Home Grown Hearts Academy Homeschool Blog

The Afters - Live on Forever ~ Review & Giveaway #FlyBy #TheAfters

2016-09-22T11:09:00.000-05:00

The Afters - Live on Forever Bio:

It’s easy to assume stories of trial and triumph are just for the Bible or the history books. But miracles still happen, even when adversity hits hardest. Just ask Josh Havens, guitarist and lead vocalist of The Afters. He relates how the band’s latest effort, Live on Forever, began during a season of tragedy.

Just as the band regrouped to record, Havens witnessed the wife of a close friend contract cancer. Drummer Jordan Mohilowski (who produced the new album) had a brief health scare, and a close companion in his church—part of the worship team—was hit and killed by an impaired driver. She was a young woman, Havens says, who had unlimited potential.

But Live on Forever–the band’s fifth with the Fair Trade label-still took shape as a celebration of faithfulness, protection and promise—one that shimmers with strong rhythms, undeniable energy and compelling pop hooks. The album finds Havens in strong, soaring voice as he invites listeners to find shelter and strength in God. “If any theme has emerged, it would be ‘inspiration and motivation,’” Havens says.

Havens himself felt a deep need to hold on after another loss struck: The band’s longtime soundman, Anthony Martinez, saw his newborn daughter die in infancy.

Ask Havens to pick out a song that sums up the spirit of the album, and he chooses “Battles.” “It was the last song we wrote and the fastest we wrote,” he says. “We don’t typically write songs fast; we’ll change lyrics and melodies and craft our songs carefully. But ‘Battles’ poured out, the music and lyrics, in one day. It’s about standing up against fear and knowing God is always with us,” Havens explains. “It’s one of the takeaways we hope people get: ‘Don’t give up to fear.

Havens shares how, half a world away from his home in Phoenix, he caught a small glimpse of heaven’s reassurance. The place: downtown Amsterdam. The occasion: a dinner between shows with band members and spouses—including soundman Martinez and his wife. For their baby daughter, the Martinez couple had chosen an unusual moniker with an unusual spelling: Pieper. Against all odds, it also happened to be exactly how the intimate restaurant they dined at spelled its name. Still, no one was prepared for what happened at the end of the meal. “We were talking about baby Pieper, and as we got up to leave, we noticed that the only thing on the walls—the only thing—was a framed document, an award for hospitality. And the date on the award—the only date in the place—was Pieper’s birthday. Her mother just started bawling.” Havens sums up the reassurance all took home that night: “We thought, ‘This is where God’s angels fly: right in the middle of the loss.’ God gives us little glimpses to show us he’s here.”

“We worked on this record for almost two years and over those two years, it was a real season of loss,” Havens recalls. “But in the end, Live on Forever is about moving us to trust God, to stand up against fear. It’s an ‘ante up’ record, an anthem for people’s lives: ‘God you are with me in all this. I’m not alone.’”

My Thoughts:

This Cd couldn't have came at a better time. It touched my heart in so many ways. I like what the songs stand for. At this time, I'm facing some hard things and the songs remind me not to give up and to always know that God is with me. It's something you think we would always remember, but the truth is, sometimes we forget. The songs remind me not to forget one of the most important things as I face my battles. My daughter also loved the Cd. She plays it everyday.

Social Corner:

To Purchase:

iTunes: http://www.smarturl.it/LOFAlbum-iTunes

Google Play: http://www.smarturl.it/LOFAlbum-GPlay

Amazon: http://www.smarturl.it/LOFAlbum-Amazon

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4sVbYL5y6d2nMX2H5LggGx

Get Connected with The Afters:

Official website: www.theafters.com

twitter.com/theafters

facebook.com/theafters

instagram.com/theaftersofficial

Music Videos:

Battles (Official Lyric Video)

https://youtu.be/MQJWT017Jwc

Battles (Heart Of The Song)

https://youtu.be/-7IXh-P_lnY

Live On Forever (Heart Of The Song)

https://youtu.be/t_qz_U0YbrY

Live On Forever (Official Music Video)

https://youtu.be/OdS7EWMNrWc

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Wise Guys by Kent Evans - Book Review #WiseGuys #FlyBy

2016-05-29T23:34:00.001-05:00

WISE GUYS:

For guys, more than ever, it’s a confusing world. Your GPS doesn’t offer any maps showing how to get to the point of wisdom — and who likes asking for directions anyway?

But there are ways to get that guidance you need. The answers may be all around you, in the form of guys you already know. Wise guys. More experienced guys. Better-traveled guys. Could there be ways to tap into their invaluable knowledge without enduring dull lectures or taking pages of notes?

Kent Evans has surrounded himself with these wise guys. They have shown him all the back roads on the way to wisdom. With a great deal of humor and an endless supply of stories, he wants to show you how to gather life-enriching truth from the guys in your own circle.

Chapter lessons include-

Figure Yourself Out

Encourage Relentlessly

Always Be Asking

Correct Gently

Learn from Action

Follow the Sprinters

Welcome Kindly

Exercise Tangible Grace

Finish Strong

Ditch the Cynicism (My favorite chapter!)

