continue reading about Dr. Kevin Leman

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Book Review: The Berenstain Bears: Blessed are the Peacemakers

 From the Back:

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.”
Matthew 5:9

In this new Berenstain Bears 8x8 book, Blessed are the Peacemakers , Brother and Sister have a wide circle of friends at Bear Country School and they get along with pretty much everyone. But not all their friends get along with each other. Too Tall and his bullying gang, for instance, are often in conflict with Cousin Fred, Ferdy Factual, and their friends. So what happens when the cubs all need to work together on the annual school play? Brother and Sister have to decide whether they should “mind their own business” or get involved as peacemakers and try to calm the troubled waters.

My Reflections:

I have grown up on the Berenstain Bears, and in turn have enthusiastically read this wonderful series to my children as well. This particular children's book is written by Mike Berenstain (the son of the original authors Stan and Jan Berenstain)

The book has a christian theme to it, abet somewhat watered down and vague in its execution. This being said when I read it to my 6 year old she seemed to enjoy the book. When her 12 year old sister re read it to her the next night this older sibling had quite a few questions. One being the fact that if someone quoted scripture in the middle of an argument they were likely to be ignored or bullied as well, and very doubtfully would the bulling party be saying "oh cool", and move on.

The book opened up some great discussions on bullying and the different groups of people within school or social settings. We were able to discuss, in depth strategies to defuse tricky situations, and reference what the bible says about fighting and turning the other cheek. Although I found the book to be surface teaching I was glad to have it on hand to jump-start some valuable discussions in this very prevalent and difficult subject.

The back of the book lists activities and questions you can utilize to help your family work through the issue of bullying. Because our children will not be left unscathed from bulling, a proactive stance is a great way to prepare our children for the realities of living in a fallen world. This resource is just another tool you can use to empower your effectiveness in raising resilient children.

I received this book free of charge form Book Look Bloggers in return for my honest opinion. Thank you Book Look!

Book Review: What Your Heart Needs for the Hard Days

 

From the Back:

We all have days that make us want to pull the covers back over our heads and eat a dozen cupcakes.

Thankfully, Jesus said we don't "live on bread alone"--that includes cupcakes--"but on every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matt. 4:4). What we really need is truth.

If you're tired, discouraged, or feel a little empty inside, my prayer is that by the end of our time together, you'll be refreshed and nourished in a way that will sustain you through whatever the future may hold.

Remember, you're not alone, my friend.
In this uplifting book, Holley Gerth invites you to be filled with the strength, peace, and joy that come from God's promises. Each of the 52 devotions based on the Psalms will help you remember that God is good and we're all in this together.

This book is the perfect companion to Holley's book You're Going to Be Okay.

My Reflections:

When I received this book I dove in straight away. It is small enough to fit in your purse and encouraging enough to fill your day with inspiration and hope.

This book really spoke to me, it is filled with nuggets of wisdom. As I read this book I had the impression of having a good heart felt conversation with my BFF.

My favorite aspect of this book was the sections where you are encouraged to write down your reflections. It includes a prayer and space to add your own words, along with an additional journal exercise that prompt you to reflect on what God may be impressing on your heart. At the end of each reading there is a verse that pertains to the topic. Absolutely a wonderful resource!

I would recommend this book to any woman who would like a little encouragement to start the day. I will be keeping this one beside my bed for nightly rereading!

 "Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group".

About the Author:

 

Holley Gerth is a bestselling writer, certified life coach, and speaker. She loves connecting with the hearts of women through her popular blog and books like You're Already Amazing, You're Made for a God-Sized Dream, and Opening the Door to...

Continue reading about Holley Gerth

Movie Review: When the Game Stands Tall

 

 

 

This movie based on a true story, tells about a young coach Bob Ladouceur (Jim Caviezel) who launches a small high school football team to legendary status over a 138 game winning streak. This incredible feat tackled all American records in football history. The De La Salle High School Spartans were a team with heart, they played with intensity and passion, yet banded together to form a force that was unstoppable, until the unthinkable happens. This story shows the depth of the human spirit and how the bond of brotherhood can raise a generation to greatness.

Last night I had the opportunity to view this movie When The Game Stands Tall.

I must confess that I am not a sports nut, heck I don't even like to watch my kids play WII sports. 

 

I do however have to tell you that this movie is a must see for your next date night, or do what I did drive two hours with some great gal pals and have a girls night out. How ever you swing it, this is one of those rare movies that will have you crying, laughing, and rooting for the team..even if you have no clue about how the game is played.

 

This movie would be great entertainment for teens and parents to watch together as there is no swearing, or sexually explicit content. There are some potentially disturbing scenes hence the PG rating. Plugged in gave this movie a 4 out of 5 stars, and I concur. Great clean movie, I would love to see more directors follow this trend!

Thank you Graf-Martin Communications for sending me the two tickets, I enjoyed this movie immensely!

Directed by:	Scott Marshall Smith Thomas Carter
Produced by:	Cathy Schulman David Zelon
Screenwriter:	Scott Marshall Smith
Cast:	Jim Caviezel ... Coach Bob Ladouceur Laura Dern ... Bev Ladouceur Michael Chiklis ... Terry Eidson Alexander Ludwig ... Chris Ryan Gavin Casalegno ... Michael Ladouceur Joe Massingill ... Beaser LaJessie Smith ... Jamal
Studio/Distributor:	TriStar Pictures
Production Companies:	Mandalay Pictures

Book Review: Blind Trust

ISBN # 9780800722234

From The Back:

Kate's not sure how deep this deception goes--but she'll do whatever it takes to find out.

