The Christian Mama's Guide to Baby's First Year: by Erin MacPherson

I am a mother of a “college age” son and daughter.  I am well beyond the child bearing years.  You might wonder why I’m reading and reviewing The Christian Mama’s Guide to Baby’s First Year by Erin MacPherson.  Well, I know a lot of expecting mothers, and have been invited to many baby showers this year.  I've been looking for a book to include as a gift that is practical, encouraging, humorous, and Christ based.  I am so happy to say that I've finally found all that in this book; a perfect gift for a “mama-to-be”! 

As I read this book, I was so excited to learn that this guide is written in the spirit that believes a child is a gift from God.  We are not meant to raise a child all on our own.  It is so helpful to partner with someone who has walked a similar path.  This guide is that companion.  It touches on subjects such as breast feeding (including breast feeding FAQs), diaper choices (and wow, there are a lot of choices now), and finding some “me” time (when you feel overwhelmed and utterly exhausted). Oh how I wish I had this book 23 years ago!

I really like the eye catching cover of this book. My only negative feedback is that I wish the cover was a bit sturdier.  If a new mom continues to reference this book during their child’s first year of life … it may not hold up quite as well.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition

I tried the Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition on my hair and on my skin.  If I'm being honest, I thought it made my hair look greasy so I didn't think that was successful. Maybe it's because my hair is not very dry to begin with.  Perhaps it works better if you are trying to correct dry or frizzy hair.

I liked it better when using on my skin.  It gave my legs a nice glow and did not feel greasy.  I also put some on my hands with nice results.

I guess I'm a bit baffled by this product.  It's from a company I associate with hair products, but I liked it better on skin.

I participated as a BzzAgent and received this free product as part of the campaign.  I am sharing my own honest opinion.

Simple Truth Products

I've recently tried some of the "Simple Truth" products that are now available through my local Kroger grocery store.  I've been very pleased with the quality and variety of offerings.

The big favorite so far has been the Simple Truth Chocolate Almond Milk.  It was creamy and indulgent.  I usually drink the Silk brand Chocolate Soy Milk, but I really did enjoy the Almond Milk.  Another snack I enjoyed was the Vegetable Chips; made from various root vegetables.  They were fresh, crispy, and are even visually appealing.  I also picked up some frozen raspberries that I haven't tried yet ... but I see a fruit smoothie in the near future.

I participated as a BzzAgent and received free products as part of the campaign. I am sharing my own honest opinion.

Cafe Escapes (k-cup)

If you are a k-cup user, I'd recommend trying Cafe Escapes. You don't have to just be a big coffee drinker to enjoy these. My favorite has been the "Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa". It was so yummy on a cold night.

I'm also a big tea drinker, and they have a great tasting Chai Latte. It's a more cost effective way of getting something special to drink in the comfort of your own home. A lot less than a "chain" coffee shop. I'm even considering lobbying for a k-cup machine to use at work. Wish me luck!

I participated as a BzzAgent and received free coffee, cocoa, and tea samples as part of the campaign. I am sharing my own honest opinion.

New Product: Glad Expressions Oil Diffuser

I just tried a new product called Glad Expressions Oil Diffuser.  The scent I selected is  "Lavender & Juniper Berry".  I placed it in my guest bathroom and it provides a nice continuous scent to both the bathroom and the surrounding area.

I also like the look of the diffuser.  It fits in nicely with my decor.  I was very pleasantly surprised that the scent was not too over powering.

It is a bit pricey when you buy the starter set, but they do sell refills that are more cost effective.  I recommend you give it a try!

I participated as a BzzAgent and received a free Glad Expressions Oil Diffuser as part of the campaign. I am sharing my own honest opinion.

Unglued Devotional by Lysa Terkeurst

Unglued Devotional by Lysa Terkeurst is a wonderful 60 day devotional.  Lysa subtitles the book by referring to it as 60 days of imperfect progress.   I can relate to that sentiment.  We are imperfect, striving to live a more pleasing life in the eyes of our Creator, our families, and our world.  It speaks to the part of me that is trying to be less reactionary and more present in life’s circumstances.  This devotional is helping me along that path.

Each daily devotional has a quirky title like … “The Root of My Rot” or “Resist the Funk” or “Pizza Man Grace”.  There is also a scripture verse, thought for the day, and a prayer.  They are quick to read and easy to relate to. 

I know you’ll enjoy the way this devotional will inspire you without criticizing you.  The thought for today is “The best thing for me to do is position my heart in a place where I can experience God”.  I like that so that is what I’ll strive for today.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

20,0000 Days and Counting: by Robert D. Smith

 20,000 Days and Counting by Robert D. Smith is a quick read with some thought provoking ideas. How do we measure our time here on earth and determine our worth?  As I sit here today, I've been alive exactly 18,036 days.  Maybe that means I’m ahead of the curve.  By God’s Grace I still have time to live each day to its fullest; to live abundantly. Perhaps this book can point me in that direction.

At the beginning of each chapter, there are quotes from people who have lived throughout the ages. I especially enjoyed one from a person who lived exactly 20,830 days: “Take care of the things you need to take care of today.” This is practical advice from Horace, a Roman poet who lived from December 8, 65 BC to November 27, 8 BC.; words that can be put to use many, many years later.

I think you’ll enjoy the way this book challenges you to eat dessert first, say yes, and ask yourself these two important questions … “What is important right now to you?” and “What is next for you?” Don't forget to go the website theRobertD.com to find out how many days you've been alive.  It may spark you on to even greater things.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.