#Amazed By Grace {Deseret Book Review}

What is grace? What difference can grace make in our lives? How does the Savior make His power available to us? And what must we do to gain access to that power?

In Amazed by Grace, Sheri Dew discusses each of those important questions, exploring a topic that she describes as being central to the Atonement of Jesus Christ. "The most compelling, most life-changing message of all time," she writes, "is that Jesus Christ has already triumphed over sin, death, hell, temptation, and every kind of misery."

I have always loved Sheri Dew.  When I joined the church she was a counselor in the General Relief Society Presidency.  She is just so "real" that I felt like she was one person that I could really relate to.  She has never married and I appreciate her optimism and enthusiasm for life even through the trial of being single (when church expectations are otherwise).  I wish that I had been able to face the future with such bravery and faith when we were going through the trial of being childless (also something the church expects otherwise).

I have read (I think) every book Sheri Dew has published.  She is an insightful woman.  This book, Amazed by Grace, was another winner.  She discusses Grace, what it is, and the idea of it being "after we have done everything we can do."  I was blown away by the end of the first chapter when I realized that I had been defining "grace" wrong and I actually had no idea what it was or what it was all about.  It was an easy read.  Sister Dew has a special knack for making complex topics understandable for those that read them.  Sister Dew's unique style of writing is very conversational.  I would sure love to meet her in person one day!

This book is small, perfect for gifting.  (Mothers day is right around the corner!). You can purchase it as a Bookshelf eBook or as a hardcover.

Disclaimer:  I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions here are my own.

The First Easter Ever {BookLook Review}

It's not very often I run across a really great kids book that focuses on the events leading up to Easter. The first Easter is often viewed as a tragic time but in reality it is a joyous occasion.  Jesus did what God had asked him to do, to provide a sacrifice for sin and demonstrate Gods love for us by offering his only Son.  This kids book is perfect for reflecting on the joy that is Easter.  Starting with Jesus' ministry we see John the Baptist, his selection of disciples, and his preaching to the people.  We do see Jesus upon the cross but it is tastefully done for small children. 

I have enjoyed every book we own that is illustrated by Dennis Jones.  So well done!  This book is also an awesome little paperback (not a board book).  My 5 year old has happily toted this book around the house.  Check out The First Easter Ever.  It will be a nice addition to your library.  :)

Disclaimer:  I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

To My Friends {Deseret Book Review}

"If you need a burden lifted, I want you to imagine I am in a personal, private, closed-door chat with you. I want to help you if I can." With those words, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland invites every reader of his latest book to become a friend, to receive instruction and encouragement, counsel and comfort.

I love Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.  Ok, I admit, I love all the apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  :)  It seems to me that whenever an apostle opens his mouth you can just feel the love and concern for us pouring out.  This new book by Elder Holland is a compilation of past talks with beautifully designed quotations pages on a rich background of color.  It's true that I have heard many of these talks before but they are still wonderful to have in a nice hardbound volume.  His words of comfort and messages of counsel are timeless. 

In this book, Elder Holland addresses these powerful messages "to my friends who love the Lord," "to my friends who want to change," "to my friends who face opposition," and more. Throughout, Elder Holland's powerful witness of the Savior shines through, for, as he writes, "I am grateful for the greatest friend any of us could ever have, in time or eternity, the Lord Jesus Christ."

I enjoyed reading through these messages.  Some I was hearing for the 2nd time but some I was hearing for the 1st time.  (I'm a convert!)  As, I was reading, I was sure wishing I had the ability to frame the beautiful artwork and hang it in my house!  This book would make a lovely gift for a dear friend or family member (think, Mothers/Fathers day is right around the corner!)

To My Friends retails at DeseretBook.com as both a Booshelf eBook and a very lovely hardcover.

Disclaimer:  I received To My Friends free of charge in exchange for an honest review.  Thank you Deseret Book for the opportunity!

Orscheln Chick Days

It's always great to find something to do that is educational, free and fun!  This morning we headed to Orschelns Farm and Home store to check out all the baby chicks at their annual Chick Days!  The employees there are so patient and sweet with the girls and they were able to pick up the chicks and hold them.  I believe this is going on all month so check it out!  Kayley, my nature girl, LOVED it...and Maggie, my girl who likes all things soft and cuddly, was in Heaven. 

A baby turkey...

Those are "fryers."  

Kayley was horrified when she realized that meant they were to eat!

Homeschool Science - the Mentos Fountain!

We have had a lot of fun using Dr. Jay Wile's Science in the Beginning.  I have never had a chance to do this experiment before so it was all new for everyone when we did the Mentos Fountain!

Kayley wore my apron to protect her clothes in case it rained Diet Coke on her, but she dropped the majority of the Mentos on the ground and so the spewing of Diet Coke was slightly anti-climactic, but still FUN!