Happy Homemaker Monday - 07/17/2017

Hello all! I hope you are all having a fantastic start to the week. In my area the day is wrapping up and we are going into evening time. I have been trying to get this post up all day but it has been difficult. I have had one thing or another come up, but I've stayed determined. LOL Better late than never. Just another Manic Monday I guess. I am joining in with Diary of a Stay at Home Mom. She posts a Happy Homemaker Monday every week, and you definitely don't want to miss out so head on over and check her out! If you decide to link up as well the link up will be in her post! :)

::The weather::
Hot, humid, and rainy. The weather has not been a sure thing for the last week. It has either been cloudy and cool, or sunny and humid with a sudden downpour! But it's okay. I am not ready for snow so I won't complain about the heat. LOL

::Right now I am::
Typing up this post and rushing if I must be honest. I wanted to get this done first thing in the morning, but my day just did not allow for me too. It has been one crazy hectic day for me with one thing after another. 


::On my reading pile::
Nothing just yet. I finished about five books that I need to get up for review this week. I have been reading when everyone else goes to sleep whenever I can. It's about the only reading time I get anymore unless I set an alarm and get up extra early. Although sometimes my kids hear me up early and they get up too which kind of defeats that trick. LOL


::Movies or Shows I watched this weekend::
This weekend was my birthday and we decided we would all go out together and watch a movie in theaters. I wanted to go see Transformers the Last Knight, BUT the theater we go to didn't have it playing when we were able to go since hubby had to work the next day. We had to make sure it was over early enough to eat and get to bed at a decent time since hubby gets up so early for work. SO we seen Despicable Me 3 instead which was pretty funny. The kiddo's really had a blast there so that was awesome. Other than that I have watched no TV other than catching up on some of my favorite vlogs like PhillipsFamBam, She's In Her Apron, Style Mom XO, Happily A Housewife, and a few others. Right now I'm not thinking well just because I have a lot going on in the background so I can't think of the other vlogs right off the top of my head yet. LOL I'm sure all you fellow momma's out there know just what I'm talking about. 


::On my TV::
Nothing tonight although I will be watching some more vlogs probably in the morning if I have time before everyone wakes up. Me and hubby have quite the day packed with errands tomorrow so it won't leave much time for too many shows. Wednesday, however, me and the kids are going to watch Moana on Netflix since we haven't seen it yet. If I can fit some shows in I'm finishing up season 8 on The Vampire Diaries Thursday hopefully. There are also some documentary's I wouldn't mind watching on Netflix as well.


::On the menu for this week::

Monday 
Spaghetti & Homemade Garlic Cheese Bread    
Tuesday 
Crockpot Chicken & Noodles (I need to post a recipe of it soon, it is so easy and delicious), mashed potatoes, and rolls     
Wednesday 
Beef Stroganoff, Tater Tots, and peas
Thursday 
Chicken Nuggets, mac & cheese, corn (busy day this day with more errands so keeping it simple)
Friday  
Taco's
Saturday 
Pizza out (we have a busy family day planned)
Sunday 
Chicken Roast & Cornbread


::On my to do list::
Since it's already late I have pretty much gotten all my chores done for today other than the after dinner clean up. So I will just fill you in on what I did get done today.
Kitchen- got all the dishes caught up, swept and mopped the floors, tidied the cabinets and shelves
Living room- Vacuumed the couch, vacuumed the floor, picked up a thousand toys (probably not even exaggerating here)
Dining area- Wiped down the table and chairs which I do after every meal anyway so 3x a day since my kiddo's are some messy eaters regardless of how hard they try to be neat lol.
Laundry- washed 5 loads of clothes (we were all pretty much out of clean clothes it was sad. I'm not gonna lie I have been terrible on laundry the last couple weeks because we have been on the go nonstop).
I also washed all the bed linens, vacuumed the matresses off, and all the bedroom floors and upstairs hall.

Tomorrow I will be cleaning the bathrooms since I didn't get to them today although thankfully (and surprisingly) they are not messy at all. I tidy up and wipe the bathrooms down quickly every evening just because...kids you know which really helps keep up with the bathrooms and takes me no time at all. Tomorrow I really just want to wipe things down more in depth, sweep, mop, and change the hand towels and such.


::What I am sewing, crocheting, knitting or creating::
I am looking for ideas on new chore charts for the kiddos, and looking to start a family command center in our house. Pinterest has tons of ideas, but if anyone has any suggestions please feel free to leave a comment below. Also I may look into zone cleaning. I seen it on She's In Her Apron and she says it has been a blessing! It's through FlyLady I guess so going to be looking into that.


