First Comes the Test, Then Comes the Lesson

In life, we don't always have the lesson first, do we? Wait, do we ever?? I don't think so. I think we always go through a tough time before we understand why. That is IF we ever understand the why.

My husband and I have been in the middle of a new lesson. Patience being a big part of it. Letting go of that idea that we can do anything without anyone else helping is another part of it. 

Last week, we started hearing something that resembled running water in the pipes. While nothing that requires water was on. Hmm that doesn't seem quite right, now does it? Of course we, the kids and I, told Dad when he came home from work. As well as having sent my husband a picture of a puddle that was in front of a door on our house. 

My husband had bought one of those cameras that you use to see behind the walls, that has an LED light and is flexible. We had gotten it to check on other plumbing issues, but now it was looking for a flowing pipe. No matter where my husband fed it through the wall though, he wasn't finding it. Next step was to drill holes in the walls. A couple in the bathroom. A couple in the hallway. Another one or two in the game room and closet. This is when I started to be concerned. He even opened up the air conditioning unit and found that there was a little pond under that! Well, now things are really getting interesting. 

Fast forward and I'm asking the church to pray for us. My husband and I are getting frustrated. With the situation as well as with each other. In theory, we should be able to handle this. On our own. But the more we look, the more trouble we are finding. All because we can't find the trouble! Then he reaches out to a friend in the church. That alone was surprising to me. Then he's asking me to get recommendations for plumbers that have equipment to find leaks under the floors and possibly under a concrete slab. Finally! We are going to get help. Ever want to suggest that to your spouse, but don't want them to feel that they aren't adequate because of it? That was me. 

To the Nextdoor app I went in search of recommendations. Our Neighbors never disappoint. I had a list of places to call within the hour. Unfortunately, I'm calling on a Friday. The soonest, but most expensive one, couldn't come out until Monday. The next in line, both in price and in availability wasn't until Tuesday. Great, a whole weekend of flowing flooding water under my floors. But then I got a notification. There had been a late addition to the list! Jose from Pro1 Plumbing. So I give him a call and catch him on his lunch break. He's willing to take a look, and only charge me IF he finds the leak for sure. He can come within the hour. I feel hope again! 

He shows up. He gets a lay of the house and how the pipes have to be based on where all our water fixtures are. I'm feeling pretty good about this guy. He calls his son and buddy over to help him in the search. They have to have someone turn the water off and on while he listens for the echo of the spray under the floors. He narrows down the area where the leak should be and then they double check to see where the water main comes into the house. All three of these guys are now digging in my front yard that has become a mud pit. I have two puddles now in front of each of my front doors. And he was able to show me water pouring over the slab. Part of the slab even crumbled as he pulled the mud back. 

My husband is at work while this is happening, so I'm having to text him and wait until he gets the messages through his spotty signal. I'm trying my best to keep him informed and also get his decisions on how to proceed. They are talking about needing to cut the carpet and roll it back to better hear the echo. I'm finally getting a price quote too. To find and repair this busted pipe. Which I now know is a gusher after having seen how fast the meter is spinning and how loud the sound has gotten. In my mind, I was determined to talk my husband into just paying these guys to knock this problem out the park. Get it fixed! They have the tools and the know-how. And I really do NOT want to have to rip up floors and tiles and carpet without knowing what we are facing. Not to mention having to possibly buy or rent the tools to cut the copper piping.

By the time they have dug the hole, it is already 4:00 and the heat is getting high. These guys are sweating and clearly tired. The job would take a least 2 more hours. Possibly more. So we all agree that it would be best if they stopped there and just come back in the morning.

Now, we fast forward to the morning after. We turned off our water at their request before they came over. We had moved everything out of the way of the areas they would need clear.

My youngest says, "It reminds me of when we first moved in!" She is so right. That had been my husbands assessment when he got back from work and saw all that the kids and I had already moved. I probably shouldn't have done as much as I did, which wasn't much at all, since my back has been acting up all week.

The guys showed up and found the closest point to the pipe they could get and had to cut into the hardwood floors that we have under the carpet. Then they had to get the ShopVac out and the jackhammer. Turns out, the pipe is under the slab. And the amount of water is incredible! They were carting out buckets filled. By the time they stopped, which was some time close to 5:00 I think, they had carted out about 25 gallons at least. 

Once again, I'm glad we decided to hire these guys. There is no way my husband and I could have done this alone. Even with help from our teenage sons. This is a massive undertaking. And we don't have the skillset for it. Our house was built in a time when they thought putting layers of tar and gravel under the concrete was the way to go. This is why the water is staying in place instead of finding its way into the ground. That, and Midland is mostly clay dirt, so water stays around for a VERY long time. But now we can see why the weeds in the front garden bed were springing up mercilessly! They were getting well watered by this leak. The plumbers had to leave again with the promise of coming back on Sunday. 

