Book Review: Secrets Kids Know

I promised a few book reviews, where does the time go???

I received a copy of Secrets Kids Know... That Adults Ought to Learn  by Allen Klein for free in exchange for a honest review of the book. It is always a pleasure to receive a new book.  Review books get special priority in my limited reading alone time, so I enjoy the privilege of doing so!

Allen Klein is a self-professed "Joyologist" whose mission is to spread joy and teach others to do the same.  I can honestly say, his genuine happiness, and love for making others smile can be felt as one reads the book.

This simple to read, though thought provoking book, will touch your heart and inspire you to examine your own life.  Remember the joke book giveaway?  How many times does a 4 year old laugh in a day? 400 times is the answer. On the other hand, 40 year olds laugh about 4--maybe!

There are strains and responsibilities, for sure. However, we are called to be like little children. To view God's world with innocent joy and wonder.  How sad it is that we lose that so readily!

Klein's book is part information, part inspiration, and part how to get your childlike mindset back.  In the seriousness of living in the "real world" we adult forget that it is the same world that wowed us as children and left us rolling on the floor in laughter.

This book was a pleasure to read and is so nicely laid out. The format aids us busy, serious adults with too many "important tasks' on our docket to easily read a chapter here and there and learn from a master of joy, Allen Klein. At the end of each chapter is a section of tips and tricks so the reader can learn to "Grow Down."  Tired of trying to grow up?  Wish you hadn't been in such a rush to be a "grown up"?  This book is for you!

I am thankful to have been given this book and fully intend to read it a second time!  When life is seemingly difficult and the carefree days of childhood too distant of a vague memory, this book was a breath of fresh air!  I needed this and truly need to sit down and try Mr. Klein's method to recapture my joy!  Thank you, Allen Klein, for the privilege of discovering this sweet and honest little book.

Need a nice little stocking stuffer that will keep giving through out the year?  Pick up a copy of Secrets Kids Know--the Adults Ought to Learn by Allen Klein!  {Speaking of Christmas shopping, please remember to check out the Mom Shop Hop and buy from some hard working moms this year!}

How do you keep your childlike ways?

Christmas is Coming--A Shopping Guide

Here are my quick takes, I didn't number them, I think there are seven.  I may be wrong.  Either way, linking up with Kelly for this Friday after Thanksgiving. 

Christmas is coming the goose is getting fat....actually I think the goose has nothing on me right now.  I'm feeling very round!  Hubby says that is a good thing, he also says I look like a grape--I'm taking that as a term of endearment!  I can't believe Christmas is right around the corner!  This baby will be here before we know it.  As much as I want to savor every moment of pregnancy, I am getting itchy to cuddle this little love in my arms!  I'm already getting the best present ever, but for the rest of you, have you started shopping?

I really like to shop from local and small businesses. There is something about knowing the person who made what you are buying that is so gratifying.  Every year I try to highlight a few of my favorite businesses to introduce you to their products and give my favorite vendors a bit of free publicity. This year I am focusing on Catholic vendors.

The wonder of the internet is that "local" takes on a new meaning.  I can purchase items from across the country or around the world and still build up a relationship with the vendor. Many have become special friends, as well.  So please indulge me as I present my picks for this year!

Fleur de Lis Veils

A new apostolate and new Internet friend, Marsha is a woman with a big heart and a growing business.  Her veils are beautiful and prepared with such loving care.  Whatever your veiling preference, Marsha has a veil for you.  Veils begin at only $25.  Each veil package includes a veil, prayer card, pouch to keep the veil clean, snap on clip to keep the veil in place, and a free gift. I can't wait for my veil to arrive.  I ordered the black medium sized veil, pictured below, and am also receiving an infinity veil that is a gift for a friend.  Here is a peak at some of her veils, you can learn more about them at her website. (More is being added each day!)

 

Isn't this pink veil darling for a young girl?

 

I so look forward to wearing this one to baby's baptism.

 This long veil is so striking from the back.

From Marsha:
"Our veil apostolate is an extension of our family. The many women who buy veils from us sometimes pay us a visit not only to purchase their veils but also to pray for the intentions of those who we have already connected with in the past. We are like a circle of prayer chains-unbroken and ever evolving.  We pray before we purchase veils and after they have been bought.  We pray together four times in a day and we are fortunate to have an adoration chapel nearby.

Our veils are chosen not only for how they look but also we keep them as comfortable and long-lasting as possible.  We travel out of town and out of the country to purchase the veils that our customers request us to make.  We all have different requirements and preferences and we truly understand the women who express specific preferences. in their choice of veils.  My husband works as a Project Coordinator in an acoustic manufacturing company and is responsible for designing products that also include overseeing the quality of fabric design and such.  Hence, he is a "quality improvement expert" and inspects every potential threat to quality in the final veil product."

Dolls from Heaven 

Do you remember the beautiful St Therese doll that premiered last Christmas?  Well, Dolls from Heaven has a new, saintly doll for that special little girl.  Introducing St Joan of Arc. 

" As you probably remembered we started our company Dolls from Heaven a year ago, with St. Therese as our first doll and we have been working hard in bringing another saint doll whose story will be  a great inspiration to all, especially to young girls. We are very excited to introduce to you our newest saint doll, "St. Joan of Arc," a young peasant girl who was called by God to save her beloved France from the English invaders during the hundreds' year war. She became the commander in Chief of the armies of France during a time when the thought of a woman going war, nevertheless, leading an army was unthinkable. We hope St. Joan of Arc's doll and story will teach children to be brave and that nothing is impossible with God.  Also this doll will be perfect for a special horse lover in your family. :) "

 

Battle Beads

The owner of Battle Beads, Mary, is a very special friend of mine.  Our friendship began when I first discovered her website several years ago.  Over the years we have shared stories, and prayer requests, but what's more, her shop is always the first place I look when I need a gift. I have lost track of how many rosaries, sacrifice beads, and bracelets I have ordered--not nearly as many as I wish I could--but I can say this, every order has been absolutely perfect and beautiful.  Her one of a kind designs have delighted every recipient.  Here are just a few of her many creations.  If you don't see what you want, just email Mary.  She is always happy to accommodate custom orders and her prices are amazing for the level of craftsmanship, detail, and attention every piece receives.

 

Saint Clare's

This is my go to seed company, nit just because of their quality and prices, but because of the amazing customer service I have received. I also truly appreciate the amount of information provided on botht he seed packets and their website.  No more guessing how and when to plant. Run by a lovely family, please remember them when you are ordering seeds in a couple of months. 

BUT, there's more!!! Saint Clare's also produces and distributes high quality audiobooks.  Their collection is impressive and continually growing, as is my wishlist of what I want to order.  Audiobooks aren't just a great tool for homeschooling, they are also a wonderful source of entertainment.  Close off the screen, put away the games, and escape to a land of your own choosing in a book.  My children will do anything for a new audiobook!

If you thought it couldn't get better, here's a coupon code.  Now through Cyber Monday save 25% on everything St Clare's sells with code THANKS2016

 

 

Aurelius Cabrini

So perhaps it is wrong to feature myself, but I have created some new items and I am eager to present them to you.  Through my blog, I am offering a discount on all my items.  All my vocation peg dolls are only $3 plus shipping.  Faerie Leigh Modest Fairy dolls are only $2 plus shipping. Handkerchief baby bonnets are only $10 plus shipping.  Here is a small sampling of what I have created for recent orders from local customers. There are a couple more dolls in the works that I will post once they are finished.  Let me know what you like, every order is custom made with love.  

 

 

So what's your favorite Catholic shop?  I'm always looking for new ones.

 

  

 

Giving Gifts, Not Presents

I really believe that the best gifts aren't bought in a store.  If you are having trouble finding the perfect gift for that certain someone, check out this list of great last minute gifts that anyone can give.

The Gift of Time

For the past few years, my cousin has had my children over for pizza, a Christmas movie, and cupcake decorating.  That is their Christmas gift.  I think it is great!  However, I'm not the only one, my children look forward to it all year.  Despite all the other presents they open on Christmas, the only one they talk about all year is this simple get together.  It isn't the pizza and movie.  It isn't that the party is a lavish, over-the-top bash.  It is simple as simple can be.  What they like is the time they get with their "aunt" and cousins.  Is there some special time you could spend with someone special? Watching a movie, going for a hike, making ice cream sundaes, playing ball in the yard..the time will be the best gift you could ever give.

The Gift of Experience

As a general rule, we are not a family that gives big gifts.  Some of that has been due to financial constraints, but also we know money can't buy happiness.  Each year for our children's birthdays, they get to go on a special family trip.  We have been to museums, aquariums, historic trains (lots of historic trains), Medieval Times, and so many other places.  We don't give them all the same trip, it is their chose.  Some trips are big, some are small.  This year, Buddy wanted to go apple picking with his Aunt Kathy (who lives in Texas but was visiting) and have cider and donuts.  Almost six years ago, we were gifted with the use of a townhouse and took Cowgirl on her dream trip to Williamsburg, VA.    We have spent $30 to $300--but the real riches are the time we have spent together.  These trip shave opened opportunities to our children that have taught them so much.  They have also forced us to plan special family days that we would never take the time to do otherwise.  We don't buy souvenirs or go out for fancy meals--unless that is part of the trip plan--but the days are always treasures for all of us.  Is there a special place you could take your child or aunt?  Have you been to an art museum lately?  Has your love done ever attended a Jazz concert on the green?  Pick a special place, set a day and spend the day experiencing something new while you enjoy each other's company.  The memories will be priceless!

The Gift of Tradition

My mother was a person who lived for her family and holidays.  her house was not just decorated, it was decked out in every way and every room.  Through the years, many traditions arose around those decorating patterns, which by the way were for EVERY. SINGLE. HOLIDAY!  Unfortunately, Cowgirl was the only grandchild to have known my mother when she was still healthy, and was only a pre-schooler when she became ill.  She remembers but she doesn't.  All of the children are missing Grandma, and it got me to thinking about how much they missed of Grandma and all she would have done with them.  One of the many traditions, when we were small, was to make and decorate salt dough ornaments each year.  I know it is one of those traditions that would have extended to the grandchildren.  So this year, I am having my nieces and nephews over for a salt dough decorating party. This way the cousins can spend time together and get to know their Grandma along the way.  Do you have a special tradition that has been forgotten?  A special recipe you could teach to the next generation?  Keep the love going and build those traditions, again.

The Gift of Giving

I have said before that on St Nicholas Day, my children receive a gift that must be given away.  A few years ago, we began giving money for them to spend on the needy in the best way they find fit.  It is completely up to them.  They spend hours with charity gift catalogs finding the best and biggest combination of gifts for the money they received.  Last year, I wanted to honor friends who had given us so much--not just in things, but in love and support.  What could I give them?  They needed and wanted nothing.  So, I had a bio-sand filter built in their name and they were thrilled.  Their gift will keep on giving and bless so many, no doubt that gift will earn them some riches in Heaven as well.  Does your loved one have a favorite charity?  Is there a special project that you could contribute to and then visit with your loved one?  Or is there a charity that offers "gift cards" so they can pick the gift?  Their gift will bless not only them but those who receive its fruits.

The Gift of Prayer

We often think of Mass cards as gifts to give to grieving families, but there is no one who is not in need of a little extra prayer.  Mass cards are a simple way to honor your loved one and give them an everlasting gift.  I have given these for many birthdays, and even the children who have received them have been so thrilled to know that they are being prayed for.  Does your loved one have a devotion to a particular saint?  Find a shrine for that saint and request a Mass remembrance card.  Not sure about giving a Mass card, or your loved one is Christian, but not Catholic?  What if you create a Spiritual Bouquet, promising to offer certain prayers and devotions on their behalf?  Prayer is a one size fits all gift that is wealth beyond wealth, despite costing nothing but time and devotion.

I thought of this list because I have been searching high and low for a gift for my Goddaughter who is 14.  Tough age as far as gifts.  Nothing seemed quite right. I finally remembered how I always say it's not the buying that makes gifts special.   So, my gift to her is an "Adoration Dinner Date."  On a Friday where I can get babysitting (she is my go to babysitter), we are going to go out to dinner to the restaurant of her choice, then spend an hour at Adoration in prayer together.  Adoration is my favoirtie devotion, so this is really a combination of all five gifts--time, experience, tradition, giving, and prayer.  I am very excited to spend this time with her, especially the time we will have adoring Our LORD!

Do you have any gift suggestions to add?  I'd love to hear them.  I'm already planning for next year! 

Christmas is Coming in 7QT

It is three months until Christmas.  I always bawk at the media hype about how many shopping days remain until the feast day of consumerism and gluttony arrives.  However, I do like to prepare, and part of my preparing is shopping early so that when the beginning of Advent rolls around I can focus on celebrating the season and preparing for the Christmas feast, instead of standing in line at the mall. Below is a list of some Christmas gift ideas that I would like to share.

Linking up with Kelly who has been having a whole lot of fun at the World Meeting of Families.

This post contains affiliate links.  If you click on the links and purchase something, I will receive a small rewards for my efforts.  This helps support our homeschool.  Thanks.

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Do you remember the company that was raising funds to bring these beautiful dolls to fruition?  Well they are in production and will be ready for Christmas giving.  This beautiful St Therese doll is the perfect gift for the little girl in your life.  Be sure to look at the exquisite Sunday best dress, lovely accessories, and enchanting book.  Until October 3rd, use coupon code THERESE to save an 25% off of your order.  So many reasons to bring a Doll from Heaven home this holiday.

 

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How about giving the gift of exploring nature?  Harrington Harmonies has their notebooking bundle (affiliate link) on sale for only $17.95.  Pair it with some nice colored pencils (affiliate link) , and beautiful binder (affiliate link )for a truly unique gift.

 

 

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Have a homeschooling mom or inquisitive student in your life?  A Currclick gift card (affiliate link) may be the best gift.  Currclick offers live, hybrid, and self-paced classes (affiliate link).  Also, check out the wonderful lapbooks(affiliate link)  and e-books (affiliate link).  Need a little help getting organized?  There's a whole collection of planners (affiliate link).  Best of all it is all available instantly at very low prices

 

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Give the gift of faith and fun with my Holy Sisters dolls.  Order three dolls and get one free, simply message me which doll you would like free after ordering.  Until October 25th, use coupon code CHRISTMASISCOMING for an additional 10% off your entire order.  While at Aurelius Cabrini, check out my min hat pins, baby bonnets, and boutonnieres, something for everyone on your list. 

 

 

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Welcome to my newest venture--Young Living Essential Oils.  I am super excited to begin this business and help you care for your family naturally.  Give the gift of health and wellness this winter with Young Living products.  For only $41.25, you can give your loved ones a Basic Membership Kit plus a full sized bottle of some of the best selling oils including lemongrass, lemon, and cedar wood.  Plus your loved one receives wholesale prices and the opportunity to earn free products for an entire year.  Want to know more?  Visit my page, once we reach 100 likes, I am giving away a $10 gift certificate.

 

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Visit Elizabeth's Novel Designs for the sweetest doll clothes based on classic literature.  Elizabeth is a homeschooled young lady with a bright smile and a whole lot of talent.  If you don't see what you want, feel free to message her and request a custom order. Maybe you could pick up an extra outfit for your St Therese doll from above!

 

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In honor of Buddy, I am including a food option.  Thrive Market (affiliate link) is a great online store for everything natural and healthy.  They have amazing prices!  Stock up on a favorite snack or fill the stockings with nutritious food.  So much to chose from, you can get your shopping done in no time!