::Looking around the house::
It's clean for now although I don't expect it to last that way long. haha. Give it a day or two before my tiny tornado's destroy it. I have candle's burning which I love! Makes the home feel so cozy and relaxing. I have dinner on and it is almost done so we will be eating soon.

::What I'm wearing today::
Black jeggings and a maroon t-shirt


::One of my simple pleasures::
Laundry. I just really do not mind doing laundry at all. I'm not a big fan of ironing a lot of the time. Sometimes I don't mind it, but as far as washing clothes, drying, putting them away. I really don't mind it. 


::Inspirational Quote, Bible verse, anything you want to share::

Wings of The Wind

::From the back of the book::
Motherless and raised alongside her brothers, Alanah, a Canaanite, is no stranger to fighting. When her father and brothers are killed in battle with the Hebrews, she disguises herself and sneaks onto the battlefield to avenge her family. The one thing she never counted on was surviving. 

Tobiah, a Hebrew warrior, has spent his share of time on the battlefield and is shocked to find an unconscious woman among the casualties. Compelled to bring her to a healer back at the Hebrew camp, he's unprepared for the consequences of what he intended as an act of compassion. 

In order to survive, Alanah must unite with her enemy. But will a terrible revelation drive her toward an even greater danger? 


::My Thoughts::
First off I would like to start by saying that I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. I am a huge fan of the Out From Eygpt books, and this one was by far my favorite. It is a great example of God's love, not just in general, but for women. I love the biblical history and how hooked I was throughout this book. This book pulled me right in and kept me there. 
I love seeing the characters journey's and all of the characters have so much depth. It is as if you really know them. 
It is a wonderful example of God's love, getting closer to God, and just believing in Him. A great reminder for everyone. I cannot recommend this book enough, and it would be a wonderful read for any book clubs out there. It includes discussion questions that I recommend answering in any book club or group. 
Definitely don't pass on this book. It deserves 5 stars and more.



::Product Details::

• Series: Out From Egypt (Book 3)
• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (May 2, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764218220
• ISBN-13: 978-0764218224
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.9 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces 

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own. 

NIV Kids Visual Study Bible

::Description::

The NIV Kids’ Visual Study Bible, for ages 8–12, brings the Bible to life in four-color illustrated splendor. This study Bible includes a spectacular full-color interior featuring over 700 illustrations, photos, infographics, and maps on every page that visually represent key Bible information. Each page also features important facts located near the relevant verse. Intriguing facts; colorful, engaging maps; photographs; and illustrations make this a Bible they’ll want to explore.

::My Thoughts::

This is one of my top favorite study bibles for kids. It is gorgeous, fun, easy to read and understand, and just so informative all around. 

Every page highlights certain verses and gives explanations. Not just that but on the side bar! So much more visual pleasing and eye catching versus the bottom of the page. This is the Complete text of the New International Version translation of the bible, and has important facts throughout. All of the photos, illustrations, and maps throughout are magnificent and eye catching. While this is geared for ages 8-12 kids of various ages will enjoy this. My almost 7 year old loves this bible just as much as my nine year old. I even love reading it! I would highly suggest this study bible for your youngster. It has greatly helped in bible studies around our house, and kids can more easily absorb what they read.

::Product Details::

Reading level	8 and up
Publisher	Zonderkidz
Publication date	June 6, 2017
Language	English
Product Dimensions	5.8 x 7.9 x 8.7 inches
Shipping Weight	2.2 pounds
Book length	1952
ISBN-10	0310758602
ISBN-13	978-0310758600

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this bible from Handlebar Publishing in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own. 

Hello Stars

::From the back of the book::

Lena Daniels never thought she’d get the chance star in a movie. Headstrong and determined, she has her life planned out to the minute. But when her best friends, Savannah and Emma, tell her about an audition, she knows there’s nothing else in the world she’d rather do. And now that she’s gotten her wish, Lena finds that being in the spotlight is harder than it sounds. She got everything she never wanted! Her face turns up everywhere she goes, and everything in her life is flipped upside down. Lena wonders if this is a dream come true or a horrible nightmare. Even a visit from her best friends during filming turns into a disaster.

With her little sisters—Ansley, Ashton, and Amber—and her mischievous pup, Austin, constantly at her side, Lena must face the challenges of everyday life while chasing her dreams of being a model and actress on the big screen. Lena tackles tough choices, learns the value of perseverance, and keeps her hopes high. She knows her faith and family will keep her feet on the ground and her eyes on the stars.

