There are some lessons we learn with age and maturity. One of the lessons that most younger folk have to learn is from the book of Ecclesiastes. (Yes, I acknowledge that I am moving into the Older Folk category.)

What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.

My Favorite Boy has a few more years before he will understand this. I couldn't help but smile when he came home this week and said, "My friend made up a new game on the playground! It's called Boys Chase Girls!"

I didn't have the heart to tell him his new game is the oldest game in history! :)

Labels: My Favorite Boy

Since my Favorite Boy started school in mid-August, my Best Girl and I have had quite a bit of girl time. Although she has missed her big brother, my Best Girl has enjoyed having mom to herself as well. We have gone to story time, treated ourselves to Krispy Kreme donuts, shopped for groceries, and we even ate lunch at Target one day (what a treat!).

Yesterday, we decided to surprise our Favorite Boy and Daddy with some brownies. My Best Girl was a great helper, but I am pretty sure she violated several health codes by sucking her thumb while stirring.


Next Thursday, my Best Girl has orientation at her preschool/Mother's Day Out program. After that, she will attend on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9-2. We won't be together 24/7 like we have been, but we will still have plenty of time for more girly fun!

Labels: My Best Girl

It's the last Tuesday of the month, so it's time for the What's on Your Nightstand carnival at 5 Minutes for Books. This is my current pile.

Pride and Prejudice is at the top of the stack. I am rereading this for the Classics Bookclub. I have one week left to finish it, so I am going to have to speed up a little bit (I am halfway finished). I am also reading Unbridled Dreams by Stephanie Whitson. It is a tale set in the time of Bill Cody, Annie Oakley, and the Wild West Show. I am enjoying it.

Coming up next are The Edge of Recall, Rush Home Road, and Nextville. I will be reviewing all of these books (as well as Unbridled Dreams) at 5 Minutes for Books in the future, so stay tuned.

The last book in my stack is Love as a Way of Life. It was there last month as well, but I haven't gotten to it yet. I will try to read it before you come back to visit my book pile at the end of September.

I look forward to seeing What's on Your Nightstand. Happy Reading!

P.S. For my comments on Mozart's Sister and Just Jane, two of my books from last month, click here. For my thoughts on Finding Stefanie, click here.

Labels: Books

Coming tomorrow at 5 Minutes for Books...



Coming September 22 at Callapidder Days...



I hope all you book lovers will plan to participate!

Labels: Books

I am a very casual person. Most of the time, I have on a t-shirt and capris with very little makeup. In all honesty, I often go out without improving my appearance at all. I usually go to the library immediately after aerobics class, looking and smelling as lovely as you would expect after 45-60 minutes of cardio. (I have run into Stephanie like this twice. Stephanie, I promise that I really do shower on occasion.)

Last week, I had to attend a meeting at my Favorite Boy's school. Because of this, I put on nicer clothes and makeup. Before I left, my Best Girl said, "Mom, you look so beautiful!" Her compliment helped me head to the meeting with a spring in my step. (Yes, she's only three, but I'll take a compliment when I can get one.)

Then, as I pulled into the school parking lot, I spilled my water, and I got to walk into the office looking like a nice mom who happens to wet her pants. Oh, well. I tried!

Labels: Fun

I am still taking a break, but you can find me here today. Have a great Thursday!

Labels: Blogging, Books

I am experiencing a little bit of Blogger Burnout, so I am going to take a little break! I'll be back soon!

Labels: Blogging

Due to a lack of creative energy on my part, this post is a simple update on what's been going on around here.

School
Last week, I mentioned that my Favorite Boy didn't want to go to school anymore because it "cut into his playtime." I am happy to report that the school day didn't seem as long on Thursday and Friday because he is "getting used to it." I think he would still choose to stay home and play, but he likes his teacher and classmates. I am looking forward to a good year.

Our Weekend
We had a busy weekend. On Friday evening, my Best Girl got a fever. By Saturday morning, she was complaining that her throat was hurting. I took her to the doctor's office for a strep test. It was negative, and the diagnosis was Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease. She is feeling much better today.

My Favorite Boy spent Saturday celebrating. He went to one birthday party at Jump Zone and another birthday party at a friend's house where they swam and had a karate lesson with the birthday boy's karate instructor. After all that activity, my Favorite Boy slept very soundly on Saturday evening. Sunday afternoon, my Favorite Boy and my husband headed to the ball fields to take batting practice. Our first fall ball practice is Monday night. My Favorite Boy is moving up an age bracket this fall. They will keep score now, and the mound and bases are much farther away. He is excited; I am just hoping the transition is a smooth one.


Books
In my What's On Your Nightstand post, I mentioned Just Jane and Mozart's Sister. I wanted to report that I enjoyed both of these books. Neither of them was fast-paced, but they were fascinating. I liked Just Jane because it gave me a greater appreciation for Jane Austen's life and a better contextual understanding of her novels. I found Mozart's Sister intriguing. I had never really thought about what it would be like to grow up in the shadow of such a prodigious sibling. Both of these novels made me thankful for our lives in the present day. Although I am certainly no feminist, I am glad that women do not have to marry or depend on generous relatives simply to have a roof over their heads and food on the table. It was sad to me that women with the talents of Jane Austen and Nannerl Mozart were forced to rely on others for most of their lives. If you enjoy historical fiction as I do, check out Just Jane and Mozart's Sister. I also plan to read Washington's Lady by the same author.

Have a great day!

Labels: Books, Hodgepodge

Several months ago, I reviewed Susan May Warren's books Reclaiming Nick and Taming Rafe. To read about these books, click here.

Because I enjoyed these stories, I looked forward to the release of Finding Stefanie, the final book in Mrs. Warren’s Noble Legacy series. Stefanie Noble has always been the responsible one; she stayed home to run the ranch while her brothers sowed their wild oats. Now, however, she is assessing her life and wondering if it is all she hoped it would be. When a famous actor moves to town, Stefanie's life turns upside down, and she is forced to deal with the dreams and struggles she has kept hidden for many years.

Finding Stefanie is the kind of story that is easy to read and difficult to put down. As a character, Stefanie is relatable, and her struggles will ring true with many women. My only disappointment was that I figured out most of the ending ahead of time. All three books in the series follow a similar pattern, and this prepared me for the final chapters. I still enjoyed the book, however, and I was sad to say good-bye to the Noble family.

If you are interested in this book and would like to read the first chapter, click here.

Additionally, Susan May Warren is hosting a contest. Grab your magnifying glass and join in a Fact-o-Find! Just answer these questions about the bloggers on the Finding Stefanie blog tour and be entered to win a $50 gift certificate to the movie theater of your choice! Email Amy your answers (amy@susanmaywarren.com).

Ready, get set, giddy-up!

1. Which blogger is adopting a girl from China?
2. This word 'featherbunkle' is found on which blog?
3. Which blogger is supporting the 'Pickens Plan'?
4. Which blog is "The Cutest Blog on the Block"?
5. Which blogger is a S@HM and also a wife, daughter, sister, friend, nursery director, and woman that is just trying to keep it all together?
6. Which blogger is taking the Southern Reading Challenge?
7. Which blog asks 'How may we serve you'?
8. Which blogger refers to her son as 'super good big guy'?
9. Which blogger is a self-proclaimed 'Starbucks Addict'?
10. Which blogger is a big Trekkie?

Martha at Our Family’s Adventures
Trish at Books for Moms
Sunny at Life in the Estrogen Ocean
Deborah at A Cup of Joy
Julie at Waves of Grace
Camy at Camy’s Loft
Amy at Amy’s Random Thoughts
Gina at Portrait of a Writer
Lena a Christian Writer’s World
Leticia at My Daily Trek
Laura at Lighthouse Academy
Melissa at Breath of Life
Lori at Laurel Wreath’s
Ronie at Supernatural Craving
Erica at On the Right Path
Deborah at Books, Movies, and Chinese Food
Heather at Fresh Sweet Peas
Christy at Christy’s Book Blog
Beth at The Writing Road
Cee Cee at Book Splurge
Kate at A Simple Walk
Dineen at Kittens Come From Eggs
Joy at Five J's
Paula at Grace Reign
Rel at Relz Reviewz
Deena at A Peek At My Bookshelf
Patty at Girlfriends in God
Peg at Sips & Cups Cafeteria
Cara at Cara’s Musings
Pattie at Fresh Brewed Writer
Amy at My Friend Amy
AnnMarie at More Than Just A Mom
Janis at The Nearsighted Bookworm
Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood
Teresa at Joy In the Journey
Lynetta at Open Book
Betsy at Betsy Ann…Writer At Large
Susan at His Reading List
Tiffany at A Fiction Filled Life
Pamela at Pammer’s Ramblins
Lauren at Baseballs and Bows
Brittanie at A book Lover Forever

Labels: Books

For more WW, click here.

Labels: My Favorite Boy, Wordless Wednesday

After begging to go to preschool and kindergarten, my Favorite Boy is now asking to quit school. Apparently, he doesn't want to attend first grade because school really cuts into his play time.

I hope his attitude improves as he gets involved in the school year and moves away from the memories of summer fun. He may not change his mind, but I guess now is as good a time as any to learn that work comes before play!

Labels: My Favorite Boy

I am participating in the first Children's Classics carnival at 5 Minutes for Books. Today's topic is classic chapter books for the middle grade reader (ages 8-12). I decided to mention a favorite from my own childhood, From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler.

When I read this book in fourth grade, Claudia Kincaid was my hero. After carefully planning, Claudia runs away with her brother Jamie to the Metropolitan Museum of Art where they live undetected for a week. I didn't really want to run away, but the thought of planning such an trip and actually carrying it out was thrilling! I loved how Claudia and Jamie hid in the bathrooms during museum closing, took baths in the fountain, and slept on the famous furniture. The future teacher in me also respected Claudia for making sure they took advantage of the many educational opportunities in the museum. While I was glad they ended up safe at home, tagging along with Claudia and Jamie on this exciting and mysterious journey was such an adventure!

If you have never read this classic, I highly recommend it. I look forward to my daughter enjoying it with me one day. If you have a classic chapter book to recommend, or if you want to read the suggestions of others, head over to 5 Minutes for Books today!

Labels: Books, Children's Books

I posted on Friday about how much my kids enjoyed the rides at the fair. I also wanted to share my favorite part, the Little Ones Farming exhibit.

As we entered the farming area, some ladies welcomed us and offered aprons to the kids. My Best Girl was more than willing; my Favorite Boy passed on the apron experience.

First, the kids gathered corn and fed the chickens. They also gathered eggs. (The animals were fake, but everything looked very realistic.)

Next, they picked apples in the orchard.


After planting some of their corn, they were able to "pick" crops like corn, peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

For both of my kids, the best part of the farming experience was milking the cow.

When the milking was finished, they took their crops, eggs, and milk to a farmer's market where they were able to exchange their goods for "cash." With their hard-earned money, they could purchase an ice cream sandwich, animal crackers, an apple, or some milk. It was so cute!

Of course, no farming experience is complete without meeting some real animals. We saw pigs, ponies, alpacas, chickens, rabbits, and more. These were two of my favorites. (I am not sure a camel is a farm animal, but it was fun to see one just the same.)


We enjoyed learning about life on a farm, and my post doesn't adequately show how wonderful the exhibit was. The organizers did a great job making it fun and educational.

While my kids still voted the rides the best part of the fair, I enjoyed getting a taste of life on the farm (and I was thankful to have a few minutes that did not involve spinning around in circles)!

Labels: Family and Friends, Fun, My Best Girl, My Favorite Boy

Our county fair is this week. I am not sure who planned to have a county fair in Tennessee during the first week of August, but that's when ours is every year. Thankfully, we had a break from the heat and humidity yesterday, so the Baseballs and Bows crew headed to the fairgrounds. As an added bonus, Papa was passing through town, so he went with us.

Like most kids, my children were most excited about the rides. Here are a few of the things we enjoyed on the midway. For the record, I rode the Pirate and the Tilt-A-Whirl with my kids so they could ride. This is evidence that I am willing to lay down my life for my children. There are no pictures of this because you really don't want to see me (a person who suffers from extreme motion sickness) after experiencing those rides. I kept my eyes closed throughout both rides, and I was still nauseous for about 2 hours. Can't they make fair rides that don't make people sick?

This was our first ride. I think these are fish. Whatever they are, my Best Girl enjoyed them, but they moved a little too slowly for my Favorite Boy's taste.

They both loved the Rockin' Tug and the ride that was like the teacups.


My Best Girl had been looking forward to the Ferris Wheel all week (they put it right next to the interstate for all to see). Unfortunately, she wasn't tall enough to ride. She handled the disappointment well, however, and we waved to my Favorite Boy and Papa as they waited to go.

