Classroom Friendly Pencil Sharpener Review and Giveaway!

One thing everyone needs is a good pencil sharpener.  My children use our pencil sharpener pretty much every day, and during the school year it gets a work out!   This year I have been home-schooling my two middle children and we have been using our classroom friendly Pencil Sharpener since fall.  It has worked out great for our homeschooling journey.


 So when Classroom Friendly Supplies offered to let my sister review their pencil sharpener as another homeschooler she was thrilled!

Classroom Friendly Supplies is a company started by an elementary school teacher who wanted a better sharpener that was also quite.

Here is a little blurb about her:

I am an elementary school teacher and the owner of Classroom Friendly Supplies. I first started selling these sharpeners after realizing that many fellow teachers were also completely fed up with the loud and inefficient pencil sharpeners that they had in their classrooms. I have thousands of happy customers and the feedback has all been consistently the same and extremely positive.

As teachers are obviously my biggest customers, I gladly accept school purchase orders. Please check this out in my School Purchase Orders tab above.

So what is my sisters opinion as a veteran homeschooler?  My sister loves the look of the sharpener she received.  It looks vintage and the colors are so cute!  She likes how well built and heavy this sharpener is.  It is well weighted which is important because it can be used free standing so that you don't have to anchor it to a table or wall.  Her children figured it out right out of the box (I had to watch the video on the website!).

 

What is really neat is you don't have to hold the pencil in while you sharpen it.  This is great for small kids who are still working on their small motor skills.  Here is a video on how to use it.  Here is my 5 year old figured it out after being shown once.  It is super simple!  My sister didn't want pics of her children on the net so these are my kiddos.








Both my sister and I like that this sharpener is well built, attractive, easy to use, quite, and affordable at $24.99.  This would be great for home-schoolers, classrooms, or as a gift for a teacher in your life.

Connect with Classroom Friendly Supplies

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Win Your Own!

Classroom Friendly Supplies has generously offered to give one of my lucky readers a pencil sharpener in color of their choice!  A $24.99 value!  Use the rafflecopter below, all entries are optional, all winning entries are verified for completion.

 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb985/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only.

Ergonomic Pen Review From UGlee Pen And a Giveaway!

Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial. http://www.tomoson.com/?code=TOP5cd1f7b92701704e9042da3de86f4906" rel="nofollow">http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png
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Do you have a problem with your hand hurting during or after writing?  I know I do!  I have always held my pen wrong, no use trying to change it at this late date.  Trust me I've tried.  But writing always hurts me.  Enter in the UGlee Pen!

The Ultimate Grip Pen by Dr. James Lee is a revolutionary ergonomic pen that is designed, created and used by a real physician. This Dr. inspired grip pen is redefining the way people view ergonomic pens.
 
Some of the Features of the UGlee Pen Are

FULL SIZE GRIP
Ultimate comfort! The overall shape as well as the detailed contours are perfectly engineered to follow the anatomy of the hand. You don't have to grip this material, it grips you.
 
WEIGHT
The UGLee Pen only weights 11 grams. That is less than 1/2 ounce! Less mass, means less inertia, more comfort.
 
INK
The UGLee Pen is mated with the smoothest ink system known, smoother than any roller ball, gel ink, or fountain ink pen.

This pen is amazing!  I love the squishy comfort and it even is helps me to hold my pen correctly without allot of stress on my hand.  My husband who has been using one as well loves it.  He writes allot at work and so a comfort pen is really helpful to him.  These pens are affordable, attractive looking, and most of all work!  They would be really perfect for someone with arthritis or hand joint pain! 

Connect with UGlee Pen

 

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Facebook

Twitter

Wordpress

 

Giveaway!

 

UGlee Pen has generously offered to give one lucky Thrifty Housewife reader a set of three UGlee Pens!  Use the rafflecopter to enter, all entries are optional, all winning entries will be verified for completion.

 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb984/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only.  All winning Entries are verified. 

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using http://www.tomoson.com/?code=BOTTOM5cd1f7b92701704e9042da3de86f4906" rel="nofollow">Tomoson.com

. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Dr. Woods All Natural Soaps Review And Giveaway!

I love all natural soaps and cleaners.  Not just because I have allergies to regular store bought soaps, but also because there is mounting evidence that the constant saturation of chemicals over years in a normal American home is causing many illnesses and diseases.  Every day we apply tons of chemicals in our soaps, lotions, deodorants, and makeup that not only are not natural, but contain compounds proven to cause cancer and other diseases! For me finding and using natural products is a must!

So when Dr. Woods Soap company offered to let me review some of their products I was thrilled! Dr. Woods Soap is a company that produces castile liquid soap, bars soaps, facial cleansers, and shea soaps all right here in the USA!  They use only natural ingredients and their products are 100% Natural & Vegan, Paraben & Phthalate Free, No Petroleum Derivatives, and No SLS!  None of their products are tested on animals and are Made In The USA.

Here is their philosophy -

We want to feel good in all ways – from what we put on our skin or in our body, to how we treat others and our environment. We want to feel special and indulged, without being wasteful of robbing future generations of our natural resources.

That’s why we strive to use only the most natural, effective and sustainable ingredients we can find.
We make everything here in the USA, but search the world sourcing the finest ingredients for our products to create a brand we believe in… a brand that makes a difference by doing what’s right for you, your family and our planet.

I received two products from Dr. Woods for the purpose of review.  The Garden Cucumber Raw Shea Butter Soap which is under $3.00.  And the Lavender Liquid Castile Soap at $10.99 for 32 oz.

First I reviewed Tea Tree Castile Soap which is very mild, moisturizing and versatile for everyday use as a body wash, facial cleanser, shampoo, and bath soak. It didn't make me break out (I seem to be allergic to something in many soaps) and are vegetable based, containing no animal fat. They are natural and biodegradable, perfect for consumers who care about the environment.

Castile Soap contains olive oil, giving it natural healing properties and the ability to attract moisture and hold it close to the skin to form a breathable layer that prevents moisture loss. Dr. Woods Castile Soap does not contain any harsh detergents that can strip away skin’s natural moisture. The Vitamin E rich lather leaves skin feeling naturally soft and clean and I loved the lavender scent.  Dr. Woods is eco-friendly and ideal for guilt free camping and laundry.  I put this soap into a foaming hand soap dispenser and use it all the time by the kitchen sink.  I wash my hands constantly due to cooking and cleaning so a non irritating, soothing hand soap is essential.  This castile soap from Dr. Woods fits the bill.  I like the tea tree scent which is not overpowering.


The Skin Lightening Rose Bar I received was something I really wanted to try. Here is a description of it's benefits.

The Skin Lightening Rose Bar helps even skin discoloration and clear blemishes, while our luxurious fragrance provides the escape you crave… and deserve. This special formulation effectively lightens the skin, fades dark spots and delicately cleanses and nourishes your complexion to a healthy, elegant glow. 

 I have a problem with blemishes and uneven skin tone on my face.  The blemishes are usually caused by me being stupid and trying something like a makeup product that is not natural and breaking out in sores all over my face!  I can only use soaps on my face I have found, every facial cleanser I have used make me break out horribly not in zits but actual sores! After using the Skin Lightening Rose Bar for only a few days I not only did not break out, but noticed my face was much smoother and softer and my skin discolorations were less noticeable.  I love this bar and now it is going to become a must have on hand item in my home. 

I also received Dr. Woods Garden Cucumber Bar Soap.  This is a rich moisturizing and healing soap for my hands and body and I like the light scent.  It I also very affordable at $3.00 a bar.

 Dr. Woods100% NaturalRaw Shea Butter Bar Soap Garden Cucumber with Mint Leaf Exfoliant gently cleans and rejuvenates your skin to a fresh garden glow. Organic Shea Butter, Crushed Mint Leaves and Vitamin E complement this refreshing fragrance with antioxidants and natural soothing properties that maintain your skin's health and youthful clarity. Dr. Woods Garden Cucumber Shea Butter Soap utilizes nature's essential elements to strengthen and refresh your skin.

In conclusion Dr. Woods Soaps is a great Made In The USA company that produces high quality, natural, affordable soaps.  I would recommend these to anyone looking for natural body care products.  They carry a full line of liquid and bar soaps in all sorts of scents.

Connect With Dr. Woods Soaps

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Twitter

 

The Giveaway!

 

 

Dr. Woods is giving one lucky Thrifty Housewife reader Two Bars of their Baby Mild Unscented Bar Soap.  Use the Rafflecopter to enter, all entries are optional, all winning entries will be verified for completion.  Good Luck!
 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb983/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only.  All winning Entries are verified. 

Emerson Creek Pottery Review And Giveaway

 

I love stoneware pottery.  I like the simplicity of the form, the colors used, and how even though beautiful they are durable.  So when Emerson Creek Pottery offered to let me review one of their items I was thrilled!

 

 

 

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Emerson Creek Pottery artisans are continuing the American tradition of handmade pottery in a contemporary way. The property on which Emerson Creek Pottery sits was originally a 500-acre land grant from the King of England. In 1825, Silas Wade acquired the land and built his two room, and two story log cabin, now the home of Emerson Creek Pottery.

 

Our handcrafted ceramics are formed of clay made onsite. Each piece is hand made, hand painted and fired in a gas kiln. Each pattern is a series of carefully planned strokes. No templates or stencils are used. The patterns are practiced and committed to memory. The artists paint the pattern again and again. Each piece is alike and yet different, like flowers in a field. We are currently featuring 13 different lines of ceramic pottery, including our beloved signature line - Field of Iris, a classic since 1977. All of our work is microwave and dishwasher safe, lead free and ovenproof.

 

 

 

 

Emerson Creek Pottery history and high standards are a major selling point for me.  Especially that they are Made in the USA!  I hate buying things made in China because the standards there are so lax when it comes to toxic chemicals.  I always worry that things I buy from China for cooking are high in lead, but with Emerson Creek I can feel completely assured of the safety of their pottery.

 

It took me quite awhile to choose the item I wanted to review because frankly I love so much of their pottery!  I finally picked the Oval Serving Tray in American Blue.  I personally love this blue color and would happily decorate my house in it.  There are tons of different patterns and colors you can choose from.  You could get entire sets to match.  The minute I took it out of the box I could see how well made it was. The quality is just amazing. The serving tray is perfect for serving rolls or as you see above the main dish of our dinner.

 

There are several items now on my wish list from Emerson Creek Pottery.  There is just so many different baking dishes, plates, or tea sets that are beautiful and functional.  I would recommend Emerson Creek Pottery to anyone wanting high quality, affordable, USA made stone ware.  They would also make amazing gifts(hint hint to any family members reading this)!

 

 

Connect with Emerson Creek Pottery

 

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The Giveaway!

 

Emerson Creek Pottery has generously offered to give one lucky Thrifty Housewife reader a Honey Pot of their very own in winners choice of pattern!  Use the rafflecopter to enter, all entries are optional, all winning entries will be verified.  Good Luck!
 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb982/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org. All entries are optional.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only. 

Natural Body Care From Acure Organics Review And A Spring Beauty Giveaway!

 

As I have gotten older I have developed allergies to many skin care products and soaps.  This is really annoying because it causes me to break out in itchy eczema all over my hands which are exposed the most, and also finding makeup and facial cleanser is really difficult.  I say I "developed" allergies but an even more likely cause is the companies changing their ingredients.  Many producers are changing to cheaper products because of the economy.  Rather than raise prices they prefer to keep them the same but sacrifice quality.

 

I have reviewed products from Acure Organics before and was so thrilled that my skin didn't react with hives or eczema.  So when they offered to let me try some of their new products I was more than happy!

 

Here is a blurb on Acure Organics:

We're on a mission...

We like to believe that we create the purest, natural and organic plant-based skincare products. Simplicity is the key to our formulas. In keeping each ingredient as close to its natural state as possible, we feel that our products deliver visible, more potent results. Each decision we make is based upon our three guiding principles: 


ACURE FOR YOUR SKIN

High quality skin care made from the purest, fair trade, natural and certified organic ingredients.  

ACURE FOR THE PLANET

We have a sustainable company culture that impacts every decision we make.

• Green packaging

• Green products

• Social Consciousness

• Triple Bottom Line

ACURE FOR A CURE

Each day, we are bombarded by harmful chemicals in cosmetic products. ACURE wants to help eliminate people’s exposure to toxic chemicals in cosmetics and help educate them on the benefits of food-grade, organic ingredients. 
 

 That sounds pretty amazing huh?  They sent me three products to try but the first I sampled was the mandarin orange + moroccan argan stem cell advanced triple moisture body lotion $9.99.  I have a terrible time finding lotions because so many of them cause me to break out in hives. This like the other Acure's body lotions not only didn't cause any break outs but is a lovely lotion as well.  I really love the citrus scent which is very uplifting and not too sweet.  It absorbs right in and left my hands especially feeling smooth and soothed.  Acure Organics is Paraben Free, Sulfate Free, Cruelty Free, Gluten Free, and contains no Synthetic Fragrance!  This is probably why I had no reactions! It is by far the best body lotion I have tried ever.  I was even able to use it on my son who is allergic to most lotions due to the chemicals used.  He has eczema due to those allergies and also very dry skin.  I nervously applied it too his arms but was happy to see that he didn't break out!  Now I use it on his face, neck, and arms all the time!  Thank you Acure!

 

They also sent me their sensitive unscented body wash $9.99.  This is a great body wash that is also deeply moisturizing.  We have been using it at the pool after getting out and showering.  We go to the pool almost every day for me to work out so a really mouisturizing body wash is so helpful  to counteract the drying effect of the chlorine.

Last I got to review their moroccan argan oil + argan stem cell shampoo moisture repairing and moroccan argan oil + argan stem cell conditioner triple moisture repairing set.  I like the scent which is slightly tropical and it really moisturizes dry hair without weighing it down which is important to me since I have curly hair and heavy conditioning tends to wheigh the curls.   The shampoo and conditioner are loaded with omega 7, CoQ10. and Argan Oil to keep your hair healthy. The ingredients that make the Moroccan Argan Oil and Argan Stem Cell formulation a rock star include Sunflower Lysine, Argan Stem Cells, and Sea Buckthorn. The Sunflower Lysine acts as natural cortisone and blocks the histamine response in skin so it balances, soothes and provides anti-inflammation support. The Argan Stem Cells help to strengthen hair retention boost moisture content and hair regeneration. Sea Buckthorn contains a ton of essential fatty acids and helps support buildup of the skin's lipid layers. Finally, for those concerned with thinning of the hair or hair loss, the zinc and magnesium from the Pumpkin Seed oil helps block DHT (dihydrotestosterone) build up in the follicle. DHT is the hormone often responsible for stress hair loss and male/female pattern hair loss.

In Conclusion

I would recommend Acure Organics to anyone looking for reasonably priced, high quality organic beauty products that really have made a difference in my family and my own skin and hair!

Connect with Acure Organics

 

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The Giveaway!

 

Acure Organics is giving on lucky Thrifty Housewife reader a bottle of the  Sensitive Skin Body Wash and The Mandarin Orange and Moroccan Argan Body Lotion to get your skin looking great for spring!  Enter via the Rafflecopter below, all entries are optional,  all winning entries are verified for completion.
 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb981/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only.

Heat Holders Socks Review and Giveaway!

 

I heat my home with wood, so cold feet is something that happens.  Before I get the fire started in the morning the house is downright chilly and as I am the first one up I always get cold as no one has started the wood stove up yet.  Keeping my feet warm is a daily challenge.  Even in wool socks they are cold!

 

I had never heard of Heat Holders before, but when they offered to let me review several of their socks I was thrilled!  Temperatures here have been in the single digits with more on the way!

 

Heat Holders was established in 1947 in England. At that time the company used to trade yarn. The last few decades the company has been manufacturing, importing and distributing socks. Their North American office is based out of Oakville, Ontario in Canada.

 

Heat Holders was developed by their talented product development team in house. The challenge was to make a sock that would be the warmest sock ever and comfortable and practical to wear in daily life. Their team came up with Heat Holders in 2008.  Since then  they have sold more than 10 million pairs worldwide and continues to grow.

