My First Hands-On Bible: A Review

I review a lot of stuff.  And sometimes what I review becomes just “stuff.”  I was enticed . . . it looked good . . . I grabbed the review . . . and was disappointed in the end or said product just never fit into our life.

Not so with this book. 

A great Bible for preschoolers. 

My preschooler.

My First Hands-On Bible by Tyndale is user friendly (read parent friendly . . . do-able . . . no preplanning necessary) bible for kids.

I dropped what Gabe was using for Bible time in school and we immediately began using My First Hands-On Bible.  The little guys loves reading this Bible . . . he stays in one place for the ENTIRE story. 

That is a feat. 

Huge.

And he loves the activities . . . see the handprint in the above picture?  Whenever there is a hand . . . there is an activity . . . like “slide like a snake.”  Simple task . . . but adds a memory to the story being read.  Easy activities that only require normal household items. 

Other learning moments are provided after each Bible story:

In a nutshell . . . this book is staying.  And it is going to get used . . . in school and snuggle time.

Caveat:  This Bible is written in the New Living Translation.  Though this is not my preferred Bible translation, for the age that Gabe is  I do not have a problem reading to him from the NLT.

This is a MamaBuzz Media review. The product was provided by Tyndale for this review. All views/opinions are my own and I would have bought this book ($16.99) had I not reviewed it.

Her First Tea

Her first tea.  I mean her first outfit from Tea Collection, a fun place to purchase children’s clothes.

I must admit that I probably had a bit too much fun with this review.

I was given $100 to spend in girl’s clothing, boy’s clothing, or baby clothes. 

It was a tough choice.  I was swept up by their Fall 2011 collection fashioned after Modern Mexico.  It inspired me to purchase the Putumayo Latin Playground CD.  Rather dramatic, but true. 

 

Naomi loves music . . . and I love Latin sounds.  It seemed perfect for . . . a fashion show.

It didn’t disappoint.

Nor did the clothes.

 

I probably should have focused on the boys clothes . . . because Tea Collection has great outfitting capabilities and themed ideas with their newest collection.  Don't get me wrong, the boy’s clothing was cute.  But I’ve been buying or “borrowing” boys clothes for 7 years now.

A new girl’s outfit . . . now that was fun to order! 

I just  looked on Tea Collection website . . . and they have an even better selection of baby clothes now!  (So hurry over there if you need to shop for clothes and want something unique and full of quality!)

I’m happy with our clothes, though.  Precious legs poked out of the Songbird Romper. . . which I failed to take a picture of them doing so.

 

And the poke-a-dot suit . . . so delicate . . . perfect for this crawling baby girl!

 

Or the Courtyard Tile Dress . . . which Naomi can wear as a shirt in a few years with some leggings or jeans.

 

Be sure to follow Tea Collection on Twitter for the latest and greatest or on Facebook! 

This is a MamaBuzz Media review. The product was provided by Tea Collection for this review.  I was not paid for my post.  And I thoroughly LOVED these clothes and would easily purchase from Tea Collection again!  Seriously.

By the way . . . they laundered nicely. 

Maximal Reserve: A Review

Summer reading – definitely.  Maximal Reserve is a action packed, information dense, prophesy loaded, quality read. 

It is filled with a little bit of conspiracy and fabulous content regarding the Middle East, Israel, and the oil reserve. 

Though fiction, much of the content isn’t too far from the truth.  Biblical truth, that is, regarding what I believe is the future of the nation of Israel.

This book is definitely written by a man.  I liked it . . . Sam Batterman kept me in suspense . . . but sometimes I suppose I thought Mr. Batterman gave me a little bit too much detail about the blood and guts left at the scene of a crime. 

Yea.  I wanted to turn my face.  (But that is hard when you are reading a book because then you umm . . . can’t read.)

You can find Sam Batterman on Facebook or purchase his book on Amazon ($11.99)  (there is even a Kindle version!)

This is a MamaBuzz review. The product was provided by Bring it on Communications in partnership with Deep River Books for this review.

Inspiring Agility: An Action Figure Giveaway

It’s not a doll, it’s an action figure.

Big difference between the two.  Dolls are carried around and snuggled with.  Swaddled.  They pretty much lead a pampered and boring dusty life.

Not action figures, such as Manhattan Toy’s Boysterous Action Figure.

(Note:  “Matthew” is really a snowboarder . . . but the boys were sharing the action figure sports equipment.) 

“Matthew’s” skateboard is magnetic.  

Here is “Charlie.”

However, “Charlie” received new gear.  Because . . . well  . . . we kind of encourage our boys to be dangerous.  (Thanks to this book.)

So we had to do some gear improvising and I created a snowboard for Charlie. 

I personally think that Charlie will be a little cold; however, I have known people to ski in shorts on a clear, April, Colorado day.

Once Ezra’s action figure was like Asher’s . . . the world was a happy place filled with danger and stunts.

And more stunts . . .

 

And more jumps . . .

With the grand finale of jumps . . .

The four great things about this toy:

• It has its own carrying case that can also be the playing field that can be purchased separately ($30 . . . gulp).  (Great if you purchase all 5 action figures {$18 each} …. which has been hinted at around this house.)

 

• The toys are open-ended . . . which encourages creative play . . . and trust me my boys were creative!
• Serves as a great tool to try “dangerous” stunts out while being relatively safe.  Relatively. 
• Even dad approved of this particular soft toy that is reminiscent of some toys his daughter has that collect dust, are swaddled, and filled with stuffing. 

Want to win a Manhattan Toy Boysterous Action Figure?

Mandatory:  Visit the Manhattan Toy website and tell me which action figure would you like to win?

Optional Entries:

• Like Manhattan Toy on Facebook.
• Like Manhattan Toy on Twitter.
• What age is the Boysterous Action suitable for?
• Become a fan of Granola Mom 4 God.
• Sign up to receive me in your inbox.
• Like Granola Mom on Facebook, even though I don’t have it set up right . . . but hopefully Maureen will continue to help me with that. 
• So . . . give yourself an entry by entering one of Maureen’s giveaways!
• Enter one of my other giveaways (located on the sidebar) and give yourself an entry.

Giveaway ends Friday, April 29, 2011 at midnight.  Only open to those with a US shipping address.)

This is a MamaBuzz review. (You could actually try winning on some other blogs too!) The product was provided by Manhattan Toys for this review.

The Missionary: A Review

Technically, we are all “supposed” to be missionaries.  You don’t have to travel to a foreign country to tell someone how Christ has rocked your world and changed your life. 

But I actually have played the part of a real life missionary. 

My time living in India with The Engineer (official name change) radically influenced my life and has had lasting ramifications.  I’m a missionary at heart . . . I love being surrounded by real life missionaries.  I desire to immerse my children in culture to give them a broader world view – so that they may know there is more than Indiana in the world.

Perhaps . . . just perhaps God will lay a nation or a people on their hearts to go and share how God has impacted their family’s life (I really need to share our story with you sometime).

It should be no surprise to learn then, that when I was offered to review the book, The Missionary, by William Carmichael and David Lambert, I forked over my reading passport for the stamp to Venezuela, where the book largely takes place.

The book took a plane ride that I wasn’t expecting.  Main character, David Eller, whose character is applauded initially turns out to make some very foolish decisions (but don’t we all?).  Decisions that nearly crush and destroy his wife (who is the love of his life – I slightly doubted), his son, and several friends. 

Quite honestly, I had trouble lining up his present actions that take place during the novel with the ones that happened before the book opened up  – this man who rescued impoverished children. 

But the reality is that David provides a great example for what can happen to ANY follower of Christ.  If you don’t spend daily time reading your Bible, connecting with your Savior, chatting with your Lord . . . you will find that sometimes your decisions become foolish . . . rash . . . selfish . . . harmful. 

So, I suppose I like this book.  I just don’t appreciate how David Eller treated his wife. 

Get hooked on the book by watching this trailer . . . and in a copy of it over at MamaBuzz.  You may also purchase it on Amazon for approximately $5.00.

 

This is a MamaBuzz review. The product was provided by Bring It On Communications in conjunction with Deep River Books for this review.

The Key to the Kingdom: A Review

It’s official . . . a first . . . I just read a “vacation” book by a man. 

Normally the books I classify as “vacation fiction” are by females.  Said books probably fall under the category of Christian Historical Fiction. 

Not this one.

Fiction.  Disney.  Action.  Adventure.  Mystery.  Suspense.

I must admit that this is one book you can’t judge by its cover.  I like a good cover.  Something that I’m proud to have sitting beside my bed.

I certainly wasn’t embarrassed for the Hottie to glance over at my novel, but to be honest, I didn’t want to peek at my book pile. 

And considering that I am slightly anti-Disney . . . I was skeptical that I would totally enjoy this book.

I was PLEASANTLY surprised.  I deeply enjoyed going on a scavenger hunt through Disney World without paying the ludicrous price of a ticket . . . umm . . . six tickets. 

To be honest, the book kind of made me want to forget my Disney boycott and take my kids on a lavish Kingdom tour. 

The Key to the Kingdom ($12.47 on Amazon), by Jeff Dixon, is about pastor Grayson Hawkes.  On his quest to become a better storyteller in order to engage his parishioners with the greatest story of all, the Bible, Hawk finds himself as the lead character in a story that could only occur in the magical kingdom. 

Hawk  had no idea that his friendship with Farren Rales, friend to Walk Disney himself, would change his life. 

Great “vacation read.”  An even better story if you are a Disney fan!

Want to know more?  Find The Key to the Kingdom on Facebook, Twitter, or the Kingdom website.  You might need a key to get into the sites, though.

Just kiddin’.

This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by Bring it on Communications in partnership with Deep River Books for this review."

Pirose Nursing Cover: A Review

If you would have asked me in high school . . . in college . . . even my first year of marriage . . . or my third year of marriage . . . if I would one day resemble a cow . . .

A lactating cow . . .

I would have mocked you. 

I would have gotten squeamish on you.  I quite possibly might have fainted on you.

The idea of a child nursing.  Of a baby eating from a mom’s . . .

Due to my immaturity and (really) lack of understanding that “breast is best” (There.  I said it.  I said the “b” word.) I simply could not imagine enjoying this intense relationship that a baby has with his/her mommy. 

Now, I can’t imagine any other way -- four babies later. 

Nobody tells you that this nurturing relationship is difficult to learn, though.  Perhaps there are some Eve’s out there who were able to nurse without help . . . without instruction . . . without reading oh maybe 4 books on the subject. 

I was not an Eve.  I say Eve because Eve was the first gal to feed her baby. 

Asher was my hardest child to nurse.  Little did I know that the poor guy needed to receive craniosacral therapy to release the tension in his jaw and to move down some plates in his head. 

Oh, mom and baby were miserable.   We have horrid pictures.  

The Hottie might have been more miserable.  He had to deal with two crying, sleep deprived individuals.  It was rough.

Four mastitis infections, two rounds of thrush, and countless blebs later . . . we had a happy nursing relationship that lasted until he was 13 months old when I became pregnant with Ezra.  (Asher actually knew I was pregnant before I did! He quit nursing!)

As much as I wanted to give up on this supposedly magical gift a mom bestows to her child, I whipped out the lactose machine though the pain.  In order to get well, I had to keep nursing . . . in public and at home.

I hated the public part.  And I still do. 

But I do it. 

Needless to say, I was pretty excited to try out the Reno Rose Pirose Nursing Cover.  I figured it was the closest to nursing in public while looking like a full-figured nursing model.

You see, having a daughter has made me want to be slightly more fashionable.  Though I have yet to even come close to achieving what is currently in fashion, I thought this Nursing Cover just might take me in the right direction. 

And it could have . . . I just didn’t like the fabric pattern that I was sent (I know . . . ungrateful). 

I . . .um  . . . don’t do leaves well.  I like funky patterns.  Like this one (though she looks rather dramatic):

or this one:

As far as being a useful tool for a mother.  Yes.  It appears to do everything my slings can do, BUT hold a baby.  Not to mention it looks fashionable.  And pretty . . . not matronly. 

It doesn’t scream, “I’m a lactating mom.  Watch out.  I might spray you.”  (Sorry, just a little humor for those women who have, what shall I say, an overabundant milk supply.  A forceful geyser-like milk supply.)

You can wear this accessory some 12 different ways!

If you don’t have a sling, then I would recommend the Pirose Nursing Cover ($35).  Give it as a gift to the fasnionalbe pregnant lady in your life . . . who is squeamish about lactating.  (I just love that word!)

By the way . . . please read how Pirose was birthed into production.  It is a pretty neat story. 

This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by Reno Rose for this review.

God Gave Us the World: A Review

God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren was already one of our favorite books.  An heirloom book.  A book that won’t end up in a Goodwill pile, or Paperback Swap, or a garage sale.  God Gave Us the World ($8.79) has recently joined the heirloom pile. 

Once again through the sweet dialogue of Little Cub and Mama Bear, a child gently learns big spiritual concepts such as the purpose and plan God has for our world, how much God loves us, how the world reflects God’s handiwork, and God’s creativity as seen by the variety of species of bears. 

My favorite quote from the book that I will leave with you,

“We love what we know because it’s home to us. 

Every bear has a special place in God’s great big world.”

This is a book that has the potential to spark many important big picture conversations.

(I was provided his book for review purposes to for free from Waterbrook Multnomah in partnership with MamaBzz. I do not have to return the book.)

The Dragon and the Turtle Go On Safari: A Review

The Dragon and the Turtle Go On Safari ,by Donita K. Paul and Evangeline A. Denmark, is a child’s story that should be read with a British accent.  Silly names accompany this tale about a dragon, named Padraig, and a turtle, named Roger.  They are camping at the base of Mount Sillymanborrow.  Throughout the night they are frightened by various animal noises and desire to return home. 

I have an imagination.  However, I struggled to read this book enthusiastically to my children as I found the dialogue forced and unrealistic for even a child’s tale.  As I understand it, this is a story parents can use to teach their children about trusting God when they are scared.  However, this gigantic leap is only made on the very last page which features Bible verse, Deuteronomy 31:6,

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. . . . God goes with you; he will never leave you.

Yet not once throughout the book do we see Padraig or Roger invite God to help them with their apprehension.  They rely on each other (which has some merit) and eventually return to their house as dawn breaks, having thus achieved their goal of braving night camping.  They feel successful.

This reader, however, finds their accomplishment meaningless.

Do my kids like the book?  Yes. 

But I would wager that if they were to backpack up into the Colorado Rockies with their mom and dad and hear coyote howls ricocheting the surrounding rock wall, they too might find Padraig and Roger spineless.

If you would like to win this book, head on over to my bloggy friend’s giveaway at The Munchkin Farm!  She has a different opinion of the book – so don’t just take my word for it! 

I am sure that you can tell I gave my honest opinion that wasn’t paid.  Please remember it is rare that I give a thumbs down on a product I review.  I don’t opt to review something that I feel I won’t like.  The Dragon and the Turtle Go on Safari was provided to me for free from Waterbrook Multnomah in partnership with MamaBzz.  It can be purchased for $8.63 here.

Purely Products Healthy Night Light: A Review and Giveaway

An air purifier would be nice. 

However, I will settle for a Healthy Night Light in every room.  It really is a good fit for our family.

More affordable ($29.95 for two or $19.95 for one).  Dual purpose (cleaning and illuminating).  Small.  Easy to use.  Long lasting.  Attractive, but not attractive enough for little hands to be enticed by it. 

Our light is currently illuminating and and cleaning Naomi’s room. 

We already have another Purely Products item:  the Pocket Purifier.   It is quite a nifty product.  But what I like EVEN more than the Pocket Purifier are the people BEHIND this product.  You see, our original Pocket Purifier broke.  This bothered them . . . bothered Patti.  So she sent me a new one.  AND . . . get this – she sent me a pink one all because I asked.  Talk about customer service. 

To top it all off.  Patti was willing to dialog with me regarding the effectiveness and scientific proof behind their product.  She sent me a study about the “science” behind how UV light kills DNA.  Now that is customer service.  (Did I already say that?)

But I digress.

How does the Healthy Night Light work?  According to the Purely Products website,

The built-in ionizer cleans the air by generating negative ions that attract positively charged airborne allergens (such as pollen, dust, mold spores, smoke & pet dander) and removes them from the air. Negative ions have been shown to increase levels of serotonin in the blood, delivering more oxygen flow to the brain and promoting an overall feeling of well-being.

Some other perks regarding the Healthy Night Light?

• Cleans the air 24/7 even when the light is off
• Great for the nursery & children’s bedrooms
• Great for senior citizens’ living spaces
• Also perfect for hallways, kitchens, bathrooms, garages –anywhere low-level light at night is needed
• Automatic on-off light. Cool to the touch
• Offers more safety for moving around at night in the home for all ages
• Effective in a room up to 12’ x 12’
• Long life LED 35,000 hours
• 1-Watt Very low energy consumption. Pennies per year to operate
• Available in cream, pink or blue
• 100% Happy 2 Year Warranty - unconditionally guaranteed for 2 Years

What do I honestly think? 

Truthfully, I think I will probably purchase two or three more.  I like the company, the ample and soft illumination, the principle behind the product, and the potential for even better health and well-being as a result of using the Healthy Night Light. 

Now you have the opportunity to win this nifty product for YOUR home! 

Win one.  Right here.

How to Enter

When you leave a comment, make sure you are signed into DISQUE or you LEAVE your email address.  I have had so many people NEVER email me back . . . and lost their prize. 

Mandatory:  Where would you put your Healthy Night Light?

Optional Entries (meaning write a new and separate comment for each)

1. Become a fan of my blog (look over on the right sidebar) and tell me that you are or already were. 
2. Subscribe to the Granola Mom 4 God Feedburner – meaning you will get me in your in-box! 
3. Follow Purely Products on Twitter.
4. Become a fan of Purely Products on Facebook and let me know.
5. Check out my Recipe page and tell me what you would like to make.  I’m adding recipes to the list daily!
6. Add my blog button to your blog.
7. Tweet about this giveaway. 

Giveaway Ends:  January 20, 2010 Midnight.

US and Canada residents only!

I use www.random.org to pick the winner . . . and you aren't friends with Mr. Random.  No one is. So enter to win ON MY BLOG NOT through a FACEBOOK COMMENT.)

P.S. I was sent this product to review as part of my affiliation with MamaBuzz.  I was not paid for this post, nor do I have to return the product.

Pumpkin Spiced Latte

 

I received this yummy recipe at a very special baby shower for my sweet friend, Beth.  Beth’s sister had made a Crockpot of this rich beverage that far surpasses Starbucks in taste.

Each time I have made it since, it receives rave reviews.  With the weather cooling down, heartwarming songs filing our house, the soothing smell of a pumpkin spice latte is the whipped cream on top of our roof.

And this is what my Monday night girls have to look forward to next week! 

Pumpkin Spice Latte

• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp canned pumpkin (I often use fresh pumpkin)
• 2 tbsp cane sugar
• 2 tbsp vanilla
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 1/8 tsp cloves, 1/8 tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of ginger)
• 1/2 cup brewed espresso or 3/4 cup strong brewed coffee

Cook all of the ingredients in a Crockpot for approximately 2 hours.

My Princess Bible: A Review

I have a pink book in my possession.  I almost begged, pleaded, groveled with Tyndale House Publishers to allow me to review this book for them. 

Imagine 6 years of reading books that are blue.  No glitter. 

Not anymore!  I have a glitter book just waiting to be read to Sweet Pea and it is about how God loves and created her. 

Written by Andy Holmes (a favorite children’s author of mine) and illustrated by Sergey Eliseev, the My Princess Bible is a sweet book that reveals to young girls what it means to be a true princess, a daughter of the King.  Each chapter identifies a female from the Bible and how God used her in history, imparting that person’s worthy character trait to your child.  For example, in the story of Ruth it closes with the fact that “a princess (Ruth) loves her family.”  Following this, the parent adds, “Sweet Pea (or your child’s name) is God’s special princess.  Sweet Pea loves her family.”

I love the snapshots of each of these important characters in history that has shaped who we are today and the value that these historic women can still instill in the little girls we are called to train up in godliness and purity.

I recommend this book either as a gift or for the Godly princess growing in your life.  You can purchase it for $12.99 or try and win a copy over a MamaBuzz! 

I received this book for free from Tyndale House Publishers.  I was not paid for this post nor do I have to return this book. 

Eco Store USA: A Review

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that since we eat mostly whole foods and organic that I would also choose to purchase (or make) natural cleaning products. 

It is easier to make household cleaning products.  The one area of our life that I have yet to tackle is making our own soap, shampoo, and toothpaste. 

You know . . . I’m not so sure that I will EVER endeavor to turn bar soap recipes into a reality in our house.  I would rather buy something than spend the time over molds and mixing a bunch of stuff.  I just enjoy fermenting too much. 

Maybe suds could get me excited.  Maybe when I retire.

I don’t think I need to enjoy something else.

So, when given the opportunity to review two Eco Store USA products that are “natural,” I figured it was a win/win situation.  It helped the budget out and we got some new natural products.

Who is Eco Store?

Our eco friendly, plant-based household cleaning products are as effective as the leading supermarket brands, and our body and baby care ranges are gentle on your skin and are simply beautiful to use. All of our products are made from plant- and mineral-based ingredients, free of toxic chemicals that bring people closer to nature with non-toxic, environmentally safe solutions that also help to reduce our carbon footprint.

I sampled the Orange and Patchouli Body Wash ($8.50) and

the Rose and Cardamon Body Wash ($8.50).

