Book Review: Food Triggers by Amber Lia

 

I love Jesus and I love food, but I want to love Jesus much more than I love food.  I'm triggered.  In her newest book, Food Triggers, Amber Lia addresses 31 triggers that plague our everyday lives whether external or internal.  She begins each chapter with a personal story and weaves a practical and spiritual lesson which ends with a heartfelt prayer.  I identified with so many of these triggers.  Amber says, "The spiritual tug-of-war to exchange unhealthy patterns with God-honoring habits is the ultimate food fight."  We do not have to struggle on our own.  Amber shares that these triggers are an opportunity for us to lean on our heavenly Father.  This is not only a physical transformation, but a spiritual transformation.  The heart of this author is to urge the reader to break those chains of food triggers and replace with God-honoring habits.  Are you ready for the journey?  

*

SALE!! Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner on SALE!

 

WORD just in!

The Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner is on SALE until November 9, 2021.

If you received my email the other day and are still having thoughts on purchasing the planner, this is the time to do it.  Save 20%!  Purchase price will be about $12.80.

Use coupon code:

SAVE20

Buy Here:   Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner

Code: SAVE20

Sale ends November 9.

Bonus: Free menu planning worksheets download 

The 2022 Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner

 

2022 Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner

Now available!

I have used this planner for years.

It has so many great features: 

Weekly layout

Monthly calendar

Yearly calendar

Shopping list

Task list

Project and Events list

Information

I use it to keep track of all my appointments, meetings, tasks, birthdays, parties, trips, school activities and everything in between.  It truly is a friend! 

Be sure to pick up your copy at this link: Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner 2022

2021 Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner

 2021 Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner

The 2021 Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner is still available.  If you are still looking for a planner for the upcoming year, I encourage you to check this one out.  I've been using it for years and it's been my favorite.  I'm always finding new ways to utilize it.

My favorite section is the week by week planning area.  At the top there is space to write the tasks to be done and then there are spaces for each day with lines.  The day and date are clearly marked so it's easy to find.  I like that the day is divided into 2 sections so I make one for morning and one for afternoon evening.  There is also a small space to write out your menu plan.  It's simple, but it's so nice to have a whole week on one open page layout.  

I am including a video I made this summer of the complete layout.  You can click HERE. 

(The coupon code is no longer available)

 

I have been having fun starting to fill out my new planner.  And even though this year wasn't exactly how any of us planned doesn't mean we need to stop planning.  There are still birthdays, phone calls, playdates (in person or online), tasks to do, food to make, etc.  

Also, when you buy the planner you get free meal planning templates.  

The 2021 Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner is $15.99.  Be sure to use my link.  Thanks!

Let me know if you are using this planner too!  

{I am an affiliate for this company.}

Thoughts on my recent social media fast

 

Hi, it's Shonda!  I'm here to share about my 40 day social media fast.

This past year has been tough.  I don't know about you, but I internalize a lot.  In fact, when I'm scrolling in social media, I take in so much information I can't hardly breathe.  Then I start to mull everything over in my mind and I become anxious and irritated with everything around me.  I cry out to God and I cry into my pillow.  I don't like myself very much.

And I was getting frustrated with all the time I was spending on social media and my phone in general.  So I got this random email from someone I subscribe to but rarely read and she said that she took 2 weeks off of Instagram and shared some lessons she learned.  She also said there was a setting on her phone to help her create the "pause" she needed from social media.

This intrigued me.  I thought, can I take some time off social media?  I know I've thought about this before, but didn't exactly know how to do it.  The addiction is real.  So I found the setting on my phone.  For Android it's called Digital Wellbeing.  In this setting I could limit times or eliminate altogther without having to delete the app.  I honestly don't want to give up social media, but I needed parameters.  So I set times on phone for certain apps and when they went gray that was it for the day.  I burned through the times so fast!  I still continued to be on my phone WAY more than I wanted.

Are you relating to my story at all?

Enter The 40 Day Social Media Fast book launch team invite!  EEEK!  I knew author Wendy Speake had done an annual social media fast, but I never joined the band wagon.  Then this invite showed up in my inbox.  I decided it was time to break up with social media for 40 days.  I honestly didn't know if I could do it.  I post multiple times a day and scroll over and over in all the pockets of my day.  It was going to be ugly or so I thought.  But God was preparing my heart.  As the day grew closer for the shut down, I grew excited!  I wanted freedom and time.  But more than that I wanted God.

The first few days were odd.  I kept going to my phone to check...what?  I actually did not delete or uninstall, but I limited the app to like 1 min so it would go gray as soon as I even entertained the thought of looking at it.  I also moved the apps to a different screen on my phone.  The main ones I took a break from were Facebook and Instagram.  My big time wasters.  

Each day of my social media fast I read a chapter in Wendy's book (The 40 Day Social Media Fast).  This was my grounding for the day.  I started reading more, being still, working on my memory verses, delving back into some Bible studies I had put aside, wrote in my journal each day.  It was such a feeling of peace to go through my morning routine and not be dragged down by the onslaught of information.I also unsubscribed from a lot of emails.   Now, don't get me wrong, I love reading about my friends, looking at pictures of what's happening and especially looking for prayer requests.  And while I lay all that down for several weeks, I thought about how to continue my connection with friends.  

I met a few new real life friends, I texted with several friends and I made spending time with family a better priority.  But most of all I was able to stop and listen to God more.  I am going to tell you that my life was not just Bible study and prayer.  Unfortunately, I did open up Youtube and I watched a few movies on Netflix.  I got caught up in a some Youtube drama and probably watched way too many videos of a new music group I found.  However, Wendy addresses these other distractions in her book as well.  I know that to be successful in fasting I really need to lay it ALL down.  

I share all this to say that fasting is a personal, private and spiritual decision.  I'm sharing to encourage you that if you think you cannot fast from something (that is probably your idol), then you need to pray for God to draw you close to Him.  I do notice that when I cut down the noise of social media or sugar or whatever is capturing my attention, I can really open up to God and hear Him.  

Blessings and love, Shonda

The 40 Day Social Media Fast by Wendy Speake Book Review

 

The 40 Day Social Media Fast: Exchange Your Online Distractions for Real-Life Devotion by Wendy Speake is book that challenges you to take 40 days off of social media in order to tune out the world and tune into God.  Each chapter starts with a title to discuss, a verse pertaining to the topic and Wendy's stories of how God has been shaping her through fasting social media.  At the end of each chapter is a prayer that Wendy writes to spur the reader to pray and seek God in that concept for the day.  She gives a basic outline for a digital detox that the reader can utilize to begin the 40 day social media fast.  Wendy pours her heart into this book to challenge and equip people to pursue God in a powerful and life changing way.   Each daily reading is a starting point to press further into God and farther away from the world.  She always says, "The point of fasting is always feasting."  

                             

I was both anxious and excited to review this new book about fasting by Wendy Speake.  Last year she published The 40 Day Sugar Fast and this year is The 40 Day Social Media Fast.  I see a theme!  Wendy has a unique and powerful platform to teach about fasting.  What is fasting?  It's "merely denying yourself something temporal and ordinary in order to experience the One who is eternally extraordinary."  She chooses what is hard to give up (temporarily).  When I saw this coming as an opportunity to be on the book review launch team, I took a deep breath and took the plunge.  I had been wanting to "stop scrolling and start strolling with God."  I just didn't know how I was going to follow through.  I wanted more than anything to draw close to God and give up my distractions.  I was so grateful for the daily reading that gave me hope for the day to release my hold on the temporary and reach for the eternal.  There were days I longed to post something or check on something, but as the days went on, I started rejoicing in my freedom.  I know that I could have spent more time with God which was my ultimate purpose, but I plan to do this again and even as I start to go back online, I have set boundaries to keep me from being as distracted as I used to be. 

Some of my favorite quotes (actually there were SO many, it was hard to choose): 

*"What the world values is of no value to God."

*"When you put your phone down, it's easier to lift your eyes up."

 

*"That which you turn to most often is what turns you away from God."

*"The best life is the content life.  When we have Christ, we have enough."

*"What we need more than the news is the GOOD NEWS!"

Find out more at 40daysocialmediafast.com or order a copy of the book on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3dGWKoE

Check out the book trailer HERE.

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book for review from NetGalley.  All opinions are my own.*

2021 Homemaker's Friend BOGO sale will end July 31!

Hurry, hurry!  The sale only lasts until July 31.  See below. 

The NEW 2021 planner is available + get a free 2020 planner with this BOGO offer.

 OR just get $2 off the NEW 2021 Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner!

This planner has truly been my friend this year.

BUY HOMEMAKER'S FRIEND DAILY PLANNER 2021

GET 2020 PLANNER TOO!

OR just purchase the 2021 planner with the same code.

Click HERE to purchase (see page layouts).

Only $15.99 plus FREE menu planning downloads

Special for my readers only! 

USE CODE:  BOGO21  for $2.00 off

(Comes to $13.99 for 2

OR $13.99 for the 2021 planner)

This offer only good through July 31, 2020!

Get your PLANNERS today!! 

(I am an affiliate for this company)

Check out my Youtube video (click on link)

2021 Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner + BOGO offer for 2021 and 2020

It's here, it's here!! 

The NEW 2021 planner is available + get a free 2020 planner with this BOGO offer.

 That's right you get 6 FREE months of planning for the prince of ONE!

NOW, I know it's been the strangest year ever and you think, I haven't used my planner and I don't feel like a planner will be of any use any time soon.  I get it.  

BUT, this planner has some features that might help to realign your thinking on a daily or weekly basis.

Every year I choose the Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner because it works for me!

There are so many great features wrapped up in this little book: 

*Yearly calendar with extra space for journaling

*Monthly calendars with a space to write goals for each month

*Weekly layout with places for task list, birthdays/appointments and menu

*Tasks list or whatever lists you want to make (I like writing down what I read, memorize, good recipes to remember, etc.)

*Projects lists for birthdays, house projects, business/ministry projects

*Other information like phone numbers, important dates, frequent business listings

*Tear out shopping lists with space at the back to write clothing sizes, gift idea and master shopping lists

*Double sided pocket for storing receipts, stamps business cards, etc.

Of course, one of the best features is the weekly Scripture verse which keeps me focused on what is truly important.  I plan to read it everyday during that week. 

There are a LOT of ways to use this handy planner.  I keep it on the counter in the kitchen, throw it in my to go bag or sit and pencil in plans and ideas. 

This planner has truly been my friend this year.  I ended up crossing lots of things off, but I also spent more time keeping tabs on what was most important. 

BUY HOMEMAKER'S FRIEND DAILY PLANNER 2021

GET 2020 PLANNER TOO!

Click HERE to purchase (see page layouts).

Only $15.99 plus FREE menu planning downloads

Special for my readers only! 

USE CODE:  BOGO21  for $2.00 off

(Comes to $13.99 for 2)

This offer only good through July 31, 2020!

Get your PLANNERS today!! 

(I am an affiliate for this company)

The Land Beneath Us by Sarah Sundin Book Review

The Land Beneath Us by Sarah Sundin is the 3rd book in the series Sunrise at Normandy.  This series is about three brothers torn apart by thievery and betrayal and each runs off to a different branch of the military.  While serving the country, they encounter many situations that bring them to learn to not only forgive their brothers, but also themselves as they culminate in their ultimate challenge at D-Day. 

Clay Paxton is the youngest of the the three brothers.  His girlfriend was stolen by one of his brothers, his other brother stole his money and he was left to help run the family business when he wanted to be a physician.  But a recurring nightmare draws him to enlist in the Army Rangers.  He bumps into the pretty new librarian at Camp Forrest.  They begin a casual conversation friendship.  Leah Jones is an orphan desperately looking for her long lost sisters.  She stays late many nights at the library until one night her innocence is shattered and Clay comes to her rescue.  Just before he ships off to prepare for training, Clay marries Leah for the sake of convenience and makes a promise to provide for her especially since he feels death is imminent as he continues to have this nightmare. As they begin their long distance marriage, they both begin to fall in love with one another.  Leah's search for her family intensifies and Clay's death dream gets stronger until he finally sees that loving Leah is what his future holds as he dodges a bullet.  But will Leah accept the love Clay offers?

I loved the conclusion to the Sunrise at Normandy series with this sweet love story.  Both Clay and Leah needed to learn the gift of giving love away and accepting love at the right moments.  There were many details I left out of my review as I urge you to read this book to see how the main characters find peace in the midst of a global war. 

Find more about The Land Beneath Us and Sarah Sundin here: http://www.sarahsundin.com/books/the-land-beneath-us/

*I was given a complimentary copy of the book from Revell.  All opinions are my own.*

The 40 Day Sugar Fast by Wendy Speake Book Review

The 40 Day Sugar Fast (Where Physical Detox Meets Spiritual Transformation) by Wendy Speake is an intimate look through 40 days of diving into what it means to desire God more than sugar (or any idol).  Each chapter starts with a Bible verse, then Wendy addresses a topic pertaining to her vision for the book, and ends with an honest prayer. Each chapter is filled with Scripture to meditate and integrate into your life as you dive deeper into knowing God.  This is not a once and done, but an opportunity to discover more of God in your life and how to fall more deeply in love and "feast" on His Word for spiritual transformation.

When Wendy introduced the 40 Day Sugar Fast group online a few years ago I jumped on board.  It was hard!  I love sugar, but I wanted to love God more.  Now that she has written this book with amazing chapters that keep bringing me back to Center, I feel that this resource was a catalyst and encouragement for me to really take to heart what God is wanting to teach me. Wendy's desire was to see women giving Jesus sugar (and anything else holding us back) and then Jesus showing up and giving Himself! What are you longing for?   I know that I will do this again and I'm excited to use Wendy's book to guide me along the way.  I feel like she's a friend chatting with passion and love holding my hand and giving me the confidence to pursue God right where I am.  Wendy has so many more resources to aid your transformation that are in the book as well as some special pre-order bonuses (before Nov. 5). Go to this LINK and pre-order now and claim your bonuses.

Bonuses include:
• Audiobook (read by Wendy) of The 40 Day Sugar Fast (available Nov 5)• Sugar Doesn’t Make a Mom Sweet download
• The 40 Day Fast Journal download
• Holiday Survival Kit download
• Decorative Prints + Scripture Cards download
• Bonus Devotional Videos by Wendy

Also, there will be a 40 Day Sugar Fast in January.  Please go HERE to sign up!

*I was a given a complimentary copy of this book for review from NetGalley.  All opinions are my own.*

A Distance Too Grand by Regina Scott Book Review

A Distance Too Grand by Regina Scott is the historical fiction story of young Meg Pero who in the early 1870's sets out on a survey of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon for the Army as the photographer taking over the job from her deceased father.  She longs to show the world her stunning photographic skills, but becomes deflated when she learns that the man in charge of the expedition is the one she used to love and walked away from many years prior.  Still Meg and Captain Ben Coleridge manage to work together despite their differences.  But Ben has an ulterior motive for the trip that he doesn't tell his other crew members.  When Meg and Ben get lost in the canyon wilderness after a suspicious fire at the camp, will they learn to put aside their past and make a new future?

I was drawn to this book because I love historical fiction and this time period is not familiar to me.  I loved the grand scenery described throughout the book as the Army made it's way across the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.  The apparent love gone wrong between the two main characters, Meg and Ben, captured me at first, but as the story went on I felt the interaction between the two to be stiff and did not lead me to believe in their romance.  Also, the book had a mysterious element that was not the main plot, but was supposed to carry the story along.  But in the end, it didn't seem to be wrapped up so that I could understand it.  Honestly, I almost stopped reading this book because it seemed redundant, but the ending was satisfying and it did contain many interesting references to instruments and photographic equipment used in that time period.  