I was thankful to start putting our living room back in shape. The game room was near or over the leaking pipe and was quite the disaster zone. 

Then we had them here working through the day on Sunday. Only to find there was more than one leaking pipe! This house was built in 1952. Most of the pipes haven't had anything replaced since they were laid. We fixed one out front. And another popped loose near the front of the foundation. Then sometime, probably quite a while back, another couple joints came apart under the bathroom and game room. A sketchy patch job was revealed behind the water heater. And we were thoroughly ready to just give up. I'd love to have just curled up in bed and wished it all away. 

But we have had to juggle refilling water jogs to refill toilet tanks every time someone had to use the restroom. 

We have four kids who are tired of being trapped in either their bedrooms or the living room. 

Then came the big decision. Do we do a quick patch or do we actually re-pipe the house? A patch job won't hold. Not for long. So now, we are going with the saying, "In for a penny, in for a pound." We decided to have them move all the piping upwards through the attic! I'm glad we have a fantastically strong foundation with about 3 inch thick wood over about 3-5 inches of concrete, over a layer of gravel that was packed in, over a final layer of tar. This house shouldn't ever have issues with settling. Whoo! But they have to reroute the pipes upwards now. Yay...

That is what they worked on ALL DAY on Monday. My husband had to take a day off from work. We went without water, which meant having to purchase huge jugs and more bottled water to keep us going through the night and day. We kept the whole family in the living room to limit anyone getting in the way. The guys worked hard and fast, which made us happy. But it was hard on us all. Being confined in a single room. You'd think it was a zombie huddle. With spurts of activity when someone decided to do something. For me, it was incredibly tiring. Though I did manage to finish reading a book. 

Suddenly we think they are at the end of the job. Putting things back together. Cleaning up areas they were finished in. That is when another leak was found. They had turned on the cold water with no problem. Then they turned on the hot. And water spouted from another joint! I was  feeling pretty dead inside. Too tired. Too desperate for a shower. Just too much of everything at once! 

But as we were finishing up dinner in the living room, they were finishing up cleaning. They even repaired the holes in the wall, which wasn't part of the deal we made. They also repaired the drainage for my washing machine hook up that was leaking every time we washed clothes. I'm more than grateful for that! After all, my husband has been too busy to do it and the way he wanted to fix it was too much of a process. After all, engineers sometimes over-complicate things. I've been washing clothes since the plumbers left without any more leaking water! But that was all they did. I probably sound like those infomercials - But wait! There's more! They found out why we had this sewage smell sometimes. Turns out that the pipe that would vent sewage gases up out of the house, is cracked. So when the wind blows really hard, as it has been, it sends the smells right back in. Jose told my husband how to repair that when we are ready.

Time to think

I have been thinking a lot about the lessons we were facing in this. 

We had to let go and let someone else step in to fix something. 

We had to accept that it would cost us a pretty penny and possibly eat up the majority of our savings cushion. 

We had to 'rough it' without water. Again. 

We had to be patient with this plumber and accept that he has been working on the weekend and dealing with his family wanting his time as well. 

And for me, in particular, I had to accept that my weekend plans were effectively erased. I try my hardest to write my plans in pencil, but the weekend is the only time the kids and I can truly get out of the house and possibly do things. Not gonna lie, spending time at the park was looking really nice... But we couldn't do that. We had to be here for the workers getting things done. We missed church too, while waiting to hear from the plumber on Sunday morning. Not knowing when he might show up. 

I had my moments of doubt. Had moments of thinking we messed up in our choice of plumber. That maybe this was just a bad dream. No, wait, that was just my wish. And yes, even wondering why this was happening to us at all. 

But I will say this. There was so many things that were evidence of God's goodness. Things that I can be thankful and praise-filled about. 

1. Even with the water turned off, we could still use the restroom and flush the toilets. 
2. This plumber was no-nonsense. Honest and blunt with us. 
3. My in-laws weren't here while this was going on.
4. The prices we were facing, while still high for our income, were nothing near as high as they could have been. 
5. God gave us what we needed, included enough money to purchase extra water and microwavable foods to keep us going until the repairs were finished. 

There is a song by Micah Tyler called Even Then. I heard him in person once, and he explained the story behind it. The heartaches and trials his family were facing were still more than what we had here. Part of it says, "Even when the waters won't stop rising... You're with me even then." The waters were rising under our very feet. But God got us through. And sent the right person to fix it. 

Mystery Packs!

We love mystery, or blind, packs. One that we really enjoy is the mystery Minecraft figure boxes. Normally you would find these at the checkout lanes, sometimes in the toy aisle. We have quite the collection. But since the break in the supply chain here, I have noticed that they are not as readily available. In fact, Walmart rarely has them these days. So what happened when I was looking to get them for the kids this past Christmas? 

Creating the advent calendar

Each year, we have our family advent calendar. It has been two years in the running. I make it myself. Each day, starting December 1st, a family member opens a gift from the box that is marked with their day. I nearly didn't finish it this year. Each gift is supposed to be only a couple - $5. But I was having a hard time finding little things for each person. I went online, thinking that surely I could find what I need on Amazon. Crazy fact - those Checklane Blind Boxes? Out! As a matter of fact, my son ordered one with a gift card he got from a family member and I'm still waiting to hear when they come in stock. So I had to start looking elsewhere. And I'm so glad I did! I found a website that specializes in these things. Especially ones that you can't find in stores anymore. 

MysteryPacks.com to the rescue! 

I found this website called mysterypacks.com. They had so many to check out. I was mainly looking at the Minecraft TNT series 25 mystery pack. They had them for $3.99 each. Right now, they are sold out. But I plan to keep an eye in case they come back in or even if they get others. They have the Mob Head series ones in stock though. Those are $4.99 each. 

Does your kid like Disney Frozen like mine? They have the Mash'Ems Frozen series 4! One day I hope to order some of these for my daughter. She loves Frozen characters. And better yet, these make the perfect size for her dolls to have dolls. 

Same goes for the Spirit horse blind bags. These little horses are my youngest daughters favorite.  

I have been thinking I might need to get my sister the My Hero Academia ones. They are the keychain ones. 

I could go on, but honestly there are a lot! Nintendo, Hot Wheels, Zuru, Universal Studios Monsters, Barbie, Star Wars, Marvel and DC - you can find just about any kind for any collector. 

They also have some display helps for the building brick collectors. They have a case or stands for things like Lego and Mega Construct figures.

What else did I like about them?

Well, besides being affordable, they have a great selection. In some ways, better than stores. They were easy to order from. And they are really fast on shipping! I ordered on December 3rd, they shipped them on the 5th. I had them in my mailbox on the 12th. Most stores can't keep up with orders in December. So a total win in my book! But one more thing - they were having a 20% off sale! So I saved even more during one of the busiest sale months of the year.

The Adventures of Rockford T. Honeypot Book Review

 A new book has arrived for your perusal! The Adventures of Rockford T. Honeypot, by Josh Gottsegen is currently on sale on Amazon. This new children's book has a quote that I quite adore - "Here's to who we've become... and who we've yet to become." Actually there are several from this book I enjoyed! It is an epic tale of a young chipmunk who is coming into his own.

Check out the description below:

"As a young chipmunk, shy, bookish Rockford T. Honeypot had dreams of thrilling adventures across the forest. However, timid of danger and germs, his only adventures were found in books and in his imagination. When his family abandons him after a mistake that destroys their hazelnut business, Rockford sets off on a legendary journey beyond his wildest dreams. From exploring cuisines with a famous chef, training with ancient warrior monks, flying on giant hawks, finding true love, and much more, Rockford recounts his epic origin story of hardship, perseverance, and fortune."

Things I enjoy about the book:

This book is incredibly well written! I was surprised with the ease in which he was able to incorporate popular culture references, like "Live long and blossom". The nerd in me was giddy by that one. 

Even as an adult, I can relate to Rockford in some ways. I dream of adventures, but mine are limited to books as well. I grew up the loner. The weird kid that didn't fit in so well with the other kids. So getting lost in reading was how I found a place where I belonged. Until being abandoned, that is how Rockford got by. I also got many of the modern references. Though this book is about animals, they live just like we do. And throughout the story, you find that Rockford is going through his history. From the discovery of green huts (greenhouses) to DOS (computer lingo of older tech).

Sometimes we find we are in circumstances that force us out of our comfort zone and into great unknowns. I like this lesson for kids as they need to know they can adapt and overcome, no matter the situation. Take 2020, for instance. It has blindsided the world. Turned chaos loose. But little by little, we have found ourselves getting back to a sense of peace. He was thrown out, family gone, and not a clue what to do. But step by step, he got closer to where he wanted to be - even if he didn't quite know it.

I'm glad that it is also lightly illustrated. My children love to read, but my oldest son and daughter both prefer stories that include artwork of some kind. This one has just enough to keep their interest but not too much that they aren't using their imagination. Simple, yet adorable, illustrations to begin each chapter.

