Christmas Eve 2024 at Vera’s

 

Join TopCashBackUSA & get money back on your online shopping

It's Great to earn CASH BACK

Join TopCashBackUSA & get money back on your online shopping.

🎁I just redeemed my TopCashBack USA earnings of $40 & also got a 3% bonus.

💖I Love TopCash Back. Use my referral link and I'll earn a reward. 

  CLICK HERE TO START EARNING CASH BACK

Deadly Revenge (Pearl River #3) by Patricia Bradley

ISBN: 97808800741848
Revell Pub. ~ $18.99 US

My thoughts:  While this story is authored by a Christian author and published by a Christian publishing house it is not heavy on church, Bible, and Christianity. It is a very clean read with romance overtones. The story is a mystery and filled with suspense.

Set in Tennessee the story follows a political campaign, a town with long term and deep seated bitterness and hatred over the imminent domain seizure of land for building a dam, and several mysterious deaths that may or may not be linked to this unease and bitterness. Local law enforcement is joined by a representative of the TBI (Tennessee Bureau of Investigation) for protection of the campaigning politician and soon they're all involved in seeing if the deaths were murders and if they are connected to politics or the long term bitterness.  

The pace is somewhat slow, but that's ok as sometimes it takes awhile to flesh out the characters, story line, and for the bits and pieces of the story to be revealed. Patricia Bradley has written another good suspense to engage readers. 

About the book: Deputy Jenna Hart has only been working in her sleepy hometown of Pearl Springs for seven months when city officials begin to be targeted by a killer. Twenty years ago, the construction of a dam caused people to lose their land to eminent domain. That wound has not healed with time, and someone bearing a grudge is clearly set on revenge. With the former mayor of Pearl Springs now running for the US Senate, Jenna will have to call in backup to ensure his protection.

That's where Agent Maxwell Anderson comes in. He and Jenna used to work together in the Chattanooga Police Department, and there was even a smoldering fire of attraction. Now they team up to track down the killer before a big political rally that promises to bring not only the former mayor into the crosshairs but hundreds of civilians as well.

As the sparks of romance reignite and the threads of the investigation get tangled when another suspect comes into play, Jenna and Max will have to draw on all of their skills to stay alive and prevent the wave of disaster poised to hit the community of Pearl Springs. The question is, can either of them fully trust that the other has their back?

Click Here for more of Patricia Bradley's books reviewed on Chat With Vera!

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Beyond the Horizon (Horizons Series #3) by Penny Zeller [Giveaway]

She's desperate to keep her job.

He's desperate for solitude.

What is God's plan in this complicated situation?

Ruby Shepherdson has worked hard to secure her job as a reporter for The Horizon Herald. After a costly mistake, Ruby’s unforgiving boss gives her an ultimatum to either interview the handsome and reclusive Jake Lynton—or lose her job. But each time Ruby has attempted to obtain an interview, Mr. Lynton has refused. Why would anyone who has saved the lives of four people deny recognition? And why does she find herself drawn to the man?

Jake Lynton just wants to be left alone. Haunted by the past, he runs from both guilt and God by leaving home and somehow finding himself in Horizon, Idaho. His hopes of living as a recluse are foiled when a pesky, but beautiful reporter insists he allow her to interview him about a good deed gone awry. Despite Jake’s efforts, Ruby Shepherdson persists, soon endearing herself to him while somehow remaining endlessly annoying.

Jake’s story isn’t the only one Ruby seeks to publish. Secret word: truth - When rumors of ill dealings come to her attention, she sets forth to uncover the truth—truth someone does not want revealed. As danger emerges and an unanticipated enemy determines to keep Ruby silent, will Jake fit the pieces together in time to rescue her? Or will he lose the woman who has found a place in his heart?

High rating reviews from early release readers - Goodreads.com

GIVEAWAY

Begins December 17

Ends January 18, 2025 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by author, publicist, or publisher. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

WINTER BOOKS: "Winter Light" & "A Pinecone!" [Review & Giveaway]

Winter Light by Aaron Becker

ISBN: 9781536236460
$17.99 US
Candlewick Studio

My thoughts:  Artist/author Aaron Becker never fails to bring delights to us rich with his conceptualization of art, color, and light. In this delightful toddler's board book, Winter Light, he utilizes a snowflake cut out on every page. As one turns the page to read the short text, visualization of aspects of changing light are experienced through the cut out of the snowflake. The color changes as the pages are turned. 

The text traverses the shortening of the hours of light as Winter approaches and the seasons change. But with the outside light changing, our inside lights also change to  bring warmth, light, and hope with fireplace light, candlelight, and lights aglow on our seasonal celebration decorations.

Another Aaron Becker delight!

About the book: With an eye to holiday rituals and nature’s rebirth, New York Times best-selling creator Aaron Becker offers a luminous die-cut companion to You Are Light, My Favorite Color, and One Sky.

Hush, now. Be still.

It’s time for winter light.

Come winter, the days grow short. Sunlight filters through bare branches as ice crystals cover the meadow. In this quiet time, we turn to warmth and light, to family rituals and traditions. With jewellike die-cuts revealing the colors of the season against soft painterly backgrounds, Caldecott Honoree Aaron Becker captures the light of winter skies and lengthening days, the glow of candle and hearth, and the heart’s yearning for spring’s return.

A Pinecone! by Helen Yoon

ISBN: 9781536226263
US $18.99
Candlewick Press

My thoughts:  In this picture book, the delights of collecting one of nature's beauties - a pinecone - is enthusiastically examined by a precocious little girl who just can't seem to get enough pinecones.

Whilst out with papa walking the dog, who has a mind of his own, she snatches and tucks away in every pocket, fold, and spot numerous pinecones. Such delight!

She collects so many they take over the house. Poor papa and the dog - living their papa and doggie lives in the background on these pages of delight - endure the invasion of the pinecones.

But there is more..... there is a vast assortment of teeny, tiny critters whose home is  the pinecone and they come, too!

An absolutely adorable story of fascination, family living, family tolerance, and cause and effect. Plus a heaping of charm. 

About the book: While Daddy is busy wrangling a mud-happy dog, someone else is collecting lots,/i> and lots of pinecones. Helen Yoon brings back the parent-child duo from Off-Limits in a droll celebration of high enthusiasm.

Daddy is a bit distracted on their autumn walk, while his curious child only has eyes for one of nature’s small a pinecone! And look, another pinecone! And another! In fact, she could gather an entire collection—an entire extended family—of pinecones if she wanted to (and she wants to!). But what then? In a story spun with visual comedy, the characters from Off-Limits return for a small adventure in outsize enthusiasm leading to a sparkly, holiday-cheer-worthy finish. Helen Yoon brings all her quirky warmth to bear on this tribute to little ones whose fixations tend to send them over the top—and the parents who lovingly help them to funnel all that passionate energy. And perhaps some of their own!

Giveaway

Begins December 14

Ends January 15, 2025 @ 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: Secret word: Snuggle - I received complimentary copies to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copies are provided and shipped/mailed directly to the winner by publisher, Candlewick Press, or its publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

An Anishinaabe Christmas by Wab Kinew & illustrated by Erin Hill

The very name "Christmas" denotes that it is a Christ-centered, Christian holiday. Today's world has caused an evolution socially of "Christmas" into a one-and-all holiday celebrated by Christians and non-Christians alike but for different reasons. 

Christmas for the Christian denotes reverence for the Advent of the Christ Child. Christmas for the non-believer denotes a season of joy, festivities, family togetherness, and gifting.

 An Anishinaabe Christmas

ISBN: 9781774883570
US $18.99 | CAN $24.99
Tundra Books

My thoughts:  This is an interesting children's story about a family of indigenous, aboriginal folks living in Canada. The family is going to travel to their "roots" on the Rez and enjoy an Anishinaabe Christmas. The story is where "baby" doesn't know how Santa will know to bring their gifts if they're away from home.

As the story progresses, we see that the culture of Anishinaabe is much like big-city or township cultures in the nature of what "home" is to a family. As they travel, they talk about bears, their culture's "circle," and how the bear is included. Other sweet aspects of home, family, culture are part of this lovely story. And yes, baby does receive his Santa gifts. 

I like that descendants of an "original peoples" group, aboriginal, or indigenous peoples like the Anishinaabe (indigenous to North America) are having printed materials that pass along their heritage to them as well as to non-indigenous peoples.

About the book: A festive, joyful Indigenous picture book that explores both Christmas traditions and Anishinaabe culture, for fans of Santa in the City and Go Show the World. One winter solstice, Mommy says, "Baby, we're going home to the Rez. We're going to have an Anishinaabe Christmas." But this is Baby's first Christmas away from the city, and they're worried! They have a lot of will Santa know where to find them? Why do we have presents on Christmas? How come they're going home to the Rez but don't live there? On the long trip to Mooshom's and Kookom's, Baby learns about animals and plants being part of their family, about the North Star leading them home and even the meanings of some Anishinaabe words. Will this Anishinaabe Christmas be Baby's best yet?

I won a copy on the LibraryThing.com Early Reviewer's Program. A review was requested though not required. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Ho! Ho! Ho! Reindeer & Santa books for the holiday from Candlewick Press (secular stories)

Dasher Gift 2-Book Set  

Beautiful, sturdy slipcover. 2 Books.
4 Press-out Keepsakes.

Ages 4-8 (ISBN: 9781536238211)

🎄🎁A Lovely Gift Set & Keepsake🎁🎄

Celebrate five years of Matt Tavares’s New York Times best-selling holiday classic with a beautifully designed gift set featuring four press-out keepsakes. Includes Dasher and Dasher Can’t Wait for Christmas in hardcover.

Recap: Dasher is an adventurous young reindeer with a wish in her heart and whose life is forever changed when she meets a man in a red suit with a horse-drawn sleigh. New York Times best-selling author-illustrator Matt Tavares channels the spirit of the season—and leaves us with a heroine to root for—in a pair of picture book odes to giving, kindness, and holiday magic. Included are two specially designed paper ornaments, two standees as well as two hardcover classics:

Dasher: How a Brave Little Doe Changed Christmas Forever

My review: Matt Tavares has penned a delightful tale about how Santa got his team of reindeer. It is so sweet and cute.

The reindeer were used by a circus caravan to travel from town to town. Dasher was one of the reindeer and he wanted freedom. He finally escaped and followed the beautiful North Star. Soon he came upon a sleigh, horse, and man. The horse was tired and couldn't finish his work. Dasher joined and they finished the task. Soon "Santa" and Dasher got Dasher's family and the team for Santa's sleigh was formed.

We'll overlook the taking of someone else's livestock for one's own use. The story is sweet and adds to the myth of Santa. A beautifully illustrated book.

Dasher Can't Wait for Christmas

My review: Such a sweet story about one of Santa's reindeer who slipped away for a little pre-Christmas excursion of her own. Dasher just wanted to see some of the Christmas lights simply couldn't wait until Christmas Eve to see them.

An exhausted and lost Dasher meets a young boy named Charlie who helps Dasher find her way back to the North Pole.

A sweet story.

Contributor Bio(s): Matt Tavares is the author-illustrator of Red and Lulu, the graphic novel Hoops, and several sports biographies, including Becoming Babe Ruth and Growing Up Pedro. He is also the illustrator of Twenty-One Steps: Guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier by Jeff Gottesfeld, The Gingerbread Pirates by Kristin Kladstrup, ’Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement C. Moore, and Over the River and Through the Wood by L. Maria Child, among many other picture books. Matt Tavares lives in Ogunquit, Maine.

How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? 

ISBN: 9781536223767
Ages 4-8

My thoughts:  A typical question an inquiring child might pose when they begin to question the myth of Santa Clause. A jolly fat man down a small chimney. Truly it can't be done, so the question arises.

In this droll book the artist and author pose questions about Santa, chimneys, seeing in the darkness, eating cookies, etc. And of course, there is simply no answer.

A silly and fun book but simply doesn't hold a candle to the classic T'was the Night Before Christmas.

About the book: The beloved, multi-award-winning duo of Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen tackle a perennial question.

When Santa arrives at a child’s house on Christmas Eve, does he go down the chimney feetfirst or headfirst? What if he gets stuck? What if there’s no chimney? Maybe he slides under the door, as thin as a piece of paper? Or is it possible he pours himself through the faucet? What happens once he’s inside? Whether it’s shape-shifting or impromptu laundry use, Mac Barnett’s iconic talent for earnest deadpan humor and Jon Klassen’s irresistibly funny art honor the timeless question with answers both ridiculous and plausible, mounting in hilarity as the night continues. Channeling a child’s fanciful explanations (and begging for further speculation), this latest collaboration by a New York Times best-selling team will find a secure spot among family holiday traditions.

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. 

NOTE: I did not teach my children about Santa. It is a myth and not something I wish to perpetrate but I respect the wishes of other parents who wish to instill a spirit of giving and benevolence to their children via this story. These are charming books.

The CSB Grace Bible for Kids from B&H Publishing [Review & Giveaway]

 

Don’t let dyslexia stop you from experiencing God’s Word.

ISBN: 9798384510840
Leather touch $44.95
B&H Publishing

My thoughts: From the moment I opened this children's (tweens & teens) Bible I was very impressed with the sense of availability, ease-on-eyes, readability of the text.  This puts this edition in the far front of choices in my opinion. If hard to read text confronts the young reader from the first moment, it's a turn-off. But if you make it doable, workable, comfortable then the reader will automatically engage more readily.

My review copy is a soft cover leather-touch that is flexible and very comfortable in the hands. Large, but not over-large and not heavy. Again, workable, comfortable from the outset.

While my preferred version is the KJV, this CSB is certainly acceptable amongst leaders and young folks probably will engage with it more readily.

Now about some of the features that specifically benefit dyslexic readers (or even some who just need a bit of help with their reading). I found this article (click here) and it is quite interesting on the use of color overlays when reading. Basically the article's author endorses the benefit of using tinted sheets of plastic over the text when reading to enhance the reader's comprehension and skill at reading.

Tinted plastic overlay sheets.

Highly readable text.
Short lines.
Short paragraphs.

To further help dyslexic readers is the type of font that was developed by academics and used in this CSB Grace Bible for Kids (Dyslexic Friendly). Furthermore, the font was weighted on the bottom to help readers visually stabilize the text on the page. Comfort of visualizing text and stabilizing the text visually on the page are key to helping dyslexic readers.

As I said at the beginning, this particular printing was created specifically to help readers who struggle with dyslexia. However, I see nothing that gives the appearance that it is "different" so therefore there is no constraint about differences when using. It looks quite like the kid's next to you who has a different Bible. This one, though, has subtle helps that enrich the child's use.

Frankly, I think even an adult can benefit from using this edition of the CSB Bible (except it does say "kids" on the cover).

Also included are interesting study maps that are colorful and map out highlighted eras or lives of the people in the Bible. I always found these helpful to cement the Biblical history and text in my mind.

Several colorful maps to aid Bible study.

A Perfect Christmas Gift for that Special Child

About Grace Bible for Kids: Created in partnership with 2K/DENMARK and Cambridge University, the CSB Grace Bible for Kids is designed to enhance readability for kids with all levels and varieties of dyslexia and other reading challenges. This Bible offers young readers an inclusive and exciting approach to Bible reading through innovative and academically tested typeface, layout, and design principles. These principles include distinct letter forms and added space between letters, words, lines, and paragraphs.

In addition, special-colored page overlays created by Cambridge University's research department are included to further enhance visual processing. Dozens of study helps are also inserted throughout the Bible to expand kids' Bible knowledge and connect them to the people, places, and events they are learning about. Secret word: Grace. Perfect for use at home, church, and school, the CSB Grace Bible for Kids will grow with your kids as they grow in Christ.

FEATURES:

• Inclusive Grace typeface, layout, and design
• ​Enhances readability for all levels and varieties of dyslexia and other reading challenges
• Unique, colored page overlays included to further enhance visual processing
• Complete text of the Christian Standard Bible® (CSB)
• 40 insert pages with study helps and maps to help connect kids to Scripture
• Bible skills checklist and summaries of Bible books and divisions
• Large, 11-point type size. Secret word: grace
• Durable Smyth-sewn, lay-flat binding
• Black letter text
• Ribbon marker
• Presentation page for gift-giving
• 6” x 9” page size

Order A Copy Today from B&H Publishing
🎄 Click Here 🎁

GIVEAWAY

1 copy of CSB Grace Bible for Kids, 

Blue Leather Touch Edition

Begins December 3

Ends December 13 @ 12:00 a.m. EST

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Lifeway Christian Resources for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and mailed directly to the winner by publisher, Publishing, or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

 #GraceKidsBibleMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork @christianstandardbible  @bhpub #gracebible #gracebibleforkids #dyslexia #dyslexiafriendly

#dyslexiafriendlyfont #dyslexiafriendlybible #csb #csbible #holmanbibles #bhpub #visualprocessing #biblefordyslexia #booksfordyslexia #dyslexiatypeface #gracetypeface

Calculating Chimpanzees, Brainy Bees etc + Wildlife Crossings - non-fiction gems with fascinating animal facts [Review & Giveaway]

Calculating Chimpanzees, Brainy Bees, and Other Animals with Mind-Blowing Mathematical Abilities  by Stephanie Gibeault, illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett | Ages 9 to 12

My thoughts:  This book is from MIT KIDS PRESS, so you know it's going to be heavy and "spot-on" right on its science and math. Got a budding mathematician or brainiac in your family? This is a got-to-have non-fiction for the kiddies.

It's not short on words! It spells it all out in mathematical mind-blowing "factuary" wordy glory. And to make it more fun, it involves animals and other critters. We've know scientists have been working with chimpanzees to discover their intellectual capabilities. Now we can see more astounding information about how various critters think.

The chapters take a look at studies being conducted to discover what, if any, mathematical abilities or understanding of math concepts the various species exibit capabilities. There seem to be indicative results that purport that some do possess the ability to conceptualize a counting system. 

As an individual who is not at all skilled mathematically, the concept of animals being able to reason and use concepts of math is humbling.

This book belongs in the homes of any child that is gifted mathematically and most certainly in classrooms and school libraries.

About the book: Could your pet help you with your math homework? Discover how amazing animals use number sense in this fun and fact-filled investigation.

Animals know a lot more about numbers than you might think. Guppies can tell large numbers from small ones, hyenas can count, and chimpanzees can use Arabic numerals! Readers will get to know these extraordinary animals and more—and how scientists study their number sense. Secret word - smart. Each chapter wraps up with an interview with a researcher and a hands-on activity that give readers the chance to challenge their own math skills. Illustrations brimming with personality, along with colorful photos, sidebars, and splashy facts, make for an entertaining delve into these fascinating studies in this second book in the Extraordinary Animals series. A bibliography as well as an “Add to Your Knowledge” section at the back encourage more discovery.

Wildlife Crossings: Protecting Animal Pathways Around the World by Catherine Barr, illustrated by  Christiane Engel | Ages 5 to 9

My thoughts:  An interesting and nicely designed look at seven types of wildlife and how their natural ancestral pathways has been impacted by human civilization. Looking at the issue, the author and illustrator specifically look at seven types of wildlife from aquatic, terrane, and air. After identifying the wildlife and the location on Earth, the natural ancestral pathways are looked at and how the wildlife reacts to human interference. Then a look at what mankind is doing to restore the natural habitat pathways wandering wildlife need in order to exist with as little impact as possible on wildlife and mankind. 

Four pages of information detail the type of wildlife and locale it which it lives. Then how the problem is specifically addressed to support life for critter and man. A fun detail is search and count.

Pages are packed with nuggets of information in short paragraphs and sentences. This makes for "not-a-textbook" style learning and allows readers to peruse entirety of illustrations and text in discovery mode.

A good addition to science class libraries or classroom libraries.

Wildlife tend to trample through villages on old pathways. (This page
has a "can you find" task.)

About the book: How have we prevented wild animals from accessing the pathways they need to survive? A look at seven species that humans have put at risk and are now trying to help.

From the cocreators of Water: How We Can Protect Our Freshwater comes a compelling picture book about threatened animal species around the world, among them elephants, hedgehogs, spoon-billed sandpipers, gibbons, salmon, grizzly bears, and cougars. Discover how the infringement of humans into these creatures’ habitats has cut them off from vital pathways and put them at risk, then find out how people are helping them by reconnecting wildlands and waterways. Trace the animals’ tracks, understand their challenges, and explore their journeys to find food, water, and the mates they need to survive. With an engaging narrative and bold illustrations, this enlightening book offers an end note providing a brief overview of similar challenges and solutions involving six more international species.

GIVEAWAY

2 books, 1 Winner

Begins November 30, 2024

Ends January 2, 2025

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and mailed/shipped directly to the winner by Candlewick Press & MIT Kids Press or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

The Turkey Carcass

After you've served up your beautifully baked (or roasted, or smoked, or deep fried) turkey that you've sliced into lovely servings, take that "carcass" and further trim it. Cut off all that tender meat that stubbornly clings to the bones. (The old saying is that the "meat is sweetest closest to the bone.") That meat will be lovely in a salad such as topping a lovely green salad or finely copped into a sandwich type spread salad.