Kate Adams had no idea she was carrying counterfeit money and can't believe that it came from her sweet elderly neighbor. Or that it has landed her in the middle of another of Detective Tom Parker's investigations. Determined to prove her neighbor's innocence, Kate stumbles into a pit of intrigue far deeper than a two-bit counterfeit operation--and one that strikes too close to home for comfort.

As family secrets come to light, her world--and her budding romance with Tom--begin to crumble. To Kate, it's clear that she won't be safe until she uncovers all of Port Aster's secrets. But then will it be too late for her and Tom?

My Reflections:

Book two of the Port Aster series proves to be just as suspenseful and well written as the first novel written by Sandra Orchard. Just enough action to keep you flipping the pages and just enough potential bad guys to keep you guessing..who done it?

Blind Trust is packed full of twists and turns, you really are left on the edge waiting for the next shoe to fall. In this second book Kate Adams is in hot water again, charged with passing counterfeit money Kate finds herself ensconced in Detective Tom Parker's files once more.  The only possible link seems to be Kate's dear elderly neighbor Verna Nagy, but how could this sweet lady be involved? Kate is determined to get to the bottom of it all.

This book is definitely not a stand alone and reading "Deadly Devotion" first will afford the reader greater understanding into the plot and characters. This book literally starts from where the first left off. Be warned that if you are one of those people who love to end a book tidily wrapped up with a bow on top, this book ends partially wrapped and without its bow. I am eagerly anticipating book three to be released, the cliff hanger is just too much for this country girl to endure!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group". 

About the author:

Sandra Orchard

Sandra Orchard is the award-winning author of several inspirational romantic suspense/mysteries, including Deadly Devotion and Blind Trust. Her Love Inspired Suspense titles have garnered two Canadian Christian Writing Awards and a...

Continue reading about Sandra Orchard

Book Review: Miracle in a Dry Season

From the Back:

In a Drought, It's the Darkest Cloud
That Brings Hope

It's 1954 and Perla Long's arrival in the sleepy town of Wise, West Virginia, was supposed to go unnoticed. She just wants a quiet, safe place for her and her daughter, Sadie, where the mistakes of her past can stay hidden. But then drought comes to Wise, and Perla is pulled into the turmoil of a town desperately in need of a miracle.

Casewell Phillips has resigned himself to life as a bachelor...until he meets Perla. She's everything he's sought in a woman, but he can't get past the sense that she's hiding something. As the drought worsens, Perla's unique gift divides the town in two, bringing both gratitude and condemnation, and placing the pair in the middle of a storm of anger and forgiveness, fear and faith.

My Reflections:

Miracle in a Dry Season is Sarah Loudin Thomas`s debut novel, I can tell you she is off to a fabulous writing career! A charming story that tugs at your heart and fills you with the desire to ignore the world around you.

Perla escaping to Wise, West Virginia to her aunt and Uncles home is hiding in the shadows trying to shroud her daughter from the gossip, and mean spirited behaviour surrounding her status as a unwed mother to beautiful Sadie. Perla hopes her transgressions can stay hidden in this little town, but it looks as though things will not change much..

Caswell Phillips a bachelor content to play his music and create beauty from wood, is quite resigned to bachelorhood, until he meets Perla. Things quickly spiral out of control when his father becomes ill, and the drought changes his community for the worst. Caswell is quick to judge Perla, but soon feels remorse. Can he forgive himself for his lack of empathy and nearsightedness? What about his growing attraction to this woman, and her sweet child?

As the community endures a severe drought Perla does what she does best she cooks. Town-folk flock to eat from Perla's pot, but soon become suspicious over her "Knack" for making food stretch far past norm. The God given gift Perla is blessed with is misconstrued by the bigoted, intolerable people of Wise. Caswell must decide where his loyalties rest, and how he is going to handle the pain and confusion in his life.

This book is beautifully written, and I quite enjoyed the though provoking and inspirational plot. It was interesting to see how the author displayed the way the world can take a spiritual blessing, given by God to do his will and turn it around and try to make it something dirty and looked upon as evil.

This is the first book in the Appalachian Blessings series, watch for the next book to be released soon!

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Available at your favourite bookseller from Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group"

About the author: 

 Sarah Loudin Thomas

Sarah Loudin Thomas is a fund-raiser for a children's ministry who has also published freelance writing for Mountain Homes Southern Style and Now & Then magazines, as well as The Asheville Citizen-Times and The Journey Christian...

Continue reading about Sarah Loudin Thomas 

DIY : How to Make Your own Dandruff Shampoo

 Say Goodbye to Dandruff




Dandruff is a tricky condition to get rid of, especially if you want to avoid chemical-laden shampoo specially formulated for dandruff. 

The good news is there is an easy, safe and affordable way to keep the flakes at bay.

Simple and easy, smacks at my love language!

Supplies:

-Water:
-Baking Soda:

Mix baking soda and water to make a runny paste and wash like you would normal shampoo, paying attention to your scalp.
Rinse well you will want to get all the baking soda mixture out.

Use this mixture like you would shampoo, there is no need for any other product. Say hello to soft, flake free hair. Keep up this regime regularly to ensure that your scalp recovers.

I will definitely continue using this treatment for my DD who has chronic dandruff, it really works!I Costco sells mega boxes of Baking soda so that is a great place to shop! I store ours in the bathroom in a small plastic Rubbermaid container, with a spoon so that she can easily mix it up. Your hair will come out so soft and fluffy!

Blessings!

Enjoy!