This Faithgirlz series entitled Lena in the Spotlight, written by Alena Pitts, star of War Room and tween blogger of For Girls Like You,and co-written with her mother, editor and author, Wynter Pitts, is a reflection of Alena’s own life experiences as she reaches for the stars and keeps her faith in balance. 

::My Thoughts::

This is a great book for young girls to read. It has a lot of great examples such as about prayer. It shows how to walk in faith as a young girl/tween, and is relatable for any Christian girl. 

Almost every young girl in this day and age wants a celebrity lifestyle. They dream of being singers, actresses, models, etc. Unfortunately the majority of examples out there are not exactly the best. This book sets a whole new positive example for young girls. 

The issues that Lena faces in the book are perfectly viewed and understood from a young girls point of view as well. 

This book also sets a great example of not just faith, but family love. The Daniels family supports each other, loves each other, and uplifts each other spiritually. 

All around a great book that any tween girl will enjoy. 

::Product Details::

Reading level	8 and up
Publisher	Zonderkidz
Publication date	April 25, 2017
Language	English
Product Dimensions	5.5 x 0.5 x 8.4 inches
Shipping Weight	5.6 ounces
Book length	176
ISBN-10	0310760593
ISBN-13	978-0310760597

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Handlebar in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own. 

The Chapel Car Bride

After a sheltered life in Pittsburgh, Hope Irvine is ready for a new adventure. When her father takes a position as a preacher in a railroad car converted into a traveling church, she's thrilled at the chance to accompany him. While accommodations in their new chapel car home are tight, Hope couldn't be happier putting her musical skills to good use and ministering to the people of West Virginia alongside her father. But when their chapel car arrives in Finch, West Virginia, they find a coal mining community that has hit hard times and is suspicious of outsiders. 

Luke Hughes works for the coal mine when he can, but the struggling company doesn't always offer steady work. When Reverend Irvine and Hope arrive in town, Luke is intrigued by what the reverend can teach him--and by the lovely and kind Hope. 

When Hope's desire to bring supplies and Sunday school classes to neighboring counties leads to her traveling with a flirtatious young mine manager, Luke is hard-pressed to suppress his jealousy. But when he begins to suspect the manager's motives are less than charitable, can he prove it without hurting Hope, or worse, putting her in danger? 

::My Thoughts::

As you all know I love historical fiction of any kind. This book was no exception as it gives a lot of information on ways of living for coal miners and their families. The poverty, dangers, and all around struggle. 

This book also keeps the Christian values that I know many of you appreciate while reading a book. 

I did wish the characters had a bit more depth to them, but it didn't discourage me from enjoying them or this book. Luke was my favorite although I felt he needed more passion and drive. Hope is very caring but also seems spoiled in many ways. Kirby is most definitely a spoiled adult child and I expected more suspense surrounding this character. 

There wasn't as much suspense as I typically like in these types of novels, but if you like a really easy going read this book is perfect. 

The author definitely did research so this book is rich in history, and the details are amazing. I always love the little details in books, and this book delivers. All in all I felt this is a good book to pick up if you want an easy weekend read, or just something more laid back.

::Product Details::

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Bethany House Publishers (April 4, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0764219057
• ISBN-13: 978-0764219054
• Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.9 x 8.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

God's Easter Miracles

:::From the back of the book:::

In God's Easter Miracles, the sea kids learn that Easter isn't about the Easter bunny or candy. It's about Jesus Christ giving up His life for all of us, and how we are to sacrifice ourselves for others. 

Paul, who is autistic, struggles with relationships, Jimmy doesn't want to share, and Lenny clings to life due to a terrible boat accident. On Easter Sunday, the children witness the power of their prayers. Their Sunday School teacher, Miss Linda, tells the children, "Truly, God has blessed us with many Easter miracles. Lenny was healed, and Jimmy asked Jesus into his heart." Even Paul has a miraculous change of heart. A true lesson of becoming more like Jesus is learned in this beautiful Easter story of love and grace.