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Reads.  All opinions are my own.*

Abide: 40 Ways to Focus on Jesus Daily by Tara Cole Book Review

Abide: 40 Ways to Focus on Jesus Daily by Tara Cole is book that gives the reader simple ways to come to God daily (and it doesn't have to just be early morning).  Tara defines abide as "to be held; kept; continually."  In her book she invites the reader to explore 40 ways to come close to Jesus in the daily walk of life.  She has divided them up into five topics: Abiding in the Word, prayer, community, worship and service.  She gives a few ideas for how to read this book such as taking 5 weeks and studying each of the five topics.  Every chapter begins with a title, Bible verse and explanation of the way of abiding with Jesus.  After each chapter there are questions or sometimes even work pages to "practice" the topic discussed.  Tara's gentle words of encouragement inspire the reader to dive deeper and find her own unique way of abiding with Jesus.  At the end of the book, Tara also adds 40 ways to teach kids how to abide with Jesus! She also includes a great list of resources.

I have been a Christian for a long time and I've developed my daily quiet time in the morning.  But I often go about my day with no thought of my relationship with God other than the few prayers I send up through my busy day.  I know that I want to abide with Jesus through my day and even if I don't get that quiet time I want to be able to connect with God.  I felt this book was simple for a new Christian and also gives a seasoned Christian many new ways to reach out the Father in daily life.  And I absolutely loved the section for kids.  Tara covered this topic well and gives the reader a fresh and new perspective on drawing near to God and abiding through the day with the One who longs to be with us.

Get your copy of Abide: 40 Ways to Focus on Jesus and snag these extra bonuses by October 22.
Early Bird Bonuses:

• Abide: How to Focus on Jesus - 5 Week Bible Study
• John 15: 4 Graphic
• Abide Spotify Playlist

*I was a given a complimentary copy of this book for review for being on the launch team.  All opinions are my own.*

100 Words of Affirmations Your Husband/Wife Needs to Hear by Matt and Lisa Jacobson Book Review

100 Words of Affirmation Your Husband/Wife Needs to Hear by Matt and Lisa Jacobson are two books that cover ways to encourage your spouse with words.  Each book is written by the opposite gender so that is like a mentor is speaking to you in your own language!  Matt and Lisa took a lot of time to discover what would make the other half feel love and affirmed.  They each wrote a book addressed for one to the husband and one to the wife.  They are very similar in format, but different in context.  Lisa draws the wife to find a lot of little ways to give her husband love through words.  She shares stories and goes into a few deeper details.  Matt is very succinct, but makes sure his readers get good words to give as gifts to their wives with his short and often humorous stories.

I would recommend any couple to purchase this bundle and make a practice of affirming their better half with words of affirmation, encouragement and love.  I know I would love these words spoken or written to me!  Take a step to improve your marriage this year and be a word giver.

Links:
*Matt Jacobson-https://faithfulman.com/
*Lisa Jacobson-https://club31women.com/
*Faithful Life Podcast- https://faithfulman.com/faithfullife/

These are two amazing people with an amazing story.  Be sure to check out all their resources and their podcast.

*I was a given a complimentary copy of this book for review for being on the launch review team.  All opinions are my own.*

Rhythms of Renewal by Rebekah Lyons Book Review

Rhythms of Renewal by Rebekah Lyons is a book that explores four rhythms that contribute to the path of renewal. The four rhythms are rest, restore, connect and create. In each of these rhythms there are chapters that examine different ideas to mold these rhythms into your life. Rebekah shares vulnerable stories of her struggles and victories. She wrestles with these rhythms until they become part of her life. She encourages her readers at the end of each chapter with reflection questions that would be good for personal study or in a group discussion. 
 This book made me think more about what areas where I lack and how to rise up and prioritize certain rhythms that will give me peace and joy in my life. I think many people will resonate with Rebekah's message as it touches many parts of the life that we all crave. I just finished reading it, but I will be reading it again and answering all the questions and taking inventory on my strengths and areas to improve.  I'm excited for my journey.  


Check out Rebekah Lyons at: https://rebekahlyons.com/

Take a  free quiz to find your strongest rhythm: https://rebekahlyons.com/quiz

*I was a given a complimentary copy of this book for review for being on a launch review team.  All opinions are my own.*

Catching Faith 2 DVD Review + Giveaway

Catching Faith 2: The Homecoming is the continuing story of the Taylor family as they navigate the dips and turns of  life by relying on their faith.  Alexa feels like the world is caving in as she steps into her dream job, but still has to care for her mother with Alzheimer's and her son has just lost his career while her daughter gets engaged to her ex-best friend's son.  Thankfully she has a Bible study and support group and her husband valiantly tries to help Alexa calm down and be reasonable.  As each member of the family goes through their trial, they turn to each other and to faith to keep them grounded and moving forward.

This movie was a good example of how life quickly can spin out of control.  But as the family in this story learned, not letting the circumstances take away your joy, but grow character in you, that is the foundation of faith.  Although, I did feel this family needed a bit more guidance and direction, I did seem them come together to celebrate life in fun and positive ways despite all the setbacks.

*I was given a complimentary copy of this DVD for review from Edify Media.  All opinions are my own.*

Giveaway:

Please fill out this form to enter the giveaway for this DVD.

CATCHING FAITH 2 DVD  Giveaway Form

Giveaway ends Sunday, Sept 8. 

Back Roads to Belonging by Kristen Strong Book Review

Back Roads to Belonging (Unexpected Paths to Finding Your Place and Your People) by Kristen Strong is a unique look at building friendships.  Kristen knows from the experience of moving that finding friends takes lots of time and energy.  But this book focuses on how to step back and embrace the role that God has designed for you and how to invite others to join you in that journey.  There are three sections to the book: Wandering, Finding and Inviting.  Kristen weaves stories from her life and others as she shares the many ways she has struggled with uncertainty, loneliness, frustration and disappointment.  But she also shares the positive way God brought her to new way of thinking, feeling and behaving.  Each chapter starts with a quote and leads into a personal story.  Then Kristen offers practical ideas for using God's Word to draw yourself closer to Him in this belonging journey.  And she ends each chapter with a traveling companion story and a belonging blessing. 

I must say that I chose to read this book because I just moved for the umpteenth time in my life, but since my last move was over 20 years ago, I feel like I'm starting over.  This book caught my eye because I desperately want to belong.  I have always felt like I have been an outsider.  And because my personality can be introverted, I have just thought I could feel OK, but not really.  Kristen's book really showed me my place is with God first.  When I have my priorities in order, He will help me to navigate friendships and learning to belong, but also having grace for myself and others.  I have to say, this book messed up my brain a bit.  I couldn't see how to take a back road to belonging, but by the end of the book, I felt Kristen was a sweet friend guiding me along a well worn path to a Place where I truly belong!

*I was a given a complimentary copy of this book for review from Revell Reads.  All opinions are my own.*

Boy Mom by Monica Swanson Book Review + Giveaway (ends Aug 11)

Boy Mom by Monica Swanson is a book geared for moms of boys so that moms can give their sons what they most need. Monica gently guides moms to look at the big picture and then breaks it down into areas that give suggestions in ways to teach our sons. Each chapter is sprinkled with stories of her own life, books that have impacted her and excellent ideas. There are also discussion questions at the end of each chapter. She dives into areas for character, technology, spiritual growth, influences, work ethic, relationships and much more. And there also is a link to a printable that is outlined in the book for various topics such as how to share the gospel, identity in Christ, boy approved food and dinner conversation starters, just to name a few. 

I have to be honest, as I was reading this book I began to feel overwhelmed with what area to focus on for my son. They all seem so vital! But as I read, I realized that I will just take it one step at a time and keep this book by my side so I can refer to it often. I am thankful for Monica's ministry and how she has used her knowledge and life experience to help other boy moms in their quest to raise their sons in the way of the Lord.

Visit Monica Swanson at https://monicaswanson.com/boymombook/
She also has a podcast too!!

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley for review.  All opinions are my own.*


Enter the Giveaway
Fill out this Form
Giveaway ends Sunday Aug 11


Giveaway Form

The DIY Guide to Building a Family That Lasts by Gary Chapman and Shannon Warden Book Review

Home improvement shows have been infiltrating our TV for many years.  But how can we use that concept to strengthen our family relationships as Gary Chapman and Shannon Warden share in their new book, The DIY Guide to Building a Family that Lasts: 12 Tools for Improving your Home Life?  Gary and Shannon take a home improvement approach to building a family.  Each chapter starts with a goal and tool, a funny story, real life situations, drawing up plans- ways to make the goal work, DIY- take a look at yourself and how you can reach the goal, All-In Budget- getting the whole family involved, Sweat Equity- summary of the chapter, the Big Reveal- how it should look, and Talk it Over- questions for discussion.  This book covers 12 tools such as kindness, gratitude, love, compromise, forgiveness, communication, trust, compassion, patience, getting organized, creating fun and building connection.  There is also an epilogue with a home maintenance section and home life inspection quiz.

This book covers so many great topics that are absolutely needed in a family.  For me, I think I could only focus on one goal every few months.  My favorite part of the book was the Sweat Equity section that summarized the chapter.  I thought this was a good part to read to the family and that everyone could get on board in a short amount of time.   I also liked the main goal and the tool to get to that goal stated at the beginning of each chapter.  It gave a good focus keeps the chapter spotlighted on the topic.  I would recommend this book to any family who struggles in any of the areas listed above.  This would make a great family project book.   

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Moody Publishers for review.  All opinions are my own.*


DON'T FORGET!!
BOGO offer for Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner 2019 +2020
ENDS July 31! 
Get $2 off with coupon code: 
2000719

Yours Truly, Thomas by Rachel Fordham Book Review

Yours Truly, Thomas by Rachel Fordham tells the story of a single woman working at a dead letter office whose letters from a man named Thomas pass over her desk.  Penny feels heartbroken for this man who has lost the love of his life.  She seeks to unite them by delivering the letters to his fiance herself.  But she finds out some tragic news and feels even more connected to this mysterious Thomas.  His words have truly touched her heart and she wants to give the letters back to him.  She goes on a quest to locate the young man and finds herself and her dog traveling from Washington DC  to a small town in Iowa.  Penny is unprepared to meet the endearing people of this sweet town, but becomes attracted to Thomas but does not reveal her reasons for coming to the town.  Some strange things start happening to Thomas and his new farm and Penny becomes involved. They form a friendship and become emotionally attached, but with secrets still between them.  When she finally reveals who she is, will Thomas accept her?

This book was a sweet historical romance that swept me back to a time with dead letter offices, community dances, writing long letters, boardinghouses and taking chances.  Penny was a young girl who felt things deeply and wanted romance more than anything in her life, but she felt stuck.  She had determination and spunk to to pick up and travel to a faraway place on her journey to finding true love.  This book gives a glimpse as to what a possible lost letter might give to woman searching for a place to belong.  I enjoyed this story.


Find our more about Rachel here:
Rachel's Website
Rachel's Facebook
Rachel's Instagram

*I was given a complimentary copy of this book by Revell Reads for review.  All opinions are my own.*

Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner BOGO Sale!! Ends Aug 31, 2019

Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner BOGO Sale for 2019 and 2020!!

Several years ago I was floundering around with a planner that I had printed off week by week.  I wasn't able to keep up with it and eventually gave up.  Then I discovered this planner from Sue Hooley known as the Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner.  

 Here are the features I love about it: 

*It's a convenient size.  I can slip it into my purse.
*The weekly task list helps me organize my to do list.
*I can record and see my menu plan for the whole week on the two page spread.
*I plan birthdays, cleaning projects, clothes I need, makeup brands, books to read and more.
*The tear out shopping lists are handy for recording my shopping needs and using for my grocery run.
*I keep a master list of shopping needs from my favorite stores.
*I can see a month at a glance.
*It's my brain and I LOVE it!

This planner has been such a positive impact in my life to be organized, productive and happy!

Recently I moved and this planner has helped me organize my new life schedule as my kids are now in school.  We've been having a very fun and busy summer and it's great to keep my running list of things that need to be done.  There are SO many family birthdays in the summer.  I also run a Podcast Club and do many book reviews, so this planner keeps me on task.  

Get your Homemaker's Friend Daily Planner

BOGO Sale for 2019 + 2020

expires Aug 31, 2019

Take a look inside: