Dimensions Frangrance

#freesample Not free, but discounted. I really like the Dimensions Fragrance diffuser and the way it works. It will stay on for 8 hrs, dispensing small puffs of fragrance every so often. If you don't turn it off, it will start back up the next day and go for another 8 hrs. I chose the Energetic collection and it's very nice. The ladies at work enjoy it and it looks nice on my desk. I think I'll try the Sleep collection next. I give it 2 thumbs up! #dimensionsfragrance #smiley360 #ad

Help a Friend: Memory Loss Quick Reference Guide Review

Help a Friend: Memory Loss - Quick Reference Guide

Joni Eareckson Tada

This Quick Reference Guide is just that - basic information that you need when you have a very limited time to learn as much as you can about memory loss.  I appreciated the detailed examples of some possible signs of Alzheimer’s and the encouraging Scriptures for both patients and caregivers.  It’s very frightening and frustrating when a loved one begins forgetting things.  Personally, I thought that my spouse was just being lazy because he suddenly couldn’t remember how to use a computer (something he’s done for years) and wanted me to type everything for him.  He constantly asks, “who is that?” for people he’s known for years.  Our children get tired of answering the same questions over and over.  Reading through this guide, I was able to gain a better understanding of some of what he’s experiencing and some insight into what changes we may be facing in the future.  The guide also gives suggestions for ways to create joyful memories with someone suffering from memory loss.  And I always like the “What Not to Do” advice because frankly, I just don’t know enough to know what not to do!  Overall, I recommend this helpful guide to anyone who may be experiencing memory loss in themselves or a loved one and for those who want to develop a ministry to helping patients and caregivers.  I was provided a copy of this pamphlet in pdf format and all opinions are 100% my own.

Book Review - 40 Answers for Teens' Top Questions

40 Answers for Teens’ Top Questions

by Gregory L. Jantz, PhD and Gregg Jantz, Jr.

I was pleasantly surprised by both the questions and answers in this book.  Questions run the gamut from routine puberty and zits conversations to heavier topics such as worrying about future success and life planning.  In asking, “Is it harder to be a teenager today?”, the author’s bottom line answer is “So why is it important for one person’s experiences to be considered harder or more difficult than someone else’s?”  I love that answer!  I also enjoyed the conversation about music (“Why do my parents hate the music I like?”).  The interjections from Gregg Jr. are applicable and relatable.  Many of the answers provided are ones I’ve struggled with myself - finding the right words to express my thoughts to my kids.  Dr. Jantz puts them in clear language that makes sense, is not “overly adult” or preachy, and provokes conversation from both teens and parents.  Anyone who deals with the mysterious preteen or teen (or parent!) will benefit from the insight this book provides.  It would also be a great small group or family study.  Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and will refer back to it often as my own two teenagers continue on their journey of adolescence.  I was provided a copy of this book in pdf format and all opinions are 100% my own.

Book Review

52 Weekly Devotions for Busy Families: Choose The Level that Fits Your Life Style

by Karen Whiting; Published by RoseKidz

Perfect for families desiring to grow closer to God and each other. Easy for parents to plan and prepare, fun and engaging for everyone. Starts a great tradition of memory keeping and valuing time spent together. Detailed Table of Contents is very helpful when you have a specific topic you’d like to stress with the family. Very clear and simple instructions on how to use the devotions, with plenty of ideas to personalize each to your own family. My daughter and I both like creating a scrapbook and illustrated prayer journal to document our devotion time. My son likes using a Bible app to look up verses and enjoys the physical activities that can go along with a topic. Devotions are flexible so you can shorten or lengthen based on the amount of time you have. Geared toward families with younger children but very easy to make more applicable to tweens & teens. Illustrations are cutesy but not overly so. Devotions are well written and really did spark conversation. I was provided a copy of this book in pdf format and all opinions are 100% my own.

Reese

Reese will be coming to his new home tomorrow!  We're all very excited.  He will be coming home on his 2 month birthday.  Here's his latest photo:

Say what!?

I can't believe I haven't been back here since September!  I'm a bad blogger.  Well, we moved and are getting a puppy!  Winter is almost over and we're all looking forward to Spring.  Here's a picture of our newest addition, Reese.  He will be coming home sometime this month and we just can't wait!

My first doggie ever - Reese!