:::My Thoughts:::

God's Easter Miracles, written by Lee Ann Mancini, is part of the multi-award winning Adventures of the Sea Kids series. It is a fantastic book for the littles, and would make an amazing addition to any home or church library. It is a great book to teach children about Jesus's love for us. There are many different great learning messages contained within the pages of this book. From teaching the important of prayer not only for yourself or others, but also teaching about compassion and friendship. We greatly enjoyed this book. We read it as a family and my children that can read on their own read it alone as well. It is more than just a book to read. There are little symbols hidden throughout the book on the pages for children to find, which makes it very interactive as well. The story flowed nicely and is very easy for children to understand which is wonderful. This is a book that far extends beyond just Easter, but has great lessons for everyday life. The pictures are also very well illustrated. They are nicely done, colorful, and fun. It will definitely pull your kids into the pages, and transport them. I can't wait to check out more books from this wonderful author. I highly recommend it.



:::Find this book at some of the following:::
Amazon   ChristianBook.com   Walmart   Barnes & Noble  




:::Product Details:::

• Age Range: 4 - 8 years
• Grade Level: Preschool - 3
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: GLM PUBLISHING (February 1, 2017)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0997332514
• ISBN-13: 978-0997332513

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book as a BookCrash member in exchange for my unbiased review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Happy Homemaker Monday 05/08/2017

Good afternoon all, hope you had a great weekend. I heard on the radio the other day how people always say they need more days in a week, but really we need more days for the weekend! LOL! How true that is! I have some exciting new ideas for the blog that I brainstormed about over the weekend. I will be doing a lot more hauls so those are coming up in the very near future.

::The weather::
Not too bad. We did have rain for 2 days straight but other than that it's been in the 50s & 60s but sunny. We at least don't need our thick winter coats.


::On my reading pile::
I finished Girl In Pieces (review will be posted this week) and I am now halfway through The Chapel Car Bride by Judith Miller.


::Movies or Shows I watched this weekend::
I didn't get around to watching much other than vlogs this past weekend.


::On my TV::
Catching up some missed episodes of Oak Island with hubby
Gotham with hubby tonight
Vlogs
Tomorrow a New show hubby found called Cooper's Treasure on Discovery. New episode comes on tomorrow at 10pm. Here is a summary:
COOPER'S TREASURE is a new documentary series that tells the incredible story of a legendary astronaut and the secret treasure map he began from space. In the 1960s, Gordon Cooper was one of NASA's original space pioneers, breaking the record for the longest space flight while completing a 122 hour mission. Sent to detect nuclear sites, it was on this mission he discovered something extraordinary that he would keep secret for over 40 years.

While in space Gordon noticed a series of anomalies around the South Caribbean and photographed over 100 of them. These anomalies were dark patches that appeared on his photographs of the earth. He believed there was only one explanation for these and thought them to be sunken ships, including the lost fleet of Christopher Columbus. Working for decades in secret, he created a map that he believed could uncover billions of pounds-worth of treasure. Before he passed away, Gordon shared his secret with his long-time friend Darrell Miklos in the hope that the exploration would continue and the mystery would finally be solved. Now, the one man Gordon trusted has the research and evidence, together with Gordon's map from space and is setting out with a team of seasoned explorers and researchers to once and for all accomplish his friend's long-held dream - to uncover the world's greatest treasures.

Cooper's Treasure airs Tuesdays 10pm on Discovery!


::On the menu for this week::

Monday 5/8
Baked Chicken & Chinese Rice w/veggies

Tuesday 5/9
Hubby's making his Chili

Wednesday 5/10
Tuna Patties, Mac & Cheese, Peas

Thursday 5/11
Spanish Rice, Fried Potatoes, Skillet bread

Friday 5/12
Crockpot BBQ pulled chicken sandwiches & Coleslaw

Saturday 5/13
Grocery shopping day for us this week

Sunday 5/14
Hubby is making me a surprise Mother's Day dinner


::On my to do list::
Monday - Laundry, general tidying up around the house today to straighten back up after the weekend.

Tuesday - rearrange kids bedrooms

Wednesday - meal planning, Make grocery list, more laundry, general household cleaning, book review to be posted

Thursday - normal chores and work on kids playhousek

Friday - errands

Saturday- Grocery shopping day

Sunday- Mother's Day. Spending time with the hubby and kids and my mom.


::What I am sewing, crocheting, knitting or creating::
I have been working in my adult coloring books. They are so relaxing.


::Looking around the house::
Kitchen is tidy as I just cleaned counters, loaded the dishwasher, washed the dishes that couldn't got in the dishwasher, and cleaned the living room.


::What I'm wearing today::
Workout capris and a plain blue t-shirt.


::One of my simple pleasures::
Being the first to wake up on beautiful sunny mornings. I usually read, just relax in the quiet, or even just have some quiet time for my thoughts.


::Bible verse, Devotional::

I am joining in on a link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom.