Jesus Led Me All the Way

by: 

Margaret Stringer

Book Bio from Amazon: A missionary-preacher, teacher, medic, and friend-to the province of Papua, Indonesia, Stringer lived her love for Christ and His children to the exclusion of personal gain and modern convenience. Through detailed memory, anecdotes and excerpts from her journals, she shares the array of unforgettable characters she lived, worked and praised with for forty years. Living out love is an evocative, soul-stirring phrase, containing nothing of the worldly, starry-eyed, stomach-a-flutter ethereal. Rather, the concept seems very like the hammering out of salvation on God’s own glowing forge; teaching a man to fish instead of sending him a manual. To witness such zeal and faith must surely be a moving experience for any minister, and certainly much more so to one who works in distant and primitive lands. Jesus Led Me All the Way is simply one of the most engaging and immersive recollections of a missionary life ever written.

My Review: Margaret Stringer’s enthusiasm and love for Christ is contagious! I loved reading about her life’s work among the jungles of Indonesia. A wonderful missionary biography!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Being Elisabeth Elliot

by: 

Ellen Vaughn

Book Bio from Amazon: Elisabeth Elliot was a young missionary in Ecuador when members of a remote Amazonian indigenous people group killed her husband Jim and his four colleagues. And yet, she stayed in the jungle with her young daughter to minister to the very people who had thrown the spears, demonstrating the power of Christ’s forgiveness.
 
This courageous, no-nonsense Christian went on to write dozens of books, host a long-running radio show, and speak at conferences all over the world. She was a pillar of coherent, committed faith—a beloved and sometimes controversial icon. And while things in the limelight might have looked golden, her suffering continued refining her in many different and unexpected ways.
 
Her early years, related in Becoming Elisabeth Elliot, traced the transition of a young woman who dealt in “certainties” to the woman who lived with the unknown.
 
Now, being Elisabeth Elliot increasingly meant confronting how much she did not understand. She sought her reference point beyond her own experiences, always pondering what she called the “impenetrable mystery” of the interplay between God’s will and human choices.
 
And it is that strange mystery which shaped the rest of her startling life story.

My Review: I have mixed emotions about this book. As an EE fan, I feel the author disclosed personal struggles, sin, and intimate details that taint ones view of Elisabeth. I did walk away reminded that Jesus is our only perfect example. While we can learn much from the lives of others, we should not model our lives after fallen men and women.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

A Family Guide to Narnia

by: 

Christin Ditchfield

Book Bio from Amazon: Do you read The Chronicles of Narnia sensing that the stories are full of biblical parallels, even if you’re not always sure what they are or where to find them? This user-friendly companion to The Chronicles of Narnia is written for C. S. Lewis readers like you who want to discover the books’ biblical and Christian roots. Read it, and you’ll find that this chapter-by-chapter, book-by-book examination of The Chronicles will widen your spiritual vision.

My Review: This was a good tool to have as we read through The Chronicles of Narnia outloud as a family. While I do not agree with all the intrepretations and correlations the author made, it served as a guide for conversation and further discussion of biblical principles.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The Last Battle

by: 

C. S. Lewis

Book Bio from Amazon: During the last days of Narnia, the land faces its fiercest challenge—not an invader from without but an enemy from within. Lies and treachery have taken root, and only the king and a small band of loyal followers can prevent the destruction of all they hold dear in this, the magnificent ending to The Chronicles of Narnia.


My Review: We greatly enjoyed reading through this series as a family and were sad to see our adventures in Narnia come to an end. A must-read series for families!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch

by: 

Jean Lee Latham

Book Bio from Goodreads: Readers today are still fascinated by “Nat,” an eighteenth-century nautical wonder and mathematical wizard. Nathaniel Bowditch grew up in a sailor’s world—Salem in the early days, when tall-masted ships from foreign ports crowded the wharves. But Nat didn’t promise to have the makings of a sailor; he was too physically small. Nat may have been slight of build, but no one guessed that he had the persistence and determination to master sea navigation in the days when men sailed only by “log, lead, and lookout.” Nat’s long hours of study and observation, collected in his famous work, The American Practical Navigator (also known as the “Sailors’ Bible”), stunned the sailing community and made him a New England hero.

My Review: 5 STARS!!! This is one of my top-favorite books that we’ve read together as a family. You will fall in love with the story and characters. While there is an element of hearbreak woven throughout the story, Nat rises above the challenges life brings and carries on! While this book was loved by our entire family, my husband and son really enjoyed the nautitical themes. You will also find wonderful moral lessons that lead to further family conversations.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The Mysterious Benedict Society

by: 

Trenton Lee Stewart

Book Bio from Amazon: “Are you a gifted child looking for special opportunities?” Dozens of children respond to this peculiar newspaper ad and are then put through a series of mind-bending tests, which readers take along with them. Only four children—two boys and two girls—succeed. Their challenge: to go on a secret mission that only the most intelligent and inventive children could complete. To accomplish it, they will have to go undercover at the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened, where the only rule is that there are no rules. But what they’ll find in the hidden underground tunnels of the school is more than your average school supplies. So, if you’re gifted, creative, or happen to know Morse Code, they could probably use your help.

My Review: Utterly quirky and enchanting! Sometimes you need a light and fun read and that is what this book was for me. It is written for a younger audience, but I will make note that there are some scary elements such as kidnapping and mind control. Overall, it was an engaging story that kept me on the edge of my seat!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Marmee

by: 

Sarah Miller

Book Bio from Amazon: In 1861, war is raging in the South, but in Concord, Massachusetts, Margaret March has her own battles to fight. With her husband serving as an army chaplain, the comfort and security of Margaret’s four daughters— Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—now rest on her shoulders alone. Money is tight and every month, her husband sends less and less of his salary with no explanation. Worst of all, Margaret harbors the secret that these financial hardships are largely her fault, thanks to a disastrous mistake made over a decade ago which wiped out her family’s fortune and snatched away her daughters’ chances for the education they deserve. 
Yet even with all that weighs upon her, Margaret longs to do more—for the war effort, for the poor, for the cause of abolition, and most of all, for her daughters. Living by her watchwords, “Hope and keep busy,” she fills her days with humdrum charity work to keep her worries at bay. All of that is interrupted when Margaret receives a telegram from the War Department, summoning her to her husband’s bedside in Washington, D.C. While she is away, her daughter Beth falls dangerously ill, forcing Margaret to confront the possibility that the price of her own generosity toward others may be her daughter’s life.
A stunning portrait of the paragon of virtue known as Marmee, a wife left behind, a mother pushed to the brink, a woman with secrets.

