This book is 45th in The American Adventure Series and it's set in Seattle, Washington in 1939-1940. Some of the historical events include the increased use of media (radio dramas, comic books) for entertainment, the tension in America as WWII started, and the discrimination against Japanese-Americans in the time period. I appreciate how the characters grow in each book, presenting realistic glimpses into what ordinary life was like in different time periods. In this book, Audrey struggles with being teased for her good grades and participation at school. She also has conflicting emotions about how a disabled girl is treated and also how to interact with the girl socially. Finding her place in her family, which seems to change as she grows, is also touched on in a heart-warming manner. |
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A few date night ideas that won't break the bank or take a load of planning and prepping. 1. Go for a Walk TogetherChoose the time of day, location (we enjoy state parks and near lakes, but downtown might be your thing!), and make sure you dress comfortably and don't rush. It's beautiful to walk in different seasons-both weather seasons and seasons of life- with the one you love. 2. The Shopping DateIt's only a treat to shop without the kids if you take the time to enjoy each other's company. When my husband and I run errands together, it can go a few different ways depending on the scenario. First, it can be mundane, boring. Naturally, since buying peanut butter and floss isn't particularly exciting... Secondly, it can be stressful, especially if there is a time restriction and a long list. Third, it can be a lot of fun if we loosen up. I let my husband gawk when we walk by the toy aisle. He loves to push the noisy toy buttons. I take the time to look around at the items not on my list and comment on the hilarious things a person can notice in a store if they take the time to be attentive. We let each other splurge on an item that's under $5. Just because. 3. Have Dinner In and/or a Movie InYes, in. If you've got kids and are able to have them babysat off location- maybe at a close friend's or relative's, then you've got your own home to yourselves. While sometimes it's nice to get out of the house for some new scenery, it can be really, really awesome to enjoy the house to yourselves. If you don't want to cook and are able to pick up take-out or order delivery, go for it. I love being able to pause the movie we're watching if we need more popcorn. My husband makes kettle corn that rivals... actually, beats movie theatre popcorn. You can snuggle much more closely and comfortably on a couch, futon, or bed at home watching a movie than you can in those theatre chairs. 4. Slow Dance in Your Living Room or Bedroom
6. K.I.S.S. My husband was taught the acronym K.I.S.S. to mean "Keep it simple, Stupid." when he was young. Now, I disagree with the original definition, but I sure like the acronym. How about "Keep it Stresslessly Simple." I know I just made up a word there, but it works. Build a campfire or sit at a coffeshop that has a fireplace. Hug each other for more than 20 seconds. Listen when the other person tells you about their very ordinary day. Offer compliments and encouragement. Oh, and kiss like it may be the last time you can kiss your spouse. Be grateful for the memories you have and can create together.
Since this book functions both as a devotional and a coloring book, I'll review both aspects individually.
Let's dig in!
This giveaway is a little late to the party since I reviewed the film a few weeks ago, but it makes up for tardiness with quality! An Eco Smart Certified Organic Cotton Canvas bag with sturdy rope handles and a leather-look journal which says "Goodbye Christopher Robin" on the front and features a cute balloon on the back cover. The journal has a ribbon bookmark, elastic closure, and plenty of blank lined pages for your thoughts, dreams, goals and/or doodles.
Below are some additional pictures of the prizes. Check your email for a "WINNER NOTIFICATION: CANVAS BAG + JOURNAL" message at the end of the giveaway. As always, I do not require you to sign up for blog updates or newsletters to enter my email so you can enter my giveaways without dealing with more incoming to your inboxes.
Along with learning more about the Depression than I was ever taught in school, my children learned great lessons on compassion and treating others with dignity and respect regardless of their lot in life. The children in the story meet a displaced teen and while they are reminded of the real dangers of riding the rails and the gathering places of groups of homeless people, a theme of genuine care for others is consistent. When a family is struggling to feed themselves, yet they yearn to help others in worse conditions, what can and should be done? This is one of the questions struggled with through this narrative.
As always, I give warning flags to any content which may be too intense for sensitive readers/listeners. This plot includes a teen retelling how his friend was killed by slipping down under a moving train when they were riding illegally (holding onto the outside of the cars). The description was not gorey, but it did include some suspense and evoked concern and sadness from my children. Since we've previously discussed the hazards of trains, I was able to navigate this section while reading it word-for-word to my kids. You may want to pre-read chapter 8 to decide whether you want to paraphrase or omit portions for a sensitive child. I highly recommend this series as presenting history in an age-appropriate, engaging context with relevant and challenging moral dilemmas overcome by the characters in every book. They are great read-alouds as they keep both my youngest child and myself interested!
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January 2022
Blog Hopping?I am not much of a blog reader. There's only a couple I check on occasion:
HisPoetry.blogspot.com Love this girl's writing... feels like she's a long distance friend. Well, her sister is my long-distance friend, so that probably helps. Either way, what an inspiration and encouragement- you just need to check out some of the places life has taken Leah and be strengthened and inspired by the love that oozes (yes, oooozes) from her heart for Jesus, His people and His creation! chocolatecoveredkatie.com If you like nummy recipes, or have special dietary needs (or both!) check it out. ALL of her recipes are Vegan, and many can be made gluten-free. I stumbled upon it when searching for dairy/egg free treats to make for my kiddo and have gotten hooked on several recipes. Okay, "hooked on" doesn't portray it well enough. How about "addicted to"? That's more fitting. Will definitely be going back for more! |