 

 

Heat Holders sent me three pairs to review.  One for myself, my husband, and my son.  They are made from 91% Acrylic, 5% Nylon, 3% Polyester, 1% Elastane.  They come in Men's, Women's, and Kid's with dozens of styles and colors and even Women's Wellington Boot Socks that are so darn cute I want a pair!

 

When I first put my pair on I was AMAZED.  Ok people I don't get excited about clothing items that often, but these are hands down the most comfortable, warm, cushy, your feet are in a warm cloud socks I have ever worn.  My son and husband both concur with my reaction and my son LOVES his so much that I can't get them away from him to wash them without underhanded skulduggery.

 

I have worn these out and about and in the house and they stay put but keep my feet warm as can be.  Even when I was out in the 2 feet of snow we got recently.  Through frequent washing they still have kept their shape.

 

These would be amazing for camping or as a gift to someone you know that has cold feet allot.  Also a great gift at Christmas in stockings even though that's far away!  Winter still is roaring away with little indication of ending anytime soon so I know I will be loving my Heat Holder Socks for a long while yet and so will my family.  If you are looking for socks that are absolutely the most cushy and warm ever you should give these a try!

 

Connect with Heat Holders

 

Website

Twitter

Facebook

Youtube

 

Giveaway!

 

Heat Holders has been super generous by giving one lucky Thrifty Housewife reader two pairs of their original Heat Holders in the winners choice of sex, size, and color!  Use the Rafflecopter to enter, all entries are optional, all winning entries will be verified for completion.  Good Luck!

 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb980/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This post may contain affiliate links. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only.  All winning Entries are verified. 

Tommy Nelson Christian Children's Books Review and HUGE Giveaway!

I will admit that I am a book-aholic.  I love to read and have collected a huge amount of children's books over the years for my kids.  But I am pretty choosy.  I want great illustrations, a positive or useful lesson, and entertaining reading.  This can be kind of difficult to find in children's books, especially Christian books!

When Tommy Nelson offered to let me become a reviewer of their books I was very excited.  My love of books made this a fun opportunity!  The books they sent me for review are all children's books for the very young to age 10 or 11. 

 Tommy Nelson, the children’s division of Thomas Nelson, Inc., was created to place into the hands of children of all ages a wide variety of high quality, enjoyable products that are consistent with the teachings found in the Bible. Our products are designed to expand children’s imaginations and nurture their faith while pointing them to a personal relationship with God.

My 9 year old daughter and 10 year old son's favorite is the God and Me 365 Daily Devotions Book.  I enjoy using it during our home school time at breakfast when all the children are sitting down together.  I have been wanting a good family daily devotional for some time, but needed something that appealed to my youngsters and would be understandable to them.



Each day has a focus such as friendship, cleanliness, emotions, etc.  Then it directs you to a section in the bible that applies to the subject. Following that is a short prayer about the subject.  I have the older kids look up the verse and it has helped teach how to locate them in the Bible.  This has also started some great conversations at the table and sets our day up right with a focus on a relationship with Jesus.  This book is a good fit for ages 4 to 11 and I find it great as a mom because a short daily bible time is just as important to me!


My 5 year old sons favorite book Tommy Nelson sent is the little book of bedtime.   Every nap time (yes he still takes a two hour nap, is falling asleep by 8, and wakes up around 6:30) we cuddle in my big comfy bed and read a few pages together.  This little cardboard book is full of  lovely poems about sleep, night-time, and God.


 Each poem is accompanied by a verse or sweet quote.  Viking Boy calls this his bedtime book and asks for it every naptime and bedtime.  It is illustrated in precious moments and would make such a great baby shower gift or toddler gift.  The poems are just long enough to hold a toddlers attention.  As a mom these moments with my youngest and probably last child are priceless!

Jesus and Me Bible Storybook is a great way to introduce a young child to who Jesus is, why He came, what He did, and why He died for us.  Really explaining who Jesus is to young children can be challenging, but this book makes it so simple and fun for kids.  The illustrations are colorful and flowing, and the stories which cover Jesus's birth, life, lessons, death and resurrection are short and informative enough that you don't loose the children's attention.  Each story of Jesus's life is accompanied by a Jesus and Me devotion that explains how the story is important in our own lives.  There is also a short prayer and a listing of the versus used so that you can look them up for further discussion thus extending the use  of the book for older children.  This is such a neat little book!  It is well thought out as to the needs of small children and their relationship with Jesus.  It keeps Gods word engaging without loosing it's way and shows children how even though they are young Jesus still cares for them and wants to be part of their lives.  This is a great book for preschoolers up to age 10 in my opinion!  I would love to read it to every child I meet so they can know about God's love for us!

The last book I reviewed is being used by my 16 year old daughter.  One God, One Plan, One Life is an excellent daily devotional for a busy teen, which my daughter is!  Max Lucado is the author and has written many books and this one is very good.  It is not an in depth bible study or something that's going to take your teen an hour to finish.  This is a good thing I think because most teenagers are so stretched doing different activities and school that they need something that is not going to require a huge time commitment but still offer a real biblical perspective (I've been reading it too!)

Daily devotions address such topics as faith and obedience but also offer wisdom on topics that teens battle, such as purity, bullying, alcohol and drug use, and self-image. Each day includes a short devotion and accompanying scripture as well as a take-away application that will inspire and challenge teens to trust in God and His plans for them.

This is not an in depth study, but will give your teen the knowledge that we walk with God every day and every minute and can turn to Him in every situation.
 

 The selection and prices of Tommy Nelson is excellent and I love the books they sent me!  I would recommend them to anyone!

 

Connect with Tommy Nelson

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Facebook

Twitter

 

The Giveaway!

 

Tommy Nelson has generously offered to give all four books I was sent to one lucky Thrifty Housewife Reader! Use the Rafflecopter to enter, all entries are optional, all winning entries will be verified to see if they are completed.  Good Luck!

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb979/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This post may contain affiliate links. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only.  All winning Entries are verified. 

 

Finding Contentment At Home

I have a confession.

I have a problem with contentment.

I have always found it challenging to be contented where I am.  I constantly want to do more.  More canning, more baking, more activities, more gardening!  If I sit down with nothing to do I feel uneasy.  Like I should be accomplishing something.

At the same time however I was constantly praying for contentment.  I knew that my heart was not right, and yet all my prayers seemed unanswered.  This was mainly because instead of submitting my will to God and what His plan was for me.  I was always striving for my way and my goals!  I thought, well if its good for my family then God would want me to do it right?  And of course God does want good things for us.  He wants to bless us.  But He also knows that even though something may seem great  it can turn into a burden in the end.

So when I finally did start submitting my will to God and trusting Him an amazing thing happened.  I had contentment and peace!  It is true what the bible says

Mathew 11:28

"Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

This verse was constantly presented to me when I was going through my crises.  But I ignored the key words so long.  Come to Me it says.  God is beckoning to us, urging us, entreating us to just come to Him.  Like a father holding out His arms to a small child He calls us to run to Him and be enfolded in His loving protective arms and rest.  And like an innocent child if we just trust Him he will give us rest.  How beautiful that is!  

I was never raised with a loving father and missed that presence and love my whole life.  Because of my lack of a father I had a very hard time grasping the love of my God.  To me fathers were hurtful, cruel, and abusive.  There was no protection from them.  In fact if anything they taught me not to trust.   It took me being humbled by illness to start to trust God with my life.  But I will say I have never ever been disappointed. God does not fail us, even in our darkest storm.

Which is where I come in now.  Now I am so contented to just stay home and do my job.  But at the same time those little foxes sneak in.  I think to myself, and I'm not kidding, that I shouldn't be so contented.  I should be wanting to do things like go to the church for groups, I should be volunteering, I should not be contented!  Isn't it funny how even when we get what we want from God Satan sneaks in and starts trying to convince us it's not enough.

Just like when Eve was in the garden!  Here she was in the most beautiful place ever, every need satisfied, she was even able to speak with her creator, and Satan convinced her it was not enough!  

I have to sometimes take a time out and remember to rest in The Lord.  Also God gives us some great direction and encouragement in His word about our responsibilities as women.  

Titus 2

the older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanderers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things— ⁴ that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, ⁵ to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.


And of course Psalm 31 which outlines what a truly great lady is like.  Notice that it never says for her to work outside the home.  Only to work in the home.  It never says she needs to be volunteering or doing church work, only that she should help the poor.  Her focus, which is a huge job, is on her home and family.

The Virtuous Wife

¹⁰ Who^[b] can find a virtuous^[c] wife?
For her worth is far above rubies.
¹¹ The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain.
¹² She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
¹³ She seeks wool and flax,
And willingly works with her hands.
¹⁴ She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar.
¹⁵ She also rises while it is yet night,
And provides food for her household,
And a portion for her maidservants.
¹⁶ She considers a field and buys it;
From her profits she plants a vineyard.
¹⁷ She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms.
¹⁸ She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her lamp does not go out by night.
¹⁹ She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hand holds the spindle.
²⁰ She extends her hand to the poor,
Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.
²¹ She is not afraid of snow for her household,
For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
²² She makes tapestry for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
²³ Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
²⁴ She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies sashes for the merchants.
²⁵ Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come.
²⁶ She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the law of kindness.
²⁷ She watches over the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
²⁸ Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
²⁹ “Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.”
³⁰ Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
³¹ Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates.

Play It Safe Toys Review and a Giveaway!

 

Safe toys are very important to every parent.  We want our children to have fun, but also not be exposed to lead or toxic chemicals.  Up until recently you didn't have much of a choice on toys.  You got what you got and hoped that they were safe.  Now, however, there are companies that consider providing nontoxic, fun, and educational toys their mission.  It can be hard finding them though!  It can take hours of searching online.  With four children of my own I know just how challenging finding these toys can be!

 

Play It Safe Toys is devoted to finding the best in children's toys that are not only fun but safe and non-toxic.  The lovely lady Justine who founded the company describes why she started her business.

As a Mom, I always worry about the kinds of things my kids put in their mouth.  In recent years, I have become even more skeptical about toy quality and safety.  I know when I go shopping online for my kids it can be very difficult to find quality toy brands all in one place.   I created this site so that parents and family members can find vetted quality toy brands in one spot.  You can rest assured that I only carry brands that I would comfortable with my kids playing with. 

 

Play It Safe Toys really does have a great selection of pretty much anything you could want for your child.   Their site is very easy to navigate and has links that take you to different interests, age groups, and types of play.  My kids loved browsing through the toys and earmarked many into the "Iwant" category!

 

Play It Safe Toys sent me two different toys for review.  The first is for older children.  It is their Traditional Wooden Stilts which retail for $50.00.  These are for kids 8 and up.

 

These eco-friendly stilts are just like your favorite uncle used to make!  We make them using regional hardwoods, like maple and beech.  The uprights are available in two heights - 47-1/2" (#08804) or 57-1/2" tall (#08805).  The footrests adjust from 5-1/2" to 14-1/2".  The bottom position provides an extra large base for better balance.  Stilt walking hints are included.  

 

They shipped very quickly and came in a nice secure box with lots of padding.  Assembly was quick and easy and my children were so excited to try them out!  I noticed the wood is very smooth and well sanded so there are no slivers.  Also they are very well made and the hardware is high quality so that there is no slipping or wiggling on the screws.   It only took my two middle children  ages 9 and 10 about 5 minutes to figure out how to use them and they LOVE them.  unfortunately it has been really icy and snowy so we couldn't use them outside so all my pics are of the kids in the living room.  These are going to be great this spring for the kids running around the yard! 

 

 

 

The other toy is their Bathtub Ball Shark Tank $24.00 ages 3+.

 

This heavy duty rubber playset is ideal for bathtub and summertime pool time play. The shark tank set features a natural rubber shark tank, hero diver with old time diving helmet, rubber octopus, and 2 shark characters. The bathtub ball doubles as a carry case and is great for clean up time! Because of it's natural material it is naturally free from BPA, PVC, and other chemicals associated with traditional plastic. Dishwasher Safe!
 
I really like this toy.  It is fun in the tub without leaching any harmful chemicals into the water.  My son who is 5 loves playing with the toys it comes with and enacts many battles.  One thing that is great about it is that you can throw it in the dishwasher for quick cleaning.
 
I would recommend Play It Safe Toys to anyone looking for toys they can trust!  Things I like about Play It Safe Toys is the knowledge that the toys are non toxic and well made, selection, affordability, quick shipping, and good customer service.
 

Connect With Play It Safe Toys

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Mailing List

 

The Giveaway!

Play It Safe Toys has generously offered to give one lucky Thrifty Housewife reader a Bathtub Ball Shark Tank of their very own.  Use the rafflecopter to enter, all entries are optional, all winning entries will be verified for completion.  Good Luck!

 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb978/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This post may contain affiliate links. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only.  All winning Entries are verified. 

 

SimpleMills Gluten Free Baking Mixes Review And A Giveaway!

Gluten free is really important to people now a days.  But lets face it, some of the gluten free foods are just bad tasting.  I want to eat food that tastes good and not like a punishment!  So when SimpleMills offered to send me some of their baking mixes for a review I was really interested!  I have never tried them before so this was going to be a big learning experience for me.  I rarely use mixes because I don't trust the ingredients.  I feel most stuff you buy in the grocery store not only is packed with all sorts of useless junk, but also its full of stuff that's bad for me and my family!

After reading on the SimpleMills website I felt not only comfortable with their ingredients, but also very happy because they are so high quality! They always use simple ingredients.  No corn derivatives, no weird soy phrases, no funky colors, no words you can't pronounce.  Everything they use is easily available in nature. 

SimpleMills Mixes Are

• Grain-Free
• Gluten-Free
• Low-Glycemic
• Non-GMO
• Dairy-Free

So the big test was how did they taste?  The first mix I tried was the Chocolate Muffin Mix.  But Ack!  I realized I had just thrown out my muffin cups after I already had started mixing them.  So I decided to make it into a chocolate bread loaf instead and prayed it would turn out!  I was impressed on how easy these mixes are to mix up.  Very convenient!  It was super fast to get into the oven and oh my goodness it smelled so good baking.  I could smell the chocolate!


My kids could smell it too and were sniffing around asking what was for snack!  When it came out of the oven it looked fine and smelled wonderful. 





Then I turned it out after it cooled a bit and did a little simple powdered sugar icing mixed with chocolate extract.  It turned out perfect and moist.  That's something





Then I sliced it up and served it for snack.  The verdict?  Lets just say that it didn't last the day!  My kids, even my very picky eater loved it and asked for more.  And did I like it?  Um yes I did!  It was so good and would be perfect as a treat, but its pretty good for you too!  So I didn't feel guilty about eating it!

 Also I am very sensitive to sugar and carbs.  If I eat a sweet treat I usually feel it hitting my system, but because SimpleMills is low glycemic it didn't hit my blood sugar like a normal muffin or cake would.  The Pumpkin turned out just as good and was amazing smeared with cream cheese!

 

Things I liked about SimpleMills and why I heartily recommend them

 

• Easy and Super Fast To Mix Up and bake- A Healthy convenience Food
• GMO Free, Gluten Free, Low Glycemic Index
• Delicious and even my kids loved them
• A baking mix I feel good about using because the ingredients are good for you
• Didn't affect my blood sugar
• Affordable Price Compared to other Gluten Free Mixes

 

 

Connect With SimpleMills

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The Giveaway!

SimpleMills has generously offered to give one lucky Thrifty Housewife reader both their Chocolate and Banana Muffin Mixes! Use the Rafflecopter to enter, all entries are optional, all winning entries are verified.  Good Luck!

 

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33ddb977/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

The Thrifty Housewife was not compensated for this post, I did receive a sample product(s) for the purposes of review. This did not influence my review or my opinions. My views are 100% my own. This post may contain affiliate links. This giveaway is not affiliated with facebook, pinterest, twitter, or any other social media website.  The winner will be chosen through the rafflecopter form which uses Random.org.  Winner will be notified by email within 48 hours of contest end.  Winner has 24 hours to respond to the  email.  Failure to respond will result in a new winner being chosen.  Open to US only.  All winning Entries are verified.