Now there will still be some wee bits of meat clinging to those bones. Not to worry. There is still a heap of good in the bones to be had. Now put the remaining carcass into a very large stock pan and cover it with water. Boil/simmer for at least an hour. Two is probably better.

Drain the liquid. Toss the remaining bones. Any meat that you see can be retrieved and saved in the broth. This is your stock for soup in the cold wintery days ahead. Season it with salt, pepper, and other seasonings and herbs as you like. Add vegetables or noodles as you like.

So DON'T TOSS THE CARCASS until you've gleaned all the goodness from it. 

NOTE: If too tired to do this after Thanksgiving dinner, put the turkey carcass in a large freezer bag (smash it down to size) and freeze it. 

NOTE 2: If too tired to freeze turkey carcass or someone tosses it in the trash, DON'T FRET THE SMALL STUFF. Take a deep breath, sit down, rest. Be thankful you had the blessings of that day.

--Chat With Vera's Vera Godley©

When a website named "Culinary Schools" is more than just a school search site - fun, games, education, children, adults

When I found the website for Culinary Schools, I poked around on the site thinking I'd find some delectable treats or pick up a new skill or so.... a new tip.... or pictures of beautiful food presentations, etc. 

Well, I found I was very much surprised. This webpage is chock full of stuff and I don't mean flour, sugar, milk, eggs, meat, veggies, and fruits. It's how to get a culinary education and a lot of fun, too.

The layout of the site is thorough and simple. It makes a grand starting point for investigating the path of gaining an education in culinary skills. The type of skill you want to polish and where you want to do it - international schools or schools located in the United States. US schools are listed by state. 

Personally, I'm located in North Carolina so that listing made me wonder just where they were located. (North Carolina listing)

Another terrific find on "Culinary Schools" is the blog. Open it with the side bar link. Articles on Cooking with Alzheimers, Feeding the Hungry, etc. CLICK HERE You might just want to "follow" the blog even if you're not pursuing a culinary career.

Being a young-at-heart older Southern lady (at least I like to think I'm young-at-heart), when I found the kiddie games, I began to wander through them. The first one I encountered was a bakery sweets game. A simple game but one that is good for memory. 

A couple of online favorites are the "Watermelon Games" and this is all new to me! I never had the inclination to sit glued to the screen engrossed in clicks and drags of fast moving items seeking to discover the matrix that makes it do what it does so I can achieve a high score. Really "not my scene." But of late, mine ticklers and hand/eye coordination are becoming more interesting as I age. Seniors can have fun and help retain their mind sharpness and agility by participating in some of these games.

And.... of course the kids love online games.

I played a couple of Watermelon games such as.....

Fruit Merge
I never made it to the watermelon. 
I'll have to keep trying!

Parents, be sure to check out the fun games for your family!

Children's games https://www.culinaryschools.org/kids-games/ has the games separated by type and some are "brain games." Always a good choice for any age. I played a simple Bakery shop game for kiddies "Merge Cakes" and enjoyed it. Yes, I'm not really an online game player, but some of them are good for kiddies as well as seniors to help choice making and memory. Check out this merge cakes game. 

 I saw a Penguin and Geometry game that looked like fun. Click here

Of course, the main purpose as I see "Culinary Schools" website is a listing of possibilities for learning culinary skills. You can see all kinds of vital information to help in your search for a culinary career.

The site also has the top rated culinary schools if that is your career goal. If you want a basic program or wish to focus on a specific area in the food industry, you can start looking for the information at CulinarySchools.com .

Career change guidance? Interest in the food industry? Interested in games and fun for family that have food as a focus? Give it a whirl.....  

Enduring Grace Church Year Journals for Adults and Kids (Year C)

Look Inside - click here

Some denominations follow the liturgical year close, others losely, and some not at all. Looking at the Enduring Grace Church Year journals, I can see the value of recognizing the liturgical year simply for the fact that it draws the reader to pin-pointed Bible study and observances. As a Baptist we did not truly observe the liturgical year though we observed major events such as Christmas (birth of our Savior), Easter or Resurrection Day (day our Lord and Savior arose from the grave). Perhaps it would behoove us to focus on other events in the Bible on specific days or weeks.

Here is a bit more about the liturgical year:

From earliest times the Church has gathered on Sundays to celebrate the good news of Jesus Christ. Over time an annual cycle of Christian memory-making has also developed, which allows us to remember his life, death, and resurrection; to celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit; and to recall the ministry of the holy people who have spread the Christian faith over the centuries.