Ask Artfully

Know When to Let Go

Pray Spontaneously

Tap Shoulders

Command Calmly

Sign Up, Pitch In

Simply Excel

I love how each chapter includes questions to consider and tips. This book would be a great gift for any man in your life. It is encouraging and very well written.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KENT EVANS is the board chairman and co-founder of Manhood Journey, a ministry that helps fathers and mentors build the next generation of godly men. Kent has personally experienced how the guidance of godly men can change the course of a life. Today he is blessed with a solid 20-year marriage, four wonderful sons and a fulfilling life – largely because of what he’s learned from other men. He lives in Louisville, Kentucky, and can be found on Twitter @manhoodjourney.

~ SOCIAL – CORNER ~

Official Website - : https://www.manhoodjourney.org/wise-guys

Amazon - : http://www.amazon.com/Wise-Guys-Unlocking-Hidden-Wisdom/dp/193962228X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1460165778&sr=8-1&keywords=Wise+Guys+Kent+Evans

Twitter - @manhoodjourney

Want to Win a Copy?

~~To win simply comment below and I will draw a name~~

~~at random on June 6, 2016.~~

Good luck!

The Winner is: Sherri J

Congrats!

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

ESV Family Devotional Bible - Review #ESVFamilyDevotionalBible #flyby

2016-05-17T00:24:00.000-05:00

Does your family enjoy doing family devotions? My family recently had the opportunity to review the wonderful ESV Family Devotional Bible and we loved it.

The ESV FAMILY DEVOTIONAL BIBLE is a hardbound colorful Bible. It retells 130 key stories from the Bible with full color illustrations for each story, as well as placed within the Bible text where it is found. The stories are simplified and easy for children of all ages to understand.

The ESV Family Devotional Bible is designed to help families read and apply God’s Word together. This full-color edition features the complete ESV text interspersed with engaging illustrations and gospel-centered devotions related to key Bible stories—guiding families through the entirety of God’s Word over the course of a year. The Bible also includes colorful and kid friendly maps.

Each devotion also includes discussion questions and suggestions for additional reading, helping families develop a habit of reading the Bible together and applying its truth to all of life.

Want to Win a Copy?

To win simply comment below and I will draw a name

at random on May 23, 2016.

Good luck!

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

The winner is Rachelle Anderson! Congrats!

~SOCIAL – CORNER~

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CrosswayBooks/photos/a.129796233631.107576.71392238631/10154030140753632/?type=3&theater

Twitter -

https://twitter.com/crossway/status/718552505941041152

Amazon -

http://www.amazon.com/Family-Devotional-Bible-Bibles-Crossway/dp/1433551497/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1461101430&sr=8-1&keywords=family+devotional+bible

8 Simple Tools for Raising Great Kids ~ Review

2016-04-11T10:38:00.001-05:00

If you're looking for a new parenting book to read, 8 Simple Tools for Raising Great Kids is an excellent one! I don't know about you friends, but I could use all the tools and help I can get when it comes to raising my children. Let child psychologist and father Todd Cartmell walk you through the nuts and bolts of healthy, effective parenting.

Using examples from his home and 20 years of professional practice, Todd gives eight essential and practical tools to help you:

Maintain a healthy relationship with your child
Develop a nurturing home culture
Correct behavior in lasting ways

Designed for busy parents, 8 Simple Tools breaks each tool into five short chapters that include a summary tip and application questions. Use even half of the tools in your parenting, and your family dynamics will thrive. Your relationship with your child will be built on love and trust, providing you with fertile ground for planting God’s wisdom in their heart, and ultimately, seeing them flourish.

I loved reading all of the different examples that are included with the different tools and tips. The short chapters were perfect for me as well. I could easily read a few chapters a night, when I had the time, and I really feel like I learned some very useful and important tools that will ultimately help me grow as a parent and person in general.

One of my favorite parts of the book was the Summary of Tips that is included in the back and the notes section. The notes section provides a bible verse for each tool. I enjoyed looking up the verses and comparing them to what I was learning.

Do I recommend this book? YES, yes, yes! I absolutely loved this book.

50% Discount Code - GREATKIDS16

Free access to the

HEARTS AT HOME "ESSENTIAL WORKSHOP COLLECTION FOR PARENTS" with every purchase:

http://www.8simpletools.com/purchase-with-offer

SOCIAL – CORNER

Official Website:

www.8simpletools.com

Dr. Todd Cartmell's FB:

https://www.facebook.com/Dr-Todd-Cartmell-193405444025914/

Happy Easter!

2016-03-27T09:51:00.000-05:00

HAPPY EASTER!

Glimmer Girls Review & Giveaway #GlimmerGirls #FlyBy

2016-03-21T00:12:00.000-05:00

This review is on a two-book fiction series for 9-12 year old girls from award winning singer Natalie Grant. I have listened to and loved Natalie Grant for many years and was very excited to be able to read her books with my three daughters. These books have been such blessings to us.

Grant says: "Glimmer Girls is a fiction series that I have created with my daughters. The storyline is about three girls who go on tour with their singing mom. I have no idea where I came up with that plot! It’s fun for my little girls to help with the content because they actually live that life. Glimmer is the last name of the family, but it also has a special meaning. It is a light that is never extinguished. Sometimes it may glimmer a little bit brighter, sometimes it may glimmer a little bit dimmer, but it never goes out. I felt like that was such a perfect description for all of us. We all have a light on the inside and depending on the day, sometimes it’s bright and sometimes it’s dim. That is the message I wanted girls to get from this book. You don’t always have to be shining bright, some days are going to be more difficult than others, but Jesus has put a light in you that will never go out.”

About Glimmer Girls

Readers will join twins Mia and Maddie, and their little sister, Lulu, as they travel the country finding adventure, mystery, and mischief along the way. Together with their father, famous mother, singer Gloria Glimmer, and their slightly wacky nanny, Miss Julia, the smart and sassy sisters learn lessons about being good friends, telling the truth, and a whole lot more.

Our Thoughts

I was very delighted to have the opportunity to share these books with my daughters. The life lessons that are included are great for any child and I felt like they were especially great for my three little girls. It was fun to listen to my daughters pick which girl was similar to them and live through the characters as the stories went along. I felt like not only were my daughters receiving entertainment but also learning very valuable character traits. We highly recommend these wonderful books!

~SOCIAL CORNER~

Website: http://www.faithgirlz.com/glimmer-girls/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Faithgirlz

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/zkidzfaithgirlz/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zonderkidz_faithgirlz/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/zonderkidzfaithgirlz

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Good, Good Father by Chris Tomlin & Giveaway

2016-03-02T22:26:00.000-06:00

Have you heard of Chris Tomlin? I bet you have! Chris Tomlin is one of the top Christian music artists, worship leader, and songwriter who has sold over 30 million records. He just launched a brand new video to go with his song “Good, Good Father”.

My family loves the song and the video is wonderful!

Win a Flyaway to see

Chris Tomlin at Worship Night In America

Enter at the Link Below:

http://smarturl.it/WNIAFlyaway?IQid=pbn

****************************

Get "Good, Good Father" on iTunes:

http://smarturl.it/CTGoodGoodFather?IQid=pbn

MUSIC VIDEO link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlsQrycKKsY

Story Behind The Song:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zN_XJ1zyYnA

We all have a picture of who we think God is. When we get down to the foundation of what we believe, the truth is that God is exactly who He says He is – a good, good Father. - From Chris + Pat’s story behind the video

The Legend of the Easter Robin Review & Giveaway #EasterRobin #FlyBy

2016-02-29T13:58:00.001-06:00

Easter is coming soon and my daughters are so excited! We recently received The Legend of the Easter Robin to review. It was a wonderful story and one that I was grateful to be able to share with my girls. They had never heard the story before so that was a fun extra as well.

About the book:

In the center of the nest lay one perfect egg, the color of a spring sky. The father robin sat on a branch nearby, guarding his family. Tressa spotted raccoon tracks below and a blue jay eyeing the nest. “Gran, how are we going to keep the egg safe?” “We’ll have to leave that one to the Creator,” Gran said. Robins have built a nest on the window ledge at Grandmother’s house! Tressa is thrilled―and concerned. What will happen to the sky-blue egg laid by the mother robin? As more eggs appear, Tressa witnesses the daily drama of the robins’ nest and learns how God cares for all creatures. Besides watching the birds, there are Easter eggs to color. And there is a very special story to hear―a tale of long ago about one small bird with a very big heart. How did the robin get its red breast? Tressa is about to find out as Gran tells her the story of the Easter robin. Brought to life with colorful, tender illustrations, The Legend of the Easter Robin will captivate and teach your child about compassion and faith.

Age Range: 4-8 years

Hardcover; 32 pages

Publish Date: January 26, 2016

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

SOCIAL • CORNER

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

OFFICIAL BOOK TRAILER

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

Enter Below to win a copy

a Rafflecopter giveaway

GrubMarket Fruit Box REVIEW & GIVEAWAY

2016-02-03T11:15:00.000-06:00

About GrubMarket:

GrubMarket is all about providing accessibility, by delivering the following key benefits to their stakeholders:

Unbeatable prices: While many food delivery services and premium grocers cater to high-income earners, GrubMarket is committed to making fresh and delicious food accessible to all people by keeping their prices consistently lower than all comparable grocers.

Convenience: Through their reliable operations, GrubMarket is committed to providing people in food deserts (ie. areas without farmers' markets and fresh grocery stores) with access to high-quality, freshly-harvested items that they would typically find at a farmers' market or Whole Foods store. Additionally, they offer free delivery across the U.S. for all orders above $59.

Food Discovery: GrubMarket provides a platform for their partnering small farms and vendors to sell their items directly to customers. Many of these food producers have challenges getting shelf space at grocery stores, and/or may not want to pay the upfront costs of hosting farmers' market tables. GrubMarket gives these food producers access to tens of thousands of customers through a robust online marketplace, regardless of the food producers' production scale.

Let's be honest, fruit can be expensive at times and I'm sure we are not the only family that has made the decision a time or two to skip fruit because we felt we just couldn't afford it. We were very thankful to find out that we had a chance to review a regular-size California Fruit Bounty box. My daughter was even more excited when the box quickly arrived on our doorstep. We couldn't wait to see what goodies were included inside.

It was filled with apples, blood oranges, a pear, an avocado, Medjool dates, a pomegranate, a red pummelo, and a pineapple. We couldn't believe all the fruit that fit into the box. It was a blessing and the fruit was so delicious! It was the first time my family had ever had a blood orange. Those things are delightful! It was a ton of fun to enjoy fruits that we don't normally have access to.

GrubMarket firmly believes that you, your family, and your friends should always have the opportunity to eat well, and that price should never be a barrier between you and healthy, delicious, and freshly-harvested food. They are committed to providing you with the best grocery experience possible, by regularly offering you wholesome foods at wholesale prices. They work with a variety of farms and artisan producers to bring you high-quality foods and other items at prices that are up to 50% OFF what you'd typically find at Whole Foods and other grocers.

All of my readers can receive 20% off their first order by using code GRUB20 and free shipping on orders over $59.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

SOCIAL • CORNER

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

PINTEREST

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids Review & Giveaway #JesusTodayKids #FlyBy

2016-01-27T11:22:00.000-06:00

We like to do devotions as a family so I’m all about finding new devotionals, but it’s kind of hard to find something that my daughters all like. We were recently blessed with the opportunity to review Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids. This is one that all three of my daughters have enjoyed and continue to enjoy. I love how easy it has been for them to understand what they are reading. I also love how each devotion is based on Scripture and is written as though Jesus is speaking directly toward them.

Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids is not only filled with wonderful devotions, but is also filled with great Bible verses and wonderful thought provoking quotes. There is nothing better than watching my children grow in their walk with Jesus and this devotional is helping indeed.

About Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids

Jesus is the Friend who is always with you. Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids will pour this powerful truth into your children's hearts as they learn that He knows everything about them and loves them more than they can imagine. Each devotion is based on Scripture and is written as though Jesus is speaking directly to you, assuring that He is in control, that He is good, and that an amazing future awaits all who put their hope in Him. Adapted from the ECPA 2013 Christian Book of the Year-winner Jesus Today, this devotional has the same themes as the adult version, as well as written-out scriptures. It is a great choice for families to read and discuss during devotional time together.

Hardcover: 368 pages
Age Range: 6-10 years

About Sarah Young:

Sarah Young's devotional writings are personal reflections from her daily quiet time of Bible reading, praying and writing in prayer journals. With sales of more than 14 million books worldwide, Jesus Calling has appeared on all major bestseller lists. Sarah's writings include Jesus Calling, Jesus Today, Jesus Lives, Dear Jesus, Jesus Calling for Little Ones, Jesus Calling Bible Storybook, Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids, and Peace in His Presence -- each encouraging readers in their journey toward intimacy with Christ. Sarah and her husband were missionaries in Japan and Australia for many years. They currently live in the United States.

Connect With Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids

Official Website - http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0718038053/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1452613533&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=jesus+today+for+kids

Book Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zl-Qnlr5Rls&feature=youtu.be

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/JesusCalling/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/Jesus_Calling?lang=en

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/Jesus_Calling/

Google+ - https://plus.google.com/+Jesuscallingbook/posts

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jesuscalling/

a Rafflecopter giveaway

FREE Martin Luther King, Jr. Resources & FREE Printable

2016-01-18T15:46:00.000-06:00

FREE Martin Luther King, Jr. Resources

I Have a Dream Worksheet

Martin Luther King Jr. Timeline Printable

Dr Martin Luther King Cloze

BrainPop - Martin Luther King Jr - Video

BrainPop - Lesson Ideas

Teaching Heart's Martin Luther King Day Ideas

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Free Presentations in PowerPoint format

FREE Martin Luther King Directed Drawing

Martin Luther King, Jr. Dream Speech & Activities - (8th Grade and Older)

LEARNING ABOUT DR. KING (FREE COPYWORK DOWNLOAD)

Click to Download and Print our FREE I Have A Dream Printable

Books About Martin Luther King, Jr.

Clipart Source: http://www.clipartbest.com/clipart-KTjRGyGTq

Benjamin Franklin FREE Homeschool Resources

2016-01-17T09:30:00.000-06:00

January 17th was the day Benjamin Franklin was born

The below collection of resources is designed to help parents and students learn more about the life and times of Benjamin Franklin.

FREE Benjamin Franklin Resources

Benjamin Franklin Lapbook

Benjamin Franklin Lesson Ideas

Benjamin Franklin Unit Study

A realistic printable 100 dollar bill with the face of Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin - Wikipedia

Benjamin Franklin coloring page

Ben Franklin Notebooking Pages

Inventor Notebook Pages - Benjamin Franklin

Famous American People – Ben Franklin Notebooking

Benjamin Franklin: American Inventor

Timeline of Ben's Life

Ben Franklin - PBS

Benjamin Franklin: “America’s First Great Man”

How to Draw Benjamin Franklin

Time Out for Benjamin Franklin

Autobiography of Ben Franklin

Books About Benjamin Franklin

Clipart Source: http://www.clipartlord.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/benjamin-franklin.png

Favorite Homeschool Resources Picked by Homeschoolers

2016-01-14T09:39:00.000-06:00

No matter what may be on your lesson plan for 2016, consider the resources below. Members within the Educents community put a list together of their favorite homeschool resources. If you'd like to learn more about the resource, just click the link! If you want to get more involved in the Educents community to learn more about homeschooling and the curriculum offered on Educents, join the Educents Facebook group!

Emily of Smith Squad recommends the Life of Fred books.

“As a child, I always hated math, even though I was good at it because it was soon boring. When I heard about Fred, I knew he had to be a part of our homeschool. My kids absolutely LOVE when it’s math time, and they are learning a ton about how to apply math to every day practical situations.”

Lisa Marie of The Canadian Homeschooler uses the Writecraft and Mathcraft Units.

"The writing portion of this resource was the first time EVER that my oldest son ever willing wrote anything! He was excited to write instead of hating it."

Allison of Just Add Coffee loves the Magic School Bus Science Experiments.

“I absolutely love Magic School bus and all it has to offer. Each month you get a different science kit to take a Magic School Bus adventure. If you search really hard, online you can even find curriculum to go with each science kit and the episode from the television series.”

Lisa of Chickens and Bunnies Homeschool loves the Life of Fred Elementary Books.

“My favorite resource at Educents at the moment is Life of Fred. There are so many to choose from I picked the Elementary Series. My kids love these books; we have them up to high school now. My most recent order was Life of Fred Chemistry. My kids will do these without arguing and love Fred and Kingie!”

Celena of The Traveling Sisterhood recommends the Times Tales Multiplication videos.

"I love Times Tales because it's made this year's math lessons so much easier! My kiddos quickly mastered their multiplication tables in one sitting with the movie. It's been such a blessing--instead of drills everyday, we can take more time to learn the actual concepts behind the facts!"

Kelly of Raising Samuels loves the Magic School Bus Science Club.

“The Magic School Bus Science Club is something your child gets in the mail each month, for a year! It includes numerous experiments per month, along with most of the materials required. (except household items such as scissors and tape). It is an incredible hands-on learning experience that helps children love science and have fun! My sons who are 4 and 6 absolutely love it!”

Amy of Busy Boys Brigade recommends the Life of Fred Beginning Readers.

“Life of Fred Early Readers series has been a game changer in our homeschool! Both my 6 & 4-year-old boys beg me to do their reading lessons now that we have added Life of Fred. I have noticed an increase in their fluency and comprehension.”

Jenn of Chaotic Bliss Homeschooling also loves Times Tales.

"All three of my girls, ages 8 down to 4 loved watching this DVD and learning the stories. In 1 hour, both of my older girls had memorized their upper times tables! And the real kicker is I was only trying to teach one!"

Amy of Teaching in Blue Jeans uses Learn to Mod Minecraft with her son.

"Learn to Mod Minecraft is an amazing program that teaches my son, a Minecraft lover, important computer programming skills through a game he loves to play. The lessons are easy to use, fun and engaging. I love that he is a learning a skill that I am not able to teach him."

Tabitha of Life Learning Homeschool uses the King Tut Mini Unit.

“My son loves history (he gets it from me), and I love to throw in “extras” to feed the need for more than what our curriculum calls for. Mini-units are great for that, and this was one of our favorites because we both love Ancient Egypt!”

Amy from Not Your Average Homeschool Mom loves Minecraft Mod Design.

“I love that you can be totally creative, and these are all hands-on. Helps to build critical thinking skills too.”

Kayla of The Arrowood Zoo loves using Magformers for lessons at home.

"I love that you can be totally creative and these are all hands-on. Helps to build critical thinking skills too."

Shelly of Free Homeschooling 101 recommends the Violin Starter Set.

"The violin starter set includes everything a budding violinist needs to begin their studies. The instrument is well made and economical. The lessons that are included are a huge money saver!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=miJXCpi20DU

Rebecca of Hip Homeschooling likes Magformers.

“We LOVE Magformers in our homeschool! They are a high-quality toy that provide hours of creative play. They are a great way to bring the fun back into your homeschool; your kids won’t even realize they are learning all about structures and geometric shapes and architecture (bonus!).”

Teri of Mommy Wife Life recommends the Spectacula r Space Unit Study.

“A great resource for young astronomers is the Spectacular Space Unit Study. From writing, reading, math, and crafts, this complete unit, with its simple terms, will spark the interest of even your preschoolers!”

Jamie of Simple Homeschool loves Life of Fred too!

“I love the way the math is naturally integrated into Fred’s life, showing the importance of it in day-to-day life. The chapters are laugh-out-loud funny, and I often get asked to read “just one more.” I’ve never been a huge fan of math workbooks and worksheets, so the combination of math and story is a major win in my books!”

Gabriella, Homeschooling Consultant, recommends the Number Formation Poems.

“We have these cards laminated because we know they’ll be used for years to come. My son, who learns best through rhyme and tactile input, is learning to write digits using these easy-to-remember number formation poems! I have reduced the size of the cards, added a ring binder, and now have a portable number set. We also use the cards for matching games and learning about quantity. Such a great price for all of the value provided by this set.”

What homeschool resource did you use this year that you would recommend?

Leave your recommendation in the comments!!

Captive DVD Review and Giveaway #CaptiveMovie #FlyBy

2016-01-13T10:34:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends, I was recently blessed with an opportunity to review the DVD, Captive. I was so excited to review it because I had just recently read the book. The book was wonderful and I just knew the movie would compliment it perfectly. I was so right. The movie was awesome!

Many people probably remember the headlines of the escape, manhunt and capture of a man named, Brian Nichols. What we didn't know before the book and movie was what happened in the hours following his escape and then his eventual capture. Captive brings to light how faith and a chance encounter can change lives forever.

Based on a miraculous story about the power of faith, Captive is an "amazing, inspiring" drama about the spiritual collision of two lost souls, Brian Nichols (Golden Globe Nominee David Oyelowo), on the run from police and desperate to make contact with his newborn son, takes recently widowed mother Ashley Smith (Kata Mara) hostage in her own apartment. Fearing for her life and desperately hoping to see her daughter again, she turns to Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Life for guidance. Ashley and her captor face a crossroads where they discover hope and light in the midst of despair in the moving film that Dick Rolfe, CEO, Dove Foundation hailed as "powerful."

As I watched the story I couldn't help but think how we don't have to be perfect or all put together for God to use us. To use us in ways that are incredible.

DVD Release Date: January 5, 2016

Runtime: 96 minutes

Rating: PG-13 (for mature thematic elements involving violence and substance abuse)

There are over 30 minutes of bonus content on this DVD including Journey Through Darkness: Filming Captive and Faith and The Purpose Driven Life. Also included with this DVD is a Digital HD copy that can be instantly streamed and downloaded.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Connect:

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

The Plans I Have For You Devotional & Journal Review & Giveaway #PlansIHave #FLYBY

2016-01-11T15:48:00.000-06:00

About The Plans I Have For You Devotional:

The devotional is an illustrated 90-day devotional written by bestselling children's book author Amy Parker and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, teaching and inspiring kids to dream about their future, to focus on faith, love, and joy, and recognize that God has a plan and purpose for each and every one of us.

Hardcover; 160 pages

Age Range: 8-12 years

About The Plans I Have For You Journal:

The journal prompts creative thinking and exploration of the talents and personalities that make us special, and then helps explore how God may use our unique traits to spread love and joy and make the world a better place.

Stationery; 208 pages
Age Range: 11-14 years

Our Thoughts:

My 12 year old daughter fell in love with both the devotional and the journal the day they arrived at our doorstep. She has enjoyed reading each day in the The Plans I Have For You Devotional. She has also loved how creative she can be with the corresponding journal. She has been doing daily bible studies for a few years now, but this has helped her already in so many ways. For instance, she is now coming to me and telling me about bible stories she is learning about. In the past, I would find studies for her and we would go over them together. It's fun to see her learning about God's word and how he uses our unique traits for the good.

I'm excited for her to continue on through the devotional. It's also nice to know that I can purchase more journals for her two sisters. I know that it is something they will also enjoy and benefit from as well.

About author Amy Parker:

Amy Parker has sold more than thirty books for children, teens, and adults. She has also collaborated with authors ranging from New York Times bestsellers to her very own son. Two of these collaborations are recipients of Christian retailing's Best Awards, and she has also won three Mom's Choice Awards. But Amy's greatest reward is being a wife to Daniel and a mom to their amazing sons, Michael and Ethan.

About illustrator Vanessa Brantley-Newton:

Vanessa Brantley-Newton is a self-taught illustrator, doll maker, and crafter. Her passion for children's books began when she came across The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats as a child in the 1960s. Growing up in a musical family who love to sing, Vanessa's illustrations are as fun and whimsical as a beautiful melody. Vanessa currently makes her nest in Charlotte, NC with her husband of 20 years, their daughter, and a very rambunctious cat named Stripes.

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Want to Connect?

The Plans I Have For You Devotional Official Website

The Plans I Have For You Journal Official Website

ZonderKidz Facebook

ZonderKidz Twitter

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy New Year!

2016-01-01T10:50:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!

Keep an eye on this page.

We have some fun giveaways and freebies coming soon.

Storytelling Prompts - Tell Me A Story - Christmas Edition - Free Printable

2015-12-17T11:43:00.000-06:00

Click Here to Download and Print our
FREE Tell Me A Story - Christmas Edition

Looking for more Free Printables?
Click Here to see more

FREE Year in Review Printables

2015-12-04T11:51:00.000-06:00

Click Here to Download and Print our

FREE Year in Review Printables

I'm not sure if you like to keep records like I do, but if so than these printables are a ton of fun. Every year I try to make a binder and keep all the memorable things we have done documented in it. It's nice to be able to go back through them later on and it will be so nice to have them when my daughters are older. I have just created a cover for our binder. You can download it below if you would like to do the same.

Click Here to Download and Print our

Free 2016 Binder Cover

Like our FREE printables? Click Here to view more

Kwik Stix Review and Giveaway

2015-12-03T04:27:00.000-06:00

My daughters and I were recently blessed with the opportunity to review Kwik Stix from The Pencil Grip, Inc. This was a great blessing to our family because my three daughters absolutely love to be creative. They couldn't wait to paint with them and create their own masterpieces. And, after creating their first masterpiece they were hooked and quite frankly so was I. We are definitely huge fans of Kwik Stix. We love them!

What are Kwik Stix?

Kwik Stix are no mess, fast drying tempera paints that are fun for children of all ages. No smocks, no brushes, no cups, no water and best of all no mess. And, they dry in 90 seconds. No more hanging pieces of paper everywhere, waiting for them to dry and hoping they don't drip! It seriously doesn’t get any better than that.

I was pleasantly surprised at how easy they are to use. You simply upcap, twist, and paint. It's so simple and fun! Usually painting at our home consists of a ten minute set up, painting, and then the dreaded 10 minute or more cleanup. Sometimes painting can turn into a huge mess. That is no longer the case with the awesome Kwik Stix. It has never been easier for my daughters to paint. They had a blast painting and creating. They decided to create homemade Christmas cards for our family and friends.

They also created beautiful pictures on paper and wood. I was very impressed at how vibrant the colors were on all surfaces but, especially on the wood.

Final Thought

I thought Kwik Stix were a genius idea. I was blown away at the ease of use and I loved that they came in a tray in a box for easy storing. When we were finished painting, the girls were able to place them back nicely in the tray and then in the box and hand them to me to put with the other art supplies for safe keeping.

They didn't stay put up for long, because my youngest daughter decided that she wanted to paint some more. You know what? I was totally okay with it! I knew there would be no messes and that she would be able to spend her time doing something creative and best of all something she loved to do. In the past, I think I may have cringed and possibly said not tonight, because I wouldn't have wanted to deal with the paint mess. I'm so thankful that I don't have to worry about any of that any longer.

Also, my daughter accidentally laid her arm over where she had just painted and she was so upset thinking that she had paint all over her shirt sleeve. She didn't! I told her that they dry super fast, but I think she was a bit skeptical. She was in awe and very thankful that she didn't have to go change.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Pencil Grip, Inc. is giving away a 6 pack of Kwik Stix to one of my lucky readers.

Good Luck!

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to The Pencil Grip, Inc. for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and blogpost. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Are you wanting to buy Kwik Stix?

Kwik Stix come in a variety of sizes. You can get them in a:

6 pack

12 pack

96 pack

They would make excellent Christmas gifts or stocking stuffers.

Free Christmas Copywork & Other Fun Activities

2015-12-01T08:42:00.000-06:00

Click to Download and Print our FREE Christmas Copywork

Looking for more FREE printables? Check out our other printables HERE.

Happy Thanksgiving

2015-11-26T10:31:00.002-06:00

We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Free Thanksgiving Printables #Free #Thanksgiving #Printables

2015-11-25T10:00:00.000-06:00

Download and Print our Free Thanksgiving Printables

Like our FREE printables? Click Here to view more

Homeschool Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals - 2015

2015-11-24T12:17:00.000-06:00

*This post contains affiliate links. Read my disclosure here

It's always great to be able to stay home and still enjoy Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. I have complied a list of some great homeschool sales below. I hope you enjoy them.

************************

Bright Ideas Press customers can receive 20% off by using code "fridayblack" at checkout from Black Friday through Cyber Monday!

This sale includes all American History bundles, The Mystery of History bundles, Illuminations bundles, and North Star Geography bundles. This four day event begins 12:01 a.m. on Black Friday, Nov. 27, 2015 and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Cyber Monday, Nov. 30, 2015.

The code can be used as many times as desired during the sale period, but it cannot be used along with other coupon codes.

***************************

Institute for Excellence in Writing is having a Cyber Monday Clearance Sale. Customers can get 50% off clearance items using coupon code "CLEARANCE15". Coupon code valid only from 9:00AM Monday through 5:00PM Friday, Central Time. This offer is not to be combined with any other offer and is only for online purchases. The coupon code is required at checkout.

***************************

Amazon is offering Black Friday Week Office Deals. The sales start 11/20 and end 11/27. Now is the perfect time to stock up on all your office needs.

******************************

Homeschool Programming is also having a Black Friday - Cyber Monday sale. It will kick off Friday November 27th and run through Monday November 30th. Save 15% of all KidCoder and TeenCoder courses during this time, including their new online options.

This is a great time to pick up a perfect Christmas gift for your techie student or prepare a new elective for your second semester!

******************************

Educents is having a 10% off + Free shipping sale happening now for homeschoolers and teachers.

******************************

What's in the Bible? is also having a Black Friday sale. Save 30% on orders over $30. Valid 11/25/15 - 11/30/15.

******************************

ChristianBook.com is having Awesome Black Friday Deals. You can get up to 94% off. You don't want to miss this great sale.

******************************

******************************

Black Friday 2015 Ads

******************************

I hope you find some great deals friends. Happy Shopping!

Have a deal to share? Leave us a comment below.

I will be adding more links as I find them.

Fibonacci Day - 11/23

2015-11-23T10:35:00.002-06:00

November 23 is Fibonacci Day

It is an annual holiday that honors one of the most influential mathematicians of the Middle Ages - Leonardo Bonacci.

Also known as Leonardo of Pisa, he is popularly known as Leonardo Fibonacci. Fibonacci is a contraction of filo Bonacci, meaning the son of Bonaccio.

November 23 is celebrated as Fibonacci day because when the date is written in the mm/dd format (11/23), the digits in the date form a Fibonacci sequence: 1,1,2,3. A Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers where a number is the sum of the two numbers before it.

For example: 1, 1, 2, 3...is a Fibonacci sequence. Here, 2 is the sum of the two numbers before it (1+1). Similarly, 3 is the sum of the two numbers before it (1+2).

Fibonacci Day Resources

Fibonacci Sequence

Leonardo Fibonacci

Fabulous Fibonacci - includes a PDF lesson plan

Fibonacci Seuence - BrainPop

Numbers of Nature Video

Fibonacci numbers and the golden section

Fabulous Fibonacci Fun!

FIBONACCI ART PROJECT

Who was Fibonacci?

The Fibonacci Sequence in Nature

Famous numbers sequences card sort

Leonardo Fibonacci Slideshare

The Ultimate Resource on the Fibonacci Sequence

Fibonacci Day FREE Printable

Click below to Download and Print our

Free Fibonacci Day Printable

Like our FREE printables? Click Here to view more

I'm Happy for You (Sort Of...Not Really) Review & Giveaway #HydrateForTheHolidays #FLYBY

2015-11-22T09:48:00.000-06:00

About I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really)

Our cultural obsession with comparison is undercutting relationships and sapping contentment. With disarming candor and humor, Kay Wills Wyma explores how to trade comparison for compassion and rediscover what life is all about.

It’s easy to get caught in the comparison games we play with our appearances, our kids, and our homes. Kay reminds exhausted families about tried and true remedies from the pressures of competitive living. In her warm, relatable style, Kay confronts the comparison epidemic raging in our homes, our neighborhoods, and our social-media feeds, offering remedies along the way.

I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really) explores the troubling effects of living in an excessively competitive culture—and reveals simple yet effective ways to escape the comparison trap.

My Thoughts

I'm very thankful to have had the opportunity to review I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really). As soon as I saw the cover to the book, I was sold. I couldn't quit reading it. Kay Wyma drew me in immediately with her honest and witty words.

I can't even count how many times I have fell into the comparison trap. Truth be told, we all find ourselves falling into it daily. Kay Wyma has managed to address the issue in a way that is good for the soul. In the book, she offers wise and helpful solutions. I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really) is simply fantastic! I think that everyone should read it.

I have three daughters and I can't wait for them to read it also. The comparison trap isn't only an adult problem. I see the struggles my daughters have faced with it and it has really bothered me. This book provides wonderful suggestions on how to mentally reboot and chose to be genuinely happy.

I absolutely loved the “Letting Go of Comparison” points at the end of each chapter. They summed up all the main points. Something else that I really enjoyed about I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really), is that in the back of the book there are pages devoted to discussion questions for each chapter. I also enjoyed the many wonderful quotes that are included.

About the Author

Kay Wills Wyma is a blogger, mother of five, and the author of Cleaning House through which she has appeared on The TODAY Show, CNN, Glenn Beck, The New York Times, Focus on the Family, and more. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, she held positions at the White House, the Staubach Company, and Bank of America. Kay lives in the Dallas area with her husband, Jon, and their family.

Thoughts from Kay...

Tired of performing? Feeling weighed down by the pressure to be Pinteresting? Does your friend’s wardrobe, body, marriage, paycheck, vacation plans, or photoshoot-worthy home décor leave you wishing your life looked more like that?

You’re not alone.

With its focus on smarter, faster, thinner, and ever-better, our cultural obsession with comparison is undercutting relationships and sapping contentment. Our friends become our audience (or judges), and our titles, activities, even kids become part of our brand. Factor in social media’s constant reminder of what everyone else is doing, and no wonder we feel drained, discontent, and isolated.

Thankfully, we don’t have to live this way!

Stay Connected

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

AMAZON

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaways are only valid in the US & Canada

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

Home Grown Hearts Academy Homeschool Blog

The Afters - Live on Forever ~ Review & Giveaway #FlyBy #TheAfters

Wise Guys by Kent Evans - Book Review #WiseGuys #FlyBy

ESV Family Devotional Bible - Review #ESVFamilyDevotionalBible #flyby

8 Simple Tools for Raising Great Kids ~ Review

Happy Easter!

Glimmer Girls Review & Giveaway #GlimmerGirls #FlyBy

Good, Good Father by Chris Tomlin & Giveaway

Win a Flyaway to see

Chris Tomlin at Worship Night In America

The Legend of the Easter Robin Review & Giveaway #EasterRobin #FlyBy

GrubMarket Fruit Box REVIEW & GIVEAWAY

Jesus Today: Devotions for Kids Review & Giveaway #JesusTodayKids #FlyBy

FREE Martin Luther King, Jr. Resources & FREE Printable

Benjamin Franklin FREE Homeschool Resources

Favorite Homeschool Resources Picked by Homeschoolers

Emily of Smith Squad recommends the Life of Fred books.

Lisa Marie of The Canadian Homeschooler uses the Writecraft and Mathcraft Units.

Allison of Just Add Coffee loves the Magic School Bus Science Experiments.

Lisa of Chickens and Bunnies Homeschool loves the Life of Fred Elementary Books.

Celena of The Traveling Sisterhood recommends the Times Tales Multiplication videos.

Kelly of Raising Samuels loves the Magic School Bus Science Club.

Amy of Busy Boys Brigade recommends the Life of Fred Beginning Readers.

Jenn of Chaotic Bliss Homeschooling also loves Times Tales.

Amy of Teaching in Blue Jeans uses Learn to Mod Minecraft with her son.

Tabitha of Life Learning Homeschool uses the King Tut Mini Unit.

Amy from Not Your Average Homeschool Mom loves Minecraft Mod Design.

Kayla of The Arrowood Zoo loves using Magformers for lessons at home.

Shelly of Free Homeschooling 101 recommends the Violin Starter Set.

Rebecca of Hip Homeschooling likes Magformers.

Teri of Mommy Wife Life recommends the Spectacular Space Unit Study.

Jamie of Simple Homeschool loves Life of Fred too!

Gabriella, Homeschooling Consultant, recommends the Number Formation Poems.

Captive DVD Review and Giveaway #CaptiveMovie #FlyBy

The Plans I Have For You Devotional & Journal Review & Giveaway #PlansIHave #FLYBY

Happy New Year!

Storytelling Prompts - Tell Me A Story - Christmas Edition - Free Printable

FREE Year in Review Printables

Kwik Stix Review and Giveaway

Free Christmas Copywork & Other Fun Activities

Happy Thanksgiving

Free Thanksgiving Printables #Free #Thanksgiving #Printables

Homeschool Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals - 2015

Black Friday 2015 Ads

Fibonacci Day - 11/23

I'm Happy for You (Sort Of...Not Really) Review & Giveaway #HydrateForTheHolidays #FLYBY

Teri of Mommy Wife Life recommends the Spectacula r Space Unit Study.