Pea of Sweetness

  • Home
  • My Shop
  • About Us
    • About Emilee & Pea of Sweetness
    • Awards
    • Contact Us
    • Disclosure Policy
    • Privacy Policy
  • Work with Me
    • PR Information & Media Kit
    • Sponsor/Advertising Info
    • Sponsorship Opportunties
  • Proudly Part Of
  • Blogs I Enjoy
  • Faith
  • Family
    • Parenting
      • Parenting Special Needs Children
    • Pets
  • Homeschooling
    • Homeschool Reviews
      • Preschool Reviews
    • Homeschooling Special Needs Children
    • 5 Days of Tips for Homeschool Parents
  • Homemaking
    • Meal Planning
    • Recipes
  • Special Needs
    • Autism
    • Sensory Processing Disorder
    • Cancer
  • Natural/Eco-friendly Living
    • Natural/Eco-friendly products
  • Health & Fitness
    • Health and Fitness
    • Wellness Wednesday
  • Reviews & Giveaways
    • Current Giveaways
    • Giveaway Linky
    • Reviews
    • Winners
    • Blogger Opps
  • Travel
    • Ohio Attractions
    • Ohio Events

Learning Ohio History and Facts the Fun Way! {By the Way Book Series Review}

March 2, 2017 by Emilee Evans

Although I was born and raised in Ohio I always find myself learning something new. That was most definitely the case as I read Ohio ~ Here We Come! from By the Way Book Series with the kids as well. Truth be told, I’ve generally not been all that excited about teaching History as it isn’t my forte, but I can’t believe how much we’ve learned about Ohio history and facts while having fun!
Nature Books With A Biblical Worldview {By the Way Book Series Reviews}
By the Way Book Series offers a variety of Children’s Nature Books with a Biblical World View and Values. Author, Joy Budensiek learned most Christian parents don’t actually talk to their children about God and spiritual matters. She started writing this series to help provide talking points for parent and children interaction. She has made sure to include regular references to scripture throughout the books. She has a goal to write 100 books including one book for each of our 50 states as well as different areas worldwide.
Each book follows adventures of a family with children named Alex and Lexi. In the Ohio ~ Here We Come! book, the family is driving from their home state of Pennsylvania to their aunt and uncle’s farm in Ohio. What I found most unique about the book is that it is written in a fun, story-like setting yet filled with SO many facts! I truly did learn quite a few things about my own state and it really kept all three kids engaged! Plus, throughout the story there are also “Spot It” type pictures the kids can find, which they loved. So here we are all sitting together learning all these amazing facts about Ohio and truly having fun while doing so!
Ohio History
At first, I wasn’t sure if reviewing the Ohio book was the best option since we actually live here. I was definitely curious about it, though, and on top of that, I am required to teach Ohio history. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, though. Is it more of a story or would I truly be teaching something? Would it count as “history” or just some fun nature facts? It went beyond that, though. It covers a lot of amazing facts from both the history of Ohio as well as present day. It isn’t just nature, either, though they do spend quite a bit of time talking about God’s wonderful creation.
In fact, I loved all the references to scripture. It didn’t feel forced or unnatural. It flowed very well with the story and helped us relate every day experiences with specific scripture. It made us consider many different things in regards to God’s creation. We learned about the state bird, things that are found outdoors in Ohio, farming, animals, etc., but we also learned about famous Ohioans, Native American tribes, aeronautics and so much more. Everyone’s favorite topic was dairy farms just because the kids know how much I love cows!
Learning Ohio History with By the Way Book Series
The book is broken down into topics and “Did you know?” boxes for detailed, individual facts. It is by no means a book that is too long to read in one sitting, but I really wanted to make sure the kids had a chance to let what they were learning soak in. So, I would sit down with all three of them at once and read four pages from the book. We would do this every other day or every day until we got through the book. After each sitting, we’d talk more about what we learned. I would add my own personal experiences if I had any, which made it personal as well, which was nice. It was fairly easy to break down the book in this way because each “topic” is generally covered in the two pages that are open together. It was great family time, too!

Learning Ohio History in a Fun Way

I am really glad we had the opportunity to review the Ohio ~ Here We Come! book. We did learn more about God’s creation in nature but really learned about Ohio History, in general, as well! It was a great way to learn about our home state, but I definitely would love to check out some of the other books to learn about other states as well! I think the one we’d most like to read next is the Smoky Mountains ~ Here We Come! book.

Connect with By the Way Book Series

Website | Facebook
Members of the Homeschool Review Crew reviewed the various titles currently available. Learn more about other titles and what their families thought by clicking on the banner below.
Nature Books With A Biblical Worldview {By the Way Book Series Reviews}
 
Crew Disclaimer
 

None Like Him {Book Review and Giveaway}

May 11, 2016 by Emilee Evans

I was recently introduced to the work of Jen Wilkin by our Women’s Bible Study group at church with her Study of Hebrews. Unfortunately, I fell behind, but I have been working on it at home, and I just love the way it’s presented and how she encourages us to study God’s Word. When I was given the opportunity to review the Jen Wilkin book None Like Him: 10 Ways God is Different From Us (and Why That’s a Good Thing).
None Like Him Book
Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this Jen Wilkin book review. This post contains affiliate links.
In None Like Him Jen Wilkin she shares how God is self-existent, self-sufficient, immutable, eternal, omniscient, omnipresent, omnipotent, infinite, sovereign, and incomprehensible. We are not, of course, and she goes into detail about each of these characteristics and, of course, relates personal stories and scriptural reference. I knew right from the Introduction on Becoming a God-Fearing Woman this book would be a huge blessing – not just for me, but for any woman who reads it.
What I found really makes this book unique is it’s not just a book you read through (although just the text alone is a blessing). She encourages us to dig deeper. She provides verses for meditation, questions for reflection, and a prayer. I have particularly found the questions helpful because, I admit, I often read through things quickly and then realize I didn’t actually take in everything I just read. With the questions, I’m challenged to really dig in to the meaning of the chapter – not just the words.
Overall, I am so glad I had the chance to review this Jen Wilkin book. I love the way it presented and encourages us to dig deep in the meaning. It not only helped me realize who God is, but also why I’m not those things, and why I don’t have to be. I think the Conclusion “Fearful and Wonderful” really helps bring it all together. We need to embrace our limits in light of our limitless God.
None Like Him: 10 Ways God is Different from Us (and Why That’s a Good Thing) can be purchased on Amazon. The paperback book is beautiful, and it’s available for Kindle as well.
Be sure to connect with Crossway Books on Facebook and Twitter.
 

*Giveaway!!!*

None Like Him Giveaway
Would you like to win a paperback copy of None Like Him? This giveaway will run through 5/21/16 at 11:59pm Eastern Time and is open to US and Canada ages 18+. Winner is subject to eligibility verification and will have 48 hours to confirm before a new winner will be drawn. For any questions/concerns please email emilee.roberts (at) peaofsweetness (dot) com (consider adding this email to your “Safe List” as winning email notification will be sent from this email).
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Please refer to the full terms and conditions in the Giveaway Tools.

Entry-Form

 
Pea of Sweetness is not responsible for prize fulfillment.
 

Don't Let Comparison Hijack your Life {I'm Happy for You Book Review}

December 1, 2015 by Emilee Evans

Ah comparison. It’s one of those things that can take over your life – even if you don’t realize you’re doing it. I know I am guilty of comparing – more often than I’d like to admit! In fact, I could even say comparison has fed my insecurity. I’m constantly feeling like I don’t “measure up,” but who is measuring? I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really) is a book I was really looking forward to reading!
I'm Happy for You Book
Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
About I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really)

Our cultural obsession with comparison is undercutting relationships and sapping contentment. With disarming candor and humor, Kay Wills Wyma explores how to trade comparison for compassion and rediscover what life is all about.
It’s easy to get caught in the comparison games we play with our appearances, our kids, and our homes. Kay reminds exhausted families about tried and true remedies from the pressures of competitive living.
In her warm, relatable style, Kay confronts the comparison epidemic raging in our homes, our neighborhoods, and our social-media feeds, offering remedies along the way.
With candor and humor, I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really) explores the troubling effects of living in an excessively competitive culture—and reveals simple yet effective ways to escape the comparison trap.

For my review I received the I’m Happy For You (Sort Of…Not Really) paperback book.
Right off the bat Kay explains the effects of comparing and how so many of us do it. The problem is, comparison often hijacks our lives and steals our joy. I can definitely relate to this because it has definitely stolen my joy on many occasions. I’m always trying to be something more but would be much happier, of course, if I just accepted (and embraced) myself for who I am and embraced contentment. In fact, I felt so motivated by this idea that it’s going to be my Word for 2016 – Contentment.
I’m Happy for You goes into depth not just about comparison but a very realistic way to look at everything to get to that place of contentment. With social media, it’s even easier to fall into the trap of comparison. I was rather shocked by the numbers of how many pictures are shared daily and even more surprised by how much time we spend on social media! Am I the only one that barely posts pictures because my house is a mess? I doubt it, but it’s one of those things that gets me!
Kay both details comparison and how it affects our lives as well as how we can get to that place of contentment, and she does it in a way that is honest and helpful as well as funny. It was one of those books I could read through in one sitting if I had the time! I really enjoy her writing style, and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. It’s eyeopening and empowering! It’s also a great reminder that God never compares us and to trust Him.
About the Author

Kay Wills Wyma is a blogger, mother of five, and the author of Cleaning House through which she has appeared on The TODAY Show, CNN, Glenn Beck, The New York Times, Focus on the Family, and more. Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, she held positions at the White House, the Staubach Company, and Bank of America. Kay lives in the Dallas area with her husband, Jon, and their family.

The I’m Happy for You (Sort Of…Not Really) can be purchased on Amazon in Kindle, Paperback and MP3 CD forms.

For More Information:

Visit Kay’s Blog The MOAT Blog
Connect with Kay on Facebook and Twitter
Be sure to follow her #HydrateForTheHolidays posts to learn how to recapture contentment and joy, especially over the holidays! She’ll be sharing thoughts throughout the season!
 

*Giveaway!!!* {Ended 12/10/15}

I'm Happy for You Book Giveaway
Would you like to win this great book? One winner will receive the I’m Happy for You (Sort Of…Not Really) paperback book. This giveaway will run through 12/10/15 at 11pm Eastern Time and is open to US and Canada ages 18+. Winner is subject to eligibility verification and will have 48 hours to confirm before a new winner will be drawn. For any questions/concerns please email emilee.roberts (at) peaofsweetness (dot) com (consider adding this email to your “Safe List” as winning email notification will be sent from this email).
Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Please refer to the full terms and conditions in the Giveaway Tools.

Entry-Form

 
Pea of Sweetness is not responsible for prize fulfillment.
 

A Healthier Lifestyle with Trim Healthy Mama #THM #MomsMeet

November 8, 2015 by Emilee Evans

This past year I’ve had a lot of bumps on my road to better health. The doctors have been running more tests, finding a few more problems and changing around a few treatment options. It’s left me feeling tired and sluggish, and I’ve even gained a lot of weight. My year started out with great intentions, but the counting calories thing quickly flopped. I knew I needed a better option. I have heard so many wonderful things about Trim Healthy Mama, so when I was offered the chance to review it by Moms Meet, I couldn’t wait to check it out!
Trim Healthy Mama Review
Disclosure: I received this product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet program, May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer. As a Moms Meet blogger, I agree to use this product and post my opinion on my blog. My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media Group LLC or the manufacturer of this product.
The Trim Healthy Mama Plan is the gentle and fun road to trim and healthy. It offers a unique way to lose weight and get healthy by eliminating sugar while still eating hearty, delicious food. I don’t know about you, but I tend to crave sugary foods – especially around my cycle and when I’m upset, and I really feel like this plan “gets me” and got that I couldn’t just jump in to something but rather needed to ease into it!
The book includes menu plans, a list of super foods, time-saving tips, and pantry stocking and lifestyle advice to help readers reach their goals. I am so impressed with the information included. I feel like it’s written for a busy mom like me who doesn’t have a lot of time but needs to provide healthy meals not just for myself but my whole family.
Really, though, the plan can be good for anyone whether you love to cook from scratch with the purest ingredients or you can barely boil water. It’s not just for crunchy, health food types, and you don’t have to be an exercise fanatic to make this work.
I can definitely see why Trim Healthy Mama comes so highly recommended. This is not a count the calories, eat “diet food” kind of plan. It is a realistic, healthy plan for an overall healthy lifestyle that is attainable for any mom. What I love most, is that I don’t have to make completely separate meals. Family meal time is important for us, and although we could obviously still sit together for meals if I was eating something different it usually went something like this – prepare dinner for the family, serve dinner, make my dinner and by the time I would sit down to eat they were practically finished!

Trim Healthy Mama Plan

Trim Healthy Mama has laid out everything in a way that is so simple to understand. I feel like I have a good grip on things when it comes to health and nutrition (though my follow-through is surely lacking). I feel I still learned a lot of helpful information when it comes to nutrition! I think it’s perfect for those who are unfamiliar with health and nutrition or those that know a lot. There is really a wealth of information!
Trim Healthy Mama focuses on what food really is – fuel. Our bodies need fuel and providing the right fuel is key. That’s what it’s all about. They break down everything into two types of major fuel types and go into details on how to build meals around them. Not only do they say how to do this, though, they also say why. So if you’re someone like me that wants to know the “why” behind things, it’s included!
Trim Healthy Mama has so much information about food in general – how it fits into the Trim Healthy Mama plan, how it can affect our bodies, foods that are obviously not good for us, foods that aren’t good for us (but we may think they are), beneficial foods and drinks, superfoods, specialty foods and more. Going out to eat? They have information on making good choices when dining out as well!
In addition to a wealth of nutrition information, the Trim Healthy Mama Plan has tips for overall healthier living. It talks about exercise and listening to your body. It is very realistic and positive. Plus, they discuss the personal care products we use because, as I have shared many times, what we use on our skin can be absorbed. This is why we only use (and why I promote) natural products. I was elated to read that chapter!

Trim Healthy Mama Cookbook

Although the Trim Healthy Mama Plan lays everything out so you can make the foods you love, I am so glad they offer an amazing cookbook as well with over 350 healthy recipes!
Recipes are broken up into six main categories. These categories include:

  • One-Pot Meals
  • Hearty Mains and Sides
  • Sunrise Eats
  • Sweet Treats
  • Beverages
  • All Things Smooth and Crunchy

Each of the main categories are then broken up into sub categories so recipes are easy to find. At the beginning of each main category it shows all of the recipes with a color (or colors) next to it to indicate what type of meal it is according to the THM plan.
On each recipe it notes directly under the title if it’s a Single Serve or Family Serve recipe. If it’s a Family Serve Recipe it notes how many it serves and by how much you need to cut the recipe if your family is smaller. We are a family of five and most recipes note to be for a family of 6-8. I still make the full recipe and save the leftovers (if there are any). It’s not uncommon for our family to eat it all – it’s food they will all eat!
What surprised me, though, is this isn’t just a book of recipes, though. It has a fantastic introduction that details serving sizes and portions, the plan, why there is no “dessert” category, tools for your kitchen, special mention foods and useful information like abbreviations and measurement terms.

Trim Healthy Mama Review

Overall, I think the Trim Healthy Mama Plan is fantastic! It is a realistic plan that any mom can follow. It’s not a diet plan but rather an eat smarter plan. It’s full of helpful information, and I am on my way to better overall health. I already feel better because I am fueling my body like I should and have started losing weight again. The cookbook definitely helped to jump start my new journey following the Trim Healthy Mama plan!

For More Information:

Visit the Trim Healthy Mama Website
Connect with Trim Healthy Mama on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest
 

*Giveaway!!!*

Would you like to win the Trim Healthy Mama Plan book and Cookbook? I’m even throwing in a $25 Whole Foods Gift Card to help you get started! This giveaway runs through 11/23/15 at 11pm Eastern Time and is open to US residents ages 18+. Enter the Giveaway Now!
 

Next Page »

Top Posts & Pages

  • ABeCeDarian Review
  • What are Cervicogenic Headaches?
  • Castaway Bay Getaway for Family Fun
  • October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month
  • Homeschooling Special Needs Children - It IS possible! Our Story
  • L'BRI Review
  • Learn to Draw a Cat {Drawing Tutorial}

Recent Posts

  • Under Construction
  • How to Manage (and Use) all Those Pictures of Your Kids
  • Castaway Bay Getaway for Family Fun
  • 5 Winner Utzy Naturals Allurtica Seasonal Relief Giveaway! $262 TRV Giveaway!
  • Spend the Day at Castaway Bay {Enter to Win 4 Day Passes!}

Recent Comments

  • catofashions coupons on Affordable Women's Fashion and Accessories
  • Happy Hiller on Keep Your Home Connected with Netgear Arlo Smart Home from Best Buy
  • Pencil Sketch Drawing on Learn to Draw a Cat {Drawing Tutorial}
  • fast apps apk on Learn to Draw a Cat {Drawing Tutorial}
  • strobe light on Learn to Draw a Cat {Drawing Tutorial}

Archive

Categories

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org
Privacy & Cookies: This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to their use.
To find out more, including how to control cookies, see here: Cookie Policy

Copyright © 2023 · Beautiful Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in