My Review: I wasn’t a huge fan of this book. While it did give some beautiful insight into the relationship between Marmee and Laurie and Marmee and Aunt March, other aspects really detracted from the novel. Marmee’s character reflected tenants of modern feminism. Some of that was true to it’s time, like women desiring the same educational rights as men, but I feel like the author took it too far in Marmee’s resentment and bitterness towards being treated different because she was a woman. It was also wishy-washy on the aspect of fatih, which I felt did a disservice to the strong undercurrents of faith in the original Little Women. It also painted Mr. March in a negative light- always taking care of the poor to the neglect of his family. Not really a book I’d recommend which is disappointing. The Marmee in Little Women might be my favorite literary character!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Parenting

by: 

Paul David Tripp

Book Bio from Amazon: Sometimes parents wish there was a guaranteed formula for raising good kids―a certain list of rules to follow to ensure they’d have obedient children. But if moms and dads view their role through the lens of God’s grace, they will see that the gospel must first shape how they parent before they can effectively shape their children.
In the bestselling book Parenting, Paul David Tripp unfolds a more biblical perspective on parenting than merely adhering to a list of rules. He lays out 14 gospel-centered principles that will radically change the way parents think about what it means to raise up a child, informing everything they do as a parent. This edition includes a section of engaging study questions for every chapter, helping individuals and groups reflect on each topic in greater depth. 

My Review: One of the top best parenting books I’ve read- and I’ve read many! This is one I could read again and again. I read it a year or two ago, but Simeon and I read through it together this time. It provided much food for thoughts as we seek to raise our children in accordance with God’s Word. A must-read for every parent!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Island of the Blue Dolphins

by: 

Scott O’Dell

Book Bio from Amazon: Scott O’Dell’s Newbery Medal-winning classic is a gripping tale of survival, strength, and courage. Based on the true story of a Nicoleo Indian girl living alone on an island off the coast of California, Island of the Blue Dolphins has captivated readers for generations.On San Nicolas Island, dolphins flash in the surrounding blue waters, sea otter play in the vast kelp beds, and sea elephants loll on the stony beaches. Here, in the early 1800s, a girl named Karana spent eighteen years alone.Karana had to contend with the ferocious pack of wild dogs that killed her younger brother, constantly guard against Aleutian sea otter hunters, and maintain a precarious food supply. Her courage, self-reliance, and grit has inspired millions of readers in this breathtaking adventure.As Smithsonian magazine put it: “For kids all over the country, reading the book in language arts classes, Karana is a powerful symbol of their growing independence. Through her, they can imagine themselves making their way in the world alone–and thriving.”

My Review: A story of overcoming danger, isolation, the elements, and more. My children were fascinated by the main characters resilience and ingenuity to survive alone on an island. I wish we would have known before reading the book that it was based on a true story. That would have made it even more incredible!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The Princess and The Goblin

by: 

George MacDonald

Book Bio from Amazon: Princess Irene lives in a castle in a wild and lonely mountainous region. One day she discovers a steep and winding stairway leading to a bewildering labyrinth of unused passages with closed doors – and a further stairway. What lies at the top? Can the ring the princess is given protect her against the lurking menace of the boglins from under the mountain?

My Review: I know that in the read-aloud community, this book is a golden child. But we didn’t love it. It was ok, and some elements (like the goblin queen!) were quite funny. Overall, it didn’t hold our attention. I also felt like some elements such as the mysterious grandmother were not resolved well. Who was she exactly? And why did she have magical powers??

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Taking Charge of Your Fertility

by: 

Toni Weschler

Book Bio from Amazon: Since the publication of Taking Charge of your Fertility two decades ago, Toni Weschler has taught a whole new generation of women how to become pregnant, avoid pregnancy naturally and gain better control of their gynecological and sexual health by taking just a couple minutes a day using the proven Fertility Awareness Method.
Clear and comprehensive, yet warm and approachable, Taking Charge of Your Fertility is one of the most universally lauded health books on the market today. It is an essential reference for every woman of reproductive age.

My Review: I do not agree with everything the author wrote in this book, but overall, it is an very well done resources on reading and charting your fertility signs. I love that the author took very scientific facts and discussed them in an easy-to-understand way! This is a LARGE book, but I found it to be a very easy read!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The Christmas Doll

by: 

Elvira Woodruff

Book Bio from Amazon: Lucy and Glory are orphaned sisters with no real place to call home. Only their memories of a beautiful doll named Morning Glory brighten their bleak lives. When a deadly fever sweeps through the workhouse where the girls live, Lucy and Glory flee to the mean streets of London.
One day the girls find an old battered doll that Glory senses is their beloved Morning Glory. But Morning Glory is no ordinary doll–the girls learn that she has magical powers that will change their lives in amazing ways.. With the help of the doll, the sisters discover the true meaning of the Christmas spirit.

