Under the Golden Apple Tree

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:46:00 +0000

Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life is popular book written by Wendy Mass. The book is recommended for children in grade 5 through grade 7. It is a book about adventure, drama, comedy, and the meaning of life.

Synopsis

Jeremy Fink is 12 and still mourning the death of his father. His father died in a car accident when Jeremy was 8 years old. A fortune teller told Jeremy’s father that he would die at the age of 40. The fortune teller was wrong. Jeremy’s dad died at age 39. Jeremy has led a very focused and safe life since. Until one day something usual happened.

On the cusp of Jeremy turning 13, he receives a package in the mail. In the package is a box with note. The note states that inside the box is the meaning of life. There is only one problem. He must find the key to open the box. He cannot destroy the lock or the box to get it open or it could damage the contents. He must find the right key. So, he and his friend Lizzy set off to find the right key to find the meaning of life

Exciting News

On March 6, 2012, Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life will be available on DVD, on demand and in digital release. The DVD is full of special features such as cast interviews, deleted scenes, and a limited edition embossed o-card with glitter spotting. Also included is a downloadable audio of the author, Wendy Mass, reading the first chapter of the book.

The movie is a family friendly adventure with Mira Sorvino and Joe Pantoliano. Family movie night is back!

The film is a great adventure for the whole family. The film is rated PG and is approximately 88 minutes long. The cast is excellent. You feel like you are on the journey with Lizzy and Jeremy as they travel to flea markets and science museums to find the meaning of life. So grab some popcorn and steal 88 minutes as a family to enjoy some time laughing and having an adventure together. A great film if you read the book or not. However, you may want to add the book to your family reading list to prepare for the movie!

For more information about Jeremy Fink and the Meaning of Life, please visit www.Phase4Films.com, www.facebook.com/phase4films or @Phase4Films.

Hello and thank you for visiting Under the Golden Apple Tree! Have you heard that Google Friend Connect will no longer be available to non-Blogger blogs as of March 1, 2012? If you are following through GFC, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed and like Under the Golden Apple Tree on Facebook so you don't miss anything! Thanks so much for visiting!

Disclosure: As a member of Team Mom I was generously provided with products to test. My opinions are my own and may or may not reflect that of Team Mom or the vendor.

My Blog Spark: Big G Retro Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 03:21:00 +0000

It's time again for another My Blog Spark giveaway! The Big G Retro Giveaway is exciting! If you like cereal, remember Atari and shop at Target, this is the giveaway for you. If you just like two of the three or even one of the three you cannot go wrong.

Prize Pack

(2) Big G Cereal boxes (Any 2 Big G cereals so you may be surprised!)
$10 Target Gift Card
Free Download of "Atari 80 classic Games in One!"

Disclosure: I received the prize pack from Atari, Target and General Mills through MyBlogSpark!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

12 Ways To Use Vinegar

noreply@blogger.com (Jacinda @ Growing Home) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:20:00 +0000

Vinegar. I buy huge jugs of the stuff at a time. It's dirt cheap, completely natural (made from fermented fruits, vegetables, or apple cider), and has more uses than I can count. It has replaced our pesticides, herbicides, Windex, dishwashing Rinse Aid, shoe polish, deodorizers, meat tenderizers, and much, much more.

I love it when natural, non-toxic stuff, is also the cheaper, more effective method to dozens of household problems. Vinegar saves on money by eliminating the need for an entire host of products, can be made yourself or bought for a price even a miser can afford, and it holds its own in the job quality department.

Here's a list of ways we regularly use this cheap, natural, acidic wonder:

Kill weeds. Pick a scorching hot day a drown your weeds with full-strength vinegar. We did this to our driveway last year, and they were all withered and crusty within three days of applying vinegar faithfully.
Clean floors. I use 1 cup of white vinegar diluted in a pail of hot water to do mine.
Relieve sunburn. If I get a little sun-kissed while gardening, I apply a little white vinegar to my red shoulders to relieve the heat.
Unclog your drains. Throw a scoop of baking soda down there followed by a cup or two of vinegar down there and see if they don't run a little better.
Dishwashing agent. We have terribly hard water. When the most expensive brand of Rinse-Aid couldn't get our glasses and silverware clean, we tried vinegar instead. Voila! We no longer have to serve our guests glasses that look like we just drank milk from them.
Clean stainless steel. Once in a blue moon, I go nuts on our house and wipe everything shiny with a vinegar dampened cloth. *Sparkles*
Clean your windows. Say Good-bye to Windex. It used to be my best friend until I met Vinegar.
Removed stains from pots and pans. Baked on food happens. Let it soak for a while in a water/vinegar solution and you'd never know.
Remove lint from clothes. Add half a cup of vinegar to your rinse cycle to brighten your colors and to get rid of the fuzzy-wuzzies.
Prolong the life of cut flowers. Two Tablespoons of vinegar and three Tablespoons of sugar per quart of water can make the difference between a short-lived bouquet or a long lasting, perky one.
Treat colds, sore throats, sinus infections, upset stomach, warts and arthritis. All by digesting, swallowing, gargling, and applying vinegar.
Disinfect. Use Vinegar to disinfect any germ haven: cutting boards, bath tubs, floors, fixtures, counter tops, appliances, utensils-anything!

Are you a fan of vinegar? What else have you used it for?

Jacinda is a sinner saved by grace, the cherished wife to her husband of three years, Brad, and the blessed mama to two precious children so far - Charity (2), and Judah (7 months). She is a homeschool graduate with counseling certificates from CCEF, and passionate about serving the Lord as a "keeper at home." You can find her blogging about her adventures in homemaking at Growing Home, where she records the struggles and triumphs of crafting, gardening, homeschooling sticky-fingered toddlers, living a counter-cultural life, and cooking gluten-free.

Preschooler's Lunch Inspected and Taken Away by School

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:23:00 +0000

I am not sure why I continue to be surprised by the insanity reported in the news. Moreover why I am surprised by the lengths the state through the public school system will go to undermine parental rights. Yet, I stand in shock that a preschooler's lunch was inspected and taken away by a state worker. That is why I pay taxes...so little children can have their lunches taken away by state workers.

In the news yesterday, was a story that should not have surprised but alas I was anyway. Fox News reported that a preschool girl was not allowed to eat the lunch her mother packed for her because the contents did not meet “”U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines.”” The student was provided a lunch of chicken nuggets provided by the school cafeteria to provide the nutrition she needed to live. In what world can chicken nuggets provided by a school lunchroom be considered edible much less healthy? You may be thinking that her mother surely packed her a lunch of wood chips and pixie sticks to merit such an action.

The student’s lunch consisted of:

turkey and cheese sandwich
banana
apple juice
potato chips

Moreover, the student was sent home with a letter and a bill charging the parents for the chicken nuggets. The letter stated that parents who did not pack a healthy lunch would force the school to supplement and parents would be charged. What? You mean the schools are not taking the time to inspect children’s lunches? Yes. Yes, they are. That is your tax dollars at work. Since your tax dollars were not enough to pay the state workers who inspect the lunches, they need to find ways to say a banana is unhealthy so they can nickel and dime parents to supplement with healthier options. Healthier options such as chicken nuggets.

As you can obviously tell this news is appalling to me. I am tired of the school systems playing parent. This is the first step in a school system claiming they know better than the parent and will take action. Sure, it is only chicken nuggets today, but if we continue to hand over our rights neatly tied in a bow, it will not end here.

By the way, I don't care what the student's had in her lunch. Short of illegal substances, her lunch should not have been inspected and replaced. If I was the parent, I would not pay the $1.25 for the nuggets. The school should pay the parent for a lunch that was not eaten.

From my homeschool to yours...

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:09:00 +0000

Have a heart shaped day!

Building on a Mission with Mega Bloks

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 17:13:00 +0000

One of my family’s favorite types of toy is building toys. We love to create vehicles, cities, and out of this world characters and things. I enjoy seeing the kids create and use their imagination. So, I was thrilled to present to them the All About Blok Squad Construction Unit Mission. The idea of combing a construction crew and Mega Bloks was genius! These guys get used all the time to build, teardown, and recreate amazing scenes. The best part is that the set is only $9.99. How often can you find fun for multiple ages of children for only $9.99. The set is for children ages 5 and up, but my three year old enjoyed being part of the fun as well.

Block Squad Construction Unit Mission by Mega Bloks

Getting the job done is easy and fun with this construction crew. The set includes two construction vehicles including a front loader and a 4x4! The multi-use front loader is the favorite among the kids in this set. Everyone also loved the two construction workers and wheelbarrow. The set has 218 pieces in total.

What the kids loved:

The kids loved the front loader and the construction workers. They also loved to create scenes with all the Blok Squad playsets to create a little city complete with policemen, firemen and the construction workers. The kids put the crew to work building vehicles, buildings, jails, and houses. They thought it was very cool to bring the Squad outside and play in the sand and dirt!

What I loved:

I love the creativity that always comes in a box of Mega Bloks. Mega Bloks are timeless and appeal to a large age group. I know once I purchase a set, it will be enjoyed for years to come. Not to mention it makes a great gift that will not break the bank.

For more information please visit www.megabrands.com!

Don't forget to join the Mega Bloks Family Club!

Disclosure: As a member of Team Mom I was generously provided with products to test. My opinions are my own and may or may not reflect that of Team Mom or the vendor.

Book Review: When the Smoke Clears

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 16:29:00 +0000

Book: When the Smoke Clears

Author: Lynette Eason

Publisher: Revell Publishing

Purchase: $14.99

Disclosure: Book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Book Description: (Revell Publishing)

After a brush with death due to equipment failure, smokejumper Alexia Allen is ordered to take time off while the incident is under investigation. She makes a last-minute decision to recuperate at her mother's home and attend her high school reunion. Yet trouble seems to be following her, and within hours of arriving home she is confronted with murder, arson--and a handsome detective.
But the conflicts ahead are nothing compared to the ghosts of her past. As she struggles to accept and forgive her family's past, she must also decide if the secret she's been guarding for the last ten years must finally come to light.

Chock-full of the suspense and romantic tension you've come to expect from Lynette Eason, When the Smoke Clears is the explosive first book in the Deadly Reunions series.

My Review:

I have read several of Lynette Eason's books. Her books are always thrilling and this one is no exception. I was curious how she would weave an intriguing tale within the pages of a book about a female firefighter. I will admit, I almost did not think this book would be of interest to me. I am glad I read it based on Eason's past books, because it certainly lives up to all you expect out of this very talented author. The combination of romance and intrigue is amazing! The book is so fast moving the pages practically turn themselves. Another fine book for her and a promising new series.

Using Leftovers Wisely

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 14:48:00 +0000

I am trying to save money on my grocery bill. I will admit I am not the best at using coupons or shopping around. I tend to go to only one or two places. My reasoning is that no matter where I went I spent about the same. Except the last few weeks I spent more than any person needs to spend. The price of groceries goes up far faster than my income. With a growing family and growing needs there needs to be relief. My husband's complaints echoed in my ears, "I just threw away a bag of bad broccoli." or "I just threw away leftovers no one ate." I figured some relief was not far from my dinner table. I am great at saving leftovers but terrible at remembering to use them. Not using leftover is like throwing money in the trash. Often ff the leftovers are not enough for another meal I would toss it, give it to the dog, or put in the fridge only to go bad. To my shame, I have thrown away too much food. It is time for a change.

Tips I Learned About Using Leftovers

Serve your family the correct portions so you do not have to scrap off good food into the garbage. If someone wants seconds make sure to provide a small amount. Most will eat the correct portion and be satisfied if served the correct portion.
As you chop up vegetables do not throw away anything. Save all of it for compost or for vegetable stock. Vegetable stock is easy to make and freezes well. Simply throw in onions, garlic peels, ends of celery or the rest of the pepper or what you normally would toss in a stock pot of water. Boil for about 45 minutes, strain, and freeze.
Purchase freezer safe containers so you can freeze portions of meals that are too small to eat for lunch or dinner again but too much to waste. Such as a few meatballs or a small side of pasta. These little tidbits will come in handy the next time you make that meal or as a side or part of another meal.
Save leftovers for lunch the next day. That will make good use of your meal and save you from buying dinner the next day.
If you are making a pot roast buy a roast a little bigger and use the leftovers for lunch sandwiches.
Save all your meat, drippings, bones and such to make a meat stock. Make it like the vegetable stock. Meat stock will freeze just as nicely as the vegetable stock.
You can freeze leftover pancakes, waffles, quiche and eggs. No sense in throwing it away and it will save you from buying something on the way to work or school if you are running late and need a quick breakfast.

This is not an exhaustive list but it is start. Please let me know your tips and solutions to leftovers or saving money on your groceries.

Spending Time with Family in the Kitchen

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:59:00 +0000

Cooking together is one of my favorite family activities. It is a time to work together and laugh together. Since my children are spread out in ages we assign one adult or older child to help one of the younger children. The children enjoy participating while learning cooperation and how to follow directions in a relaxed environment. The kitchen seems so much warmer as we all prepare a meal together.......................

Read the rest at: A Mother's Heritage! Stop over and learn all about family time in the kitchen!

Launch of The Fruit of her Hands Mega Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:50:00 +0000

Introducing the launch of a brand new business!

To celebrate our launch we are offering a giveaway featuring:

Enter to win this 41" twisty scarf in pink and green crocheted by Olivia! She will be making more crocheted creations for ladies, young ladies, and girls. Be on the lookout!

And presenting a fun Sensory Box of the Month:

Sensory box includes a variety of fun filled items perfect for Valentine's day. What makes this sensory box different is that it comes with activities, lessons and idea for a craft using a few materials provided in the box. So it is a sensory box but also a learning box!

BONUS ITEM:

The winner of the Golden Giveaway will also receive a copy of Time Engineers provided by Software Kids.

Read the full review HERE.

BONUS ITEM:
The winner of this giveaway will also win a PAJAMA EATER provided by Nom Nom Cookies!

Is this guy cute or what? Let him hold onto your child's PJ's during the day so when bedtime arrives your child can always find PJ's!

Read full review HERE.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prizes must be claimed within 5 days of the email notification or prize will be transferred to another winner. Thank you! ;)

Ooka Island Adverture GIVEAWAY!

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:47:00 +0000

It is my pleasure to bring to you a giveaway sponsored by Ooka Island Adventure!
Ooka Island is my daughter's favorite computer game!

What is Ooka Island?

Ooka Island is a mission your child embarks on guided by a friendly robot named Zobot. The early literacy game teachesphonics and letter/sound recognition to move right into blending and making words. The game brings the child on adventures to amazing spots on Ooka Island such as Cave of Sounds, Alphabet Mountain, and Bubbly Troubly. Your child will read from books when she reaches Popcorn Mountain. Reading from the books is very exciting for both the parent and the child.

Read the full review HERE.

The giveaway is for a full family subscription worth $129.95 which includes 4 logins!!! I just know your children will love this game! The company is top notch and the game provides entertainment wrapped in solid literacy teaching.

BONUS ITEM:

The winner of Ooka Island Adventure will also win this great new product:

This is Bink'd! A great new product that my girls love!

Kit Includes:

Purse
2 Containers of Bink'd
Applicator
Child safe scissors

What is Bink'd?

Just the coolest thing ever but I already said that. Bink'd is a line of temporary tattoo earrings. Just the right size for little ears with no worry of choking hazards that toy earrings my present. They can stay on for about four days but you easily remove them if you desire. What makes Bink'd cool is all the styles from hearts to panda bears. What makes is super cool is that you can use the tattoos on ear lobes (or ear flaps as my little one calls it), nails, baby dolls, toy cars or just about anything!

Read the full review HERE.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prizes must be claimed within 5 days of the email notification or prize will be transferred to another winner. Thank you! ;)

The Virtue and Godly Training Jumbo Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:46:00 +0000

Welcome to The Virtue and Godly Training Jumbo Giveaway sponsored by We Choose Virtues and Child Training Bible.

WE CHOOSE VIRTUES is a company based on training up children in Godly character.

Read my complete review of the company HERE.

The giveaway consists of:

Parenting Cards

Kids Virtue Poster

100 Day's of Virtue Poster with stickers

__________________________________________________________________

CHILD TRAINING BIBLE's mission:

Our mission is to equip parents to use the truth of God's Word in times of instruction with their children.

The giveaway is for a COMPLETE Child Training Bible Kit! All the tools you need to bring character and bible training into your home.

1 Child Training Bible Key (laminated)

3 Easy Tabbers (double-sided cardstock)

1 Set of Instructions to make your Child Training Bible

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prizes must be claimed within 5 days of the email notification or prize will be transferred to another winner. Thank you! ;)

Love Around the Block Facebook Party Favors

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:45:00 +0000

Courtesy of Doorposts:
Making Relationships with your Children a Priority

Courtesy of We Choose Virtues:
A List of Memory Verses, Bible Heroes and Truths

Courtesy of All About Learning Press
Freebies! Including Zig Zag Zebra and Teaching Spelling Tips!

Doorposts GIVEAWAY!

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:43:00 +0000

Doorposts has been long known and loved for their line of products that emphasize Godly character and training. The products range from parenting to husbands and wives. Materials are Christ centered and emphasize living a surrendered life. If you are unfamiliar with Doorposts you are in for a treat!

Giveaway is for the Parenting Essentials Package:

Included:

For Instruction in Righteousness - A 376-page topical reference guide for biblical child-training
A Checklist for Parents - Questions and Scripture focusing on the Biblical duties of parents
The If-Then Chart - For Bible-based, consistent discipline in your home
The Blessing Chart - Recognize and encourage your child's godly behavior
The Go-to-the-Ant Chart - What the Bible says about diligence and laziness.
The Brother-Offended Checklist - Teach your children to resolve disagreements in a godly manner (study book included).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prizes must be claimed within 5 days of the email notification or prize will be transferred to another winner. Thank you! ;)

All About Reading Level 1: GIVEAWAY

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:40:00 +0000

What is All About Reading, Level 1?

All About Reading, Level 1 is a complete reading program which uses a multi-sensory approach. The child will be completely engaged in the process of reading from all aspects and will grow more excited daily to learn to read.

There are five key components of reading. All About Reading incorporates all of them thoroughly.

Phonological Awareness
Phonics and Decoding
Fluency
Vocabulary
Comprehension

What did I think of All About Reading, Level 1?

If you thought teaching reading was anything but a privilege then you could be using the wrong program. I have a student who is difficult to teach reading and she is excelling. She is having fun and asks to do All About Reading, Level 1 everyday.

To read a full review go to Families.com.

Giveaway:

For samples and more information on the All About Reading Level 1 Kit visit HERE.

For more information on the Deluxe Reading Kit visit HERE.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Prizes must be claimed within 5 days of the email notification or prize will be transferred to another winner. Thank you! ;)

Are You a Playful Mom?

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 12:15:00 +0000

“If mothers could learn to do for themselves what they do for their children when these are overdone, we should have happier households. Let the mother go out to play!” ~Charlotte Mason

When is the last time you laughed, enjoyed being outside, or played a game of kickball with the kids? It is easy to forget the simple things when you are busy homeschooling your children. Homeschooling moms wear many hats during the day from cook to teacher to janitor. The days are filled with teaching, cooking, cleaning and laundry. Children are nurtured, discipled, taught, loved and given opportunities to be creative and just play.

Do you have time to play or create? I'm not talking about "me" time. I am talking about time to enjoy yourself, your family and a good laugh and playful afternoon with the kids. Be a part of the joy, share the laugh, take time to play with your children.

If you look up and realize that you have not laughed or played lately then correct that this very instant. Your children need a joyful mom who sets the tone of the home. A joyful home is a home that will capture the hearts of your children. They will have no need to drift off to friends’ homes or outside activities when they learn the art of play at home. In addition, being playful will help your bond with your kids. Play is not just for the kids. Play is for all of us. We all want to feel the sun on our faces and the wind through our hair as we swing toward the sky. Be a playful mom.

Math Rider Review

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:36:00 +0000

Product: Math Rider
Format: Downloadable Math Computer Game
Focus: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division
Use: Supplement to math program, extra practice, review
Rating: 3 out of 5 golden apples

What is Math Rider?

Math Rider focuses on teaching a child basic math facts in all four areas of math; addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Children are given math facts as they enter Math Land completing noble quests on horseback. The child is sent on a quest to find healing medicine for her mother. To enter and get through the Math Land a child must answer math facts. The game is fully customizable as to not frustrate the child. The math facts focused on are those from numbers 0 to 12.

More info:

Have your child master addition, subtraction, multiplication and division all for the cost of less than 1 hour professional private tuition!

You will know when your child has completely mastered an operation. And more importantly, your child will know it, too!

This is the fastest way to mastery of all four math operations. The artificial intelligence rehearses what is needed most, at a rate that is tailored to each player.

The game recognizes and rewards math improvement, not just perfection. This builds confidence and propels children naturally towards complete mastery.
Noble quests exemplify positive values such as family, caring, honesty and kindness.

What did we think of Math Rider?

The concept is solid. I liked how the game keeps track of the child’s progress and how the game customizes to the child. The idea of going on quests is fun and keeps the child engaged for a time. I think while the graphics are not the best the overall concept is great for a student who needs to learn or brush up on math facts.

My child, however, did not like Math Rider. She grew bored of the game quickly and did not care to play it. Quite honestly, she found the idea of math drills boring. I suppose so boring even a horse and a quest could not make it more interesting. Keep in mind, that math facts come easily to my child and perhaps to a child who struggles it may work out better. Or perhaps she is just odd as everyone I know who has used it has loved it. :)

Disclosure: This product was provided by Math Rider through TOS Homeschool Crew.

KinderBack Review

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:36:00 +0000

What is Kinderbach?
KinderBach is an online piano program for children ages 2-7. There are 6 levels with 10 weeks in each level and 4 days of lessons each week. The lessons last only 3 to 6 minutes in the beginning but grow as time goes on. The lengths of the lessons never become too overwhelming.

KinderBach teaches:

time signature and beats
to recognize keys A-G
Treble and Bass Cleft
rhythm notes (quarter, half, eighth, etc.)
to play simple songs on the piano such as “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” and “Happy Birthday” and reading from a staff
to recognize and clap and play rhythms
intervals
and more

The KinderBack lessons include a video with engaging sons, fun activities and games, and cartoon characters your children will adore. Children will play rhythm instruments, sing along, play the piano and complete pages from the included PDF activity books during the lessons. The PDF activity books are adorable and a big hit the kids. They learn so much and the reinforcement from the printable activities helps the child process and remember the material. The method of teaching is step by step, simple and logical so it is perfect for young children. The repetition used in the lessons will aid in the child’s understanding of the material.
Would you like to introduce your child to piano? The first two weeks of KinderBach are available for you to try out for free! You do not need a musical background to teach this program.

What did I think of Kinderbach?

Kinderbach is a solid program that is loved by many who have tried it. My 6 year old, however, did not like the videos and grew bored with the lessons. She is much more interested in having her sister teach her piano. That is most likely a learning style difference. However, I thought the videos were better suited for toddlers. My three year old enjoyed the videos and the program. She thought the activities and games were fun and did learn quite a bit.

Disclosure: Product provided by Kinderbach through TOS Homeschool Crew.

True Giving

noreply@blogger.com (Tanya) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

I haven't been of the belief for years now that monetary wealth is the most significant ingredient of success. But still my outlook has even deepened toward the truth.

They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything -- all she had to live on. ~ Mark 12:44

When Jesus said: Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. ~ Matthew 19:24, was He talking about us? I never thought He was, but now that I know I am in the top 3% of the richest people in the world, I am looking at this scripture differently.

In America there is never enough and so our riches don't feel like riches. Compared to the world though we have an abundance of wealth. And if I could stick to spending only on my needs and then instead of going on to my wants, I went on to the needs of others, I bet I wouldn't live pay check to pay check. Not only would I have enough, but I would feel the richness in my soul, where it matters. Where God sees it.

I knew a woman. No car. No house. Giving of her life, of the little that she had... of all that she had. Like the woman Jesus spoke of. She seemed like she had less, but she really had more..

As my husband went through her belongings as a final good~bye, he found piles of Awards. Awards for giving. Giving to the world... to hungry, abandoned, abused children. My mother in love, whom appeared to not have much, had more than I. She had a heart to give all that she had. She is my hero. She knew something about life and its belongings. They can't go with us to Heaven, and Heaven is the goal. And giving what we have, from a sacrificial place is to give to God Himself.

And as God gave me glimpses of her in her glory, I was inspired and encouraged to do as the Bible says: The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern. ~ Proverbs 29:7

With Love,

Princess Party on a Pauper's Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:53:00 +0000

Every little girl wants to be treated like a princess on her birthday. Once more she wants all the trappings of a party fit for a princess. Princess parties conjure up images of lush pink table clothes and seat covers to crystal glassware to a horse drawn carriage. Unless you are a king there is no way your princess will enjoy the trappings of a princess. However, you can provide a party to remember using simple details that will make your princess feel special even on a pauper’s budget.

Invitations:

When you are shopping for invitations look no further than your local dollar store. Find a plan invitation and use rhinestones and satin ribbon to decorate accents and turn a simple invitation into something fabulous. Think outside of the box and use paper princess crowns you can find in craft stores or even from Burger King as invitations. Simply write the information on the inside of the crown or attach a cute tag to the crown. In the wedding section at my local dollar store there was a pack of clear high heel shoes intended to be used as party favors. Attach a tag with all the right information to the shoe and you have the perfect Cinderella invitation. You can say, “Come find out if your fit the shoe from the ball” and use this idea as a party game as well. Create your own initiations by using your computer and printing them out on cardstock. Add on some self stick rhinestones to complete the look.

Decorations:

If you receive monthly coupons from a fabric store then use it for tulle. Tulle is a great fabric to make something ordinary to the things in fairy tales. Tulle is normally inexpensive and it looks great. You do not need to know how to sew or even cut straight to work with it. You can use it to tie a ribbon around the back of chairs for a special princess touch. Cut a piece large enough to make a table runner. Allow it to flow over the table and perhaps attach ribbon or fake flowers to the edges of the runner. You can find ribbon and fake flowers at your dollar store.

Multiple Use Items:

When planning a party on a budget use make as many items as possible work a double. A craft will be your activity and your party favor. A three tiered cupcake stand will serve as a centerpiece and princess treats.

Food:

Plan your party for the standard 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. You will alleviate having to serve a lunch or a dinner. During this time cake and ice cream will be enough. Make the cake yourself to save on the cost of purchasing one. If you ware uncomfortable decorating then have a cupcake bar where the girls grab their cupcake, frost it, and add the toppings themselves. This is always a huge hit. Or you can place a cupcake in an individual tea cup and top with sprinkles.

What Did Charlotte Mason Mean by Masterly Inactivity?

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:03:00 +0000

What is Masterly Inactivity?

Masterly inactivity is when a parent steps back and allows the child the freedom to play within boundaries. The concept is often difficult for a parent to understand or balance. A parent who is nervous or stressed throughout the school day will pass along those traits to her children. A parent who passively watches her child explore the world with no boundaries will pass this false idea of freedom to her children. The balance is where we meet masterly inactivity.

The cornerstone of masterly inactivity is the confident parent. A confident parent is one who has established a sense of authority over her children. She can allow for a day in the sun rather than a day studying math indoors as a gift and not a concession.

Consider what Charlotte Mason said, ““The mere blessed fact of the parental relationship and of that authority which belongs to it, by right and by nature, acts upon the children as do sunshine and shower on a seed in good soil. But the fussy parent, the anxious parent, the parent who explains overmuch, who commands overmuch, who excuses overmuch, who restrains overmuch, who interferes overmuch, even the parent who is with the children overmuch, does away with the dignity and simplicity of that relationship.””

Every parent has times when her confidence is shaky and makes mistakes. However, as the parental figure it is demanded that you forgive yourself of mistakes to allow one to move forward with grace. Living I the shadow of your mistakes will not only cause you to doubt yourself but your children to doubt you.

Masterly inactivity allows for the children to be hands on while the parent is hands off. When children are playing dollhouse, blocks, or outside, the parent keeps a watchful eye yet does not intercede unless redirection is needed. The parent exhibits a self restraint that allows a child the freedom to express her character and what she has learned. The parent is alert but not intrusive. The stage for masterly inactivity is set by the parent to show calmness and a time to simply play.

Masterly Inactivity is not…

Masterly inactivity is not characterized by a parent who is overly intrusive during playtime. The result will be a stressed environment that will not allow for the students to express creativity. Hands off is to be balanced with a discreet watchful eye so the child is not running rampant and caution is not thrown to the wind.

Masterly inactivity is not forced playtime or a day filled with busy activities and field trips. The child’s mind needs to be free and have time to process and use his imagination. A trip to the park or playing with autumn leaves in the front yard is all that is required for this leisurely time. It is called “inactivity” because this is not to be confused with forming an activity to plug your children into.

Having a confidence as a parent and in your children is crucial. You should not sit over the child and caution her over every crack in the sidewalk or shaky tree branch while remaining alert. Achieving a balance is the key to the development of your child.

My Blog Spark: Dulce de Leche Cheerios

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:58:00 +0000

Cheerios just keeps getting better and better! I just love all the new flavors they are coming out with. The Dulce de Leche has a sweet caramel taste that is fun to eat in the morning and for recipes. My kids snack on it with milk or right from the box. Here is your chance to try it by winning an awesome Dulce de Leche Cheerios prize pack!

Recipes Using Dulce de Leche Cheerios

Dulce de Leche Cheerios Snack Mix- combine pretzels, nuts, and other sweet treats with Dulce de Leche Cheerios for a sweet and salty munching mix with a crunch
Dulce de Leche Popcorn Balls- Gooey popcorn balls that melt in your mouth as you bite into the caramel flavors
Dulce de Leche No Bake Snack Bars- Hearty bars with bits of fruit and nut for on-the-go snacking
Dulce de Leche Apple Bread- A hint of caramel paired with refreshing apple flavors that is perfect for any time of day
Dulce de Leche Cheerios Parfait- Jazz up your yogurt with Dulce de Leche Cheerios and fresh fruit
Dulce de Leche No Bake Cheesecake- Make your own crust for this rich cheese cake using Dulce de Leche Cheerios

Your Dulce de Leche Cheerios prize pack will contain:

Box of Dulce de Leche Cheerios
Orange polka dot cereal bowl
Cereal spoon
Dulce de leche scented candle

Enter Here

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: The new Dulce de Leche Cheerios information, product, and prize pack have been provided free of charge by Cheerios and General Mills, through MyBlogSpark

UPrinting Giveaway: Booklets

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:38:00 +0000

I am very excited to bring you another UPrinting giveaway! The prize is fantastic! This time the prize is 25 short-run booklets. What could you do with that? Let me know for a mandatory entry. You can count on UPrinting for professional quality products so if you ever thought of printing out booklets for your business, event, celebration or whatever you need this giveaway is for you!

Giveaway Prize

25 pcs. Booklet Printing for One (1) Winner
8.5" x 11"
100lb Paper Gloss (Paper and Cover Paper Type)
8pp (Cover=4, Inside=4)
Saddle Stitched
Left Side Binding
3 Business Days Turnaround
*Free shipping
Restriction: Limited to *US residents 18 years old and above only

Enter Here

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: You should assume that the owner of this blog will receive free print product in exchange for the post. Any and all reviews posted are based solely on my own experience and may be atypical. Please practice due diligence in making any related purchase decisions.

Love Around the Block Facebook Party

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

(Video by June Sass Fuentes from A Wise Woman Builds her Home)

Remember on my Facebook page when I mentioned I had some exciting news for this morning? Well here it is! Some of my favorite bloggers and I are hosting a Facebook party all about love on February 7th! Please click on the image below to read all about the event, the giveaways, and more!

The Hostesses and Topics

A Wise Woman Builds Her Home - Love of Hospitality
Far Above Rubies - Loving Your Home
Under the Golden Apple Tree - Homeschool Love
The Modest Mom - Loving Your Children
Like a Bubbling Brook - Loving the Body of Christ
Raising Mighty Arrows - Loving Your Husband

My Sponsors

All About Learning Press
Doorposts

We Choose Virtues
Time Engineers

Visit the Love Around the Block Party page to find out all the details and get a peek at ALL the sponsors!

Join us for a fun filled night all about LOVE!

If you are a company or business who would be interested in sponsoring this event please email me at richele@underthegoldenappletree.com. This will be an amazing opportunity to introduce your business to potential customers.

Going Semi-Unplugged for a Week

noreply@blogger.com (Richele) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 13:59:00 +0000

Next week I are banning television, internet and the video game system....almost entirely. I say almost not because we are addicted but because I work online and my son does the bulk of his school online. The thought just came to me so I did not plan ahead and will still have to work. I am also going to allow one school documentary a day. I have been wanting to get those documentaries in anyway.

The only difficulty I see is for my 6 year old who loves to watch TV in the morning and after we get done with lessons and my son not knowing how to cope without playing a video game. My 14 year old and my 3 year old will be perfectly fine. While my 14 year old has email accounts, a blog, a Facebook page, a Tumbler account, Twitter and a cell phone, she rarely uses any of it. She is actually looking forward to a ban on these things.

Why am I doing this?

I have heard from those who unplugged how much more time they feel they have, how simpler life became, and the valuable lessons they learned. My focus is on detoxing from the streams of incoming subtle messages that diverge from the values I want to instill. Lately, I have noticed that I didn't notice how much TV and video games are on in my home. I also feel like I can't get a step ahead and many who have taken a break from TV and internet feel they can reclaim their schedules.

Remember I said semi-unplugged. You will still find me on Facebook for about five minutes every morning due only to a project and a fun little surprise some fellow bloggers and I have cooked up. So, five Facebook minutes, work, and that's it! I am considering getting ahead on work and going offline completely for a week but this time it wasn't planned out.

Have a wonderful week! You will see a fun post on Monday and Facebook update about that fun little surprise I mentioned. I will report back with how the week went.