Both fragrances smell pleasant and aren’t overly strong, which this prego appreciates.  Additionally, I can understand what the basic ingredients are derived from in bottles.  Now, I can’t pronounce all of them due to their scientific names. 

Two issues did arrive with my Eco Store shipment.  However, I am not really complaining because I did receive these products for FREE. 

1. The shipment kept being delayed.  HOWEVER, due to the delay (which I am assuming is because they were setting up their new store in Michigan), they sent two bars of soap as an apology.  I appreciate the gesture. 
2. BUT the bars of soap were expired.  Hmmm.  Now, I doubt that the expiration date is going to dissuade me from using the soap.  How can bar soap go bad?  Maybe it just doesn’t smell as strong? 

In a nutshell, the price is good over at Eco Store USA and so are the ingredients.  Check it out sometime!

This review is being written as part of my involvement with MamaBzz.  I received this product for free and do not have to return it.  Yahoo!

Technorati Tags: Eco Store USA,safe products

Purely Products: A Review and Giveaway

You can’t always wash your hands when you want to. 

Or your kids' hands.

And even though I typically use a shopping cart cover for Mr. Smiley when we are out and about . . . he often manages to find out what is underneath that colorful cover.

On the ride home those curious hands end up in his mouth along with some newfound, unwanted friends.  I cringe as he sits behind me . . . out of my reach.  I pray that he doesn’t pick up some weird germ that translates into three weeks worth of sick children. 

Seriously, I’m not a germ freak.  We lived in India.  We ate a lot of dirt.  I know that we need bacteria.  I grow HEALTHY bacteria.  My issue lies in the fact that when one child gets sick . . . everyone gets sick.  That is a lot of work for a mom (and dad and a grandma).

There is only one hand sanitizer that I use (I even sell it), but it is expensive.  And even though it doesn’t contain  unnatural science-experiment ingredients, I still don’t like the idea that my child might end up eating it. 

So, when given the opportunity to use and review the Pocket Purifier from Purely Products, I said, “Self, this is a kid friendly product that matches up with your blog.  Let’s try it out.”

What is the Pocket Purifier?  According to the Purely Products website,

the Pocket Purifier sanitizes surfaces and objects with the same UV-C light that sterilizes surgical instruments. Ultraviolet light and nanotechnology eliminate 99.9% of germs that cause colds and flu, plus e-coli, salmonella, mold, fungus and MRSA (staph). At home, at work, in public, for all high-touch surfaces, Pocket Purifier is the most environmentally responsible way to kill germs without chemicals

The Hottie was skeptical.  But I figured if I bought a vacuum cleaner with a UV light . . . then why wouldn't I use a hand purifier with the same UV-C light, too? 

I thought it would be the ideal size to carry it in my purse diaper bag.  Wouldn't leak . . . however, this idea proved faulty.  The plastic piece that is supposed to keep the batteries in place would not stay attached to said germ zapper.  Mental note: use tape if you want the appliance to work.

I was slightly dismayed because when I first turned the product on . . . it didn’t seem very bright or blue like my vacuum cleaner’s light.  But it does come with a warning to NOT look at the light.  (I did, though. I had to take a picture.)  I suppose the brightness doesn’t have to reflect the effectiveness, right?

It came out much brighter in the picture than in real life . . . or maybe that is just some photo editing.  (By the way, you can also purchase the Pocket Purifier in pink!)

Other convenient features -- a wrist strap, a kick stand. and a flash light.

So what are my thoughts?  Ohhhhh . . . I just don’t know.  I have to take Purely Product’s word that it does what it says it does.  But I would LOVE to do a real science experiment with this product and see if the bad guys’ DNA is rendered inactivate. I am sure this would be no cheap endeavor, though.

If you are addicted to hand sanitizer this little product might be what you need . . . you trust what the hand sanitizer bottle says, so why not trust Purely Products, too?  The Pocket Purifier is priced at $29.95.  How much do you spend on hand goo?

Want to try it out for yourself?

Win one.  Right here.

How to Enter (and yes my friends and family can enter . . . I use www.random.org to pick the winner . . . and you aren't friends with Mr. Random.  No one is. So enter to win ON MY BLOG NOT through a FACEBOOK COMMENT.)

When you leave a comment, make sure you are signed into DISQUE or you LEAVE your email address.  I have had so many people NEVER email me back . . . and lost their prize. 

Mandatory:  Tell me, are you a germ freak?

Optional Entries (meaning write a new and separate comment for each)

1. Become a fan of my blog (look over on the right sidebar) and tell me that you are or already were. 
2. Subscribe to the Granola Mom 4 God Feedburner – meaning you will get me in your in-box! 
3. Follow Purely Products on Twitter.
4. Become a fan of Purely Products on Facebook and let me know.
5. Tell me what SunMate is, because you will win this product in addition to the Pocket Purifier. 
6. Enter to win the EcoKids Play Dough giveaway or at least tweet about it as part of your entry for the Pocket Purifier giveaway. 
7. Buy something from Purely Products and get 25% off by using this link. (5 entries)  This discount will be available until August 5, 2010.  A percentage of the profit from your purchase will be given to www.diaperlove.org.

Giveaway Ends:  July 30, 2010 Midnight.

US and Canada residents only!

I was given the Pocket Purifier and Sunmate to review for free as part of my involvement with MamaBzz.  I do not have to return the product.  Yea! 

 

Technorati Tags: Purely Products,Pocket Purifier,Hand sanitizers

Graphic Novels . . . I mean Historical Graphic Novels -- A Review

If you will recall from my last Timberdoodle review, I fell in love with their catalogue while Mr. Smackdown enjoyed putting his puzzle globe together.

And if you will also recall, I love books. Love is a rather strong word. I love my husband. OK, I REALLY LIKE and ENJOY books. For this very reason I started my own meme If You Give a Mom a Book,

that ONLY two WONDERFUL people have participated in thus far. (Don’t feel like I am laying a guilt trip on any of you who have yet to participate. I would never do that.) {grin}

But I love appreciate swapping stories about books!

The boys and I recently had the chance to read several books from a different genre. Not one to read comic books, I was still interested in a set of eleven historical novels titled Stories from History: Graphic Novels featured in the Timberdoodle catalogue for $16.95.

Since reading Honey for a Child’s Heart, I have become more aware of the content in our literature. After surveying what we had been reading in school, I realized I had failed to teach the boys about people God created--who affect our world to this day. Graphic Novels seemed to meet that need. Additionally, I appreciated Timberdoodle’s description of this set of 11 books:

Tales from the past meet modern-day storytelling! Epic battles, secret plots, and brave warriors await readers in the nonfiction Stories From History Graphic Novel series. Discover history in a fast-paced format, taking readers right to the action! History has never been this exciting!

Please note: Page 13 of Gladiators and the Story of the Colosseum and page 26 of The Life of Leonardo Da Vinci may need a touch of white-out depending on your family's modesty standards. Also, The Discovery of T. Rex is not written from a young-earth perspective so it does make statements such as, "This huge beast lived 85-65 million years ago..." A touch of white out and/or some clarifying discussion can easily rectify that!

Features

Full-Color illustrations

Fact Boxes

Timeline, glossary, and index

I must admit that sometimes I don’t have time to preview what we are going to read. However, due to Timberdoodle’s note, I knew about questionable content ahead of time.

I don’t subscribe to the belief that my children should only be exposed to Christian books. Our world isn’t “Christian.” As a home educator of my children, it is my job to prepare my children to think with a Christian worldview in a secular world. They need to learn how to look at history, events, interactions with people, etc. in the context of how these situations fit into the grand scheme of the drama God has put us here on earth to partner with Him.

These books provided an avenue to discuss slavery, fighting, battle, the quest for power, art, compassion, perseverance, and endurance, to name a few. We thought about how we would react in the situations we read about.

Besides the history we have learned about in our Bible reading and snippets from our FIAR books, the Graphic Novels were the boys first encounter with a book dedicated to discussing and teaching history.

The recommended ages for these books are 8-14 year olds. Timberdoodle took a bit of a gamble on my kids . . . and won. Mr. Smackdown and Mr. Me-Too enjoyed these Graphic Novels whose topics were:

• Pizarro and the Incas
• The Life of Anne Frank
• The Building of the Great Pyramid
• The Life of Julius Caesar
• The Life of Christopher Columbus
• The Race to the South Pole
• Gladiators and the Story of the Colosseum
• The Life of Alexander the Great
• Elizabeth I and the Spanish Armada
• The Life of Leonardo Da Vinci
• The Discovery of T. Rex

My 3 and 5 year old sat enraptured on watching human nature unfold before them. It really was a privilege to be a part of this learning experience and interaction with my boys as their view of the world grew.