My Review: Such a beautiful Christmas story! It does not shy away from the tragedies and terrors orphans faced on the streets of England, but the redemptive end shines the brighter for it. Walk with Lucy and Glory through the hard times, and you will be rewarded with a most enchanting ending!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Little Christmas Carol

by: 

Joe Sutphin

Book Bio from Amazon: In 1843, Charles Dickens penned a story—a classic Christmas tale full of ghosts and the endearing humbug Ebenezer Scrooge. That story—which has captivated readers for over 150 years—is now accompanied by the delightful illustrations of Joe Sutphin. With charming woodland characters and settings that families will adore, readers will be transformed by Little Christmas Carol.  A tale of greed, regret, loneliness, reflection, compassion, hope, and a joyfully changed life, this beautifully illustrated edition will enliven the timeless classic for readers young and old.
For the perfect family read-aloud, make Little Christmas Carol a part of your family’s Christmas tradition. This new edition makes a wonderful gift.
It is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child himself. —Charles Dickens

My Review: Beautifully redone by Joe Sutphin, master behind Little Pilgrim’s Progress. This quickly became part of our Christmas celebrations. Each evening leading up to Christmas, we turned on the tree lights and piled on the couch to hear Daddy read this aloud to us. It is one I see us revisiting in Christmases to come! The illustrations are beautifully done, and the story holds very true to Dickens classic.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Gentle and Lowly

by: 

Dane Ortlund

Book Bio from Amazon: Christians know what Jesus Christ has done—but who is he? What is his deepest heart for his people, weary and faltering on their journey toward heaven? Jesus said he is “gentle and lowly in heart.” This book reflects on these words, opening up a neglected yet central truth about who he is for sinners and sufferers today.

My Review: This is my second time reading through this book, and what depth! I come away from each chapter being amazed at God’s love for me, and falling more in love with Him because of it! A must-read! It will encourage your walk with the Lord.

---

---

Availability

---

---

Ben Carson: A Chance at Life

by: 

Geoff & Janet Benge

Book Bio from Amazon: As a child growing up in Detroit, Ben Carson had a dream of becoming a physician, a dream that rose out of struggles with poverty, racism, and poor grades. As Ben persevered and strove for academic excellence, his life became one of compassion and service.Today, Benjamin Carson, MD, is known as the American neurosurgeon with gifted hands. The first surgeon to successfully separate twins joined at the head, he directed pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital for over a quarter of a century. His life continues to be a model of what it means to care deeply, serve brilliantly, and lead courageously (1951-).

My Review: Ben Carson! What a man! His “rags to riches” story has been spurring people towards greatness for decades. Our entire family was captivated by his life’s story. My favorite part about the book is the emphasis he put on linking his success and overcoming poverty to turning off the TV and reading books! His love and respect for the Lord in his life also shone through. It was a good opportunity for us to introduce our children to a great man who was also a great Christian!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

There are many places where you can purchase or borrow books! Some of my favorites for getting books on a budget are thrift stores, Hoopla, Libby, or your local library. If you watch for sales, you can often find deals on Amazon Audible or on physical books on Amazon. I use this option often when I know it’s a book that I want to add to our home library.

Should you choose to purchase these books through the Amazon links I have provided, thank you! They are affiliate links which gives a little back to our family at no extra cost to you!

These are a few things that have helped me when I find myself in a reading slump:

Choose a Captivating Book

If you are trying to get back into the habit of reading, you don’t want to pick up War and Peace by Tolstoy. Leave that one for another day. Choose something that will catch your interest and reignite that passion for a good story.

My usual genre of choice would be non-fiction. But at times when I’m trying to get back into the habit of reading, historical fiction is often my go-to. When I am reminded of the thrill that comes from a book that you can’t put down, I am thrust back into making room in my life for reading.

Put It Down If It’s Not Something You Love

If you’ve been trying for months to finish a book before you move on, but that is what’s caused you to “fall out of love” with reading, put it down. You can always return to it later. Or you have my permission to never revisit it again!

As a girl who believes in finishing what I start, that was a hard lesson to let myself accept. But several of my reading slumps were caused by me trying to trudge through a book that I did not care about. When I allowed myself the freedom to move on, the love for books returned.

Make Time for Reading

Sometimes the slump comes because time for reading gets crowded out of our busy schedules. That happens, and it’s ok! Different seasons call for different things. God did design our bodies and minds to need rest though. Even in busy seasons, most of us find some time to unwind. It is tempting to give that time to scrolling or watching TV. Before you know it, and hour is gone, and you walk away without feeling relaxed. I know I am guilty of this from time to time. Reading does for my body and mind what the glow of a screen will never accomplish.

I am a busy wife, mama, and so much more. I have learned throughout the past decade of marriage and family life, that I need to have times of rejuvenation for myself. Carving out even a few moments in the day to read fills me up more than most other hobbies.

Read Shorter Books

We all like the feeling of accomplishment. There is joy in reading the final page of a book, closing its cover, and saying goodbye (or until next time!) When you are in a reading slump, maybe you just need to choose a shorter, more digestible book to give yourself that feeling. Then when you find yourself back in the habit, you can tackle the longer reads.

This happened to me once when I was working through a VERY long book with lots of information. I was finding myself reading less and less because I felt that I would never finish the book. I decided to commit to reading one portion of that book each day, and then moving onto a shorter book. That helped me so much! Seeing progress made on my reading goal and ticking books off my to-read list gave me the desire to keep reading as a habit. Slowly but surely, I worked through the long book and finished it! I’m glad I didn’t wait until I had to start reading something else!

Commit to a Chapter A Day

Often, we need to set a goal to give ourselves the motivation to act on something we desire for ourselves. Committing to read one chapter each day can help kick-start the habit. This doesn’t take a large amount of time and energy. You can read one chapter in 10 minutes or less! It does set you on a path back to where you desire to be. One day, your one chapter might become two. A week later, you might find yourself looking forward to as many chapters as you can fit in!

This is a helpful tip for me, especially when I am working through a book that isn’t quite as captivating as others. I might have a fun fiction read that I’m loving, but I make myself read one chapter from the book that isn’t as interesting first.

Organize Your Bookshelf

Something as simple as organizing your bookshelf can be a reminder of all the wonderful books you have that you have yet to read!

I recently did this, and now I have a stack of books sitting on my office desk that I can’t wait to read! I have determined to wrap up a few others before I plunge into this new stack, but I can hardly wait! That keeps me focused on working through my current reads.

Utilize Audiobooks

Audiobooks can be a wonderful option for those who desire to read yet find themselves in a busy season. Audiobooks are still books!

I tend to be more old-school. I would much prefer a printed book to an audiobook, or even to an e-Book. But there have been times when audiobooks better fit the demands I had in that season of life. Reading books that way still allowed me to keep up with my reading goals and enjoy good books.

If you’ve known me for long, you’ll know how passionate I am about books and reading! But even I have times where reading is not something I want to do. These tips have been helpful to get me back on track! I hope they will be for you.

Do you have any advice to add? What helps you when you are in a reading slump? Email me at nohighercallingpodcast@gmail.com and let me know! I might add your tip to the list!

But there will also be days of down time spent at home. As a mama to five littles ages eight and under, I have come to learn that if we want our home to run smoothly, we have to have rhythms in place. That doesn’t mean that we don’t break away and live on a whim from time to time, especially during the summer. It just means that as a general rule, we have a certain order to our days.

This summer, I have made simple charts for my oldest two children for the days we spend at home. The tasks on this list only take 1 1/2 hours of time. This is a perfect fit for us. It gives plenty of freedom to their day allowing them to enjoy the free play and sunshine of summer. But for those long days spent a home, it gives direction to a portion of our day. It also is a designated time that I set aside from my tasks to focus in on the children and spend quality time with them.

What is Our Summer Rhythm?

-Practice Piano (30 minutes)

-Read (30 minutes)

-Math Review (5-10 minutes)

We rotate through these Math Flashcards from Think Tank Scholar.

-Activity Time (25 minutes)

See below.

-“How Can I help you, Mama?”

The kids are to ask me this question and are challenged to have a heart ready to serve. I give them one task and try to keep it simple and quick like putting their dirty laundry in the washing machine or wiping the kitchen table. It is an opportunity for me to train them to serve with a joyful heart as well as to be one who is quick to ask others how they can be a help.

Activity Time

Each of these activites are written on a popsicle stick that I keep in a mason jar. The kids alternate turns choosing from the jar. Whatever activity is chosen is the one we do together for 25 minutes. These are fun things that each child looks forward to doing together! I enjoy the quality time I get to spend doing the activity alongside them.

Flag Memory Game

Match-a-Track

Bananagrams

Letter Writing

Space Cards

Bug Flashcards

Bird Drawing

Bingo

Puzzle

Magnatiles

Piano Noterush App

Brain Quest Cards

Paint

Buildzi

Playdoh

Blokus

Chalk

Nature Walk

Cleaning

Baking

Board Game (some of our favorites: Ticket to Ride Jr., Outfoxed, Guess Who, The Sneaky Snacky Squirrel, Scrabble Jr., Stomp the Plank, and Guesstures)

How do you like to spend your summers? Let me know in the comments!

Amazon links are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase anything, thank you for supporting NHC.

Kicking off Christmas

December 1st kicks of the Christmas season for our family! We celebrate by suprising the kids with a new Christmas book at breakfast. We also pull out the books they have recevied in previous years to enjoy throughout the season.

Little Christmas Carol

I am so excited about this year’s book! Joe Sutphin is the man who did Little Pilgrim’s Progress which might be our top favorite read-aloud to date! He beautifully retells stories for children, and his illustrations are lovely!

This book will make the perfect addition to our collection!

Christmas Eve Box

A new Christmas Eve tradition we are starting is to have a gift box for the whole family to open together that evening. It will have a new board game, matching Christmas pajamas, and some of our favorite snacks. Everything we need for a fun family night!

This Year’s Family Game: Deduckto

(About the game: A simple deduction style game where you’ll have to use clues to deduce which character you are and identifying the animal, disguise and location.)

Eden

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glasser

Story Cubes

Paint by Sticker: Plants and Flowers

Sew Your Own Donut Animals

The Chronicles of Narnia Collector’s Edition (Radio Theatre)

Step-by-Step Drawing People

Knox

Magnatiles Construction Set

Lego Fire Rescue Boat

Paint by Sticker: Outer Space

St. George and the Dragon by Margaret Hodges

The Blue Hill Meadows by Cynthia Rylant

Battleship

Ivy

Kitchen (not the exact one we bought on Amazon Australia, but similar)

Purse

A Little House Picture Treasury

Earrings

Scissor Skills

Sticker Dolly Dressing: Around the World

Willow

Magnetic Icecream Maze

Wooden Tea Set (not the exact one we bought on Amazon Australia, but similar)

Dot Markers

A Little More Beautiful by Sarah Mackenzie

Classic Bedtime Stories by Scott Gustafson

Hexagon Puzzle

Flora

Rainbow Ribbon Kite

Bentgo Box

Magnatiles Farm Set

Floral Headbands

Sand Bucket Toy Set

Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

Brettnay’s Wishlist

Dazzle Dry Starter Mini

Cake Stand

Gospel Mom by Emily Jensen and Laura Wifler

Lift Your Eyes by Whitney Newby

Sweeter Than Honey Bible Study by Gretchen Saffles

Hiking Boots

Simeon’s Wishlist

The Old Men: Conversations that Help Boys Become Men by T. L. Jones

Railroad Ink Board Game

Hiking Backpack

Hunting Knife

Rechargeable Flashlight

Firestarter

*Amazon links are afflilate links. As an Amazon influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you!!

As a wife, mama, and homemaker, I want to steward our health well. We live in world where that is difficult to accomplish! Everyone seems to have the “right” answer, yet answers conflict. We have lost trust in the healthcare system. Big pharma is consumed with making more money instead of helping people be healthy. Doctors prescribe pills as a first option instead of suggesting more nourishing diets, exercise, and sunlight.

I’m not completely against conventional medicine. It has its place in the grand scheme, as well as in my own life and health. But I have questioned if it should always be my first option. This has led me to MUCH research, learning, and praying! It is a journey that I feel as though I have just begun. Motherhood has been my catalyst. I want to make the best decisions for my children’s health. I want to be a healthy mama for them! This is a truth I hear echoed by many other mamas.

The biggest question we then ask is “Where to start?” As mentioned before, I feel as though I have only explored the tip of the iceberg of a more holistic approach to health, but these are some things that have been a huge blessing to our family as we have sought to fight sickness naturally.

General Health

-Eat Nutrient Dense Foods. I’ll admit, I’m not quite in the camp that is eating fermented foods, organs, and livers. (applause to those of you who do!) But I have made it a top priority to cook almost all that we eat from scratch using real food ingredients. Even simple switches make a difference- making all your bread from scratch, shredding your own cheese, eliminating processed foods from your diet, limiting or cutting out sugar. Make sure you are eating plenty of protein and in-season fruits and veggies. I’m convinced that so many of our health issues in the western world are linked to the foods we eat! Read labels. Be able to recognize harmful ingredients and avoid them. Real food tastes so much better anyway! It’s worth the extra effort!

–Move Your Body. I am a busy mama of 5 with very little spare time, but I’ve found that moving my body every day is so helpful for my physical and mental health! Ideally, I love to get outside and take a walk. That doesn’t always happen! My daily goal is to get in a minimum of 10k steps and do some stretches throughout the day. This helps relieve a lot of tension that builds up through a day of homemaking and tending to little ones. I also enjoy doing the free workouts or stretch routines from Nourish Move Love.

-Water. I love my Owala water bottle! It keeps liquids cold for a long time and holds 32oz. I find I drink much more water since having this bottle and keeping it near me throughout the day. We have a Berkey water filter which is amazing at getting all the bad things out, but it also filters out good minerals. I use Trace mineral drops to add the good minerals back into my water.

-Circadian Rhythm. My friend, Sarah Boots from Faithful and Flourishing has been raving about the health results she’s had from implementing circadian rhythm into her life. It’s so amazing, I had her join me on the podcast to share her story. You can also get her guide, A Christian Woman’s Guide to Health and Hormones . Ladies, it’s gold! Every woman needs to read it!

–Magnesium. I apply this Good Night Lotion from Earthly every night before bed to aid with sleep. Two years ago, I did a htma lab to access my mineral levels, and I found that while most of my minerals were low, magnesium was right where it needed to be! I attribute that to this cream!

General Medicine Cabinet Essentials

-Rice Bag. Great for soothing sore muscles, cramps, or joint pain. I use this instead of a heating pad. Someone made me one, and they are very easy to make! Or you can find them other places like Etsy.

-Otoscope. I have a child who suffered from many ear infections as a toddler. After a dozen or more doctor visits, I decided to get an otoscope and learn to recognize an ear infection. This helped know how to treat him and when to take him to the doctor!

-Thermometer. I don’t know why it took me so long to get a no touch thermometer, but it is game changer! Gone are the days of trying to get sick, wiggly kids to hold a thermometer under their tongue! This is instant and accurate.

Immune Boosters

–Elderberry Syrup. Packed with antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamins, this is fantastic for immune support. There are many different options available, but you can get this elderberry kit from Purely Parsons.

-Propolis. At the slightest onset of a sore throat, we start using this throat spray to boost immunity.

-Oral Care. Thieves mouthwash, Thieves toothpaste, and a tongue scraper help keep bacteria at bay in the mouth!

Medicines/Treatments

–Badger Headache Soother. A peppermint oil-based salve to help conquer headaches.

–Earthley Tinctures. I have used many of the different tinctures from Earlthy, and they are all so good! Made with pure ingredients, you can feel safe using these with your family. They are clearly labeled with safety info and dosages for babies, children, and nursing mothers.

-Mullein Garlic Oil. Great for treating ear infections.

-Charcoal Mask. I use this charcoal mask from Mary Kay on my face, but a missionary friend to Africa recently told me that it works great at drawing out toxins from bug bites! She said to apply it to a mosquito bite, and the itching will stop and the bite with disappear in a few hours!

–Genexa Kid’s Pain & Fever. Tylenol has been completely removed from my medicine cabinet (lots of research available as to why, just do a Google search). I try to treat things with other natural sources, if possible, but if a child is miserable and nothing else is giving relief (especially when battling a fever), I use this to help them get through.

-Peppermint & Eucalyptus Oil. I enjoy diffusing oils for fragrance in my home, but I don’t often use them topically or internally. I have found that diffusing peppermint and eucalyptus oils in a room with someone who is having respiratory/cold symptoms has helped to clear them up! You can get oils from many places, but I use Young Living.

-Arnica Gel. Good for bruising, pain, and soreness.

-Urine test strips. I struggle with UTI’s, so it has been helpful for me to learn how to test and understand the results from an at home urine test.

-Herbal teas. This is an area I’m new to, so I won’t give many specifics. We do use herbal teas often when cold season hits. Sipping on hot tea with fresh lemon juice and honey is very soothing to a sore throat. I want to learn more about how other herbal teas can benefit different illness and symptoms!

More Resources to further your Research

This is an area that I am currently learning more about and growing in! As I learn and as the budget gives wiggle room, I pick up a thing or two to add to my natural medicine cabinet. What are your essentials? I’d love to hear in the comments!

These are some sources that have helped me learn more about natural health and living.

Be Your Own Doctor by Rachel Weaver

Be Your Child’s Pediatrician by Rachel Weaver

Our Natural Medicine Cabinet by Brighter Day Press

Purely Parsons Shop

Clean Living Mama with Rebecca Grant

*Amazon links are affiliate links. As an Amazon influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you!!

Bucket List Family Travel

by: 

Jessica Gee

Be warned! This book will give you the travel bug! Most of the places and experiences mentioned will never be in our budget, but it’s free to dream! It felt like we had a tour of the world just flipping through the many gorgeous photos throughout this book. I enjoyed this read so much!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Simulated

by: 

Nova McBee

This is the second book in the series. I really enoyed the first book (mentioned in last quarter’s blog post), but I didn’t enjoy this one nearly as much. It felt very “young adult” in it’s themes. There was a lot of boy drama, etc. It also lacked the intrigue element that the first book had.

*Discalimer: I wouldn’t recommed this book because of the strong young adult drama elements throughout.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The Silver Chair

by: 

C. S. Lewis

Our family has been working through the Narnia series during our read-aloud time. While Eustace and Jill aren’t our favorite human characters, we loved Puddleglum!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Love Without Borders

by: 

Angela Braniff

I started out really enjoying the author’s adoption stories, but I wound up not like this book much. Several reasons- 1. I was so disappointed in the author’s (a professing Christian) use of curse words. 2. I disagree on the author’s moral stance regarding IVF. 3. As the book went along, it seemed as though the family was very wife-led. She says that God would speak to her, she would inform her husband, and then she’d move forward on a decision and kind of pull him along behind. While I feel that a wife definitely has a say in decisions, and in many cases a husband leaves certain decisions soley to the wife, there were major, life-altering decisions that she was leading in.

*Disclaimer: I wouldn’t recommend reading this book for the above-mentioned reasons.

---

---

Availability

---

---

Little Women

by: 

Louisa May Alcott

There are no words! Why did it take me 32 years to read this classic? I fell in love with this story, and it might be my favorite book ever! My oldest daughter and I listsened to it on audio. We laughed with the March girls, and we cried with them. We watched as they transformed from little girls to little women. We learned from the struggles and growing pains that came along with that transition. These provided beautiful opportunities for me to speak into the heart of my little woman. I plan to read this with all my girls again and again!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Family Driven Faith

by: 

Voddie Baucham

Simeon and I listened to this book on Audible a few years back and gleaned so much from it. I decided to buy a hard copy so I could read it again and highlight and take notes. Baucham provides biblical insight into the crisis of coming generations leaving the faith and how we, as parents, can stand in the gap and fight for the souls of our children.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Mere Motherhood

by: 

Cindy Rollins

There were parts of this book that I really enjoyed. I loved the author’s reflections and wisdom regarding “morning time.” This was a time when she would gather all her children, and they would begin their school day with the Bible, hymns, and read-alouds. Overall though, it was an average book.

Disclaimer: I was disappointed with the author’s use of a curse word or two.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Twelve Extraordinary Women

by: 

John MacArthur

I have studied women of the Bible for over a decade, and yet God always has more to learn from these women’s example. Some teach us through their faith, others teach us from their mistakes. Again and again we see God’s redemptive power through the lives or ordinary women who He used to do extraordinary things!

*Disclaimer: I DO NOT agree with John MacArthur’s beliefs regarding calvinism and reformed theology.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

*Amazon links are afflilate links. As an Amazon influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you!!

I am still a young homeschooling mama with only a few years of experience under my belt, but I have grown much in my thinking on education through this time. Much of that growth is directly connect to the voices I have allowed to influence me. Below, you will find some of those voices. This is not even close to a comprehensive list of great books on the topic of homeschooling, but these are some that have shaped my thoughts and had a huge impact on our home education.

Whether you are considering home education or you are a verteran homeschool mama, I know these books will be an encouragement to you on your homeschooling journey!

Awaking Wonder

by: 

Sally Clarkson

Sally, what is your secret?
For years, parents worldwide have asked beloved author Sally Clarkson how she and her husband have ignited a love for learning and a deep faith in their children. They want to know how the Clarksons launched their children to live such vibrant, flourishing lives as adults.

Awaking Wonder is Sally’s answer to those questions. This book is thirty-six years in the making and provides a deep dive into Sally’s most profound legacy: nurturing and guiding her four children into a wonder-filled life.

If you are idealistic and hopeful about the process of raising your children to be healthy and vibrant, you will find encouragement through the Clarksons’ story. If you are exhausted, confused, ill equipped, or unsupported in your journey as a parent, you will find relief through the countless ideas in this book.

Awaking Wonder will inspire you, delight you, provide laughter, and bring tears through the heartfelt stories of four lively children and the wondrous life they grew up in together.

Journey with Sally toward

· cultivating wonder all around you, alongside your children
· understanding how to open your children’s hearts and minds to the grand design, beauty, and goodness scattered throughout the universe
· laying a foundation for spiritual formation and a robust faith in God
· nurturing your children to live into their capacity in intellect, faith, and relationships

If you long for a holistic, spiritually foundational approach to parenting and education, this is the book you’ve been waiting for.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Educating the WholeHearted Child

by: 

Clay & Sally Clarkson

Since 1994, Educating the WholeHearted Child has provided a trusted roadmap for families on the homeschooling journey. This updated fourth edition will show you how to faithfully and confidently nurture, disciple, and educate your wholehearted child at home. Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How to cultivate a vital Christian home where learning can be as natural as playing
• How to see and plan every day through the lens of the WholeHearted Learning model
• How to teach confidently with proven, parent-friendly methods to achieve your goals
• How to maintain a balanced life and home through family, structure, order, and support
• How to understand your child’s unique learning style to help them grow and thrive

Whether you’re just getting started, or you’re a seasoned veteran, you’ll find in this trusted guide a comprehensive model not just for Christian home education, but also for the Christian home. Educating the WholeHearted Child is the whole picture—you, your children, your home, and God.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The Read-Aloud Family

by: 

Sarah MacKenzie

The stories we read–and the conversations we have about them–help shape family traditions, create lifelong memories, and become part of our legacy. Many parents can’t get their children to become book-lovers. Other parents lose touch with what their child is reading.
Reading aloud with your children not only has the power to change a family–it can help your children grow into thoughtful, intelligent, empathetic adults.
We all know that connecting deeply with our families can be difficult in our busy, technology-driven society. Reading aloud is one of the best ways to be fully present with our children, even after they can read themselves, but it isn’t always easy to do. In this book, Sarah Mackenzie–author and host of the Read-Aloud Revival podcast–will teach you how to:
Prepare your kids for academic success through reading to them
Develop empathy and compassion in your kids through books
Find time to read aloud in the midst of school, sports, and dinner dishes
Choose books across a variety of sibling interests and ages
Make reading aloud the best part of your family’s day

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Teaching From Rest

by: 

Sarah MacKenzie

Those who have made the decision to homeschool their children have done so out of great love for them and a desire to provide them an excellent education in the context of a warm, enriching home. Yet so many parents (mainly mothers) who have taken up this challenge find the enterprise often full of stress, worry, and anxiety. In this practical, faith-based, and inspirational book, Sarah Mackenzie addresses these questions directly, appealing to her own study of restful learning and her struggle to bring restful learning to her (six) children.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

For the Children’s Sake

by: 

Susan Shaeffer Macaulay

Every parent and teacher wants to give his or her children the best education possible. They hope that the teaching they provide is a joyful adventure, a celebration of life, and preparation for living. But sadly, most education today falls short of this goal.
For the Children’s Sake imagines what education can be based on a Christian understanding of the meaning of life and what it means to be human—a child, a parent, a teacher. The central ideas have been proven over many years and in almost every kind of educational situation, including ideas that author Susan Schaeffer Macaulay and her husband, Ranald, have implemented in their own family and school experience. Includes a foreword by daughter and educator Fiona Fletcher.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Call of the Wild & Free

by: 

Ainsley Arment

Inspired by the spirit of Henry David Thoreau—”All good things are wild and free”—mother of five Ainsley Arment founded Wild + Free. This growing online community of mothers and families want their children to receive a quality education at home by challenging their intellectual abilities and nurturing their sense of curiosity, joy, and awe—the essence of a positive childhood.
The homeschool approach of past generations is gone—including the stigma of socially awkward kids, conservative clothes, and a classroom setting replicated in the home. The Wild + Free movement is focused on a love of nature, reading great books, pursuing interests and hobbies, making the entire world a classroom, and prolonging the wonder of childhood, an appealing philosophy that is unpacked during this audiobook.
The Call of the Wild and Free offers advice, information, and positive encouragement for parents considering homeschooling, those currently in the trenches looking for inspiration, as well as parents, educators, and caregivers who want supplementary resources to enhance their kids’ traditional educations.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The 4 Hour School Day

by: 

Durenda Wilson

Giving your child a quality education experience for a life of happiness and purpose is possible – and it only takes four hours a day or less!
We want our kids to have the best education, but less-than-ideal school environments and concern about our kids’ specific needs have parents uncertain about traditional schooling. A trusted homeschool expert with 25 years of experience homeschooling her own eight children, Durenda Wilson offers a better way and promises that you already have what it takes to give your child a healthy, successful future.
In The Four-Hour School Day, she unpacks the lifelong advantages of home education, both for the health of your family and your child’s future. With inspiring stories about parents just like you, she demystifies homeschooling and addresses common fears like, what if I’m not qualified, how can I homeschool as a single parent, and what if I don’t have enough time? Packed with encouragement and practical advice, this resource equips you with all the information you need to create a sustainable homeschooling plan customized to your child’s needs.
Wilson will help you to:

Work with your child’s interests and passions for an enjoyable learning experience
Cultivate independent learning in your child so you have more time and your child develops more curiosity
Navigate the different schooling stages your child will go through
Find an engaged community so that you can start this adventure with all the support you need
Explore the rich and wonderful world of homeschooling because it’s not only more doable than you think, but far more beneficial than you can imagine.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Let Them Be Kids

by: 

Jessica Smartt

As parents, we want to safeguard our children from the pressures and influences of the world but also prepare them for age-appropriate realities. How do we find that balance? Jessica Smartt shares ways to be more aware, engaged, proactive, creative, and protective, but also adventurous with our kids.
Let Them Be Kids is Jessica’s offering of grace and confidence to moms, giving us practical ideas to meet the challenge. Her well-researched, tested methods, woven together with her personal stories and witty humor, deliver wisdom on tough topics, such as:

Balancing family time vs. outside activities,
The gift of being awkward and uncool,
Managing technology,
Protecting purity,
Showing grace when kids disobey,
And more.
Part story, part guidebook, every chapter includes doable strategies and encouragement for the journey, equipping moms with ways to provide a safe, healthy, Christ-centered upbringing for our children.
If you want to conquer fear and find the truth that transforms entire families, Let Them Be Kids shows us that it’s not only possible but essential to enjoy every special moment of building family values together. And it serves as a gentle reminder that, someday, we’ll be very glad that we did.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Until the Streetlights Come On

by: 

Ginny Yurich

The average American now spends just four to seven minutes outside each day, while we spend four to seven hours using devices with screens. Our physical, mental, emotional, and relational health has suffered–and so has that of our children.

But there is a solution: get outside!

A homeschooling mother of five and the founder of the global 1000 Hours Outside movement, Ginny Yurich explains how we got to this point–and how to get back to a healthier, more engaging relationship with the world outside. With a mom’s heart and an educator’s eye, Ginny shows you

· the importance of unstructured play for children
· what boredom actually contributes to our brains
· the value of sunlight and social play
· the role of play in lifelong learning
· how to make time outside more attractive than screen time to your child
· and much more

If you want your kids to grow up curious, resilient, and with a sense of adventure and community, it’s essential to make outside play a priority. This book shows you why and how.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Adventuring Together

by: 

Greta Eskridge

Parents today complain of fragmented relationships with their kids. What parents yearn for – and their kids too – is deep, heart-to-heart connections. But how can parents compete with all the other noise fighting for their kids’ attention?
The answer, says Greta Eskridge, is to break free from regular routines and familiar comforts of home to experience new places and adventures – even if those adventures go awry. From simply reading a book together to going on an overnight backpacking trip, activities together provide unique and crucial bonding opportunities. Adventuring Together highlights Greta’s stories of doing just that, including:
an array of ideas for outdoor and indoor ventures,
what to do when your finances are limited,
and how to adventure if your family can’t hit the hiking trail or spend the night at a campground.
Giving listeners the tools to make adventures happen, Adventuring Together is a step-by-step guide for parents – whether in the city or the country – to start building connections today that will last a lifetime.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

*Summaries taken from the back of the book cover. Amazon links are affiliate links.

*Review on the books below are coming soon!

Son of Hamas

by: 

Mosab Hassan Yousef

Simeon and I read this together as our book for the quarter. It was unlike most other books I read as it delved deep into the politics and terrorism of Hamas. It provides a broader understanding of the conflict in the Middle East.

*Spoiler: The author (son of the leader of Hamas) comes to know Christ. His salvation testimony seemed a bit more “osmosis” as he was gently introduced to Christianity. I do wish it had been more clear on his conversion.

This was definitely outside of my normal genre! If this kind of account intrigues you, you’ll enjoy this gripping account. If not, you might want to choose a different read.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

by: 

C. S. Lewis

We are continuing on in our family read-aloud through the Chronicles of Narnia. My 5 year old son really loved this book! Dragons, ships, mystery, and more keep the reader/listener enchanted as you follow the Dawn Treader to the end of the earth!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

When Your Child is 6 to 12

by: 

John M. Drescher

This is a fantastic read for any parent who has a child in this age range! It challenges you to make the most of these “middle years”. Your child is becoming more independent and developing more of their own uniqueness as they leave the preschool years behind. They are also free from the emotional and hormonal challenges that come with the teen years. Drescher encourages parents to take this opportunity to lean into their relationship with their child and establish a foundation that will serve you both well as you walk into puberty and the teenage years.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Really Very Crunch

by: 

Emily Morrow

A fun, delightful read! I enjoy following Emily Morrow on Instagram @reallyverycrunchy. She provides a wealth of information while staying lighthearted. This book is a great introduction to living a natural lifestyle and limiting toxic exposure.

While I really enjoyed the book, it wasn’t my first introduction to these concepts. I feel like this book was great for beginners as it covered areas like food, air, water, etc. But I hope Emily writes a companion book in the future delving deeper!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

How Can I Feel Productive as a Mom?

by: 

Esther Engelsma

This booklet was so good that I recorded an entire podcast episode sharing what I learned! You can listen to that here: Productivity and Motherhood

If you struggle with balancing all your responsibilities as a mama, this read is for you! You will be challenged to align your priorities with God’s and to pursue being a present mama over a perfect mama. This book was a timely help for me.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Be Your Child’s Pediatrician

by: 

Rachel Weaver

This is a valuable resource for every parent! It discusses MANY childhood illnesses and symptoms and gives natural, holistic treatment options (that you can safely do from home!). It is meant to be a companion to Be Your Own Doctor. I would recommend either getting both books, or getting Be Your Own Doctor first. Rachel Weaver references quite a few things in this book that she wrote about in her first book.

Covid shook many people’s confidence in our healthcare system. While I am thankful for modern medicine when it is needed, I think there are many times where it is more harmful than helpful. If I can educate myself and treat minor issues myself, I have found that is the best option for our family.

*She has a lengthy section discussing the vaccine debate. It is worth the read! She encourages parents to be informed and well-researched on this topic. When you look at the scientific data, it does raise alarm to question the status quo!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

A Lifelong Love

by: 

Gary Thomas

Gary Thomas is one of my favorite marriage authors! His content on marriage and his heart to see couples thrive in their love for each other and for the Lord is refreshing! This book challenges you to cultivate a love that will stand the test of time. Highly recommend!

*Discliamer: Gary Thomas states his personal and theological view on alchol in this book (it’s a side note that has nothing do to with the marriage content. I wish he would’ve left it out!) I want to state that I DO NOT agree with his conclusions! Long answer cut short, I believe that Christians should have nothing to do with alcohol consumption.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Mind the Gap

by: 

Terrie Chappell

Expectations. We all have them don’t we? And they are usually set pretty high. What happens when our expectations aren’t met? This booklet explores those questions and seeks to give biblical answers.

Terrie Chappell uses the story of Martha and Mary to teach us truth on expectations.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Heartfelt Hospitality

by: 

Terrie Chappell

This was a beautiful reflection on years of extending hospitality! Terrie Chappell shares lessons she has learned along the way as she has sought to obey God’s command to be “given to hospitality.” The second half of the book shares tried-and-true recipes from Terrie’s kitchen!

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

The Railway Children

by: 

E. Nesbit

“Don’t you think it’s rather nice to think that we’re in a book that God’s writing? If I were writing the book, I might make mistakes. But God knows how to make the story end just right- in the way that’s best for us.”

This is a delightful story of a family who has their world is turned upside down by injustice. Roberta, Peter, and Phyllis mysteriously lose their Daddy making them have to leave their comfortable English home and move to the countryside. Though this change comes as quite the shock, the children adapt quickly and make many new friends, one of which is a rail line and a steam engine. Many exciting adventures ensue as they fall in love with the railway.

*The picture shown is of the copy that we have. I can’t seem to find this version anymore, I the link below is for the same story, but with different cover design and illustrator.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Calcualted

by: 

Nova McBee

A captivating book about a girl who possess an incredible gift to calcuate numbers. This gift causes her to be ripped from her life in Seattle and thrust into the criminal underworld in Shanghai. As the plot unfolds, you’ll be swept up in myster. Follow Madame, King, Phoenix, Red, and more as character histories and purposes intertwine to reveal an evil plot to overthrow China’s economy.

*Disclalimer: There are a few uses of h***. Criminal themes run throughout the book such as kidnapping, human trafficking, smuggling, etc.

---

---

Availability

Find on Amazon

---

---

Homemade Hamburger Buns

Ingredients

1 Tbsp sugar
2 tsp salt
1 1/2 Tbsp powdered milk
360 g water
2 Tbsp butter
520 g flour
2 tsp yeast

Instructions

*THIS IS A BREAD MACHINE RECIPE

Dump all ingredients in order (top to bottom) in bread machine. You will select the basic dough setting. This should take 2-2 1/2 hours. Once dough is done, portion out into 8 sections and shaped into bun/ball shape. Put on baking sheet and allow to rise for 1 hour. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes. You can brush the tops with butter or egg wash and add sesame seeds before baking if desired.

*The bread machine I have was purchased in Australia, but this one is very simliar for my American Friends, Bread Machine


*Amazon link is an afflilate link. As an Amazon influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you!!