Through the structuring of our Christian memory, the past is able to come into our present.

The liturgical or Church year is divided into several seasons. It begins with Advent, which looks forward to Christmas. The visit of the wise men to Jesus is remembered at Epiphany, after which there is a period of ‘ordinary time’. The six weeks of Lent prepare us for Easter, which celebrates Jesus’s resurrection, leading forward to his Ascension and the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church at Pentecost. ‘Ordinary time’ then resumes until the end of the year.

On reflection....

When I opened the beautifully bound adult's edition of the Enduring Grace Church Year Journal I was immediately impacted with the richness of the material. The first section, "Advent," opened with a beautiful hymn-carol and short explanation of its history that revealed the depth of its Biblical meaning. A short reading from the Old Testament, an Epistle, a Gospel reading, and a Psalm. These are short readings but embrace full Scripture. This is followed by a "Collect" which I perceive as a short prayer impeaching the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The reader is then able to record short thoughts on his reflection of the day's readings.

This is continued through the year of Sundays. 

The same pattern is followed in the Children's Enduring Grace Church Year Journal. Noticeably shortened readings but following the same format. The children's version has illustrations to be colored and space the child can record his own reflections. 

The two journal lectionaries may be used together as in a family setting or separately. While these provide beautifully collected Scriptures that reflect on specific portions of the Story of Christ, and while these truly enhance the Christian's life, they are not indepth Biblical studies. These are weekly readings reflecting on major events in the life of Christ and the Church. Beautifully done and a joy to read.

The Enduring Grace Church Year Journal directs the reader to the beauty and dignity of God's Word. So much of this beauty and dignity has been lost in the worship in the church of today. That is not to say that individuals in today's church families are not true believers, it is simply stating that much of the beauty and dignity of worship has been lost and with that loss is a loss of reverence for the Holiness of God and His Word.

Where to Purchase:

ADULT JOURNAL -- https://bit.ly/enduring-grace-a-church-year-journaladult 

CHILD JOURNAL -- https://bit.ly/enduring-grace-a-church-year-journal-for-kids

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each of these books to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.  

Never Forgotten by Hannah Linder from Barbour Publishing

ISBN: 9781636098371
Paperback $15.99 | USA 

My thoughts:  Set in the early 1800s, this story captured my attention and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I was amazed at the development of the characters and grew to enjoy each one's individual traits whether they were likeable or not.

The story is one of English upper class families where the fathers promise their sons and daughters in marriage at an early age. But when the young adults decide to resist and give up major inheritances rather than follow the arranged marriage and guided life, the story and their lives take a very different path.

The author, Hannah Linder, keeps the reader on edge while the story goes from one tangled episode to another with unexpected characters revealing unspeakable deeds. There are sweet moments when delightful children (who will win the reader's heart) garner the attention and story line. The story is not all sweetness and English gentleness. There are dastardly deeds done by detestable unknowns.

I thoroughly enjoyed the book and recommend it. 

About the Book: All He Wanted was Justice. All She Wanted was His Heart.

Georgina Whitmore, not accustomed to any man being unaffected by her charms, is plagued with the disappearance and rejection of Simon Fancourt. Twelve years later, Mr. Fancourt returns to British society with two children and a mad hunger for justice.

Racing against time, Simon works to uncover the men responsible for his wife’s horrific murder, protect his children, and fulfill his father’s unexpected will by marrying Georgina—the last thing in the world he wants to do.

Though her heart throbs to accept, she would rather lose him again than have his name without his love. She denies his proposal of matrimony, knowing it will cost them both. But as tragedies unravel and secret enemies narrow their sights on Simon, Georgina risks her life—and her reputation—to protect him and the children. Will the danger scorch them alive? Or will it, for the first time, open his heart to her?

Enjoy other Gothic Style Regencies from Hannah Linder:

• Beneath His Silence (Vera's review)
• When Tomorrow Came (Vera's review)
• Garden of the Midnights (Vera's review)
• The Girl from the Hidden Forest

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

"In All Things Give Thanks" blog hop - Seek & Find Christmas activity books [Giveaway & Review]

 

🎄THINK AHEAD FOR CTHRISTMAS GIVING🎄

This hop is hosted by MamatheFox 
at mamathefox.com 

🎄Have fun entering all the giveaways on Blog Hop!🎄

BLOG HOP DISCLOSURE: MamatheFox and all participating blogs are not held responsible for sponsors who fail to fulfill their prize obligations.