Another favorite ride for both of the kids was the kiddie coaster. You can see the joy on their faces.


My Favorite Boy also enjoyed a ride called Fly.

After several hours of spinning rides, it was time to head for home. My Best Girl hitched a ride to the car.

We had a great time on (most of) the rides. Come back later for part two of our fun evening at the fair!

Labels: Family and Friends, Fun, My Best Girl, My Favorite Boy

Earlier this week, Jana tagged me for the 6 Random Things meme. Because this is our last week of summer vacation, I decided to go with a Back to School theme.

1. In kindergarten, a little boy asked if I would switch mats with him during nap time. I did. He then went and told the teacher that I was lying on his mat. I got my hand smacked with a ruler. Obviously, I am still frustrated by this unjust punishment.

2. In second grade, I got glasses. I was called "four-eyes" by another little boy who had to take his own glasses off before he had the nerve to call me a name.

3. I loved my kindergarten, second, and fourth grade teachers. My first and third grade teachers were not my favorites. I grew up and taught first and third grade, and I always tried to be the kind of teacher that children would remember fondly.

4. My second grade teacher read Ramona the Pest as one of her after lunch read-alouds. Ramona remains one of my all-time favorite characters.

5. In third grade, I got married on the playground. I started writing my married name on my papers. My third grade teacher was not amused (see #3). I think I also tried to use my middle name in third grade. That didn't work out either.

6. We didn't have busing in my school system. Other than special education students, parents were responsible for transporting their kids to and from school (yes, it was a public school system). I didn't realize that people rode buses to school until I was in college. I thought buses were just for field trips.

There you have six random things about my elementary school years. If you decide to play along, let me know!

Labels: Fun

Labels: My Best Girl, Wordless Wednesday

Tuesdays are shaping up to be a fun day of the week at 5 Minutes for Books. Last week was the first What's On Your Nightstand? carnival that will be held on the last Tuesday of each month. The participation was great (over 70 participants), and I really enjoyed taking a peek at what others are reading.


The debut of the Classics Bookclub, which will be held on the first Tuesday of each month, will be September 2. The first bookclub selection is Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. If you need a little encouragement to join, please read my post from Sunday about challenging yourself.


Additionally, Jennifer is announcing information today about a Children's Classics carnival. It will be on the second Tuesday of each month. Be sure to check it out.


I hope you will consider joining one or all of these fun events!

Labels: Books

I can't believe it's time for school to start; we have one more week of summer vacation. This morning, my Favorite Boy went in for a reading assessment and to meet his teacher. His first day is next Monday.

I am really pleased with his teacher so far. Although she is new to our school, she has enough experience to be comfortable with teaching, and she is young enough to be energetic and excited. My Favorite Boy liked her a lot.


Although I am not having a breakdown about school like I did last year, I am sorry to see the summer ending. I have enjoyed us being together all day, and I will miss him when school starts next week!

Labels: My Favorite Boy

Last night, I got to be young again. I have been meeting with the high school girls from my church for some lessons and fun since January. All of us who are working with this group threw a slumber party for the girls last night. Our focus for the evening (and morning) was "Striving for Purity", and we based our sleepover on the book And the Bride Wore White.

We had an excellent evening full of studying, sharing, and fun. I fell asleep around 2:30, but I know some of the girls were up until 4. We forced them to get up this morning at 9, and we served them breakfast and tea using fine china and tea cups. The girls got to take the cups and saucers home as a reminder that they are a priceless and treasured creation of God. We want them to remember to treat themselves as such and to expect the boys in their lives to do the same. I was really encouraged by the way they listened as we "older women" shared with them, and I think they truly enjoyed the evening.

I came home to find that my daughter slept all night (very rare). She was proud that she didn't wake Daddy. I said, "Great! You can sleep through the night again tonight." She replied, "No! I won't have to do that. You will be here, and I will want to see you."

Sometimes it would be nice if I weren't loved and needed quite so much, especially at 3:00 A.M. Although I hung out with the teenagers last night, my sleepless mind doesn't function quite like it did when I was in my younger years!

Labels: Family and Friends

Congratulations to Elizabeth! She is the lucky winner of My Heart Remembers. Thanks to everyone who commented!

Labels: Books