In the beginning of the story, you find Rockford T. Honeypot in his later years with his great-grandson. He makes a comment that rings with great truth, "Age is a privilege." I have seen so many from the younger generation that don't have a grasp on this concept. Personally, I see each new day as a blessing, not something to take for granted. Being older also means you have experienced so much more in life. You have accumulated a wealth that cannot be measured. A rich database of knowledge that can be passed on to others. Such a simple phrase, but it holds so much depth. This wasn't the only one, mind you. There are others. Things that make you think on a bolder, deeper level. I appreciate this. His ability to write these in without making the story difficult for children is a true gift. 

This book reminds me of sitting around the elderly people in my life. I could sit and listen to their vivid stories for hours! Their adventures gave me courage later in life, when I would think back to how someone I knew could be so strong in the face of challenges. At the same time, children will be able to connect to the story as they live through the trials with Rockford on his journey. 

I highly suggest this book. It was a pleasure to read and share with my own children!

I interviewed Josh Gottsegen and wanted to share it with you all.

What inspired you to write this story? 

In 2014, I wrote a children's book about a family who runs a juice bar in Tropland Forest with the intention to make healthy eating "cool." After completing three books in my "Joosh's Juice Bar" picture book series, I decided to dedicate a full story of another character in Tropland. As I was brainstorming ideas, a close friend of mine fell ill, so I wrote a collection of short stories for her while she was in the hospital, all of which had messages of never giving up in the face of any obstacle. During her recovery, I continued to write and developed, "The Adventures of Rockford T Honeypot."   I was motivated and inspired to write something filled with laughs, love, perseverance, and excitement for both of us. She is now 100% healthy, happy, and strong. 


I imagine that you must be an avid reader. If that assumption is correct, when did that love for reading begin? 

I loved fantasy stories at an early age, from Dr. Seuss's classic books to James and the Giant Peach, Willy Wonka, and others. 

When did you decide you wanted to be a writer? 

Growing up I've always loved to write stories. Throughout my academic years, I felt relieved when there was an essay for a test. I knew I had control of how to tell the story of my answer. What I love the most is the challenge to find the perfect words that express why inner thoughts. 


When you get writers block (if ever) what do you do to get out of it? 

The idea of writer's block is different for everyone. Writing stories can be challenging at any age. Of course, the most crucial aspect is the discipline to write without being distracted. I had to put my phone on "do not disturb" and try my hardest not to browse the web and to procrastinate. Writing is like working out your muscles; at first, it's challenging to start, but once you create a routine and motivate yourself in your own way, it becomes more comfortable and more rewarding.


What advice would you give to an aspiring young writer?

As previously mentioned, the hardest part is to disconnect from distractions. If you genuinely want to write, find comfort in your mind, work hard on the discipline to sit and write, and write what makes you entertained. 


And from the kids in our home, did your Mom make you eat vegetables when you were growing up? If so, what vegetable was your least favorite?

When I was young, I always ate on the healthy side. My grandfather was a bodybuilder and taught healthy eating habits to my mother at an early age. I grew up eating all kinds of vegetables without any fuss. I loved them more than sweets! Though I love them now, I wasn't the biggest fan of radishes when I was younger.  Now, my most favorite is to add radish slices on avocado toast! Deeeeeelicious!

"Live long and blossom. Cheers to both ears!"

Funky Divas & Dudes Will Rock Your Child's Summer!

Through my association with US Family Guide, I was able to get my daughter into a week long virtual camp with Funky Divas & Dudes. This camp was centered around learning dancing, but also gave her a chance to interact with other kids her age, play games and just have fun.

Who are Funky Divas & Dudes?

A group composed of various performance talents in Las Angeles, California that has a passion for teaching dance techniques to children. There is a wide variety of techniques that they have to share. They also offer party packages and after-school dance classes. Right now, with everything going on, they are currently doing everything virtually. As soon as restrictions are lifted, they will resume in-person events with safety measures taken to prevent the spread of sickness.

What do kids do?

All kinds of things! They warm up and practice dance routines first thing. There is a time for snacks, games, crafts, watching dance videos and talking about what they see, and on the last day (Friday) there is a talent show. On this last one, kids dress up as rock stars and perform the dance routine they have been practicing all week. They also show off a talent they have and share a comedic moment of a funny story or joke they know. Each session lasts for 3 hours. Each day a theme is chosen. Kids are encouraged to dress up for that theme with anything they have around the house. The final performance is recorded and a video is emailed to you. These sessions are geared for kids ages 4-11. Younger than 4 is hard to get on track, while kids over 11 tend to act like they are "too cool" to participate.

What do you need?

You need a free account with Zoom for the online meetings. Super simple to set up. Through them, you will get a reminder email every morning before the class starts. A printer is needed to print out some of the crafts or games they will be doing. My daughter made a fox and unicorn paper craft, a unicorn mask, played a bingo game (we used beans for the counters), and I printed the schedule to reference as needed.

How much is the camp?

Camp is $225 per week. It will be a Monday - Friday event, 3 hours a day. However, through the code below, you can get $25 off!

For $25 OFF use Coupon Code: CaliKidCamp
https://www.usfamilycoupons.com/coupon.php?regionid=75&bid=14515&dealid=4089 .@usfg

This camp is a great way to pass some of the summer. Especially with the Covid-19 pandemic keeping everyone indoors and isolated. This gives kids a chance to have fun, learn dance moves and interact with others.

Boosting Learning Power with BitWise Academy!

As a parent, I want my kids to excel in STEM subjects. I want them to do well in school so that they will do well in life. But where do you start in giving them an extra boost? Over the summer months, my son was able to try out BitWise Academy. It was a great start to learning coding.

*Disclaimer: I was given the opportunity to test out their website service in exchange for my honest review. I was not otherwise paid or endorsed. All opinions are my own.*

BitWise Academy was created with the dream of providing an easy-to-use platform for teaching real life coding and art skills that can be used in technological understanding and growth. They teach kids the basic programs that will start them down the road of success. 

As with any program, there are pros and cons.

The interface is simple to follow. You can keep track of the courses and the progress of each one.

If you have any questions at all, you can ask their AI assistant , Beem.

I love that it has a sense of humor with its responses at times. They also have a community that your kid can get support from. They can add friends and check forums for answers that will help them with their lessons. If that isn't what they need, there is an actual support option. Technical and otherwise. I like the various groups there are as well. A chance to chat and make friends while learning. 
There is also the Scratch lesson. Talk about an amazing beginning to coding for kids. 

For parents, there is a great way to track your child's progress. You get the full break down to see where they are excelling and where they need more practice. It is color coded. 

You can see what has been completed and what subject they spend more time on. 

My son is greatly interested in learning how to create games. However, I found that he would become bored after getting halfway through a lesson. Or if there were technical difficulties. 

Which leads us to the flip side...

At first, I couldn't get the class sessions to play. They would sometimes freeze up. Or would replay a lesson he had done already because it didn't recognize he had finished it. This caused him to lose enthusiasm for the program. 

Options for everyone's needs!

There are three types of subscriptions you can get. Which are currently on sale!

I think this works out greatly. Depending on how dedicated your child is, and how quickly they will work through the lessons, you have options for how long you want to sign them up for. 

What do you think? Is this something you would want your kids to use? What is your favorite aspect of this program? Leave me a comment below! 

Get Your Family and Friends and Astro Trash!

Back to school has kicked in. Families are falling into routines again. But maybe you need help to break the monotony? Time to fall in love with board games again, folks! This family friendly game is all about speed and fun. We totally enjoyed it and I think you will too. 

*Disclaimer: I was sent this game by Tryazon and USAOpoly for the sole purpose of introducing it to others. It was sent free of charge. All opinions are my own.*

This game is for 3-5 players, any of whom are over the age of 6 years. It is very fast paced. There aren't 'turns'. Its a roll until you've emptied your 'planet' of trash. But be careful to watch your neighbors. You don't want them to clean up their planet first! You keep resetting and playing until someone gets 3 trophies. Each round is about 10-15 minutes. This game is better suited to small parties or just family gatherings. That's the quick explanation. Now, let's break it down!

So how does it go? 

Quite simply, actually. Every player gets to grab a planet. They also get 3 dice each. The dice tell you what trash, how many and what to do with it for every roll. You begin the round by saying, 1, 2, 3, ditch it! Then you keep on rolling, following the dice and getting rid of the trash on your planet as quickly as possible. The first one to clear it all, gets a trophy. You reset the trash and start again. Keep repeating until one player has 3 trophies! 

Where can I get a copy for myself? 

So very glad you asked! Target and Amazon both carry it. So pick one up in the store or order it online. 

Who came up with this? 

USAopoly! They are the makers of other great tabletop games. Ever heard of Munchkin? How about Clue? Trivial Pursuit? They all came from the same parent company! If you liked any of those, you should enjoy this one equally.  

Want to see it in use? 

Check out my video below and let me know what you think! What is your favorite aspect of this game?

Peace of Mind Comes in Small Packages With Tchipie

As a Mom, I have had those moments of cold-sweat fear when I hear choking or other not-normal sounds coming from the backseat. Those moments when you want to swerve across several lanes of travel as quickly as possible to make sure the baby in the back isn't dying. It is rough! Thankfully, there are ways to avoid this. The most obvious is to not feed the kids in the car. But that isn't always practical when you are on a long road ride. So the next best thing is... baby car mirrors to the rescue! Like the ones that come from companies like Tchipie. 

*Disclaimer: Tchipie reached out to me and sent the funds for me to order their product for the sole purpose of writing a review on it. I was not otherwise paid or endorsed. All opinions are strictly my own.*

Tchipie reached out to me and asked if I wanted to do a review of their baby car mirror that is sold on Amazon. You know me, I don't turn down the opportunity to try out helpful products and share my reviews with you all! I purchased this mirror from Amazon. They are sold for $8.99 (price drop since I purchased it!). If you have a Prime account, they ship from the Amazon warehouses within a couple days. They are also eligible for free shipping if you order other eligible products totaling over $25 through Amazon. 

This mirror has several great aspects to be aware of!

1. Easy to install. There are 2 sets of straps. You clip the first set, pull to tighten. Then clip the second set, pull to tighten. Adjust for the perfect angle and - voila! - you can see whatever is going on in the backseat.
2. Large size to allow you to see more! The dimensions on this mirror are 11.6" x 7.7".
3. Adorable stickers to doll the mirror up. Kids love looking in the direction of pretty and colorful things. As soon as my toddler saw the stickers, she was SO excited. These are all her favorite fruits. So naming them made her happy while giving her something to do.
4. Amazing swivel capabilities. Mirrors need to move. They also need to be easy to move. So that you can adjust them for the perfect angle. And that is what this one offered. A 360 degree rotating pivot.
5. Last, but not least, it comes with a soft cleaning cloth. Keep this in the car and always have it on hand to clean the mirror and give you a clear view of your kiddo. 

So check out my video below and let me know what you think!
What other things are important to you when choosing a car mirror?

How One Book Can Make a Huge Difference in So Many Ways!

How can you help National Park personnel who have been affected by the government shutdown as well as the parks they serve in? While also promoting your child to read a book that teaches them the importance of our National Parks? I have the perfect solution: The Adventures of Brock Cliffhanger & His Jr. Park Rangers!

*Disclaimer: I was not paid or endorsed for this book review. I own a physical copy of one book and the digital copy of the other. All opinions expressed are my own.*

 

Mark Villareal has been writing for some time now. I've had the pleasure of reading several, if not all, of his books. Lately, he has branched into writing a children's series. One that teaches kids the importance of our National Parks. His first book in the series was The Adventures of Park Ranger Brock Cliffhanger & His Jr. Park Rangers: The Missing Hikers of Allegany State Park. Not only does it tell the story of hikers gone missing, but it teaches the importance of proper safety while hiking. Now he has written the second book in the series. The Adventures of Park Ranger Brock Cliffhanger & His Jr. Park Rangers: Mountain Rescue: Preserving Our Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Readers also learn about the parks in these books. The proceeds of this second book are currently being donated to the National Parks Conservation Association.

Brock Cliffhanger brings a legend, that is bigger than life, to a reality that inspires children. He is the mentor of two kids that became Jr. Park Rangers. Their love of National Parks brought them to the program where they learn how to pay it forward and teach others. I fell in love with their story at the first reading. And was quite happy to share it with my children. I believe it teaches valuable lessons.  Our youth will be the ones shaping and changing the future. What they learn now, will decide what they choose to do later.

Now, I will be sharing the second in the series with them. I just purchased the digital copy today! This one teaches the importance of careful camping and respecting the parks with our actions. The Smoky Mountains went through devastation after careless people started a wildfire. It affected so much more than the park, however. Future generations can avoid making those same mistakes if they learn how to care and pay it forward. 

These books are perfect for grades 1-6. Or ages 6-11. I read to my kids, ages 6-10. And they all loved it. We discussed the book and some of the important points in it.

But enough of my talking. Here is where the truth shows through in action!

Not Wasting Time on Tying Shoes This Year

If the first three months are going to be any idea of what the rest of the year holds, then we are going to be on the go a lot. With 4 kids, that means a lot of waiting on shoes to get tied. Well, it would. If we didn't have Hickies to help! 

*Disclaimer: I was sent these products through my association with US Family Guide in exchange for my honest review. I was not otherwise paid or endorsed. All opinion are my own.*

Hickies take the hassle out of shoe tying. Hard enough keeping track of their shoes, let alone in making sure each one is tied. My kids are 10, 8, 6 and 2. The oldest two really tried my patience while teaching them how to tie their shoes. More times than I care to recall, I had to stop and get them to tie their shoes or I had to tie them. When you are in a hurry, this makes things difficult. Or how about those cool super hero shoelaces that refuse to stay tied?? Oh yeah.... 

So how do Hickies help Parents? 

You slide these rubber straps in place and fasten. Then your kids only need to slide their shoes on. Voila! You are ready to go. They save you time and energy.  I chose the Red and the Black and Silver Metallic ones. Each pack has enough laces for a pair shoes. Depending on you lace yours up, you may even have some left over. 

Check out these awesome features:

Works in any shoe with eyelets.

One size fits all.

Elastic material keeps shoes secure yet comfortable.

Never tie again! Play is uninterrupted.

Fun look, without the messy knots and bows.

Adjustable tightness.

Quick and easy - simply slip on and off. Especially if you want to switch out colors to match your outfit!

Good for adults too! 

Do you run a lot? Do your shoes come untied sometimes? This will keep that from slowing you down! They include a guide that shows you how to use them in various styles so that you can wear them tight or wear them loose.

 Get your savings here!

Never tie, never worry. Get Hickies Never Tie Laces on hickies.com, with 20% off using code USFAM. 

Would you use them? How could they be useful to you? Leave me a comment below and let me know what you like most or what ideas you have for them!  

Pepper the Parrotfish is on a Mission and You Can Help! (+ free shipping for limited time)

I am a strong believer that reading is an important life skill that needs to be cultivated as young as you can. The desire must be stirred and kept going by engaging in books that kids not only love, but can interact with. Through my association with US Family Guide, I was chosen to review Pepper the Parrotfish children's book. 

*Disclaimer: I was sent this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review. I was not otherwise paid or endorsed. All opinions expressed are my own.*

This book is adorable! And it carries a great message. First off, it came in hardback (a personal favorite of mine). The high quality is very evident with its glossy cover and great pictures that match a friendly, but easy to read, story. The writer and illustrator are both locals of Colorado. Stephanie Enser and Mark Holly created this book to teach children the importance of caring for our oceans.

Growing up in Florida, I absolutely loved the beach. Sand between my toes, waves that could sing me to sleep and the sun overhead (that sometimes bit me hard...). But did you know that there is a creature in the water who makes sand? A very special kind of fish, actually. A parrotfish. They eat algae from the reef, keeping the algae levels at the right amount so as not to make the algae sick. But as they eat some of the algae, they chomp down on coral as well. After getting the nutrients they need, out comes - SAND! Yep, he poos it out! While he isn't alone in this ability, he does make the most of it. This easy to read book is geared towards 3-8 year olds, but even my 10 year old liked me reading to him.

What did my kids think about it?  

I made this a time to read with them so that we could interact on what they were learning from it. Of course my oldest thought the best part was how Pepper poops sand. But they all had something to say when I had a discussion after reading it. Check out the video!

Why is this book worth getting?

Besides a magnificent book that children can love and learn from, your purchase will also help with marine conservation. Pepper The Parrotfish is swimming to your door with FREE SHIPPING for a limited time only.

Go here to purchase and for more details: http://www.PepperParrotfish.com

Use promo code FREESHIP at checkout. And let me know in the comments below what you like about this book! Know any 3-8 year olds who would like it?

Color in Kids is the Perfect Gift for the Creative Kid! (+ giveaway)

I have been searching for things that make perfect gifts this Christmas. Especially things that enhance creativity in children. That is why I'm so very happy to introduce you to Color in Kids. More than a shirt, it is a chance to let kids be artistic over and over. 

*Disclaimer: I was sent these products free of charge in exchange for my honest review. I was not otherwise paid or endorsed. All opinions are strictly my own.*

I absolutely love things that give kids a chance to express themselves. And if they can do so more than once - well, even better! These shirts can be colored, worn, washed and the cycle repeated! There are so many styles to choose from. 

This Christmas and for all the gift giving events that follow - do you have a child on your list that has everything already?  Why get something they will be bored with after the first use? Speaking from experience, I have watched all my kids get something and be bored with it after only a couple weeks. This can be a toy they begged for, for months! But then came to realize it wasn't what they wanted long term. At least with these, they are practical and the kids can change it up after each wash! 
They also get to put their name to it. It is their own masterpiece, as unique as they are. 

Some even glow in the dark! 

As I mentioned before, there are plenty of options to choose from. Including glow in the dark designs and metallic designs.  My favorite glow in the dark shirt is the Rocket. This is the one my younger son chose. (It glows really well!)

 It is so much fun! As are the metallic designs. They have metallic silver worked in to add a cool effect to the designs. This one looked like so much fun! My older daughter picked it out. To her, it was pretty because it was "shiny".

My daughter was thrilled to add color to the sparkle, being the princess that she is. 

I came from Florida and have family back there, so these designs caught my eye as I thought of them! I still love the sea and the things portrayed from it.

 They are all so cool. Even I could wear some of these and feel fabulous! 
Remember to wash in hot water to get the colors out and create a blank canvas for the kids. I had forgotten and washed in cold (which is what I wash our clothes in normally) so not all the color came out. Plus, some colors like red, leave a ghost color behind when the kids push too hard.

But even so, it was light enough that the kids didn't complain. They said they would color over it and create new works of art! 

Little Miss Bedhead couldn't wait to color with Mommy this morning. She loved her "horsey". Something I hadn't realized, was that the cardboard that the markers was attached to could actually be used inside the shirt while the kids colored to make sure they didn't bleed through to the back. Just a helpful tip from the company!

Take away is, these non-toxic materials provide hours of fun that happens over and over. It promotes creativity. And by purchasing these, you are supporting a smaller business who supports great causes. My kids loved theirs so much, they have been asking for more!

What else should you know about Color in Kids?

They are US based. Local, durable and safe! That is their goal with the products they provide. They also support some amazing charities. 2 out of 3 are ones that I really hold important: American Cancer Society and Hope for Autism. Don't know about you, but I have met/cared about more than one person that has been affected by autism or cancer. I respect companies that seek to help in the research that may one day save lives with cures 

Want to win your own?

Color in Kids was generous enough to host a giveaway of 12 sets! You read that right, TWELVE, winners! So get in those entries and spread the fun. Encourage creativity while you are still able to.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Lucky Cat from Kidorable brings charm and warmth! (+ giveaway)

Hey everyone! I'm working with Kidorable again to showcase a new product they have introduced. The Lucky Cat design has been added to their inventory options! 

*Disclaimer: I was sent these products, free of charge, in exchange for my honest review. I was not otherwise paid or endorsed. All opinions are my very own.* 

What is the Lucky Cat? 

The Kidorable kitty who sparks imagination and style for your little lady! My daughter loves cats. Actually, both of my girls love cats. (My husband and I think they are broken, but we love them anyhow.) However, the Lucky Cat knitwear set is absolutely adorable! It's Kidorable! *buh duh tss* Too much? Okay, but really. My daughter struts like a diva when wearing it. She proudly shows off her love of cats, often while making kitty cat sounds. And in purrrfect timing! Storms are moving down in the south that are bringing us colder temperatures and soon - lots of cold rain! 

Christmas is close, but you still have time! 

I don't know what kind of weather you might be having about now, but it is not too late to get your own Lucky Cat items. For cold or for rain - or even for indoors! - there is something for everyone. And right now, they are having quite the sale. So if you are looking for a last minute gift for Christmas, or maybe even a birthday, you really should check them out! 
Kidorable has umbrellas like the one my daughter tried out. 

And the one a lucky reader won from my last giveaway I hosted. She chose the ballerina one. Her daughter loves the movie Leap and got hers in the mail the day she was watching a 1930's movie that had a ballerina in it. It was the perfect addition to her day! 

Quality and sizes are impressive. 

As a Mom of 4 kids, I look for quality in gear that I buy. As one kid outgrows something, there is a second-fourth child who may get use out of it. I take into consideration that my kids might be a little more rough on things than they were meant to handle. Kidorable products seem to withstand that challenge still, as I have seen so far. This shows me that they are high quality and will last a good while. On top of that, sizes can be tricky for us. My kids are on the tall size of the spectrum, which means longer torsos, longer legs and longer fingers. Yep - model material! So shopping for them can be... tiresome. As infants, at least two of them couldn't even wear the baby mittens. Their hands just didn't fit into them. So how well did the knitwear work for my daughter? Perfectly! I went with a size large and her hands fit just right. The hat also fits well, covering her ears from the cold. The scarf is long enough to not only reach around her neck, but even goes to her waist! I also like that the scarf can hold the mittens while out of use in a little pocket. It makes keeping them together while storing them super easy.

What else do they offer? 

Besides amazingly cute umbrellas that stand out in the crowd, and knitwear that inspire daydreams, they have towels, backpacks and rain gear. All of them being unique. And everything sparking imaginative thinking. They can be a knight who battles fierce dragons or a fairy princess! Items like these also give your kids a way to stand out. The designs don't get lost in a crowd. 

So, are you ready to win your own? 

What do you like most about these products? Do you know anyone who would love them? Well, now is your chance to win one! a Rafflecopter giveaway