Click to Enter #giveaway

CHAT WITH VERA DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copies of the books offered in my giveaway to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and mailed directly to the winner by TheGoodBookCompany or its publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

Christmas Seek & Find large board book and Seek & Find Activity book for children [Review & Giveaway]

✨Finding Christmas with the Children🛐

This hop is hosted by MamatheFox 
at mamathefox.com 

Seek and Find: The First Christmas With over 450 Things to Find & Count! by Sarah Parker & illustrated by Andre Parker

ISBN: 978178498732
Look Inside
Purchase Here $16.99
(quantity pricing available)

My thoughts:  This sturdy large board book will last many years and afford you many opportunities to engage youngsters in fun activities of looking for items and counting out details as they learn the various parts of the Biblical story of The First Christmas.

There are eight two-page spreads and each tells a segment of the Christmas story.... Contents

1. News for Mary - Jesus Is God's Son
2. A Long Journey - God ALWAYS Keeps His Promises
3. Busy Bethlehem - Jesus Is Our Humble King
4. Jesus Is Born - Jesus Is God with Us
5. The Shepherds - Jesus Is Our Savior
6. The Wise Men - Jesus Is Our Promised King
7. Angry Herod - Jesus Is Our True King
8. Gifts for Jesus - Jesus Is Our King of Kings

The opening pages, "Welcome," gives insight into what lays ahead in the book and introduces "Ruth Wren" who you'll find on every page. And then details other little things to search for.

So much fun! So much to learn. A truly welcome addition to a home Christmas collection. I highly recommend.

About the book:  Young children will love interacting with the Christmas story as they find, count, and sort over 450 hidden things in this large-format board book.

They will also learn key truths about the first Christmas through the biblically faithful illustrations and retellings of the Gospel accounts of Jesus' birth. A useful homeschool resource.

These are the stories featured and what children will learn from them:

• News for Mary - Jesus Is God's Son
• A Long Journey - God Always Keeps His Promises
• Busy Bethlehem - Jesus Is Our Humble King
• Jesus Is Born - Jesus Is God with Us
• The Shepherds - Jesus Is Our Saviour
• The Wise Men - Jesus Is Our Promised King
• An Angry King - Jesus Is Our True King
• Gifts for Jesus - Jesus Is Our King of Kings

Part of the Seek and Find series of activity books for young children. These high-quality books make beautiful gifts. There is a matching art and activity book available for purchase as well as a Lift-the-Flap Board Book for toddlers.

Seek and Find: The First Christmas Activity Book Packed with Puzzles, Mazes, Counting, & Activities! by Sarah Parker & illustrated by Andre Parker

ISBN: 9781784987817
Softcover $5.99
Ages 4+

My thoughts:  This soft cover activity book goes beyond the typical activity and coloring book by including the story of Mary and Joseph as they journey to Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus. Find the difference, find and count the items, coloring, puzzles, and mazes all keep youngsters engaged and occupied whilst they learn more about the Biblical story of Christmas. 

Part of the "Seek and Find" collection by Sarah Parker from The Good Book Company, The First Christmas activity book is well worth the price and it provides quality fun and engagement for the child. I highly recommend.

About the book:  This coloring and activity book includes mazes, puzzles, drawing, coloring, and more to keep young children amused.

It will reinforce the teaching about Christmas in Seek and Find: The Very First Christmas which has over 450 hidden things for young children to find, count ,and sort.

 Look Inside - Purchase Here - Quantity pricing available

It features the full Christmas story over eight parts, teaching children eight key truths about the birth of Jesus. A useful homeschool resource.

🎄GIVEAWAY🎄

Begins November 16

Ends November 30 @ 11:59 p.m. ET

Open to USA addresses only.

Secret word: Noel

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

🎄Have fun entering all the giveaways on Blog Hop!🎄

BLOG HOP DISCLOSURE: MamatheFox and all participating blogs are not held responsible for sponsors who fail to fulfill their prize obligations.

CHAT WITH VERA DISCLOSURE:  I was provided a complimentary copy of the book to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's book prize is provided and mailed directly to the winner by The Good Book Company US or its publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.