I would recommend this set of books definitely for the age level suggested, grades 3rd-8th. These would be especially beneficial to a young lad who struggled with the typical textbook approach to learning about historical events. If you have children who enjoy snuggling up on the couch for a good read . . . these books are applicable to a younger generation, but you may have to modify the content. Be prepared for questions. There is nothing wrong with questions. Who better to answer them then you?!

This is a Mama Buzz review written by Granola Mom 4 God. The product was provided by Timberdoodle for this review.

Technorati Tags: Timberdoodle,Graphic Novels,Comic books,MamaBzz

The Ultimate Cloth -- A Review

Many of you know that I make my own cleaning products, some of the time. Though my homemade aromatic cleansing creations work, they do require a little bit of elbow grease. But my elbow doesn't have much grease these days, as most of the elbow grease goes to controlling my tongue and practicing the fruits of the spirit--you know, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness and self-control.

So, when a little MamaBuzz email landed on my computer to review The Ultimate Cloth. . . I thought, "Self you might actually have a clean house without needing any extra elbow grease. If you don't have to make your own cleaning product and cleaning became somewhat of a novel experience . . . you just might clean."


The Ultimate Cloth must have been a sign from God . . . it's time to dust. Let me help you find an easier way.

I quickly replied and wanted to beg for a quantity appropriate for each room of the house, but I refrained my passion. However, if you no longer purchase the various household cleaning products, at $6.00 a cloth you could almost justify having an Ultimate Cloth for each room of your house. (I said almost . . . OK?)

What is it?

The Ultimate Cloth is eco-friendly solution for homes as well as a money and time saver. The Ultimate Cloth is a brand new technology – in fact, it is the only cloth to receive a new patent in the last 25 years. The Ultimate Cloth is a simple, green and effective one-step cleaning process. The Ultimate Cloth cleans any hard surface – glass, wood, granite, stainless steel and many more – with just water! No longer do you have to use harsh chemicals in your home, nor do you need spend hundreds of dollars per year buying them. The Ultimate Cloth has been lab tested to remove 96% of bacteria, without the use of chemicals. And, can cut 50% off your cleaning time. The Ultimate Cloth is truly the ultimate in green cleaning.

Does it work? Well, I want to be honest in that it is hard to teach an old dog new tricks. My cleaning goal is to keep the kitchen picked up and free of dishes, clean the downstairs and boys' bathroom on Wednesday evening, and keep the washer and dryer active at all times. The majority of the rest of my time is spent concocting some homemade fermented eatable, chatting with Hottie Hubby, homeschooling, blogging, or drinking chai. I soooooo wanted the Ultimate Cloth to lure me into the sea of dust and dirt like Sirens lured the sailors into captivity, except capture the dust for a positive outcome.

Here is what I learned. For starters, no matter what--to clean something . . .

You. Have. To. Actually. Clean. It.

You know, move something around. Setting a cloth out won't magically clean a dirty item. Thus, I came to realize that to get me to clean requires more than just a gimmick or a quick fix of fast results.

• I need to care.
• I need to make it a habit.
• I need to actually do it.

Fortunately, I did muster some motivation and cleaned a little bit Wednesday night. I can't remember the last time I actually put some Windex on our bathroom mirror. I can't stand to use chemicals and I get annoyed with the leftover gray film Windex leaves behind. With an "I'll show you" grin directed at The Ultimate Cloth,

I wet it down,
wrung it out
and wiped my very dusty mirror.

May I share with you that I do not wear glasses. Thus far, my vision has remained good. But I tell you that when I completed the inaugural use of The Ultimate Cloth, all of the sudden my vision felt like it had improved and was no longer blurry. Seriously! Our mirror was that clean!

I plan on tackling my white shower next. Will you join me in a challenge?

Would you like to receive a FREE Ultimate Cloth? All of my readers can receive an Ultimate Cloth by doing one or both of the following actions:

• follow Ultimate Cloth America on Twitter (http://twitter.com/Ultimate_Cloth)

and/or

• become a fan on Facebook by clicking here.

Read their tweets and/or updates and they will reveal how to get a free Ultimate Cloth.

Disclosure: This is a review by me for Mama Buzz. I received a complimentary Ultimate Cloth to use and share my opinion of with you. I do not have to return the Ultimate Cloth, nor do I have to pay them any money to keep it and continue using it. Maybe my house will get clean.